Living on a Budget Doesn't Have to Mean Losing Out

In this day, as the economy continues to move up and down and it is more important than ever for families to stick to a budget. Nobody's job is ever completely "safe,' and the hours at work are never guaranteed. We must all learn to live within our own means.

Thankfully (and knock on wood),my husband and I still have our jobs. We appreciate each day that we can provide food for our family and a roof over our head. We don't ever take anything for granted and also live each day at a time. While we pay our rent, utilities, groceries and things that our daughter needs, there is looming debt that we do try to make payments on... Although there is debt-we do stick to a budget too. .. So how do we do it?

Groceries: Shop Sales/Shop Cheap

While there is a local grocery store in our small town, we do shop out of town at least twice a month. We try not to drive out of town more than two times in a month. If we have to go out of town, or we are with other family members, we try to make purchases as we can while we are there. This is an ideal way to save on fuel as well. 

Our groceries are purchased at discount grocery stores such as Aldi. While the bulk of our food is purchased at Aldi, we do buy our hygiene needs at Wal-Mart. The maximum that we usually spend on a grocery trip to Aldi is never more than $100. When my husband and I shop at Wal-Mart, we split up certain items, so that neither one of us is carrying the load of the over-all price. If we really need a certain item (such as milk, bread, eggs, etc), we buy it on sale at our local grocery store. We hardly ever pay full price for an item at a local grocery store.

Entertainment


Click here to continue reading about how my family and I stick to a budget...

Shout-Out to Blue Sky Scrubs: Need Scrubs?

If you are just starting out a new job as an RN or working in a nursing home, or anywhere else that you need a pair of scrubs, you should check out Blue Sky Scrubs at: http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/categories/Scrubs/Scrubs-for-Men/

Many of the jobs that are still in need are RN's. If you have had training and attended school for the position, then you may be in luck. With an economy that has been shaky, and the U.S. feeling the recession, jobs have been lacking-but one job that always seems to be in need is an RN.

As you begin your new RN position and you need nurse uniforms and supplies, then you can take your shopping list to Blue Sky Scrubs. 

Spending the Holidays with Family

 Traveling Down Memory Lane                       

Since about 2 years ago when grandma Cherry passed away, I think about her a lot during the holidays. I was looking at some of the old photos that were posted with her online obituary and I came across one when she was younger. In a way-it reminded me of myself. I never realized it before, but if you look close, I kind of looked like her... With this new realization, it makes me feel just a little bit closer to her again ... 

With an economy already unstable, not only does that make the holidays rough, but sometimes it's still hard not having those that you loved with you during a time that is described as happiness and cheer. 

The holidays is definitely a time for family. And even if there are those in your family who are without jobs this season, or are having trouble struggling financially-you can at least be thankful that you have each other. Spend the holidays with your family and hold them close. A hug is always worth more than a wrapped up gift... 

The Importance of Your Credit Score

In today's economy, it is more important than ever to carry a good credit score. Without a good credit score, your potential to be approved for a loan is next to nothing. If you carry poor credit, and you need a loan, you may have to have someone co-sign the loan or have a second person listed on your application-and that second person must carry good credit. 


Every year, you have the chance to check your credit report. Legally, everyone is allowed to check their credit report once per year. It is free to check your credit report each year-but only one time. If you would like to, you can also check your free credit score while you check your credit report too. This will help you understand where your credit stands should you need to apply for a loan, credit card or perhaps buy a new car. 


So as the new year begins, always make sure you file to check our credit report. Checking your credit report can also help you guarantee that nobody else has stolen your identity, and that there are no errors on your personal information as well. Be sure to check it with the 3 credit bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. 

Thanksgiving is Coming Soon!

Wow, it seems like we were all still in the midst of summer, and now Thanksgiving is just only a couple weeks away and we are into the fall season!

Many of us may be wondering how we are going to afford a dinner this year, or figure out how we can cut corners on the dinner and still make it feel and taste like home. With many of those out of work, or not working many hours, it can be hard to come up with the money to celebrate the traditional Thanksgiving feast.

There are ways to save money and also still celebrate the holiday without being too down in the dumps about the economy. Many of us can still be thankful that we are alive, have good health, a roof over our heads, and have friends and family who love us. While employment and money may lay heavy on many minds, we still have the gift of life to be thankful for. ...

--As they say..."This too, shall pass.."

If you are looking for ways to save money on Thanksgiving, I do have a great article you can read for some ideas to inspire you... Feel free to check it out:

How to Save Money at Your Family Thanksgiving Dinner Celebration