Income:
DF: $3309.25
Me: $2282.00
Total: $5591.25

Expenses:
Mortgage: $2489.23
Groceries: $705.87
Petrol: $284.56
Internet: $77.80
Mobile: $49.45
House Ins: $69.39
Life Ins: $53.67
Personal Loan: $185.00
Pet Supplies: $63.55
House Supplies: $292.00
Work Expenses: $41.65
Clothes: $54.56
Dining Out: $128.10
Entertainment: $122.50
One Off Purchases: $720.00
Gifts: $24.00
Health/Grooming: $29.45
DF Fun: $289.13
Me Fun: $154.85

Total Spent: $5834.76

Deficit: $243.51-



Well! Basically the deficit is due to the fact we bought a lawn mower and a ladder, and some other household gadgets. We would have waited to buy these, but we had gift vouchers which paid for part of it. Any deficit we come to each month eats at our buffer (this is not on a credit card if anyone is wondering...). November is the month that we are going to really work at bringing our 'buffer' up again - it is at roughly $5000 now, but I would like it to be atleast $8000 by the end of the year.

Mortgage cost was more this month as our split loan was finalised.

Groceries were more, about $20 more per week. Not really sure why - we have also had a bit of waste too, which is odd. We hardly EVER throw out food, it always gets eaten before it comes to that. I will have to keep an eye on it.

I am ecstatic about our 'Fun' money. We both spent a lot less than our max amounts. I spent about half of mine, and DF spent about $20 less each week.

Anyway, not a great month but not too bad.

Well, these are my September totals. They are conservative, in fact, we probably spent more than this, I just haven't kept track very well. Though I did go through the credit transactions, so this is *almost* everything.

Income:
$5477.30

Expenses:
Mortgage: $1523.08
Groceries: $508.14
Bills: $907.71
Petrol: $147.56
Personal Loan: $148
House Repairs/Maintenance: $158.62
Appliances/House: $151.45
Work Expenses: $317.65
DF Fun: $119.79
Me Fun: $201.08
Dining Out: $141.70
Entertainment: $64.00
Misc: $184.85
New Bed: $1498.00
Vet Bill: $644.55
Gifts: $24.41
Health/Grooming: $21.48
Total Spent: $6762.07

Deficit: $1284.77

I'm actually quite pleased with this figure! Even though it appears to be ugly (a minus is always ugly, unless it's on the scales!) we had some extra expenses that weren't planned. Car repairs, for one, which is why our bills were so high. Fortunately, I have a separate account for bills so that was covered. It is still an expense though.
The new bed. Probably could have found a cheaper one, but we are happy with the quality.
Vet bills, wasn't expected at all but what can you do? The $644.55 was for an emergency ceaserean for DF's dad's dog. (pictures still coming, I promise!)

Income was down too, that was another major factor. I had a week off, and DF is just starting to get back into full weeks of work.

Technically the new bed comes out of our 'stash' of money, (which is depleting rapidly! still there, but the pile is getting smaller! we are seriously going to focus on building it back up from now on.) If we take away the bed expense, we would be in a surplus rather than deficit, so there we have it.

Not sure if anyone here (other than those who live in AU of course!) have heard of Jessica Watson and her attempt to ber the youngest person to sail around the globe, unassisted? She left a few days ago from Sydney, before crashing into a freighter and having to make a stop near where we live. I've heard a few people's opinions on the subject, but the general concensus is that it's believed she has no idea what she's doing. (of course, she obviously does have SOME idea... otherwise she wouldn't be allowed to do it...) But, from television interviews she does seem a little immature. I can't help thinking that at home she must be a brat that wants some attention.
At work, there is currently a bet on how far she will get before she calls it off
To be honest though, I do hope she makes it. It will be one heck of an experience for her. I remember reading Jesse Martins book when I was about 12 and thinking it was the coolest thing.

In other news... there is no other news

We have enough points from our credit card to redeem for a 64 piece cutlery set, which would dearly come in handy when my parents arrive in a few weeks. We have about three forks, three knives, three spoons, and about 10 teaspoons (for coffees - the most important cutlery item, right? everything else pales in comparison...)

Thursday Expenses:
2.00 Staff Lotto
0.50 Coke
22.00 Beer (DF)
15.69 Groceries

Friday Expenses:
0.50 Coke

Currently Reading: The Messenger by Markus Zusak

Monday Expenses:
$136.42 Groceries

Tuesday Expenses:
$40.01 Petrol

Wednesday Expenses:
$9.00 Jewellery

---

Well, I can explain the jewellery! I got a $25 GC from a jewellery store loyalty card program for my birthday, and they were having a half price off sale. So I bought a butterfly necklace that was $69, for $9! I thought that was not too bad

I just watched a movie called Love The Beast, it is a documentary/movie Eric Bana made about his car I loved it.

Anyway, probably not a mainstream movie in the US so I doubt anyone would know what I'm talking about. But it does have Jeremy Clarkson, DR Phil & Jay Leno in it...

