I know very well how quickly things can change but November gave us a good reminder of just how change affects everything. My goal for November was to reduce spending basically a no spend month. Sounded like a reasonable goal with the focus on paying off all the bills by the end of year. Just three days into November and we learned that Matt would be losing his job. After looking at our situation, some prayer and as the shock wore off, we decided to first sell the van and try to arrange our lifestyle to live on what income we could be certain would be available. I am thankful that it really will not be a difficult adjustment. Things are different but not awful.
Groceries– budget amount is $650. $484 I have already been purchasing some items for Lily’s party. I also did some stocking up on drinks and other things that I wanted to have on hand. I am not sure what the month of December holds as far as groceries but I know that starting in January and lasting until Matt has steady employment is to reduce the grocery budget to $50 a week which or $200 a month for fresh veggies and bread only. I may try to do this as well in December after Lily’s party.
Auto/ Gas / Insurance. My goal is $400 a month. $385.80. Met! One of the big downsides to the new Tahoe is the gas mileage of 15 miles per gallon. We are trying to be diligent about driving it only when needed. The Equinox gets awesome gas mileage and we can drive as much as we need without a second thought. I am going to keep the goal the same with alot of monitoring at this point.
Cash Envelope system- Goal not met! This goal becomes one of the most important part of our budgeting system. It is no longer a choice but a requirement.
Goal #4- Blogging- 15 post per month. Goal Met! This is post number 15
Goal # 5- Fitness– Goal is to exercise of some type at least 10 days a month. Nope Naa
Goal #6 – Bible study- Goal- Read or Listen to the entire Bible in a year. Need to find something to get started on this.
Earnings– Cashed out Ibbota for $28 and fetch for $3, with another 7 currently in the account, I am waiting to cash out at 10 this time. Verizon for $5. Total $36 free money this month!
No Spend Days– Did not keep up with this as it just was too difficulty. I worked hard to make sure things were paid. I know we had 1 day of no spend and even that is an improvement over zero.
We had some unusual expenses during this month. We also spent a ton of money but in the end, I have been able to balance out most things. We are ending the month with a brand new Tahoe, new to us camper and a huge drive way! Most of this was covered by Matt’s inheritance so we are grateful. We also have to figure out how to cover the expense of Lily’s car.
I know of at least one more project that we want to finish which is some better organization in our closet. We also have our first camping trip planned for December. And best of all is CHRISTMAS!