We spent a LOT of money yesterday. Especially for a no spend month, can you guess how much?
If you guessed $136, then you would be right.
I know, I know....please wipe that look of shock off your face. :)
You see, we also have another goal for this year: spend money on no more than 100 days. This is proving to be quite the challenge.
So, when Hubs said he wanted to take me to Texas Roadhouse for my birthday dinner, I knew I had to stop at the grocery store and pay the plumber (our water heater broke, and needed to be replaced).
That brings our total to $179/$250.
I knew our expenses would be slightly higher than our previous no spend month because my birthday with thrown in there, but I did not anticipate replacing the water heater.
Oh well, I am still quite hopeful that we will be near our $250 goal. It will be a challenge, but we plan to give it our best shot!
How are you doing on your no spend month? Am I the only one out there?
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Friday, January 4, 2013
Blessings From A No Spend Month
Each and every time my husband and I do a no spend month, I am amazed at how blessed we truly are.
.......and another realization I have is, why don't I utilize this blessing each and every month?
Hubs and I received his paycheck this morning, so I paid/scheduled bills. His paycheck was smaller than normal. Huge bummer, but I began paying bills and was able to pay all our bills AND about $150 in addition debt. AMAZING!
God blesses you in great ways. Please do not waste/ignore the blessings he has showered upon you. I know that I will try my best to use the blessings I have received for Him!
Thursday, January 3, 2013
No Spend Month
We have entered our 3rd no spend month! YEAH!
Hubs and I have restricted our spending to no more than $250 for the month, which is only about 25% of our variable spending during any other month.
It will be a challenge, but let's see how we do!
Here is an update on the last couple of days, I will try my best to update daily...but, things do get a little crazy around here. :)
1/1 - $0
1/2 - $15 (ice cream sundae toppings, ice cream, cheeries, milk)
1/3 - $28 (christmas presents, bread, bacon, soda)
So far, our total is $43/$250. That number is higher than I would like, but....hopefully we will have no need to run to the grocery store for a while!
Although, I just remembered we are out of potatoes....oh well, meals will get creative this week! :)
Was the $43 ONLY for necessities, umm....no! But, I justify the expenses. The $15 was spent on an ice cream "date" with some good friends of ours (I fed 10 people ice cream sundaes for $15!).
Secondly, in order to comply with my goal for 2013, I have begun Christmas shopping with rewards/giftcards....all of which I got for free! I have purchased 4 gifts, so far, and I have only spent $0.40 on gifts. AWESOME! Oh, and I still have $29 in rewards/giftcards to spend on future gifts! I will be shopping!!! :)
And, the bacon is for my favorite Daddy! He loves bacon wrapped little smokies, and I am making him some for our Christmas get together this Saturday!
Are you doing a no spend month? Will you join me? It's not too late!
Hubs and I have restricted our spending to no more than $250 for the month, which is only about 25% of our variable spending during any other month.
It will be a challenge, but let's see how we do!
Here is an update on the last couple of days, I will try my best to update daily...but, things do get a little crazy around here. :)
1/1 - $0
1/2 - $15 (ice cream sundae toppings, ice cream, cheeries, milk)
1/3 - $28 (christmas presents, bread, bacon, soda)
So far, our total is $43/$250. That number is higher than I would like, but....hopefully we will have no need to run to the grocery store for a while!
Although, I just remembered we are out of potatoes....oh well, meals will get creative this week! :)
Was the $43 ONLY for necessities, umm....no! But, I justify the expenses. The $15 was spent on an ice cream "date" with some good friends of ours (I fed 10 people ice cream sundaes for $15!).
Secondly, in order to comply with my goal for 2013, I have begun Christmas shopping with rewards/giftcards....all of which I got for free! I have purchased 4 gifts, so far, and I have only spent $0.40 on gifts. AWESOME! Oh, and I still have $29 in rewards/giftcards to spend on future gifts! I will be shopping!!! :)
And, the bacon is for my favorite Daddy! He loves bacon wrapped little smokies, and I am making him some for our Christmas get together this Saturday!
Are you doing a no spend month? Will you join me? It's not too late!