Went to the library on Monday to return some books and borrow new ones (yay! for free books). I am utterly disturbed by one of the books I am reading called Chemical Pink, about bodybuilders. It's like a car crash, you know you shouldn't, but you look anyway. I am a little repulsed by the book but be damned, I'm going to finish it!


Currently Listening To: He Was King - Felix Da Housecat

Well, other than our big spend on the bed yesterday, we didn't have a huge weekend.

Today was a NSD for me, DF spent $9 on the tip, he cut down a tree in our front yard.

I did some washing, tidied our bedroom and took Jed for a 45 minute walk, as well as doing 55 minutes of yoga.

I got some chocolate, homemade body scrub, a facewasher and some champagne from DF's sister, hubby and DF's mum, for my birthday.

Yesterday I forgot to mention I spent a gift voucher that my dad sent me for my Bday. I got a cd, The Best of Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, and Se7en on dvd, because DF said I would like it, and it has Brad Pitt in it

One of my closest friends is away on a competition, she is being flown to another state to compete, so I will be having a quiet and most likely productive week I tend to fob off chores to spend time with her.

Friday Expenses:
Coffee & Cake: $8.30

Saturday Expenses:
Bed: $599
Mattress: $899
Coffee: $5.30
Juice: $5.95
Woodwork Book: $15.99
Doona Cover: $75.00

Sunday Expenses:
Tip Fee: $9.50


I am now off to upload new music onto my ipod.

I've decided to start posting at the end of each entry something that I either just watched/read or am listening to. I used to do that on an old blog, so I'll start doing it here, as this is the only blog that I regularly update

Hope everyone had a lovely weekend.


Currently Reading: The New Financial Order

We bought a new bed frame and mattress!

Last week we checked out a few stores, but decided to go and look in another part of town. First off we went to a higher priced store, and tried a few mattresses. We decided on one and paid for it on the spot, as it was reduced from $1299 to $899 for today only.

The bed frames, being a higher priced store, were in the range of $700-$2500, and we thought we should go and check out some of the cheaper stores first. Once we got to them though, we realised that, yes, they were cheaper ($200-$900), for a reason! They just did not feel right. Cheaply made, with cheap materials, and no care taken with them. We went home to get DF's work van to pickup the mattress, and talked about spending a little more for a good quality frame.

We went back to the store we bought the mattress from and looked at the cheaper priced frames, deciding on one that was $699 - pine with a white gloss finish, very much suits the style of our house, it is called the 'Romany'. I'll have to post a picture of it next time. The woman knocked $100 off the price which took it down to $599. I also bought a doona cover for $75, marked down from $125. So we saved a bit, but spent a lot in the end. Can't wait to have the first sleep on our new bed though!

It is like heaven, really makes me realise what we were sleeping on before! In comparison our old mattress was like a bunch of coils covered by a sheet.

(These are both DF and my expenses)

Tuesday:
Lunch & Coffee: $8.95
Takeaway for Dinner: $14
Petrol: $14.75
Work Expenses: $46.00


Wednesday:
Dinner out: $76.70 (came with two free movie tickets)
Groceries: $15.70

Thursday:
DF Breakfast: $9.00
Energy Drink: $3.00

Income:
DF: $1733.00
Me: $2495.95
Other: $20.00
Total: $4248.95 ($1062.23 p/w)

Expenses:
Mortgage: $1523.08
Groceries: $573.08
Petrol: $222.96
(Bills)
Phone & Internet: $78.10
Car Repairs: $52.87
Mobile Phone: $56.75
House Insurance: $69.39
Life Insurance: $53.67
Property Rates: $1083.21

Personal Loan: $148.00
Pet Supplies: $17.50
House Repairs/Maintenance: $134.94
Appliance/House Gadgets/Tech: $13.79
Work Expenses: $210.02
Clothes: $12.00
Shoes: $313.95
Dining Out: $148.50
Entertainment: $12.87
Misc: $59.80
Gifts: $12.49
Health/Grooming: $99.75
DF Fun: $317.70
Me Fun: $307.25
Engagement Ring: $2000

Total Spent: $7521.67

Deficit: -$3272.72

Ok, so by first look this is all a bit scary. But add into the equasion:
Bills: $1393.99
Of which I had the amount in a separate account.
So, deficit is now: $1878.73, which is fine because the engagement ring was $2k. So TECHNICALLY we were in front this month by $121.27, if you can believe that. The purchase of the engagement ring was to be taken out of our savings.

DF also earned about HALF what he usually does, due to having no work on.

But, all in all, August was an expensive month. We spent more than we should have in terms of fun money, but only went out for dinner once, for DF's sisters marriage dinner. Bought running shoes, which were a huge expense at over $300.
Groceries are quite a bit more as we had a bit of a party last weekend.

Areas to improve in September:
Fun Money
Groceries
Petrol (???)
House Maintenance

Todays Spending:
Petrol: $36.47
Drink: $3.99
Gardening Stuff: $71.94
Underwear: $25.00
extra Engagement Invitations: $12.95
Coffee: $4.30

As the title suggests, we gave out our first invitation today, and got our first official rsvp. I will send the bulk of them tomorrow and drop off a few at houses that are close to ours to save postage.

