Pay day today, had lunch with a colleague. Our manager has written her up. The woman is crazy and I'm not sure why her retaliatory behavior has yet to be address. Four people has quit because she's just outright nasty, and four have filed grievances. I really didn't want to go but I know she needed it.

Today's spending
$5.65 to CC3 new balance $1019.26. I use a zero base balance budget and had $3.65 to play with so I added it to the CC, plus I had two no spend days, so I added $2

Next lunch was $12.43 this included lunch, I have to remember to order water to keep cost down.

Next I ordered my nephews magazines for Christmas. I was going to go through Ebates for the cash back but found it's more expensive to do that. So $15 for Kids National Geographic, $33.90 for two one year subscription of Boys Life. The Boys Life was reduced by $7 each, I am so glad I waited on purchasing vs using a CC. Next I'll send my other nephew his $25 in a card on Friday. He's 13 so I'm sure he'll want the cash to do what he wants.

Minimum was paid on JCP $117 , and BoA $67.05 CCs

Car insurance was $166.64, I can just kick myself, I forgot to print and sign the change in coverage, I'll be doing this tomorrow.

Of course tithes was paid $160.73 now it's just rent, water, and electric. I'll be taking care of tomorrow.

Oops almost forgot, I got the second interview 😀

Balancing my cash envelopes and I had a total of $187, here's the break down:
* recreation $24
* Personal $25
* Groceries $88
* Cleaning $11
* Transportation $39

I added $1.01 of change to my change jar for a new balance of $19.12

Today was a no spend day, so a buck was added to the snowball fund. Hopefully tomorrow is as well.

This budget period is a little tight, so I'm rolling over the $39 in the transportation envelope, the $24 in the recreation envelope and the $11 in the house envelope.

$113 will be added to the holiday party fund. I know a holiday party? This was something that was already planned pre-DR, nothing else (cash) will go to this. We generally have a few friends and family members over to the house the weekend before Christmas, we eat and play cheesy Christmas games. The good news is that we have drinks left over from last year, and crackers left over from the hurricane supply.

I'll be creating a list of items to purchase and sticking to it, spending only whats in the envelope. This is something I, personally would like to continue and I'm sure next year I'll be in a better place. I would cancel but we have people who have already booked to come down months ago.

Other news; the SO went to court, the ex wife changed the child's address at school and presented it at the courts as if the kid lives with her. Smh because the SO was told in August to bring the documents in and the child support would stop, he had the document but he was too lazy to do it. Honestly as he was telling me, I didn't even feel bad, I was thinking when will you finish so I can balance my cash envelopes?

He said he had to pay $500 court cost, personally I didn't care and was thinking oh well so long as you have your rent I'm good. I don't know, I'm just at the point that I want this debt gone so I can move.

Went on the interview, thought it was strange the guy only ask why should he hire me. Oh well it is what it is. I'll keep looking.
I reached out to a friend who works with small businesses to let him know that I am looking for some cleaning work and to keep his eyes open. I either need to get a new job with more money or get a part time gig to pay this debt off quick.

And I'm not even considering

Cable is finally off and I'm happy.
For months the fiancé never pays his portion, he always waits until the bill gets really high, pays something, and not all. If it's cut off, I'd normally take a credit card and pay it, and wait for him to pay me back but not this time. The cable will be turned off at least twice a year. Nope nope nope, not going to happen, I have a goal.

I asked him a few weeks ago, just before the holiday if we should cut somethings out when it came to the cable. He said no, it wouldn't reduce the bill by much. I explain that we had only looked at the premium channels and not the HD channels to remove, he still said no and that he would give me the money. A new bill came, I told him and I paid my half. I reminded him that there was an outstanding balance, I can see he was annoyed but it's not my fault that your mom isn't paying you and you refuse to take a look at your finances or pick up a part time job.

So today, I'm in the bed reading a "Blessed Life," something I do every morning now, and I hear him drop the S word. He comes in and tells me that the cable is off, I say to him "oh well." I'm not paying it, so when ever he gives me the money I'll pay it. After that, if he wants the cable on, he has to put it in his name. I'll give him my share and what ever he does he does.

You see I can log into my mom's account and watch TV so it's no big deal to me. Besides I haven't been watching that much tv anyway, I've been listening to Dave Ramsey, night and day.

The funny thing is I tried to have a budget meeting with him Monday and last night and he said no.

He has rent, light, water and the plot bill due. If I don't get that money for the plot, I'm simply heading down there and removing his off my account. He pays but he's always late which means he never pays. He has the same careless attitude as his mom. She pays everything late, if at all.

Today he heads to court for past due child support. Back in June, and July the mother just stop paying him. First of all he has the kid, and I've told him time and time again to have this taken care of and he refuses. I've told him to take over the business from the mother and he refuses. I cannot wait to pay off the next two CCs so that I can move into a one bedroom.

So the checks cleared, super excited.