Monday, December 31, 2012
2013 Goals
2012 has been a great year for us. We have been blessed beyond our wildest dreams, and are anxious to see what 2013 holds. :)
As the new year begins, most people make resolutions or goals in order to make the most of the upcoming year; I am no different.
One thing I can promise you won't be on my goal list is, wait anxiously for the arrival of little Kimye. Seriously...over it. And it was only announced a few days ago.
Anyway....
My goals are:
1) Spend quality time, individually, with each of my children. Take them on "dates", and make memories. :)
2) Go on more dates with my hubby. I seriously think we only went out twice in 2012. Sad. :(
3) Accomplish 2 no spend months. We have one planned for January, and the next will probably be in July.
4) Stick to our 2013 budget, even more closely than I have in previous years.
5) Purchase at least 50% of our Christmas gifts using Amazon gift cards acquired from Swagbucks (click the icon to the right for more info and to sign up!).
6) Spend money on no more than 100 days for the entire year. Fixed expenses not included.
7) Continue to support my husband to achieve any and all goals he has personally, financially, and career-wise.
8) Keep my blog up to date, and help like-minded people by sharing some tricks I have learned over the years (primarily financially speaking).
9) Try not to cry on Jack and Ady's first day of school in the fall.
10) Take more pictures, and keep images organized on our computer.
Well, those are my goals for 2013. What are yours? Do you have financial goals? Is there anything I can do to help you achieve them?
Happy New Year and many blessings to you and your family!
As the new year begins, most people make resolutions or goals in order to make the most of the upcoming year; I am no different.
One thing I can promise you won't be on my goal list is, wait anxiously for the arrival of little Kimye. Seriously...over it. And it was only announced a few days ago.
Anyway....
My goals are:
1) Spend quality time, individually, with each of my children. Take them on "dates", and make memories. :)
2) Go on more dates with my hubby. I seriously think we only went out twice in 2012. Sad. :(
3) Accomplish 2 no spend months. We have one planned for January, and the next will probably be in July.
4) Stick to our 2013 budget, even more closely than I have in previous years.
5) Purchase at least 50% of our Christmas gifts using Amazon gift cards acquired from Swagbucks (click the icon to the right for more info and to sign up!).
6) Spend money on no more than 100 days for the entire year. Fixed expenses not included.
7) Continue to support my husband to achieve any and all goals he has personally, financially, and career-wise.
8) Keep my blog up to date, and help like-minded people by sharing some tricks I have learned over the years (primarily financially speaking).
9) Try not to cry on Jack and Ady's first day of school in the fall.
10) Take more pictures, and keep images organized on our computer.
Well, those are my goals for 2013. What are yours? Do you have financial goals? Is there anything I can do to help you achieve them?
Happy New Year and many blessings to you and your family!
Friday, December 28, 2012
Plan for Future Repairs
So....today we had a homeowner fatality. Our water heater is no longer working (I am dying for a hot shower).
We quickly called a local plumber, and he was down to our house in 10 minutes (can't bet small town service!). Thankfully, most of the cost for replacing the water heater will be covered under the warrantee (we just have to pay for labor).
But, this "loss" reminded me of a spread sheet I created (I actually made it even before we purchased a house!). This spread sheet lists the average life expectancy of different appliances/structural items within your house (follow the link for an even more detailed list of appliance/home life expectancies), as well as the average cost to replace. Then, I broke the cost down into a yearly total, and finally a monthly total.
Most people don't even think about future costs/repairs...but, you have to be prepared so you do not find yourself turning to a credit card (or worse yet a pay day advance!).
Take the above spread sheet and incorporate this into your budget for 2013. Using the averages (the life expectancy/replacement cost is all based on the average life/cost, your actual cost may be less or more) to help you prepare for the unexpected.
Oh, and don't worry. You don't need to back date for "older appliances". The likely hood of you having to replace all these items according to the life expectancy is rare. Just start saving the monthly total, and you should be pretty well set for when items need to be replaced.
Also, you can easily customize this spread sheet to fit your specific needs. For example, if you have your eye on a particular dishwasher....replace the average price with the cost of your "wish list" item. The total will adjust accordingly, so you will have a better grasp on what you will really be spending when it comes time to replace your appliances.
