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
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Post by mizbear on Apr 1, 2012 13:00:47 GMT -5
The Controlled/No Spend thread is undergoing an overhaul as we get back to the fundamentals of the thread while still maintaining the camaraderie that keeps us coming back and makes us successful- even if not initially.
Not sure if weekly captains will happen but we will try.
Here is this month's Controlled/No Spend Thread as promised. Please post your goals for the month if you would like me to include them in the bi-Monthly update. For the new people there are no real set rules here, you set your own. The basic goal most if not all of us have are to keep track of the days we don't spend and hopefully by that work on saving money. Some are looking to put it into savings others to pay down debt. For some they only count the day as a no spend day if they spend nothing at all. Others will count it if they keep their total under $5. Some count all spending others only count a certain part of their budget. For example I personally take $400 out of the the bank in cash for everything that is not related to vehicle expenses (like gas, oil changes, insurance etc) or the house (mortgage, utilities, HOA) If I spend out of the $400 I count it as a spend day (although if it is less then $5 I usually count it as a no spend day.) You set your own rules. Any questions feel free to ask. You can post your no spend days daily or whenever you want, just put it in bold at the top with the first number being the number you want me to record. If you are doing daily then: Today (or yesterday) $0 Spend day More then one day at a time: 4/31 days $0 Spend Which translates into 4 out of 31 days in December have been no spend so far. Some use the bigger number as their goal number so do 4/15 No spend Days which means they have a goal of 15 no spend days this month.
CSD: Controlled Spend Day BFF: Best Friend Forever DH/DS/DD/DSS: Dear Husband, Dear Son Dear Daughter, fiance, boy friend, Dear Step-Son DIL, MIL, BIL, SIL: Daughter in law, Mother In Law, Brother in Law, Sister In Law NKCW: No Killing Co-Worker Day (could also be no kill DH NKDH etc) MOAN: Moving our a$$ Now aka exercising NS or NSD: No Spend or No Spend Day NEO: No eating out HTH: Hope This Helps KWIM: Know What I mean FWIW: For What It's Worth IMHO or IMO: In my Humble Opinion or In My Opinion Getting Nitzed is a now slightly outdated term referring to when you have a long post and MSN cuts you off so its in two posts instead one. Having a Startsmart Day is referring to when you have 20+ things on your must get done in a day and you accomplish them. Sharing the Simple Lifestyle aka Toasty; Single Mom-KY aka Smokey; MittenKitten aka MK; Pt_In_NY aka Pointy; Red2Black aka R2B2. The Boy is Sheila in Cali's son. the boy or Mowgli is Nsinglet's son Blue is Red_Wagon's DH TBear is MizBear's older niece. ZBear is MizBear's younger niece.
Every week we try to have a question of the week (QOTW) and challenge of the week (COTW) related to the question.
Honeylioness had a wonderful answer I think really defines WHAT we are about:
"I will admit that during my first two months of lurking, I wondered just how in the WORLD someone could not spend any money at ALL for 25 days? Did they just pay all their bills one day a month, and that same day do the food shopping for the month? Like many new to the concept I saw it as horribly, and restrictively, black or white – an opinion first based merely on the name of the thread.
But once I came to understand that it was not so totalitarian and was more about finding a way that worked for you to track your spending and any “leaks” in the wallet, it has felt more like a tool and less like a punishment. I wish I could say that I have paid off five extra years from the mortgage, or now have an EF of six months take home – but alas that would not be true.
What I do have however is a better awareness of where my “leaks” are, what are my hot buttons that make me want to spend on things I really don’t need or really cannot afford right now. And an awareness of the fact when I AM spending money. I think that awareness is key to learning a new behavior or paradigm. Just like lumberlady(a member that hasn't been a regular lately but is still a much loved part of our community), some of us have had to look hard in the mirror and acknowledge that we had a problem. Until people can do that, be it an addiction to alcohol or drugs or credit cards ….. they will never really GET it."
Thanks Honeylioness!
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Honeylioness
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 20, 2010 14:09:59 GMT -5
Posts: 244
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Post by Honeylioness on Apr 1, 2012 14:18:33 GMT -5
mizbear - Thanks for the April Thread. I was going to do it when I got back from the store - but you beat me to it!! 3cats - SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. This one is making me cry Final Numbers - Unless someone else has claimed the task I can post the final numbers as I am pretty good with charts.
