Getting Started

Category: Real Frugal

OK, it's still March so I did mean it when I said "starting March 2010".  I've been organizing all of my thoughts about how I'm going to do this blog in my head and realized that I just need to get started, just do it.  (thanks Nike). 

US

We're a family of 5, living in Ottawa, ON. Our kids are 3, 5 and 7.  We like outdoorsy activities, (camping, hiking, swimming) as well as time spent reading, creating art, and eating good food.

We've been changing our ways over the past couple of years, morhping into a lifestyle that requires little money, outputs small amounts of garbage while at the same time, rewarding us with healthy choices and happy hearts. How are we doing this?  This is what this blog is all about.  We're a real family, making these real choices, transforming our lives...right before your eyes and I'm going to share all of this with you!

How we got started:

This tip started the ball rolling. This tool opened our eyes and brought us back to reality.  If you don't have one of these, it's hard to make solid, realistic decisions.  It's a protractor, I don't know how you can live without one.  No....I'm joking, ha ha...It's a budget.  It's important and it works, we're living proof.  Sit down and start making a budget.  Check out this website to learn how.You really need to find out where your money is going before you can feel comfortable spending it.  I was one of those 'non believers' but after 2 years of using our budget spreadsheet and being honest with all details of our finances....I'm a true believer and am dedicated to our budget. I'm so happy we took this first step.  Once you have a budget, you can start setting goals and realize how realistic it is to reach those goals. Knowledge is power, take charge!!

If you already have a budget set up, this is a good time to revisit it.  Does it work?  Have both parties in your relationship contributed and tweaked it as necessary?  Are both of you aware of the details?  These are important questions to ask and necessary to get answered, for your own benefit.

 It's similar to counting calories while following a specific meal plan.  That hand-full of raisins does count and so does a magazine you bought while waiting for the bus.  Start tracking....more on how we started tracking coming soon.  Just do it.

Next post: Wednesday April 7 2010