Sunday, March 11, 2012

Trying to Save Money

I'm 24 and living with my parents. Last year I was in Aspen, CO working and living with 3 roommates paying $450 a month.

I could have stayed up there but I missed home. I missed my friends, family and not having to worry about snow. When I came back in April 2011 I looked and found a job. I told myself that I would save money and move out as fast as possible. I still have my job but I can't afford to live on my own right now. My monthly income is just a few dollars more than what the monthly expenses would be if I had an apartment for myself.

I am still living at home almost a year later and saving as much money as I could. I love my family more than anything but I am determined to live the life that is my own. I am starting and here are just a few things that help me save money.

Other blogs & websites:
In my spare time, I look through other blogs and websites, of how to save money. Most of them are geared toward mothers, (which I don't plan to be in the near future!) but it is good to get ideas and maybe use those ideas in my own life and toward the future. Unfortunately, I've seen very few legit blogs or posts from people in their 20's, but hopefully I can change that.) I take inspiration from each of the blogs I use and mostly apply it to my everyday life.

Coupons:
Before I know I will go out and buy something, I will try my hardest to find a coupon. Not only is it for groceries, but also services and restaurants. I am not an extreme couponer by any means, but I always believe saving a little money goes a long way. I do have a lot of rules regarding my coupons though. (I'll put that in another post.) But I am just starting out and sometimes I can get a little overwhelmed.

Free entertainment:
There is a lot to do in So Cal and some of those things are free. Going to the beach, the park, the library, borrowing a movie, bike riding are all free things to do that are accessible everyday. (When I worked for Disneyland Resort it was nice to get free parking and free admission in. It used to be one of my forms of entertainment.)

I also look in the newspaper, city websites, city blogs, and other resources for special events happening. I usually am mindful of the extra costs that come along with free events, such as parking and food, and I usually ask myself if it's worth it. Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't.

Just saying "No"
I am not a cheapskate, but I've had to say no to some friends when they suggest things that are a little out of my price range or I know I just should not buy. My friends will probably tell you I am pretty restrictive with my money but I am just looking toward my future. Like couponing, a little can go a long way. I do ask myself, do I really need more (fill in the blank)? My boyfriend, Ryan, has taught me that it is always good to meet in the middle. In my experience, when done right, compromising turns out great!


Hopefully these little suggestions help. And hopefully I will be writing more posts in the future!


Went to Bayshore Beach to do some kayaking for my birthday. Cheap and awesome!

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