twinmama85
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Oct 22, 2011 18:36:31 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 22, 2011 18:36:31 GMT -5
Okay, I don't want to come off too much as a b*tch, but I have been on these boards for a while. Since I have been on here, I am finding more and more every month with people thinking its okay to take on new debt (like a $15,000 car loan) or using credit cards again. Then, the responders are patting backs and saying its okay and being really soft about it. I don't know about you, but I joined these threads for motivation to pay off my debts once and for all, not keep playing the same games. Why are we going against what the WIRR is supposed to stand for? I know it is personal finance and people are adults and have their own lives to make their own decisions, but when we sit there and say, "Oh honey, its okay that you put $100 shoes on your credit card because you felt you needed "retail therapy"what is the point of the whole getting out of debt boards when it seems no one is changing their habits? Thoughts and critiques would be appreciate, because maybe I am just too much into getting out of debt and others aren't as much?
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racermom
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Oct 22, 2011 18:51:49 GMT -5
Post by racermom on Oct 22, 2011 18:51:49 GMT -5
I haven't read enough posts yet to see what you are talking about - but I do agree with you. I know several people that are always complaining about all of their debt, but they'll trade in and get a new car, or when they get a windfall spend 4K on a new flatscreen and entertainment center. I've made some stupid decisions, but I don't complain to someone one day about how I can't pay my bills, and then the next day pull up in their driveway with a 30K Chrystler Town and Country (that really happened with someone I know)
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twinmama85
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Oct 22, 2011 19:30:51 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 22, 2011 19:30:51 GMT -5
racermom -- I have seen it on the threads on here and even at my job. this girl I work with is 21, she is in the middle of a divorce, has a almost 2 year old son. She is always complaining she has no money but I shit you not, the other day, she was talking about what she is going to be for Halloween! She doesn't even have a costume for her son and then she sits there and acts like a damn baby to a friend of hers telling him she wants them to goto the club and she wants to get dressed up and party because she never gets to. Unfortunately, I joined the military late in my life so I am a lower enlisted rank, she is 1 stripe ahead of me but has the maturity level of a 16 year old... Sorry about the rant lol
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busymom
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Debt
Oct 22, 2011 20:03:58 GMT -5
Post by busymom on Oct 22, 2011 20:03:58 GMT -5
Twinmama: your focus on getting out of debt is excellent! Don't let the decisions of others affect your decisions. (Yes, I just got out of credit card debt. Yes, my computer died less than a month later, & I had to get a new one. But the good news is, because I didn't have the credit card debt anymore, I now had the cash to get a new one. AND, I had a friend who has a career as a computer programmer help select the best computer for what I could afford.) You keep on doing what you're doing, & you'll get to the finish line!
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twinmama85
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Have a blessed New Year!
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Oct 22, 2011 20:13:55 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 22, 2011 20:13:55 GMT -5
Thanks busymmmy..I just find it frustrating and hypocritical when we are a thread about becoming debt free but then people find ANY excuse to charge things, open student loans, etc...Why are you even here if you aren't going to change? I guess I could always leave the threads if it bothered me that much
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Peace77
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Oct 22, 2011 21:28:31 GMT -5
Post by Peace77 on Oct 22, 2011 21:28:31 GMT -5
Twinmama,
Keep up the good work on getting out of debt.
I know one couple that tried to borrow their way out of debt. The kept living their extravagant lifestyle and borrowing from Peter to pay Paul. Eventually, they ran out of relatives and friends to borrow from. They "borrowed" where they shouldn't have and now he sitting in jail and she may join him.
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twinmama85
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Have a blessed New Year!
