I haven’t blogged about budgeting in quite a while. Today I will be sharing some new and old changes in my budget.
I’m excited to focus on my finances for the last quarter of 2024, including setting a budget that aligns with my priorities and avoids over spending on gifts.
I’m proud to have started my 401(k) and Roth plans, and I’m committed to contributing 10% and 5% respectively. Well, it may require some adjustments. I’m confident that I can manage my disposable income and maintain a tight budget to achieve my financial goals.
Have started back using my cash envelope system. Which helps me stay on track with my expenses. I am prioritizing my emergency fund, Car, maintenance and medical expenses. I have not been current with saving my cash, Today is the day to get it started.
We are trying to cook more homemade meals. That’s a struggle for us in several ways. Mr.C. Isn’t in great health and standing for a period of time really hurts him. He has been using our air fryer more and more. I also have been trying to find crockpot meals to throw in before work.
Our monthly grocery and household budget is $400.00. If we run out of dairy, produce and fruits I pick up when I get paid. So add another $100.00 to that figure. This total doesn’t include our fast food budget. Honestly I am not sure how much goes to eating out. Especially with the price of food rising everyday. Can you believe 18 eggs are now $5.57. Yikes!
I’ve had to take a step back from shopping online. I found myself spending money on items that I really didn't need. This money would be better used going to my emergency fund. Am working on putting back money for 3 months of bills. My goal is to have 6 months of bill money put back for life’s emergencies. I have a binder with clear envelopes in it. I have an envelope for each household bill with the projected amount I need for my goal.
I also pack my work lunch everyday. Normally take leftovers or something easy such as sandwiches or homemade adult snack packs. I like Turkey pepperoni, cheese cubes, crackers and grapes. I also like pinwheels. My lunch is only 30 minutes long, so I prefer quick lunches.
This is just a few ways I am trying to figure out my budget and not overspend. What ways do you save money for your budget?
Morning mindset
I start my mornings with a prayer of gratitude and protection every morning before my feet hit the floor. I I believe this sets the tone for the day. Incorporating in your morning routine when the house is quiet and cold, put on your cozy socks, grab a throw and go to your comfy spot. I’ll bring my Bible and bible journaling book. This way I can reflect and study the Bible before the hectic day. Trying not to be on social media during this time. I feel like phones kill the morning routines for me. I get caught up reading all the post on Facebook and do not get to my Bible journaling. True story.
Remember your home is your sanctuary this fall! Do little things in the morning to make it inviting, cozy, and comforting all day. Make your bed every morning. Then pick up the dirty clothes and wipe up sinks and counters in the bathroom and kitchen. When you return home after work, it’s clean and sparkling for your nighttime routine.
Make your home, your Haven. Perhaps get a simple morning routine for your fall home like setting a tassel throw blanket over the edge of your sofa before you head to work that way in the evening you can get comfy after being in the cool evening air. Sometimes the little touches in your house makes all the difference.
Fall Skin Care
It’s important that we nourish our body, mind and soul. Preparing for the fall does include the correct skin care. During the cold temperatures, my skin gets very dry. I had to remind myself to drink plenty of water and eat hydrating fruits and vegetables to keep with the spirit of the season fall scented facemask. It might take a few tries to get the right moisturizer for your face. Do not forget using the correct sunscreen as well. I tend to always go with a lot foundation for fall.
Positive affirmations
Fall is a time for rest and transitions, why not practice affirmations that aligns with the season for example you can recite like the leaves I release what no longer serves me.
Save your affirmations as screensavers, Or write them on sticky notes and place where you can see them.
Gratitude journal
Seasonal changes can greatly affect our mental health. Riding down what you’re grateful for can help lift your spirits and center your focus on the good things in your life. I tried to write three things that I’m grateful for every day in my planner. Just looking for the small blessings and makes the difference with my mindset.
A few tips for a morning routine
Make a healthy warm warm breakfast. Warm food is easier to digest.
Fall scented candle, and journal your thoughts
Make a list of what you’re grateful for
Meditate or breathe deeply
Read an inspirational book
Do not forget self-care
Whatever you choose to do make sure that it makes you happy and you’re enjoying what you’re doing. Fall season is a great time to start new routines and new thoughts.
As fall officially begins, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the season. I can’t wait to embrace the cozy season with open arms! I’m proud of myself for prior terrorizing, self-care, and setting aside time for reading and relaxation. My personalized book list features a mix of romance and mystery and fantasy novels that I can’t wait to dive into, all while, sipping hot tea and snuggled up in my favorite throat. Here’s to embrace the cozy charm of fall and making lasting memories.
* A cup of Autumn ( Silver Falls) by Melissa Mcclone
* Autumn Nights by Debbie Macomber
* Autumn Skies & Pumpkin Pies ( The Coleman Series) by Katie Winters
* The Pumpkin Spice Cafe
* Cinnamon roll secrets by Kathleen Suzette
* Candy coated murder by Kathleen Suzette
* Autumn Alibi by Jennifer David Hesse
* Harvest and Hunt (An Autumn Cozy Paranormal) by Eva Belle
* Death by Pumpkin Spice by Alex Erickson
I can’t believe they’re only three months left in 2024. It has been a busy year, as I’ve challenged myself to be more active. Going into fall, I will be ready to unwind and enjoy some books. During this season, I tend to read physical books instead of e-books. My carefully selected book list reflects my preferences.
Do you have a favorite book you like to read in fall? If so please let me know. What is your favorite genre to read? Would love to hear from you!
Oreo Mud Pie
Ingredients:
1 box of chocolate pudding mix
2 cups of whole milk
2 containers of Cool whip
And crushed Oreo’s
Directions:
Mix the chocolate pudding mix as it says on box. Mix in both containers of cool whip, add one sleeve of crushed Oreos. Mix together. Add another sleeve of crushed Oreos on top. Place in fridge to chill for 2 hours and it’s done.
I really enjoyed myself. Am looking at a good church to attend, it’s been many years since I attended Eastside Baptist Church. The vibe the ladies was giving off was much better than what I remembered. I am going to plan to attend next weekend.