Today I planted mint, rosemary, lettuce and tomatoes, and added a bit more potting mix & trimmed our basil and coriander.

The coriander seeded and looks like it's dying - I'm not an expert gardener, so can anyone tell me, I have heard before that once coriander seeds it's dead. Is that true? I've trimmed everything back, does that help?

Tonight we're having a bbq for dinner, DF's having rissoles and I am having vegetarian sausages, with a salad.

Expenses Friday 28/8
10.10 (DF's Lunch)
70.00 (2 x 2 course meals)
7.50 (drinks)
40.00 (drinks)
25.00 (clothes)
Total: $152.60

Expenses Saturday 29/8
17.40 (breakfast)
31.80 (farmers market)
10.00 (freshly ground coffee 250g)
3.50 (ginger beer)
15.00 (icecreams)
12.00 (work shirts)
12.87 (dvd - death at a funeral)
4.25 (cooking magazine)
9.95 (tattoo magazine)
5.00 (scratchie)
Totals: $121.77

Not a great deal happening on my end, but I thought I would write a quick update anyway.

I went to the accountants (work related) yesterday and while I was in the CBD I went to get Jed a toy DF and I had been talking about (it's a dumbell shaped toy that 'giggles' when it is moved - it's weird but we thought it was cute).

Well I 'accidently' stumbled into some other shops and bought: some tracksuit pants, a cardigan, a short sleeved vest and a singlet, as well as a book... I'm happy about all the items, and the prices too. I am still within my allowance for this WEEK, which is amazing considering the cost of clothes lately, and my 'allowance' which is only $60 a week!

I FINALLY called my dad and told him the good news about our engagement. My stepmum and sister also told us congratulations. I am looking forward to them visiting in a bit over a month. Now they want to know what to get us for our engagement present, I am really a shocker when it comes to suggesting presents, my mind just goes blank.

It's POSSIBLE that the guy might not be moving in to our house now. Whew. He might be moving in with DF's dad (and partner, and two kids, and two dogs...) I feel kind of bad when I look at it like that It is just the two of us and we have two spare rooms - and DF's dad is working his bum off trying to build in a room underneath his house (he's in the process of renovating - has been for YEARS) so his cousin can stay there.

*sigh* I just can't imagine dealing very well with living with someone again, that I don't know.

Today I spent $3 on a drink.

I am very pleased with our numbers for July:

INCOME:
DF: $3479.25
ME: $2970.30
Other: $186.25
Total: $6635.80

EXPENSES:
Mortgage: $1903.85
Groceries: $697.50
Petrol: $206.52
Phone & Internet: $77.39
Car Repairs/Maintenance: $18.95
House Insurance: $69.39
Life Insurance: $53.67
Car Payment: $185.00
Pet Supplies/Care: $366.80
House Repairs/Maintenance: $109.85
Appliances/House Gadgets: $18.10
Work Expenses: $106.48
Dining Out: $139.80
Entertainment: $47.50
Misc: $28.50
One Off Purchases: $548.00 (Personalised Plates & part payment speeding fine)
Gifts: $19.80
DF Fun: $349.56
Me Fun: $213.54
Extra Car Payment: $86.46
TOTAL EXPENSES: $5160.20

Total Remaining: $1389.14

Normally we would put the remaining into our mortgage or EF, but August is going to be a particularly expensive month, so my plan is to send $389.14 to the mortgage and keep the remaining $1k in our checking account (our everyday account and emergency fund).

Our 'other' income includes a $50 GC DF got with his personalised plates, a $30 check I got from emailcash, and my ebay earnings less postage. I still have a payment remaining, so I will take the fees out of that one for this month.

I am pretty darn happy with all of our totals this month. While there were some times where we felt a little deprived (friends calling and asking if we wanted to go to the movies on a non-cheap night. $15 for a movie? I don't think so! - but seriously, the reason we declined the offer(s) was sheer laziness - we just couldn't be bothered going into the CBD ) We still saw friends a LOT more than normal, had dinner out once, had lunch out several times, had friends over etc.

The only thing we overspent a lot on was grocery shopping, by about $20 a week ($140 a week instead of $120 which is what I 'plan' our budget around). I'd say that might have something to do with eating in for nearly all our meals, and cooking Jeds food. But we have been eating a lot more bread too, which hopefully offsets a little of the grocery expenses! (We get our bread for free).

What do ya'll think?

I have done so well this month with my personal allowance. I have been really trying hard to not spend any money, as I wanted to make up for my speeding fine, and also wanted to put any money I can onto my personal loan. On average I have spent $38.22 of my $60 (per week) allotment. DF has also done well, spending $46 of his $80 allotment.

My spending total also includes the dvd I bought, which I then sold some items on eBay to make up for.

Today I spent $3 on a coffee with friend. I didn't order anything else

When I got home from work, DF and I and his mum weeded a part of our property for 2.5 hours. Now we are going to go out to a local thai restaurant for dinner. We are going to pay for DF's mum because she helped us. The bill should be well under $100.