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Oct 22, 2011 23:58:04 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 22, 2011 23:58:04 GMT -5
Oh, I don't plan on quitting...not now, I'm too addicted ;D I've paid off almost $11k and i still have $51,000 to go...I guess I'm just ranting because I get tired of people saying, oh I had to put DD tuition on my credit card...why??why cant the daughter get a job and cash flow her own schooling? And then everyone tells them that its okay..I just don't get it?? And then if you critique someone about it or give advice that is against what they are doing, they get all offended! Argh lol
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seriousthistime
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Oct 23, 2011 10:27:39 GMT -5
Post by seriousthistime on Oct 23, 2011 10:27:39 GMT -5
twinmama, I know what you mean. Everyone has their own pathway to become debt free, and some backsliding happens. I think that when some people work really, really hard to get out of debt, the focus wears them down and they simply HAVE to buy something frivolous to treat themselves. I am not perfect and I sometimes do backslide. I don't do it on $100 shoes though. I know the story you're referring to on the DD's college expenses. (No, it's not me, but I've been there.) I think it's important to realize that some people have legitimate reasons to put debt reduction on hold or they backslide under certain circumstances. With the DD's college expenses, it could be for a couple of classes that will allow the child to finish now, instead of a year from now. (Some degree requirements are not offered every semester.) And maybe DD is already working as much as she can. Maybe someone values having a safe car that the whole family will fit in at once. Maybe they have medical expenses that they can't pay all at once. Maybe they need professional clothes that fit, in order to interview for that job that will pay more money, or to replace windows to reduce their heating costs. Or maybe they have a plan for charging things they want now and paying it off over several months, and so they accumulate more debt right after they have won their debt race. It's not a "hurray to you for taking on more debt" so much as it is a "I hear ya and I'm sure you'll pay it off ASAP." My personal issue that interferes with debt paydown is my dog. She just turned 9. She was diagnosed with Addison's Disease a few years ago; when I got her to the vet she was near death. A couple thousand dollars later she was fine, but to keep her fine I have to bring her to the vet for what I refer to as the "every-25-day really expensive injection." That is my financial Achilles heal. Many people have said to me, "Seriousthistime, what are you DOING? It's JUST a dog." But she is not "just a dog" to me. She's my pal. I've had her since she was a pup and no dog has ever loved me like this one does. I will do what I can to keep her healthy and happy. Someday it may come to a point where no matter what I do I can't keep her healthy or comfortable, and then I will have a hard decision to make. I am thinking, though, that she will be my last dog until my debt is paid off. My personal pet peeve isn't so much the ones who add more to their debt for what I consider "legitimate to them" reasons, but the ones who walk away from financial commitments simply because they want to. It's too difficult to stick with it so they file bankruptcy, or walk away from homes on short sale or allow foreclosure simply because they want to do something different. That bothers me.
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mizbear
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Oct 23, 2011 12:33:19 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 12:33:19 GMT -5
"My personal pet peeve isn't so much the ones who add more to their debt for what I consider "legitimate to them" reasons, but the ones who walk away from financial commitments simply because they want to. It's too difficult to stick with it so they file bankruptcy, or walk away from homes on short sale or allow foreclosure simply because they want to do something different. That bothers me." After filing BK when I divorced and got sick 8 years ago, I thought life had ended-again. I had always had great credit- but I had never been taught GOOD credit habits. I knew how to pay my regular bills on time- but I didn't know how bad things like CC and floating DB and DM and even DH (now ex H) could hurt me. I made up my mind after that there would be no credit cards unless I was in a situation where they were A) necessary to get a reservation fo something AND I could pay off the balance immediately (which since my debit card has a Visa symbol- I don't have to worry about) or B) I got one or 2 store cards for the stores where I do all of my clothing and household shopping- again to be paid off immediately or used only in emergency. Even though I am hoping to go back to work soon and am working on starting my own business- I still haven't felt compelled to apply for those cards... I did take some heat for replacing my truck last year. But, I transport my nieces all the time and it wasn't safe to have them riding with me in my truck. I was having to borrow a vehicle that wasn't always available. Borrowing vehicles from their parents is not an option. Yes, I have a car payment now. I also have a newer, safer vehicle that is helping me rebuild my credit, will last me a while and is not as hard on gas as my truck was (I love trucks, but went with a compact car). I make extra payments as often as is feasible. Same with my loan for my MT classes- I took some flack over that- but by doing the online school, I was able to get interest free tuition and by signing up when I did got $1000 off my tuition. I can't get that at the local community college- who doesn't like dealing with disabled or non-trad students. You usually have a pretty good idea who the irresponsible ones are, who the ones are who are just having a bad time of it and are backsliding, and who is fulfilling an actual need- whether they are getting the best deal are not is another issue- this can apply to shoes, clothes, cars, whatever. Ignore the irresponsible and be there for the rest.
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twinmama85
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Oct 23, 2011 13:09:29 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 13:09:29 GMT -5
serious -- I understand what you mean...however, if you know these things are coming up, why aren't you slowing your snowball down and saving cash?? If you know that your kid needs to have tuition paid next semester and you are paying for it, then why aren't you saving up for it? Also, as far as a car loan goes, why do people need to go out and pay $15,000 for a car that is big enough for family and not get something more in their price range? Again, my DH drives a 1997 Acura TL with 233,000 60 miles a day. Instead of getting a car loan when it kicks the bucket, we are going to put money away (right now it shows no signs of dying) to buy a new one with cash. People come up with a lot of excuses and reasons for taking on new debt or charging up cards to put kids through college. Also, as far as your dog goes, if you know you have to give her an expensive shot every 25months, aren't you saving for that since you know its an expense that happens every 25 months?
