Yesterday we looked at a house & then made an offer, then our best offer!
We are putting it on paper tomorrow, Sunday, with a couple of hundred bucks.
The house is the perfect size & is older, 80's, so we don't have to treat it precious.
It has an ensuite, large living area, and an office (4th bedroom) for Todd. Perfect.
Best of all it is on more land with a lemon tree!
I didn't sleep well in anticipation...of them accepting our offer.
Who'd of thought I would be excited about an older house but I am.
I do like my sleep so, roll on Sunday.
Purchasing this house would see our mortgage drop by 70K and leave us in the quiet we are accustomed to with loads of space for our hobbies & boys to play and grow.
I"d imagine that initally out mortgage repayments will not change, we have an annual review & it would change then. I believe that to be not that long after settlement anyway, thinking about it.
The kitchen is not pretty, or large. We'd need to replace the oven & cooktop, needs that here too!
So long as it works we can do that at our leisure!
The water tank is huge & DH is pretty happy with the shed arrangement.
We would buy a ride on. We would do that once the contract was unconditional, well, that's what I think.
I am enthused to have a garage sale & sell a few items on ebay.
It is an energy boost to me to have something solid to work towards.
I also think I will direct Christmas funds to the new house.
I was thinking of painting, opeing up a rear exit, and which room the boys would have while my body was trying to sleep last night. I had things to plan and imagine.
Happy Saving!
Friday, December 2, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
new Day!
Well we went & looked at the 2 ugliest houses I can recall seeing. They shall be the bench mark of things to avoid in a house! I think we have decided to rent for the time being.
Today a friend was here & left with 2 pot plants. That is 2 less things we have to move! I am keen to see how we can do this as smoothly as possible as I got myself quite stressed last time.
We have been paid a little this month with more to come, hooray!
happy Saving!
Today a friend was here & left with 2 pot plants. That is 2 less things we have to move! I am keen to see how we can do this as smoothly as possible as I got myself quite stressed last time.
We have been paid a little this month with more to come, hooray!
happy Saving!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Today the house sale is unconditional!
That is it! Sold, done and waiting to move out & onto our next adventure.
This evening we are meeting with somone about an idea, which sounds promising & 'll detail more if it pans out.
Still hoping for income to pay the tax & BAS for the month & quarter. We also need (would like a lot) income to pay wages for the workers, us!
Good news is that we have enough to get through November. Sometimes the is only one news item!
Happy saving.
This evening we are meeting with somone about an idea, which sounds promising & 'll detail more if it pans out.
Still hoping for income to pay the tax & BAS for the month & quarter. We also need (would like a lot) income to pay wages for the workers, us!
Good news is that we have enough to get through November. Sometimes the is only one news item!
Happy saving.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
The house SOLD!
Well just when I had given up & begun my garden plans our house sold.
We got a big chunk less than the listed price, but we decided to sign and move on.
The purchaser is wrapped, which is great & certainly eases our pain, in some weird way.
What to do now, well that should play out over time...I hope.
I'm not sad or anxious but am now aware of tax implications and need to nut out some goals with DH and talk to the accountant.
We got a big chunk less than the listed price, but we decided to sign and move on.
The purchaser is wrapped, which is great & certainly eases our pain, in some weird way.
What to do now, well that should play out over time...I hope.
I'm not sad or anxious but am now aware of tax implications and need to nut out some goals with DH and talk to the accountant.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Simplicity!
I figure that all moneys owed to us will come in this quarter & I have given up worrying. Simple.
I was reading a blog on simplicity & come across this statemet, "Go outside and appreciate nature instead of cleaning your house." I love it! My house is a mess but now I can just go fora walk...or do a quick tidy & then go for a walk.
Whichever, Iam going to enjoy a walk & the house will ge tidied, and eventually, paid for.
I love simplicity!
I was reading a blog on simplicity & come across this statemet, "Go outside and appreciate nature instead of cleaning your house." I love it! My house is a mess but now I can just go fora walk...or do a quick tidy & then go for a walk.
Whichever, Iam going to enjoy a walk & the house will ge tidied, and eventually, paid for.
I love simplicity!
Friday, October 28, 2011
No Progress
I want there to be income so we can continue to make progress with our babysteps!
I am feeling somewhat frustrated at our progress being halted. We had been doing so well.
I like having a sense of direction in our finances and a plan to follow. I need a plan.
We are also transitioning the business finance at this time which will see us putting aside the tax and other expenses before paying ourselves, which is what we have been doing. It has worked so far but it is a bit stressful.
I am however grateful that we had begun this journey & still have some money to live on until we can draw a wage again.
I am finding this time to be challenging and stretching!
I look forward to it being over soon!
I am feeling somewhat frustrated at our progress being halted. We had been doing so well.
I like having a sense of direction in our finances and a plan to follow. I need a plan.
We are also transitioning the business finance at this time which will see us putting aside the tax and other expenses before paying ourselves, which is what we have been doing. It has worked so far but it is a bit stressful.
I am however grateful that we had begun this journey & still have some money to live on until we can draw a wage again.
I am finding this time to be challenging and stretching!
I look forward to it being over soon!
Nothing!
So far our income for the quarter has been very close to nothing! That doesn't make for sound sleep or good budgetting. Work may have slowed for a week or so but this is our longest financial drought to date. I am so very glad we have some money still. Family have offered us a loan if meed be, but that would only prop us up and be using tomorrows money as we still need to repay a loan, even if it is from family.
I am trying not to get worried but have found myself talking about it to my Mum. I need to act rich, we still have money to live on. I think my best strategy is to keep spending to a minimum and keep all bills up to date. Simple really. I can't save, as there is nothing to save. I can do a zero budget, like Dave Ramsey talks about, but in reality with an income of zero it is all just hypothetical spending.
My concern is paying our taxes, BAS, insurances and superannuation. They are relentless is accruing!
On the topic of selling our house...ta da...NOTHING! Nothing at all happening there, no interest, no offers and no open for inspections. Nothing.
Hoping that this will be only a temprorary hitch and that we will be able to draw a wage again soon. I cannot live on nothing forever.
Happy Saving!
I am trying not to get worried but have found myself talking about it to my Mum. I need to act rich, we still have money to live on. I think my best strategy is to keep spending to a minimum and keep all bills up to date. Simple really. I can't save, as there is nothing to save. I can do a zero budget, like Dave Ramsey talks about, but in reality with an income of zero it is all just hypothetical spending.
My concern is paying our taxes, BAS, insurances and superannuation. They are relentless is accruing!
On the topic of selling our house...ta da...NOTHING! Nothing at all happening there, no interest, no offers and no open for inspections. Nothing.
Hoping that this will be only a temprorary hitch and that we will be able to draw a wage again soon. I cannot live on nothing forever.
Happy Saving!
Monday, October 17, 2011
Sales contract madness!
After a shocking nights sleep I awoke vowing to read the sales contract we signed with the real estate agent.
Did that. Not very much infor on it. Turns out we can cancel, or opt out of, selling our house & paying the agent commission after 120 days and that is all it says. So I was feeling OK.
Then I vaccumed the cars & had the thought that my car needs a service! Panic! We have had no income this month & much less than normal last month. We are currently living off our savings. Thankful that we have some still.
Then I did some mowing & panicked some more that we are living way beyond our means with this house. I thought about selling my car, mowing other peoples yards for money (I am lousy at selling myself though).
I need some rest!
What a crazy busy mind I have. I don't think I could trust it, do you?
At least we do not have an open this weekend. Phew!
Did that. Not very much infor on it. Turns out we can cancel, or opt out of, selling our house & paying the agent commission after 120 days and that is all it says. So I was feeling OK.
Then I vaccumed the cars & had the thought that my car needs a service! Panic! We have had no income this month & much less than normal last month. We are currently living off our savings. Thankful that we have some still.
Then I did some mowing & panicked some more that we are living way beyond our means with this house. I thought about selling my car, mowing other peoples yards for money (I am lousy at selling myself though).
I need some rest!
What a crazy busy mind I have. I don't think I could trust it, do you?
At least we do not have an open this weekend. Phew!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Mid october blues & greys and all the colors of the rainbow!
This week I have been making plans for the garden. DH said after the last people looked at our house & made a very low verbal offer, that we would not be renewing the real estate contract if it didn't sell....then adding "but I think it will". Having no open this weekend due to an auction around the corner, I enjoyed my week and made plans to do this & that in the garden.
After a chat with DH about our finances, I was walking in the back garden thinking how we really would be better off if we sold this. Little knowing that the real estate agent would call & set up a time for people to come look at our house tomorrow, only bother is now I need to spruce it up again.
My yougest son cheered when I said someone was coming to look through the house. I get tense & a bit bossy/shouty about the clean up. One way to ruin a weekend I reckon. We can't even hide at the neighbors as they have already moved. Need a better plan so I don't get too stressed about the cleanliness of the house, they know we are living here! It does me no good to get all tense about people coming to look. If they like the house & garden they can see beyond our stuff & the way we keep the house.
It is such a crappy thing to sell your house. Would like that we had our wakeup call before we bought this but we didn't and now we get to endure a little discomfort to reinforce the lesson of living well within your means!
Happy Saving.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
I do NOT, NO! I do not want to sell anymore!
Well it is spring, lovely spring, we have had good rain already and everthing is flowering & growing. I don't want to sell. I want to be here to pick the apples and make apricot jam, to eat the blueberries and see DH preserve olives again. I don't want to move. We chose this house because of the office/study and the room to grow vegies. I was excited about the lemon tree, the established fruit trees and the vegie patch...strawberries by the side entrance & all the herbs. I don't want to move, I like it here. It is so quiet and the walks are lovely. I don't want to move, I want to stay.
But I also want to be able to do something apart from meet the mortgage payment each month, that would be nice. I can establish yet another garden I suppose. I could even get a plot at the community garden now so I could have organic vegies seemlessly, I could do that.