E-mail me at jennifer.overy@gmail.com if you would like me to send you the spread sheet. :)
Added tip! Check Craigslist or similar sites in your area to find slightly used appliances. You will save a TON!!!!
Also, if you are not yet a home owner, please take these numbers into consideration. Your housing costs should not exceed 35% of your income. That's mortgage, insurance, property taxes, utilities, AND repairs.
We quickly called a local plumber, and he was down to our house in 10 minutes (can't bet small town service!). Thankfully, most of the cost for replacing the water heater will be covered under the warrantee (we just have to pay for labor).
Most people don't even think about future costs/repairs...but, you have to be prepared so you do not find yourself turning to a credit card (or worse yet a pay day advance!).
Take the above spread sheet and incorporate this into your budget for 2013. Using the averages (the life expectancy/replacement cost is all based on the average life/cost, your actual cost may be less or more) to help you prepare for the unexpected.
Oh, and don't worry. You don't need to back date for "older appliances". The likely hood of you having to replace all these items according to the life expectancy is rare. Just start saving the monthly total, and you should be pretty well set for when items need to be replaced.
Also, you can easily customize this spread sheet to fit your specific needs. For example, if you have your eye on a particular dishwasher....replace the average price with the cost of your "wish list" item. The total will adjust accordingly, so you will have a better grasp on what you will really be spending when it comes time to replace your appliances.
E-mail me at jennifer.overy@gmail.com if you would like me to send you the spread sheet. :)
Added tip! Check Craigslist or similar sites in your area to find slightly used appliances. You will save a TON!!!!
Also, if you are not yet a home owner, please take these numbers into consideration. Your housing costs should not exceed 35% of your income. That's mortgage, insurance, property taxes, utilities, AND repairs.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Review of March Budget Goals
Goals for the month of March
- Keep $500 in savings. Nope, but we spent it on debt reduction.
- Stay current on all bills. Complete! :)
- Create my "debt repayment time-line". Done!
- Save money, as much as possible (at least $1000)
- Update budget.
- Use only cash for our everyday expenses.
What are your financial goals? How did you do last month (or over the last several months, like me)? Good luck!
Review of March Goals
We are in the fourth month into 2010! Time is flying, seriously I can't believe it.
Sorry I didn't post this at the beginning of the month. I thought about it, I really did. I just never got around to updating my goals.
Anyway, here is how March turned out.
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
I don't think we went on any dates this month. But, that okay because we are well on our way to meeting our goal for the year. 3/4 dates completed! :)
Be better about communicating.
Awesome! We spend some time talking about Z's past relationship with his former fiance. It was difficult for me to listen to even more details of the story, but it was good for our relationship. She hurt him so badly, and even to this day it still effects our relationship.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
Yep, yep, yep! I posted so much, you guys are probably tired of it! :)
Host more giveaways.
The Vintage Pearl was a fabulous giveaway last month, and I have a couple more in the works!
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
The only thing I read is blogs. Seriously, I haven't opened a book in the long time. I spend hours reading a day, but it is usually in front of the computer or on my phone.
Keep my car clean.
Complete! I have been doing really well with this, even though it might surprise those of you who know me. I am in the process of writing a post about how I am organizing my vehicle.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
My husband and I have been doing a better job about switching off the duties with each of the children. Usually I have Jack, and he has Ady...but, we are trying to switch it up so each child gets some time with the other parent. Not that I don't see/talk to the other child, but we just focus our attention on the one child for an hour or so a night. Otherwise it is "group" play. :).
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
We are still caught up on bills, but we no long have our savings cushion. :( It killed me to use it, but it was in our best interest. We were able to settle with a credit card company for significantly less than we owed, so we jumped at the chance to eliminate one of our credit cards.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
Accomplished!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Done, you can view it here. However, it will be changing soon because we are getting rid of the truck! I am so excited!!!! That frees up a LOT of money each month.
The reason we didn't get rid of it before is because Z needs this truck for work, but APX is now providing him (and all their technicians) with new vehicles. (He is excited!) Anyway, we have no need for three vehicles. So, we are getting rid of the truck!
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Nada.