This statement:Or maybe they have a plan for charging things they want now and paying it off over several months. That is everything these boards are against because this isn't changing your behavior, that is being exactly the same as you are and you will never get out of debt. No body needs to buy a TV now with a 16 month pay off plan. That makes no sense and we end up looking like a bunch of hypocrits.
Again, the thing that gets me is people just pat them on the back and say, its okay. But it doesn't just happen once where they slip, they do it several times and still get the, oh its okay, pat on the back. Then, if someone tries to give them criticism, they get butt hurt about it and throw a tantrum. That is what these boards are for, accountability and if we can't even tell people that they are wrong, then where is the accountability?
People walking away from financial responsibility drives me nuts too! My DH has a 2 great aunts who just "left" their homes (they have mortgages on them) because they don't to deal with the mortgage or with the costs of being home owners. His grandma asked me what was gonna happen and I told her what was going to happen. That drives me crazy that they did that, its like, why not try and sell the damn thing at least?
BTW-- medical bills are a different situation, if you have to go to the ER and you end up with a $2000 bill and you don't have the cash to pay for it, that is different since of course that is an emergency.
Mizbear -- this statement is driving me nuts, not just from you, but I have heard this many many times and its a load of crap I also have a newer, safer vehicle What is wrong with an older, quality used car?? I don't understand this statement. People automatically think that cars that are made prior to 2008 are garbage death traps! I transported my PREEMIE TWINS in my 1997 Acura (and still do) and they are safe! They ride in car seats that are properly placed in the cars. If you have money to buy a newer car outright, I don't see the issue with it, but come on, sending $200 + to a bank (with interest) for 60 months is a complete waste of money because every day, every mile that you add to it drops the value of the vehicle (some cars faster than others). Don't get me wrong, I bought a 2007 Ford Edge last year (before I got into the debt repayment thing) because I thought we "needed" it because we have 2 growing boys...WHAT A HUGE MISTAKE!! If we were not in a position to pay it off in less the 2 years, I would have sold it by now, but since it will be paid off next year, I decided to keep it, however, I have learned my lesson and I WILL NOT have another car loan. When the Acura kicks the bucket, I will buy something I can afford and trade up slowly.
Sorry for the super long rant! My main thing is, we are being hypocrites and no one is changing their mind set, we are still doing the same thing as before, except maybe paying off older debts but still adding more. I know everyone can make their own choices, but it literally drives me insane seeing people say, I WANT TO BE DEBT FREE!!! Oh but I NEED this newer car...That is a contradicting statement.
Thanks for everyone's input and I hope that some of you see what I am talking about. I am very passionate about being debt free and not using debt as a "tool" for financial success. I will touch back on this in a few years when I am debt free and am putting $$$ away for a house (I'm in the military so my goal is to buy a house outright in 18years)
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mizbear
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Oct 23, 2011 13:27:45 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 13:27:45 GMT -5
The car I bought I bought off the used car lot with a new car warranty. A 2010 Yaris that the guy who bought it was well over 6 feet tall and decided it was a little too cramped for him. I got a better deal on that than I would have an older used car- that may not have been as safe and would have had to have been replaced sooner- not to mention not having as high a trade in value and the Yaris being excellent on gas.
I am refusing to have my own rant on this topic because even though I agree that some people are totally ignorant regarding their finances- I don't believe that it is appropriate for anyone to be so judgmental without having all of the facts.
We are supposed to be here to help each other. I am getting really sick of listening to a bunch of sniping when there could be constuctive critiques and discussion instead.
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twinmama85
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Oct 23, 2011 14:04:31 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 14:04:31 GMT -5
This was my rant post and that is exactly what I'm talking about. I did not call you stupid, I did not put you down. I stated my opinion and you got mad and think I am "snipping" at you. That is what I am talking about when someone gives anybody advice or criticism, people can't handle it. I even said I did something stupid by buying a 2007 Edge that I cannot afford.
Mizbear do you follow a particular debt pay off plan or is it your own? (I am just curious to see what people are doing)
I am following Dave Ramsey's plan. I've always had his similar idea when it comes to money, however, I listened to my husband too many times and shared his decision that got us into $63,633 in debt (about 75% is student loan).