I deposited $8.50 to the EF
$3.83 to the sinking fund, and then paid $72.68 on CC3, my new balance is $1024.91 😀. The goal is to have the balance below the $1,000 mark by December.

I really think that this will happen, matter of fact I know it will, Thursday is payday, and I've budgeted an extra $67 on the snowball😀.

I really feel like I am making some traction. One of my colleagues wanted to go out for happy hour, I thought hmmm why not but then I said nope. I have $25.50 left in my fun money and I've decreased this amount for the next budget period so I'm not wasting it on dining out when I have leftovers.

I'm trucking along solo. I asked the fiancé if he was ready for the budget meeting last night, I was planning on asking those questions I think Credit Card Free, DW or Out of the Dark had mentioned and he said no. Oh well, he can't say I didn't try and that he wasn't told that I was not marrying him if his and/or my finances weren't in order.

I can say this, when you have a budget, pay your tithes and stick to the plan, the raise you've been wanting and haven't received is no big deal. Things are falling into place and I'm excited. I know I have a little way to go but CC3 will be paid off in January, I can tackle CC4, the house will sell in February and most of the debt should be gone 🙏🏾

I could not wait to get to the bank today to deposit my findings of $85.00. I called the bank yesterday and was told, that so long as there wasn't a cash by date, I should be able to cash the checks.

One was actually from 2010, that was the postal money order, same as cash I suppose. The other was from AFLAC written in 2013. The transactions are on hold, so I am waiting for everything to clear before I add this to my snowball (CC3). I am super excited about this .

Today was a no spend day, so I am taking a dollar out of my fun money to add to CC3. I figured for every day I do not have a day in that I spend money, a buck goes towards the debt. I'll keep doing this until the end of the month and add the total to the snowball.

My fiancé said that it was my turn to treat for breakfast, woke up and cooked breakfast 🍳 . No need to spend $35 eating out. We usually rotate but this debt has to go. When asked if I was really cooking breakfast, I said yep and reminded him that I have over $78,000 in debt and that I'm Dave Ramseying. He didn't say a word, and just smiled. I've learned that I can only do what I can for myself. I'm still going to have the weekly meetings so long as he wants to and ask the recommended questions.

In financial news, I saved $55 by washing and coloring my hair, I did the following with the money saved:

* $5.50 EF
* $4.95 Sinking
* $44.55 CC3

Next I was so excited to start the debt BINGO game, that I couldn't wait to pull this week's number, that was $15. So I paid $15 on CC3.

I know the Total Money Makeover states to stop at a $1000 to the EF but I am so scared that something will happen and I'll be back to the credit cards 💳, I want to be able to cash flow everything. I'm only adding to the EF, if I save money like above or come into extra cash. No funds are earmarked for the EF when I create my budget.

The sinking fund I had to create, insurance is due in April and in January my HR certifications are due, I want to have something towards these things.

Went by mom and picked up the pink bows, there was no way I was going to buy any.

So because I didn't want to go out today and be tempted to spend money, I decided to stay home and clean, one of the things, one does when they're broke 😀.

I put the Christian tree up and decorated with the new ornaments, I lost that battle but that's a different story. My mom has a few pink bows I had given her years ago, so I'll pick them up to put on our tree and give her my res ones. Compromise = my sanity and money saved.

I decluttered our living room. There are pictures everywhere and I can't stand that. They get dusty and I'm the only one cleaning them. So I packed them up. I told my SO last night that I wanted to do away with all these photos everywhere.

Next I tackled my desk, and though I am not quite finished, I am pleased. In the mist of my decluttering and cleaning I found a check from AFLAC dated in 2013 for $75, I'm calling them to see if they'll reissue. There's no note to cash within a certain period, so I'm wondering if I can cash it. I also found another check dated, I think in 2015. This is actually a post office money order, I wonder if I can cash this? I'm calling the post office to find out. The next item found is was a $40 lottery scratch off, yay. I took it into the convenient store and cashed out.

I know how some of you feel but tithing is important to me, so I asked for $5 in ones, took my tithe of $4 off and paid $36 to CC number three.

Fiancé insisted on purchasing new ornaments for the Christmas tree🎄. I'll admit I was excited and did not stay strong. I personally did not contribute to this purchase but I didn't stop it either. I feel so bad. Once he wakes up I'm going to ask him to take these items back, it's about $22 worth of tree decorations. I'll ask him to put the amount spent towards his baby step 1. We can always purchase after Christmas for much less. As Dave says, never pay full price.

The plan was to go to Home Depot, he needed something for his business. Then head to Wal*Mart to pick up lights for the tree. Wal*Mart had them for less than $3 while Home Depot was selling for $5.

While in Wal*Mart I saw the PJs I always get for the boys, that was $4.95 each. I had $14 and some change left in my gift envelope so I picked three up for my great nephews. Not bad Christmas gifts 🎁 . I also saw pogo stick for $15 and I thought these would be cool gifts but I didn't have any more money so I left them. The envelope system works.