Our neighbour came over on Saturday and said some other neighbours had complained to him about our dog making a noise when we leave in the morning. First of all, we HAVE no other neighbours except them and the people who are on the higher side of the street - who also have a dog and are fine with Jed. There is also another dog three doors down that makes a racket about everything, and I mean everything.

Even so, I apologised and told him unfortunately it is going to take him a long time as he is older, already been with another owner, yadayadayada...

When we went to the shopping centre on Sunday to buy him some more toys, we pretended to leave and then when he started making a noise, DF went back and got him, and put him in the toilet and left him there for the time we were out

( and with his waterbowl, food, a couple of toys and a bed - why the toilet? because it is the only room you can have a window open where no one will break in!)

I am hoping by doing this he will start to associate his noise with being put in there. (???) He was quiet when we returned, so I don't think he makes the noise for a long time. Poor little guy has some serious issues!

---------------------------

So on the financial aspect of this post, we spent $80+ yesterday while shopping. I bought some new work shoes ($30) and DF bought two dvd's ($18). The rest were dog toys and treats. We bought him one of those toys called a kong ($14!). First we put vegemite in it because that's what some other people told DF that their dog liked, but Jed didn't like it that much, so we tried peanut butter. He liked that! But he is still a weird dog that prefers our company to food, bones or treats.

We also bought a coffee for me ($5.40) and a juice for DF ($6). How expensive are things lately? I realised I have not bought takeaway coffees for along time, only at cafes.

-------------------------------

We also had lunch (fish and chips) with our friends again at the park. This time DF and I got less chips, so got the price down to $18.90.

Today was Jed's first ever vet visit!

(His previous owner 'didn't believe' in vets. When I told the vet that, he said 'really, it's not that they don't believe in vet care, more that they don't believe in parting with money'.LOL!)

I have to say I think he did quite well. He did not pee on anything! He tried to bite the vet after the first needle, so he put a muzzle on him for the second, which worked fine.

The two things DF and I were worried about turned out to be completely normal quirks that are characteristic for a small dog breed. (His last ribs stick out instead of in, and one of his front legs turns to the outside when he sits or stands still).

For two needles (vaccination and heartworm), 3 months of flea control treatment, a worming pill and health exam it cost $209.50. We saved $15 for booking at the same time as our parents two dogs.

To get him desexed and microchipped it will cost us just over $250, which we will get done very soon. (He has been 'spending time' with DF's dad's female Jack Russell - we are 99% sure she is pregnant now, so we are just going to wait a bit to make sure, then book in for the procedure).

After that is done, his yearly registration will be $10 a year, instead of $106! So in three years the procedure will sort of pay for itself. I mean - if we didn't have a dog that would obviously be the cheapest option... but this is the best you can get next to NO dog!

I really liked the vet we went to. It was a man and he was very nice and helpful, and very calm, even when Jed went to bite him! He printed out LOADS of information for me because he is our first dog, even a leaflet on separation anxiety! And he gave me some numbers for obedience school too, which we might think about. He is quite a good boy to begin with but it wouldn't hurt to take him to some lessons.

One of them offers anti-bark collars for hire - anyone have any thoughts on those? Have you ever used them? Why would you NOT use them? Jed doesn't bark, but as I've mentioned, he howls. I know howling and barking are different - not sure if he should be 'punished' for howling. Don't even know if they work for it!

Thoughts, experiences and advice would be appreciated! I have never used one, only have known one person who has (who has used them on their farm work dogs) and am undecided on them. Please share! (Note: I don't actually INTEND to use one, I have no plans to get one, as he doesn't bark. I just want thoughts and experiencs! So, before anyone starts on me - I am not thinking of getting one FOR Jed.)

I decided to do a cool graph just like gamecock. Why? It's possible (probable) that I am procrastinating. But it was also interesting to see expenses broken up in a different way like that.
These are all averages. Sometime we put more into savings. Usually our bills are less per week. But as I said, averages. superannuation is put in by our employers, we do not make extra contributions.

So, I have been doing especially well with this 'only shopping once a week' thing. I mean, I always *tried* to do it, tried being the key word. Before, the shop was literally two minutes drive away, and it was JUST a supermarket. Now, it's about 7 minutes drive and it's a shopping complex. It makes me feel tired just thinking about it. I can feel my personal space being invaded already . I think I just can't be bothered going to the store more than I have to, it takes time and energy and I would rather be doing other things.

However, due to cold nights and cravings for hot chocolate, I had to get some milk earlier than usual. I decided to walk down to the corner store. I knew it would be expensive (at our work it is $3.60 for 2 L - compared to under $3 at the supermarket). But $4.00! What a joke!

Anyway. To further the idiocy of going to the corner store, I impulse bought a packet of gourmet double chocolate biscuits (well, you guys call them 'cookies'). $6.95! What the HELL was I thinking. Clearly, there was no thinking involved.

If it makes it any better, they were nice biscuits...? And there's half a packet left? But I've decided to make them from now on. I just need a good biscuit recipe. (as in, cookie recipe). Anyone? I tried making some a few weeks ago but they were too crumbly. DF ended up mixing them with icecream and I didn't eat any (I like one with my tea).

I went to the Growers Market yesterday like I usually do. It's organic and locally grown.

