$12500 is roughly what I owe in CC debt.
I am getting semi -discouraged, because I am throwing a good amount of money at my overall debt, and when I see my CC debt stagnant or even increase, makes me want to dive into cheesecake.
No bueno.
I am keeping the focus on CC debt, but hoping that seeing the big number go down will help fight off debt fatigue.
After Rainman slammed the already rickety exterior front door, the want to replace went to the damn thing won't open need to be replaced.
As the back exterior door was one good Rainman slam from falling off, ordered through the Home Depot, and after the usual Home Depot incompetence, three weeks later I have new doors :)
I raided the ING house improvement fund (deleted it pretty much), and am waiting for the payment to post to my Discover.
I also hope to pay off the balance on my car loan this Friday, which will make me smile.
Working on Christmas presents.
Forrest is largely done, mostly DVDS (he had a long list), maybe a new DVD player and a DVD or two that hasn't been released yet.
Rainman is next, I've only got him one VHS tape only (he always wants older vids that never made it to DVD), and I need to pick him up mostly inexpensive toys and art supplies.
I need to pin down the other two, Bathboy will most likely want XBox games, and game related gifts, while my daughter has just got her permit and may want money for her car fund.
I know this is a common lament, but Xmas comes way too fast every year.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Menu Plan Monday
Yes, using this as a virtual to-do list.
Monday:Steak, Seasoned Fries, Spinach
Tuesday: Steak Fajitas, Halloween Cake
Wednesday: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Spinach
Thursday:Spaghetti, Meatballs, Red Sauce
Friday: Chicken for the Lazy, roasted Veggies
Saturday: Chicken Fajitas
Yes, I am in a rut, but balancing the finicky auties with the need for sameness and the more sophisticated palates of the neuro-typicals leads to enough battles as it is.
Plus, I really need to eat out of this freezer.
Monday:Steak, Seasoned Fries, Spinach
Tuesday: Steak Fajitas, Halloween Cake
Wednesday: Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Spinach
Thursday:Spaghetti, Meatballs, Red Sauce
Friday: Chicken for the Lazy, roasted Veggies
Saturday: Chicken Fajitas
Yes, I am in a rut, but balancing the finicky auties with the need for sameness and the more sophisticated palates of the neuro-typicals leads to enough battles as it is.
Plus, I really need to eat out of this freezer.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Massachusetts Child Support Enforcement is a joke.
$12,364. is my debt.
Got to love when you get a call from the Department of Revenue about back child support and even they are shocked at how much is owed.
Another six months has passed without even a penny in support paid, two court appearances with the Judge doing absolutely nothing, and another $5000 or so added to back support owed.
The Massachusetts Department of Revenue does not take child support enforcement seriously.
The Massachusetts Department of Revenue Child Support Enforcement Division overall has been useless in collecting unpaid child support for my children.
As of 9/23/11, not including unpaid medicals, anything we were supposed to go half on, the money he owes to the other family deadbeat dad has a son with that he doesn't see either, or the years of back support that I gave up on, the total child support enforcement order $27,219.
The child support enforcement rep I spoke with on Friday actually had a heart, and explained that with the back load of cases, they can't even get a court date for me until a year or 18 months.
She suggested I file on my own.
Great, file on my own to appear in court against a family law attorney?
Um, no.
It's disgusting.
What did happen, after years of him not paying, there does seem to be a consequence, that went into effect Friday.
His driver's license was suspended.
Most likely, he will appeal, and the child support enforcement judge will reinstate it, but please send positive thoughts that she will at least make him pay something before she does.
Got to love when you get a call from the Department of Revenue about back child support and even they are shocked at how much is owed.
Another six months has passed without even a penny in support paid, two court appearances with the Judge doing absolutely nothing, and another $5000 or so added to back support owed.
The Massachusetts Department of Revenue does not take child support enforcement seriously.
The Massachusetts Department of Revenue Child Support Enforcement Division overall has been useless in collecting unpaid child support for my children.
As of 9/23/11, not including unpaid medicals, anything we were supposed to go half on, the money he owes to the other family deadbeat dad has a son with that he doesn't see either, or the years of back support that I gave up on, the total child support enforcement order $27,219.
The child support enforcement rep I spoke with on Friday actually had a heart, and explained that with the back load of cases, they can't even get a court date for me until a year or 18 months.
She suggested I file on my own.
Great, file on my own to appear in court against a family law attorney?
Um, no.
It's disgusting.
What did happen, after years of him not paying, there does seem to be a consequence, that went into effect Friday.
His driver's license was suspended.
Most likely, he will appeal, and the child support enforcement judge will reinstate it, but please send positive thoughts that she will at least make him pay something before she does.
Monday, September 19, 2011
This is taking forever............
$12737.
I just keep focusing on the fact that by this time next year, all my credit card debt should be gone.
As well as my car loan.
Then I can kill Sallie Mae and her two ugly sisters.
Then I can get a bigger house.
Then my life can begin ;)
Yes, it's a pity party sort of day.
Trying to get my thoughts for the week together, and this is my virtual menu plan to do list.
Monday: Cheesy Chicken Casserole/Fattening, good, and I need to use up shredded cheese.
Tuesday: Spaghetti &Meatballs
Wednesday: Chicken for the lazy, roasted veggies.
Thursday: Rice, leftover chicken, broccoli
Friday: Leftovers (just me, most likely)
Saturday: Beef &Broccoli stir fry
I really need to get some other kinds of meat, but I have a deep freezer bursting with chicken, so chicken it often is.
Salads served with the above, as well as Rainman's special foods.
I also need to make blueberry muffins, apple bakes, and some cinnamon raisin bread for snacks.
Oh man, the diet for Mommy will be fun this week.
I just keep focusing on the fact that by this time next year, all my credit card debt should be gone.
As well as my car loan.
Then I can kill Sallie Mae and her two ugly sisters.
Then I can get a bigger house.
Then my life can begin ;)
Yes, it's a pity party sort of day.
Trying to get my thoughts for the week together, and this is my virtual menu plan to do list.
