How to Plan and Enjoy Vacation on a Budget

by | Mar 2, 2020

The one thing that single moms need but rarely make time for is a vacation. But it is essential to a balance life and important for your sanity. Keep reading to learn how to plan and enjoy a vacation on a budget.

“But I can’t afford to go on vacation! “, I hear you saying. Is that really true? I’m betting you can afford a vacation but your money is not being allocated for it. You haven’t planned for it and the thought of planning, paying, then taking time off for a vacation feels overwhelming.

I’m overdue for a vacation. I feel like I want to crawl out of my skin, especially in this cold weather (it’s currently winter 2020). Not that I want to stand in the cold naked but I do need to get out of the cold weather and into some heat. So what did I do? At the end of last year I took out my calendar/planner and started entering dates I want to go on vacation.

As a matter of fact I called it a Samantha’s Sabbatical and copied my travel wish list to a Google Spreadsheet. This is how serious I am about vacationing more. I’ve been reading articles about travel that is affordable to interesting places. In the meantime, I hit NYC for the holidays.

New York Vacation on a Budget for the Holidays

To get my travel engines started I went to New York for the holidays. It was my first time there during Christmas so it was wonderful to see the lights, windows, and crowds (in small doses). I got my plane ticket from Delta.com in October when my sister and I had the conversation about it. The ticket was reasonable (under $200 round trip). I got my son’s ticket a month later which was also quite affordable. I stayed with my daughter so I didn’t have to worry about hotel costs which are ridiculously high in NYC.

We got around on the subway ($33 for 7 days of unlimited trips) and took Lyft to and from the airport. Food was the most expensive since we decided to have a special Christmas dinner and opted to eat out or have take out.

The sightseeing was free and, despite the cold, it was fun visiting the Brooklyn Bridge, Tiffany’s, Time Square, and 5th Ave. A trip in the Spring/Summer will allow more sightseeing.

In the meantime, a cruise is calling my name! Getting out of frigid NYC and heading for a beach in the Caribbean (like the ones in the infographic) is just what the doctor ordered!

Cruising for Spring Break in March

The first trip of this year I’ve scheduled is a Caribbean cruise vacation to the Bahamas on Carnival Cruises with my daughter on her Spring Break. It’s been a few years since we have been on a cruise so we are looking forward to it. We found a good deal a nothing down payment plan and paid it off in January. I can’t wait to set sail and I’m counting down the days.

All Girl’s Trip to Puerto Rico in April

I saw tickets to Puerto Rico for an insanely low price a couple weeks ago. I called up my best friend and asked her if she wanted to go. As soon as she said yes I bought the tickets. We are going to enjoy fun in the sun in April (right after Spring Break), visit Old San Juan, and maybe the rain forest. The purpose is to escape the hustle and bustle of life for a few days. I think this trip will do just that.

May in Miami Vacation on a Budget

The next trip is to hot and sunny Miami for my son’s birthday. He’s not going on the cruise so off to Miami we go. We are both needing a beach vacation. I searched for and found tickets on Southwest that were less than $250 for both of us. I snatched them up right then and there. I’ll reserve a hotel or AirBnB soon. My strategy with planning trips is to get the airline ticket a few months in advance then reserve and pay for the rest as the trip gets closer.

Planning is key

I have a couple more trips planned for the year to Cancun and maybe even to Cuba. I might even do another cruise if I find another good deal. I’m also speaking more this year on how to relax and relieve stress. Traveling is one of my ways to rest, relax and release all the stress that has piled up over the past months.

You might be wondering how do I have the time and money to plan all these vacations. Planning is key. That’s it. It’s not elaborate planning but simply a decision that I wanted to travel more this year then putting travel dates and location in my calendar. I have a monthly planner that sat down with at the beginning of the year and entered the places I wanted to visit for every other month.

I think this is why I’ve found the great flight deals. I knew what I wanted so when the opportunity came I jumped on it. This is how it is with life really. Make a plan and watch for the opportunities.

You can start with one big trip and a small trip on a 3-day weekend. You can do a road trip to a place 3-4 hours away. If you don’t plan you will always make excuses about why you can’t take a vacation. It’s really all about priorities and how you decide to live your life.

Where do you want to go? When do you want to go? Start planning now!

Here are a few resources I use to find cheap flights:

Scott’s Cheap Flights – I get daily emails from Scott with cheap flights he’s found. I have a Premium subscription that gets me even more deals that include free bags and other international flights that are super cheap. Use my link to get a 1 month free trial and 10% off the premium subscription.

FareDrop – I get daily emails and text messages about flight deals happening in the moment. I love seeing what city comes up in the daily emails. If you sign up with my link you get two months free there is an annual fee which is totally worth it for cheap flights.