Here is my reason for why I don't understand people buying cars they can't afford.... there is this kid in my shop who can't get a car loan because his credit history sucks (he was/is immature with his finances) because he was late too many times on his credit card. He wants to buy a car for $9,000 but only has $2000 in the bank. He has to get a co-signer in order to get a loan. I asked him how long he's been without a car, he said about 3years. I asked him what is the difference if he waited another 2-3 months to save money to buy a car because he doesn't really have any bills anyway. He did not have a response to this.
Another thing, if he took that $9000 as a 1 time investment for 40 years at a rate of 12% interest earned (this is the avg interest the stock market has earned since its conception) he would have over $1 million dollars to his name.
That math is the biggest reason why I don't agree with car loans. You could be putting that money away a month to buy a car outright that you can afford instead of giving the bank extra $$ in interest.
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mizbear
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Oct 23, 2011 14:59:49 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 14:59:49 GMT -5
Stand in my shoes for a minute-
You have not asked what the situation was. You have not asked if I could afford it. I can not pay for a car in cash. If I walk into a car dealer and pay for a car in cash, I lose everything. I can not have more than X amount in cash assets- why? Because I am legally disabled. Did I want to have a car payment? No, not particularly. Did I feel a responsibility to have something safe to drive? Yes. Did I get the best deal out of everything I looked at? Yes. Could I have put money down and leased to get a lower payment- not at the time when I purchased this vehicle.
I tried to keep working and pay off all of my bills when I got sick. Make deals with the creditors, etc. Found out that CCCS is a joke. I had a problem with a medication, which didn't help any, then I eventually collapsed and had another nervous breakdown. I got put out of work. I tried 2 different job services and finally ended up filing bankruptcy. Lost a money pit house (that I probably shouldn't have bought- but the hubby wanted a house and he couldn't get one without my signature), my truck, and my excellent credit. Of course it wasn't so excellent by then. My next vehicle was inherited from grandfather- his truck. I haven't used credit cards since. My money is tight. But- I am rebuilding my credit, I am poised to pay everything off early. I will be able to go back to work because I have done what I needed to for me. Maybe not the way I wanted to or the way some people liked- but it's getting better. I can't depend on anyone but me and the girls on this board. My refusal to go back into debt for everyday purchases irks my friends. It irks my own mother. But I don't have credit cards. It hurts when people make assumptions. I agree the interest on car loans sucks- that's why I pay extra on mine. Mine will get paid off early that way. I have no penalties for early payoff and all extra goes automatically towards principal without writing an extra check. ;D But not everyone is the same.
About debt payoff plans- my payoff plan is this-
1. Pay off last 0% layaway (bedroom suit) by Christmas- I owe 2 more $50 payments and $40 delivery charge. This is the last layaway until I have a big enough place to get my recliner. I have bought all of my furniture over 2 1/2 years on layaway like this. 2. In January, the extra $50 from the layaway gets added to the car payment amount. I want to get rid of the car payment first because it has interest. The car payment is $269.86- I pay $300. Just by doing that, I get 1 extra payment in a year. But, I managed to make an additional extra last year while the electric bill while really low in the spring. 3. The school loan. It's $55/month. $2500 tuition.Just made my 10th payment. But that one is interest free.
No other debts.
Like I said, I can see your frustration, but you also need to look at each individual person's situation. I wish someone could see mine. There is a difference between ignoring critique and criticism and getting tired of getting lumped in with everyone else without people knowing or listening to the whole situation.
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twinmama85
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Have a blessed New Year!
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Oct 23, 2011 15:12:14 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 15:12:14 GMT -5
mizbear -- if you can make more money without disability, why not take that chance (i dont mean just jump into something and lose disability all together too soon) but doesnt it drive you nuts that the govt has control over your financial destiny. That said, I understand if you absolutely cannot do anything at all because of the disability, but ive seen the fire in your threads. Ive seen your posts before on the savings thread, you have a level head.
Lets step back for a second, you said you cant have a certain amount of money cuz you will lose disability....with that said you cant save too much to buy a car outright. how much is your car loan for?
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bring in the new year
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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Oct 23, 2011 15:13:48 GMT -5
Post by bring in the new year on Oct 23, 2011 15:13:48 GMT -5
twinmama,
Caveat 1 - the only debt I have is the mortgage. I drive a 10 year old car.
But I will say depending on the deal and what the rates look like I may take the loan for the next new car. And it will be new or almost new, not used.