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startsmart
Senior Member
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Post by startsmart on Apr 1, 2012 14:26:28 GMT -5
It's going to be AHHHHH April for me Tomorrow I launch my first group program and I'm working with Blue today to finalize everything. Plus the conference. And travel. And travel again. I'll update on my March #s and April goals when I'm settled again
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3catslady
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Post by 3catslady on Apr 1, 2012 17:14:56 GMT -5
goals for April: 30/30 NSD, 30/30 NEO, $150 in savings this month. update: 29/30 NSD, 30/30 NEO, $100 in savings. I have 3 weeks that I don't have any bills to pay but I still need tires for my car. That is all that I can think of right now. I spent $3.05 today for the in-law's Easter party so that is my 1 spend day and it is only the first of the month. I don't want to spend any more this month than what I need to spend.
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ses
Familiar Member
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Post by ses on Apr 1, 2012 18:20:44 GMT -5
26/30 NSD
This past week has been unbelievable. March and I am ready to turn on the AC, but tomorrow will be 30 degrees cooler and a gradually 10 degrees rise through the week. I hope to get the yard spring cleanup done this week. I am always surprised how much there is to do, and what a difference it makes when it is done.
This past month I have been doing a lot of "pantry shopping" and I think I will continue. Things are getting a lot more organized and the savings are growing nicely. This week I am going to make some slow cooker Greek yogurt. I like the idea of saving 66%. Has anyone here tried this? It looks so simple.
I need to get up and do something constructive. Watching Onyx enjoying a sunny spot with her glossy black fur gleaming and her tail and toes tucked neatly under, her eyes little slits and wearing a self-satisfied smile while Calleigh sprawls on the deck chair on her back with her tail and back paws gradually sliding off the cushion while she snores away make me reluctant to become any more active than I am right now.
I hope everyone has a good week ahead. (copy from March)
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startsmart
Senior Member
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Post by startsmart on Apr 2, 2012 8:28:10 GMT -5
Just a bit of awesome news to share before I head out to my errands and conference today.
Awhile back I was researching groups and came across the Brazen Careerist. Now they have a loony who is the "voice" but she always referenced her biz partner who seemed legit. Well because I'm in this members only group I got connected to him and we had a video chat last week. He's as awesome as I thought he would be and sent me an email on Friday that only said "startsmart, I freaking love you!" which made me laugh.
It's so weird to think how just 2 years ago I didn't know Blue Eyes, I didn't have this business and I didn't know what I should be doing. The road certainly hasn't been smooth but I'm very grateful for the WIR and this group for helping me through it.
Also - if anyone was interested in the articles I mentioned in March the US News series has started and the Forbes Women should be publishing this week so send me a message thru proboards and I'll send you the link if you're interested.
Now gotta go write a confirmation email because my new course launches today! woot woot!
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Rocky Mtn Saver
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Post by Rocky Mtn Saver on Apr 2, 2012 8:41:37 GMT -5
Well, I think I'm going to track No Spend Days and Controlled Spend Days this month. I'm going to call a Controlled Spend Day (actually more of a Low Spend Day) $5 or less. My goal is going to be 10 NSD and 10 CSD(<$5). Yesterday was neither. But today should be! ;D
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MittenKitten
Well-Known Member
Home of the Circus
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Post by MittenKitten on Apr 2, 2012 11:27:17 GMT -5
Hello ladies! April is also Autism Awareness month. Was going to respond to many but the kids have been unusually needy! Happy Birthday Honey!
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redwagon
Senior Member
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Post by redwagon on Apr 2, 2012 11:38:47 GMT -5
Happy Birthday Honey!!
My goal for April is to make it out in one piece. This weekend is Easter and BIL's birthday, next weekend is BFF's bachelorette party (which thankfully won't be too pricey), and the three weekends after that are weddings. And in the midst of all that an ultrasound and my two-month appointment, as well as my mom and aunt visiting for a day and a half and doing NYC stuff with them. I had a bachelorette party in Boston this weekend that was also blessedly cheap (not being able to drink is a huge money saver!) and tons of fun. We told that group of friends when we met up with the bachelor party and it was just great being surrounded by so much love and joy. They were so genuinely happy for us, it was just what we needed. Also told my parents and my mom spazzed out in a great way, as expected. Going to be such an exciting year ahead!
So other than all that, I hope to meal plan and grocery shop smartly. This week I think we're using mostly stuff we already have, although I do need to pick up some ham steaks and some fresh veggies for Wednesday's dinner. And some bread for lunches.
Good luck everyone!
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financialpeace
Familiar Member
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Post by financialpeace on Apr 2, 2012 11:52:29 GMT -5
March Final Update: 17/15 NSDs ;D
April Goal: 20 NSDs
Startsmart- I would love the link to your articles. I am very interested in reading them.
Happy April everyone. I'm turning 25 at the end of the month and dreading it. I'm not where I wanted to be at this point. But I'm in the best shape of everyone in my family, so I'm trying to focus on that and be positive.