Keep a daily food journal.
Nope.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Haha!
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Currently telling myself this....
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
No, no, no.
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Sorry I didn't post this at the beginning of the month. I thought about it, I really did. I just never got around to updating my goals.
Anyway, here is how March turned out.
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
I don't think we went on any dates this month. But, that okay because we are well on our way to meeting our goal for the year. 3/4 dates completed! :)
Be better about communicating.
Awesome! We spend some time talking about Z's past relationship with his former fiance. It was difficult for me to listen to even more details of the story, but it was good for our relationship. She hurt him so badly, and even to this day it still effects our relationship.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
Yep, yep, yep! I posted so much, you guys are probably tired of it! :)
Host more giveaways.
The Vintage Pearl was a fabulous giveaway last month, and I have a couple more in the works!
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
The only thing I read is blogs. Seriously, I haven't opened a book in the long time. I spend hours reading a day, but it is usually in front of the computer or on my phone.
Keep my car clean.
Complete! I have been doing really well with this, even though it might surprise those of you who know me. I am in the process of writing a post about how I am organizing my vehicle.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
My husband and I have been doing a better job about switching off the duties with each of the children. Usually I have Jack, and he has Ady...but, we are trying to switch it up so each child gets some time with the other parent. Not that I don't see/talk to the other child, but we just focus our attention on the one child for an hour or so a night. Otherwise it is "group" play. :).
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
We are still caught up on bills, but we no long have our savings cushion. :( It killed me to use it, but it was in our best interest. We were able to settle with a credit card company for significantly less than we owed, so we jumped at the chance to eliminate one of our credit cards.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
Accomplished!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Done, you can view it here. However, it will be changing soon because we are getting rid of the truck! I am so excited!!!! That frees up a LOT of money each month.
The reason we didn't get rid of it before is because Z needs this truck for work, but APX is now providing him (and all their technicians) with new vehicles. (He is excited!) Anyway, we have no need for three vehicles. So, we are getting rid of the truck!
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Nada.
Keep a daily food journal.
Nope.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Haha!
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Currently telling myself this....
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
No, no, no.
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Friday, March 5, 2010
Paying off Debt
We paid off CC #2 today! We were able to settle with the company for about 60% of what we owed! So, I am very excited....to say the least.
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC #1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011.
CC #2: Goal of 15 months, estimated pay off date June 1st, 2011.
CC #3: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st. 2012.
So, here is our new repayment time-line!
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC#1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011
CC #3: Goal of 23 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
I know that it doesn't look like much, but we are getting closer!!! Let's hope we randomly inherit some money....wouldn't that be awesome?!?!
The downside of paying this off earlier is, we took away from our savings. We have only $250 in our "account"....but, we have plans to replace this in April when we will have an extra pay check. Please, hold me accountable!
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC #1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011.
CC #3: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st. 2012.
So, here is our new repayment time-line!
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC#1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011
CC #3: Goal of 23 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
I know that it doesn't look like much, but we are getting closer!!! Let's hope we randomly inherit some money....wouldn't that be awesome?!?!
The downside of paying this off earlier is, we took away from our savings. We have only $250 in our "account"....but, we have plans to replace this in April when we will have an extra pay check. Please, hold me accountable!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Debt Repayment Timeline
So, I told you I would post it...and here it is. It is going to take us forever, but hopefully the time will go quickly. Once we get that darn truck paid off we can throw all our extra money at our other debt. Yippee yeah!
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC #1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011.
CC #2: Goal of 15 months, estimated pay off date June 1st, 2011.
CC #3: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st. 2012
Truck Loan: Goal of 12 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2011.
CC #1: Goal of 13 months, estimated pay off date Apr. 1st, 2011.
CC #2: Goal of 15 months, estimated pay off date June 1st, 2011.
CC #3: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
CC #4: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st, 2012.
Student Loan: Goal of 24 months, estimated pay off date Mar. 1st. 2012
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Budget Review/Goals
It has been an eternity since the last time I posted, relating to our budget. So, I thought I would take a stab at it.
Here is our old monthly budget ($2488.21/monthly):
And here is our "new" budget that we have been following for the last couple of months ($2,052.83/monthly):
Here is what I set as our goals, way back in October. Haha.