While at the checkout I couldn't help but feel bad, I cashed out my items, while he rang up his. I was thinking this is wasteful spending. We have Christmas decorations already, why are we buying more? Just to change the theme, ridiculous.

I remembered the conversation we had just before we left as I stood in line. I had reminded him that he still owes me $200 on the CC2. He asked for what and I him it was for the hurricane supplies we bought. I can tell he was frustrated, he says "Oh yes, I remember let me get somethings taken care of, I have a lot on my plate." It hit me while we were checking out, spending money while we're both down is something that has to STOP 🛑. Both of us cannot be spenders, impulses buyers or those who use buying as a tool to "cover up" how we are feeling, it only adds to the problem. His problems is the past due bills and his mother not paying him.

Once we got home I put the items by the door as a reminder to take them back. I sat down at the table to add my $14.25 spent to my gift register, according to my register I should have $.05 left and that is what was in the envelope. However, when I checked my spread sheet I had over spent on gifts this budget period by $5. I can't figure out how. Looking at the tally in the spread sheet column for gifts, it looks right. Either way, if that is the case, I'm taking one of the PJs bought for next year for the fiancé back, and that $5 will go towards my snowball. Not sure how I went over or why the register not the spread sheet matches. Oh wait, I had money left from the previous month. Okay make sense now lol

Edited to add the conversation.
So he's up and I say I'd like to talk now about what we did last night. He's like what. I say, I think the money we spent last night should go towards his baby step 1. He shuts down and says, we'll talk about it later. This is a losing battle. His rationale is that I have a job today and I'll make $1300 that would be my baby step 1. I'm trying to get him to see the bigger picture. If you put $25 towards baby step 1 you only have $975 to go, right now you have $1,000 to go. Isn't it easier to come up with $975 than $1,000. He says I don't think like him, 🤦🏾‍♀️

I asked him if he wanted breakfast and he wanted to know if it was in my budget. Really? I'm officially done.

Second update to this post. I was so mad that I paid CC2 offthis morning. The thought of my checking account dropping below $900 dollars scares me but I did it. On to number three.

Reviewed my envelopes and I have $346 left in all. Not sure what I started out with because a few dollars rolled over and I forgot to jot down how much. I know for the new budget period I withdrew $400. So I can say I've only really spent what carried over. A new period starts on the 30th. The goal is not to let this balance go under $300.

Every week I transfer the loose change to the change jar, this week it was $2.33. So I can say I'm doing pretty good.

I went to JC Penney's because they had men's holiday pajamas for $5. Every year I buy the fiancé a pair as a Christmas gift, I usually spend about $25.

Prior to heading to Penney's I visited the Ebates site because I wanted the 4% cash back, but then noticed the store was charging close to $4 to ship to the store and $9 to ship to the house. Since I was heading to my mom's and Penney's was on the way I stopped by. Picked up two pairs, one for next year. If we're not together I'd give them to my nephew as his gift. I'd budgeted about $100 for him for Christmas but so far has only spent a total of $22. We agreed to keep things at a minimum. I tried to get him to go with the no gifts, but since he's just starting on this process of saving and budgeting, I knew I had to give a little or I'd lose his interest. Compromise 🙄.

I do have one other item to purchase for him, either a watch or cologne and I'm done. I'm sure I can get a good deal on the watch for about $30 leaving me with about $50 to throw at CC2. The kids ( nephews) are getting magazine subscription for $15 each a total of $45 and my neice gets the free $25 MyPoints gift card. My other nephew who is older will get a $25 gift card and I still should have $25 left to throw at the CC2. Though I budgeted $150 total, this is 4x less than I normally spend, I'd like to stay under $125. Next year they'll be a sinking fund for the holidays.

All in all it was a pretty good day. I don't plan on leaving the house for the next two days, saving on gas ⛽️. I also picked up dinner for the next few days from my mom, so I'm good.

Now that I'm Dave Ramseying , lol, I've been on every money site, blog and Facebook group page there is. I saw this yesterday.



It's a BINGO card to save money, each week you pick a number and dump it into your savings. For me challenges are my motivation, so rather than throwing the funds at savings I'll be throwing it at my debt (CC2). There's even a zero to give you a free pass. So starting Monday, I'll be doing this. I realized that the money will be coming from my fun money.

Finally figured out how to check out audiobooks from my local library. I drive a hour each way to and from work so this will be perfect.

I've checked out Dave Ramsey's "Total Money Makeover" and Robert Morris' "Blessed Life." I'm excited about listening. Years ago I checked out Dave's book but just couldn't get into it. So I'm trying it again.

I'm revamping my budget again for the 100th time. I have a few items coming up that I need to cash flow so I'm adding the sinking fund. Dave says it's okay for a few items but don't go overboard while on baby step 2.

I've decided to take the first 10% of my income and tithe, this is not an option. Any money that comes my way, 10% will come off top for tithes. The 3:10 rule has proven to be 100% correct and I'm only about a month in. The next 5% (half of 10%) that comes off top is the sinking fund. Following 2.5% will go towards debt, and all else is budgeted to line items. I simply have to make it work. After reviewing there's no fun money in the pot for the next pay date. I'm okay with that.

