Living on a budget

In these economic times, a budget is more necessary now than ever. As a couple, we make a reasonable combined household income, but we strictly adhere to a monthly budget. This means itemizing everything we spend (down to the penny) on a spread sheet. Even though it is a bit of work, you would be surprised at how beneficial it can be. We have set goals, that we diligently budget for each month. This usually means we are the couple that stays home every weekend and that hasn't gone to an actual movie - in who knows how long - but we are happy and when we can experience our goals (which we will elaborate on, at a later date) we realize it was worth the scrimping, saving and discipline.