I've fallen off the budgeting wagon!

My poor budget has gone to the wayside these past 2 months. I've been sitting here thinking about why I did this to myself once again and I've come to the conclusion that I've deprived us for so long from doign anything that I've ended up making things worse.

For the past couple of years I've held on the reigns so tight, that we did nothing except 1 quick trip to PEI last year. I made promises and couldn't come through, so this summer we did do a few things that I had promised in the past ( the trip to Maine was the big thing). Yes I have 1 regret about getting back in to CC debt ( please feel free to kick me), but my DD is probably the happiest she's been in a few years. It wasn't about spending the money, it was having the time to spend with me and her friends and not worrying about what could happen next.

Our lives are going to change again this week, as I'll be away working, but the time that we spend at home should be better. Sundays will be our time together as a family. Time to hang out and do some little things like play cards, walk the dog and just be.

Today's plans include going to a funeral, and the never ending task called the house! the laundry pile is also calling my name. I'll also be putting away all of the outside stuff, in case Bill decides to come a calling.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hope the funeral was OK? I think it is about a balance isn't it, if we deprive ourselves then we can really become too indulgent. My post on Friday was what I found works for me. Great post, so real :)
Canadian Saver said…
The important thing is to get right back on the wagon... assess the damage, make a paydown or payoff plan, and get started.

Did you make a budget for your new paycheck? That would be a good place to start :-)

Good luck!
Anonymous said…
I agree with both Trenches and Saver. It is about balance and finding what works for YOU. Work outings with your DD into your budget!

Good luck!! :)
Jane said…
Hi Sam. I have spent the past week reading your enitre blog and I just wanted to add my 2 cents. You haved accomplished so much, and you have always been so generous with those around you - I really admire that! Don't beat yourself up. Recognize your victories large and small too!

You are starting anew with this job (congratulations!) and once you know your new pay make a new budget and build in entertainment and all the extras so you don't feel deprived. I love Gail's interactive sheet and I am always shocked on her show to see how much some folks get for entertainment but it is necessary, if we don't budget it we are going to spend it anyways. Be realistic and it will be easier on you.

One tip if you do keep up with part time work, don't include it in your budget, that way when you get extra money you can either throw it at the debt or use it for treats without hurting your budget.

Hang in there.