Why? Even though I hate debt, I know a few other things too. The only things I know about a car is how to fill it up, how to check the oil and how to fill the wiper fluid. The salesman/woman could tell me anything about a used car and I'd either be reliant on them or running it over to my mechanic for a two hour check up. I don't know enough about a used car to know if it's a good deal or a lemon. And I can't afford to take every car I test drive to my mechanic.
I'm on the road some days 22 miles each way, mainly highway. And I'm single. So while you have DH who can come pick you up if something happens, I don't. I buy new and I take it to my mechanic on a regular basis. If that costs more, so be it.
It's still cheaper to me than sitting by the side of a highway waiting for AAA. And that's the good scenario.
I'm not criticizing your choice. I'm not even disagreeing with your rant. I'm trying to point out that every one's situation is different and sometimes what you see as not being serious about debt is what I see as paying money now to save money later.
But let's say everyone did as you're suggesting. What happens? People are already driven away from this board by a mild introduction to reality. If we all became purists, we lose those people and the people they might bring with them. How does that help them?
I think right now it's a good mix between those who try to be gentle and nudge and those who say, cut the crap. And once you get people on board, even in little ways, it makes easier for them to see that they are talking crap and do need to get more serious about cutting debt.
You're angry (I think) because other people are not as dedicated as you are. But really, would you have posted more than once if all people did was ream you out for having debt? If people hadn't said to you Good job at starting or trying, would you really have come back here for more inspiration?
Call out people you don't feel are being serious, that is one of the functions of this board. But remember that everyone is not in your place just yet and it should be a goal to get them there.
Congrats btw on knocking down your debt.
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twinmama85
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Have a blessed New Year!
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Oct 23, 2011 15:14:18 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 15:14:18 GMT -5
ARGH...completely off topic but i am absolutely ashamed of my grocery budget now!! i am on a we're debt free thread on baby center and this woman with a family of 5 has a budget of $260 a month!! my budget is $500 and i struggle!! good lord i need a grocery overhaul!!
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twinmama85
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Have a blessed New Year!
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Oct 23, 2011 15:23:42 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 15:23:42 GMT -5
You're angry (I think) because other people are not as dedicated as you are. But really, would you have posted more than once if all people did was ream you out for having debt? If people hadn't said to you Good job at starting or trying, would you really have come back here for more inspiration? Call out people you don't feel are being serious, that is one of the functions of this board. But remember that everyone is not in your place just yet and it should be a goal to get them there. that is what this post originally meant for...im not saying 1 time oh i fell off the wagon then i ream them a new one. i mean people who continually do it. its always something... like this, someone keeps having excuses why they have to pull out their card. they say their reason and everyone always says, oh its ok, you'll pay it off, keep working! but they keep doing it. that is what is driving the most insane...the car loans and such, well, that is just a personal rant that kinda got off topic. and when someone or myself calls them out, we get accused of flaming because they cant handle the fact they know they made a mistake. and this is just some car advice for you to think about...my DH is not the car person, I am...that said, no i cannot rebuild an engine or anything, however, if my old ass car starts to do something weird, i google it. i google everything, (just like my son who will be having kidney surgery next month, i knew nothing about kidneys til he was diagnosed, now i know enough to know whats going on). so lets say my engine starts to knock, im gonna google it. there is so much information its just a click away. so instead of buying BRAND NEW, buy something a little older (maybe 2-3 years) all you need to do when looking at used cars is look at the mileage, what it was used for, is there any major mechanical problems with it. if you test drive it and it starts to knock, obviously you wouldnt want to buy it. anything you are not sure about, research it, i mean anything. not only will you engage your brain, but you will save yourself money and time ;D
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bring in the new year
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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Oct 23, 2011 15:43:58 GMT -5
Post by bring in the new year on Oct 23, 2011 15:43:58 GMT -5
ARGH...completely off topic but i am absolutely ashamed of my grocery budget now!! i am on a we're debt free thread on baby center and this woman with a family of 5 has a budget of $260 a month!! my budget is $500 and i struggle!! good lord i need a grocery overhaul!! Ask her what she counts in the grocery budget and if she has a separate budget for household goods. If it includes everything,get her to come here and post for God's sake. ;D
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mizbear
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Stand back. I have a budget, and I know how to use it.
