Coupons & Deals

If you spend much time on the internet, I would encourage you to check out the Kansas City on the Cheap blog.  The writers of the site have frequent postings of food coupons, free/cheap festivals, concerts, and local activities.  For example, if you look on the site today, you can see where to get free Cold Stone Ice Cream, a free meal from Panda Express, and a free Mrs. Fields Cookie.  Check back frequently, or subscribe with your favorite RSS reader.

Looking to make the clothing budget stretch?

If you've got kids, check out the Here We Grow Again consignment sale.  These are supposed to be some of the biggest sales in the KC area.  KMBC has a story about the sale that ends this weekend in Olathe.  There are several sales around the metro the next few weeks, show check out the website for times and locations.  You can even sell some of your gently used clothing.

Details: http://www.herewegrowagain.biz/

The "B" word

That's right.  It's time to talk about the budget.  *and the nerds rejoiced*  This week we are going to learn how to put together a successful budget, tell our money what to do and use the envelope system to avoid overspending.  This lesson is the first where real action and commitment are needed.  This is not easy, but as Dave says, it is worth it.  I hope you plan on joining us as we tackle this together.

Don't forget, we want to celebrate victories as we go along.  Last week we heard about people who found better deals on dog food, eliminated cable, completed baby step 1, and put money in savings for the first time.

The budget forms are in the back of your workbook, but can also be found online.  (you'll need extra copies) http://www.daveramsey.com/tools/budget-forms

Other items of note:
If you do most of your banking online, check out www.mint.com (free), as Mark mentioned last week.  This is a website that can help you track your money, and can be a great supplement to your budget.

E Mealz ($5/month) and ALDI Meal Planner (free) as possible ways to improve your grocery shopping/planning/savings

Here's another Debt Free call for motivation


FPU is now on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/FinancialPeace

Week 2 - Relating with Money

Tuesday, September 14th will be our second meeting.  In week 1 we discussed saving for emergencies, purchases and retirement.  We did a brief overview of the baby steps and even covered Murphy's law.  Lesson 2 is all about how money effects our relationships.  We'll talk about husbands/wives, singles, kids, nerds and free spirits.  I hope you are looking forward to continuing this series and don't forget to bring your quickie budget.