Monday
Ryan - I have to admit a weakness of mine. When buying things, I prefer the expensive and/or the shinny cool thing over the cheap dull looking thing. For example, On Christmas Eve, I had to buy a new mouse for my work computer, because we had accidentally washed the other one and then I broke it trying to fix the wheel. Anyways, I found the exact model of the one I use to have, and then I saw a cheaper one that pretty much did the same thing as the one I use to have. Well at first I pretended not to notice it (i.e. ignored it) and proceeded to get the one that I thought was cool looking. Then but I knew I was being materialistic and I thought of our goal and said, I can't, so I picked the cheaper one. Of course I felt disappointed, but It was the right choice. These are the things I need to fight. This will be a big savings if I can master this impulse.
Tuesday
Ryan - Well we didn't go shopping over the weekend and so selections were pretty slim. Luckily I made some pasta the night before and so I packed that for lunch. We were out of Oatmeal and had no milk for cereal, so I just guzzled a glass of OJ and took some snacks to tide me over til lunch.
Savings:
$6 (Cheaper mouse) + $6 (Lunch at work)
Total Savings: $3693.60
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Day 131
Ryan - Well we survived the hardest part (upto date) of our goal. It will fun to actually get Lizzy and neighbor's some gifts. Being Sunday, the family was still sick, so only I went to church and of course no spending too.
Day 130
Merry Christmas!!!!!!
Ryan - Well even if we wanted to, we couldn't spend money, because nothing is open. Whew.
We had fun Christmas with the Mullen family and Grandma Switzer. Of course it all centered around Gracie and her reactions to the her gifts.
Ryan - Well even if we wanted to, we couldn't spend money, because nothing is open. Whew.
We had fun Christmas with the Mullen family and Grandma Switzer. Of course it all centered around Gracie and her reactions to the her gifts.
Day 129
Ryan - Well, it was nice to have the "day" off. I had to do some side job work, but by 11:00, the Christmas celebration began. We spent the day getting things ready to spend the night at Grandma Mullen's. The party started around 5 pm and it didn't stop until midnight for some, and 4 am for others. Gracie made cookies for Santa. Since I could not buy a gift for Lizzy, I made her a coupon book full of "Honey Do's". We'll see if she likes it.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Day 128 (Wednesday)
Ryan - Lizzy hasn't written on the for quite some time. In all fairness though, our whole family has been really sick and just getting out of bed is a real chore. I've been coming to work this week, because I used all my vacation days. Thank goodness no one else is here, so I don't get them sick. Today, I finally broke down and bought some tissues w/lotion. My nose is raw, and toilet paper feels like sandpaper. I used all my bosses tissues while he's been out of the office, so I had to buy him a new box.
I knew this time of the season would be the hardest part of our goal, but I didn't think it would be for this reason. For the last 5-6 days, we have been getting gifts and treats from all our neighbors and friends. When we lived here last time, we didn't get any, so I was expecting this sort of outpouring of gifts. One of our neighbors got our kids big gifts. I don't know what to do, because we weren't planning on doing anything.
I knew this time of the season would be the hardest part of our goal, but I didn't think it would be for this reason. For the last 5-6 days, we have been getting gifts and treats from all our neighbors and friends. When we lived here last time, we didn't get any, so I was expecting this sort of outpouring of gifts. One of our neighbors got our kids big gifts. I don't know what to do, because we weren't planning on doing anything.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Days 121-127
Wednesday(December 15th) - Tuesday (December 21st)
Ryan - This just to make up for all the time that has past since last Tuesday. I will be more diligent in writing everyday. It's good to do this so we are constantly reminded of our goal and don't fall in to the trap of reverting back to some old habits with spending.
I did a stupid thing last night and tried to repair my computer mouse. Well some of the screws were hidden and hard to find and so I ended up breaking it. Since it's work property, I feel obligated to buy a new one and I don't have an extra one. I'll look online to see if there are any good deals.
Earlier this week we received a bunch of Christmas candy/gifts from our neighbors. I feel bad we can't spend money to get them anything. Perhaps we can do something else that doesn't cost money (i.e. service) or use some of our baking supplies to make cookies or something. It's just hard, because you don't want to explain why to each person, but you worry that you offend them by not returning the kind gesture.
Ryan - This just to make up for all the time that has past since last Tuesday. I will be more diligent in writing everyday. It's good to do this so we are constantly reminded of our goal and don't fall in to the trap of reverting back to some old habits with spending.
I did a stupid thing last night and tried to repair my computer mouse. Well some of the screws were hidden and hard to find and so I ended up breaking it. Since it's work property, I feel obligated to buy a new one and I don't have an extra one. I'll look online to see if there are any good deals.
Earlier this week we received a bunch of Christmas candy/gifts from our neighbors. I feel bad we can't spend money to get them anything. Perhaps we can do something else that doesn't cost money (i.e. service) or use some of our baking supplies to make cookies or something. It's just hard, because you don't want to explain why to each person, but you worry that you offend them by not returning the kind gesture.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
DAY 120
Lizzy -
Another busy day of cleaning, Gracie's school, watching the neighbors and working tonight at the day care. I finally called and scheduled my appointment with the building inspection place and the fire department. Another step closer to getting my license! Had no temptation to spend money today.
Another busy day of cleaning, Gracie's school, watching the neighbors and working tonight at the day care. I finally called and scheduled my appointment with the building inspection place and the fire department. Another step closer to getting my license! Had no temptation to spend money today.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Day 119
Monday
Ryan - Spent all day watching kids and getting some stuff done around the house. Watch our neighbors kid, or rather Gracie played with our neighbor for 4 hours. So I mainly took care of Jack and cleaned up after the kids. I do enjoy spending time with the kids. They are great.
Tonight we wanted to get out of the house, so we went to our neighbors to visit her after her hip surgery. Then we went to Becky's to let the kids to play. Now we are going to watch Harry Potter.
When we got home a ward member left us some Christmas treats for some work I did for her. It was very nice and the world should work more like this. Doing service for one another.
Lizzy - Ah yes notice the first words from Ryan "watched the kids all day". So where was I you ask? Well let me tell you. Woke up at 7 to go to work and actually enjoyed it without the kids there. Then went to get my hair colored....huh? did I just say that? YES I DID. No it wasn't free but no I didn't pay for it. Another Christmas gift $ to the salon. I told them I couldn't spend more than the gift money so to only use it for a few touch ups with the blond however I got the most amazing girl who said "Oh I have no other clients today and its been very slow so if you want I will just do your whole head. Is that POSSIBLE?! It was. Then the next bonus was once we decided I was going to go dark all over she brought up my eyebrow situation. She asked her friend who was there chatting with us since she had no clients if she wouldn't mind coloring and waxing the brows. I was very reluctant at first since I have never done this nor am I sure coloring my brows darker was a good idea. I then said I don't have enough $ to cover that and that I am strictly on the gift budget. So MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME... she said she would do it free since it was my first time. So I got taken back to the spa area where the waterfalls were and the music was playing and I was pampered. Lucky was not even close to describing it.
So I love the new color and think I may stay here a while. Well....hahaha I will HAVE to stay here a while regardless till this $ saving gig is over with! I was pressured to buy their hair care product package of $15 and told it would keep my color lasting longer. Easily would have taken that home with me. But alas I will use my cheap Sams Club bulk size shampoo to get the job done. Will have to deal with fading color and turning into a carrot head..oh well.
So then from there I went straight to pick up the boys from school (and boys I mean the ones I am now tending) Spent 1-2 hours with them then came home. And from there Ryan explained the rest of our night.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Hair Package
COST: $15
Ryan - Spent all day watching kids and getting some stuff done around the house. Watch our neighbors kid, or rather Gracie played with our neighbor for 4 hours. So I mainly took care of Jack and cleaned up after the kids. I do enjoy spending time with the kids. They are great.
Tonight we wanted to get out of the house, so we went to our neighbors to visit her after her hip surgery. Then we went to Becky's to let the kids to play. Now we are going to watch Harry Potter.
When we got home a ward member left us some Christmas treats for some work I did for her. It was very nice and the world should work more like this. Doing service for one another.
Lizzy - Ah yes notice the first words from Ryan "watched the kids all day". So where was I you ask? Well let me tell you. Woke up at 7 to go to work and actually enjoyed it without the kids there. Then went to get my hair colored....huh? did I just say that? YES I DID. No it wasn't free but no I didn't pay for it. Another Christmas gift $ to the salon. I told them I couldn't spend more than the gift money so to only use it for a few touch ups with the blond however I got the most amazing girl who said "Oh I have no other clients today and its been very slow so if you want I will just do your whole head. Is that POSSIBLE?! It was. Then the next bonus was once we decided I was going to go dark all over she brought up my eyebrow situation. She asked her friend who was there chatting with us since she had no clients if she wouldn't mind coloring and waxing the brows. I was very reluctant at first since I have never done this nor am I sure coloring my brows darker was a good idea. I then said I don't have enough $ to cover that and that I am strictly on the gift budget. So MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ME... she said she would do it free since it was my first time. So I got taken back to the spa area where the waterfalls were and the music was playing and I was pampered. Lucky was not even close to describing it.
 |
| GOING TO THE DARK SIDE! |
So then from there I went straight to pick up the boys from school (and boys I mean the ones I am now tending) Spent 1-2 hours with them then came home. And from there Ryan explained the rest of our night.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Hair Package
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3681.30
Saturday, December 11, 2010
DAYS 114-117
Lizzy -
Ok this week has been busy. I am still working lots on getting my checklist done for my Business License. Its a bit stressful and is taking its toll. But once I get things set up it wont be that hard or time consuming. I just feel like I am off schedule with life and need to get back on track. So lets get updated.