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Oct 23, 2011 15:45:26 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 15:45:26 GMT -5
twinmama- That's exactly why I am taking my MT courses and trying to start my own business- I HATE being on disablility. If I thought the doctor would let me do it- I would go back to working the drive through just to get the cash for right now. That's why I want to get this stuff done (also why people often see me ranting about my nutty family) As far as your grocery budget- like I said, you can make that your personal challenge. You may find you can lower it through coupons and some savvy brand changes, bulk shopping, etc. Or you may find that it stays right around the same. I feed myself for about $40/month. But- I don't eat out, I rarely eat meat, my meals are repetitive. Not everyone can do that. Your passion for reducing your debt, for your family, etc serves you very well.
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bring in the new year
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 15:48:20 GMT -5
Post by bring in the new year on Oct 23, 2011 15:48:20 GMT -5
Excellent advice about google. And no. There are things I'll can do and things I can't. Plumbing yes. Computer repair yes. Some basic electrical maybe. Anything I'm driving at 60+ - I touch nothing. I'm a coward. Hell, the last time I tried to check tire pressure (which I used to be able to do btw) I seemed to have lowered the pressure rather than filling the tire. But it's a good advice for those of us who aren't completely fat thumbs about engines.
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twinmama85
Well-Known Member
Have a blessed New Year!
Joined: Dec 28, 2010 9:48:38 GMT -5
Posts: 1,627
Today's Mood: Blessed
Location: Home
Favorite Drink: Wine
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 16:00:38 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 16:00:38 GMT -5
bride-- lol..people are still in a very old school state of mind that you NEED to have someone else do things for you..now im not saying get a schematic and overhaul your transmission but just inform yourself so you can make better choices.
once upon a time i went to a place called Just Brakes in Arizona to get brake pads replaced...this guy was trying to tell me that i needed my master cylinder replaced!! he said he was leaking and he cant fix the brakes and not replace that! the brake job woulda been like $2500 instead of the $99 they advertised. He was clearly trying to take advantage of me bcuz 1, im a woman, 2, i was pregnant so he thought he could feed off of that!! i called my dad and asked him his opinion, he said dont do it. and guess what, the master cylinder still works!! so now, i google EVERYTHING. if i cant fix it myself (like my DH thinks his PS3 is going hay-wire) but i google (plus im a computer tech) and i told him, no, you dont need to go out an buy a new one, just pop the case and blow out the dust because it is clogged.
PLEASE INFORM YOURSELF!! ahhh
mizbear-- i could eat like you, i eat to survive, not for pleasure...DH on the other hand...not so much. he wont eat dinner without meat, he gets bored with left overs after about a day so yeah, no $40 budgets here lol
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mizbear
Senior Member
Stand back. I have a budget, and I know how to use it.
Joined: Jan 2, 2011 13:12:46 GMT -5
Posts: 3,958
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 16:26:51 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 16:26:51 GMT -5
My meals drive me nuts once in a while. I walk into DGMs and DM says- we're having steak tonight would you like to stay for dinner and I start chasing my tail and rolling around the kitchen floor like I haven't had my meds in a month.
Yeah- what is it with some of these places thinking women know nothing?
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twinmama85
Well-Known Member
Have a blessed New Year!
Joined: Dec 28, 2010 9:48:38 GMT -5
Posts: 1,627
Today's Mood: Blessed
Location: Home
Favorite Drink: Wine
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 16:30:35 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 16:30:35 GMT -5
yep! i always make sure im informed before i do anything because people will try to take advantage of people (not always and not always trying to be skeesers) but you have to protect yourself.
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bring in the new year
Well-Known Member
Happy Thanksgiving!
Joined: May 3, 2011 17:28:52 GMT -5
Posts: 1,966
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 16:49:29 GMT -5
Post by bring in the new year on Oct 23, 2011 16:49:29 GMT -5
This is why I have one mechanic.
Who just happened to go to HS with BIL. He's been my mechanic for about 20 years now. He knows I'm cheap, I know he's trustworthy, and we get along great.
But you're right about knowing basic stuff. And I do know some things and I'm not a pleasant person to sell a car to.
HTG, salesman once tried to tell a friend of mine that she wasn't interested in knowing how to change her oil, she should be interested in the cupholders.
Cupholders and the color of the car.
Luckily, she brought me along and I played royal witch to the hilt. I pulled her out of there.
Because of course to change the oil on this model, you had to lift the engine. Think about how much that'll add to your oil changes.
So, you're right about knowing your stuff.
Any update on how the other woman is doing the groceries?
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twinmama85
Well-Known Member
Have a blessed New Year!
Joined: Dec 28, 2010 9:48:38 GMT -5
Posts: 1,627
Today's Mood: Blessed
Location: Home
Favorite Drink: Wine
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 16:57:53 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 16:57:53 GMT -5
Because of course to change the oil on this model, you had to lift the engine. Think about how much that'll add to your oil changes.
you have to lift the engine?!?! WTF!!!! that is the most assinine thing ive ever heard!
