Introduction

My name is Suzy, and in just over 393 days I'm going to be turning 30.  I've decided that 2012 will be my year for change.  So far I've created a new blog, signed up for the weight loss program at my local gym, and am planning on being debt free by December.  The first step to all these changes is being honest with myself.

I'm not rich, I don't come from a wealthy family, and generally have poor money management skills.  I've been married for 10 years to my wonderful husband Dale, have a 7 year old daughter named Samantha, two outside cats and a deranged bird.

Currently our savings includes .07 in our savings account, and just over $4000 in our 401k plan.  We are currently about $7000 in debt (including the outstanding balance on my car) and in our checking account we have just enough money to pay rent and feed ourselves for the next two weeks. I get paid twice a month, my husband gets paid every two weeks.  We don't have any stocks (besides what's in our 401k), no savings (aside from that seven cents), and are barely keeping our heads above water.

I also have a serious shopping addiction.  Clothes, shoes, household items - if it's on sale, it's going home with me.  This year, that's all going to change.  I would much rather have a full bank account than a full closet, and a stocked pantry instead of shelves full of shoes.  I follow a lot of money saving blogs, however I feel like a lot of it doesn't apply to me.  I don't homeschool my daughter, I don't make my own bread, and I'm not religious by any means.  I decided that I would start a blog that applies to people like me and my family - wanting to get ahead, but overcoming the desire to keep up with the Jonses.

Every day between now and January 30, 2013 I will be blogging my ideas and experiences when it comes to making money.  From clipping coupons to picking up pennies off the ground, every little bit helps. My readers will also play a large part in this year's outcome - from weight loss to money making, I want to hear your ideas!