I'm rarin' to go for 2011. My new year actually started yesterday, when I got my year-end pay stub. I paid all of the bills and am starting 2011 completely fresh. Moving to a mostly cash / envelope system. Even though I pay off the cc bills each month, I'm always astounded at how high the balance is, so I figure using cash will make me more aware of what I'm spending.

I had two great accomplishments today. I went to the grocery store for this week's food. My goal was to be under $100, and I spent $92.35. It'll be a stretch to keep it at $100 going forward, because I'm benefitting from a lot of leftovers and stuff in the freezer, but I'll do my best.

My second great accomplishment was going through my old books and dvds. I am getting rid of 5 books through paperback swap .com (and two more on the way), I sold a dvd on 1/2 .com for $4.50, and sold 5 dvds through second spin .com for $14.50. So I'll mail all of those out Monday, will count $19 toward my 2011 $20 challenge, and will pay the $19 to my home equity line.

So I'm off to a good start. Quiet night at home tonight watching the ball drop with hubby and the kids. Then back at it tomorrow.

Happy New Year everyone!

Unfortunately, I totally let the finances go. No big issues, I just didn't pay attention to any of it! I need to get back on the wagon now. I'm frugal by nature, and am very uncomfortable not knowing exactly where my money goes.

So...I drafted up a budget for 2011, that I have every intention of sticking to. I plan to get back to blogging more regularly to help keep me accountable.

I'm in pretty good shape debt-wise. Just my mortgage and home equity loan. The goal is to put $1000/month plus any extra, unexpected income toward the HELOC. (Balance is $45k). If I can do that and stick to my budget, I'll be set.

Despite my lack of posts, I've been lurking on the site, as always, and am so proud of my "frugal friends". You guys are doing great and inspire me every day. Here's to a great 2011!