Monday: Cheesy Chicken Casserole/Fattening, good, and I need to use up shredded cheese.
Tuesday: Spaghetti &Meatballs
Wednesday: Chicken for the lazy, roasted veggies.
Thursday: Rice, leftover chicken, broccoli
Friday: Leftovers (just me, most likely)
Saturday: Beef &Broccoli stir fry
I really need to get some other kinds of meat, but I have a deep freezer bursting with chicken, so chicken it often is.
Salads served with the above, as well as Rainman's special foods.
I also need to make blueberry muffins, apple bakes, and some cinnamon raisin bread for snacks.
Oh man, the diet for Mommy will be fun this week.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Surfing Credit Card Debt
$13214.10
New D-day October 1, 2012.
I did a balance transfer, and put my high rate Discover balance to a 0% Citi transfer offer with a 5% fee, for 18 months.
It should help me pay it off faster, but Mint doesn't like it.
I also had a very expensive start of the school year, spending more than I wanted, and as my income took a dip due to less work, I put a most of it on a credit card, so with that and the balance transfer fee, not a good debt pay off month.
I am focusing on my cc debt, and I know it's a marathon not a race, but my car loan feels like it's going down by leaps and bounds, although my student loan debt seems to be dragging along.
Just got to keep swimming.
Menu plan for the week:
Sunday: Leftover take out pizza from lunch (ex pays for this as I take the twins back early)
Monday: English Muffin Pizzas
Tuesday: Crockpot Chicken, potatoes, onions, etc (trying to get rid of some root vegetables).
Wednesday: Cheesey Chicken Casserole (eating from the freezer)
Thursday: Spaghetti meatballs red sauce.
Friday: most likely just me, something easy like salad.
Saturday: Digiorno pizza from the freezer, salad.
Looks not so healthy, but on the side is always veggies, salad, etc.
And I have a lot of stuff that will soon go bad if I don't use it up.
With the weather getting colder, I will be filling in with snacks such as blueberry muffins, baked apples, and there are so many inexpensive bread recipes that I really want to try.
And I may even get really ambitious and start taking pictures ;)
New D-day October 1, 2012.
I did a balance transfer, and put my high rate Discover balance to a 0% Citi transfer offer with a 5% fee, for 18 months.
It should help me pay it off faster, but Mint doesn't like it.
I also had a very expensive start of the school year, spending more than I wanted, and as my income took a dip due to less work, I put a most of it on a credit card, so with that and the balance transfer fee, not a good debt pay off month.
I am focusing on my cc debt, and I know it's a marathon not a race, but my car loan feels like it's going down by leaps and bounds, although my student loan debt seems to be dragging along.
Just got to keep swimming.
Menu plan for the week:
Sunday: Leftover take out pizza from lunch (ex pays for this as I take the twins back early)
Monday: English Muffin Pizzas
Tuesday: Crockpot Chicken, potatoes, onions, etc (trying to get rid of some root vegetables).
Wednesday: Cheesey Chicken Casserole (eating from the freezer)
Thursday: Spaghetti meatballs red sauce.
Friday: most likely just me, something easy like salad.
Saturday: Digiorno pizza from the freezer, salad.
Looks not so healthy, but on the side is always veggies, salad, etc.
And I have a lot of stuff that will soon go bad if I don't use it up.
With the weather getting colder, I will be filling in with snacks such as blueberry muffins, baked apples, and there are so many inexpensive bread recipes that I really want to try.
And I may even get really ambitious and start taking pictures ;)
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Keep on chugging...........
$13,365.
D-Free Day Sept. 1, 2012
Seems like I throw a lot at it, but it's just slowly going down.
I started a sub account at ING for house stuff.
Going to try to direct money into this account for house repairs.
It sounds goofy, but the best way for me to save is to earmark money into an account with a purpose, to not touch the money at all until it's time to buy.
Along with paying off cc debt (my number one goal, although student loans are up there), like any house, mine needs work.
I also plan on selling in maybe two years, closer to three, and I need to really amp up the curb appeal.
By November 1st, I need to replace four doors, two exterior and two entry.
Rainman keeps slamming them, and the front entry door has a full glass panel that is one slam away from shattering.
The others have born his stimming and kicks, and the exterior entry door is essentially duct taped in one section.
My goal is to divert $1500 by November 1st for the four doors plus installation, which I think I should be able to manage.
My design options are limited, as the doors are all odd sizes, which is a blessing in that I don;t really have a luxury door option.
Ten weeks, give or take, that I need to put $150 per week in the pot.
With my cc repayment, it's going to be even tighter than usual, but putting it out there for accountability.
MJ
D-Free Day Sept. 1, 2012
Seems like I throw a lot at it, but it's just slowly going down.
I started a sub account at ING for house stuff.
Going to try to direct money into this account for house repairs.
It sounds goofy, but the best way for me to save is to earmark money into an account with a purpose, to not touch the money at all until it's time to buy.
Along with paying off cc debt (my number one goal, although student loans are up there), like any house, mine needs work.
I also plan on selling in maybe two years, closer to three, and I need to really amp up the curb appeal.
By November 1st, I need to replace four doors, two exterior and two entry.
Rainman keeps slamming them, and the front entry door has a full glass panel that is one slam away from shattering.
The others have born his stimming and kicks, and the exterior entry door is essentially duct taped in one section.
My goal is to divert $1500 by November 1st for the four doors plus installation, which I think I should be able to manage.
My design options are limited, as the doors are all odd sizes, which is a blessing in that I don;t really have a luxury door option.
Ten weeks, give or take, that I need to put $150 per week in the pot.
With my cc repayment, it's going to be even tighter than usual, but putting it out there for accountability.
MJ
Monday, July 18, 2011
Menu Plan Monday
$14,535.
Sept. 1, 2012. D-Free Day.
I need to get veggies tomorrow.