WEDNESDAY was Gracie Christmas Preschool Program. VERY cute. We had to bring 6 cookies so we pulled out the flour and sugar and made our own sugar cookies. Normally we would have just gone and done the store bought. We didn't have frosting but I found his green and purple icing for writing and made trees on them. Kinda cheesy looking but it worked. Gracie sat front and center and was amazing. I never knew she could sing and dance so well Usually she is very shy in crowds but I think once she saw her friends and teacher she felt in place. Then went to Grandmas for cocoa.
Ryan - Was fun watching Gracie in her first program ever. I was proud of her. We went back to Becky's for hot chocolate.
THURSDAY Gracie had a friend over all day and played. I tried cleaning and organizing the house. Tonight we went to our Ward Christmas party for dinner and a program. Again Gracie whipped out her dancing when the music started. The food was good and it was fun visiting people. And another free night
Ryan - Not totally free. I did make mash potatoes.
FRIDAY Jack wasnt feeling that well last night so I stayed home from work today. I sent Gracie to the neighbors to play and she was there most of the day. I took some time while Jack was asleep and found a raisin bread recipe. We have had this bag if raisins for a while and I didn't want them to go to waist. Then Ryan came home and we did our grocery shopping. We did not get very much so we didn't want to make Sat a big day.
Ryan - It was nice to come home today. I was starving. It will be nice to have a long weekend. Taking Monday off.
SATURDAY Lazy day. Spent most of the day just playing with the kids and visiting the Grandparents. We are now just watching movies and on the computer. No extra money spent today although I think I am getting ancy (sp?) to just go out to eat or take the kids to the Gateway or something. We had lots of evening to kill so I am sure $20 would have been spent going somewhere today. If not today than at least sometime this weekend.
Ryan - Worked on a side job. Need to send off invoice.
Ok this week has been busy. I am still working lots on getting my checklist done for my Business License. Its a bit stressful and is taking its toll. But once I get things set up it wont be that hard or time consuming. I just feel like I am off schedule with life and need to get back on track. So lets get updated.
WEDNESDAY was Gracie Christmas Preschool Program. VERY cute. We had to bring 6 cookies so we pulled out the flour and sugar and made our own sugar cookies. Normally we would have just gone and done the store bought. We didn't have frosting but I found his green and purple icing for writing and made trees on them. Kinda cheesy looking but it worked. Gracie sat front and center and was amazing. I never knew she could sing and dance so well Usually she is very shy in crowds but I think once she saw her friends and teacher she felt in place. Then went to Grandmas for cocoa.Ryan - Was fun watching Gracie in her first program ever. I was proud of her. We went back to Becky's for hot chocolate.
THURSDAY Gracie had a friend over all day and played. I tried cleaning and organizing the house. Tonight we went to our Ward Christmas party for dinner and a program. Again Gracie whipped out her dancing when the music started. The food was good and it was fun visiting people. And another free nightRyan - Not totally free. I did make mash potatoes.
FRIDAY Jack wasnt feeling that well last night so I stayed home from work today. I sent Gracie to the neighbors to play and she was there most of the day. I took some time while Jack was asleep and found a raisin bread recipe. We have had this bag if raisins for a while and I didn't want them to go to waist. Then Ryan came home and we did our grocery shopping. We did not get very much so we didn't want to make Sat a big day.
Ryan - It was nice to come home today. I was starving. It will be nice to have a long weekend. Taking Monday off.
SATURDAY Lazy day. Spent most of the day just playing with the kids and visiting the Grandparents. We are now just watching movies and on the computer. No extra money spent today although I think I am getting ancy (sp?) to just go out to eat or take the kids to the Gateway or something. We had lots of evening to kill so I am sure $20 would have been spent going somewhere today. If not today than at least sometime this weekend.
Ryan - Worked on a side job. Need to send off invoice.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Gateway
COST: $20 TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3666.30
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
DAY 113
TUESDAY
Lizzy - Ooooh I am tired. Its been a long day. I have spent all day going over checklist after checklist of requirements to get my Business License. Its taking a lot out of me but I am really happy I'm doing it. I feel better having our house up to par for the inspections. But spending time on that made me neglect the house and for some reason it takes but one day for it to blow up around me. I have no energy to clean and no desire so I think I will just go to bed and rest. Have to open early tomorrow.
Ryan -
Nice time to spend with the family. Was going to work, but decided it wasn't necessary.
Ryan -
Nice time to spend with the family. Was going to work, but decided it wasn't necessary.
Monday, December 6, 2010
DAY 112
MONDAY
Lizzy - Tonight's activity was the Natural museum of History up at the U. I had heard they are free of charge on the 1st Monday of each month when we were living in Sugarhouse and I thought it would be fun to try. But forgot about it till my cousin sent an email with the info. (Thanks::) So we packed up and headed up there. Some friends joined us and we toured the place. VERY neat. I am sorry I haven't gone sooner. I would actually like to go up one day without the kids and take time to read the information. We then headed back to our friends to play games and have hot cocoa. Normal admission is $7 per adult and $3.50 for kids over 3. Then additional parking would have been about $2-3 on a normal day. However we showed up around 6 so parking was considered "after hours" and free at that point. We also concluded this would have been a fun night to just stop and have cocoa out on the town with our friends. And usually we never just get cocoa we always add fries or sandwich for the kids and then today Ryan had not eaten dinner so right there we would have added another $20 or so going out to eat.
So a $40 night ended up a $0 night:) And it was pretty fun:)
I also had to add a funny picture. As we were getting ready to go the kids were laughing and playing around and when I looked both were in my pots cupboard. Had to grab the camera and snap a shot.:)
Ryan - The thing about writing second is a I have to dig deep for thoughts write on this blog. It's been almos 4 month and we are still doing it. We haven't been perfect and we can even tighten things up, but I'm proud of our progress and overall mindset. We've avoided spending more than necessary and the blessing is when we've had unexpected cost come up (i.e. flooding of our toilet and car repair) we had the funds and didn't have to dip into our savings. I thing that's the big difference from the past. Lizzy and I have matured financially and to our surprise our kids haven't suffered as much as we thought (though they wouldn't know it, since they depend on us either way). I think the remaining time we can start refining our goal and look at minimizing cost even more without the big growing pains as when we first started. I think our groceries can be simplified to where we take eliminate the wants that we have been purchasing (i.e. snacks and desserts). Lizzy was reading an website on yahoo where a family tried to see how far their money could stretch to feed a family of four. I think we should implement this as soon as possible.
Lizzy - Tonight's activity was the Natural museum of History up at the U. I had heard they are free of charge on the 1st Monday of each month when we were living in Sugarhouse and I thought it would be fun to try. But forgot about it till my cousin sent an email with the info. (Thanks::) So we packed up and headed up there. Some friends joined us and we toured the place. VERY neat. I am sorry I haven't gone sooner. I would actually like to go up one day without the kids and take time to read the information. We then headed back to our friends to play games and have hot cocoa. Normal admission is $7 per adult and $3.50 for kids over 3. Then additional parking would have been about $2-3 on a normal day. However we showed up around 6 so parking was considered "after hours" and free at that point. We also concluded this would have been a fun night to just stop and have cocoa out on the town with our friends. And usually we never just get cocoa we always add fries or sandwich for the kids and then today Ryan had not eaten dinner so right there we would have added another $20 or so going out to eat.