I've paid off over $30,000 in debt before so I know I can do it. It took me about 2 years to do it.
I'll continue to budget some fun money, other wards I know if I don't I'll fall off the wagon. And I know this through trial and error. I realize a pay period here or there without fun money isn't going to kill me.

Pay day is next Thursday and my envelopes are pretty stuffed, I'll take some of this a pay down CC2, others I'll keep in my envelopes, paying for those things coming in January. January is going to be a really tough month. I have certifications that are due, license, tag for car etc.

Today of course will be a no spend day. Heading to mom's for dinner and then back home. I may wash my car, that's filthy. Hmm I'll wash it at my mom's and the five dollars 💵 I would have spent will go towards CC2 💳 .

The journey to a financially sound life hasn't been easy, I've made some bad choices, received some tough love and even doubted myself. But I think back to when I originally started this blog, it was tough then too; however, I made it through and for that I am grateful and thankful for this blog, and my extended family who never give up on me. Though my SA blog family at times may sound like a broken record, and you might even say to yourself, I've told her this before but you all keep reminding and pushing me, and I'm thankful for that.

Lastly I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving 🦃

Surfing the blogs and came across a post on using linen napkins vs paper towels, not sure why I haven't thought of this. I have a ton of linen napkins that I use when hosting. I'm going to buy about ten for every day use.

The young lady we donated the food to just got a tv. My coworker gave me a 32" tv for her. That just made my day.

I ended up eating out to day at McDonald's, I wasn't too happy with this but oh well.

So before I read everyone's responses I jumped the gun and did the below with the extra funds. I was feeling good about it but then thought I should have read the responses to my blog about the found money first and did what was recommended. That by the way was to apply all of it to baby step 2. 🤦🏾‍♀️

Found $60
$6 went to tithes (took this from my budgeted pocket money)
$5.40 went to the EF
$4.86 sinking fund ( car insurance, license & tag, and sorority membership)
$49.74 on CC2 debt snowball

In the end, I was able to get the CC2 under $400, I was hoping to do that before the end of the month. New balance 393.53 😀 New goal pay $93.53 on CC2 by the end of December.

Hopefully by January, I can cash flow my license and tag on my car.

So late August I started FPU and I'm glad I did. I won't say it's easy but hey.

In addition to this I started the 3:10 challenge recently. For three months I will give God what belongs to him (10%) and see if He doesn't bless me ( Malachi 3:10). Well I'll say this every dollar I have received, I have taken 10% right off the top and here are those blessings:
* Found $5 in my purse 👛
* Found a $22 gift card

Today I found $60 in a binder that I was cleaning out to create the fiancé's budget planner. Funny thing is, I had this binder since 2014. You can rest assure I took the $6 off the top. I bought tickets to a football game out of my recreation fund and am considering putting the $16 back or just paying the full $54 on the CC.

I also thought about this
* 10% to tithes ($6)
* 10% to EF ($5.40)
* 10% to sinking fund ($4.86)
* Remaining to debt ($43.74)

I know Dave says $1,000 and then tackle the debt but for me I'd like to keep contributing to the EF even if it's a small amount. My car is very old and I'd like to be able to cash flow the next one if Murphy comes. In addition to the sinking fund, I have a few items coming next April like the car insurance. Oops I forgot my renewal for my tag and license is in January, I'm going to need the cash for that too. So I figured a little here and there should do it.

Our second budget meeting went okay.

Initially the fiancé seemed annoyed but as we starting talking he came around. I explain to him that I did not want to get married unless 80% of my debt was paid and 80% of his was paid. He agreed.

He struggled with my zero balance budget. I explain to him that he did not have to work his budget the way that I do but just wanted to show him what a budget was. He thought that we would be combining income and debt. I told him it wasn't recommended since we weren't married. We reviewed the irregular income budget sheet that Dave provided and he likes that.

I decided to create a budget folder him, that way he can see his progress. I felt bad because he wants to this this "together" thing but it's best that we both get things under control before we combine anything. He's not computer savvy at all, so each week we will work on his budget, and I'll create the spreadsheets. His biggest problem is his mother not paying him, he really needs to nip this in the bud.

Today was a no spend day. The boss took us out to lunch. Only problem was the sandwich I had I think went bad. 🤦🏾‍♀️ It's turkey, with honey mustard no cheese and was on the ice pack. It still looks good but I don't know.

The interview didn't go to well. I wasn't too excited about it anyway and really didn't want to go. I have another one lined up next Wednesday.

Revamped my zero balance budget next pay period to include a sinking fund, particularly my car insurance. I totally forgot to sign the new contract providing me basic coverage, so I'll take care of that tomorrow. Items that I need to save up for that is consistent is the car insurance on both vehicles, sorority chapter dues ( thinking about not renewing).

