This post was underwritten by BMO Harris Bank, which offers a matching $25 on a new savings account opened for your child through their Helpful Steps for Parents program. Learn more at bmoharris.com/parents.
Since we found out that we were pregnant the hubs and I have tried our hardest not to go completely overboard buying "things" for Trey. Sure, we wanted to make sure that he had a comfortable nursery and plenty of necessities (being diapers, not a million different outfits - which I am sure is MUCH easier with a boy... I digress) as well as a safe car seat and a stroller that could last us until we were done having babies.
Source: amazon.com via Lauren on Pinterest
This was a favorite of ours!
From the get-go we researched and compared prices, models, brands and tried to make simple changes such as spicing up an inexpensive dresser with cute hardware. We saved gift cards, bonuses, and coupons to make the purchasing a little but easier.
Since Trey was born 15 months ago we have gotten even more frugal where we can. I love a fancy bag or a nice pair of shoes as much as the next person but we have made sure that these things are "special" purchases and not our everyday lifestyle.
Most of Trey's morning naps are spent with me scouring couponing blogs, clipping coupons from multiple newspapers, and making lists. I can't tell you how much I have saved from this alone. I often text pictures to the husband with captions like "saved $60!" or "got all of this for $40!". And no, I am in no way, shape or form talking about that tv show (we all know what I am referring too). I'm talking about good, old fashioned stretching our budget! Making sure that we can still have organic products at the lowest possible price.
I know that I don't work outside the home, but I do my best to work inside our home. Everytime we are able to save a few dollars I know that is something we can put towards Trey's college fund, our next home, retirement or even just a family vacation. I know that memories are also priceless and I want to make sure that we will be able to afford fun trips as a family.
For holidays we ask relatives for savings bonds for Trey. Let's be real. This kid doesn't NEED more toys. He has plenty and as far as books and clothes, I like to buy him books myself (so does J.D.!) and we purchase clothes and shoes as needed or when I find a good sale.
He received his first piggy bank for his first birthday and J.D. and I have been in the habit of sticking a few dollars in it here and there, when we can. I want to teach Trey the importance of saving, the value of a dollar (and a dime!!) as well as good work ethic and how to earn money himself for things that he wants or things that one day he will need.
I do think he's picking up on it, he likes to run around the house with my coupon file. I ask him if he's going to use those coupons to save money?
Hey, at 15 months? I'll take it!
I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. To learn more about BMO Harris Bank, visit their website http://bmoharris.com/parents.
3 comments:
Great post! My husband and I feel the same way- and when you said you saved gift cards, bonuses,etc I felt as though you read my mind! That's what we do here as well!
I used to be awful about saving, but I'm finally been good about it the last few years. I agree we need to teach our children as early as we possible can, the value of a dollar. It is so important to learn that. My mom is awful at saving money so I didn't learn until I met Eric, and it was hard to start. Great post though!
I've gotten behind on my couponing but it's definitely time to start back up! Great idea on the savings bonds. We have a savings account for E but need to do a little more. Just haven't decided what yet.
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