1. Stay under budget for groceries.
We have been doing pretty well with staying under a certain amount for groceries...however, there is always room for improvement.
2. Readjust budget to better suit our needs.
Paying off debt with our income tax return really helped our financial situation. Now, we just need to start throwing the "extra" money at our debt.
3. Find ways to increase our monthly income and reduce our expenses.
I continue to baby sit, making approximately $50 per week. But, otherwise we haven't increased our income by much. We are having a garage sale in April...so that will help.
4. Create a way to better understand our budget....do they make a "Creating a Budget for Dummies"? Haha.
Still don't always understand it, but I am getting better at sticking to it.
Goals for the month of March:
Here is our old monthly budget ($2488.21/monthly):
| Electric/Gas | $70.00 |
| Credit Card #1 | $15.00 |
| Car Loan | $174.00 |
| Truck Loan | $663.00 |
| Credit Card #2 | $21.00 |
| City Water | $32.00 |
| Credit Card #3 | $0.00 |
| Gas - Auto | $40.00 |
| Credit Card #4 | $39.00 |
| Groceries | $217.00 |
| Water - Sanitation | $14.00 |
| Internet | $19.95 |
| Car Insurance | $123.86 |
| Rent | $500.00 |
| Student Loan | $35.00 |
| Cell Phone | $88.59 |
| Totals | $2,052.40 |
And here is our "new" budget that we have been following for the last couple of months ($2,052.83/monthly):
| Electric/Gas | $121.00 |
| Credit Card #1 | $15.00 |
| Car Loan | $0.00 :) |
| Truck Loan | $663.00 |
| Credit Card #2 | $0.00 |
| City Water | $40.00 |
| Credit Card #3 | $0.00 |
| Gas - Auto | $25.00 |
| Credit Card #4 | $0.00 |
| Groceries | $300.00 |
| Water - Sanitation | $18.00 |
| Internet | $19.95 |
| Car Insurance | $123.86 |
| Rent | $500.00 |
| Student Loan | $38.00 |
| Cell Phone | $78.00 |
| Totals | $1940.81 |
Here is what I set as our goals, way back in October. Haha.
1. Stay under budget for groceries.
We have been doing pretty well with staying under a certain amount for groceries...however, there is always room for improvement.
2. Readjust budget to better suit our needs.
Paying off debt with our income tax return really helped our financial situation. Now, we just need to start throwing the "extra" money at our debt.
3. Find ways to increase our monthly income and reduce our expenses.
I continue to baby sit, making approximately $50 per week. But, otherwise we haven't increased our income by much. We are having a garage sale in April...so that will help.
4. Create a way to better understand our budget....do they make a "Creating a Budget for Dummies"? Haha.
Still don't always understand it, but I am getting better at sticking to it.
Goals for the month of March:
- Keep $500 in savings.
- Stay current on all bills.
- Create my "debt repayment time-line".
Monday, March 1, 2010
Review of Goals
We are two months into 2010! Time is flying, seriously I can't believe it. Anyway, I plan to update my yearly goals (if you missed that post, click here) at the beginning of each month, so....here is how February turned out.
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
This is working out really well. So far we have been on one date each month....and one extra in February if you count going to register my vehicle while the kiddos spent some time with Grandma. Yeah, we will count that as a date, since they are generally few and far between. I love that I am at least accomplishing one goal :).
Be better about communicating.
Hmm...I would say we are better, but we still have some work to do. For me it is so easy to snap at him (trying to avoid taking it out on my children) when I am stressed out about something. Take our recent trip to Missouri as an example: We were driving home...it was late...we were hungry...Jack wanted to get out and run...and there wasn't ANYWHERE to stop for the next 30 miles. Seriously, I freaked. I was bawling in the front seat, right along with Jackers who was screaming in the backseat. Sigh. Anyway, I really need to work on this.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
I posted 28 times in the month of February...so, totally rockin' it on this goal. :)
Host more giveaways.
Second one was completed yesterday, picking the winner later this afternoon!