So a $40 night ended up a $0 night:) And it was pretty fun:)
I also had to add a funny picture. As we were getting ready to go the kids were laughing and playing around and when I looked both were in my pots cupboard. Had to grab the camera and snap a shot.:)
Ryan - The thing about writing second is a I have to dig deep for thoughts write on this blog. It's been almos 4 month and we are still doing it. We haven't been perfect and we can even tighten things up, but I'm proud of our progress and overall mindset. We've avoided spending more than necessary and the blessing is when we've had unexpected cost come up (i.e. flooding of our toilet and car repair) we had the funds and didn't have to dip into our savings. I thing that's the big difference from the past. Lizzy and I have matured financially and to our surprise our kids haven't suffered as much as we thought (though they wouldn't know it, since they depend on us either way). I think the remaining time we can start refining our goal and look at minimizing cost even more without the big growing pains as when we first started. I think our groceries can be simplified to where we take eliminate the wants that we have been purchasing (i.e. snacks and desserts). Lizzy was reading an website on yahoo where a family tried to see how far their money could stretch to feed a family of four. I think we should implement this as soon as possible.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Tonight's Activity
COST: $40 TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3646.30
Saturday, December 4, 2010
DAY 110
SATURDAY
Lizzy
Today was awesome! So I went online and posted some old lamps that I wanted to sell. Instead of asking for money I asked if anyone had a hair dryer they wanted to trade instead. I got a call within 10 min of posting the add and a lady wanted to trade me. So she came with a really nice hair dryer. Funny thing. My mom gave me an early Christmas present 20 minutes before the lady showed up and got me a hair dryer. So the lady ended up giving me $20 which was pretty cool. I told my mom she could take the dryer back and get a refund but she said to just keep it. So had my mom not surprised me with my early xmas gift I would have been able to get that dryer after all. I am loving the KSL website. So far our Christmas lights and "would be" hair dryer came with no cost. Today's activity was going downtown to see the lights at Temple Square. Our first thought was parking cost. Which was easily solved once I looked in the glove compartment for our stash of parking passes to the gateway we bought 1.5 years ago and they never expire. When we were season pass holders to the Discovery Gateway downtown they let us buy parking passes for $1 a piece and I am not sure if there was a time limit on these. So I bought like 15 thinking I would be there more often and never was. We have kept these in the car and used them each time we go there. So far, Ryans free Jazz game he used one and now tonight we use it again. Also the TRAX is free if your traveling within the downtown area so that was also covered and of course the lights themselves no cost. Fun night and no money spent:)
Ryan - Okay today was really tiring. Spent the morning doing to little side jobs. One of them was ripping out a rotted out fence post. The next job was fixing some cabinets. Either way I wanted to sleep in since the Jazz game was really late last night Then we went out to Temple Square and you guessed it. Another work out for our arms. Jack wouldn't stay in his stroller for most of the night., but atleast we saved money. BTW the first foto is really cheezy (my smile).
Lizzy
Today was awesome! So I went online and posted some old lamps that I wanted to sell. Instead of asking for money I asked if anyone had a hair dryer they wanted to trade instead. I got a call within 10 min of posting the add and a lady wanted to trade me. So she came with a really nice hair dryer. Funny thing. My mom gave me an early Christmas present 20 minutes before the lady showed up and got me a hair dryer. So the lady ended up giving me $20 which was pretty cool. I told my mom she could take the dryer back and get a refund but she said to just keep it. So had my mom not surprised me with my early xmas gift I would have been able to get that dryer after all. I am loving the KSL website. So far our Christmas lights and "would be" hair dryer came with no cost. Today's activity was going downtown to see the lights at Temple Square. Our first thought was parking cost. Which was easily solved once I looked in the glove compartment for our stash of parking passes to the gateway we bought 1.5 years ago and they never expire. When we were season pass holders to the Discovery Gateway downtown they let us buy parking passes for $1 a piece and I am not sure if there was a time limit on these. So I bought like 15 thinking I would be there more often and never was. We have kept these in the car and used them each time we go there. So far, Ryans free Jazz game he used one and now tonight we use it again. Also the TRAX is free if your traveling within the downtown area so that was also covered and of course the lights themselves no cost. Fun night and no money spent:)
Ryan - Okay today was really tiring. Spent the morning doing to little side jobs. One of them was ripping out a rotted out fence post. The next job was fixing some cabinets. Either way I wanted to sleep in since the Jazz game was really late last night Then we went out to Temple Square and you guessed it. Another work out for our arms. Jack wouldn't stay in his stroller for most of the night., but atleast we saved money. BTW the first foto is really cheezy (my smile).
Friday, December 3, 2010
DAY 109
FRIDAY
Lizzy -
Not so much going on today. Just another work day and hanging around the house. I am REALLY tempted to go get that dang hair dyer again though. However I still have to continue to use other resources. I'll go online now and see if I can find another deal on KSL. I also posted pictures from Jack's birthday on the 15th of Nov and our night out at the Nativity. Oh and also...I go out this morning and look over at our snowman in the yard . I haven't noticed him in a while and was expecting to see something a little like this...
And instead I take a look over and......WHAT THE?????!!!!!
Somehow with the snow melting he got a uni-brow, a huge mole, his nose sunk in and some teeth are missing.
HAhahahaHAa oh this Snowman is what we consider "special" :) Then when I came home from work his head has completely fallen off, I thought about putting it back on but it may be best left on the ground:)
Ryan - First thing I did this morning was kick a snowman's head off :). Spent part of the evening doing a service project then came home and went to watch the Jazz game. So no money spent.
Lizzy -
Not so much going on today. Just another work day and hanging around the house. I am REALLY tempted to go get that dang hair dyer again though. However I still have to continue to use other resources. I'll go online now and see if I can find another deal on KSL. I also posted pictures from Jack's birthday on the 15th of Nov and our night out at the Nativity. Oh and also...I go out this morning and look over at our snowman in the yard . I haven't noticed him in a while and was expecting to see something a little like this...
And instead I take a look over and......WHAT THE?????!!!!!
HAhahahaHAa oh this Snowman is what we consider "special" :) Then when I came home from work his head has completely fallen off, I thought about putting it back on but it may be best left on the ground:)
Ryan - First thing I did this morning was kick a snowman's head off :). Spent part of the evening doing a service project then came home and went to watch the Jazz game. So no money spent.
DAY 109
THUSRDAY
Lizzy - I had my orientation to get my business license today. 3 hours long and another 10 hours next month for the training. There is a TON of things on that checklist to do but I am excited to be my own boss and run my own business. So spread the word if you know anyone who needs Day Care I will be in business soon:)
Ryan - This week is going very slow. I worked at my parents to save money on driving to work, since I had to come home early to watch the kids for Lizzy. Thinking I would only get a 1/2 day in, I was able to get a full day in. So a vacation day saved.
Lizzy - I had my orientation to get my business license today. 3 hours long and another 10 hours next month for the training. There is a TON of things on that checklist to do but I am excited to be my own boss and run my own business. So spread the word if you know anyone who needs Day Care I will be in business soon:)
Ryan - This week is going very slow. I worked at my parents to save money on driving to work, since I had to come home early to watch the kids for Lizzy. Thinking I would only get a 1/2 day in, I was able to get a full day in. So a vacation day saved.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
DAY 108
WEDNESDAY
Lizzy - So things fell apart yesterday. Not only did the tire go flat but my disposal stopped working and the toilet upstairs wasn't flushing. So I just about had a melt down and then wondered how much this would all cost. But to my surprise we didn't spend a dime and everything has been fixed. Ryan fixed the toilet and yes we could have gotten a new part for it but he managed to rig it and make it work. The disposal was only clogged from my potato peels that I let fall down there so nothing to pay for there. The I took my car in today to Discount Tire and had it fixed free of charge. YES!! So better day by far. However yesterday evening was a nice surprise. My visiting teachers came and took me out for some soup and cocoa last night around 8. I was in my pajamas and ready to settle in when I got the knock on the door. It was a nice girls getaway. She paid for the whole thing which was really sweet. I am really starting to miss going out on a girls night activity. However unless I die which I am not planning to do right away, I will still get to in 9 or so months.
Tonight we are taking the kids out to see a live nativity scene. Another free activity oh yeah! It is very cold so I hope that we don't have to wait too long out there but I hear its worth it. Another victory with savings. I took the kids with me to change the tire (had no choice really) and it was right during lunch time. We could smell Mcdonalds across the street and Gracie asked to go eat something and would not let up. My fault for not packing treats in the car but we wouldn't have been able to get to them anyway. Jack too struggled because I forgot a drink but right as I was about to break down and get something they came out and said the car was done so I only had to listen to their cries the whole way home:) $5 saved SWEET!
Ryan - I was beginning to regret doing the Nativity activity after waiting in line with a kid who didn't want to walk (Gracie). So Lizzy and switched back and forth for 1 hour while we waited. Our arms were beat by the end of the night, but the end of the wait was worth the wait. Incredible probs made the everything look authentic.
Lizzy - So things fell apart yesterday. Not only did the tire go flat but my disposal stopped working and the toilet upstairs wasn't flushing. So I just about had a melt down and then wondered how much this would all cost. But to my surprise we didn't spend a dime and everything has been fixed. Ryan fixed the toilet and yes we could have gotten a new part for it but he managed to rig it and make it work. The disposal was only clogged from my potato peels that I let fall down there so nothing to pay for there. The I took my car in today to Discount Tire and had it fixed free of charge. YES!! So better day by far. However yesterday evening was a nice surprise. My visiting teachers came and took me out for some soup and cocoa last night around 8. I was in my pajamas and ready to settle in when I got the knock on the door. It was a nice girls getaway. She paid for the whole thing which was really sweet. I am really starting to miss going out on a girls night activity. However unless I die which I am not planning to do right away, I will still get to in 9 or so months.
Tonight we are taking the kids out to see a live nativity scene. Another free activity oh yeah! It is very cold so I hope that we don't have to wait too long out there but I hear its worth it. Another victory with savings. I took the kids with me to change the tire (had no choice really) and it was right during lunch time. We could smell Mcdonalds across the street and Gracie asked to go eat something and would not let up. My fault for not packing treats in the car but we wouldn't have been able to get to them anyway. Jack too struggled because I forgot a drink but right as I was about to break down and get something they came out and said the car was done so I only had to listen to their cries the whole way home:) $5 saved SWEET!
