Budget

I just created my first real budget ever.

I know, I know-you'd think by now I would have learned how to budget. Well, I just found this ridiculous website that helps me create a budget by allotting certain amounts of money to each category; I then tailor that budget to fit my needs (because I really don't need $40/month for fast food). But get this-it tells me how much I've spent in each category and how much I have left for the month! It even uploads my checking and savings accounts. This way, I can easily keep track of what I spend where. I know I'll be surprised by how much I spend at restaurants and things like that, but if I see my money categorized like, I'll be much more likely to keep my spending on restaurants, groceries, and movies to a minimum.

Now, what this means for my social life is that it will definitely plummet due to a lack of funds. But I am determined to keep my spirits high. Here are some crazy alternatives to the typical night out so I can keep my social status and moolah.

1. Borrow a movie from a neighbor. My complex is filled with 48 girls which means endless supplies of chick flicks. What more could a girl ask for?
2. Make your own treats. Who needs to pay for a $3 cupcake when you can buy two cake mixes and frosting for that price?
3. Go to the MOA, HFAC, or Provo Library for a cultured event. All are open and free to the public. Why not?
4. Star gazing. Bundle up with sweaters and socks you already have-no need to look great, you'll be in the dark.
5. Heart attack someone. Brooke and I just recently heart attacked our boss. It was short, simple, and so free.
6. Do a puzzle. If you don't have one, buy one at DI. They're bound to be even better when they're donated.
7. Make a movie or music video. Complete the experience with costumes, make up, music, and a great editing job.
8. Work out. BYU allows its students to use the SFH and RB workout rooms with just a swipe of the ID card. Not only will working out save you money, you're bound to be smokin' hot if you keep it up.
9. Read a book. Libraries are full of hidden treasures...and books too. Take out your own library card (for free, might I add) and read away.
10. Volunteer somewhere. Local places are always looking for people to sort food or clothes, spend time with older folks, hang out with children and teens, or simply wash dishes. Try the Utah County Food Bank, Jamestown Assisted Living, or Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Utah to start.
11. Create a meal using only the ingredients you have in your kitchen-that's all. No bending or breaking the rules. Allrecipes.com has a great tool that allows you to input ingredients you'd like to use and then produces a list of recipes using those ingredients. Make sure to do the dishes after.
12. Do laundry. It's relaxing, smells great, and you'll have a full closet when you're done.
13. International Cinema. I realize I already gave a movie idea, but who doesn't love a good foreign film?
14. Call an old friend. Sure, it may use up minutes, but most phone plans have either unlimited calling or free nights and weekends. Double check your plan before assuming you can talk for hours without any costs.
15. Make play-doh. There are plenty of recipes online, some easier than others, but they're all great. Proceed to make whatever play-doh creation you'd like.
16. Window shopping. Sure, sometimes it's a drag looking at all of those cute tops you can't afford, but window shopping might just give you the motivation to keep saving money so you can actually afford one of those tops.
17. Donate old clothes and toys to a local charity. You'll feel better by the extra space and less guilty for never wearing that sweater your grandmother gave you when you were 15.
18. Clean. It's definitely a stress buster, plus you'll feel accomplished. And you won't be embarrassed to have guests come past the entry.
19. Write letters. These are even better than phone calls-they're tangible. The only cost is the stamp, but the joy the recipient will feel is more than 44 cents worth.
20. Go on a hike or nature walk. It's incredible how much more sense life makes when you're in nature. Plus, you'll be able to feel the presence of God even stronger. Who doesn't want that?
20. Plan your dream vacation. Sure, you definitely don't have the money for this one either, but (once again) it'll give you the motivation to start saving and something to look forward to. And you might just get a good tan in the end.