This is what I got for $29.50:

1kg ladyfinger bananas
1kg cavendish bananas
1kg baby carrots
1kg potatos
1/2 pumpkin
1 capsicum
500g green beans
500g field mushrooms
500g zucchini
1kg roma tomatoes
3 bunches bok choi
2 leeks
1 fancy lettuce
4 cucumbers
1kg brocolli
250g baby spinach leaves
500g onions

I usually only take $30-$40 each week. If I get everything I need for under that amount, I might buy some incense or some soap of some kind.

Income:
DF: $2888.00
Me: $2326.70
Other: $20.00 (surveys)
Total: $5234.70

Expenses:
Mortgage (Min): $1523.08
Mortgage Extra: $607.00
Groceries: $454.56
Petrol: $146.04
Phone & Internet: $77.39
Car Repairs: $120.10
Mobile Phone: $55.76
House Insurance: $69.39
Life Insurance: $53.67
Property Rate (Adjustment): $65.00
Car Payments: $148.00
Pet Supplies: $22.31
House Maintenance/Repairs: $504.14
Appliances/House Gadgets: $52
DF Fun: $349.99
Me Fun: $218.85
Dining Out: $258.74
Entertainment: $92.00
One Off Purchases: $320 (Engagement Ring Deposit)
Bank Fees: $2.00
Gifts: $67.30

TOTAL: $5186.01

$48.69 remaining

Notes:
Under budget in the grocery category, which is good, by about $7 a week. Next month will be interesting, as I will be counting Jeds food into the grocery budget as well.

I transfered $607 into the mortgage today, we've made over $1200 in extra payments so far. Interest hasn't hit yet, (hits tomorrow) but I am enjoying having our loan balance at under $300k, even if it is just for a day!!! Next month it should be *officially* under 300k though.
Spent a bit on house stuff this month, star pickets and fencing, etc.

DF did well this month with his Fun money - only $7.49 extra per week than his alotted amount. Considering he paid for framing for some posters and the rest was probably beer, he did very well.

My fun money total was $5.30 less per week than I was allowed to spend. I am going to leave this amount in the accounts, but in the future I am thinking of transferring it over to my car loan.

Dining out and entertainment were a little high, but we did not over indulge as such - the largest expense was a really nice restaurant which was kind of obligatory to attend that night as it was DF's sisters last 'childless night out'.

One off purchase was the engagement ring deposit - I thought I would be picking it up and paying the $2k this month, but they rang me and it will not be ready until August now. Which is a bummer - but that gives us another 4 weeks to buffer the cost.

I haven't really started on saving this month - more focused on making some extra payments. We still have approx $8k EF and around $700+ in our bills account.

Income: $5454.10

Expenditure: $5250.89

Mortgage Payments: $1572.46
Groceries: $498.81
Petrol: $246.74
Phone & Internet: $77.39
Car Registration (2 x 1 year): $1058
Electricity: $79.35
Car Repairs/Expenses: $63.00
Mobile Phone: $58
House Insurance: $69.56
Life Insurance: $53.67
Car Payment: $148.00
House Spending: $189.00
Work Expenses: $20.00
DF Fun: $413.83
WS Fun: $234.04
Clothes: $211.90
Dining Out: $78.60
Entertainment: $153.54
Misc: $19.00
Bank Fees: $2

Remaining: $203.21

NOTES: Groceries are higher this month due to our housewarming party - however, we are only $4 over 'budget' per week. This is probably due to me cleaning out the pantry at the same time. So it is good I decided to do that this month!

Car Registration is what really set us back this month. I mean, it didn't set us back, but, if we didn't have to pay it, it would mean we could have sent $1058 more to our mortgage or savings this month. As it is, we only have $203 remaining after all of our expenses. Which means, next month should be great. (SHOULD be).

DF is still spening more than his allowance per week. This month it was $23 per week. I said to him 'I have spent $2 less per week than I am allowed, and you have spent $23 more!' and he said 'yeah but you don't buy alcohol!' and I said 'yeah, but I get $20 less than you per week, and I have coffee with friends three times a week, buy my makeup and clothes and magaziens out of that too, remember!' Hrrrmmmmph!

Clothes expenses are actually out of my stimulus money - but it is an expense, and I added our stimulus money into last months income, so that is why I am listing the spending this month.

Dining out and entertainment aren't too bad, but could be better. $50 of that was for food for the party too (I bought it from work so it didn't really count as groceries).

DF got a cash withdrawal from another atm so we were charged a $2 fee, that's why we have bank fees this month. GRR! lol.

The $203.21 remaining will be paid into the mortgage. I am also going to start next week putting $180 into our E-saver account for bills. When I pay a bill I will just record it, and then transfer it back at the end of the month into our main account.

I am also going to start splitting the leftover money each month into two groups: mortgage pay off and EF fund. Even though it will be going into the same account, I will record it in a spreadsheet so that I have totals of how much we have put into each. Once things start settling down we will work out a buffer amount of how much we want in our everyday account (I was thinking $5k is a nice round number, but it's possible we could do $10k).

So, here's to June!