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
Nope. I don't think I have read anything. Other than: blog frog, facebook/twitter updates, blogs, and a little local news. It is a lot of reading, but not from an actual book. Oh well, at least I am reading.
Keep my car clean.
I cleaned it! And I have been keeping it clean, my husband on the other hand has not! It is really annoying. For our trip to Missouri he needed to transfer some of his tools (which have to be stored in his truck while working) into my car to make room for the car seats and all the extra stuff! Well, when we got back....he didn't take out all his stuff. I was really annoyed. I am going to tell him this afternoon that if it isn't out by the next time I go to my car I am dumping it in the trash. That usually gets his butt moving. Hehe.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
Been better. Zach took Ady with him to my parents one night, and Jackers and I got to hang out. It was a lot of fun!
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
We are totally caught up on our bills, and have some money in savings! Yeah!
Don't acquire any additional debt.
No additional debt has been acquired! YEAH!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Haven't done this yet, mostly because I totally forgot about it. I will have to get right on that.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Bahaha! This is a funny goal.
Keep a daily food journal.
Didn't happen.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
64 oz of soda counts, right?
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
That is what I did all month.
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
Didn't do this either, do you miss my weight loss struggles?
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
This is working out really well. So far we have been on one date each month....and one extra in February if you count going to register my vehicle while the kiddos spent some time with Grandma. Yeah, we will count that as a date, since they are generally few and far between. I love that I am at least accomplishing one goal :).
Be better about communicating.
Hmm...I would say we are better, but we still have some work to do. For me it is so easy to snap at him (trying to avoid taking it out on my children) when I am stressed out about something. Take our recent trip to Missouri as an example: We were driving home...it was late...we were hungry...Jack wanted to get out and run...and there wasn't ANYWHERE to stop for the next 30 miles. Seriously, I freaked. I was bawling in the front seat, right along with Jackers who was screaming in the backseat. Sigh. Anyway, I really need to work on this.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
I posted 28 times in the month of February...so, totally rockin' it on this goal. :)
Host more giveaways.
Second one was completed yesterday, picking the winner later this afternoon!
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
Nope. I don't think I have read anything. Other than: blog frog, facebook/twitter updates, blogs, and a little local news. It is a lot of reading, but not from an actual book. Oh well, at least I am reading.
Keep my car clean.
I cleaned it! And I have been keeping it clean, my husband on the other hand has not! It is really annoying. For our trip to Missouri he needed to transfer some of his tools (which have to be stored in his truck while working) into my car to make room for the car seats and all the extra stuff! Well, when we got back....he didn't take out all his stuff. I was really annoyed. I am going to tell him this afternoon that if it isn't out by the next time I go to my car I am dumping it in the trash. That usually gets his butt moving. Hehe.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
Been better. Zach took Ady with him to my parents one night, and Jackers and I got to hang out. It was a lot of fun!
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
We are totally caught up on our bills, and have some money in savings! Yeah!
Don't acquire any additional debt.
No additional debt has been acquired! YEAH!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Haven't done this yet, mostly because I totally forgot about it. I will have to get right on that.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Bahaha! This is a funny goal.
Keep a daily food journal.
Didn't happen.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
64 oz of soda counts, right?
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
That is what I did all month.
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
Didn't do this either, do you miss my weight loss struggles?
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Review of Goals
We are one month into the New Year! Time is flying, seriously I can't believe it. Anyway, I plan to update my yearly goals (if you missed that post, click here) at the beginning of each month, so....here is how January turned out.
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
We have gone on one date. We have plans to go on another one in the near future, as soon as our baby sitter gets home from vacation!
Be better about communicating.
I think, we have been really good at communicating. We haven't argued all year, so far. Lol. There are times when we are short with each other, and we need to work on that. That is mostly me. I just get frazzled sometimes, and take it out on him. I am sorry, honey!!!
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
I posted over 40 times in the month of January....so, definitely accomplished this goal this last month.
Host more giveaways.
I am currently hosting one now, yeah....go ahead and enter. ;o)
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
I am currently reading a book....it is taking me forever to get through because I don't make time for it. But, I am reading more than I was last year. So, goal is right on track.
Keep my car clean.
