June Spending

Once again I spent more than my budget. The primary culprit was the pet category and groceries. I spent less on allowance but the slack was tekn up in other areas of my budget.

Annual performance reviews

It is that time again at work and for the past several years I have dreaded it. Maye because I know I am not working up to my potential. Due to the downturn in the economy among other things, I am not expecting to receive a bonus this year. Last year I got a $7,000 bonus but I have prepared myself to not get one this year, although I could use it.

I have also been giving more thought to changing jobs. The idea really scares me but maybe it is time to move on. Anyway, it is just a thought.

A day of no spending

I am happy to report that yesterday and the day before I did not spend one dime.  I need more no spend days.  Today I did go to the pet store and get food, cat litter, and a new bed for one of my cats so I spent about $42.  

One Year Blog Anniversary

Last Sunday, June 29th was the one year anniversary of my blog. In the past year I have learned much about my financial habits. I mostly realized that I have a harder time NOT spending money than I thought I did. As you can see above, I have only managed to add a measly $907 to my emergency cash funds in 12 months. That is a real eye opener.

My net worth did increase more than $21,000 but that was mainly due to the paydown of debt. My assets increased but the increase was tempered by the downturn in the stock market.

This is just another reminder that I need to buckle down and SAVE!!!

I have enjoyed blogging this past year. My original goal was to blog while I was paying down debt and now that I have done that I have paid my credit debt down I plan to keep blogging at least until I get $10,000 in my emergency fund. I project that it will be in the first half of next year before that happens though. Even then I will probably keep blogging along to hold myself accountable for my financial actions.

To those of you who may enjoy reading about my good decisions and bad decisions, please feel free to comment whenever you like.