Making "Dollars and Sense"!

With rising unemployment rates, dropping rates of stocks, and gas prices going nowhere soon but up (NC has the highest gas prices in the 48 states--I'm not including Alaska & Hawaii) we've all been feeling the need to make our dollars stretch further. I'm going to do a little series and hope to share some ideas for doing things that make "dollars and sense"!!

• Decorating on a Budget


• Ways to Save $ Around the House


• Grocery Shopping -- Getting the Most for Your $


• Spending Less for the Holidays


• Needs Vs. Wants


• We're All In This Together -- Family Goals

These are just a few of the topics I'll be covering, and I really hope that this will be a "discussion" where you, dear reader, feel free to join everyone in sharing your ideas on the topic in the comment section!!! The more ideas that we have and share, the better all of us can be in saving $$!

I really think that the foundation for all of the rest of our series should be an honest look at our current financial situation. There are many great books and worksheets out there that can walk you through the financial steps, and I think that they're great! (If anyone wants some recommendations, I'd be happy to do a list of some to read)

However, they all start with sitting down and making a list of how much $ you bring home every month and how much $ you spend every month. Include all bills, fun expenditures like movie rentals, eating out, kids' allowances, babysitters, gas, lunches or coffees during work hours, clothing, etc, and make sure you really, honestly list everything! This won't work otherwise!! A great way to do this is for one month track everything by entering your reciepts in a notebook at the end of each day...this will help you really see where your money goes!

Now, the goal in all of this is that hopefully we are bringing home more $ than we are spending. Unfortunately, due to job loss, tough times, or just poor spending habits that isn't always the case. That's when the budget needs some adjusting. Here is where the next part comes into play: Needs vs. Wants!

Tomorrow I'll continue with Needs vs. Wants! Take some time today to make a list of where your money really goes each month. If this seems overwhelming, at least get the basics down. You may want to do a comprehensive list later on, though. Get thinking about your current spending habits. Take a deep breath in, say a prayer, and let it out! Because this is the beginning of a new way of thinking...one that will benefit your family and get you breathing easier!!! :)

Are you ready?!! Let's go!!!