Monday-Meatball Subs, Caramel Apple Crisp (plus need to make some Blueberry Muffins for snacks and breakfasts while the apple crisp is baking)
Tuesday-Cheesy Chicken Rice Dish
Wednesday-Chicken Broccoli Stir fry
Thursday-Chicken for the Lazy
Friday-Leftovers, most likely just me with maybe a random offspring. Chicken Salad, greens.
Saturday-Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce, salad.
Sept. 1, 2012. D-Free Day.
I need to get veggies tomorrow.
Monday-Meatball Subs, Caramel Apple Crisp (plus need to make some Blueberry Muffins for snacks and breakfasts while the apple crisp is baking)
Tuesday-Cheesy Chicken Rice Dish
Wednesday-Chicken Broccoli Stir fry
Thursday-Chicken for the Lazy
Friday-Leftovers, most likely just me with maybe a random offspring. Chicken Salad, greens.
Saturday-Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce, salad.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Personal Finance Blogger Rant
$14984.
Although my credit card debt has not gone down, my other debt, such as student loans, have.
Oddly, I'm proud it didn't go up, because the buy out of my former good paying contracting company has been horrendous.
For what little work there is, I've been paid, but there simply isn't enough to feed everyone.
It's extremely frustrating, as I can see what the new people are doing wrong, lots of beginner mistakes, and when I and some of the other more experienced contractors say, hey, this is a big mistake and if you do this, you get the exact opposite of what you want, there's a lot of, WE are in charge.
Yes, you are, and aren't you the ones complaining that you don't understand why profits have tanked?
And when you get sandboxed by Google for doing idiotic shit, for doing shit after you were warned not to do it, you seriously can't understand why this is a problem?
The new middle men are sending some of the other contractors my way for help, which would be fine, if I was getting any sort of income from it.
If anything, showing them how to do things the right way means even less assignments coming my way.
I had a stellar week income wise last week (the best since the merger), and instead of giving me any sort of monetary bonus (which had been customary with the former owner), I get an email with "good job".
O rly?
I had been putting serious feelers out for the last month, and got a lot of, we'll keep you in mind, love your work but not looking for new contractors, etc.
But, one of the places has just decided to contract me!
I have one more hurdle, but a firm start date.
This place has a very good reputation, and is a perfect match for my skills.
It pays slightly more than I make now, just have to see if it's steady enough to make it my main place.
Wish me luck :)
Although my credit card debt has not gone down, my other debt, such as student loans, have.
Oddly, I'm proud it didn't go up, because the buy out of my former good paying contracting company has been horrendous.
For what little work there is, I've been paid, but there simply isn't enough to feed everyone.
It's extremely frustrating, as I can see what the new people are doing wrong, lots of beginner mistakes, and when I and some of the other more experienced contractors say, hey, this is a big mistake and if you do this, you get the exact opposite of what you want, there's a lot of, WE are in charge.
Yes, you are, and aren't you the ones complaining that you don't understand why profits have tanked?
And when you get sandboxed by Google for doing idiotic shit, for doing shit after you were warned not to do it, you seriously can't understand why this is a problem?
The new middle men are sending some of the other contractors my way for help, which would be fine, if I was getting any sort of income from it.
If anything, showing them how to do things the right way means even less assignments coming my way.
I had a stellar week income wise last week (the best since the merger), and instead of giving me any sort of monetary bonus (which had been customary with the former owner), I get an email with "good job".
O rly?
I had been putting serious feelers out for the last month, and got a lot of, we'll keep you in mind, love your work but not looking for new contractors, etc.
But, one of the places has just decided to contract me!
I have one more hurdle, but a firm start date.
This place has a very good reputation, and is a perfect match for my skills.
It pays slightly more than I make now, just have to see if it's steady enough to make it my main place.
Wish me luck :)
Monday, May 16, 2011
Menu Plan Monday
Monday: English Muffin Pizzas/Mac and Cheese
Tuesday: French Toast
Wednesday:Steak Fajitas
Thursday:Chicken Stir Fry
Friday:Just me, something easy.
Saturday: Cheese bread, salad, steak
Sunday: Mashed Potatoes, Chicken wings, not sure.
It's a crazy week, just want to have a blue print.
Tuesday: French Toast
Wednesday:Steak Fajitas
Thursday:Chicken Stir Fry
Friday:Just me, something easy.
Saturday: Cheese bread, salad, steak
Sunday: Mashed Potatoes, Chicken wings, not sure.
It's a crazy week, just want to have a blue print.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Menu Plan
Going to try to stay out of the food stores until next Friday.
Thursday: Buffalo chicken rice.
Friday: Should be only me, so leftovers or something light.
Saturday: Chicken for the lazy, roasted veggies.
Sunday: Leftover chicken, mashed potatoes.
Monday: Steak Fajitas with rice.
Tuesday: Beef and Broccoli
Wednesday: Spaghetti with Alfredo sauce, side salad.
Thursday: Steak/Mashed Potatoes
Friday: Food shopping so have to see.
I pretty much always serve some kind of salad on the side, and Rainman always has Mac and Cheese.
Credit Card Debt: $14,952.
Thursday: Buffalo chicken rice.
Friday: Should be only me, so leftovers or something light.
Saturday: Chicken for the lazy, roasted veggies.
Sunday: Leftover chicken, mashed potatoes.
Monday: Steak Fajitas with rice.
Tuesday: Beef and Broccoli
Wednesday: Spaghetti with Alfredo sauce, side salad.
Thursday: Steak/Mashed Potatoes
Friday: Food shopping so have to see.
I pretty much always serve some kind of salad on the side, and Rainman always has Mac and Cheese.
Credit Card Debt: $14,952.
Frugal Kitchen Tools
Penny has an interesting post up about frugal kitchen tools.
I cook.
A lot.
Bake, stir fry, roast, whatever you want to call it, I do it.
I am not the most frugal food shopper, and it is something I am working on, but I suppose my costs would be even higher if I didn't have my frugal kitchen tools.
In no particular frugal order, here are my favorite frugal kitchen tools:
KitchenAid Mixer : Man, I love this thing. It makes mixing everything from potatoes to cakes to muffins to cheesecake so easy. I also use it to keep Rainman busy (loves to follow recipes), but this is definitely my toy.