Ryan - I was beginning to regret doing the Nativity activity after waiting in line with a kid who didn't want to walk (Gracie). So Lizzy and switched back and forth for 1 hour while we waited. Our arms were beat by the end of the night, but the end of the wait was worth the wait. Incredible probs made the everything look authentic.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: McD's
COST: $5 TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3606.30
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
DAY 107
TUESDAY
Lizzy - OH MAN!!! I go to pick up Gracie from Preschool today and hear this crunching sound. I first thought it was the tires going over the ice..but no...its just the tires. There is a flat and its half way off the rim. How did this happen?? So I am stuck at home today. Which is fine because I really don't have anywhere to go but still it stinks! Life always does this. I'm not totally shocked. Our car sucks and always has. We have never gone 1 month without paying something for it. Ryan keeps saying its cheaper to fix than to pay for another car. I almost am doubting that now. Oh well.
Lizzy - OH MAN!!! I go to pick up Gracie from Preschool today and hear this crunching sound. I first thought it was the tires going over the ice..but no...its just the tires. There is a flat and its half way off the rim. How did this happen?? So I am stuck at home today. Which is fine because I really don't have anywhere to go but still it stinks! Life always does this. I'm not totally shocked. Our car sucks and always has. We have never gone 1 month without paying something for it. Ryan keeps saying its cheaper to fix than to pay for another car. I almost am doubting that now. Oh well.
Ryan - The car repairs over all are a lot less than what our payments use to be, so my philosophy still holds true. Keep in mind, we would not buy a new car, so a warranty would not cover repairs and all cars need repairs every now and then. So is it cheaper to buy a new car, have payments, and still have to fork out money for a car payment or have a car paid for and still make occasional repairs (we have not had to spend money each month and some of those repairs did not exceed what our car payment would be). So there.
Monday, November 29, 2010
DAY 106
MONDAY
Lizzy - Spent the evening sledding with some friends. We bundled up the kids and ourselves. I don't have any snow pants or boots and can't go get any. This time last year Jack was just 2 weeks old so I was not planning on going out in the snow. We talked about getting everyone some real snow gear this year but didn't know at the time we would be doing this no spending thing. So I initially thought I would just go and watch and then ended up taking a few runs down the hill. I was only in jeans and shoes and it was VERY cold. But still we had a good time and it was a free activity. Next year for sure I will be getting myself snow pants! So a savings this year of another $40 for pants and boots (just a guess I haven't priced them out) Gracie loved it and Jack not so much:) Maybe taking a 1 year old out on the hill wasn't such a great idea. Another dorky parent move on my part. He flipped out half way down the hill then got so cold he just stopped moving and clung on to me. I put him in the car and covered him in blankets. We didn't stay long, then came back to our place and played games and had hot cocoa. No money spent and still had fun:)
Ryan -Lizzy only wore jeans and shoes while sledding? Yeah, I guess it would be a little cold if that's all you are wearing. I didn't mind the view though :)! It was a little awkward for our friends, but they handled it okay. After sledding, went home and Lizzy put on a shirt and we had hot cider and cocoa.
I think another savings was perhaps going out to get hot chocolate or even a late snack at Village Inn, which we do when we get together with our friends. A possible $25 savings.
Lizzy - Spent the evening sledding with some friends. We bundled up the kids and ourselves. I don't have any snow pants or boots and can't go get any. This time last year Jack was just 2 weeks old so I was not planning on going out in the snow. We talked about getting everyone some real snow gear this year but didn't know at the time we would be doing this no spending thing. So I initially thought I would just go and watch and then ended up taking a few runs down the hill. I was only in jeans and shoes and it was VERY cold. But still we had a good time and it was a free activity. Next year for sure I will be getting myself snow pants! So a savings this year of another $40 for pants and boots (just a guess I haven't priced them out) Gracie loved it and Jack not so much:) Maybe taking a 1 year old out on the hill wasn't such a great idea. Another dorky parent move on my part. He flipped out half way down the hill then got so cold he just stopped moving and clung on to me. I put him in the car and covered him in blankets. We didn't stay long, then came back to our place and played games and had hot cocoa. No money spent and still had fun:)Ryan -Lizzy only wore jeans and shoes while sledding? Yeah, I guess it would be a little cold if that's all you are wearing. I didn't mind the view though :)! It was a little awkward for our friends, but they handled it okay. After sledding, went home and Lizzy put on a shirt and we had hot cider and cocoa.
I think another savings was perhaps going out to get hot chocolate or even a late snack at Village Inn, which we do when we get together with our friends. A possible $25 savings.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Snow Gear for lizzy
COST: $40 +$25TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3601.30
Sunday, November 28, 2010
DAY 105
Sunday
Lizzy - Got an invitation to run the Salt Lake Marathon in April. No I'm not an avid runner but I have done a 5k's once a year. So this would have been one I want to join in on. Yet the $75 registration fee is a bit steep for the no spending year. So for sure next year. I will still try and participate in my own way and do some practice runs with them.
Can't believe the snow out there today. This is more like it:) We have our snow man out there, the tree in the window, the perfect winter scene. I love it and I LOVE this time of year:) Need to look for that darn camera and put up our pictures.
Ryan - It was nice shoveling snow the whole day (the snow didn't stop once the whole day). I was running between our house and Lizzy's mother's house all day. Both driveways have extended RV pads so that made it even more difficult to keep up. I figured at the end of the day, I shoveled 3 ft of snow. WOW. I hope tomorrow is Sunny. I envied our neighbor who had a snow blower. That's a savings of 500-1000, but in reality, I wouldn't purchase one because the price is so steep.
Lizzy - Got an invitation to run the Salt Lake Marathon in April. No I'm not an avid runner but I have done a 5k's once a year. So this would have been one I want to join in on. Yet the $75 registration fee is a bit steep for the no spending year. So for sure next year. I will still try and participate in my own way and do some practice runs with them.
Can't believe the snow out there today. This is more like it:) We have our snow man out there, the tree in the window, the perfect winter scene. I love it and I LOVE this time of year:) Need to look for that darn camera and put up our pictures.
Ryan - It was nice shoveling snow the whole day (the snow didn't stop once the whole day). I was running between our house and Lizzy's mother's house all day. Both driveways have extended RV pads so that made it even more difficult to keep up. I figured at the end of the day, I shoveled 3 ft of snow. WOW. I hope tomorrow is Sunny. I envied our neighbor who had a snow blower. That's a savings of 500-1000, but in reality, I wouldn't purchase one because the price is so steep.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Registration Fee for Marathon
COST: $75TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3536.30
Saturday, November 27, 2010
DAY 104
SATURDAY
Lizzy -Another early morning at work then grocery shopping. The weather is turning south so its getting more difficult to run errands. I let Ryan go to his parents for the big BYU/UTAH game and took a nap with Jack. Then went to my moms to finish wrapping presents. When I got home Ryan and Gracie already had the tree and decorations out. So we spent the night listening to music and decorating the house. We all went to bed early. It was only like 8:45pm and everyone was asleep. Strange but it was very nice to rest.
Ryan - I think there was a big saving here. We lost our tree lights (or so we thought), Got some lights for free (online), but they were icicle lights so we couldn't use them for the tree. Lizzy mother had some extra lights since she bought a tree that already came with lights. She gave them to us and I had to spread them further apart to cover the tree sufficiently. After we had the tree lights and decorations on, I found our tree lights under the ornament boxes at the bottom of the the bin. So we are going to use them for Gracie's and Jack's room.
Lizzy -Another early morning at work then grocery shopping. The weather is turning south so its getting more difficult to run errands. I let Ryan go to his parents for the big BYU/UTAH game and took a nap with Jack. Then went to my moms to finish wrapping presents. When I got home Ryan and Gracie already had the tree and decorations out. So we spent the night listening to music and decorating the house. We all went to bed early. It was only like 8:45pm and everyone was asleep. Strange but it was very nice to rest.
Ryan - I think there was a big saving here. We lost our tree lights (or so we thought), Got some lights for free (online), but they were icicle lights so we couldn't use them for the tree. Lizzy mother had some extra lights since she bought a tree that already came with lights. She gave them to us and I had to spread them further apart to cover the tree sufficiently. After we had the tree lights and decorations on, I found our tree lights under the ornament boxes at the bottom of the the bin. So we are going to use them for Gracie's and Jack's room.
Friday, November 26, 2010
DAY 103
FRIDAY
Lizzy - Sat up last night watching an infomercial and got sucked in. I spent all morning having to refrain myself from getting online and just buying it. Its the "flavor wave" SO cool. The convenience, the variety and then time saving. So its hard to not give in. There are a couple of things I have bought online and I have not been too disappointed and then there are some I have regretted the minute I click purchase. But this was an entire all in one oven thing that cleans itself and cooks anything frozen to the "perfect" temp. So $150 that I am sure I would have broken down and just bought. I get paid double this next month for days I have covered so there's nothing to hold me back from my own personal spending money. What is sad is that I am more torn over buying the flavor wave then getting myself a new hair dryer. Weird. Nothing too crazy today. Just worked and then came home and relaxed all afternoon. We are headed out to do our grocery shopping and then to the post office. Later we will get started on our Christmas decorating. That may last through till tomorrow. SO I will tuck that money tightly away and consider this another savings. Not to mention its Black Friday. And every year we have gone out and made our purchases. Most of which were always unplanned. So the "black" part of this Friday are the mascara tears running down my face as I watch all the shoppers happily loading their bags with fun things:( See you next year shopping day.