It is just too darn cold to get my car cleaned up to were I like it right now. So, it still looks the same as it did in December. I have plans on cleaning it out this week (while my parents are gone and I can use their garage), and once I do I will keep it clean.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
I have been better about this. Especially with Ady. Z and I usually "split up" the kid duty....he takes Ady and I take Jackers. So, I have been trying to make more of an effort to switch this up, so we both get equal time with our little ones.
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
Eh, we have been doing okay with this. We will be better once we finally get our income tax return....then we will be completely caught up, and even eliminate some of our debt. I talked about that, here.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
No additional debt has been acquired! YEAH!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
I plan on doing this after we have received our income tax return. We are eliminating debt with this money, so I will reevaluate after we have made a reduction in our overall debt.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
I did really good with this every week except the last one. I have been really getting off track with weight loss. I am in the process of writing a post about it now.
Keep a daily food journal.
Didn't happen.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Beginning of the month I was really good about it, but slowly stopped as the month dragged on.
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Nope, that didn't happen. I actually chuckled when I read this, because this is exactly what I have been doing.
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
Writing about this now, expect a post in a couple of days ;o)!
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
We have gone on one date. We have plans to go on another one in the near future, as soon as our baby sitter gets home from vacation!
Be better about communicating.
I think, we have been really good at communicating. We haven't argued all year, so far. Lol. There are times when we are short with each other, and we need to work on that. That is mostly me. I just get frazzled sometimes, and take it out on him. I am sorry, honey!!!
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
I posted over 40 times in the month of January....so, definitely accomplished this goal this last month.
Host more giveaways.
I am currently hosting one now, yeah....go ahead and enter. ;o)
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
I am currently reading a book....it is taking me forever to get through because I don't make time for it. But, I am reading more than I was last year. So, goal is right on track.
Keep my car clean.
It is just too darn cold to get my car cleaned up to were I like it right now. So, it still looks the same as it did in December. I have plans on cleaning it out this week (while my parents are gone and I can use their garage), and once I do I will keep it clean.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
I have been better about this. Especially with Ady. Z and I usually "split up" the kid duty....he takes Ady and I take Jackers. So, I have been trying to make more of an effort to switch this up, so we both get equal time with our little ones.
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
Eh, we have been doing okay with this. We will be better once we finally get our income tax return....then we will be completely caught up, and even eliminate some of our debt. I talked about that, here.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
No additional debt has been acquired! YEAH!
Create a time line for debt reduction.
I plan on doing this after we have received our income tax return. We are eliminating debt with this money, so I will reevaluate after we have made a reduction in our overall debt.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
I did really good with this every week except the last one. I have been really getting off track with weight loss. I am in the process of writing a post about it now.
Keep a daily food journal.
Didn't happen.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Beginning of the month I was really good about it, but slowly stopped as the month dragged on.
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Nope, that didn't happen. I actually chuckled when I read this, because this is exactly what I have been doing.
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
Writing about this now, expect a post in a couple of days ;o)!
How are you doing with your goals for 2010?
Monday, January 11, 2010
Date Night #1
Hubs and I went on our first day of the year, it was one of my goals....remember???I have also decided that the restaurant/activity we do will be something that we (as a couple) have never done. So, we decided on a restaurant...the Cracker Barrel....that Z had never been too.
We both really enjoyed ourselves, and got a couple cute gifts for the kiddos and baby-sitter (Grandma =D).
Anyway, here are some photographs from our night out! I hope to do it again soon, and I have a great idea planned ;o). I can't wait!!!!
Hubs checkin' out the menu.
The "lantern" at our table ;o).
He can actually do this game! That means he is a genius, according to the game....way to boost his ego!
The decorations!
Our rings! (Yeah, I got a little camera happy while we were waiting for the food.)
When was the last time that you went on a date? What did you do? Did you talk about the kids, or is that an "off-limits" topic?
Can't wait to hear from you.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
2010 Goals
Okay, my bad. I didn't post this yesterday. We had a pretty busy day visiting with family, and I didn't get a chance to finish up this post.
It has taken me a long time to come up with a list of goals.....and this is probably not even the complete list. But, I think that it is a good start. Who ever said that you can't add to your goals as the year progresses? ;o)
Alright, well....those are my goals. What are your goals for 2010?