Dutch Oven: I got mine at BJ's Wholesale for under $40, right around the time I became one of Dorie Greenspan's disciples (her chicken for the lazy is amazing), and I use it constantly. Stick in a chicken, vegetables, on a bread bed, forget it, and your kitchen smells mouth watering. The finished product is even better. ;)
I have a few kept out of the way sharp knives, and I agree they are indispensable, but I picked mine up at Marshall's, TJ Maxx, or BJ's.
And I won one at Eat At Home Cooks.
There are two things I am keeping an eye out for, when I see a good sale/price.
One is a pressure cooker.
Not sure where my fear of pressure cooker comes from (almost as irrational as my fear of clowns), but I've always shied away from them.
Ice Cream Maker: This is something I really would like to get before summer. This is a want, not a need obviously, but I see this as fractionally money saving but definitely better nutritionally (I can control what goes in, as well as what doesn't).
I love to get a glimpse into others kitchens, so please comment :)
I cook.
A lot.
Bake, stir fry, roast, whatever you want to call it, I do it.
I am not the most frugal food shopper, and it is something I am working on, but I suppose my costs would be even higher if I didn't have my frugal kitchen tools.
In no particular frugal order, here are my favorite frugal kitchen tools:
KitchenAid Mixer : Man, I love this thing. It makes mixing everything from potatoes to cakes to muffins to cheesecake so easy. I also use it to keep Rainman busy (loves to follow recipes), but this is definitely my toy.
Dutch Oven: I got mine at BJ's Wholesale for under $40, right around the time I became one of Dorie Greenspan's disciples (her chicken for the lazy is amazing), and I use it constantly. Stick in a chicken, vegetables, on a bread bed, forget it, and your kitchen smells mouth watering. The finished product is even better. ;)
I have a few kept out of the way sharp knives, and I agree they are indispensable, but I picked mine up at Marshall's, TJ Maxx, or BJ's.
And I won one at Eat At Home Cooks.
There are two things I am keeping an eye out for, when I see a good sale/price.
One is a pressure cooker.
Not sure where my fear of pressure cooker comes from (almost as irrational as my fear of clowns), but I've always shied away from them.
Ice Cream Maker: This is something I really would like to get before summer. This is a want, not a need obviously, but I see this as fractionally money saving but definitely better nutritionally (I can control what goes in, as well as what doesn't).
I love to get a glimpse into others kitchens, so please comment :)
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Back in the saddle.
Been missing in action, but had one of those periods where I put in a ton of effort and am only starting to see results now.
The past few months since my last post where filled with uncertainty, with me not adding debt, but no real income coming in from what had been my steady pay.
I worked on another source, and it helped immensely, but it's still not what I was bringing in.
That needs to change.
Also, between ER visits for two of the offspring (concussion, fractured ribs, deep cut to toe with ear infection) and the fact that everyone has a deep hacking cough that is viral as opposed to bacterial, it sucks to be me right now.
Tomorrow, at least three of the offspring will be home, including Rainman, which makes it next to impossible to get real work done.
And, I definitely see yet another doctor's visit tomorrow, looks like conjunctivitis is in the house.
But, new month and all, and here we go.
I need to get back to meal planning, but right now, it's eat what stays down.
The Saved Quarter Challenge:
Credit card debt: 14952.
Goal by June:13500.
Retirement: $650 (Random, but I have an account that is specifically earmarked, and that's what I made from it and will get a deposit within a week or so).
Goal to be made this month for June:$1000.
I also will attempt $45 toward Xmas, and $50 savings per week.
Feels good to have a goal again :)
The past few months since my last post where filled with uncertainty, with me not adding debt, but no real income coming in from what had been my steady pay.
I worked on another source, and it helped immensely, but it's still not what I was bringing in.
That needs to change.
Also, between ER visits for two of the offspring (concussion, fractured ribs, deep cut to toe with ear infection) and the fact that everyone has a deep hacking cough that is viral as opposed to bacterial, it sucks to be me right now.
Tomorrow, at least three of the offspring will be home, including Rainman, which makes it next to impossible to get real work done.
And, I definitely see yet another doctor's visit tomorrow, looks like conjunctivitis is in the house.
But, new month and all, and here we go.
I need to get back to meal planning, but right now, it's eat what stays down.
The Saved Quarter Challenge:
Credit card debt: 14952.
Goal by June:13500.
Retirement: $650 (Random, but I have an account that is specifically earmarked, and that's what I made from it and will get a deposit within a week or so).
Goal to be made this month for June:$1000.
I also will attempt $45 toward Xmas, and $50 savings per week.
Feels good to have a goal again :)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Money Musings
It's a marathon, not a race.
My mantra this month.
The one lesson I've learned in paying down credit card debt is that it is so much more than just paying the balance.
I throw money at it, and then interest kicks in, then it makes my payment halved, then I throw more at it, and it seems that the balance is getting smaller at less than a snail's pace.
Contrast this to how fast my money grows in savings (adding small amounts on auto-pilot equals a happy squeal when I do check the balance) and it makes me alternately mad at getting myself in debt, mixed with renewed determination to finally get it all paid off.
Add this to the uncertainty of payment from a formerly great source of revenue that has been slowly dying due to bad business decisions on the part of the owner, and the need to be debt free so that I am at no one's mercy (credit card lenders, student loan creditors, banks) is heavy on my mind.
On the upside, just got off the phone with the IRS, and will be getting a small check and a nice credit for overpayment.
Yes!
I know that I am making progress, if only because I'm not adding debt, and my credit card debt isn't my only debt, as I am making progress on my mortgage, student loans, car loan, etc.
And there's no way around it, four teenagers in a HCOL area equals big expenses.
Just keep swimming.
Credit Card: $15,535.
My mantra this month.
The one lesson I've learned in paying down credit card debt is that it is so much more than just paying the balance.
I throw money at it, and then interest kicks in, then it makes my payment halved, then I throw more at it, and it seems that the balance is getting smaller at less than a snail's pace.