Ryan - Trust me even if we weren't doing this no spending thing, I would have made Lizzy return her "oven". That's just a silly thing to do.
This is probably the one day I'm grateful we are not spending (Black Friday). I don't want to be standing in the freezing cold for hours or even overnight to buy something before someone else does.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Flavor waveCOST: $150
Lizzy - Sat up last night watching an infomercial and got sucked in. I spent all morning having to refrain myself from getting online and just buying it. Its the "flavor wave" SO cool. The convenience, the variety and then time saving. So its hard to not give in. There are a couple of things I have bought online and I have not been too disappointed and then there are some I have regretted the minute I click purchase. But this was an entire all in one oven thing that cleans itself and cooks anything frozen to the "perfect" temp. So $150 that I am sure I would have broken down and just bought. I get paid double this next month for days I have covered so there's nothing to hold me back from my own personal spending money. What is sad is that I am more torn over buying the flavor wave then getting myself a new hair dryer. Weird. Nothing too crazy today. Just worked and then came home and relaxed all afternoon. We are headed out to do our grocery shopping and then to the post office. Later we will get started on our Christmas decorating. That may last through till tomorrow. SO I will tuck that money tightly away and consider this another savings. Not to mention its Black Friday. And every year we have gone out and made our purchases. Most of which were always unplanned. So the "black" part of this Friday are the mascara tears running down my face as I watch all the shoppers happily loading their bags with fun things:( See you next year shopping day.
Ryan - Trust me even if we weren't doing this no spending thing, I would have made Lizzy return her "oven". That's just a silly thing to do.
This is probably the one day I'm grateful we are not spending (Black Friday). I don't want to be standing in the freezing cold for hours or even overnight to buy something before someone else does.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Flavor wave
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3461.30
Thursday, November 25, 2010
DAY 102
Thursday
Ryan - It was a "fun" day. Not a fan of eating a two big dinners an hour apart. We've got to figure something out. Perhaps having one on Thursday and another on Friday.
HAPPY TURKEY DAY!!!!
Ryan - It was a "fun" day. Not a fan of eating a two big dinners an hour apart. We've got to figure something out. Perhaps having one on Thursday and another on Friday.
Lizzy- Yes it is Thanksgiving and excitement is in the air. We woke up and did some fingerpaints with the kids then got to cooking. We were in charge of potatoes for both families. Ryan and Gracie played candyland and then we headed to my mothers to eat. After eating Jack was extreemly tired. He did not get his nap. Holdiays are hard at this age with the kids. They both still need their naps so we can't plow through as if they can handle it because it just doesnt happen. So I took him home and Ryan and Gracie went to his parents. I am sad to miss it but thats how it goes sometimes. Then by the time Ryan was done we came back to my moms and Gracie was asleep so she missed all the games:( It was still good food and a good day. Despite the fact that Ryan and I had our arguments on and off. But thats normal right? Not that posting it is necessary but we are normal and we do fight once in while. So now its off to bed and relax tomorrow. Its been one crazy week. As for funds my hair dryer broke right in the middle of drying it. Half my hair went wet. Oh man...of all the years I've had it why does it break this year during this challenge. ARGH!! Well I was able to borrow my mothers when I came over so now we will have to see how this plays out. I have a ceiling fan in my room that creates a little whirlwind, that could work. I will have to plan well in advance to shower and dry the hair before I have to go somewhere. This is going to be very annoying..If I could say bad words I would ...lol!!
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Hair Dryer
COST: $15TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3311.30
DAY 101
WEDNESDAY
Lizzy - Woke up to see how the storm was but nothing had happened. I went to work but they had closed till 10am so I came back at 10 and still no one was there. So I just went in and let the kids play anyways then people started showing up. Was there only an hour but still gave us something to do. Then tonight we went to Ryans parents house and cleaned all the rooms and put up their Christmas Tree. It was fun spending time with them and Gracie had such a good time helping with the ornaments. She found Grandmas collection of reindeer and had at it. She played with them for an hour and then we headed home. Besides groceries no desire to spend money today.
Ryan - Bought the necessary items for mashed potatoes. We were assigned to make mashed potatoes for each of family's T-day dinner. Not much else
Lizzy - Woke up to see how the storm was but nothing had happened. I went to work but they had closed till 10am so I came back at 10 and still no one was there. So I just went in and let the kids play anyways then people started showing up. Was there only an hour but still gave us something to do. Then tonight we went to Ryans parents house and cleaned all the rooms and put up their Christmas Tree. It was fun spending time with them and Gracie had such a good time helping with the ornaments. She found Grandmas collection of reindeer and had at it. She played with them for an hour and then we headed home. Besides groceries no desire to spend money today.
Ryan - Bought the necessary items for mashed potatoes. We were assigned to make mashed potatoes for each of family's T-day dinner. Not much else
DAY 100
TUESDAY
Lizzy - ITS DAY 100 WAHOO!!!
We have made it pretty far and its gone by SUPER fast. Gracie had her Thanksgiving Feast at preschool. She dressed up like an indian and they sang a little song and had a light brunch. It was so cute and again did not have the camera:( I am TERRIBLE with that...ohhh it kills me. I need to write more sticky notes to myself and keep that camera in the car or something. Yikes. I took the kids over to the aquarium and walked around a bit. It was very busy so we didnt stay long but it was nice to get out and go somewhere. I try not going there too often since thats the only pass we have but it will save us this winter and Gracie loves it.
So Ryan came home and everyone was advised to get home early due to this "Blizzard of 2010" Oh it was a joke. I went to the store to get milk and some water for the humidifier. I went around 7 which is when the "storm" was supposed to hit. I drove around thinking huh? Am I missing it somewhere? Was nothing. really. We normally have snow and its normally cold and windy so why was this different? Its winter in Utah...duh!! This happens every year and yet the news made it out to be such a huge deal. We had fun playing gmaes and watching movies though. We thought this would be a fun night to get a red box. But of course just a thought.
Ryan - Today was suppose to be a big storm, but it didn't happen. Everyone was buckling in for disaster. People left work early, schools announced that they were closing, radio stations went off the air early and all we got was 2 inches of snow. Lizzy and I went and got extra batteries for our lanterns in case the power went out. We were excited to watch the snow pile up. Oh well. Eating pasta for this short week. I've had $7 in cash in my pocket this whole week and I have to admit it's been tempting to get a snack with the money. So I guess there's a saving there somewhere.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Red Box / Money in pocket
COST: $1 / $7
Lizzy - ITS DAY 100 WAHOO!!!
We have made it pretty far and its gone by SUPER fast. Gracie had her Thanksgiving Feast at preschool. She dressed up like an indian and they sang a little song and had a light brunch. It was so cute and again did not have the camera:( I am TERRIBLE with that...ohhh it kills me. I need to write more sticky notes to myself and keep that camera in the car or something. Yikes. I took the kids over to the aquarium and walked around a bit. It was very busy so we didnt stay long but it was nice to get out and go somewhere. I try not going there too often since thats the only pass we have but it will save us this winter and Gracie loves it.
So Ryan came home and everyone was advised to get home early due to this "Blizzard of 2010" Oh it was a joke. I went to the store to get milk and some water for the humidifier. I went around 7 which is when the "storm" was supposed to hit. I drove around thinking huh? Am I missing it somewhere? Was nothing. really. We normally have snow and its normally cold and windy so why was this different? Its winter in Utah...duh!! This happens every year and yet the news made it out to be such a huge deal. We had fun playing gmaes and watching movies though. We thought this would be a fun night to get a red box. But of course just a thought.
Ryan - Today was suppose to be a big storm, but it didn't happen. Everyone was buckling in for disaster. People left work early, schools announced that they were closing, radio stations went off the air early and all we got was 2 inches of snow. Lizzy and I went and got extra batteries for our lanterns in case the power went out. We were excited to watch the snow pile up. Oh well. Eating pasta for this short week. I've had $7 in cash in my pocket this whole week and I have to admit it's been tempting to get a snack with the money. So I guess there's a saving there somewhere.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Red Box / Money in pocket
COST: $1 / $7
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3298.30
Monday, November 22, 2010
Day 97
Saturday
Ryan - Very busy day. We did yard work and took care of some errands. Other than that, nothing big. Prepared church lessons. Typically I'll prepare my lesson on a Google document and then print it out. I wonder what we'll do when the ink runs out. Do everything by hand. I ask, because, sometimes it's hard to determine where we draw the line on what's a need and want. With Lizzy being called as an instructor in the RS, I see the ink running out faster than normal. I will choose to write my notes out, even though it will take a bit longer to prepare my lessons. Oh well. I hope Lizzy follows suit.