This budget, I included the Christmas fund, only $150. This is for three nephews and fiancé. Fiancé is still up in the air. Today is our weekly budget meeting and I'd like to remove this item. Things aren't going well for us and he knows that I'm not planning a wedding until debt is gone, his as well as mine finances are in order. I really want to discuss how I'm feeling tomorrow, I pray that I get the courage to have this conversation.

I read in one of the Dave Ramsey budgeting groups that I should try a visual, so today that's what I'm going to do. I really hope he's not doing this because of me but for himself as well.

Different note, normally for Thanksgiving I buy a ham, turkey and all the sides to cook. No one ever comes to our house, I just like having my own meals. Last year was the first year we actually had company. This year I'm going to my mom's. I don't know what has come over me but I hate spending money. Though it would cost roughly $25 to buy what I'd cook, I just think it is a waste since we throw out so much food anyway. Besides my mom and his mother cooks a big meal.

I washed my own hair, saving $45 so I paid this amount on CC2, new balance $443.00.

We ran out of ink and since I don't print that much, but still do, I told the fiancé I needed $20 for ink. He's the one that print out bills for his clients. I'm always the one buying, not this time. The ink was $30.47. He gave it to me. I can kick myself because I've told him for weeks we needed ink, did a search and if you order online at Walmart it's $17.97 🤦🏾‍♀️🙄 I hate stupid spending.

I have a job interview today, I know the position calls for more skill,and years of experience but I figured why not? I think the new manager, who I love is looking for a job, can't say I blame him.

So glad we decided to donate Thanksgiving dinner this year.

When drop the food off it was clear that this young lady was need. Her son was so excited to see a bottle of soda and the pie. It reminded me of the small things we take for granted, like the ability to have a Coke every now and then.

The entire meal for the family was a little less than $25. Items purchased:
• turkey
• stuffing
• 2 liter Coke
• 2 liter Sprite
• canned corn (3)
• canned string beans (3)
• dinner rolls
• sweet potato pie
• rice

My heart was broken as I watched the 10 year old's face light up.

Today was a great day, I didn't spend a dime.

We went to a football game, season tickets, and I didn't spend a thing. I took $50 out of my leisure/recreation envelope in case we decided to eat, or I saw something but the fiancé paid the $18 for two cokes and we split a pizza. I almost bought a clear tote though, and he convinced me not to. I'm surprised but glad I didn't.

Other than that I really have nothing to report. Hope everyone enjoyed their Saturday

Cleaned out the refrigerator and had to throw out a half a chicken, five pork chops, rice and left over Chinese chicken. I thought, how shameful. There's someone out there who could have used this food.

I told the fiancé that I will no longer buy and cook these meals. I generally buy the bulk of the groceries and cook, so that he has something but so much of it goes to waste.

My nephew's girlfriend works for a meal prep company and any left over she shares, at least twice a week. I often get these meals and this too goes to waste, because I've cooked and will pack what I cooked for lunch but no more. I'll be eating my free meals, and if the fiancé refuses, that's his choice. He can spend his money buying groceries.

Last budget period I think I spent only $4 on groceries because I stuck with buy, only what you need, and now I'm sticking with buy nothing since you're getting free meals.

Long story short, Dave Ramsey says while going through this process it's rice and beans, I get free meals that are delicious so it makes no sense to spend the money. Here are a few of the meals.






In financial news here's the first half of the month spending. Not so bad this pay past period.



Oops before I forget, I took the $35 budgeted for my contacts and paid on CC2, new balance $488.04. I'd budgeted $45 this week for my hair for the holiday, I don't think I'm going so I'll be throwing this amount at the CC2 as well. Can't wait for this card to be gone.

Sorry for the long post in advance.

So I'm at work and the fiancé calls, immediately I think, WTH does he want? I know if he's calling it's something. So I answer and he starts, "momma called crying, she doesn't have the money to pay the guys." I sit, I listen and I don't say a word. I let him go on explaining how once again she doesn't have the payroll for the guys, how he hates to see a woman cry.

Meanwhile I'm thinking a woman crying is the least of your worries. How can she call you on payday, after lunch to say she can't make payroll? Did she not know this on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday? Unbelievable, I'm so sick of this crap! I've told him time and time again to take over the business and let the accountant bill his clients. He's so adamant about not "hurting his momma's feelings." I mean get out of here! You won't be able to eat, if you don't hurt her feelings. He tells me he's short $240.

We hang up because there's colleagues in the office. I call back after everyone leaves, and low and behold I open my big mouth, and say I can lend it to you, just let me know. WTH was I thinking? Why? At some point he and his momma need to learn a hard lesson. He tells me he'll let me know. At 4:57 I get a text he needs $400. WTF happened to $240? Now I'm more pissed than ever. Then I'm asked what time will I get there? Um I'm not rushing due to both you and your mother's lack of motivation, responsibilities, and respect for others. I deliberately arrive a hour and a half later. I felt bad because his worker was there waiting.

