by Neissa Springmann

I’ll be the first to admit that I do not have a great relationship with numbers, which also means that sticking to a budget is extremely difficult for me. It wasn’t too long ago when I’d do anything to avoid having “the money talk” and because it was that uncomfortable for me, I expected Russell to tend to our financial matters. At some point I realized that not only was my avoidance unfair to Russell, but it was irresponsible and dangerous for our family. Therefore and because our busy schedules made it increasingly more challenging to review our financials and set goals, our solution was to hire a bookkeeper, which has single handedly been one of our greatest investments. Not only did she help us adopt a cash budget, but she keeps an eye on our spending habits, sends us monthly reports, saves us significant money and most importantly, she has prevented us from fighting over money, which is arguably the #1 reason for divorce.
If you are like me and money is not “your thing”, below are helpful tips and suggestions that will send you on your way to having a healthy relationship with money.

Here’s to a healthy relationship with your finances!   ~Neissa

Ten Ways to Save Over $4500 Each Year!

Did You Know…

…that if you are eager to save money but don’t know how or where to cut back, we have creative money saving solutions for you! (Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you become a professional couponer).

How can I apply this to my life?

Once you’ve set your mind to saving money it can actually be fun and even easy. Below are creative money saving tips that will send you on your way to a having a fat piggy bank!

• Save $100! The average American spends $100 a year on bottled water. Instead of buying bottled water, purchase a water bottle and create delicious flavored water by adding infusing slices of lemon, lime, orange, cucumber or mint. Try our favorite Tastier Way To Drink Adequate Water recipe! 
• Save $120 and the Earth! The average American spends $12 a month on paper towels. Instead of buying paper towels, buy reusable micrcofiber towels and hand towels.
• Save $450! The average American spends $450 on high water heater temperatures. Instead, lower your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees to restrict heat loss. The exception: dishwashers. Check if yours has a “booster heater” for sanitizing 140-degree rinsing.
• Save $50! The average American spends $50 a year on wrapping paper. Instead, use newspaper or colorful fabric from clothing or scarves that you are no longer wearing.
• Save $145! The average American spends an additional $145 a year on inefficient shower heads. To reduce hot-water consumption (and energy needs), replace older models with ones that spray no more than 2.5 gallons per minute.
• Save $500! The average American spends $45 a month on cleaning supplies. Instead, one-to-one solution of vinegar and water makes an effective, economical multipurpose cleaner. The nontoxic mixture disinfects floors and bathrooms and cleans glass without leaving streaks (and the disinfectant smell disappears as soon as it dries).
• Save $600! The average American saves only $392 per year. Instead, create a special savings account and set up an auto transfer of $50 each month.

Try Molly’s favorite Quesadillas Loaded With Veggies recipe for dinner!

• Save $2500! The average American spends $208 a month eating out. Instead, create a weekly meal plan and enjoy home cooked meals and special family time. Need some new recipe ideas? Try Molly’s Quesadillas Loaded With Veggies recipe! (pictured above)
• Or Amy’s Chilled Gazpacho, Spinach Salad and Crusty Olive Bread recipe!  (pictured left)

Or try Amy’s favorite Chilled Gazpacho, Olive Bread and Spinach Salad dinner!

• Save $100! The average American spends $100 a year on a Valentine’s Day meal. Instead, create a romantic home dinner or celebrate Valentine’s before or after the 14th.
• Save $180! The average American spends $15 on ATM fees. Instead, use your debit card or pulse only from your bank or from a bank with zero fees.