New Year + New Budget = New Stress

I am really not a New Year's resolution kind of person. With the exception of taking a personal inventory(and spiritual one too) I really don't make a list of things to do or accomplish just cause it New Years.
This year, though, I really have felt the urging of the Lord to get our finances in order. This past year we had record expenditures due to the fact that we made a top to bottom remodel in our kitchen, replaced the floors through 75% of the house and also gutted and remodeled the kids bathroom. Add to that some hefty auto repair bills(no car payments though) and any one would have their head spinning. But unfortunately, while we were in full demo mode the economy was in total meltdown mode. Not a good mix.

So, for the New Year, I have some new goals:

• Start using http://www.pearbudget.com/ I found this over on Brand & Boys page. I hope it is all that I am dreaming it will be...I hate most online budget guides, but so far this one is right up my alley.
• Give up the Debit card....too much mindless spending on my part...I can turn a quick trip for milk and eggs into 4o bucks without blinking.
• Give up the check book too...except for bill paying that I can not do online. I am a sucker for kids coming up to me asking me to sponsor them or order something from them for a fundraiser...and then just whip out a check...mindless spending again.
• Stick to my grocery budget...not my list..just my budget. I have this thing about groceries...it is kind of freaky, but ask anyone, my pantry IS ALWAYS stocked. In my defense, I also cook a full hot meal EVERY night and during the colder months, I usually cook a hot breakfast a few times a week too. We only eat out maybe twice a month at our fave Mexican place.
• Do my VERY BEST to not purchase any "wants". I am a bargain shopper, so I do a lot of what I would call preemptive sale shopping. I am always on the lookout for my kids next size athletic shoe, end-of-season-for-next-season bargain clothes shopping, and just in general...if it is on sale, than I am tempted to buy it.
• And, lastly I really need to keep on eye on our tithing. While we do tithe regularly, I have kind of gotten into a giving rut. I am praying that the Lord will help me be mindful of others needs, and to give freely, without preconceived amounts and then trust the Lord to meet our needs.

So, if you find yourself in these same shoes, or maybe your own pair with different goals and changes on your horizon, leave a comment I will pray for your journey, as I pray for my own.