So I realise it's a rather controversial title. But I also realise there are a few people here who carry my line of thinking in the rewards aspect of credit cards.
There is NO WAY in the world do I ever advocate a credit card for anyone remotely irresponsible with spending. Let me just say that!
Credit cards are a very useful tool for many people. I have never had a problem with mine, and I currently have about 6. (I intend to close some and only have two or three very soon.) I also know that people get themselves in debt with credit cards over things that they can't help, like medical expenses or vet clinics or car repairs. That is unfortunate, but with motivation and a plan these things can be rectified.

Ok, so back to my title (just had to put a disclaimer in there!!! so that people realise I know what I'm talking about!)

I got our bill for the month. The past two months it's been roughly the same amount, so I would say our spending is pretty much the same as the months go along. We've managed to earn around 5300 points in just over two months. 3000 points equals a $25 gift card, so I can safely say that we probably earn around $50 every three months, or a bit more. Points are, I think, 1 for every $1. I am not quite sure. It could be $2 = 1 point... anyway. They have a lot of special offers that contribute to points as well, which helps. It's a good rewards scheme in our neck of the woods.

HOWEVER: THIS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH!

My grand plan was to earn enough to offset our $395 annual fee ($395 for an everyday account, unlimited withdrawals, homeloan account, offset account, free redraw, free extra payments, free gold credit card, free debit card, free high interest savings account, free financial planning interview, 10% off insurance, 0.05% off the standard rate - ok so obviously NOT free, but $395 a year for all those ain't that bad here).

Anyway, so $50 every three months means $200 a year. Which means in the end our banking costs us $195. Take into account we probably earn around $5 in interest a month, so that's $135 a year in banking fees.

So, I have come to the conclusion that we do not spend enough on our credit cards - OR we do not earn enough interest. My problem is, to earn interest, we have to put our money in an account that does not SAVE us interest off our homeloan, so that is basically out of the question. I do not think we can spend enough to offset the entire amount, but I think with planning, we can utilise our cc's a bit better. Currently we do forget and pay cash/debit for a lot of things. So this is a bit of a wakeup call I guess! It will make me think when I pull out a card to pay for something - but not in the usual way!

haha. yeah right.

No, actually... it is the title of a movie that I saw last night at the cinemas with a friend. I do not normally like paying full price for a movie ($16.50) but after watching it, I am happy that I did.

In the US you probably won't have it at the cinemas(but I could be wrong), it is an Australian film. Very well done with quirky characters, about a lower-middle-class family who's mother suffers a brain aneurism. She is not allowed to do heavy lifting, hold in sneezes or have sex. It's a great movie, if you ever get a chance to watch it, do so. It's a great look at ordinary life in a family, and all of the characters are really endearing. The family goes through such a tough year, made worse by the fact that the mother isn't feeling as close to her husband, and seems to also be going through a 'revelation' type phase of her life, almost like a mid-life crisis. So, as I said before, it's a heartwarming story, see it if you ever get the chance.

We also went out for dinner before the movie, to a nice little vegetarian restaurant. I have been there a few times, it was originally run by hare krishnas but they have taken a step back. Their merchandise is still there, and they still play their music, though. They also give out over 200 meals per week to the homeless.

Anyway. So dinner was $13.50, movie was $16.50, and I also bought a coffee.

Yesterday I also went to the growers market for fruit and vegetables, and spent $27.50.

This morning I went to another market with the intent of buying marigolds to plant near my lettuces, so the bugs don't eat them, but about half the stalls weren't there! The weather has been very windy and rainy lately, so I understand. But they missed out on my sale! I spent $4 on a coffee.

I am planning on going to the supermarket for a few odds and ends. I think I may even be able to stretch this pantry challenge to the week after next week! Why? Because we will probably have leftovers from the party, which I would like to incorporate into our meals next week to use them up.

Oh I nearly forgot:
My exercise challenge for the month was to do 12 sessions of 40 minutes or more of exercise.
Well!
Week 1: 2 sessions (40 minutes yoga each)
Week 2: 5 sessions (60 minutes yoga each)
Week 3: 6 sessions (5x60 minutes yoga, 1x40 minutes pilates each)
Week 4: ?

So, I have done 13 sessions, and I have a whole week to go. I have exceeded my goal and have 7 days left to go!

Next week I plan to do atleast two sessions of pilates, as well as yoga. I know that I will be unable to do any on Saturday, and possibly Sunday, as we will have people over.
I know that yoga is meant to be relaxing, but the dvd that I have is actually really hard! (which I like!) DF snorts and says 'yeah, but I bet it doesn't get your heart rate up', and well, there are several sequences where I am out of breath, so ha!

I have decided it is about time I worked out our bills budget. Actually, our budget in general. I am not the type to stick to a budget religiously, but if I have a figure in my mind, I automatically factor that into things when purchasing or choosing to spend money. Of course we go 'over' in many categories, but who's making the rules anyway? We are. So we're breaking our own rules. And if we aren't hurting anyone, or going into debt, does it REALLY matter? Everything sorts itself out in the end.

Having said that, I like to be super organised anyway. I like to have everything written out, and planned. Not that I necessarily stick to any plans, but I like to have them!