It has taken me a long time to come up with a list of goals.....and this is probably not even the complete list. But, I think that it is a good start. Who ever said that you can't add to your goals as the year progresses? ;o)
Relationship Goals:
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
No joke, we have never really dated. We have NEVER gotten really dressed up and gone somewhere nice, so that is what I mean by date. Guess I will have to get some nice clothes, lol. Sweats just wouldn't cut it. Haha.
Be better about communicating.
Basically try to hear "you never told me that" a little less often.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
Host more giveaways.
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
I love to read, but I don't do it every often. I have a whole shelf of books that I have yet to read....yet obviously wanted to at some point since I bought the book. Haha. Also, I really should be reading my Bible more often. It is sad that I often put sleep above reading what GOD wrote for me (well, all of us =D).
Keep my car clean.
It is so easy for me to let this go, but with two little ones and a lot less "storage" space I need to be as organized as possible.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
This will always be one of my goals. Especially as they get older this goal will become more important.
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Keep a daily food journal.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Go on at LEAST 4 dates with my husband (a date means without the kiddos....yikes! And not on a "holiday").
No joke, we have never really dated. We have NEVER gotten really dressed up and gone somewhere nice, so that is what I mean by date. Guess I will have to get some nice clothes, lol. Sweats just wouldn't cut it. Haha.
Be better about communicating.
Basically try to hear "you never told me that" a little less often.
"The Days of A SAHM" Goals:
Post at least 20 times a month.
Host more giveaways.
Personal Goals:
Read more often.
I love to read, but I don't do it every often. I have a whole shelf of books that I have yet to read....yet obviously wanted to at some point since I bought the book. Haha. Also, I really should be reading my Bible more often. It is sad that I often put sleep above reading what GOD wrote for me (well, all of us =D).
Keep my car clean.
It is so easy for me to let this go, but with two little ones and a lot less "storage" space I need to be as organized as possible.
Spend one on one time with each of my children.
This will always be one of my goals. Especially as they get older this goal will become more important.
Financial Goals:
Stick to a budget.
Don't acquire any additional debt.
Create a time line for debt reduction.
Weight Loss Goals:
Exercise at least 3 times week.
Keep a daily food journal.
Drink at least 64 oz of water a day.
Stop telling myself that I will "start tomorrow".
Keep myself accountable by posting regularly, and not justifying my actions.
Alright, well....those are my goals. What are your goals for 2010?
Monday, December 7, 2009
Daily Goal
Well, I don't get much accomplished in my day, period. In between diapers, feedings, catching up on sleep, I don't have much time to do anything....let alone keep up with the cleaning and cooking. Lol.
So, I have decided that I will have a daily goal of one room. This way each room will be cleaned up at least once a week.
Today, I have decided to work on our master bedroom. We have baskets of folded laundry all over, baby clothes, cups of water, and gifts I have yet to put away/wash.
I definitely have my work cut out for me. Another one of my goals for the day is to wrap at least a few more Christmas presents, and create a "spending' list for our next paycheck on Friday. I will be busy. Haha.
Here is a list of my goals:
Do you have daily goals? How do you keep yourself on track?
I will try and remember to update you at the end of the day, but if I don't I will write about it the next time that I post my daily goals. I can't promise you that it will be tomorrow, but I am definitely going to try ;o).
So, I have decided that I will have a daily goal of one room. This way each room will be cleaned up at least once a week.
Today, I have decided to work on our master bedroom. We have baskets of folded laundry all over, baby clothes, cups of water, and gifts I have yet to put away/wash.
I definitely have my work cut out for me. Another one of my goals for the day is to wrap at least a few more Christmas presents, and create a "spending' list for our next paycheck on Friday. I will be busy. Haha.
Here is a list of my goals:
- Clean Master Bedroom.
- Create "spending" list for next paycheck.
- Wrap Christmas presents.
Do you have daily goals? How do you keep yourself on track?
I will try and remember to update you at the end of the day, but if I don't I will write about it the next time that I post my daily goals. I can't promise you that it will be tomorrow, but I am definitely going to try ;o).
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