Very concerned about MONEY?

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-31-2003
Very concerned about MONEY?
3
Mon, 04-26-2004 - 8:14am
I just recently returned home with my 16 month old. Now that I have all this time on my hands, I have noticed all the things around the house that have been neglected for so long. So many things need fixed, cleaned and bought. There is so much around here that we NEED and HAVE to buy. But we just took a serious pay cut and can barely afford the grocery bill. I quit a very stressful job just to come home and stress about finances. I have no idea what to do? Please- any advice would be great. Thanks- Denise

PS- #2 EDD 11/04!!!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-11-2004
Mon, 04-26-2004 - 8:49am
I understand, but try not to think about it so much. When I get like that I just remind myself of what we do have. I think about what is really important, and soon realize that what we really need, we do have, and the things that I thought we needed and dont have we really dont need afteall. Not always do I convince myself of that, But I try. Just try not to stress on it too much, and think about all the wonderful things about being home. God will take care of you. Not to say you can be silly about how you spend, but he will provide for your every need. There have been times when our bills out did our income by far, not to mention the extras you need, and somehow we always made it. We didnt stress about it, knew God would be there, and he always has. unexpected odd jobs would pop up, unexpected money, just trust in him and you will be alright. Im sure he is so proud of your decision to stay home with your children, he will bless you for it, and make this possible. Hang in there, we all have went through this transitional phase. We're here for you.

Violet

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-09-2003
Tue, 05-04-2004 - 1:01pm
I will be perfectly honest with you. I have stayed home for a year and a half now. A seventeen month old and a 8 week old. yes, very busy.


When money is very tight, your marriage gets stressed. Money is a huge issue in marriage. I hate not having money. Never mind not just having money - but stressing out if we can afford groceries, mortgage...etc... Forget it! So, fortunatly my husband works in the Emergency Room only 3 days per week. I am going to get a part time job. For money first of all and sanity!! I need to get out for me.


Best of luck

C

Avatar for hbramblett1
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-31-2003
Tue, 05-04-2004 - 5:27pm
Take it one step at a time. I felt overwhelmed also, and when we decided to sell our home, and I started doing things to make my house "more sellable" I found that things really aren't that expensive.

Small touches can really make a huge difference. A bit of paint, (walmart and K-mart sell gallons of paint for under $15. Watch for clearance, and sales. You might be surprised.

If you do one thing for less than $20 a paycheck, you will slowly but surely get there. I also found that I could recover 6 chairs and paint and varnish my table and chairs in my dining room for $25. I would love a new set, but with a little elbow grease, and some paint, I have a very charming little table and chairs, that will suit us fine for now.

Good luck, hang in there, I know that taking a paycut like that hurts, it took me over a year to feel comfy with the budget.