I want to start putting away money each week again for our bills. While it will take away from our main account, and may mean a little bit more interest on our home loan in the process, the amount would only be very small, so I think peace of mind is more important in that respect. I just paid DF and my vehicle registration for the year, and it occurred to me that if we didn't have a nice balance in our account, the $1058 I had just forked over would worry me a bit. A year ago it would have not worried me, because I used to put a weekly amount into a bills account. Now we do not, as I wanted to have all the money in one account. But alas, I have realised I am not 'that' type of person. *sigh* I need to have atleast some things split up so I can relax a little in terms of money and accounts. It just makes me nervous to have all of our money together.

So, I endured the painful process of estimating our bills for a year:

House & Contents Insurance 69.56 monthly
Life Insurance 53.67 monthly
Phone & Internet 79 monthly
Mobile Phone 55 monthly
Electricity 240 3 monthly
Gas 100 6 monthly
Car Registration 1058 yearly
Car Insurance 478 yearly
RACQ Membership 62 yearly
Car Repairs 1000 yearly
Property Rates 1900 yearly
Bank Package Fee 395 yearly

I cannot think of any other bills at the moment. Is there anything missing???

At the moment, with the current amounts, that would mean that we spend approximately $9139.76 on bills per year. So if I were to put that away weekly, it would equal $175.76 per week. So if I rounded it up to $180 per week, that should cover everything.

I am doing well with the pantry challenge. I have decided to not make 'plans' for any meals for the rest of the week and just cook whatever I feel like for dinner when the time comes. Today I bought yoghurt, vege chips and frozen spinach. I didn't have to buy them, I was at the grocery store with a friend and thought 'oh, a new vege chip flavour!' (lime and chilli) and 'oh, that looks like a yummy gourmet yoghurt!' and 'oh i have a pizza base in the freezer, that spinach will do nicely...!'

anyway! I didn't do too much damage, $11.23 all up.

I may just buy the basic fresh fruit and veges at the farmers market on the weekend and stock up on VERY BASIC supplies, like milk, at the supermarket, and continue the challenge into next week.

I will have to start organising for our housewarming next week too. Eeek!

The food plans have been revolving in my head for the past couple of weeks. Here is what I have so far:

To be out when guests arrive:
- Chopped carrot & celery with homemade hommous dip.
- A couple of gourmet bought dips (cashew & basil, beetroot & pinenut).
- These nifty little parmesan dippers I am planning on making, made out of puff pastry and then sprinkled with parmesan and twirled, then oven baked.
- Some lavash bread sprinkled with olive oil and rosemary, then oven baked for a few minutes til crispy, for dipping.

- Some fruit. I was thinking maybe just a bowl of grapes, as I don't want anything that will go brown. (ew).

- A few packs of potato chips.

For a bit later on:

- A couple of bags of spiced potato wedges with chilli sauce.

- Mini guinness pies (DF's request)

- Mini quiches

- Mini cupcakes

- Mini spinach & fetta rolls.


I was thinking that would probably be enough. Then I might go with gamecocks suggestion and order some pizzas later on for who ever is still hanging around at about 7.30-8pm. I'll probably stock up on some soft drinks and ice teas for the non-drinkers. (I'm not planning on drinking myself except perhaps a glass or two of champers).

Does that sound like an alright plan?
So far I have had 13 RSVP's as yes, and 4 maybes, but the official rsvp date is on Friday. I am expecting a Yes from 8-10 more, and am not sure about another 10 or so. All of our friends are quite slack on rsvping, they assume we know they are coming. It's all good and well for laid back events where everything is BYO, but it annoys me to no end when you're actually planning the thing. GAH!

Well, DF and I went in and bought two. It was a $96 saving, and we only spent $69. We do not have a lot of blankets, but we do have 6 available places for guests to sleep (a double fold out sofa, a day bed, a single futon, a double blow up mattress and two single beds )- so it was a neccesary investment.

We also bought a book each. DF bought an antiques price guide. It was also on sale from $125 to $20. We would never buy it for $125, but $20 is a good price seeing as DF will actually use it. I bought a cooking book by Rick Stein, for $10, saved $20.

Today I have a doctors appointment. Fingers crossed for me everything is good!

Well, that's what today felt like anyway.

We had to buy some new towels and a guest blanket. It took us about half an hour to decide what towels to buy in Myer. They were having great specials on Sheridan, Vue and Country Road towels, but in the end we opted for some organic cotton towels made by an australian made and owned company. And they were softer anyway! We bought 4 @ $15 each (2 beige and 2 x navy), and 2 x navy handtowels @ $10 each.
We also bought a beige fleecy cotton blanket that was marked down from $55 to $23. And then we decided to buy some flanelette sheets for our bed, marked down from $70 to $40, seeing as it is winter...
AND THEN we decided to have lunch out as well, @ $46.40.