I do like to make house and would enjoy a garden that I could add my own touches to. I could start potting things now so that they are portable like lavendar and herbs, even some vegies. I coud do that.
It is the emotional ride each tme we have an open or someone comes to look, I don't like that.
We could even possibly get a long settlement, so I can get the apple & apricot harvest...maybe. But I'd like the pressure off with the mortgage sooner rather than later, so I am not convinced on that one.
Happy saving & make sure to buy only homes (and other things) that you really can afford!
But I also want to be able to do something apart from meet the mortgage payment each month, that would be nice. I can establish yet another garden I suppose. I could even get a plot at the community garden now so I could have organic vegies seemlessly, I could do that.
I do like to make house and would enjoy a garden that I could add my own touches to. I could start potting things now so that they are portable like lavendar and herbs, even some vegies. I coud do that.
It is the emotional ride each tme we have an open or someone comes to look, I don't like that.
We could even possibly get a long settlement, so I can get the apple & apricot harvest...maybe. But I'd like the pressure off with the mortgage sooner rather than later, so I am not convinced on that one.
Happy saving & make sure to buy only homes (and other things) that you really can afford!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Feelings, oohh...feelings.
Today I want a smaller mortgage but would not like to move.
Yesterday I did not want to sell at all & refused to talk to the real estate agent when she rang.
She was returning my call.
What is up with me?
I have been spending some more time outdoors as it is spring and the apricots are forming on the tree, my sons apple tree has lots of blossoms and the vegies are looking faabulous.
When I lie awake of the morning or night I worry about money, and ability to meet our obligations. At time I have felt anxious that we may suffer loss due to the real estate bubble bursting. But then I remember that we will also buy in the same market, so its affects will be both positive an negative for us, I think.
There has been no interest in our house for a while & we have not had an open for a few a few weeks. Apparently, things will pick up after the grand final! Now I have heard everything, unless, of course, if it turns out to be true. I guess I'll just have to wait & see. Grand final coincides with the end of term 3 for school and the start of daylight saving begins the following week, spring is the expected time for real estate to move & shake.
Our lovely neighbors, whom our children play with, move to a new area next week. They will be sorely missed!
Savings notes.
Spent quite a bit less on groceries this week to stay within my monthly budget. I ate leftover rice with satay sauce & pineapple chunks for lunch, followed by home brand milk arrowroot biscuts...what a bland lunch. But it kept me going until dinner, which was nice!
Been having quite a few no spend days and have spent only $7 so far on school holiday activities. We are going to the Melbourne Show this coming Monday so that will another $63 at least, but money well spent I believe.
I am getting into the groove with spending less, I can tell, because I reserved a book I'd like to read at the library. The telling sign is that I am 21st in line to read it! It will read the same now or sometime in the new year. I like the patience and sense of self worth that comes from taking charge of y spending, it feels really good to know that our little changes have lead us to dollars in the bank & better options.
Makes every choice worth it!'
Happy saving!
Monday, August 29, 2011
I'm on the road to nowhere!
I feel like I am on the road to nowhere at the moment. We have had zero interest in our house and I keep wondering if it is good timing. I don't know.
I do know we have an open for inspection this weekend, maybe something will ome of that.
Meanwhile I am doing my best with the budget & keep trimming expenses where I can.
Last week I switched health insurers, saving a whopping $60 a month! How about that!
I also wrote to cancel a life policy and they acted promptly, not taking 30 days as expected.
Since we realised we were spending too much we have cut spending on;
private shooling, shoes, food, all insurances (car, home, health), changed accountant, DH moved to a cheaper golf course, cut Zumba, limited childrens extra cirricular activities & spent less on gifts!
We have been following Dave Ramseys babysteps and ae up to Number 3, putting aside 3-6 months of living expenses. I have never had a financial plan before & the focus it has given me has been the impetus behind every change we have made.
So far the hardest change has been moving our son from his Christian School, he loved that school.
He is doing well & seems pretty happy at public school, but it was rough on this mothers heart.
So the going seems tough at the moment, and I feel like I am on the road to nowhere but we have a plan and are making progress.
In the words of Billy Ocean, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going"
Happy Saving!
I do know we have an open for inspection this weekend, maybe something will ome of that.
Meanwhile I am doing my best with the budget & keep trimming expenses where I can.
Last week I switched health insurers, saving a whopping $60 a month! How about that!
I also wrote to cancel a life policy and they acted promptly, not taking 30 days as expected.
Since we realised we were spending too much we have cut spending on;
private shooling, shoes, food, all insurances (car, home, health), changed accountant, DH moved to a cheaper golf course, cut Zumba, limited childrens extra cirricular activities & spent less on gifts!
We have been following Dave Ramseys babysteps and ae up to Number 3, putting aside 3-6 months of living expenses. I have never had a financial plan before & the focus it has given me has been the impetus behind every change we have made.
So far the hardest change has been moving our son from his Christian School, he loved that school.
He is doing well & seems pretty happy at public school, but it was rough on this mothers heart.
So the going seems tough at the moment, and I feel like I am on the road to nowhere but we have a plan and are making progress.
In the words of Billy Ocean, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going"
Happy Saving!
Monday, August 22, 2011
August 22nd
There has been no interest in our house, I waiver between liking that & wanting a smaller scale version.
I have been doing a little gardening which enjoy but which makes me feel attachment to the yard. The yard is fabulous & one of the reason we bought in the firt place. Time will tell.
I am up to the final part of the Tightwad Gazette, what a big fat informative book that is.. It certainly has helped (re)shape my thinking & spending. I also purchased Stop Acting Ricj by Thomas Stanley, I got the kindle version for under $9, and what little I have read had been challenging. I love it!
Bought some reduced turkey wings & made up some cat stew with them. I reckon I should use reduced meat most of the time, would have to work out cheaper. nothing compromised on quality either I can just make it up & then freeze it for future use. I made up 3 lots today, so I have one in the fridge & 2 in the freezerwhich I feel good about.
Have a childs birthday on the weekend & have an item of the boys as the gift. I was feeling really good about it & then another invite arrived today, looks like I may have to buy a gift...but I have time to think.
Has been a good month for low grocery totals but we have more than mad eup for it with the health budget. Those appoitments cost money and health is so precious, what can one do?
Happy Saving!
I have been doing a little gardening which enjoy but which makes me feel attachment to the yard. The yard is fabulous & one of the reason we bought in the firt place. Time will tell.
I am up to the final part of the Tightwad Gazette, what a big fat informative book that is.. It certainly has helped (re)shape my thinking & spending. I also purchased Stop Acting Ricj by Thomas Stanley, I got the kindle version for under $9, and what little I have read had been challenging. I love it!
Bought some reduced turkey wings & made up some cat stew with them. I reckon I should use reduced meat most of the time, would have to work out cheaper. nothing compromised on quality either I can just make it up & then freeze it for future use. I made up 3 lots today, so I have one in the fridge & 2 in the freezerwhich I feel good about.
Have a childs birthday on the weekend & have an item of the boys as the gift. I was feeling really good about it & then another invite arrived today, looks like I may have to buy a gift...but I have time to think.
Has been a good month for low grocery totals but we have more than mad eup for it with the health budget. Those appoitments cost money and health is so precious, what can one do?
Happy Saving!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Keen to sell NOW!
OK, after my detours I am keen to sell. Again. We have over extended ourselves with this house.
Our agent is confident and the vendors (us) are keen (even open to negotiation).
We have our first OFI at 1pm tomorrow, so its fingers crossed.
I'll need a good sleep as I have a big clean up in the morning.
Happy saving! Sending myself positive vibes!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Rollercoasters and trains!
The Rollercoaster!
I have ridden the emotional rollercoster of home selling this week.
I'm back on board the train 'journey to debt free living' again now.
I think.
What sent me on the rollercoaster of doubt?
Talking with a neighbor & hearing 'out of my mouth' that you could easily spend 100K on a crappy house to make it nice.
Looking at the cheap houses for sale and really thinking about life inside one of them.
Getting my period and letting my emotions take the lead.
Train to debt free living!
What has me back on board?
Finding a great looking house in our price range with all we want.
Talking to the lady who first motivated me to follow through with selling our house.
DH saying I should return to working at a Bank to help us pay the mortgage, are you kidding?
Hearing myself say I didn't like other houses because they had little pantries.
Back to our goals
I can work with a different size pantry, or buy/build one.
Reduce mortgage. Overall goal is "reduce mortgage." All aboard! This train is now departing!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Feelings!
I have been 'feeling' regretful over leaving this house & it isn't even on realesatate.com yet! I have been 'feeling' gassy & stuffed from overeating and I have been feeling tired.
Feelings, the ones about the house come from having looked online at what sort of house we will likely end up with for our new budget. This place has most everything!
Feeling like I have overeaten, because I have! It causes me indigestion aka heartburn! The more my tummy feels uncomfortable the more I seem to eat, how dumb is that? Last year I lost 20 kilograms & do not want to gain weight, again. This last week I changed my diet due to some food intolerance issues & now I need to revise my plan.
Feeling tired. I had bowen therapy today so my energy should be OK, but I need to get in a good sleep pattern.
I heard Dave Ramsey say on his podcast; "Grown ups make a plan & stick to it while children do whatever feels good"
We are grown ups following a plan to reduce our mmortgage. So while it may be sad, for a time, to give up all the little extras here I see a bigger goal in doing it.
I am grown up for eatting only til satisfied and being mindful of what & how much I am choosing to eat. Grown up Karen shall maintain this leaner weight & maybe even resume losing!
I am taking charge of my health, including my sleep. Not overeating will certainly help as will feeling the peace that comes from making a plan & sticking to it.
So my feelings seemed to be about 3 different things but I have only one answer, make a plan & stick to it.
That is my new plan.
Thank you Mr Ramsey.
Happy Saving!
Feelings, the ones about the house come from having looked online at what sort of house we will likely end up with for our new budget. This place has most everything!
