I did this post on my other blog prior to our Total Money Makeover Commitment:

Well, I'll just be honest, this is probably NOT the Post for me, as I'll admit, my husband and I have been terrible at our finances. I read all of the other really awesome blogs with ideas and advice...and I thought Wow! That's awesome! Part of our problem has been irresponsible or poor decision making and part of it has just been "life". I won't get into it, but we are trying to get our heads above water now, after 9 years of marriage. Thankfully, God has provided for our needs and kept our marriage together and happy despite our fiscal responsibility.

So, here are a few tidbits (b/c that's all I have) of advice:

1. It doesn't take a lot to make your house feel like a home when you are first married, and you can't expect to have the things that you think you need right away. It takes many years for people "set up their homes". It doesn't have to happen over night.

2. DON'T USE CREDIT CARDS. If you don't have it, don't spend it.

3. Save, Save, Save....I think this is #2 on the list...the worst feeling is having something come up, like a big car expense and you have to choose whether or not to pay rent or pay for the car, so you can get to work to pay the rent...not good--believe me I've been there.

4. Okay, so how much do we save. I say, and what we are working on is enough to cover expenses in case my husband looses his job...some experts say 3 months others more. Out 1st goal is 1 month...one day at time.

5. Some would disagree with me, but once we have enough in savings to satisfy, our next goal would be retirement and/or long term emergency.

6. The kids college would be after that. Thankfully we have a little outside help on this issue, and one of my Hip Kiddos started some modeling, so our goal is to put a good chunk away for college for her and hopefully the other Hip Kids will get some work too...and maybe this will be a good contributor. The other chunk, we want to use for special activities/lessons that we wouldn't otherwise be able to do, but the kids want to do.

So, that's what I think....of course use a budget...I'm not so great at that. I'm trying but it's really hard for me. Just being Real, remember? I'm praying for God's strength and help in this! It's a constant battle, so if you think of me...shoot up a little prayer for Hip Mama & Fam!