I have had a pretty productive day today. We got up late (around 8am). DF worked for a few hours and I went to the market and did our weeks worth of grocery shopping. I think I must have been in a 'spendy' mood because I bought a magazine, some hair dye and a pair of jeans as well! The magazine and hair dye comes out of my fun money, and the jeans come out of my stimulus money. I have $428.62 remaining

So, when I got home I cleaned the kitchen and did the breakfast dishes, started cleaning the bathroom & cleaned the toilet, and did my 60 minute yoga dvd.

DF is restoring a table downstairs, so it will be shiny and newly coated for our housewarming party.

My list of things to do today:
- finish cleaning the bathroom
- tidy my desk
- tidy the rest of the office
- tidy the loungeroom & dining roomb tables
- bring in and fold clean washing, put away
- prepare dinner (freshly made ravioli )

As the title suggests, April was the first month I have tracked our totals together.

I am still working out how to get it into a system so that it works easily for us - at the moment i just ask DF to tell me what he spends every day. He is getting better at remembering it now - but still needs to work on the cents part of it! ("spent twenty bucks on beer" "twenty? or $19.75? or $20.50? there's a difference!" "pfft, just put $20") *sigh*

So, here we go!

INCOME:
Earnings: $5004.80
Other: $3129
Total: $8133.80

EXPENSES:
Mortgage Payments: $2150.75
Groceries: $564.24
Petrol: $241.30
Internet & Phone Bill: $263.90
Car Repairs: $479
Car Engine: $1910 (one off expense)
Engine Hoist: $130 (one off expense)
Mobile Phone: $49.63
Life Insurance: $93.64
House Repairs & Maintenance: $304.32
Appliances/House Gadgets: $237.28
Gifts: $101.50
Health & Grooming: $108.90
Misc: $51
Dining Out: $231.67
DF Fun: $551.89
WS Fun: $395.58

Total Spent: $7864.60

Remaining: $269.20

Extra Payments Made: $333.14

While I agree it looks like we are cutting it fine, and not saving, generally speaking most months we won't be dropping $2k on car engines! So I think we did quite well, considering.

I worked out my figures wrong, so that is why more was paid into the loan that was actually remaining at the end of the month. Normally what I will be doing is calculating what is left and adding that back into the loan for savings or extra mortgage payments.

DF did not earn very much at all last month, it was quite slow. He had nearly two weeks off. I also had days off, so my earnings are down too. I am looking forward to May, as our earnings should be back to normal, and our spending should be under control.

Notice there is no longer a Bank Fees amount listed? Yes! Now we only have an annual bank fee, that we hope to offset with our credit card rewards. Yahoo!

Hmmm, not sure what else I should comment on here. Yes, DF's 'Fun' money is high, mine is also slightly higher than should be, but some of that is spending from my stimulus package, which I haven't bothered to seperate. DF is going to work on his Fun spending this month. Our dining out is high, even though it was only dining out once a week. Which I think is pretty reasonable really. Maybe we will push it to once every two weeks. Generally it is only when people come over, and we go out for lunch or something.

The phone & internet bill is high because it is the transfer fee for moving - I accidently put it in last months expenses too, so I will have to remove it from there.

All in all, I am happy with our first month of spending in the new house.

House Appliances & Gadgets were: a muffin tin, a set top box, and a slow cooker. The house maintenance & expenses were mainly gardening supplies and equipment, plus some other items like a rubbish bin, a front door mat, a sink strainer, window locks etc.

The experiment I mentioned - well, I did it as much as I could stand. Mainly my downfall was airconditioning - there were a couple of days where I could NOT drive without it. Well. I could - if I wanted to arrive a sweaty mess to a cocktail party. Some of the days this week were over 30 degrees! And it's supposed to be getting colder? Bah.

So really I did not try much at all with my experiment this week, but I did manage to do 202 kilometres (125.51 miles) with 15.4 litres (4.06 gallons), which cost me $18.25.

So, if I am working that out correctly, I got:

13.11 kilometres per litre

or

30.91 miles per gallon.

So I got nearly an extra kilometre per litre.

So apparently 30.91 mpg is bad??? I have no idea. I have people in my (real) life saying 13.11 km/l is GOOD, but my last post had people saying it was bad. So I am severely confused now. (remember i drive a 4 cyl automatic in a hilly area, with a sports exhaust system that is apparently meant to increase 'performance', ie. use more petrol? it was like that when i bought it)

Well, I have not posted for a few days.
On Saturday I bought a skirt that I had been eyeing off for months ($35). I also bought a singlet top ($10.38) and another nice top with lace-y bit on the shoulders ($31.99). Our toaster died, which we paid $9.98 for about four years ago. I decided to upgrade, and bought a $27.95 Breville toaster. Fingers crossed it lasts a bit longer! I also bought a coffee $3.75 and a headband $3. Yesterday we went out for lunch, so DF and I bought a membership to the RSL (won't let you in without one) $11. Lasts until the financial year end (June) but they also gave us $12 in drink vouchers. Our meals were delicious - we spent $27.95.

DF hopes to have his car going by the weekend. It is exciting for him as he hasn't had a car (that goes) in YEARS.

I have been having a recurring dream that my car won't start. Which is odd because I have NEVER had a problem with the ignition in real life, it always turns over in the first few seconds. I wonder what this dream is meant to mean?