Week 4: My slow demise...

It has been rough to say the least. I have used my credit card many times since it has been paid off. I will not get into the details, but it has happened. I am getting frustrated with myself. I very obviously have little to zero self control. Well I can't say that, I did go to the Eaton's Center on the weekend and despite all the good deals that I found all I purchased (on my credit card mind you) was a new bronzer (having dropped my other one in the sink at the Delta Chelsea the day before, as I was getting ready to go to a club. I panicked and attempted to save what I could from the wet surface and eventually opted to steal from one of the other girls) and concealer. So I am flailing. Slowly but surly I am. By this time next week I hope to have my flight to London booked and at that point my credit card will be locked away forever (or until I go to London).

I need to be re inspired...

Here are the top ten tips for saving cash and stretching your pennies by the University of Utah.

Is your account balance less than your GPA? A new semester can break the bank. Here are some tips for saving cash and stretching your pennies as the school year begins!

1.) Walk or bike as much as possible to save on gas (and gas money).

2.) I suggest a budget to map out expenses and try to stick to it. Also cooking at home at least 2 meals a day seriously saves about $230 a month!

3.) Check your coupons and buy what’s on sale.

4.) Eat tuna, eggs, bread, rice, cous cous... simple stuff, and cut out the beef and pork. Better for you and costs much less!

5.) Don't get a credit card. Live on what you make. "I will pay for it later" adds up quickly.

6.) Work while you go to school!

7.) Everyone should apply for scholarships and financial aid...you never know what you might actually qualify for!

8.) If you need a new car buy used instead of new.

9.) Ride TRAX if you can. Instead of paying for a parking tag, you get a UTA card for FREE!! TRAX & bus rides are free with the card. To avoid really packed trains up to the U, ride about 15-20 minutes earlier than a class starts.

10.) If you still have to drive, go to the Institute. For attending one class 75% of the time you can get a parking pass for their parking for FREE!

Week 3: SUCCESS

I have officially succeeded in my third week. With help from my darling friend X (not wanting to be known by anything but X) I have officially paid off my entire Visa bill. Along with this I have also paid off all but $150.00 that I have owed my parents and any monthly bills: phone, gym etc.

Along side all this success was my lack of spending this week; nothing but groceries and a Valentines gift for Matthew. I was VERY tempted to purchase a whole new outfit for an event that I am attending on the 20th, aside from the fact that I already have an outfit, (and purchased new shoes for that outfit if you look back to week 1) and I resisted! Hardly, but I did with the help of Lauren and Matthew.

I have come to the conclusion that I have to get another job away from the mall. It is very hard for me to be there four times a week and not spend a dime; I have done it but it was very challenging. Overall I am ecstatic with my progress this week and can't wait to see what happens next week.

Week 2: Baby Steps

After much discussion and deliberation it has been decided that I did indeed fail week one. But really, it was only week one... right? The problem is week two. Yes, I did spend money, only $50.00, but still it is a decent amount. I have made the executive decision to make some changes to the plan. After realizing that I can sweet talk Matthew into many sticky situations I have decided to call my friend Lauren when in future sticky situations. Matthew has not lost all responsibility… just some.

I decided this week that I should dip in to my RRSP’s to totally wipe out my VISA. The appointment was made (ironically with Nicole’s father) for yesterday morning and I should have the money two days from today. I thought that this would be a solution, because instead of any possible problems with my credit score I just pay off the whole card all together. Once school is done I will be able to pay back the money quickly.

This week falls in the middle think. The way things are going, next week should be a success… I hope!