I'm starting this as a challenge to myself to keep our family stocked in what we want, be able to donate to others who need, and not overspend in the meantime.
I have a budget and i follow it. My goal is to spend no more than $3,000 a year. We do have some doubles (and super doubles), but all in all, it's from matching the sales with the coupons. 3,000 was going to be a problem last year when I started it because I kept buying things that we were never going to use. Also, I know that really, at this point in the process, there isn't a lot that we really need. We're fortunate to be stocked in diapers and wipes for our 6 month old (Sammy) (at least for a while), we have a full pantry of food and decide stockpile of all HBA for the most part. However, as there are things that we do need each week and like to keep stock of so that when we need it, we don't have to run out, we'll keep track. Also, this will help show us how much we spend on eating out. Thankfully, it's a lot less than it has been before.
What Is included in my budget.
1. all food
2. all HBA (health and beauty items)
3. all eating out
4. all cleaning supplies
5. all extra newspapers for extra coupons
What is NOT included in my budget
1. Clothing
2. Gifts
3. Car
4. House
5. Bills
6. Coupons I obtain by using ECB or RR or gift cards, since it costs me nothing.
7. Gas
8. Coupons other people send me (friends and family)
I have to admit, I took this idea from another blog that I read. Qpon $saving Mommas has inspired me to take on the challenge. It's just the three of us (Mike-31, Diana-28, and Sammy 6 months).
So, here's to the journey of the year. Hopefully I'll update this weekly with the new receipts and totals.