Feeling like I have overeaten, because I have! It causes me indigestion aka heartburn! The more my tummy feels uncomfortable the more I seem to eat, how dumb is that? Last year I lost 20 kilograms & do not want to gain weight, again. This last week I changed my diet due to some food intolerance issues & now I need to revise my plan.
Feeling tired. I had bowen therapy today so my energy should be OK, but I need to get in a good sleep pattern.
I heard Dave Ramsey say on his podcast; "Grown ups make a plan & stick to it while children do whatever feels good"
We are grown ups following a plan to reduce our mmortgage. So while it may be sad, for a time, to give up all the little extras here I see a bigger goal in doing it.
I am grown up for eatting only til satisfied and being mindful of what & how much I am choosing to eat. Grown up Karen shall maintain this leaner weight & maybe even resume losing!
I am taking charge of my health, including my sleep. Not overeating will certainly help as will feeling the peace that comes from making a plan & sticking to it.
So my feelings seemed to be about 3 different things but I have only one answer, make a plan & stick to it.
That is my new plan.
Thank you Mr Ramsey.
Happy Saving!
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
A New Month
It is August, and I find myself crossing off the months as we get paid monthly!
Today I bought shampoo & conditioner it cost $50. That may sound a lot but it lasts us over months for a family of 4. It is lavender which I love. The market stall holder even threw in 2 free lavender soaps, one for me and one for my heart sister! I posted it this afternoon, finally a gift is on its way!
I also found a singlet top and a lovely skirt at an op shop for $1 each. They fit, but I'm not usually a wearer of skirts due to unshaven legs and lace up shoes (as I have bunions). I can always turn it into a pillow slip like I originally intended.
Spent the morning at the communtiy garden. I used my birthday money to join. I joined to meet fellow gardeners and to learn from others. Today I learnt that they successfully mulch over thick layers of newspaper, that where I went wrong. The rotten kikuya grass just grows through the mulch we have there at the moment, I need some newpaper action. I came home with a bag of organic vegetables after having worked a bit seiving soil & mulching up scraps for the compost. I feel richer already.
I may redo some of the mulched areas here, even though the house is for sale, I need the practice. I can do it for my own pleasure and experience.
Very tired tonight after a poor sleep and some physical labor, though not too intense.
Happy saving!
Today I bought shampoo & conditioner it cost $50. That may sound a lot but it lasts us over months for a family of 4. It is lavender which I love. The market stall holder even threw in 2 free lavender soaps, one for me and one for my heart sister! I posted it this afternoon, finally a gift is on its way!
I also found a singlet top and a lovely skirt at an op shop for $1 each. They fit, but I'm not usually a wearer of skirts due to unshaven legs and lace up shoes (as I have bunions). I can always turn it into a pillow slip like I originally intended.
Spent the morning at the communtiy garden. I used my birthday money to join. I joined to meet fellow gardeners and to learn from others. Today I learnt that they successfully mulch over thick layers of newspaper, that where I went wrong. The rotten kikuya grass just grows through the mulch we have there at the moment, I need some newpaper action. I came home with a bag of organic vegetables after having worked a bit seiving soil & mulching up scraps for the compost. I feel richer already.
I may redo some of the mulched areas here, even though the house is for sale, I need the practice. I can do it for my own pleasure and experience.
Very tired tonight after a poor sleep and some physical labor, though not too intense.
Happy saving!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Selling Real Estate!
Well we have the signs up and have a contract with the agent, but DH thinks the starting or listing price is too high! Should we drop it before it even gets out there?
I think the agent is a professional and she is working for fixed rate, and that we should leave it at the high price for the month of August & see what happens.
It is the largest single item I have ever been involved in selling!
I listened to Scott Pape on Triple M, talking about 'Housing affordability" and got a bit worried, but this area is still doing well and it cant hurt to try. I am willing to give the agent a go at getting what she thinks for our house.
Not sure how we will go getting a deposit for the new one, but that is not today's problem.
Happy Saving!
I think the agent is a professional and she is working for fixed rate, and that we should leave it at the high price for the month of August & see what happens.
It is the largest single item I have ever been involved in selling!
I listened to Scott Pape on Triple M, talking about 'Housing affordability" and got a bit worried, but this area is still doing well and it cant hurt to try. I am willing to give the agent a go at getting what she thinks for our house.
Not sure how we will go getting a deposit for the new one, but that is not today's problem.
Happy Saving!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Real Estate Boards are UP!
Well I went out this morning & by the time I got back the real estate boards are up! 2 of them, one on the front & one on the side, as we live on a corner block.
Feels like a step in the right direction. Found a nice house on realestate.com last night that ticks all the boxes, now we just need to sell.
What are the boxes?
Less mortgage.
Minimum 1/4 acre land.
In our area so the boys don't have to change schools.
Room to grow vegies, so we need some sunshine, and DH's aquaponics.
Shed with power.
Car port or garage.
3 bedroom plus a study.
Outdoor entertaining area.
Wish list...
Ensuite. Evaporative cooling. Timber flooring. Established gardens.
Really dreaming...
Fruit trees, compost bays, grey water system, water tanks, spa and/or pool.
Lets see how soon this house sells!
Feels like a step in the right direction. Found a nice house on realestate.com last night that ticks all the boxes, now we just need to sell.
What are the boxes?
Less mortgage.
Minimum 1/4 acre land.
In our area so the boys don't have to change schools.
Room to grow vegies, so we need some sunshine, and DH's aquaponics.
Shed with power.
Car port or garage.
3 bedroom plus a study.
Outdoor entertaining area.
Wish list...
Ensuite. Evaporative cooling. Timber flooring. Established gardens.
Really dreaming...
Fruit trees, compost bays, grey water system, water tanks, spa and/or pool.
Lets see how soon this house sells!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Selling our house
After firmly deciding we wanted to reduce our mortgage we have listed our house for sale.
We engaged a number of local agents. Taking the best offered price to the best presenting company, and they accepted! We have a top quality agent for a flat rate fee. Very good.
I rang the mortgage broker to see what we had to do and it turns out our mortgage is portable. Meaning we have pre approved finance as we are downsizing and that there is no early exit fee to pay (as we won't be exiting). How good is that? If we dont find somewhere to move to that lines up we can put a term deposit in with them & keep our mortgage open, then buy.
It is all new ideas to me but it is good news, I think, especially for the bank.
My grocery bill was under $200 this week. I am planning on starting a price book as suggested in the Tightwad Gazette, it is such a good idea. May take a while to get it all working properly, but that sure will help me spot a real bargain! I shall continue to keep a watchful eye on spending in this process so we are getting the most out of our dollars that we can.
Happy saving.
We engaged a number of local agents. Taking the best offered price to the best presenting company, and they accepted! We have a top quality agent for a flat rate fee. Very good.
I rang the mortgage broker to see what we had to do and it turns out our mortgage is portable. Meaning we have pre approved finance as we are downsizing and that there is no early exit fee to pay (as we won't be exiting). How good is that? If we dont find somewhere to move to that lines up we can put a term deposit in with them & keep our mortgage open, then buy.
It is all new ideas to me but it is good news, I think, especially for the bank.
My grocery bill was under $200 this week. I am planning on starting a price book as suggested in the Tightwad Gazette, it is such a good idea. May take a while to get it all working properly, but that sure will help me spot a real bargain! I shall continue to keep a watchful eye on spending in this process so we are getting the most out of our dollars that we can.
Happy saving.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Buying Local Art
My birthday is coming up, so in thinking of what I would ask DH for I asked for local art!
I love art but am just an admirer, not an expert.
When our boys were away for the weekend we went & browsed some local galleries. I found lovely art but at prices beyond our meager budget.
Then I was reading, The Tightwad Gazette!, she mentioned making your own artworks. I mentioned this to DH but wasn't really happy about this option. I may end up with a cut out picture from a magazine in a frame. Don't get me wrong, the picture may be perfectly charming and the price wonderful, but I wanted art! Original local art!
So I began looking in op shops. They have loads of original art, not sure about local though but some fine pieces.
I found a still life one, that DH purchased for my birthday and it was framed locally so that fits the bill of , "Original Local Art!". Woo hoo! Success at only $15, how cool is that?
Then today I was browsing an op shop after my second errand of the day & I found another. It was $3 and is a painting of a local beach. It is a "Local original Artwork", also fitting the bill and the budget. This one is more of a landscape but I really like it.
I also picked up a pair of footy boots for DS5 and shoes for DS7, I got me a couple of books to read and a puzzle to do! There was no price on one item and I baulked at the offered price, so I got the footy boots for $5. I bought a necklace also and another one in an op shop at Balnarring, I have my quota of art & necklaces now!
I made my $100 birthday money go a fair way and, unlike previous years, I do have something to show for it!
Happy saving!
I love art but am just an admirer, not an expert.
When our boys were away for the weekend we went & browsed some local galleries. I found lovely art but at prices beyond our meager budget.
Then I was reading, The Tightwad Gazette!, she mentioned making your own artworks. I mentioned this to DH but wasn't really happy about this option. I may end up with a cut out picture from a magazine in a frame. Don't get me wrong, the picture may be perfectly charming and the price wonderful, but I wanted art! Original local art!
So I began looking in op shops. They have loads of original art, not sure about local though but some fine pieces.
I found a still life one, that DH purchased for my birthday and it was framed locally so that fits the bill of , "Original Local Art!". Woo hoo! Success at only $15, how cool is that?
Then today I was browsing an op shop after my second errand of the day & I found another. It was $3 and is a painting of a local beach. It is a "Local original Artwork", also fitting the bill and the budget. This one is more of a landscape but I really like it.
I also picked up a pair of footy boots for DS5 and shoes for DS7, I got me a couple of books to read and a puzzle to do! There was no price on one item and I baulked at the offered price, so I got the footy boots for $5. I bought a necklace also and another one in an op shop at Balnarring, I have my quota of art & necklaces now!