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redwagon
Senior Member
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Post by redwagon on Apr 2, 2012 11:59:37 GMT -5
FP - happy birthday month!!!
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pointy
Junior Member
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Post by pointy on Apr 2, 2012 15:12:12 GMT -5
goals for April: 22 NS and 28 No QVC
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moneysquirrel
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Post by moneysquirrel on Apr 2, 2012 20:18:52 GMT -5
The boards ate my post! I'm in again. With all the activities this month I will aim for 15 NSD/CSDs. Update: 2 NSDsHoney -- Happy Birthday SES -- My AC have been kicking on and off for several weeks now. With temperatures in the 80s I am grateful for the new windows I put in several years ago. The AC has not been running as much as in the past. Ceiling fans help also. Only 2 more days of school this week
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Apr 2, 2012 20:51:40 GMT -5
{Angel Climbs back up on the wagon a little dusty and bruised from March}
I am going to go for as many NSD and CSDs as I can. March was a rough month, I feel like I not only fell off the wagon, but got run over by it several times. April should be better. The only big thing going on for us this month is my Pookie's 12 birthday (shhhh...don't tell me he is too old to be my pookie...and don't tell him I called him that on here!). We don't usually spend a lot on Easter, usually just get the kids a chocolate rabbit and a small gift card. So...I am hopeful that this will be a good NS-CS month.
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3catslady
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Post by 3catslady on Apr 2, 2012 20:55:15 GMT -5
update; 1/30 NSD, 2/30 NEO, $100 in savings. In fact, I picked 3 pennies up off the floor at work so I am 3 cents richer. ;D I haven't counted my pick-up jar yet to see how much I have picked up off the floor at work, outside the window at McD and BK and just walking along the street or road. I have some writing to do so I will see you all later.
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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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Post by mizbear on Apr 2, 2012 21:29:07 GMT -5
Can someone suggest some kind of motivational reading that is not Christian based and is not going to make me feel an inch tall before I figure out what I need to do or stop doing? Everything that has been suggested to me mostly either has a Christian base- and honestly for the past 20+ years I have felt as welcome in church as - well take your pick of analogies or beat you down like a sadistic D.I. before they start to even look at the possible problem. If I want a sadistic beat down I can A) go to church or B) call my brother.
Need a pick me up. Talking to my therapist doesn't always help because I need the intellectual alone time.
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Rocky Mtn Saver
Junior Associate
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Post by Rocky Mtn Saver on Apr 3, 2012 8:23:39 GMT -5
Update: 1/30 NSD, 0/30 CSD. Sadly, today won't be a NSD or CSD, as I've already ordered a replacement laptop cord from Amazon this morning. I hope it works, because if it doesn't solve the power issues, I'll have to get some professional help with the computer. Hey, if I'm already having a Spend Day at 7 a.m., does this mean I can spend whatever I want today?
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Apr 3, 2012 19:43:58 GMT -5
1 NSD
I am so mad at my husband right now. While I was gone to Michigan on Spring Break he cleaned out my van. In the back of the van was my tupperwear bowls. He GAVE THEM TO GOODWILL!! He said he thought I didn't need them since they were in the van! I had used them to take stuff to the lab and just hadn't taken them out. He does this crap all the time. He will clean the basement or something and if he thinks I don't use something, without asking me, he will just throw it away or give it away! I think he also told my cousin I have a sewing machine that "I don't use" because she texted me this morning about buying it from me. He did that before with my kids' guitars! I would NEVER throw out his stuff or give it away without asking him first.
So I am going to go drink a beer and ignore him for the rest of the night. I am too mad to talk to him.
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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
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Post by mizbear on Apr 3, 2012 20:36:48 GMT -5
Angel- HUGS. I can definitely feel ya on this one and I don't feel that the new tupperwear is as good as the old stuff.
start- I too would like to read your articles and will send you a msg.
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financialpeace
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Post by financialpeace on Apr 3, 2012 21:27:30 GMT -5
Angel- I know exactly what you are talking about. My husband does the same thing, and it makes me so mad. Just the other day he cleaned the bathroom and threw away my sugar scrub because "it looked bad". I know sugar scrub isn't that expensive, but it's the principal of the thing. I hadn't had it very long, and it looked the same as it did the day I opened it. I get pretty worked up about it because I see it as a lack of respect. I would never throw his stuff away without his permission... I'm all worked up now thinking about this subject. It's a good thing DH is at work or he would be getting an earful.
