A Change Begins

Two days ago I sat down with a very awesome mom that helped me with my finances. I didn't realize how much money I was throwing away every month on things we don't need. Now I know why we are always broke! I wrote down several ideas to save money as we were talking:

1. Make more homemade things: This includes things such as cleaning supplies, spaghetti sauce, candles and whatever else I can find and try! I think making more things at home will save us loads of money. Plus it will be more healthy. I know what I am putting into my products!!
2. Shop around for car insurance: I just assumed I had the lowest rate possible since we have a bundled package. We have been with the same insurance company for years. It's time to shop around and see if I can save a few hundred dollars a year!
3. Get rid of couch payment: Yes, we are one of those people who rent to own. It's awful. Don't ever do it! You may think you can swing a low weekly payment, but over time you are paying double for the  item you are buying. It's better to save for what you need and pay for it with cash!
4. Get rid of maghound: Maghound is a magazine service that lumps your magazine subscriptions into one monthly payment. Seems like a good idea at first until you realize you are paying way more then if you just pay for the subscription up front.
5. Start shopping on Amazon.com for supplies: I had NO idea the money I could save on Amazon! With Amazon mom you get free 2 day shipping and a nice discount on household items. It's cheaper to buy in bulk!
6. Divide larger bills into 4 payments: Then budget a set amount each week and pay that each month so you have a buffer of credit. For instance my set amount each week is $365. This amount comes out each week no if's and's or but's!!! Here is a breakdown of my $365:  $120 rent, $90 utilities, $100 food, $30 gas, $30 insurance, $25 couch (stupid couch!). If there is overage then set that money aside and DON'T touch it!
7. Open ING Savings account and put ALL overtime into it: My husband works a lot of overtime. When I figured up our finances, we can live comfortably on his income alone. All extra money needs to go into an interest accruing savings account.

This was my start. I suggest getting a notebook and recording all money saving ideas as they come to you! Now get started!!!