I made my $100 birthday money go a fair way and, unlike previous years, I do have something to show for it!
Happy saving!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Yesterday!
I neglected to post yesterday, doesn't matter I can do it today!
yesterday I did the grocery shopping & even with a little bit of stockpiling on specials I still spent under $250! I am amazed as I was always spending $300 not that long ago & I think prices have gone up! We are still eating the same and the cupboards are just as full, so what happened?
I got smarter & only buy what we need, being a mindful NOT to add extra items to the trolley, that has helped.
Using up what is in the pantry & garden. I have been eating a lot more silver beet & even started to eat the stems as they are good for food too. So that is a small saving. I have been mindful not to over do the vegetables as I can just fo crazy on the at times, this has saved us money!
I have told the kids to eat more toast and sandwiches, as bread is cheap! This has saved us money too. Our chooks are laying well, that helps, and I have cut way down on my coffe & choclate consumption. I actually bought my own chocolate yesterday, making sure to get it on special. Coffee is expensive, I was buying a pack of decaf a week at one stage, I drink more hot/warm water these days & I like it.
I read in the tightwad gazette about "The Art of Negotiation" last night. I am thinking i could do this a whole lot more & have a go (as it suggets) at teaching it to my kids. I have actually tried to teach them before but the didn't grasp it, I think my method was lacking not their intelligence!
Kids can benefit from learning this early I believe, so I shall try again & use the book method this time!
I'll see how it goes.
Happy Saving!
yesterday I did the grocery shopping & even with a little bit of stockpiling on specials I still spent under $250! I am amazed as I was always spending $300 not that long ago & I think prices have gone up! We are still eating the same and the cupboards are just as full, so what happened?
I got smarter & only buy what we need, being a mindful NOT to add extra items to the trolley, that has helped.
Using up what is in the pantry & garden. I have been eating a lot more silver beet & even started to eat the stems as they are good for food too. So that is a small saving. I have been mindful not to over do the vegetables as I can just fo crazy on the at times, this has saved us money!
I have told the kids to eat more toast and sandwiches, as bread is cheap! This has saved us money too. Our chooks are laying well, that helps, and I have cut way down on my coffe & choclate consumption. I actually bought my own chocolate yesterday, making sure to get it on special. Coffee is expensive, I was buying a pack of decaf a week at one stage, I drink more hot/warm water these days & I like it.
I read in the tightwad gazette about "The Art of Negotiation" last night. I am thinking i could do this a whole lot more & have a go (as it suggets) at teaching it to my kids. I have actually tried to teach them before but the didn't grasp it, I think my method was lacking not their intelligence!
Kids can benefit from learning this early I believe, so I shall try again & use the book method this time!
I'll see how it goes.
Happy Saving!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Indulged my kids with $36!
What could I have done with $36?
Food, I think I could do a few days on $36.
Given it to charity!
18 Lindt Chocolate bars, but only when they are on special for $1.99.
bought them a toy each.
Had a haircut.
Posted a gift to someone.
Bought a book I fancied.
Had a meal or snack out.
2 water aerobics classes.
bought a bunch of flowers for myself.
Bought a cupboard full of mugs from the op shop.
Bought plants for the garden.
Had a browse & done some buying at the market on any given Sunday morning.
Bought 3 bags of chook food.
Put it in the emergency fund.
give it to a stranger, anonamously!
Make someones day with flowers.
Buy music.
Buy food with all of it & then give that food to charity.
turn it to gift cards & then give them away.
Put it in the boys money box.
Make it a donation to the school or a local kinder, special school etc.
buy ingrediens & bake give all the goods away.
Buy my husband a box of beer or sone nice wine.
Buy myself some seafood & gobble it all up!
Put it in an envelope until I forget about it!
Buy me an item or few of clothing, in a color I love.
buy a fancy necklace.
Buy a beautiful & useless item....now I talking nonsense!
So I spent $36 indulging my boys on the final day of school holidays, they had a great holiday period, I need a rest.
Food, I think I could do a few days on $36.
Given it to charity!
18 Lindt Chocolate bars, but only when they are on special for $1.99.
bought them a toy each.
Had a haircut.
Posted a gift to someone.
Bought a book I fancied.
Had a meal or snack out.
2 water aerobics classes.
bought a bunch of flowers for myself.
Bought a cupboard full of mugs from the op shop.
Bought plants for the garden.
Had a browse & done some buying at the market on any given Sunday morning.
Bought 3 bags of chook food.
Put it in the emergency fund.
give it to a stranger, anonamously!
Make someones day with flowers.
Buy music.
Buy food with all of it & then give that food to charity.
turn it to gift cards & then give them away.
Put it in the boys money box.
Make it a donation to the school or a local kinder, special school etc.
buy ingrediens & bake give all the goods away.
Buy my husband a box of beer or sone nice wine.
Buy myself some seafood & gobble it all up!
Put it in an envelope until I forget about it!
Buy me an item or few of clothing, in a color I love.
buy a fancy necklace.
Buy a beautiful & useless item....now I talking nonsense!
So I spent $36 indulging my boys on the final day of school holidays, they had a great holiday period, I need a rest.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Reduce Mortgage!
I sat down & had a talk with DH this afternoon. I had an idea about the problem of too much house & mortgage, I can't help but try & come up with answers to unresolved. We chatted a bit & tossed around ideas, and came to the conclusion and goal of "REDUCE MORTGAGE". Simple.
The whole selling & moving idea had been put on the back burner when DH didn't have much work, it just seemed too hard! It was too hard. Our goal was too vague & and our next step undefined. Now we are somewhat clearer and will sell & then buy, so we move only one. We may well have to ask for a temporary loan from relatives for the deposit on the new place. We shall attempt to negotiate a 5% deposit to help keep this workable.
Then there's the mortgage broking. I shall ring whom we are with now & see about negotiating a one off fee, rather than ongoing kickback for them for the life of the loan, I gotta aim at something.
We shall hope to move around the same time as a neighbor, whom our boys play with often, which may be less of an upheaval to them (here's hoping).
Buying this house was not a failure on our part, just an expensive case of trial & error. We have discovered that we like to raise chooks, DH got into his aquaponics, the boys have settled into a local school and we like the area. So no failures here only people making mistakes and learning from them. Our choice to sell sooner rather than later should help us be totally debt free sooner, waiting longer would only serve to keep us stuck. I think a new house (again) is a positive move and think we will be more discerning and smarter purchasers.
Happy Saving!
The whole selling & moving idea had been put on the back burner when DH didn't have much work, it just seemed too hard! It was too hard. Our goal was too vague & and our next step undefined. Now we are somewhat clearer and will sell & then buy, so we move only one. We may well have to ask for a temporary loan from relatives for the deposit on the new place. We shall attempt to negotiate a 5% deposit to help keep this workable.
Then there's the mortgage broking. I shall ring whom we are with now & see about negotiating a one off fee, rather than ongoing kickback for them for the life of the loan, I gotta aim at something.
We shall hope to move around the same time as a neighbor, whom our boys play with often, which may be less of an upheaval to them (here's hoping).
Buying this house was not a failure on our part, just an expensive case of trial & error. We have discovered that we like to raise chooks, DH got into his aquaponics, the boys have settled into a local school and we like the area. So no failures here only people making mistakes and learning from them. Our choice to sell sooner rather than later should help us be totally debt free sooner, waiting longer would only serve to keep us stuck. I think a new house (again) is a positive move and think we will be more discerning and smarter purchasers.
Happy Saving!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Take away food!
Today I treated the little boys to lunch out!
They had a $20 budget, which I thought was ample as they are 5 & 7!
Their food was $6.40 but the drinks, WOW, were $7.60. I was flabbergasted and felt like I had been living elsewhere for years, decades even. I can't recall the last time I bought them food & drink out, we so seldom do it ithese days.
Then my year old wanted sauce with his chips & by the time he had how much he wanted it was $1.20's worth of sauce. Even ice creams were cheaper than them drinks!
They did really appreciate it, well DS5 said "Thankyou, that was great!".
When we used to spend like money was going out of fashion, he would not have been so appreciative. I read about it when i got home in the Tightwad Gazette, she (Amy Dacyczyn) called it "Creative Deprivation". Each time a want is catered to it then takes more to satisfy each time. A period of deprivation leads to one being grateful again, even for small things. She even suggests we try it on ourselves.
Very interesting!
Todays wrap up!!
Today I went to the library while the boys were at sculpture, I also went to the supermarket where I knew chocolate was on special to buy some. It was but the specific one I wanted was not to be seen. So I stood there wondering what to do. I looked at another brand, but it was flavoured & had dairy & soy that I didn't really want to ingest. So I looked at the ones I usually buy, then I moved the top one and 'tada' the one I usually buy was hidden behind one block of chocolate. Celebration time! I found it!..then I ate it & took the rest home. YUM, I do like it but it gives me heartburn.
So I spent about $20 on boys, and some of my money & got chocolate & a nice leather belt, $4.
I also found an original still life painting for $15. I had asked for local art for my birthday & after browsing some galleries on Sunday with DH I came home & read in the tightwad gazette about making your own art. Yeah, I didn't want to pay lots of money but I did want an origianl still life painting, and hopefully it will still be in the op shop tomorrow when DH & DS7 go there tomorrow. I did think op shops were my best bet! Yee Ha!!
They had a $20 budget, which I thought was ample as they are 5 & 7!
Their food was $6.40 but the drinks, WOW, were $7.60. I was flabbergasted and felt like I had been living elsewhere for years, decades even. I can't recall the last time I bought them food & drink out, we so seldom do it ithese days.
Then my year old wanted sauce with his chips & by the time he had how much he wanted it was $1.20's worth of sauce. Even ice creams were cheaper than them drinks!
They did really appreciate it, well DS5 said "Thankyou, that was great!".
