I'm baaaack!

Wow! It's been FOREVER since I posted. Well, brief update: I got married, moved to Northern VA, got a job working on "the Hill," learned how to navigate the public transportation system, bought a dog, and am in the process of buying a brand spanking new townhouse (ground breaking is next week or so).

I decided to get back to blogging because I've committed myself to a "no-shopping" binge until we move. Ironic that my last post before my unintended hiatus was about laying off the shopping. Guess old habits die hard?

I am proud to say that the reason I'm laying off shopping this time is space related and plain old self-discipline! (okay, and a little bit of items that need to be paid). The hubby and I have been doing AWESOME with our finances. When we first got married, we committed to saving his paycheck and living off mine (and saving as much as we can from mine). It was amazing how quickly our money started adding up. When we get ready to move, we should have a nice nest egg saved up (not counting the cash needed for closing costs and the down payment). I'm so proud of me and my honey!

Speaking of my honey, can you believe we are approaching our first year anniversary! My, my, my, time flies. Well, now that I'm not so "independent," I may just have to change the name of my blog... Hmm... I'll ponder on that some.

Smooches!

True Confessions

Guys, I've fallen off the bandwagon. I can't even remember what I bought, but I definitely have bought something!!! BUT, I haven't bought anything for the last two weeks. And I'm staying out of the mall!!! NO GOING THERE! It's trouble.

I moved home last Saturday. My lease was up and it just made more sense to move home and save money than to try and lease an apartment for five months without a roommate (my roommate wanted to move home, too). I'm going to save at least $500/month on rent alone!

But, back to the no shopping strike. I'm back on it and more committed. I'll keep you posted!

Shopaholics Anonymous

Okay.... so, my finances are on track and I'm still socking away money to expand my emergency fund (my goal is to increase it by $1500 before I get married in August). But, I can't seem to stay out of the mall and off the internet! So, as of today, February 7, 2009, I am declaring a shopping ban (retailers, I'm sorry) for three months until May 7, 2009, with one exception: A pair of reasonably priced black pumps.

Why the exception? I NEED a new pair. And by need, it's not just a strong urge or desire, but a necessity. My pair is so worn out, the sole is completely worn at the tip (I mean, white material is showing!), and I've replaced the taps on the heel at least 3 times. It's time to give it up! I have my eye on a pair that are around $35.00 and I'm hoping to find a coupon to get an addition % off.

Other than a pair of new black pumps, I can't buy any other clothing item or accessories for myself (I won't be able to buy a brown bag until May). My purchases are limited to toiletries (nothing extraordinary), food, and items for my wedding.

:::: Sigh ::::

This is going to be tough, but I'm going to do it! Every time I resist the urge to buy something, I'm going to put the money into a new savings account just to see how much I would've spent on shopping! LOL!

Wish me the best!

Frugal Tips

It's been forever since I posted, and I apologize. Life has been busy. But, I wanted to share a few frugal tips that I use.

1. Shop on Ebay - Ebay is an excellent resource where you can find small, inexpensive items like electronics accessories. Why pay $10.00 at Target for iPod earphones when you can buy them on Ebay for half the price (including shipping)? Or why spend $20.00 at Sprint to buy a case for your Blackberry when you can buy one on Ebay for $4.95 (shipping included)?

2. Before you buy anything online at a store (i.e. Gap, Banana Republic, JCPenney), run a search in your favorite search engine (google, yahoo, etc.) for coupons. You will usually be able to find coupon codes that can save you the cost of shipping or more.

That's all for now. I'll update you on wedding details and financial fitness goals later!