This is a sponsored post and it also contains affiliate links to help support this blog.

 

 

3 Vital Money Lessons to Teach Your Kids

3 Vital Money Lessons to Teach Your Kids

by | Jan 30, 2020

Single mothers have to learn a variety of important lessons in order to achieve financial freedom, and you can make life easier on your children by helping them develop good habits from a young age. Kids who are introduced to personal finance early generally find it easier to manage their own money later in life.

This article will cover some of the most critical financial lessons you can teach your child. Make an effort to have regular conversations about money so that they understand the impact a healthy financial mindset will have on their life.

Credit Card Debt Is Bad

Consumer debt has been essentially normalized in the United States, and many people don’t see a problem with credit cards, student loans, or other forms of credit. While going into debt is sometimes the best choice, it’s important for people of all ages to understand the risks involved.

Credit cards, for example, typically come with interest rates of up to or even over 20 percent. Paying back a large credit card debt can be extremely difficult since the balance will continue to accumulate interest over time. It’s generally much better to avoid debt in the first place than to try to pay it back later.

Tip: Start an Emergency Fund

We often feel like debts are unavoidable in unpredictable circumstances, but you can prepare for these situations by contributing to an emergency fund. Your child should understand the importance of consistently saving money and having some cash to fall back on in a worst-case scenario.

Without an emergency fund, people can be forced into debt to pay for unexpected costs. While you can help your child by starting a savings account for them, it’s much more important for them to develop the habit of saving on their own and taking a more proactive approach to personal finance.

Consider Early Retirement

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your child’s retirement, but it’s never too early to start considering their financial future. Putting off saving for retirement is one of the most common mistakes in personal finance, and it’s difficult to make up for lost time if you don’t start making contributions from a young age.

In contrast, putting extra money away for retirement is a great habit that will help your child reach his or her long-term financial goals. Twenty, for example, might seem too early to begin saving for retirement, but even just a few hundred dollars each year will make a significant difference over time.

Tip: Set up a Roth IRA

Most people assume that 18 is the youngest age at which people can contribute to an Individual Retirement Account, or IRA, but there’s actually no minimum age associated with these accounts. People of all ages can make and contribute to an IRA as long as they have at least some earned income.

While standard IRAs allow you to make contributions with pre-tax income, the money you put in a Roth IRA is not tax-deductible. On the other hand, contributions grow tax-free and aren’t subject to taxation when withdrawn during retirement.

Roth IRAs come with relatively low contribution limits—$6,000 in 2019 and 2020, for example—so you miss out on the tax advantages whenever you fail to make the maximum contribution. In contrast to some other retirement accounts, Roth IRA funds can be withdrawn at any time with no penalty.

In addition to the tax benefits associated with Roth IRAs, the money you contribute will typically grow much more quickly than in a conventional or high-yield savings account. Investment accounts carry more risk than accounts with fixed rates, but short-term fluctuations are generally outweighed by growth over time—especially when investing for a long-term goal like retirement.

The Importance of Budgeting

Many people avoid thinking about their finances because they’re worried about what they’ll find, and financial anxiety is one of the biggest obstacles toward developing a better money mindset. Simply reviewing your statements and understanding where your money is going is arguably the most important step in improving your approach to personal finance.

Without a clear budget, it’s easy to lose track of how you spend your money and end up consistently falling short of your personal and financial goals. You won’t even know what kinds of spending to cut back on if you’re interested in saving more money.

Tip: Start Budgeting Early

Rather than shifting to a budget later on, your children should understand the importance of a budget from a younger age. That way, they won’t have to adjust their financial habits to start working toward long-term financial goals like college and retirement.

Getting started with budgeting can be complicated, but there are more resources than ever before to help novices learn more about creating a budget. While there’s nothing wrong with budgeting in a notebook, your child may adjust more quickly using a website or mobile app.

Most kids aren’t as excited to save as they are to spend, but you should teach good habits by putting some of their allowance away. It’s important for children to see saving as a financial priority rather than something to do with any money that’s left over—people who think of saving as optional often have more trouble sticking to their targets.

Everyone has their own experience with personal finance, but you can get your children off to a good start by teaching them about money from a young age. These are just a few of the most important topics to cover as your child begins to learn more about personal finance.

11 Charities That Give Free Christmas Gifts: A Guide for Cash-Strapped Single Moms

11 Charities That Give Free Christmas Gifts: A Guide for Cash-Strapped Single Moms

by | Dec 11, 2019

Every year there are single moms who are stressing about how they will buy Christmas gifts for their kids. It feels like a burden but did you know there are charities that give free Christmas gifts to kids every year?