When we used to spend like money was going out of fashion, he would not have been so appreciative. I read about it when i got home in the Tightwad Gazette, she (Amy Dacyczyn) called it "Creative Deprivation". Each time a want is catered to it then takes more to satisfy each time. A period of deprivation leads to one being grateful again, even for small things. She even suggests we try it on ourselves.
Very interesting!
Todays wrap up!!
Today I went to the library while the boys were at sculpture, I also went to the supermarket where I knew chocolate was on special to buy some. It was but the specific one I wanted was not to be seen. So I stood there wondering what to do. I looked at another brand, but it was flavoured & had dairy & soy that I didn't really want to ingest. So I looked at the ones I usually buy, then I moved the top one and 'tada' the one I usually buy was hidden behind one block of chocolate. Celebration time! I found it!..then I ate it & took the rest home. YUM, I do like it but it gives me heartburn.
So I spent about $20 on boys, and some of my money & got chocolate & a nice leather belt, $4.
I also found an original still life painting for $15. I had asked for local art for my birthday & after browsing some galleries on Sunday with DH I came home & read in the tightwad gazette about making your own art. Yeah, I didn't want to pay lots of money but I did want an origianl still life painting, and hopefully it will still be in the op shop tomorrow when DH & DS7 go there tomorrow. I did think op shops were my best bet! Yee Ha!!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Tired!
Well a batch of fatigue or extreme tiredness has hit me this last few days & I have gone to bed when I would have been blogging. That said, onto a new post.
Golf.
My husband plays golf and has had a membership at a local course for about 3 years. Last year we moved. Then we realised we needed to be smarter with our money. That same 'local' course is now a 30 minute drive away and the membership is about the dearest bill we have, so it got cut. Ouch. He mourned & moped but after some time without golf at all, about 10 days, he is joining one that is about 10 minutes away that is about half the cost of the other one.
Worst of all he got a speeding fine on his way to his final game at the (not so) 'local' one. Double ouch!
This way I can give him his golf money monthly and he can pay it when it is due, without putting us into budget stress. Phew, all it took was nine months of him agonising over it and endlessly talking about it to finally come to a decision.
Nuts & Bolts
I have been reading the Tightwad Gazette, the ocomplete one that is almost a thousand pages! I have gleaned a few tips but mostly I feel encouraged in my frugal lifestyle, its good to know that I am not alone.
I didn't venture out today, though I was tempted to go & get some chocolate that I saw on special. I didn't... I ate the remaining fruit rings instead, but I still want chocolate, I think I can make a dairy free hot choc from the pantry!
I made a big batch of Molly stew, I vacuumed (in attempt to distract myself), I did the ironing and surfed the net!!
Am heading out tomorrow, will go to the library while the boys at sculpture lesson I have DVD's to return.
I also gave something away on Ziilch, a website that is similar in concept to freecyclye. Google it!
Happy saving!
Golf.
My husband plays golf and has had a membership at a local course for about 3 years. Last year we moved. Then we realised we needed to be smarter with our money. That same 'local' course is now a 30 minute drive away and the membership is about the dearest bill we have, so it got cut. Ouch. He mourned & moped but after some time without golf at all, about 10 days, he is joining one that is about 10 minutes away that is about half the cost of the other one.
Worst of all he got a speeding fine on his way to his final game at the (not so) 'local' one. Double ouch!
This way I can give him his golf money monthly and he can pay it when it is due, without putting us into budget stress. Phew, all it took was nine months of him agonising over it and endlessly talking about it to finally come to a decision.
Nuts & Bolts
I have been reading the Tightwad Gazette, the ocomplete one that is almost a thousand pages! I have gleaned a few tips but mostly I feel encouraged in my frugal lifestyle, its good to know that I am not alone.
I didn't venture out today, though I was tempted to go & get some chocolate that I saw on special. I didn't... I ate the remaining fruit rings instead, but I still want chocolate, I think I can make a dairy free hot choc from the pantry!
I made a big batch of Molly stew, I vacuumed (in attempt to distract myself), I did the ironing and surfed the net!!
Am heading out tomorrow, will go to the library while the boys at sculpture lesson I have DVD's to return.
I also gave something away on Ziilch, a website that is similar in concept to freecyclye. Google it!
Happy saving!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Just buy less!
I read this money saving tip on a blog, and they said it works...in most situations.
I am not a shopper but at times I just seem to buy 'stuff', I don't come home with useful life enhancing purchses. Just stuff. I think I can benefit if I can keep this in miind. Perhps 'mindful shopping' would be a more apt term for me. I am sure I couls spend money in life enriching ways, rather than just fritter away like I have done in the past. I pulled DH up on this last weekend when the kids came home from a 9am swimming lessons with hot dogs! It was less than $5 but totally unnecessary. He has bought them footy cards too. At $3 a pack that is no value at all. They glance at them & then leave them kicking around the house & end up giving them away, that is frittering money away!
Today, on my way to get a free local paper, I saw a shop closing sign & went in thinking it was a cheap shop. Itt was a party shop. I did get a gift for a party tomorrow, some fancy gift bags & an awesome pinata for DS5's upcoming party. I didn't really need any of that stuff but it will get used. The gift will be given tomorrow. The gift bags will be used slowly, they are fancy grey/silver ones that I can dress up home made gifts with. And the Pinata will make a little boys day later next month. All for less than $20, that was a good buy I think.
Today I talked to DH about my stress over 'having' to get a job & he said 'just go with the flow'! Phew. Did 5 loads of washing, even though it is bitterly cold here. Some of it even dried on the line, the rest is still on the racks under the heating vents. Changed my bed sheets & doona cover (hence the washing). Sat in the library & read (The Tightwad Gazette) while the boys played free wii, gotta love the library! Enjoyed 'family feast night', having placemats, cloth napkins and sweet drink for all. It was so fancy having orange jelly for dessert and lime soft drink from a wine glass!
Enjoyed a good day.
Good night!
"Just buy less"
I am not a shopper but at times I just seem to buy 'stuff', I don't come home with useful life enhancing purchses. Just stuff. I think I can benefit if I can keep this in miind. Perhps 'mindful shopping' would be a more apt term for me. I am sure I couls spend money in life enriching ways, rather than just fritter away like I have done in the past. I pulled DH up on this last weekend when the kids came home from a 9am swimming lessons with hot dogs! It was less than $5 but totally unnecessary. He has bought them footy cards too. At $3 a pack that is no value at all. They glance at them & then leave them kicking around the house & end up giving them away, that is frittering money away!
Today, on my way to get a free local paper, I saw a shop closing sign & went in thinking it was a cheap shop. Itt was a party shop. I did get a gift for a party tomorrow, some fancy gift bags & an awesome pinata for DS5's upcoming party. I didn't really need any of that stuff but it will get used. The gift will be given tomorrow. The gift bags will be used slowly, they are fancy grey/silver ones that I can dress up home made gifts with. And the Pinata will make a little boys day later next month. All for less than $20, that was a good buy I think.
Today I talked to DH about my stress over 'having' to get a job & he said 'just go with the flow'! Phew. Did 5 loads of washing, even though it is bitterly cold here. Some of it even dried on the line, the rest is still on the racks under the heating vents. Changed my bed sheets & doona cover (hence the washing). Sat in the library & read (The Tightwad Gazette) while the boys played free wii, gotta love the library! Enjoyed 'family feast night', having placemats, cloth napkins and sweet drink for all. It was so fancy having orange jelly for dessert and lime soft drink from a wine glass!
Enjoyed a good day.
Good night!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Incoming!!!!!
Action #3: Get 1 paying client (15-35 minutes)
Simple steps:
- Brainstorm a specific need you can fill – Can you cut grass? Shovel snow? Walk dogs? Provide computer training/support? Tutor? Teach English? Consult on a topic?
- Write out three clear benefits to working with you - Pick three BENEFITS of what someone would get out of working with you. BAD: I’ll cut your lawn. GOOD: You’ll have a freshly trimmed, clipping-free yard by the time you get home. Three benefits.
- Brainstorm 5 people who could use those benefits - 5 people. Likely whom you already have some relationship with (or know through someone). Quickly list them out.
- Call the most likely candidate – Pick one that’ll especially need your benefits. Call them. Explain who you are and list out the three benefits of them hiring you. Then… just ask.
- Continue down your list until you have 1 client. If the first doesn’t work, try the other 4 – one at a time.
How this can change your life: The biggest mistake most people make in making more money is that they do TOO much planning. Your facebook fan page, twitter profile, and even your blog aren’t a tenth of the value of your first paying client. You’ll learn more in this process than you will in years of tweeting. I promise.
I have been thinking for a while that I could offer house duites as a form of part time work for myself, I like ironing & baking etc. Then I found this. I would like to work about 10 - 20 hours a week and bring in a regular income, even from erratic work. I am not thinking regular clients just one time or some time work, am I dreaming?
A List of things I can do!
Ironing. Freshly pressed garments, from a smoke free home delivered to your door! Leaving you time to relax!
Shopping. I'll turn your list into a products without the effort of going to the supermarrket, delvered to your door and I can even put them away for you if you like! Now that is service.
Clean your house.While you work or play I'll be there cleaning your home, so you can return and admire the clean surrounds without having used your precious energy on boring house cleaning.
Bake biscuts & cakes (allergies no problem). Like home baked goodies but lack the time, use mine! I have been baking for my family for the past 10 years, tasty home baked goodies fresh to your dooor. Catering for allergies no problem at all, whatever your requirement.
Shredding documents. Why not let me shredd those papers & dispose of them for you, can be done at your home, I'll bring my shredder with me! If you prefer I can shredd the documents and leave it for you to dispose of as you choose, it is your secruity after all.
Laundry, at your place or mine. No time to put the wash on? I have the time! Don't have a washing machine? I do! Has your machine broken down or is it unreliable, let me pick up the slack for you and have you back on top of things as soon as possible.
Will consider other requests also.
Available only between 10am and 3pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Prefernce given to loacls!
Now to put myself out there, that is the part at which I have previously stumbled but need to move beyond. I am a capable person and well able to do all those tasks, I just need to match them with some one who needs them done for them. All possible.
