Monday, April 12, 2010

Numbers

I have been thinking about numbers lately. Lots of numbers. I think about the number of months until we have our credit card debit paid off. I think about how much money we should be saving for retirement. I think about how much money we will need to remodel our kitchen. These numbers can be very overwhelming. But because of our new frugal life style (A.K.A. living in poverty), I feel like we are much closer to these goals than we were a year ago.

When we first embarked on this journey to be debt free, I was very skeptical. I thought this was a phase that would pass, and we would be right back to our old spending habits. However, I think being frugal has began to permanently sink into my brain. I am constantly scouring the internet for coupons. I preach to my friends about buying used cars/used clothes/used toys. And I love trying to develop super cheap and super tasty meals.

Much to my surprise, being frugal is oddly addictive. It is like I am playing a little game with myself. I often challenge myself to go without money for a week. Sometimes two. This forces us to be creative at meal times, to use every last drop of toothpaste/hand soap/dish liquid, to find free activities for the kids, and to conserve gas by driving less/walking more. When I am successfully able to not spend money for a week or two, I feel a genuine sense of accomplishment.

This living-debt-free-adventure has definitely been an eye opener. I don't want to struggle to make ends meet for the rest of my life. So although it is a challenge, we are going to continue on this path indefinitely.

9 comments:

Jenny said...

It sounds like you guys are definitely accomplishing your goals!

As for toys and clothes. I often go to a store in Annapolis called Return to Oz and they have everything. Will dresses in Gap and polo and it is cheap!

Anonymous said...

So impressive!

Just Jiff said...

I wish I could do the same. :( I am paying off debts, but I'm not being frugal. I could pay off a lot more if I were. Rub off on me!

Kris said...

Nice... It really is easy to get into that mode. We have moments we slip up of course, but I have so much fun finding ways to save money. Its odd... but I do lol.

Clare said...

wow!! i am so happy for you! i think that it would be so hard to not spend for a week, let alone two! you are doing an awesome job;)

Jen said...

I need you to rub off on me too!! I don't feel like I am struggling, but I am definitely not SAVING. I need to save. HELP ME SAVE.

amanda said...

really proud of you friend. really proud.

Eliza said...

Sound like you are doing great! I like idea of not using $ for a week or two. Gotta love pantry raid meals!

Marni's Organized Mess said...

Wow! Good job! It sounds like you are doing great! Will went shopping the other night for us and spent $120 on over $200 of groceries. AND we hadn't shopped in two weeks. Except for milk and like one other thing.