Contrast this to how fast my money grows in savings (adding small amounts on auto-pilot equals a happy squeal when I do check the balance) and it makes me alternately mad at getting myself in debt, mixed with renewed determination to finally get it all paid off.
Add this to the uncertainty of payment from a formerly great source of revenue that has been slowly dying due to bad business decisions on the part of the owner, and the need to be debt free so that I am at no one's mercy (credit card lenders, student loan creditors, banks) is heavy on my mind.
On the upside, just got off the phone with the IRS, and will be getting a small check and a nice credit for overpayment.
Yes!
I know that I am making progress, if only because I'm not adding debt, and my credit card debt isn't my only debt, as I am making progress on my mortgage, student loans, car loan, etc.
And there's no way around it, four teenagers in a HCOL area equals big expenses.
Just keep swimming.
Credit Card: $15,535.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Food Hoarding
I was personal finance blog hopping, and came across an interesting personal finance blog "The Quest for $85,ooo".
On an older post, she wrote about overspending and food hoarding.
It never occurred to me that there was such a thing, but it really resonated.
There's a real problem in general society with food insecurity, and for those of us who've spent times without enough food, there's nothing like an overflowing pantry, fridge and cupboards filled to bursting with food.
And many personal finance bloggers recommend stockpiling groceries, but that's not in keeping with the way I'm shopping (fresh fruits and veggies).
But, I do end up throwing out a lot of spoiled food.
I always have fruits and veggies on hand, and I want that to continue, but I am definitely over buying.
With my small kitchen (which has a fridge and chest freezer), opening any kitchen door or cabinet pretty much guarantees food will jump out at you.
For the rest of February, I'm going to make a concerted effort to meal plan around what I already have.
Friday accountability:
Health Insurance paid today.
Still need to pay car ins, mortgage, and aiming for the $400.
Waiting for deposits to clear before I can pay the above.
Credit card debt: $15,465.
$100 to E*Trade.
Goal: $100 week for food.
On an older post, she wrote about overspending and food hoarding.
It never occurred to me that there was such a thing, but it really resonated.
There's a real problem in general society with food insecurity, and for those of us who've spent times without enough food, there's nothing like an overflowing pantry, fridge and cupboards filled to bursting with food.
And many personal finance bloggers recommend stockpiling groceries, but that's not in keeping with the way I'm shopping (fresh fruits and veggies).
But, I do end up throwing out a lot of spoiled food.
I always have fruits and veggies on hand, and I want that to continue, but I am definitely over buying.
With my small kitchen (which has a fridge and chest freezer), opening any kitchen door or cabinet pretty much guarantees food will jump out at you.
For the rest of February, I'm going to make a concerted effort to meal plan around what I already have.
Friday accountability:
Health Insurance paid today.
Still need to pay car ins, mortgage, and aiming for the $400.
Waiting for deposits to clear before I can pay the above.
Credit card debt: $15,465.
$100 to E*Trade.
Goal: $100 week for food.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Christmas 2011 Challenge
What can I say?
I love challenges!
Sharon posted that she's joining Penny from The Saved Quarter Challenge in making a goal for Christmas, as well as gifts through the year.
I was a little hesitant to join in, because Penny had a $100 goal, and that would set me up for failure (she has littles, I have older teens).
My goal is $1000 total.
I am hoping to shave my out of pocket cash by utilizing swagbucks, and deals.
And, to pick up gifts through the year, on sale.
This is fun, and so much better than going insane at the end of the year during Christmas madness.
I love challenges!
Sharon posted that she's joining Penny from The Saved Quarter Challenge in making a goal for Christmas, as well as gifts through the year.
I was a little hesitant to join in, because Penny had a $100 goal, and that would set me up for failure (she has littles, I have older teens).
My goal is $1000 total.
I am hoping to shave my out of pocket cash by utilizing swagbucks, and deals.
And, to pick up gifts through the year, on sale.
This is fun, and so much better than going insane at the end of the year during Christmas madness.
Monday, January 31, 2011
The Saved Quarter Challenge Monthly Update
Hello to all my fellow Saved Quarter Challenge getting out of debt peeps.
My goal is to get on autopilot with my savings and debt repayment.
Oddly, the savings part is coming easier than the debt repayment part.
Transferred $100 to my IRA, and will deposit Bathboy's $45 paycheck (I cash it for him, giving him half and putting the other half into a savings account for him, then deposit the paper check for myself) into my semi Xmas fund.
I only put $300 toward credit card debt (this week), and increased the total owed after paying my IRS screw up from last year.
Overall, this is how it looks for the first month of The Saved Quarter Challenge:
Started January with $16,600.
Now $15,711.
Credit Score was 671.
Now 678.
$300 toward retirement.
$200 toward Xmas fund.
Overall, this month was ok, and would have been great if not for the IRS mix up.
I need to keep my eyes on eliminating the credit card debt, as once that's gone, so much cash flow will be freed up.
Anyone else rocking The Saved Quarter Challenge?
Great Blog: Gail Vaz Oxlade
My goal is to get on autopilot with my savings and debt repayment.
Oddly, the savings part is coming easier than the debt repayment part.
Transferred $100 to my IRA, and will deposit Bathboy's $45 paycheck (I cash it for him, giving him half and putting the other half into a savings account for him, then deposit the paper check for myself) into my semi Xmas fund.
I only put $300 toward credit card debt (this week), and increased the total owed after paying my IRS screw up from last year.
Overall, this is how it looks for the first month of The Saved Quarter Challenge:
Started January with $16,600.
Now $15,711.
Credit Score was 671.
Now 678.
$300 toward retirement.
$200 toward Xmas fund.
Overall, this month was ok, and would have been great if not for the IRS mix up.
I need to keep my eyes on eliminating the credit card debt, as once that's gone, so much cash flow will be freed up.
Anyone else rocking The Saved Quarter Challenge?
Great Blog: Gail Vaz Oxlade
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
IRS
Finally, they took my payment.