Lizzy - You could just ask me in person ya know. I feel like we have our real life and then this online conversation:) But yes I thought about the ink issue and I don't think its a need right now. Lets save it for a real need. So I will start finding scratch paper to write down my notes and make sure to use a pencil:) Lots of yard work before the snow came today it was nice. To get it all done. Wanted item today was a rake. And we would have just bought one which would be the easier thing to do since we dont have one. But instead we went and borrowed my mothers. Worked out fine and last week borrowed a neighbors. So by the time we have to rake again we will be able to buy our own.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Rake / Garden Gloves
COST: $20 / $5
Ryan - Very busy day. We did yard work and took care of some errands. Other than that, nothing big. Prepared church lessons. Typically I'll prepare my lesson on a Google document and then print it out. I wonder what we'll do when the ink runs out. Do everything by hand. I ask, because, sometimes it's hard to determine where we draw the line on what's a need and want. With Lizzy being called as an instructor in the RS, I see the ink running out faster than normal. I will choose to write my notes out, even though it will take a bit longer to prepare my lessons. Oh well. I hope Lizzy follows suit.
Lizzy - You could just ask me in person ya know. I feel like we have our real life and then this online conversation:) But yes I thought about the ink issue and I don't think its a need right now. Lets save it for a real need. So I will start finding scratch paper to write down my notes and make sure to use a pencil:) Lots of yard work before the snow came today it was nice. To get it all done. Wanted item today was a rake. And we would have just bought one which would be the easier thing to do since we dont have one. But instead we went and borrowed my mothers. Worked out fine and last week borrowed a neighbors. So by the time we have to rake again we will be able to buy our own.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Rake / Garden Gloves
COST: $20 / $5
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3296.30
Day 98 + 99
SUNDAY
Ryan - Lizzy can elaborate on the details of a very scary event with our our close friends. The husband went hiking/repelling somewhere down south on Friday expecting to be home on Saturday (evening). Well he didn't come home and so his wife called Search and Rescue and on Saturday night a big storm came through northern Utah and a little bit of snow hit where he was. Turns out that he and three others were stuck in a canyon they were repelling, unable to get back to the top. Expecting to get rescued on Sunday, they were actually found on Monday. Fortunately, there was a cave to partially shield them from the freezing temperatures, but I couldn't imagine, what kind of panic would set in when you realize no one is coming to help. Miraculously, when the rescuers found them on Monday morning, they had no signs of frostbite or hypothermia. Why do I tell you this? In an earlier blog, I suggested that we wait on the food storage. Well, that may change. I'm positive, my friend didn't expect to be in the situation he was in and he's a very knowledgeable person. Disaster isn't going to wait for a convenient time to strike and if we are not ready, then we have no excuse, because we have been advise by our leaders to build our food storage and have a plan in the event that disaster strikes.
Friday, November 19, 2010
DAY 96
FRIDAY
Lizzy - SCORE!!! Great day to use the coupons. Normally shopping day is Sat but because of combinations of coupons I used here is what I got for free:
1 carton of Orange Juice
1 large Dozen Eggs
1 lb Bacon
1 50oz bag of Cereal
1 bag of English muffins
Yes you heard me.....
Thanks Winco, you saved me around $8 and gave us free breakfast this week. And those items are what we usually buy and name brand so it was awesome! HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO US!
Ryan - In response to Lizzy's question yesterday. I would say it's a want in this case. We have put it off in the past because we were lazy or didn't want to spend the money. Yes it's a need (in case of disaster), but we have put it off this long, so purchasing food storage now is simply a want for a need. Since we are focusing on saving, I think we wait until the end of our year.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Grocery Savings
COST: $8
Lizzy - SCORE!!! Great day to use the coupons. Normally shopping day is Sat but because of combinations of coupons I used here is what I got for free:
1 carton of Orange Juice
1 large Dozen Eggs
1 lb Bacon
1 50oz bag of Cereal
1 bag of English muffins
Yes you heard me.....
Thanks Winco, you saved me around $8 and gave us free breakfast this week. And those items are what we usually buy and name brand so it was awesome! HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO US!
Ryan - In response to Lizzy's question yesterday. I would say it's a want in this case. We have put it off in the past because we were lazy or didn't want to spend the money. Yes it's a need (in case of disaster), but we have put it off this long, so purchasing food storage now is simply a want for a need. Since we are focusing on saving, I think we wait until the end of our year.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Grocery Savings
COST: $8
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3271.30
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Day 95
Thursday
Ryan - I returned the "extra" stuff from yesterday, but since I didn't have a receipt, I had to accept a store credit. I can recoup the money from my side jobs, since I'm a regular at Home Depot. I really like the new toilet. The only problem is the supply line leaks still and I can't get a compatible replacement part because the original plumbing was done unconventionally. So I still have more work to do. Bummer.
Lizzy - Okay here is my question and any comments would be helpful. Because I was asked to be part of the Emergency Preparedness in our area and I have been taking classes, I feel very prompted to purchase a 3 month supply of food storage. See, we have been told to have at least a 6 month supply and looking in our cupboards we have a 0 month supply. Lately it keeps coming back on my mind that we need to get something in place. I feel strongly about it and that I would be doing the right thing for my children especially. So...how does this work with the no spending quest we are on? Is paying for this supply breaking our rule? Or is not having food in the event of an emergency for the next 9 months worth the wait? Big dilemma and not sure what one would say. Any suggestions???
Ryan - I returned the "extra" stuff from yesterday, but since I didn't have a receipt, I had to accept a store credit. I can recoup the money from my side jobs, since I'm a regular at Home Depot. I really like the new toilet. The only problem is the supply line leaks still and I can't get a compatible replacement part because the original plumbing was done unconventionally. So I still have more work to do. Bummer.
Lizzy - Okay here is my question and any comments would be helpful. Because I was asked to be part of the Emergency Preparedness in our area and I have been taking classes, I feel very prompted to purchase a 3 month supply of food storage. See, we have been told to have at least a 6 month supply and looking in our cupboards we have a 0 month supply. Lately it keeps coming back on my mind that we need to get something in place. I feel strongly about it and that I would be doing the right thing for my children especially. So...how does this work with the no spending quest we are on? Is paying for this supply breaking our rule? Or is not having food in the event of an emergency for the next 9 months worth the wait? Big dilemma and not sure what one would say. Any suggestions??? Wednesday, November 17, 2010
DAY 93 + 94
WEDNESDAY DAY 94
Lizzy-
I thought this day would have been a lot less crazy...and boy was it NOT. Spent money today. Lots of it. Very necessary yet NOT WANTED. So I start out the day normal, getting everyone ready and off to work. It didn't last very long at all. Since Jack had his shots yesterday he has been cranky. Enough to the point where my coworkers were encouraging me to leave (I'm sure they meant for my sake and not for their own right? lol) He would not stop crying so my stress level was high. I get home and put him in the crib to cry it out and go downstairs to find Gracie. She had used the bathroom and next thing I see a flooded basement. It didn't spread too far but YUCK!!!! I was SO out of control. Thoughts ran through my head like "its ok..just stay calm and clean it up you can do this" But what came out was "WHAT THE HECK!!! YOUR KIDDING
ME....%*#)*%&#!!! I called Ryan and told him to get home STAT! Its not a little puddle on the floor its to the point where my rug was floating and completely immersed in the water. And I should say not "just" water..eeeewww! Our BRAND NEW CARPET RUINED!! Oh my heart sank. I used up all the towels, threw them in the garbage and got Ryan's water vacuum thing and soaked up what I could. But then the carpet needed pulling back and we had to replace the mat and rent a carpet cleaner and a fan from home depot. So as Ryan gets home to take care of the big stuff I sanitize what I can of the bathroom and still need to go in now and double bleach the floors and walls. This is the second time with this toilet that has ruined our carpet and because I am starting my day care business next year we just went and got a new toilet. Trust me it was not a "want" We can't afford to do this for a 3rd time. So it is cheaper to buy a toilet then to rent cleaners and fans and replace mats again. So its going well and we are getting things done. Thought it would get better right?