I realized today, I cannot marry this man. Nice doesn't cut it. A good heart doesn't cut it. Things were fine until we decided to live together. He was always late with his share of the bills, sad thing is I didn't realize the reason being is because his mother won't pay him. It's stressful for me. Always bailing out. I do get my money back however it's annoying.

I have about $9K saved in an account at a credit union about 50 miles away. This is part of the money from dad. I deliberately left the funds there, never got a ATM card, just left it. I signed up for FPU because I wanted to learn how to live off of my earnings, manage my money and make better decisions. That money is for a true emergency, my own emergency not someone else's. I was hoping he would have been onboard with the FPU. I'm so glad I did not co-mingle my funds with him. You all were right, he needs to save his own $1,000 for his emergencies.

We're suppose to take holiday photos, I paid the deposit because he didn't have the money. I am texting the young woman to tell her we will be canceling, getting my money back and apply it to the CC2. Ridiculous!

So the young woman we're donating to. He asked me if we were giving away Thanksgiving meals this year. I say no because it's not in my budget, he tells me how he enjoys it and since we started we should continue. I reluctantly give in.

Long story short I figured we'd spend $20 each to get a total of $40 in food, low and behold I'm sure his mom didn't pay him so he won't have the money now I'm stuck. It's fine because it's for a good cause but I had $35 for an item I didn't purchase, and thought I could pay $15 on CC2, after posting here, a pay $20 towards the food. I guess it was just meant to be to spend the $35. Unbelievable!

So I'm not getting married, goal is to pay down CC debt so that I can find a place just for me. He's never going to change and his mom doesn't care how her not paying him impacts his relationship. Then again why should she? I mean, I'm always bailing them out.

So the holidays are coming and I decided to budget a few dollars each pay period. I spoke to the fiancé and told him I wanted to not spend anything on each other but if we did, keep it under $100. Of course he wants to exchange gifts.

Well I ordered the myPoints Macy's gift card for my neice, $25. I set aside $40 this pay period to order a men's sport coat for the fiancé through Macy's. Well I found a gift card I had, and the jacket that was originally $200 cost me $17.67, sweet. I went through the Ebates app and got $1.61 back. Paid cash for by the way lol.

So all bills are paid. This pay period I spent a total of $936.02 on CC/other debt, I can't wait to get these little bugs out of my hair. A total of $215.32 was paid on CC2, this was all extra. I'm officially starting baby step 2 of the Dave Ramsey plan and I'm excited. It took me two months to fulfill baby step 1 but at least I'm there.

I'd budgeted $35 for contacts but decided to hold off again from purchasing, I'm thinking of throwing the $35 towards the CC debt. Reason why I haven't is, a young woman lost her fiancé, she has two small children and she's struggling. I'm thinking about taking this money and buying Thanksgiving dinner for her. I'd budgeted the $40 for gifts and still have $22.39 left that I could use to help her out as well. Everything is on sale and I'm thinking we should be able to get a decent meal for her.

That's it for me, I'll be updating my totals this weekend and sharing.

Well today was pay day and a new budget. I transferred $2.98 from my envelopes to my change jar. I decided to keep what's left in the envelopes in their respective places. I haven't crunch the numbers but I had $10 in the transportation envelope; $65 in the grocery envelope; $6 in the recreation envelope, and the others I can't remember but I was happy with the grocery envelope. I'll definitely review these tomorrow.

So I paid out a nice chunk of change in CC debt today, over $700 😡. I under budgeted this line item by $0.70. The only good thing about this is that I've reached baby step 1 and will be adding an extra $100+ to CC2 debt, so next month this total should be down.

Well I'm heading to bed, tomorrow is a busy day.

Well woke up this morning and the tire is low. I'm not upset, just headed back to the tire company that I had purchased the tires from and that I have the warranty for.

Thankfully it appears to have been the valve that needed to be replaced. I ended up staying home and working in order to watch the tire. Thank goodness there's still air, and all looks well. When I spoke with my manager, he didn't seem too pleased but I was not going to drive 30 miles to get stuck.

I received the check of $587.09 from an old 401(k) I had. I know I should have rolled this over but the balance was low, I'd only contribute for four months. I've added the funds to baby step one to bring me to the $1000. Wrote my check of $58.70 for tithes and will put the difference of $76.72 to CC 2.

I readjusted the budget to start adding the money that would have been going to baby step 1 to tackle CC2. I needed a win other wards I was going to go crazy. This has been one heck of a process. It seems like when I didn't have a budget I paid my debt down quicker, I don't know.

I should have funds left in the envelopes, so I'll throw the change into the change jar, and keep the rest in its respective envelopes.

Today was a no spend day, yay! Plus I've saved on gas since I didn't have to drive 60 miles round trip.

Tonight is our first budget meeting I'll keep you all posted.

As a follow up to the above, I typed it out and never posted, so here's an update.

I realized that the actual amount I have left to pay on CC2 is $157.60 vs the $76+ , plus I'll be adding an extra $57+ on Wednesday, this will knock about $200 off the bill. I'm excited.

