CashHappy's Personal Finance Blog

I feel so blessed this week. I just found out from my tax person that we are getting a substantial amount of money back from our taxes!

This has never happened, usually we get just about enough back from the IRS to pay the State.

Anyway, I can payoff completely 2 or 3 bills, or I can completely catch up my house payment which always seems to be on the edge of almost one month behind. It would allow me to pay it ahead by one month then I could put it on Auto Payment on a bi-weekly schedule which matches my husbands payroll.

I'm leaning towards the house, I think that would really put me ahead of the game. What do you think?

Thank you for your input.

Kris

Weekdays are so much easier to stay on the straight and narrows of budgeting. I always walk away from the weekend feeling that too much cash and time has slipped away from me.

This weekend was no different, after watching money slip through my hands for grocery shopping I tend to get a little depressed.

Although we are cautious with our funds, it's just the thought of a lump sum disappearing from my cache of funds that I find upsetting.

I think I am still well on track to my goals for the month so I am using those thoughts to bolster my spirits.

Is there a particular time that you feel more down or depressed about your financial situation or goals? How do you cope?

Kris

Wow! I'm really impressed at how supportive this group is. I've started a Blog or two in the past at various sites with nary a comment from anyone.

Thank you for your suggestions and comments.

I would like to share a great website that I came across through a Yahoo Group that I joined called Pantry Challenge. The website is: www.hillbillyhousewife.com

The Hill Billy Housewife has some excellent recipes and ideas.

As for my original goal of becoming debt free I am going through each of my bills this week to see if I can cut back anywhere.

I currently run a business from my home and have been using 2 phone lines. I think I have it worked out that I can get by with just 1 phone line which will save me about $20 a month!

We also have been dilligent about turning off the computers at night and training the 3 year old not to leave a trail of lights on as she moves throughout the house....that one may take a bit of time though!

Kris

My goal is to become completely debt free in less than 10 years. This does include a home mortgage of approx. $150,000.

As a parent of 4 children ages 3,6,13,16 I also am assaulted with urgent requests for money...not all of them are valid as I'm sure you understand

Today I am thrilled because I just paid off a tiny balance that was owing on my JCPenny's credit card. Every now and then I charge a bit there just to keep it active.

By the end of April I am hoping to have one of our computers paid off in full. Several months before the no-interest special expires! It will be tight as I also have a birthday party to put on that month also.

I am open to any advice anyone has to offer. I am also searching for economical/quick/easy/family friendly meal recipes for a family of 6!

Kris