Back in the budget saddle again

We are back on track!  After

6 months of complacency and not following Dave's steps, we found ourselves in a state we didn't like and stressed us out.  Do not hear me saying that we are hard-pressed.  We have great jobs and are extremely blessed with resources.  Acting like we are suffering for cash is a complete slap in the face to 2/3 of the world living in crushing poverty on 1 dollar a day.  We want to be good stewards and honor the Lord!  So, the envelopes have started back.  Only this time, I copied my youngest sis's idea of cutting off the outside of those cheapy plastic photo albums.  They are hardier than envelopes and cuter too.  So, this week, the grocery envelope is empty, that means we eat up what we currently have in the fridge and pantry--no more shopping!!

We also are making Carter watch the Dave Ramsey for teens dvd set before we will open him a checking account.  He loved his trip to South Africa so much that he talks about going next spring break all the time.  So, we showed him that 2500 by next March is saving 250.00 a month--the boy needs a job!

It is a great teaching tool for teens about money management.  We were watching the one about paying cash and how it has a hurt factor when you spend vs swiping and how you spend more because swiping has no hurt factor.  Then Dave taught on envelopes.  Carter asked "didn't ya'll do that one time?"  Ugh, yes dear, we weren't very steadfast with sticking to the cash rule.  I hope he grows up living out the principles and does a much better job than us.  My favorite line in the dvds is this "I don't want to be normal...normal is BROKE"
Speaking of broke, my minivan had an engine trouble light on this weekend.  We took it in yesterday  and I prayed my heart out--Please God, don't let this be a big and major repair.  I plan on driving that sweet sucker til this time next year(10yr old with 197,000) miles on it!  Thank you Jesus, it was a gas cap and cost us 25.00 :))