So the fiancé and I reviewed video 1 of FPU. He asked that we review the video again each week and discuss where we are until we've completed baby step 1 (jointly). I'm okay with that if it means that this will get him onboard. What he said tonight did make me feel good when he said, "it's not mine or your debt but ours. "

So here's the plan, save $1000 jointly. He's aware that it will be a struggle for me since I'm heading into baby step 2 but I'll contribute. We will review FPU video 1 until we've reached our goal of $1,000. He's committed to adding all extra income from landscaping to baby step one for both of us. We've agreed to complete the home work separately and then together. Our next meeting to review the homework is Thursday. I'm excited because I think together we can make some head way.

Now the tire 🤦🏾‍♀️🙄
Well it's low again, so tomorrow I'll be heading back to the tire store. Hopefully I'll get a new tire for free. I'm not sure what the warranty covers. If for anything at least, I have the cash to buy a new tire, if need be 🤦🏾‍♀️

Had the conversation with the fiancé, our budget nights will be on Mondays. We will start the financial peace university class over, at home.

The conversation wasn't an in depth one but at least it is an start. I explained that I really need for him to be onboard if we are going to make this work. We talked briefly about starting the pre-marital counseling class. Tomorrow will be the full conversation, without distractions, to discuss my long term goals are and what he'd like to do long term.

Not sure what's going on with the site, I keep getting logged out. I wish we had an app.

Since I started the 3:10 challenge, tithing faithfully for three months and watching God work, I can say I experience a miracle today.

Woke up to head to church, and the tire was flat. No big deal, drove the fiancé truck with no a/c. Needless to say, miracle number one, it was a beautiful day. We rode with the windows down and enjoyed the nice cool breeze. I'm in Florida and we seldom experience such cool weather.

Miracle number two, well the fiancé pumped the tire up, drove it to the repair shop and low and behold the tire is perfectly fine. Strange, but I'll take that blessing.

Yesterday was a no spend day, first in I don't know how long. Today I spent $15. Not too happy with that, we bought grapes, chips (I could have done without), juice and a pack of chicken. I didn't realize that the extra 5% off on the grapes ended yesterday. I've figured out I cannot go to the store with the fiancé. Tonight or tomorrow evening I plan on having the budget conversation, but this is the week that it will be done. No need in putting things off.

Though I'd love to sock the $500+ bucks to CC2, I'm going to take the advice of Dave Ramsey and everyone here and knock out baby step 1 and fund my emergency fund. Next, I'll be tackling the debt.

In a previous post some of you commented on the wedding fund. I hadn't noticed that the fund was still in my side bar, lol. Honestly, I forgot about this account and haven't added anything to this account since I opened it. I actually had $80.88 in this account and transferred that money to baby step 1. Not sure what happened with the $20. Until the fiancé is onboard with his/our finances there won't be a wedding. New balance for baby step 1 is now at $624.21 😀

I'll still be able to add close to $200 to CC2, so I'm okay with that.

I've decided to remove the salon 💇🏽, $45 , as a line item on my next budget. This is going to be hard because this means that I won't go to the salon except once for the month. My hair is horrible to manage but I'm going to try.

For those of you who follow me, my last post for charitable items were funds that was given to church (God), my tithes. I'm definitely going to continue with that. One, I know it's the right thing to do, two, Dave Ramsey has said it's the right thing to do, lol and three my SA family has also said it's the right thing to do. But seriously, I've always given to church but not my 10%. Our church has a 3:10 challenge. Meaning for three months you donate your 10% to church, any church, or charity for 3 months and if God does not work miracles and bless you, they'll give us our money back. What I like about this challenge, is that they simply encourage us to give and it doesn't have to be to my own church. 3:10 is from Malachi 3:10, in that God says to "test Him" with our tithes, the only scripture in the Bible in that God says to test him. I can say, since I've done this, I've seen a difference in how I feel about my job, I'm no longer worried, tossing and turning at night. And by mid week next week my EF will be funded until I can hit baby 3, to fully fund it. It's strange because now every extra dollar I get, I take 10% off. The fiancé gave me $45 and I took $4.50 off top.

It's a progress but I enjoy telling my money what to do and it not telling me what to do.

I'd budgeted $35 for my contacts but since I didn't order them I put this money towards baby step 1 (EF) bringing the total to $548.33.
I've been wearing my glasses 👓 to save money, until I can knock a few things out of the way.

I'm a little annoyed because I got suckered into a Thanksgiving lunch at the office, costing me $12. One, I don't want to spend the $12; two, as you all know I can't stand my boss' boss ( along with everyone else on the floor); and three, we're down two people and I don't have any help with a bunch of work. Though I'm thankful for my job, this is just the wrong time.

Today was the first time in a long time that I did not have to spend a dime, so I'm excited about that.

Tomorrow is Veterans Day and I'm off. I haven't told a soul because I don't want to be aggravated. I'll wash my car, paint my toes and just relax. I'm really looking forward to this time.

