Hello!

Hello. I wanted to introduce myself. My name is Stephanie. I am married now for three years to my wonderful husband Kyle. We have 2 children, Kayley 3, Benjamin 1, and have a new bundle on the way in December. My husband and I both work full-time on alternating shifts so we can raise our kids and survive financially.

I am starting this blog because I am embarking on a new journey.  News of my third child was definitely a surprise, and we realized that two full-time working parents would just not work for three kids 3 and under!  So after I have this baby I will be going part time at work. I have worked full-time since I was 18 so this is very scary for me. What makes it even harder is that my husband and I always manage our own bills and spending money since our income is virtually the same.  Now, I will be handing over my measly paychecks to him to manage our bills. I don't know how to cope with not having my own money! This will be about a $15,000/yr pay cut for us so I have decided to make some changes in our lives.

We have always lived pretty comfortably on our income. Meaning.... when I want that Chipotle burrito bowl, I get it. My daughter needs a better pair of shoes for an outfit, I buy them. No, we do not have enough to buy high end electronics whenever we want or anything like that, but small purchases were fine. Now, I need to start cutting all this out. I am looking to trim bills down such as cable. I don't really need 200 channels. Sure its nice, but no. Eating out budget is gone! Anything I can think of to add to my savings is happening.  Now savings is a whole different ballgame... WE HAVE NONE!!! I know, I know... we must be crazy.  We are horrible savers. I have 6 months to get as much money saved up as possible before I cut back at work so I don't worry myself into an early grave.

So this blog will be about all different things. Couponing... yes I know there are a million, but its an important part of saving money. Freezer cooking, sewing, survey sites, organizing my home better so I can accommodate my growing family, etc. It will be about everything that has to do with managing my family, but mostly saving money. Remember, this is a journey for me.  I obviously don't know how to save, but know I need to learn. I feel blogging will help me be accountable, and also give me an outlet during this crazy transition I am making. If anyone is reading this, thank you, and I hope you enjoy. Feel free to leave tips at any time :)

~Stephanie