Today I found some hope, and bouncy balls, while decluttering & cleaning. Now I need to somehow transfer that hope into action, I can do it! The post I copied to put here says it takes 15 - 35 minutes, I'd be happy with that! Today I calculated how long Baby Step will take us on our current rate & it was 2.23 years! Was is .23 of a year anyway? I want to find a way to help that along. Today I cleaned the blinds in the bathroom, vacuumed the boys room & kitchen living area, made a yummy dinner for the family(chips & snitzel for little boys & roast pork for grown ups). I listened to some podcasts & read for a while. I made food, put away clothes and read blogs, pretty quiet day really. I also got in a 20 minute walk a few push ups and some internet surfing, I need a job!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Food Budget
I read a blog post today that said that during the Great Depression food took up 30% of people income. This month that would be a lot, I think we spent d quite a bit on food at almost 16% (based on this months income). Not sure where we fit in on a larger scale but I do try and keep food expenses down. It is a constant effort.
When i first joined Simple Savings I was throwing out quite a bit of food. I would buy great looking produce but fail to consume it and it would end up in the compost. We had a great compost but were throwing montey away.
I got the food bill under control & then I began to focus on my health & weight, so the type of food I ate changed & I had to spend more money. Recently I have been zeroing in on the food budget & have spent under budget for the first time last month. The beginning was an exact food budget & once I was a little under one week it became a game. I have lowered the budget this month but have begun menu planning, with the kind help of my 7 year old son (gotta love that kid). Menu planning means I buy food for meals & am not left wondering 'what's for dinner'. That question starts early at our house as DS5 is uite food obsessed, in a good way.
So what do we do to keep the grocery bill down?
I grow some of my own food. I have a constant supple of green leaves to eat as I love them. I have lettuce just starting , silver beet and rocket on the go at the moment.
We keep our own chickens for manure & eggs. Chooks have great personality, so it is partly for pleasure too.
I compost everything I can. I have a 3 bay compost system and I love composting & can't understand peoople that don't.
I check the price for unit or weight, not just the shelf price. Sometimes the smaller one is cheaper, but not always.
I look for home brand or generic options. They are not available for eveything but I use the flour, sugar, snack & cracker biscuts, lollies, and nappy stuff and have not had a problem. They are just cheaper items.
I keep scarps to use later. Like I do for Molly stew but I also ave the crusts to make breadcrumbs, use up every last little bit of something and make the best use of my freezer. I do try.
I drink hot water as I like it and it is way cheaper than tea or coffee. It is always a cheap option when out too & sometimes it is even free. I have got od looks when I drink special tea or felt limited when I only drink decaf but hot water makes every host feel good and I get a drink I like, perfect!
I try to reuse some of the packaging.
Today I; was disappointed to see DH got a $239 speeding fine; was likewise disappointed to drive somewhere to buy an item at a market stall that wasn't there; the kids all played with cardboard xes that I had saved the last few weeks; tidied my desk but didn't find what I was looking for; used a 4cent voucher to buy fuel and saved $1.30 (I think); was tired & crabby in the afternoon & ate too much sugar.
I have no set plan tomorrow for the boys but I hopeit is better than today.
I'll jump start that with an early night!
When i first joined Simple Savings I was throwing out quite a bit of food. I would buy great looking produce but fail to consume it and it would end up in the compost. We had a great compost but were throwing montey away.
I got the food bill under control & then I began to focus on my health & weight, so the type of food I ate changed & I had to spend more money. Recently I have been zeroing in on the food budget & have spent under budget for the first time last month. The beginning was an exact food budget & once I was a little under one week it became a game. I have lowered the budget this month but have begun menu planning, with the kind help of my 7 year old son (gotta love that kid). Menu planning means I buy food for meals & am not left wondering 'what's for dinner'. That question starts early at our house as DS5 is uite food obsessed, in a good way.
So what do we do to keep the grocery bill down?
I grow some of my own food. I have a constant supple of green leaves to eat as I love them. I have lettuce just starting , silver beet and rocket on the go at the moment.
We keep our own chickens for manure & eggs. Chooks have great personality, so it is partly for pleasure too.
I compost everything I can. I have a 3 bay compost system and I love composting & can't understand peoople that don't.
I check the price for unit or weight, not just the shelf price. Sometimes the smaller one is cheaper, but not always.
I look for home brand or generic options. They are not available for eveything but I use the flour, sugar, snack & cracker biscuts, lollies, and nappy stuff and have not had a problem. They are just cheaper items.
I keep scarps to use later. Like I do for Molly stew but I also ave the crusts to make breadcrumbs, use up every last little bit of something and make the best use of my freezer. I do try.
I drink hot water as I like it and it is way cheaper than tea or coffee. It is always a cheap option when out too & sometimes it is even free. I have got od looks when I drink special tea or felt limited when I only drink decaf but hot water makes every host feel good and I get a drink I like, perfect!
I try to reuse some of the packaging.
Today I; was disappointed to see DH got a $239 speeding fine; was likewise disappointed to drive somewhere to buy an item at a market stall that wasn't there; the kids all played with cardboard xes that I had saved the last few weeks; tidied my desk but didn't find what I was looking for; used a 4cent voucher to buy fuel and saved $1.30 (I think); was tired & crabby in the afternoon & ate too much sugar.
I have no set plan tomorrow for the boys but I hopeit is better than today.
I'll jump start that with an early night!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Herald Sun Spread Revisited!
VICTORIANS LIVING ON THE EDGE!
72% are worried about making ends meet. Well that is most people. Who hasn't wondered this at some time?
If you don't have a plan or keep track of income & expenditure then it really is left wide open to worry...or action. My suggestion would be to get a plan, track your spending even for a little while so you know how much is going where and where you could make changes. Peace of mind is valuable and a plan is simple, there are loads of good plans out there or you could make your own. I follow Dave Ramseys 7 Babysteps and have found it is working very well for us.
66% say they have cut back. That is a vague statistic. What have they cut back and by how much or how often? Does cutting back on spending mean one is living on the edge? There is not enough information given here to really make any statement.
46% may avoid the movies. I personally don't like the movies much. I don't want to be entertained I would rather be learning or be active in some way, even if it is only intellectually. No great loss unless you work at the movies I reckon.
39% will cut back on driving. Petrol has gone up in price in my short 41 years. I remember driving when it was 45 cents a litre and think I can even recall paing 30 ents, but I am yet to pay $1.30 as I buy it on cheap days with a discount voucher. I bought a small car and try to use it as little as possible, but that is my choice. But hey! I don't like driving either. Aren't we supposed to drive less with all the talk of carbon emissions etc. ?
35%could stop buying new clothes. Another vague one. I don't buy many clothes but I do buy them for my kids and i have bought a couple of items in the last few months. They last quite a long time so as long as no one is naked I don't see a problem with forgoing new clothes.
23% plan to avoid the doctor. This is weighted and lacks specific information. If my kids are unwell I can take them to a clinic that bulk bills, so I am not out of pocket and no one is at risk.
22% have struggled to put food on the table. I don't believe this at all!
19% would stop buying meat. That may have something to do with the push to say that a vegetarian diet is healthy combined with living on the edge. I sure won't be giving up my eat but I do watch the prices closely.
15% are considering dropping private school. We have already done this and it hurt for a time but it was necessary. We have public school options and no one will be without an education. Not a huge deal.
10% are considering getting rid of pets. That is fair enough I think. If you have limited finance, which we all do, people are more important than pets & only one in ten are 'considering' getting rid of them at this stage, I think that is wisdom.
Today's wrap up. I noticed a $10 fee on my home loan account so I set up a direct credit each month to cover it. I cancelled direct credits that are beyond Baby Step 3 until we get this emergency fund completed. I sat in Rosebud library and read the latest Time magazine and borrowed some interesting books. I love libraries, they are awesome. I took the boys to a school holiday activity at another library this afternoon & that was by far the best $4 I have ever spent. They had Wild Action come with real animals to the library and the kids got to touch them, hear them and learn about them, it was excellent.
I also made a batter using the last of the juice from a tin of peaches and a black banana. It was OK and was more of a sweet craving on my part and the family thought it novel. I tried.
My home made splint was a success. I made a few modifications, I trimmed it a bit more, but it worked perfectly. I ma y put off buying one for a while yet. I just needed something that I could do myself & this works well, the meat tray & sock.
I also took down a note from Time where they asked an architect a question about how you could spruce up any house & he said to cull some furniture, paint it all white & clean the windows. I like that. According to him "It's all about luminosity". A thought worth capturing I felt.
I'm off to continue reading "The Moneyless Man"...very interesting!
72% are worried about making ends meet. Well that is most people. Who hasn't wondered this at some time?
If you don't have a plan or keep track of income & expenditure then it really is left wide open to worry...or action. My suggestion would be to get a plan, track your spending even for a little while so you know how much is going where and where you could make changes. Peace of mind is valuable and a plan is simple, there are loads of good plans out there or you could make your own. I follow Dave Ramseys 7 Babysteps and have found it is working very well for us.
66% say they have cut back. That is a vague statistic. What have they cut back and by how much or how often? Does cutting back on spending mean one is living on the edge? There is not enough information given here to really make any statement.
46% may avoid the movies. I personally don't like the movies much. I don't want to be entertained I would rather be learning or be active in some way, even if it is only intellectually. No great loss unless you work at the movies I reckon.
39% will cut back on driving. Petrol has gone up in price in my short 41 years. I remember driving when it was 45 cents a litre and think I can even recall paing 30 ents, but I am yet to pay $1.30 as I buy it on cheap days with a discount voucher. I bought a small car and try to use it as little as possible, but that is my choice. But hey! I don't like driving either. Aren't we supposed to drive less with all the talk of carbon emissions etc. ?
