Cheap Get-Aways and Nights Out

Currently I am on a strict budget where much of my money goes towards paying debt.  It has been really hard at times to say no to some fun concerts and most recently to a mini-vacation with friends.  I just remember that my main goal is to be debt free by the end of the year and save up for a healthy emergency fund, which will make life so much better in the long run.  Sometimes you have to say "no" to do what you know is right in the end.  Finally, I have learned to use that word when necessary.

Since my fiance and I are both working towards being debt free and saving for the wedding/honeymoon, expensive vacationing is simply out of the question this year.  Life can become monotonous however, so we are finding ways to get out of the house on a tight budget.

Camping

First, we have discovered the fun of camping.  I realize camping is not for everyone with the dirt, bugs and lack of electricity, but it is nice to connect with the environment and turn off all the electrical noise to just exist.

One thing I never thought about before was the price of a camp site versus a hotel.  We realized that we could travel to various places and stay at a camp site for super cheap, versus spending about one hundred bucks on a hotel for a night. 

Bike Adventure

We took a trail that covers a large distance in North East Ohio and discovered places, towns and cities we didn't know existed.  We only rode for a couple hours, but you can cover a vast distance on a bike if you have good stamina.  Not only do you get exercise which is good for your health, taking a bike adventure is free.

We took a trail called the Towpath, then walked around a town called Canal Fulton.  My fiance picked up the map for the trail from a local bike shop. 

Free Shows/Concerts

Where we live there are free shows at local bars, such as the ones our local radio station does for up and coming country stars.  I actually got to meet Thompson Square at one of these shows before they got huge!  Check your local paper or city website for free events.

I got to meet the Jane Dear Girls and many other up and coming stars as well!  

Oriental Poppy Flowers

They have large, furry and jagged leaves with light green alien like pods.  

Almost weed like, they are not asethetically pleasing to the eye, that is....until they bloom.  

I have fallen in love with these oriental poppies that were planted by the previoius family, the only owners who built this home from ground up over fifty years ago.  

Since we purchased the house in winter, I was unaware of the beautiful flowers planted on the property.   

I look forward to watching these bloom each year, for many years to come. 

Behavior Change - Keeping a Food and Exercise Log

It seems that the past two winters I have fallen into unhealthy eating patterns.  Summers tend to be no problem since I am not teaching, but come December with high stress levels and unruly students I find my self loading up on coffee and refined carbohydrates.  Since I can see this is a pattern, it is time to start over and work to prevent this next year!

Knowledge does not always equal behavior

Knowledge is an essential part to changing behavior.  If you are going to eat healthier you must understand what foods are good for your body.  Most of us know that eating a diet high in sugar, chemicals, fast food, refined carbohydrates, etc. is bad for our health; however, this knowledge does not always equate to positive behavior.  What we know is not necessarily how we behave.  Sometimes, there are obstacles in the way preventing us from changing the behavior or sometimes it is a lack of motivation.  Possibly it is apathy.

Motivation and Overcoming Barriers

First, one has to be motivated to change behavior and willing to make the commitment to overcome any obstacles that block success.  Understanding what barriers exist is beneficial.  For example, one of the reasons I tend to eat unhealthy is because I am stressed out and on the go during the work day.  My obstacle is time, therefore I need to plan ahead by having meals already prepared for the day in order to succeed.

If you don't succeed immediately, don't give up!  Behavior change takes time.

There is this idea called the "rule of three" in behavior change, meaning that it can take up to three times of doing something to successfully change the behavior.  I believe it may take more attempts then three because one is breaking an old habit and starting a new behavior.  Once something becomes a good habit, it is automatic.  It is difficult for some to push past this uncomfortable stage as there will be relapse.

Here's what I am doing to try to eat healthier....

Training and Food Diary

First, I am planning meals and snacks so I know exactly what I need to buy when shopping.  Next, I am holding myself accountable by keeping a food and exercise log.  I feel that eating healthy is very necessary, but exercise is one of the single most important things you can do for your body.  We as humans are built to move and nothing signals our cells to decay more then being sedentary.  I find that I have lower stress when I exercise, which was one of my obstacles above to eating healthy.  Therefore, exercise will help to alleviate stress and planning will help to alleviate the other obstacle, time.

My food and training log

Writing down food that is eaten each day helps build awareness towards patterns in your diet that are unhealthy.  Also, you become conscious of what you are consuming and putting into your body.  My log has separate pages for both daily food intake and exercise.  This has actually become fun for me to fill out and I find that I work to improve upon my exercise regime each week.  

I could use some more veggies in my diet!

Types of Foods to focus on


If you have health issues or other problems, consulting with a nutritionist or doctor can be beneficial before starting to exercise and changing dietary habits.  When I found out I had food allergies the dietitian guided me away towards foods that could cause me harm.

There are so many diets on the market that claim quick weight loss.  Much of this is modern day quackery and a scheme to make money.  Eating healthy requires adopting a new way of life.  A quick fix diet will not  permanently change your behavior, however American spend millions believing these claims while our nation becomes fatter.  Your diet is simply what you eat on a daily basis.  From my studies as a health educator, I believe it is important to limit refined carbohydrates (white bread, cookies, many packaged snack foods) and processed or packaged food loaded with extra chemicals.  Incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into each day is essential as it will add nutrients and fiber.