Lastly, I needed some facial wash and moisturizer. Normally I buy the expensive stuff, Sephora or Clinique but I opted for good 'ol Nuetreogena this time and for the two items the cost was $11.95 vs almost $50 bucks. I ordered via iBotta for the 2% cash back. Why not? Sales tax here is 7% so at least I can save on that. Something is better than nothing.
Hmmm just thought about it, though I ordered online, I still spent money. Lol so no spend day for me.

Looking at my spending for the last budget period I am very upset. Though I stayed within budget, there are areas that I can definitely improve.

One pay down the CC so that I'm not paying so much interests, over $300, this is ridiculous. I'm expecting a check for about $600, I'm going to use this to pay off CC 2.





Cable, the fiancé likes all the premium channels plus the HDTV. I'll be sitting him down over the next weekend and having a tough conversation. I can do without the premium and HDTV channels so if he wants them, I'm no longer going to pay half. It's ridiculous, I do like the high speed internet, I'm okay with that but the other stuff, I'm done. Groceries, not too bad, I'm over by $15 in this area. I'll work on this as well. Money gram $39 fee is what was charged to stop payment on two money orders. Not sure why this showed up on the report.
Miscellaneous consists of a plot, I'm paying on, checks ordered etc.

I made both BBQ and smothered pork chops. This will be for dinner and lunch for the next few days. If the fiancé doesn't like it, he can buy dinner.

Went to Target to pick up a few items (Coke, bacon, orange juice, and grapes).

The grapes I usually eat as a snack vs chips but they weren't on sale, so I left them. The bacon I have a slice for breakfast and there was a 5% off. I also have orange juice on the weekends with breakfast, this tend to last a while but I could not find the Target brand in our store that had the 5%. The fiancé insisted that we go ahead and pick up, I hate shopping with him. And the Coke, I pack for lunch. I have one can a day, this is down from about 2-3. I really need to work on this, by drinking more water.

So we make it to the check out and I start to separate my items from the fiancé's and he becomes annoyed and decided to pay for everything. I say to him, I'm okay with that and I'm on a strict budget. Once we get into the car I say to him that he really needs to get onboard with me or things aren't going to work. I made a list and let's stick to it. He always heads in the store and picks up items that A) we don't need and b) unhealthy and expensive. I realize that I may be the issue as well. I try my best not to mention budget but when I go into the store, I'm paying with what's been budgeted and applied to my envelopes, I don't need him picking up $24 bags of candy, $4 cookies etc.

As with DW and Monkey Momma today's dinner is based on what we already have in the pantry. I'm using what we have first. I'm so excited about the journey that I'm on and it's draining when you love someone who you know have the potential to be great, and not struggle and opts not to even try.

My sorority anniversary is coming up. The girls decided to go to an up scale steak house, so I decided to check out the menu and everything is a la carte.

For me alone dinner, will be close to $60+ and I'm not in the mood to spend that nor can I afford it. Even if I budgeted for it, I'd have to cut something else out, and my budget is already tight. I say to myself what Dave Ramsey says, "live like no one else, so that you can live like no one else."

I'm starting early with the Christmas shopping. I found a men sports coat for $37 for the fiancé at Macy's. I buy him one every year. I have a 30% off coupon for tomorrow, but I budgeted to purchase the coat the next zero balance budget period. I was tempted to order but it's called discipline, I'm sure they'll be more coupons between now and the 15th.

I'll be ordering the $25 myPoints Macy's gift card and providing this to my neice as her Christmas gift.

The boys (nephews) I have no clue what to get them. They're ages are 5, 7, 7 and 13. I haven't bought my mom a gift in about 8 years. The woman is so ungrateful and she always seem to manage to hurt your feelings when you do. I'm considering getting her something but I don't know.

Crazy day today.

Rolled a total of $39 in change, adding this to the EF (baby step 1) for a total now of $513.33.

We needed paper towels for the house so I ordered online through iBotta for the 20% cash back, which ended up saving me even more. Wal*Mart provided an extra $1.12 discount for in store pick up. Amazingly the process was pretty easy and quick. I think when I need household items such as garbage bags and cleaning supplies, I'll go this route.

While in Wal*Mart I almost bought waffles but as DW mentioned in another one of my posts, this is not needed, we have bread so I can make toast in the mornings.

Went to Target to get the tissue, I know DW spoke against this but I need it for the job. Sometimes I have to blow my nose and it tends to last awhile. Good thing about this trip to Target I only picked up what I needed and that was one box of tissue. I also took advantage of the $0.05 for brining your own bag, this saved me on the taxes.

Went to the salon, I go only twice a month vs the four times now. This is something I will not cut out and it's okay. I've managed to cut back on the number of times I go, I relax and color my own hair. By doing this, it has really saved me big bucks. By cutting just a few things vs not depriving myself totally, I think it helps me to stay focus and not crashing. I have cut out the pedicures completely, opting for home pedicures.