35%could stop buying new clothes. Another vague one. I don't buy many clothes but I do buy them for my kids and i have bought a couple of items in the last few months. They last quite a long time so as long as no one is naked I don't see a problem with forgoing new clothes.
23% plan to avoid the doctor. This is weighted and lacks specific information. If my kids are unwell I can take them to a clinic that bulk bills, so I am not out of pocket and no one is at risk.
22% have struggled to put food on the table. I don't believe this at all!
19% would stop buying meat. That may have something to do with the push to say that a vegetarian diet is healthy combined with living on the edge. I sure won't be giving up my eat but I do watch the prices closely.
15% are considering dropping private school. We have already done this and it hurt for a time but it was necessary. We have public school options and no one will be without an education. Not a huge deal.
10% are considering getting rid of pets. That is fair enough I think. If you have limited finance, which we all do, people are more important than pets & only one in ten are 'considering' getting rid of them at this stage, I think that is wisdom.
Today's wrap up. I noticed a $10 fee on my home loan account so I set up a direct credit each month to cover it. I cancelled direct credits that are beyond Baby Step 3 until we get this emergency fund completed. I sat in Rosebud library and read the latest Time magazine and borrowed some interesting books. I love libraries, they are awesome. I took the boys to a school holiday activity at another library this afternoon & that was by far the best $4 I have ever spent. They had Wild Action come with real animals to the library and the kids got to touch them, hear them and learn about them, it was excellent.
I also made a batter using the last of the juice from a tin of peaches and a black banana. It was OK and was more of a sweet craving on my part and the family thought it novel. I tried.
My home made splint was a success. I made a few modifications, I trimmed it a bit more, but it worked perfectly. I ma y put off buying one for a while yet. I just needed something that I could do myself & this works well, the meat tray & sock.
I also took down a note from Time where they asked an architect a question about how you could spruce up any house & he said to cull some furniture, paint it all white & clean the windows. I like that. According to him "It's all about luminosity". A thought worth capturing I felt.
I'm off to continue reading "The Moneyless Man"...very interesting!
Monday, July 4, 2011
4th of July!
Well it is Independence day somewhere, how sweet that will be when we are free from debt. We are free from debt at the moment, except the mortgage and I am pleased about that.
Today I read 2 page article in the Herald Sun and I just got DH to go fetch it from the recycle bin. The article was titled "Money fears push families to brink", and can be found on page 10 & 11 of the Herald Sun for 4th July 2011.
We don't buy the paper, it came with the nerty today at Scienceworks. So I was having a browse on the way home. They have a money and business liftout on a Monday too, which I have sometimes glanced at if i have been at my Mum's of a Monday.
This article is ridiculous. I found no helpful information in it. The above mentioned headline is for 4 separate article to do with finance related topics ranging from mortgage rates to takeaway food.
The examples given are somewhat flimsy and I didn't read of any genuine signs of hardship. Worst case reported was that they were having take away food less often, o please!
They cashed in on fear & linked in an article on depression too! Not taking control of your finances is depressing. Feeling like you deserve everything even when you dont have the money to meet that desire is depressing.
In one section titled "Super pinch" Karen Collier says that "Struggling victorians want access to their super earlier despite worries about the size of their nest egg." So people want to spend it now & fuel more worry about later, without actually doing anything to ensure later is OK. Sounds stupid to me!
What about work a plan to grow your nest egg and get control of your finances now, and avoid worry all together. Replace worry and possible depression with a plan. But that sounds too easy! Surely I don't have enough money already to even think about building a retiement nest egg, do I? Why not? Are you overspending?
If only 15% of readers stick to a budget then 85% potentially wasting money and have no idea where.
All of the things Karen says that people are reviewing are non essential, is that newsworthy?
When I saw the spread initially I thought it may be helpful and have some good tips, even just a good read. But no, all little bits of infomation thrown together haphazardly in attmept to make a news item of a hot topic. Thumbs down from me.
I did learn that the Resrve Bank board meets tomorrow, July 5th, but some expect rates to stay the same and some don't. Great article, I think not.
Where i live I and peek into the trolleys of other shoppers I see chips, soft drink and masses of pet food & I see juice too.
Perhaps I think I am trying harder than other people even though I don't really know what they are doing. Well I am; sticking to a written budget, where every dollars is given a job on paper before the start of the month; turning off applicances at the wall when they are not being used; saving vegetable peel to make pet food; growing my own vegetable; shopping from a list weekly; menu planning but only as of the last fortnight; shopping around for the best price on insurance; collecting rewards points without a credit card; composting; keeping our own chickens for eggs; buying plain label food where appropriate rather than pay more for branded items; making all my food from scratch; and using up whatever finds its way into my pantry; I bought a 2nd drying rack and no longer use the clothes dryer at all. That is all I can think of at the moment. I am sitting here with a beanie and a warm wheat bag on my lap as it is a cold winter night.
Today I; got a free herald Sun with the admission price into Scienceworks; saved vegie scraps for Molly Stew; took lunches and snacks with us on our outing; got a free cup of hot water when I bought DH a coffee (he paid); had lunch when I got home, actually it was early dinner; and I read an article that really annoyed me due to its lack of information. "Simple Saving" has much better content than the Herald Sun, but I did already know that!
Oh, I also have attempted to make a splint from a sock & a cut up meat tray to stop me making a fist in my sleep. I have been using a bandage & 2 icy pole sticks but I hope this works better. The sticks dig in and are uncomfortable.
I am enjoying this journey and the creativity it brings out. We had a good day today and have a full program again tomorrow.
Good night!
Today I read 2 page article in the Herald Sun and I just got DH to go fetch it from the recycle bin. The article was titled "Money fears push families to brink", and can be found on page 10 & 11 of the Herald Sun for 4th July 2011.
We don't buy the paper, it came with the nerty today at Scienceworks. So I was having a browse on the way home. They have a money and business liftout on a Monday too, which I have sometimes glanced at if i have been at my Mum's of a Monday.
This article is ridiculous. I found no helpful information in it. The above mentioned headline is for 4 separate article to do with finance related topics ranging from mortgage rates to takeaway food.
The examples given are somewhat flimsy and I didn't read of any genuine signs of hardship. Worst case reported was that they were having take away food less often, o please!
They cashed in on fear & linked in an article on depression too! Not taking control of your finances is depressing. Feeling like you deserve everything even when you dont have the money to meet that desire is depressing.
In one section titled "Super pinch" Karen Collier says that "Struggling victorians want access to their super earlier despite worries about the size of their nest egg." So people want to spend it now & fuel more worry about later, without actually doing anything to ensure later is OK. Sounds stupid to me!
What about work a plan to grow your nest egg and get control of your finances now, and avoid worry all together. Replace worry and possible depression with a plan. But that sounds too easy! Surely I don't have enough money already to even think about building a retiement nest egg, do I? Why not? Are you overspending?
If only 15% of readers stick to a budget then 85% potentially wasting money and have no idea where.
All of the things Karen says that people are reviewing are non essential, is that newsworthy?
When I saw the spread initially I thought it may be helpful and have some good tips, even just a good read. But no, all little bits of infomation thrown together haphazardly in attmept to make a news item of a hot topic. Thumbs down from me.
I did learn that the Resrve Bank board meets tomorrow, July 5th, but some expect rates to stay the same and some don't. Great article, I think not.
Where i live I and peek into the trolleys of other shoppers I see chips, soft drink and masses of pet food & I see juice too.
Perhaps I think I am trying harder than other people even though I don't really know what they are doing. Well I am; sticking to a written budget, where every dollars is given a job on paper before the start of the month; turning off applicances at the wall when they are not being used; saving vegetable peel to make pet food; growing my own vegetable; shopping from a list weekly; menu planning but only as of the last fortnight; shopping around for the best price on insurance; collecting rewards points without a credit card; composting; keeping our own chickens for eggs; buying plain label food where appropriate rather than pay more for branded items; making all my food from scratch; and using up whatever finds its way into my pantry; I bought a 2nd drying rack and no longer use the clothes dryer at all. That is all I can think of at the moment. I am sitting here with a beanie and a warm wheat bag on my lap as it is a cold winter night.
Today I; got a free herald Sun with the admission price into Scienceworks; saved vegie scraps for Molly Stew; took lunches and snacks with us on our outing; got a free cup of hot water when I bought DH a coffee (he paid); had lunch when I got home, actually it was early dinner; and I read an article that really annoyed me due to its lack of information. "Simple Saving" has much better content than the Herald Sun, but I did already know that!
Oh, I also have attempted to make a splint from a sock & a cut up meat tray to stop me making a fist in my sleep. I have been using a bandage & 2 icy pole sticks but I hope this works better. The sticks dig in and are uncomfortable.
I am enjoying this journey and the creativity it brings out. We had a good day today and have a full program again tomorrow.
Good night!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
menu planning miracles
I did the food shoppinf today instead on Monday as we are going out as a family tomorrow. I did a menu plan and checked the food supply before I went & miracle of miracles! I spent a lot less. I will need to buy more milk later in the week, but I have the menu on the fridge and all the food there to make it up. I love menu planning.
I think I am getting gazelle intense as I can feel the extra dollars being squeezed out otf the budget.
Today I; made up Molly's stew using all the frozen scraps. I got online & checked the prices of activity ideas before we got there (haven't done that before). I want for a walk when I was cold & cross with DH. I jogged down one section of dirt road to really warm up and shift my focus. I told DS5 he can have sandwiches or toast rather than endless bickies, bread is $1 a loaf at the moment. I got a whole chook at $3.99 a kilo and bought a large pice of beef to make my own mince rather than eat crap steak or pay rop price for unpleasant mince. I mince some budget steak & the patties just tasted like steak, I love it!
I also got out & read the mortgage agreement & discovered the exit fee is $1200 but we may have to pay broker fees too.
Today I am feeling motivated and encouraged with our progress.
I think I am getting gazelle intense as I can feel the extra dollars being squeezed out otf the budget.