This is her post: This week's shopping list for my family of five, who are big eaters:
2 cans Delmonte peaches
5 boxes of 3 pack popcorn
3 bags Fritos
1 box Kleenex tissues
5 cans tuna
4 cans cream of chicken
4 cans cream of celery
Tortilla chips
2.82 lbs chicken breast
6 lbs ground chuck
Egg roll wrappers
1 lb strawberries
Head of cabbage
Big bunch of fresh spinach
2 lbs sweet potatoes
2 lbs carrots
2 packs Sargento sliced cheese (7.5 oz packs)
2 blocks of 1lb cheese
2 bags frozen broccoli
1 bag frozen corn
1 bag frozen peas
2 gallons milk
2 boxes of store brand juice (like the Dole juice blends)
8 lbs oranges
8 lbs apples
total: 73.61 (My monthly budget is at $260, so I went just a bit over for a weekly budget, but I won't spend much at all next week.
I stockpile, but I am not a hoarder. I have a little chest freezer and it's full of meats, frozen veggies, frozen fruits, and frozen cheese. My fridge freezer is also full of the same. My cupboards are full and my pantry is full. We have plenty of canned fruits and veggies, pastas, rices, cereals, oatmeal, grits, tea, coffee, sugar, flour, creamer, chocolate chips, soups, craisins, raisins, about 5 jars of PB, 4 jars jelly, 4 jars peanuts, tomato sauces, pizza sauces, chips, canned salmon, tuna, etc. Meal planning has lots of possibilities here, and they're not all based on my weekly shopping list. I tend to stock up at sales, like BOGOF, I freeze veggies and fruits that I get for ridiculous sale prices in the summer, I buy reduced priced and sale meats. I never buy meats at regular price, like last month, I hit the store on the "right day" and got 15 lbs of ground chuck for .62 lb.
Here are some things in my freezer. I don't keep an inventory, but I know generally what I have because I rotate it every week, by putting the latest frozen items on the bottom, which moves the oldest things to the top for us to eat more immediately. These are some things we have right now in the freezers: 5 lbs blueberries, 1 lb frozen peaches, 5 bags broccoli, 5 lbs peas, 1 bag carrots, 3 bags corn, 12 bags shredded cheeses, 5 blocks of cheese, 4 packs smoothie mixes, a giant bag of frozen bananas (I add to smoothie mixes to make them go farther), 4 lbs sirloin steak, 3 lbs T-bone steaks, endless bags of boneless chicken breasts and chicken thighs, two whole chickens, 2 lbs Pollock, 2 boxes fish filets (gortons), 1 bag fish sticks, 3 bags of tater tots, ham slices, box of pepperoni, just under 5lbs of slivered almonds, nearly 20 lbs of ground beef/chuck, one turkey tenderloin, one pork tenderloin, a pack of pork chops, 2 packs of biscuits, 1 pack of Rhodes rolls, 1 bag of jumbo shrimp, 2 rolls of Jimmy Dean sausage, 2 packs of sausage links, 2 packs of Kielbasa, and a pack of Hebrew Ntl Hotdogs.
In my fridge (besides what I bought this week), I have 2.5 gals milk, 3.5 boxes of juice, onions, garlic, ricotta cheese, block of cheese, about 5 containers of Smart Balance spread , 1 Best life spread, and 2 Land O Lakes spread, 2 dozen and 3 eggs, tortillas, pickles, mayo, salad dressing, jelly, creamer, a few lbs of potatoes (white and red), & soy sauce.
My grocery budget includes paper products and toiletries. We are stocked on paper towels I generally just use cloths, but I do have enough PT for a good 6 mos. or more. I have about 3-4 supply of toilet paper, and endless amounts of toothpastes, soaps, toilet paper, etc. I also have 5 bottles of laundry detergent and 6 bottles of dish liquid.
I cook from scratch totally, and overall, I enjoy it! My crock pot is often my lifesaver. Seriously. We don't starve at all.