No...it didn't. Our car has had issues so its been at our friends who is a mechanic. He kindly lets us take his car when he is working on it and right when I try leaving I can't find the key. We search for an hour around the house and can't find it. Seriously? Now my kids are whining and our basement is in shambles and I can't find a car key to a car that's not even mine. I lost a book order that was due today for Gracie and now my towels are gone. Can I hit rewind? Anyone know where that button is? So Toilet and Towels were on the need list today. I will give ourselves some good points today though. The cost of the toilet will be reimbursed once I get my business license. They said if I kept all the receipts of any purchases for the house which will be considered my "office" Then I get up to $600 credit back. So its not really a cost for us down the road. And the second point is a big one. We have a new toilet seat sitting upstairs on the bathroom counter. Our upstairs toilet is old and has the cracking and the discoloration on the bottom...not pretty but I am sure you all have one of these. So we thought "why we are here lets just replace our upstairs lid" and we did. Was that smart? No..we were in the moment. And as I sit here and write I feel guilty and want to stay true so Ryan agrees with me its going back tomorrow. So a no good very bad day:( And now I will go try and close my eyes and make it go away. See you tomorrow:)
Ryan - For the third day in a row, I have not been in the office for the whole day. Lizzy's call made me upset. I'm sick of things like this. It requires putting your head down and burrowing forward, while other todo's need to be put on hold to take care of an "emergency". Our rationalization for the toilet seat upstairs was for the business, but in reality it was a weak moment that we are going to correct. We can however, use the seat from the toilet that we just removed. It's in better condition and should fit.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Extra Toilet Seat
COST: $32
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3263.30
TUESDAY DAY 93
Lizzy - Busy and good day. Someone called me from my KSL add and said she had extra Christmas lights they were getting rid of and I could come pick them up. She lives very close too so it was extra pleasant. Now we have lights that we were looking for and our Tree will be lit. Whew!! So I take Gracie to our neighbors so she can take her to school at the right time. I had to leave early and make it to Jacks one year appointment. He is doing great and growing just fine. He got his shots which were not fun but he did well. Then I had to go pick up those lights. We get home and I pick up Gracie and we read and work on her crafts. I go make it to my visiting teach appointments today then go up to my in-laws to return their car. Ours has been in the shop and we needed an extra car today. Then straight from there I head to my CPR and First Aid training classes. So now is a good time to be around me since I feel comfortable saving lives:) IT was a great class and I feel more confident and inspired to get my kits and emergency stuff reorganized. Overall great day and no spending again:)
Ryan - Well I had to go in late to work again to help out with Jack's doctor appointment. Also I had to drop the car off to our mechanic. The oil has been leaking and we can't see to figure out why. I took care of the kids tonight.
It was nice that Lizzy was able to procure some lights for us. It will be a very humble Christmas. It reminds me of all those Christmas movies that have a rich family be humbled to know the "true" meaning of Christmas. The only exception being that we aren't rich (monetarily speaking).
Today a co-worker offer to buy me lunch. I initially declined, but he coaxed me into it. I told him, I didn't want him to feel obligated because of our ban on extra spending. I told him when we were done with our goal, I would take him out. It was very nice of him.
Lizzy-
I thought this day would have been a lot less crazy...and boy was it NOT. Spent money today. Lots of it. Very necessary yet NOT WANTED. So I start out the day normal, getting everyone ready and off to work. It didn't last very long at all. Since Jack had his shots yesterday he has been cranky. Enough to the point where my coworkers were encouraging me to leave (I'm sure they meant for my sake and not for their own right? lol) He would not stop crying so my stress level was high. I get home and put him in the crib to cry it out and go downstairs to find Gracie. She had used the bathroom and next thing I see a flooded basement. It didn't spread too far but YUCK!!!! I was SO out of control. Thoughts ran through my head like "its ok..just stay calm and clean it up you can do this" But what came out was "WHAT THE HECK!!! YOUR KIDDINGME....%*#)*%&#!!! I called Ryan and told him to get home STAT! Its not a little puddle on the floor its to the point where my rug was floating and completely immersed in the water. And I should say not "just" water..eeeewww! Our BRAND NEW CARPET RUINED!! Oh my heart sank. I used up all the towels, threw them in the garbage and got Ryan's water vacuum thing and soaked up what I could. But then the carpet needed pulling back and we had to replace the mat and rent a carpet cleaner and a fan from home depot. So as Ryan gets home to take care of the big stuff I sanitize what I can of the bathroom and still need to go in now and double bleach the floors and walls. This is the second time with this toilet that has ruined our carpet and because I am starting my day care business next year we just went and got a new toilet. Trust me it was not a "want" We can't afford to do this for a 3rd time. So it is cheaper to buy a toilet then to rent cleaners and fans and replace mats again. So its going well and we are getting things done. Thought it would get better right?
Ryan - For the third day in a row, I have not been in the office for the whole day. Lizzy's call made me upset. I'm sick of things like this. It requires putting your head down and burrowing forward, while other todo's need to be put on hold to take care of an "emergency". Our rationalization for the toilet seat upstairs was for the business, but in reality it was a weak moment that we are going to correct. We can however, use the seat from the toilet that we just removed. It's in better condition and should fit.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Extra Toilet Seat
COST: $32
TUESDAY DAY 93
Lizzy - Busy and good day. Someone called me from my KSL add and said she had extra Christmas lights they were getting rid of and I could come pick them up. She lives very close too so it was extra pleasant. Now we have lights that we were looking for and our Tree will be lit. Whew!! So I take Gracie to our neighbors so she can take her to school at the right time. I had to leave early and make it to Jacks one year appointment. He is doing great and growing just fine. He got his shots which were not fun but he did well. Then I had to go pick up those lights. We get home and I pick up Gracie and we read and work on her crafts. I go make it to my visiting teach appointments today then go up to my in-laws to return their car. Ours has been in the shop and we needed an extra car today. Then straight from there I head to my CPR and First Aid training classes. So now is a good time to be around me since I feel comfortable saving lives:) IT was a great class and I feel more confident and inspired to get my kits and emergency stuff reorganized. Overall great day and no spending again:)
Ryan - Well I had to go in late to work again to help out with Jack's doctor appointment. Also I had to drop the car off to our mechanic. The oil has been leaking and we can't see to figure out why. I took care of the kids tonight.
It was nice that Lizzy was able to procure some lights for us. It will be a very humble Christmas. It reminds me of all those Christmas movies that have a rich family be humbled to know the "true" meaning of Christmas. The only exception being that we aren't rich (monetarily speaking).
Today a co-worker offer to buy me lunch. I initially declined, but he coaxed me into it. I told him, I didn't want him to feel obligated because of our ban on extra spending. I told him when we were done with our goal, I would take him out. It was very nice of him.
Monday, November 15, 2010
DAY 92
Lizzy - Tough Day. I had to go back to the store to return our yogurt and was MAJORLY tempted to buy a treat for myself. This holiday is going to suck! Excuse my verbiage, but its hard not buying extra decorations and presents and food. I never usually go to the store unless its a Sat. I keep it to one day a week so I can plan it out in my head and get through it. When I have time to wander around on a "non Saturday" it becomes dangerous to my mind and my wallet!! But mission accomplished. I walked in and traded what I needed to and nothing extra. My temptation was the check out line. I normally would have just grabbed a bag of something today. Why make all the way to the store and not pick up a little treat?
So maybe $1 saved on that today. You would think that by not giving into temptation my waist size would shrink, but I am not so sure home cooking is any healthier than a drive through. I need to make an effort to re-evaluate my meal plans again. Perfect time to do it too since the holidays are coming:)
Ryan - Helped my dad taking my mother to a doctor's appointment. I had to start work early and work late to make up for the time, but it's feels good to help out my parents. I then went to finish up a side job. Not much else.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Candy
COST: $1
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3231.30
So maybe $1 saved on that today. You would think that by not giving into temptation my waist size would shrink, but I am not so sure home cooking is any healthier than a drive through. I need to make an effort to re-evaluate my meal plans again. Perfect time to do it too since the holidays are coming:)Ryan - Helped my dad taking my mother to a doctor's appointment. I had to start work early and work late to make up for the time, but it's feels good to help out my parents. I then went to finish up a side job. Not much else.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Candy
COST: $1
Day 90-91
Saturday
Ryan - Okay, the Utah Jazz on are pulling wins out of their backside. Historically speaking, in the past 5 games they have came back from deficits of 18, 22, 18, 11, and 19. 4 of the 5 have been on the road against playoff teams. What does this have to do with our finances? I haven't seen any of them. I've listened some of them on the radio, but I'm relegated to reading news clips and radio post games. I miss my DirecTV and TIVO. The savings is $50-$70 a month. But it's for the best and I'll survive.
Lizzy - Relax....its just a game.(j/k..I know that comment makes you want to hit me upside the head lol:) I'm happy for the Jazz and for Ryans dedication as a big fan. We all need something to focus on rather than our boring lives. Today we spent working in the yard and cleaning the garage as well as some grocery shopping and house cleaning. I also picked up an extra shift at work this morning but didn't have to drag the kids along which was great. I am able to start catching up on that book The Hunger Games. Not sure what the big deal was about it. I am 1/3 of the way in and its not a page turner like I was expecting. Maybe because its just not my cup of tea when it comes to a good read. Oh well.
Sunday
Ryan - We had Jack's birthday party tonight and we got him a cake on Saturday. I don't know if this is a violation of our mission statement, but I didn't want to celebrate his first birthday with leftovers in the refrigerator or pantry. We did go with a $6 cake and $4 gallon of ice cream that fed everyone tonight. We did not do a dinner either, where we would normally feed family members. We asked them to eat before coming. It was tough.
