Online banking and debit cards have made me lazy in the financial responsibility department. I stopped using a ledger more than a year ago. The only check I write is for MDO each month. During the summer I realized I waste a lot of money so I started keeping a written ledger of all money and expenses. I update it each week. Then check it against my online account. I really like the ideas on this blog about using envelopes. The blog also encourages you to go a week without using your debit card to raise awareness of the extras you purchase.
My biggest dumb expense is stops to Bush's for a sweet tea or Sonic during happy hour. To help with my unplanned spending I allot myself so much in quick stops by placing a $5 each week in my glove compartment. When that is spent I cannot make any extra stops. Any money left the next Monday goes into my piggy bank or is given to my daughters for theirs. I do not add it to the next week.
I also save money by meal planning and shopping alone. It seems minor but it truly saves a bundle when you know exactly what to get, have a cash budget to remain within and no kids or hubby's begging for this or that. Our breakfast, lunch and dinners are planned for a two to three week period. Then I normally have two extra meals that are super easy like hot dogs or spaghetti. And of course I keep back-up breakfasts like cereal on hand. I have started doing freezer meals.
These help me cut cost because some recipes are for 6-8 portions. By making ahead and freezing I don't have the waste of leftovers that never get eaten. I love that.
I'm at 1015 Pins. I wonder if you can max out on Pins?!!
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