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startsmart
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Post by startsmart on Apr 4, 2012 2:28:56 GMT -5
Wow, I didn't even mean to but managed a no spend day on vacation! The completely adorable mr blue bought dinner tonight (pizza that was sooo good) and I didn't buy anything else! We are having such an amazing time, I did not log on yesterday because we shut down the dance floor after 11 last night and have otherwise been working hard on my business.
I'm picking up coffee in the morning so I'm sure the rest of the trip will be CSD as planned, lots to implement in my biz and I need to get up at 6 to workout and write articles so night y'all.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Apr 4, 2012 6:19:54 GMT -5
FinancialPeace-I see it the same way, a lack of respect. I seriously did not talk to him the rest of the night. I know some will think I overreacted, that is fine. Of course he hasn't even apologized for giving away my stuff. So now that I am less angry, I will have to give him an earful that doesn't contain as many cusswords as last night's earful.
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dakota4600
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Post by dakota4600 on Apr 4, 2012 8:53:22 GMT -5
IMA/FP- I know where you are coming from. DH recently gave away a bag of Mini-D's clothes that might have still fit him. I had asked him to donate the bags of my old clothes one day and he grabbed all the bags. And they were LABELED, so he couldn't claim he didn't know. Of course then this gets us into the cycle of me complaining that he isn't helping and him "reminding" me that I yell at him when he does. We had the discussion again last night, so he has agreed to do all the cooking, dusting, vacuuming, bathroom & kitchen cleaning for the next week while I tackle the piles that mysteriously appear everywhere. The only reason he agreed to this is because mini-D's b-day party is next Sunday and we are both swamped at work and he knows if he doesn't help that I will not be pleasant to live with.
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moneysquirrel
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Post by moneysquirrel on Apr 4, 2012 20:38:04 GMT -5
Update: 3 NSDs
I now have a few days off and I think a few of them will definitely be spend days. Today sure was. I needed almost all of the items that I got so I am not all upset with my items.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Apr 5, 2012 6:43:11 GMT -5
2 NSD
I am so glad today is my last day of work for the week. 35 more days of work for this job. I did get my final evaluation yesterday and it was really good. My boss offered to write me a letter of recommendation, so that is good.
I am just checked out mentally I think. I need to get out of Kansas.
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3catslady
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Post by 3catslady on Apr 5, 2012 7:18:11 GMT -5
update; 3/30 NSD, 4/30 NEO, $250 in savings. I am stripping my checking accounts to the bare minimum. I have a total of $200 in them for gas and groceries and other incidentals like hair cut and meds.This absolute no spend is really hard when you are used to spending at least $5 on yourself when you want.
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redruby
Established Member
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Post by redruby on Apr 5, 2012 7:58:44 GMT -5
I know it has been awhile but I am back. I need to stop leaving this board because I fall off the wagon. It helps so much. Problem is DH is usually the one to make me fall off. Ok so there is 25 days left this moth so I am going to shoot for 15NSD. I know that is low, but I want it to be realistic. We have prom and a 70th bday party to go to. I really need to do this. I have paid off so much but know I could do more if I stop spending,
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Rocky Mtn Saver
Junior Associate
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Post by Rocky Mtn Saver on Apr 5, 2012 8:12:05 GMT -5
Welcome back, Redruby!
LOL, I worked hard to keep under my $5 CSD limit yesterday. I even bummed 12c from my friend so I officially stayed under the total! ;D
Rocky Mtn Saver: 1/30 NSD, 1/30 CSD (<$5)
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startsmart
Senior Member
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Post by startsmart on Apr 5, 2012 9:54:32 GMT -5
Definitely going to be a spend day because I need coffee! Yesterday I booked my New York trip and the flight times are going to be rough! But I can get hem in time to teach my class and be somewhat settled in and not chaotic.
Today I have two client calls, two potential client in person meetings, need to hustle to get my class filled and have some fun with blue eyes on our last full day in Arizona.
Happy no spending y'all
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redwagon
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Post by redwagon on Apr 5, 2012 14:06:13 GMT -5
Angel - that would tick me off too. I think blue knows better than to throw anything away without my approval. I hope...
I'm tired and ready to go home. I have very little planned for tonight and I'm pretty stoked about that. I've been so tired and going to bed early and totally loving that. I missed sleeping a lot. Sleep is wonderful. (what first trimester fatigue?). I'm kind of glad I don't have freelance projects right now because I'd be too tired to stay up late working on them. I do need to put in more time getting work from the clients I supposedly have. I'm on many people's lists but work is few and far between. so many people competing for the same projects. Ah well. Can't say I care too much right now. No energy to.
And I'm off tomorrow for my ultrasound and just a day off. Need to clean the house and finally put away laundry...
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