Confirmation of Payment
Confirmation of Payment
Below is your confirmation for this payment. Please print this page using your browser's print function.
Be sure to write down your confirmation number for future reference.
 | Confirmation Information |  | ||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||
Now, to pay it off :)
Monday, January 24, 2011
Menu Planning Monday
Some meals from last week got moved to this week.
The joy of snow days and hectic schedules.
Monday: Angel Hair Pasta, Red Sauce, Meatballs, sub rolls, salad (used up the last in the fridge).
Tuesday: Chicken Fried Rice Stir Fry.
Wednesday: Pork Chops, Salad, Au Gratin Potatoes
Thursday:Baked Ziti (this is Rainman dependent, if he requests it we have it, if not, we shall see, because I have ricotta cheese I really need to use up).
Friday: Soup/Salad (most likely just me).
Saturday: BLTs
Sunday: Fend for yourself
I have all of the ingredients in the pantry, except for salad, which I'll pick up later in the week.
I took the advice of Penny at The Saved Quarter, and called Visa.
They dropped my interest rate 4 points, which isn't great, but it's almost paid off, and it's better than nothing :)
Especially when work is deader than dead.
Credit Card Debt: $14,339
Great Blog: Eat At Home Cooks
The joy of snow days and hectic schedules.
Monday: Angel Hair Pasta, Red Sauce, Meatballs, sub rolls, salad (used up the last in the fridge).
Tuesday: Chicken Fried Rice Stir Fry.
Wednesday: Pork Chops, Salad, Au Gratin Potatoes
Thursday:Baked Ziti (this is Rainman dependent, if he requests it we have it, if not, we shall see, because I have ricotta cheese I really need to use up).
Friday: Soup/Salad (most likely just me).
Saturday: BLTs
Sunday: Fend for yourself
I have all of the ingredients in the pantry, except for salad, which I'll pick up later in the week.
I took the advice of Penny at The Saved Quarter, and called Visa.
They dropped my interest rate 4 points, which isn't great, but it's almost paid off, and it's better than nothing :)
Especially when work is deader than dead.
Credit Card Debt: $14,339
Great Blog: Eat At Home Cooks
Friday, January 21, 2011
Debt Progess
Just keep swimming, just keep swimming.
I find myself saying that quite often, these days.
Especially like today, snow day, stay home from school day for everyone but Rainman, who wants to simply drive for hours to stave off the no school tantrum.
I really have no idea how he's going to handle not going to school every day when he ages out in three years.
Got a surprise child support payment (my younger two's father rarely pays child support), and put that toward Visa.
Not a great week income wise, but that's where the swimming part comes in.
Paid myself $100 into E*Trade first thing ( as suggested by Penny at The Saved Quarter Challenge) and while it's not painless, it's the only way I save.
Going to bite the bullet, and as Grace at Thrifty Cheapskate suggested, just pay state taxes and use the mistaken federal tax payment towards 2010 federal.
This sucks, because it's $1400, and since it's not planned for/budgeted, there's really nowhere to take it from, so will put it on Visa.
And I was getting so close to snowballing the Visa debt off.
Other random bills:cell, student loan, and DunkinDonuts recharge (don't judge me, keeps me sane).
Credit Card Debt: $14,339.
I find myself saying that quite often, these days.
Especially like today, snow day, stay home from school day for everyone but Rainman, who wants to simply drive for hours to stave off the no school tantrum.
I really have no idea how he's going to handle not going to school every day when he ages out in three years.
Got a surprise child support payment (my younger two's father rarely pays child support), and put that toward Visa.
Not a great week income wise, but that's where the swimming part comes in.
Paid myself $100 into E*Trade first thing ( as suggested by Penny at The Saved Quarter Challenge) and while it's not painless, it's the only way I save.
Going to bite the bullet, and as Grace at Thrifty Cheapskate suggested, just pay state taxes and use the mistaken federal tax payment towards 2010 federal.
This sucks, because it's $1400, and since it's not planned for/budgeted, there's really nowhere to take it from, so will put it on Visa.
And I was getting so close to snowballing the Visa debt off.
Other random bills:cell, student loan, and DunkinDonuts recharge (don't judge me, keeps me sane).
Credit Card Debt: $14,339.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Meal Planning Monday
Monday: Corned Beef and Cabbage in the crockpot(Rainman Mac and Cheese)
Tuesday: Chicken for the Lazy, mashed potatoes/salad (because someone took out a roaster from the big freezer *shakes fist*)
Wednesday: Leftover chicken and Coconut Rice (depending on how many are home)
Thursday: Baked Ziti/Garlic Bread
Friday: Thai Peanut Noodles
Saturday: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Sunday:Leftovers- fend for yourself.
Paid the monthly car loan plus principal.
Paid myself first, as suggested by the Saved Quarter Challenge.
On track pretty much otherwise.
Still debating the fund fully 2010 IRA vs get rid of the Visa debt.
:)
Great Blog: Single Mom Rich Mom
Tuesday: Chicken for the Lazy, mashed potatoes/salad (because someone took out a roaster from the big freezer *shakes fist*)
Wednesday: Leftover chicken and Coconut Rice (depending on how many are home)
Thursday: Baked Ziti/Garlic Bread
Friday: Thai Peanut Noodles
Saturday: Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Sunday:Leftovers- fend for yourself.
Paid the monthly car loan plus principal.
Paid myself first, as suggested by the Saved Quarter Challenge.
On track pretty much otherwise.
Still debating the fund fully 2010 IRA vs get rid of the Visa debt.
:)
Great Blog: Single Mom Rich Mom
Money Progress
It's still January, and I need a carrot to go with the stick of paying off credit card debt.
$4190. is the balance I have left on my Visa, and once that is paid off, I plan on transferring my remaining Discover debt to Visa, and get 0% interest until it's gone.
What I am still up in the air about is whether to get this debt monkey off my back as fast as possible, to the detriment of my retirement savings this year, or taking a month or so off and finish off my Roth IRA for 2010.
Back to the $4190.
