July 13, 2010

• My Sunday Hobby

  Lighthouse Church is currently in a message series titled, "Life's a Roller Coaster!"  This Sunday's topic is "Finances".  In anticipation of our topic, I wanted to repost one of the very first posts I wrote for my blog.  This was originially posted April 6, 2008.  Lots of details have changed in my life since then but I'm still clipping those coupons! 

  Did you know that the Sunday paper comes with money inserted!  Yes, money.  Okay, coupons aka "money"! I love clipping those coupons and looking at the weekly ads!  Seriously, it is my Sunday hobby. 

  Before you think I'm out of my mind let me explain.  Brian and I are committed to debt-free living.  We are working very hard to be completely debt free!  Most people know that Brian works in Insurance and Investments.  He has taken college classes and has all these certifications and licenses.  Because I stay home with the kiddos and homeschool, they probably don't know that my degree is in Business Admin. with minors in Accounting and Economics.  We have taught classes and seminars on money management.  We will be teaching a class this fall to homeschooled teens.  We are really excited! 

  We want people to know how much freedom comes from being debt free and storing up for the future!  We also want Christians to know what an impact we can have for Christ when we are debt free.  Our debts consume our ability to give and steal our ability to serve (because of lack of time from working extra jobs or overtime - not to say that either of those are bad.  They're not.  Especially if they help you get out of debt.)  The number one reason for divorce is money problems.  I hate divorce!  I am about to cry just thinking about people divorcing over money problems.  Let me get back to the coupons so I don't cry.  

  I am at home with four dear children who need to be educated.  Since we have chosen to home educate them, I am unable to bring home the bacon.  All of my work is done for free (even at the gymnastics, it is a work of the heart).  So, my job is to find ways to save money.  I cut coupons, shop sales . . . 

  At first I wasn't sure it was something I liked.  It was necessary to achieve our debt free goals.  Brian and I made a budget for groceries, clothes and such.  The only way I could stay in the budget was to find ways to get items cheaper.  I think I started liking it when I was able to purchase my oldest daughter two new winter coats and one cute new pair of shoes for $11.22! Now, it is so exciting that I can't wait to brag to Brian how much money we saved.  Sometimes it is hard to throw the receipt away because I'm so proud of my savings.  Just last week, I spent $18.32 at Krogers and saved $36.87!  Sometimes I just happen across the deals.  I have a list of items my family needs and I patiently wait (like with the coats for Katie).  Most of my savings, though comes from clipping coupons and shopping weekly ads.  I always check out the sale items and buy the ones that I have coupons for.  If it is on sale and I have a coupon, I get an awesome deal. 

  Think this might be a hobby for you?  Pray.  Not kidding.  Remember the "ask and it shall be given unto you"?  Ask God to lead you to the best buys, to stretch your dollars and provide for your family's needs.  Stock your pantry really well with the basics and then start clipping and shopping those ads. 

  To get you started, check out www.moneysavingmom.com.  She's awesome!  Don't get discouraged if you don't get it all right away.  It takes about three months of practice to get good at it.  It is so much fun.  If you need help or have questions, I'll be glad to help you.  People don't mind talking about their hobbies.  I don't think I can ever go back to paying full price for anything.  If you know this hobby is not for you, can I have your coupons?  Seriously. 

  • 9:25 am
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