This week's meal plan includes:
Dinner:
Sun night: chicken and veggie (cabbage, carrots, and onions) stir fry, egg rolls
Mon. night: parmesan crusted chicken, salad, and dinner bread
Tues. night: Lo Mein w/veggies and egg rolls
Wed. night: tuna casserole and broccoli
Thurs. night: cheeseburger casserole, salad, and mashed potatoes
Fri. night: homemade calzones or pizzas
Sat. night: bean burrito casserole in crock pot
Breakfasts: eggs, toast, and fruit, PB and banana smoothies, oatmeal and fruit, cereal, pan cakes and fruit, maybe muffins
Lunches: sandwiches: ham, PB & J, and grilled cheese; soup -- all with sliced carrots or fruit and chips, and crackers and cheese with the soup ; and leftovers from dinner
*I use coupons, but only on good stuff that we're going to eat or use. I don't use them on just "stuff." I am NOT one of those who can get $100 worth of stuff for $10. I save about $5-$20 a week on coupons (depends on several factors, like sales, if they're tripling coupons, etc.) I buy a lot of store brand items, but mostly, I just stock up at really good sales.
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mizbear
Senior Member
Stand back. I have a budget, and I know how to use it.
Joined: Jan 2, 2011 13:12:46 GMT -5
Posts: 3,958
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 17:15:28 GMT -5
Post by mizbear on Oct 23, 2011 17:15:28 GMT -5
I still say that with her pantry and freezer we are not getting a real picture of her grocery budget.
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phil5185
Junior Associate
Joined: Dec 26, 2010 15:45:49 GMT -5
Posts: 6,409
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 17:31:28 GMT -5
Post by phil5185 on Oct 23, 2011 17:31:28 GMT -5
Another thing, if he took that $9000 as a 1 time investment for 40 years at a rate of 12% interest earned (this is the avg interest the stock market has earned since its conception) he would have over $1 million dollars to his name.
That math is the biggest reason why I don't agree with car loans. You could be putting that money away a month to buy a car outright that you can afford instead of giving the bank extra $$ in interest. tmama - I don't think that you are interpreting your math correctly. I always 100% finance our cars. Say that we plan to buy a $25k car - I could sell $28k from our stock fund, pay $3k in capital gains tax, and use the $25k to pay cash for a car. Or, I can 100% finance the car (and pay about $28,000 over a 60 month period) and sell the old car privately for about $4000. That means that my $28,000 stays in the stock fund, plus the $4000 from the old car. Ie, $32k in stocks. Using your 12%/yr return, that $32,000 grows to $64,000 in 6 yrs (the Rule or 72). So, if can make $32,000 with that money, why wouldn't I be happy to pay the bank $3000 in interest for the use of it? (I've done this several times over the past 40 yrs - so far, so good. )
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twinmama85
Well-Known Member
Have a blessed New Year!
Joined: Dec 28, 2010 9:48:38 GMT -5
Posts: 1,627
Today's Mood: Blessed
Location: Home
Favorite Drink: Wine
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 17:38:05 GMT -5
Post by twinmama85 on Oct 23, 2011 17:38:05 GMT -5
phil -- you dont take account any risk at all, like if you lost your job or get severely injured and cant pay the loan.
not only that, if bought a $10,000 car with cash, not financed, you would be able to invest more money into the market because you wouldnt have a car loan for 60 months,
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DVM gone riding
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Joined: Dec 20, 2010 23:04:13 GMT -5
Posts: 3,383
Favorite Drink: Coffee!!
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 17:38:09 GMT -5
Post by DVM gone riding on Oct 23, 2011 17:38:09 GMT -5
Just a pet peeve---You won't make money back on windows!!! Ask Phil or any other of these finance guys it just isn't going to happen--My Dad is a general contractor and preaches to everyone that you will never make the money back on replacing windows-You also won't make the money back on solar panels unless your solar panels have been heavily subsidized by tax payers--ok end rant.
I hear what you are saying twinmamma--esp on the car which i am totally guilty of, though that was before I joined WIRR and was a big motivator in my joining, its hard for me because I am not drowning in my debt yet I know buying the car was a financially irresponsible decision so I have decided to sell it if I can get what I want out of it, if not I will continue to responsible pay down my debt
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DVM gone riding
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 20, 2010 23:04:13 GMT -5
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Favorite Drink: Coffee!!
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Debt
Oct 23, 2011 17:56:50 GMT -5
Post by DVM gone riding on Oct 23, 2011 17:56:50 GMT -5
I just want to add--Misbear you are an inspiration--everytime someone gets on here and says they can't possible make it work and they HAVE to use the CC to pay for everyday purchases I like to point them twds your threads, because you make an 800-900/mos budget WORK and you have a car loan that you are paying EXTRA on, (though I do think you are nuts for taking so much care of your nieces but I understand why you do it) continue to stand up to your mom and everyone else and your life is going to continue to get better.
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