Lizzy - I think we stuck to the plan just fine tonight. Like Ryan said we got the $6 cake instead of the Sams Club $17.99 one. So right there was $12 saved. As well as not having a dinner (which my mother ended up doing anyways) But we were not planning on it which would have been another $25-$30 there. So Roughly $40 saved on this Birthday as well as not buying him a new gift. Ok I admit that is a sad thought but I pulled out some old (new) package of spongy letters that we had stored that go in the tub. He loves them and doesnt know we didn't spend a dime on a new gift. Overall I had a great time with the family and just happy that Jack is well and healthy and in our lives. He is such a joy! Plus since he is walking more its fun to play with him. And since it was Sunday again no money spent.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Fancy Cake / Dinner for Family + New Present
COST: $40
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3230.30
Ryan - Okay, the Utah Jazz on are pulling wins out of their backside. Historically speaking, in the past 5 games they have came back from deficits of 18, 22, 18, 11, and 19. 4 of the 5 have been on the road against playoff teams. What does this have to do with our finances? I haven't seen any of them. I've listened some of them on the radio, but I'm relegated to reading news clips and radio post games. I miss my DirecTV and TIVO. The savings is $50-$70 a month. But it's for the best and I'll survive.
Lizzy - Relax....its just a game.(j/k..I know that comment makes you want to hit me upside the head lol:) I'm happy for the Jazz and for Ryans dedication as a big fan. We all need something to focus on rather than our boring lives. Today we spent working in the yard and cleaning the garage as well as some grocery shopping and house cleaning. I also picked up an extra shift at work this morning but didn't have to drag the kids along which was great. I am able to start catching up on that book The Hunger Games. Not sure what the big deal was about it. I am 1/3 of the way in and its not a page turner like I was expecting. Maybe because its just not my cup of tea when it comes to a good read. Oh well.
Sunday
Ryan - We had Jack's birthday party tonight and we got him a cake on Saturday. I don't know if this is a violation of our mission statement, but I didn't want to celebrate his first birthday with leftovers in the refrigerator or pantry. We did go with a $6 cake and $4 gallon of ice cream that fed everyone tonight. We did not do a dinner either, where we would normally feed family members. We asked them to eat before coming. It was tough.
Lizzy - I think we stuck to the plan just fine tonight. Like Ryan said we got the $6 cake instead of the Sams Club $17.99 one. So right there was $12 saved. As well as not having a dinner (which my mother ended up doing anyways) But we were not planning on it which would have been another $25-$30 there. So Roughly $40 saved on this Birthday as well as not buying him a new gift. Ok I admit that is a sad thought but I pulled out some old (new) package of spongy letters that we had stored that go in the tub. He loves them and doesnt know we didn't spend a dime on a new gift. Overall I had a great time with the family and just happy that Jack is well and healthy and in our lives. He is such a joy! Plus since he is walking more its fun to play with him. And since it was Sunday again no money spent.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Fancy Cake / Dinner for Family + New Present
COST: $40
Friday, November 12, 2010
DAY 89
Friday
Lizzy - I am not too worried about what Ryan was talking about. I think we have enough presents set aside for the kids for Jack's Birthday and Christmas. Starting out with just a few gifts especially since they are young is a lot more than what some people have. Also it helps us keep the cost down for next year with their expectations. As for myself I am used to not getting presents. lol..j/k Ryan has always been good...I think I cant remember. What I really want is to get my hair done. Thats my only complaint and will be the rest of the time. I hate my hair and want it colored and cut. I may have to figure something creative out to get this taken care of. But really I already see it as 89 days and its not been the easiest but it feels great breaking down each dollar that comes in and out. Being able to save has been very rewarding and thats now where I get my rush instead of the need to spend. Today at my work one of Gracies friends asked her to get a quarter from me so they could go to the vending machines. I had to turn her down which I felt bad about yet still feel good I didn't give in and also get the chance to teach Gracie patience. So $.25 saved is all we came up with today. Oh and we did forget to say that we rented a movie from Red Box using their free code "Breakroom". We always get red box movies and have not been accounting for them. Im SURE it would have been at least $5...the very LEAST.
Ryan - As her father, the story with Gracie is a heartbreaker. She doesn't understand what we are doing. I love her to death and want her to enjoy the little pleasures in life, but I see this is more as a reflection of my personality and mindset financially and how I rationalized spending needlessly. I'll just give her a hug when I get home.
I always considered my father the miser of the family. And not until I was older, I was not his biggest fan and had many ill feelings towards him. He was the "No" man. But now I see that he may have felt the same when he was saying no to his children.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Vending Machine / Red Box
COST: $.25 / $5
TOTAL $ SAVED YTD: $3190.30
Lizzy - I am not too worried about what Ryan was talking about. I think we have enough presents set aside for the kids for Jack's Birthday and Christmas. Starting out with just a few gifts especially since they are young is a lot more than what some people have. Also it helps us keep the cost down for next year with their expectations. As for myself I am used to not getting presents. lol..j/k Ryan has always been good...I think I cant remember. What I really want is to get my hair done. Thats my only complaint and will be the rest of the time. I hate my hair and want it colored and cut. I may have to figure something creative out to get this taken care of. But really I already see it as 89 days and its not been the easiest but it feels great breaking down each dollar that comes in and out. Being able to save has been very rewarding and thats now where I get my rush instead of the need to spend. Today at my work one of Gracies friends asked her to get a quarter from me so they could go to the vending machines. I had to turn her down which I felt bad about yet still feel good I didn't give in and also get the chance to teach Gracie patience. So $.25 saved is all we came up with today. Oh and we did forget to say that we rented a movie from Red Box using their free code "Breakroom". We always get red box movies and have not been accounting for them. Im SURE it would have been at least $5...the very LEAST.
Ryan - As her father, the story with Gracie is a heartbreaker. She doesn't understand what we are doing. I love her to death and want her to enjoy the little pleasures in life, but I see this is more as a reflection of my personality and mindset financially and how I rationalized spending needlessly. I'll just give her a hug when I get home.
I always considered my father the miser of the family. And not until I was older, I was not his biggest fan and had many ill feelings towards him. He was the "No" man. But now I see that he may have felt the same when he was saying no to his children.
TODAY'S WANTED ITEM: Vending Machine / Red Box
COST: $.25 / $5
Day 88
Thursday
Ryan - I did some work for a previous client tonight. He had me do some handyman task for a couple of hours. Things are winding down. I'm not too concerned about the reduction of side job cash flow. We've had a great summer of work. I have a few jobs lined up when the weather warms up in the spring already. Now it's time to give my family attention. I'm excited about that. Especially with the holidays coming up. I have a few vacation days left too that I can use for my family and not side jobs.
This time of the season is going to be our big test. I know we have gifts for our kids, but nothing big. Sure they are young and won't remember. Monday is Jack's first birthday and we can't put anything big together for him except a dinner with the family. We have put all this extra money into savings and paying down my school loan and we can't use it and that's just the beginning. Here's what's coming up in the next few months in regards to gifts:
Ryan - I did some work for a previous client tonight. He had me do some handyman task for a couple of hours. Things are winding down. I'm not too concerned about the reduction of side job cash flow. We've had a great summer of work. I have a few jobs lined up when the weather warms up in the spring already. Now it's time to give my family attention. I'm excited about that. Especially with the holidays coming up. I have a few vacation days left too that I can use for my family and not side jobs.
This time of the season is going to be our big test. I know we have gifts for our kids, but nothing big. Sure they are young and won't remember. Monday is Jack's first birthday and we can't put anything big together for him except a dinner with the family. We have put all this extra money into savings and paying down my school loan and we can't use it and that's just the beginning. Here's what's coming up in the next few months in regards to gifts:
- November 15th - Jack's birthday
- December 25th - Christmas
- January 22nd - Lizzy birthday (this one I don't feel as bad. I used my b-day and side job gift cards for our date and she was able to go to New York). I'll make her something with what's laying around the house.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
DAY 87
WEDNESDAY
Ryan - Well it's nice to see things slow down on the side jobs. I'm just doing little things for people. It will be nice to be with the family on a more regular basis and perhaps I can get things done at my mother-in-laws. She's done quite a bit for us and it will be nice to take care of some thing over at her house.
It was great see Jack walk for the first time. I was so proud of him. It brought back memories of Gracie.
I think we are getting back on track with groceries and our budget. The way I can tell is that in the mornings I'm looking for unhealthy snacks and there are none. There's food, but not junk food. There seems to be a correlation that good tasting convenient food cost money.
Lizzy - Pretty calm day with work,library and crafts and games at home. Gracie made an interesting turkey with chalk. It was very messy but very fun. Then we played a game of twister
And the most exciting news after is that JACK WALKED TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME!!! We kept him going back and forth for a while till he got tired. WAHOO!
Ryan - Well it's nice to see things slow down on the side jobs. I'm just doing little things for people. It will be nice to be with the family on a more regular basis and perhaps I can get things done at my mother-in-laws. She's done quite a bit for us and it will be nice to take care of some thing over at her house.
It was great see Jack walk for the first time. I was so proud of him. It brought back memories of Gracie.
I think we are getting back on track with groceries and our budget. The way I can tell is that in the mornings I'm looking for unhealthy snacks and there are none. There's food, but not junk food. There seems to be a correlation that good tasting convenient food cost money.
Lizzy - Pretty calm day with work,library and crafts and games at home. Gracie made an interesting turkey with chalk. It was very messy but very fun. Then we played a game of twister
And the most exciting news after is that JACK WALKED TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME!!! We kept him going back and forth for a while till he got tired. WAHOO!
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