Day 2 of the challenge is day 3 of my current no spend streak.  I made great choices today (taking the train instead of driving into the city and resisting the urge to buy lunch even though I was starving) to help keep these NSDs alive.  I know I will have to spend some $$ on gas tomorrow seeing as how my tank is pretty much empty, but I’m hopeful that will be it in terms of spending.

I’m already gearing up for the weekend as that seems to be my most challenging time of the week.  Thankfully, a friend is hosting a Super Bowl party, so I plan to bring a dish made from what’s in the pantry and a six-pack to contribute (this will cost a small sum, but pales in comparison to what I would potentially spend if it were a night out). Friday and Saturday are potentially covered seeing as how I have dates on both nights. 

And finally, after realizing my mistake of not setting goals in January and witnessing the subsequent spending influx, I’m making sure there’s documented proof of what will hopefully be in store for February….

Financial Goals: 

1. $650 into retirement accounts
2. $200 extra to mortgage
3. Limit variable spending to $250
4. Pay for trip 100% from monthly budget
5. $200 into savings

Household Goals:

1. Complete a full-house deep clean
2. Organize basement storage unit
3. Replace door & lock for said storage unit

Personal Goals:

1. Get back on fitness wagon (a broken arm has derailed me for the past 3 weeks)
2. Maintain contact with friends & family
3. Manage stress without overspending–work to stay balanced!

While the savings amount isn’t nearly what it should be, it does reflect the fact that I will be able to take a 10-day, out of country trip using only $$ from this month’s budget.  If it weren’t for this month’s No Spend Challenge, I don’t think I would be putting any $$ into savings!

Another added bonus is this trip was originally budgeted to be paid for out of February AND March’s budget, but I should now be able to pay out of only Feb, which means even more $$ saved in March!!