Taking control of what you eat by preparing your own meals much of the time instead of eating out will make the process much easier.  Eating when hungry and eating slow is important because it takes the brain about 20 minutes to know you are full.

Overall, behavior change takes time and patience.  Be kind to yourself in the process but stay motivated and results will come.  Stay excited to work towards adopting healthier habits!  

I Love Schnooodles

Maestro the Schnoodle 

Schnoodles are part poodle and part schnauzer.  I love our Schnoodle Maestro.  Actually his full name is Maestro Sugarbaby Hecate which is inspired by our love of music, all things cute and the heavy metal genre.  It's funny that when you get to know the personality of something that all of a sudden a new nickname starts to stick.  We often call Maestro "Pigs" or "Mr. Pigs" because when he gets excited he starts grunting like a pig.  

Why I love Schnoodles....

1.  They are Soft and Cuddly 

Maestro's fur is extremely soft.  Since schnoodle's are part poodle, they have more of a hair like texture.  Shedding tends to be very minimal to non-existant with this dog.  Certain dogs seem to bother my allergies, but since Maestro is part poodle I have not experienced any difficulty.  This dog loves to snuggle and sit on laps.  

2.  They Have Unique Personalities 

Though maestro is small at fourteen pounds he is very athletic, maintaining a big dog mentality.  He is great with people and other dogs.  He has his own unique quirks and is always entertaining to watch.  My fiance swears the dog has said "I love you" and "Hello".  

3.  They are loving and loyal

Maestro will rest his little chin at the sill of our big picture window with his tiny head peeking through the curtains just waiting for us to come home.  We do not have a problem with him running out of the yard, because he hates being away from our side.  Though schnauzers can have a stubborn streak, we have found maestro to be extremely loyal to follow command while consistenly displaying his gentle character.     

Spring Fling

I had a week off work for spring break which was absolutely lovely.  No set in stone plans were made and I was able to actually relax for a change.  I enjoy being alone to simply exist.

The trees are flowering....

It actually felt like spring a few days over break which is sometimes unusual for an Ohio vacation in April.  Of course it tried to snow a few of the days, but seeing the sun shine through the trees in the morning was pleasant. 

Taking the time to just breath and soak in the beauty of my backyard was refreshing.  It is imperative to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the outside world and enjoy some of the simple things in life.  

I was worried about the lilac bush as it was looking ragged, but the deep purple flowers are coming in nicely.  Surprisingly, spring break in Ohio has been wonderful!

The Joys and Nightmares of Being a Bridesmaid

So you are deciding if you want to be a bridesmaid in your friends wedding?  

  This is written from my perspective as a former bridesmaid in two very different weddings.  Now that I am in the process of planning a wedding I want to make sure I am reasonable with my maid of honor, who is also my only bridesmaid. We decided that since my fiance only had one real close friend it didn't make sense to pick people as fillers just for the sake of following tradition.  It was important to pick people who have been there for many years and will continue to be there for years to come.  My fiance's best man has been his friend since second grade and my maid of honor has been my buddy since fourth grade.

My Experience as a Brides Maid in Two Weddings

Wedding 1 - I was the maid of honor and there were 3 additional brides maids, wedding was a big wedding but budget friendly, wedding and reception were at one location, bachelorette party was local, laid back bride

Wedding 2 - I was a brides maid along with 8 other girls, meticulous and elegant wedding, church wedding with reception at a country club, out of town bachelorette party, high pressure for details


The Importance of the Relationship

First, it is important to consider your relationship with the bride to be.   Is this person important in your life and do you enjoy spending time together?  When my friend of 15 years asked me to be her maid of honor I was extremely excited and honored.   In the other wedding in which I was offered a bridesmaid position, I said yes because my friend had been there through some rough times.  If the person is a relative there may be more of an obligation in the matter as not to stir up the family relations.

Also, if there has been drama in the relationship in the past, often times weddings tend to bring out the worst in people.  If you know your friend is high maintenance you may be in for a bumpy ride and incur some catty drama throughout the process.   I also feel that sometimes the more bridesmaids involved in the party, the more drama that can occur.   However, if you truly love your friend you may make the choice to put up with this. Or you may come out of the situation with disdain for your friend!

Upon the completion of wedding two I was crying from the long day.  Upon the completion of wedding one I was ready to go out a party some more.

.... But if you are still on the fence there is another factor to consider


The Cost 

Naively, I had no idea my bank account and credit score would suffer from choosing to be a bridesmaid.  If you are strapped for cash and teetering on your choice to be in the wedding talking with your friend about your situation is important.  You of course may kindly decline.  If this person is a good friend they will definitely understand and take your money considerations to heart.  Weddings may be princess day and all about the bride, but it is also about celebrating the event with those who are close and dear.

