My Spending Choices

The process of how to spend money for each category in our budget has been a slow painful process.

First I was shocked to discover we spend well over $1000 a month on food, paper, diapers, formula, and eating out. We are a family of 7, but still! So this became my first priority to spend less. We have almost completely stopped eating out. That was a huge money saver. I started trying to keep more cooked and ready food in the frig and freezer. I really don't want to look up and discover it is 6 PM and supper is not ready. I have also changed it so that I have only $150 a week for groceries. That may seem like a lot for some. Hopefully I am on my way to spending less.

We also decided to cancel our TV and landlines. Those two changes alone have saved us roughly $100 a month. I live within view of the cell tower. My cell coverage at home could not be better. My phone also has a 911 GPS locator. So if I call 911 they can find me. I recommend the GPS locator if you give up your landline.

We also have decided to go green. Most environmentally friendly choices also save money. We have cut down the heat, changed over to CFL bulbs, put up drapes and shades, and started insulating more. Those decisions are individual, but spending a little on insulation or CFL's can really save you money long term.

We are also putting in a big garden this year. We'll see how that goes!