Keep on truckin'...

[ScrimpAndSave]

So, I'm still on my savings plan and doing well. I am throwing $1000 every two weeks into my ING account to go toward the down payment on my future home. I currently have about $12,500 saved up...and about $6,500 is for my wedding.

By January 1st 2009, I will have $11,135 (in just the house account - not counting any wedding gift $)

By January 1st 2010, I will have $37,135

By January 1st 2011, I will have $78,636

That is the magic time (that I am so impatiently waiting for) that I should buy a home.

I've been taking out $100 a pay and trying to live on that (for groceries and such). It has really made me think about every single dollar that I spend - rather than using a debit card nonstop.

I do make an extra $4,000 each summer directing a pre-k program as well. I also advise student council and the safety patrol at my school which is another $1000 combined. My principal asked me to teach an after school program two days a week after school for $33/hr (two hours a week). So whenever I can throw some extra cash in the ING - I am going to do it. I am hoping through this after school teaching program, I can throw $1,100 every two weeks in to the account instead of just $1,000.

I'm also changing the way I shop for groceries...I am considering taking on a vegan diet for ethical reasons. I frequent a very low cost farmer's market for my meals and it is only about $70 a month in total for food!

I've been careful with gas too...no extra trips anywhere.

[gamecock43]

I'm warning you- wedding expenses double. I was determined to be frugal and yet the wedding I thought I could pull off for 14k cost 25k. Getting married in 3 weeks so there better not be any more expenses!

[ScrimpAndSave]

Well, my dad is fortunately springing $30k for the wedding. I am taking care of:

Photography: $2600
DJ: $1500
Ceremony/Cocktail Music: $850
Videographer: $1500
Officiant: $ 300
Dress: $1000
Flowers: $ 800
Invitations: $ 500
Attendant Gifts: $1000
Rings: $700
Room: $300

And all of those prices are set in stone by the vendor.

[ScrimpAndSave]

Oops double post...

[gamecock43]

Does your dress include alterations? My alterations were $350. Also think about ahem- undergarments- my corset was over $50 ...also think about jewelry and the rehearsal dinner outfit...and shoes! Just trying to point out theres alot of hidden fees that end up doubling the price of things. My dress was $1300 (including tax) but all the extras was almost another $1000. ...it really adds up without even realizing it.

[ScrimpAndSave]

Yep, that includes alterations and undergarments. I already have all accessories and everything or the rehearsal dinner.

[gamecock43]

Good, glad you got it under control then!