For example, my maid of honor's husband just got laid off from work. Luckily, he found another job, but had they been struggling for money I would have paid for my friends dress and made the situation as easy as I could for her because I want her to be a part of my wedding.  Again, for me weddings are a celebration of two people's love and do not have to be greedy or over consumptive.  The two weddings I was in were very different in economic respect.  Being a bridesmaid actually cost me more then being a maid of honor.   Below is a layout of the cost for the different aspects involved in a bridesmaid's journey for those who are curious.  These are approximate numbers of course.

Maid of Honor (me) and lovely bride

Wedding 1 (Maid of Honor)            

Dress with alterations:  $175                                  
Bachelorette Party:  $75                                  
Shower favors, gifts, etc.:  $75                                                    
Hair and Makeup (optional):  $80                                                      
Overnight Accommodations:  $0                                  
Wedding Gift:  $40                                

Total for Wedding 1 = $445                


Wedding 2

Dress with alterations:  $275
Bachelorette Party:  $125
Shower Gift:  $20
Hair and Makeup (not optional):  $80
Overnight Accommodations:  $125
Wedding Gift:  $40

Total for Wedding 2 = $665

The Break Down

As you can see it is really the dress that can be outrageous!  At the time I didn't have the cash and had to put the dresses on my credit card.  Unfortunately for me the two weddings were a week apart!  The dress that cost me $275 was a pretty dress, but after wearing it all day going from church to two outdoor places for pictures (a lake then downtown), then for reception festivities it felt extremely uncomfortable as any dress would.  I just don't feel like wearing it again nor have I had a place to wear the dress, and that goes for both.  That is the one thing about being a bridesmaid that is extremely unreasonable and I hope to make easier for my maid of honor.  Two-hundred dollars is a lot of money for someone to shell out on a dress they may only wear one time.

Depending on the circumstances, the bachelorette party can be pricey.  Bachelorette parties out of town can add up because of overnight accommodations.  I feel like I have done a lot of partying, and I'm sure my bachelorette party won't be the last time I hang out with my friends, but I understand the sentiment.  If my friends and I were all millionaires of course going out of town would be tons of fun.  But I feel bachelorette parties can be fun without being over the top expensive.  Wedding 2's bachelorette party was out of town so the cost of hotel, meals and drinks added to the damage.  A night of trying to keep track of everyone and keeping all the irresponsible drinkers safe is not always my idea of a good time.

If money is not an issue for you then none of this will be relevant, but if you are concerned I hope this at least gives you an idea of how things can add up quickly.  Maybe choosing to be in the wedding, but declining the bachelorette party or visa versa can still help you to be a part of your friends special day without drying out your bank account. 




However, there were many beautiful moments during wedding two of course!  Being in a wedding is definitely a memorable experience and choosing to be part of your friends day is unforgettable!

My future husband and I

Breaking the Shackles of Debt

As much as I try to live in the moment, I feel it is important to know where you are going in life.  I have been setting goals for a while now, both short term and long term.  My goals in the past have always seemed to focus on school and finding a career, but now I am focusing on working towards a more fulfilled life.

After my epiphany, I decided to get my finances in order.  I documented each and every purchase daily.  I used Microsoft excel to do this because there is already a template for monthly budgets.  I was also able to see the breakdown of where my money was leaking.  This was extremely helpful in plugging the specific leaks.  Much of my money was going to credit cards and meals out.

Credit cards will trap you.  I know people who use them to make money, such as in the rewards programs, but they have the funds to pay off the bill each and every month.  I do not have it together enough to use credit cards at all so I made the decision to stop purchases using credit.

If you don't stop spending on credit cards it is hard to pay them off because of finance charges.  Many purchases on my credit card were not necessary to my immediate survival.  I have not yet starved to death or been in a life threatening situation where I have absolutely needed my credit card.  It is all about your mindset.  If you convince yourself you need something, you will make excuses as to why you absolutely had to use the credit card to make the purchases.

Next, I needed to determine wants v. needs.  Being too lazy to cook or meal plan was costing me big bucks.  I now have been meal planning for some time and we eat out no more then once a week, sometimes less.  I actually prefer eating at home and am often disappointed by the poor quality of meals at many restaurants for the cost.  I enjoy cooking and love the benefits that home cooked goodness has on my health.  

Here were some of the goals I made for 2012

1.  Pay off half of discover card off by February 2012.

2. Work out 2 – 3 times a week.

3.  Spend less money on eating out at restaurants.

4.  Make own breakfast in morning and lunches (Will save 5 – 8 dollars a day.)

5.  Get at least one of my two credit cards completely paid off.

6.  Stop using credit!!!!

I have gotten everything done except goal number five, but I'm almost there.  Previous to my goals, I was spending too much money, eating out three or more times a week and working out barely once a week!  It feels good to know that soon I will be able to build up a healthy emergency fund and savings because I will not be throwing tons of money at credit cards every month!  I have also been able to cut my cost in other areas as I realized I didn't need to rely on shopping or television to fulfill me.  Many of these goals, such as spending less eating out and not using credit cards are now habits.  Once I broke my bad habits I was able to create healthy habits that are automatic.  

Good luck to anyone out there who is working towards reducing debt.  It can be done if you make a plan!