To stave off debt fatigue, as soon as I pay off my Visa, I am going to allow myself a reward in the form of TurboFire Deluxe.
Going over my prior year's tax payments, I some how managed to pay Federal tax that was supposed to go to State, and getting the payment amount credited to the right place is apparently impossible.
Going to try one more time Tuesday or Wednesday, and if no one can help then going to say screw it and just pay State tax outright and then use the Federal payment overage to what I may owe this go round.
Paid Sallie Mae.
$100 E*Trade Roth IRA
Still need to pay my car loan, most likely tomorrow.
Credit Card Debt: $14,642.
Great Blog: Violent Acres
$4190. is the balance I have left on my Visa, and once that is paid off, I plan on transferring my remaining Discover debt to Visa, and get 0% interest until it's gone.
What I am still up in the air about is whether to get this debt monkey off my back as fast as possible, to the detriment of my retirement savings this year, or taking a month or so off and finish off my Roth IRA for 2010.
Back to the $4190.
To stave off debt fatigue, as soon as I pay off my Visa, I am going to allow myself a reward in the form of TurboFire Deluxe.
Going over my prior year's tax payments, I some how managed to pay Federal tax that was supposed to go to State, and getting the payment amount credited to the right place is apparently impossible.
Going to try one more time Tuesday or Wednesday, and if no one can help then going to say screw it and just pay State tax outright and then use the Federal payment overage to what I may owe this go round.
Paid Sallie Mae.
$100 E*Trade Roth IRA
Still need to pay my car loan, most likely tomorrow.
Credit Card Debt: $14,642.
Great Blog: Violent Acres
Credit Card Debt Update
Snow days are really interfering with my Saved Quarter Challenge mojo.
No school today, and late starts tomorrow leave me drained from keeping Rainman entertained while doing the Mommy Taxi thing for the others.
Just no time to do more work than "get by" stuff.
"Get by" does not make my bank account happy.
Since I paid the mortgage and a student loan (2 others are due next week as well as my car loan this Friday), I am not going to beat myself up about not throwing more money at the credit card debt on Friday, but counting what I paid Monday as my Saved Quarter Challenge goal met.
I still need to meet my pay myself first savings goal on Friday, and see what bills are left for the rest of January.
I also would like to incorporate menu planning, as other Mommy Bloggers swear by it for lowering grocery bills.
Great Blog: Budget Bytes
Credit Card Debt: $14,642.
No school today, and late starts tomorrow leave me drained from keeping Rainman entertained while doing the Mommy Taxi thing for the others.
Just no time to do more work than "get by" stuff.
"Get by" does not make my bank account happy.
Since I paid the mortgage and a student loan (2 others are due next week as well as my car loan this Friday), I am not going to beat myself up about not throwing more money at the credit card debt on Friday, but counting what I paid Monday as my Saved Quarter Challenge goal met.
I still need to meet my pay myself first savings goal on Friday, and see what bills are left for the rest of January.
I also would like to incorporate menu planning, as other Mommy Bloggers swear by it for lowering grocery bills.
Great Blog: Budget Bytes
Credit Card Debt: $14,642.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Saved Quarter Challenge
Deposit came this morning, and out of that, put $620 toward CC debt.
On The Saved Quarter, there is a very timely post about paying yourself first.
I have in the past put this in play, and intellectually I know it works.
My savings will be on hold until I get my credit card debt paid off, but I still need a cushion, bigger than what I have on hand now.
My Saved Quarter Challenge Goal from now until I pay off my credit card debt will be to put away $50 to E*Trade each Friday.
I need this credit card debt gone so bad I can taste it.
Great Blog: Graceful Retirement
Credit Card Debt: $15,170.
On my nightstand: Dirty Secret by Jessie Sholl
On The Saved Quarter, there is a very timely post about paying yourself first.
I have in the past put this in play, and intellectually I know it works.
My savings will be on hold until I get my credit card debt paid off, but I still need a cushion, bigger than what I have on hand now.
My Saved Quarter Challenge Goal from now until I pay off my credit card debt will be to put away $50 to E*Trade each Friday.
I need this credit card debt gone so bad I can taste it.
Great Blog: Graceful Retirement
Credit Card Debt: $15,170.
On my nightstand: Dirty Secret by Jessie Sholl
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Snowballing Snowflaking Debt
Sounds vaguely obscene, doesn't it?
If it's not clear, being self employed, my income is extremely variable.
At the beginning of the month, certain deposits are scheduled to come in, with others schedule through the month.
As any self employed person knows, never count on money until it's actually in your hand/direct deposited in your bank account.
Got a $250 deposit, and put that right toward credit card debt.
Yay me!
Looking at other personal finance blogs today, there seems to be widely differing opinions on coupons.
I spend way too much on food, and when I read "I spent $25 for a whole week's worth of food with coupons!" entries on Mommy bloggers blogs, I cringe to post what I spend on food.
Part of my problem is, four teenagers simply eat massive amounts of food.
With three of those teens being boys, they inhale food.
Two of the males have sensory issues, and meal time is a minefield no matter what.
My daughter eats like a bird, but she goes through veggies like it's her job.
The other issue I have is- I love to cook.
Not the "what's for dinner" type of cooking, but trying new recipes a la Dorie Greenspan.
I'm not willing ( and am lucky to be in a position to not have to, although seeing my debt others may disagree) cut down on buying fresh fruits and vegetables, but I do need to knock off the convenience junk food.
My compromise is buying most of my fresh foods at BJ's Wholesale Club, and picking up loss leaders according to the grocery flyers.
BJ's does accept coupons, but it really depends on the cashier's knowledge of BJ's coupon policy, and after a few bad experiences with coupons, I have been lazy about match ups.
Also, BJ's generic products (for which there are no coupons), so far have been equal to the name brand toilet paper, shampoo, deli products, and baking goods that I usually buy.
I really need to add "use coupons wisely" to my New Year's resolutions. :)
Great Blog I just found: Broke Foodie
Credit card debt: $15,420.
If it's not clear, being self employed, my income is extremely variable.