Today I; made up Molly's stew using all the frozen scraps. I got online & checked the prices of activity ideas before we got there (haven't done that before). I want for a walk when I was cold & cross with DH. I jogged down one section of dirt road to really warm up and shift my focus. I told DS5 he can have sandwiches or toast rather than endless bickies, bread is $1 a loaf at the moment. I got a whole chook at $3.99 a kilo and bought a large pice of beef to make my own mince rather than eat crap steak or pay rop price for unpleasant mince. I mince some budget steak & the patties just tasted like steak, I love it!
I also got out & read the mortgage agreement & discovered the exit fee is $1200 but we may have to pay broker fees too.
Today I am feeling motivated and encouraged with our progress.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Mindsets!
I have been reading minimalism blogs for a while, becuase I find them interesting and inspiring. I have decluttered, but could always do more...even if my family don't think so.
I had my hair cut today and the hairdresser got to telling me about her Great Aunt. I won't go into all the drama but she mentioned a couple of noteworthy things about the Great Aunt, one that she had money and two that even though she has always been a single lady she chose to live frugally.
Could I enjoy a frugal life? I do like to be creative, often because I have to due to making something from nothing. But as a way of life, is that something worthy of pursuit? This Great Aunt has been able to help family financially over the years. She has consistently been a source of financial backing & resource. That sounds like a noble calling.
In our talk of moving I came to a place in me that is wildly discontent with where I live, not just how much it costs to live here and how long in takes to clean. Is that something I need to make provision for, I don't think so.
Surely life can be rich and fulfilling without spending lots of money on stuff.
Today I made chocolate pudding and some chocolate crunchie biscuts after turning the oven on to make the boys dinner. I planted cos lettuce seedlings I have raised and used worm castings from DS's worm farm to encourage their growth. I have been working on using up camomile tea and nori sheets from the pantry, made meals more intersting. I have some other items that I'll discover I'm sure.
I also realise after reading a newsletter from Scott Pape that I need to read our mortgage documents to check out what our early exit fees are, we may have to wait a little. I need to read them.
Another great washing day. A friend gave me a small bottle of an amway solution for removing greasy stains, it works brilliantly. I used it on a top that was otherwise going in the compost & the stain is completly gone, I am impressed. Got 3 loads dry today in the sunny breezy weather. I have not used the dried for a while now. I invested $25 in a 2nd drying rack, and I make the effort to finish things off inside under heating vents. Every bit helps.
I am going to put up some flyers and get some ironing work. I need to get some income flowing and I hope to put up a flyer or two tomorrow, and apply for Bunnings.
Happy Saving!
I had my hair cut today and the hairdresser got to telling me about her Great Aunt. I won't go into all the drama but she mentioned a couple of noteworthy things about the Great Aunt, one that she had money and two that even though she has always been a single lady she chose to live frugally.
Could I enjoy a frugal life? I do like to be creative, often because I have to due to making something from nothing. But as a way of life, is that something worthy of pursuit? This Great Aunt has been able to help family financially over the years. She has consistently been a source of financial backing & resource. That sounds like a noble calling.
In our talk of moving I came to a place in me that is wildly discontent with where I live, not just how much it costs to live here and how long in takes to clean. Is that something I need to make provision for, I don't think so.
Surely life can be rich and fulfilling without spending lots of money on stuff.
Today I made chocolate pudding and some chocolate crunchie biscuts after turning the oven on to make the boys dinner. I planted cos lettuce seedlings I have raised and used worm castings from DS's worm farm to encourage their growth. I have been working on using up camomile tea and nori sheets from the pantry, made meals more intersting. I have some other items that I'll discover I'm sure.
I also realise after reading a newsletter from Scott Pape that I need to read our mortgage documents to check out what our early exit fees are, we may have to wait a little. I need to read them.
Another great washing day. A friend gave me a small bottle of an amway solution for removing greasy stains, it works brilliantly. I used it on a top that was otherwise going in the compost & the stain is completly gone, I am impressed. Got 3 loads dry today in the sunny breezy weather. I have not used the dried for a while now. I invested $25 in a 2nd drying rack, and I make the effort to finish things off inside under heating vents. Every bit helps.
I am going to put up some flyers and get some ironing work. I need to get some income flowing and I hope to put up a flyer or two tomorrow, and apply for Bunnings.
Happy Saving!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
EOM. the last day of June
It is the last of the month today. I feel so flat when I think about moving, more specifically about selling and being permanently done with this house and its yard. Haven't found a patch of dirt anywhere, in any place I've lived, I didn't like. The earth is rich here, there are lots of worms and most plants grow well. It is more than I have the energy to maintain, however, which is why moving shall happen...again.
Today I transferred our wage so we start the month with money.
Made Molly's stew with the scraps I froze then blended, it came out OK.
Picked up some groceries at WW and am happy to report the chicken was only 3.99 a kg, apples were 1/2 price reduced, and chocolate (I bought with blow money) was on special. Almost feels as if all is right with the world.
I only bought the 4 things on my list at the super market.
I changed a periodic payment to fit our new budget. (I have more to change)
I have been admiring tree dahlias in local yards, I rented a place that had them and I think they are amazing & beautiful. Today Mum gave me a piece from which to start some. Now I am torn. Do I plant it knowing that I won't be here to enjoy it or attempt to keep it? I have also been thinking about the house we left and how we had fitted it out with all the things we like, gas ducted heating , evaporative air conditioning and splashes of colour. But the neighbors were awful, it didn't have an office, the area was noisy and it is sold and we have moved. Mostly we have moved the kids schooling and they have formed new relationships. I am uncomfortable with the idea that any of that will be unsettled by this coming move. I feel like I need to talk but I am not talking to my family as they are not like minded. I am not looking for someone to agree with us, I process things by talking and just need to talk. Blogging helps too.
Today I transferred our wage so we start the month with money.
Made Molly's stew with the scraps I froze then blended, it came out OK.
Picked up some groceries at WW and am happy to report the chicken was only 3.99 a kg, apples were 1/2 price reduced, and chocolate (I bought with blow money) was on special. Almost feels as if all is right with the world.
I only bought the 4 things on my list at the super market.
I changed a periodic payment to fit our new budget. (I have more to change)
I have been admiring tree dahlias in local yards, I rented a place that had them and I think they are amazing & beautiful. Today Mum gave me a piece from which to start some. Now I am torn. Do I plant it knowing that I won't be here to enjoy it or attempt to keep it? I have also been thinking about the house we left and how we had fitted it out with all the things we like, gas ducted heating , evaporative air conditioning and splashes of colour. But the neighbors were awful, it didn't have an office, the area was noisy and it is sold and we have moved. Mostly we have moved the kids schooling and they have formed new relationships. I am uncomfortable with the idea that any of that will be unsettled by this coming move. I feel like I need to talk but I am not talking to my family as they are not like minded. I am not looking for someone to agree with us, I process things by talking and just need to talk. Blogging helps too.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
July budget
I did july's budet today, it took me ages. I have a sore back to prove it. I kept going over the numbers until I was happy. Our expenses are high & I look forward to seeing them decrease when we move, but that is not happening this week.
Today I rang around for the best price on Home & contents insurance. Alliance were $150 cheaper than the renewal at AAMI. Took a while though as I got 4 quotes, but I am happy with reducing that by $150. (Go Me)
I did 3 loads of washing & hung them on the clothesline, so they got half dry, then I put them on the dring racks inside so I avoid using the clothes dryer. Another win.
I saved all the vegies peel & little bits for Molly's Stew. Molly is our cat & I make her food also.
I went for a walk rather than turning on the heater.
That is my small efforts today. I am glad I made them.
Today I rang around for the best price on Home & contents insurance. Alliance were $150 cheaper than the renewal at AAMI. Took a while though as I got 4 quotes, but I am happy with reducing that by $150. (Go Me)
I did 3 loads of washing & hung them on the clothesline, so they got half dry, then I put them on the dring racks inside so I avoid using the clothes dryer. Another win.
I saved all the vegies peel & little bits for Molly's Stew. Molly is our cat & I make her food also.
I went for a walk rather than turning on the heater.
That is my small efforts today. I am glad I made them.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Today I
Its almost July and we have realised that our house is too big, the yard reqires too much maintenence and the mortgage really is more than we can afford. We came to this realisation last Friday and after discussing it with my husband and sleeping on it we are both agreed we need to downsize. This blog will be our journey from our too big time to debt free living. Yes I hope to continue this blog as we journey to completing the Dave Ramsey Babysteps, as outlined in the Total Money Makeover. We are currently on Babystep 3 having begun in October last year.
Today I used a 4 cent voucher to dave myself $1.15 on fuel. I ate up the meat with the shortest use by date. Fed the cat the fluid from the meat wrapper & saved the carrot peel to make her (Molly the cat) stew that she eats. I also made a gift bag using a local paper & some stickers my boys didn't want for my great neices 2nd birthday in about 10 days. I wrote down my spending in a book. I booked my boys into a $2 holiday activity at the local library and a free one also.
My goal is to create a sense of progress as I blog about our journey to debt free living and have a place to record & celebrate all the small steps we take to get there.
We are a family of 5. My husband & myself, 2 boys aged 5 and 7 and a cat.
We currently live in a large house, over 0 squares on 1/3 of an acre and are about to
Today I used a 4 cent voucher to dave myself $1.15 on fuel. I ate up the meat with the shortest use by date. Fed the cat the fluid from the meat wrapper & saved the carrot peel to make her (Molly the cat) stew that she eats. I also made a gift bag using a local paper & some stickers my boys didn't want for my great neices 2nd birthday in about 10 days. I wrote down my spending in a book. I booked my boys into a $2 holiday activity at the local library and a free one also.
My goal is to create a sense of progress as I blog about our journey to debt free living and have a place to record & celebrate all the small steps we take to get there.
We are a family of 5. My husband & myself, 2 boys aged 5 and 7 and a cat.
We currently live in a large house, over 0 squares on 1/3 of an acre and are about to
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