I had high hopes for October that things would be less stressful and less expensive. However that did not happen. What did happen is that I have been trying to remember how far we have come as well as these two very powerful truths. 1. You can’t have a testimony without a test. Otherwise it is just you moaning (very wise Christian lady said this often) 2. Satan would not care what we were doing or try to interfere if it did not have enteral value. Finally I have been assured and have visible proof that God is and will provide over and above anything I could imagine. I would love to have a No Spend November but this is not a realistic goal for our family at this time. What I am planning is to keep spending at a minimum for the remainder of the year and to watch as God multiples and supplies our every need.
Groceries- Goal $800 per month. We spent $1114.93 This did include not one but two trips to Costco this month. I am starting and planning for a 4-6 month pantry challenge in November. I am only going to buy what we are out of as well as try and use up as much as possible that is already on hand. I am allowing a couple of exceptions including our trip to Disney in December, Christmas and the Super Bowl party. My goal for now until March or April is $200 a month but if that does not happen God will provide.
Gas- Goal is $400. Total spent was$420.30 for gas this month. This amount does not include the two tanks of gas we spent going to and from the beach. The reason is I included those in our trip breakdown. This is not a category I have much control over instead this is really a place holder and way for me to stay realistic when making the budget. We also had to have an oil change in the Tahoe this month which is the first one that we actually paid for. November will be pricey as well due to registration and insurance both being due.
Blogging-The goal will be 15 posts per month. This is post 5 for October. I am guessing that is one of the lowest months ever. I can plan and hope but God is in control.
Debit- The goal for 2026 will be to pay off the Home Depot Credit card without interest. We failed at this. New expenses continue to come up. I am frustrated and hope to be able to had a new realistic budget in place by January 1 2027. Otherwise I am just allowing God to control my fears and money.
No Spend Days- Goal for 10 no spend days a month. As I mentioned above I would love to make 15 or more no spend days for the money but only time will tell.
Health/Exercise-I am a stress eater. Life is stressful. Enough said
Foster Care- Disappointed as our court date was continued due to Mom’s being appointed a new attorney. Our next court date is November 17th. I am planning a whole blog post about Foster care and how the system is working right now.