At the beginning of the month, certain deposits are scheduled to come in, with others schedule through the month.
As any self employed person knows, never count on money until it's actually in your hand/direct deposited in your bank account.
Got a $250 deposit, and put that right toward credit card debt.
Yay me!
Looking at other personal finance blogs today, there seems to be widely differing opinions on coupons.
I spend way too much on food, and when I read "I spent $25 for a whole week's worth of food with coupons!" entries on Mommy bloggers blogs, I cringe to post what I spend on food.
Part of my problem is, four teenagers simply eat massive amounts of food.
With three of those teens being boys, they inhale food.
Two of the males have sensory issues, and meal time is a minefield no matter what.
My daughter eats like a bird, but she goes through veggies like it's her job.
The other issue I have is- I love to cook.
Not the "what's for dinner" type of cooking, but trying new recipes a la Dorie Greenspan.
I'm not willing ( and am lucky to be in a position to not have to, although seeing my debt others may disagree) cut down on buying fresh fruits and vegetables, but I do need to knock off the convenience junk food.
My compromise is buying most of my fresh foods at BJ's Wholesale Club, and picking up loss leaders according to the grocery flyers.
BJ's does accept coupons, but it really depends on the cashier's knowledge of BJ's coupon policy, and after a few bad experiences with coupons, I have been lazy about match ups.
Also, BJ's generic products (for which there are no coupons), so far have been equal to the name brand toilet paper, shampoo, deli products, and baking goods that I usually buy.
I really need to add "use coupons wisely" to my New Year's resolutions. :)
Great Blog I just found: Broke Foodie
Credit card debt: $15,420.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Saved Quarter Challenge First Week.
Still waiting on some deposits, which were supposed to come today but nothing as of yet.
Out of the one that did come, paid health insurance and my Saved Quarter Challenge Goal.
I need a new printer (after Rainman did the Hulk Smash on my other one), and will try to pick one up this weekend.
Other planned spending will be jeans/sweatpants for Bathboy, who desperately needs longer ones (teen age growth spurts kill me), and cashing his paycheck, which I will then deposit into my Credit Union Savings Account for next Xmas (only $45 from his one shift a week, but my plan is to use it for Xmas/birthday gifts over the year).
Saved Quarter Challenge: $400/$400 done.
Off to a great start!
Out of the one that did come, paid health insurance and my Saved Quarter Challenge Goal.
I need a new printer (after Rainman did the Hulk Smash on my other one), and will try to pick one up this weekend.
Other planned spending will be jeans/sweatpants for Bathboy, who desperately needs longer ones (teen age growth spurts kill me), and cashing his paycheck, which I will then deposit into my Credit Union Savings Account for next Xmas (only $45 from his one shift a week, but my plan is to use it for Xmas/birthday gifts over the year).
Saved Quarter Challenge: $400/$400 done.
Off to a great start!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Stressed
Why does when one stressful thing happen, it seems like the floodgates open?
I did pretty well on the food budget, but ended up spending way more than I wanted to on things that could definitely be classified as wants.
Roughly $100 toward food, but on last minute school supplies for my youngest's major project, sneakers for me, and stuff I used to stockpile with coupons but have been buying, skewed my other spending to $150 more, all spent yesterday.
And today, after having one of the twin's home all day unexpectedly, and the other a planned half day which is always stressful, my eating is way up.
And, I need to exercise.
Didn't do anything at all today, and I know the less I move, the more stressed I get, and there goes the eating.
Planned spending today was car insurance, and the planned kid lunch spending.
Still hoping to make my planned $400 toward CC debt on Friday.
Wish me luck.
I did pretty well on the food budget, but ended up spending way more than I wanted to on things that could definitely be classified as wants.
Roughly $100 toward food, but on last minute school supplies for my youngest's major project, sneakers for me, and stuff I used to stockpile with coupons but have been buying, skewed my other spending to $150 more, all spent yesterday.
And today, after having one of the twin's home all day unexpectedly, and the other a planned half day which is always stressful, my eating is way up.
And, I need to exercise.
Didn't do anything at all today, and I know the less I move, the more stressed I get, and there goes the eating.
Planned spending today was car insurance, and the planned kid lunch spending.
Still hoping to make my planned $400 toward CC debt on Friday.
Wish me luck.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Saved Quarter Challenge
The Saved Quarter has a great challenge up.
1.Determine your objective.
My objective is financially, erase CC debt, and personally, lose a substantial amount of weight.
To erase it in one year, I need to channel roughly $400. per week toward CC debt.
Ouch.
Weight wise, I'm aiming for two pounds a week, but will be ok with one pound per week.
For that, I need a 1k per day calorie deficient.
That's really not too bad.
2. Specific, measurable goals.
Above and beyond my other bills, I need to channel $400 weekly toward debt.
(Duh)
For the 1k daily deficient, daily walk or DVD along with cutting calories as tracked by my BodyMedia.
3. List ways to make or save money toward goal.
For January, do a freezer challenge.
Still buying fruits and veggies, but eating through my huge chest freezer.
Bake from scratch.
Aim for $100 week food goal.
Overhaul P Affs, N accounts, goal 100 b's per week.
Off to market my little heart out!
1.Determine your objective.
My objective is financially, erase CC debt, and personally, lose a substantial amount of weight.
To erase it in one year, I need to channel roughly $400. per week toward CC debt.
Ouch.
Weight wise, I'm aiming for two pounds a week, but will be ok with one pound per week.
For that, I need a 1k per day calorie deficient.
That's really not too bad.
2. Specific, measurable goals.
Above and beyond my other bills, I need to channel $400 weekly toward debt.
(Duh)
For the 1k daily deficient, daily walk or DVD along with cutting calories as tracked by my BodyMedia.
3. List ways to make or save money toward goal.
For January, do a freezer challenge.
Still buying fruits and veggies, but eating through my huge chest freezer.
Bake from scratch.
Aim for $100 week food goal.
Overhaul P Affs, N accounts, goal 100 b's per week.
Off to market my little heart out!
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