Chris and I had the dreaded "talk" tonight. You know the one. Money's tight...what the heck are we going to do about it? We're in the midst of deciding on a big purchase, and along with that comes a little bit of anxiety about the future. We want to be able to buy a house...eventually! (That is, of course, if we're ever in one place for long enough! Ha!) And then there is Elli's college to think about, and my new business expenses, and we'd really like to be pet owner's someday (and we all know how much money THAT costs!). It just seems like it starts adding up faster than you can earn it. And then comes the dread...the cutting back...the saying "no". And I don't know about you guys, but really don't like to say "no"!
So, after our chat we decided that we're going back to the envelope system. Ever heard of it? If not, pick up any Dave Ramsey book (or google it, it's cheaper!) and you'll discover what I'm talking about. I first read a Dave book out of sheer boredom during one of Chris's TDY's, and I've been a huge fan ever since! The envelope system helped us save lots-o-moola while we lived in England, but when we moved back to the States we abandoned ship. (I think it might have a little something to do with a super cute girl named Elli, and the ADORABLE clothes that I just HAD to buy for her! I could be wrong though!) But alas, we are going back to what works. Envelopes it is.
I'm curious though...how do you guys save money? Got any great tricks that you'd like to share with me? And books that you highly recommend? Or programs that you absolutely swear by? We used Mint.com for awhile...but our enthusiasm quickly faded.
And what is the hardest thing for you to give up? For me it's eating out (oh the shame!). Eating out is like entertainment for me, I crave the experience of it all! And, let's be honest here, staying at home and eating a peanut butter sandwich just really isn't that exciting! But if I can curb my love of all things Chick-fil-a, I feel I can do anything :)