I’ve faced this dread myself in years past. I know what it’s like to wonder where I’ll get the money to buy Christmas gifts for my kids. Several times I’ve made the decision to only purchase one gift or no more than three (in the spirit of Christ’s birth). As much as I wanted to give my precious little ones everything they wanted I just couldn’t. I didn’t have the money because I needed to pay the rent or car note. I needed to make sure there was food in the house for the days after Christmas.

There are so many moms who face the same struggle out there who need a helping hand this year. So I’ve done some research and came up with a pretty long list of resources. These are organizations that help needy families during the Christmas holidays. They give toys and sometimes clothes to families that need a helping hand during this time of year.

Most of the organizations have local chapters so you will have to contact the one nearest you for more information. Please don’t be shy about calling. They are there to help and often are looking for people to help. The more localized the better for you. Also remember to get a head start on applying for help. Some deadlines have already passed but try anyway. Your persistence will pay off.

Here’s a list of 11 charities, businesses, and organizations that give free Christmas gifts each year.

1. Toys for Tots

This organization has many local chapters. Their deadline in some places was in October but they are still taking applications. If they have toys left you will be contacted.

2. Angel Tree

This program is for kids who have parents in prison. There are also chapters run by the Salvation Army. Search Angel Tree and the name of your city to see if they have a program in your area.

3. Salvation Army

Contact your local chapter for information about their program. They don’t collect money in those little red pails for nothing. You just may be one of the families they help this year.

4. Shiners/Lions/Masons

These organizations are famous for the help they give to children. Call your local office and find out when and where they are taking applications.

5. St. Vincent de Paul/Catholic Charities

These Catholic organizations help people year around. They have offices in many locations so call and find out where you can go for help.

6. VFW/American Legion

Your local organization may have a Christmas toy donation program. Be sure to call and find out.

7. County Help Lines

Your county help line may have information about other local organizations that are helping the needy this Christmas. To find your state or county helpline, Google “[your state] + helpline”. It may show up as a crisis hotline but they may also have information that you can use.

8. Local Churches

There are likely churches in your area that are collecting toys to give to needy families. Open the phone book and call the churches near you and ask if they have a program. Find out how to get on the list.

9. Local Businesses

I worked for a large corporation that collected toys every year for needy families. They may work in cooperation with other charitable organizations but many may offer direct help. Look in the newspaper for announcements and call a few to learn about which companies are helping the needy. Also ask your friends if they their companies have programs.

10. Libraries/Banks

The local library and banks often have Angel or Giving Trees. Ask how you can get your kids’ names on the tree to receive Christmas gifts this year.

11. United Way

This organization is the umbrella unit of hundreds of charitable organizations. Call your local office and find out what programs they have to help kids for Christmas. I’m sure they can point you in the right direction.

There are likely many more resources out there you just have to investigate the options. Please do not be put off by the word “needy”. It is not an indication of you as a person but a temporary status. We are living in tough economic times right now so everyone is struggling. Fortunately you now have a few resources now to help give your kids a great Christmas.

8 DIY Crafts That Are Low Cost and Fun

8 DIY Crafts That Are Low Cost and Fun

by | Dec 10, 2019

Children today have more options than ever when it comes to entertainment. With a swipe of their finger, they can access videos, coloring books and online games. While this isn’t necessarily a negative thing, too much screen time can be addicting. 

Unfortunately, parents often feel like they have few alternatives to technology. Family trips and similar experiences can be costly, and it’s often easier to just let a child distract themselves. Fortunately, there’s a long list of low-cost crafts you can make at home. 

With that in mind, check out these eight DIY projects that are inexpensive and a joy to share. You may already have the supplies you need, which makes the process even easier. Try these crafts out with your kids to see just how much fun you can have away from the screen.   

 

1. Thumbprint Family Tree

If you have a couple of kids, sit everyone down at the kitchen table and spread out a few sheets of paper. Have everyone use a marker or a crayon to trace a large tree on their piece of paper. Make plenty of branches and a long trunk, but don’t draw leaves.

After they’re done making the trees, give everyone a different color paint to stick their thumbs in. Use their thumbprints as the leaves, decorating each other’s trees. 

They can write their names out around the trees and decorate them however they want. You’ll end up with colorful trees and an adorable craft you can hang in frames around your home. 

 

2. DIY Fairy Garden

Do your kids love playing with Legos or imagining elves hiding around the home during Christmas? If they love all things tiny, create a fairy garden with them or have them make their own. 

You can get supplies at the store, but all you need is an empty pot and supplies you might find in your yard. Decorate the fairy garden with stones and flowers, or use old dollhouse furniture to make it even more comfortable.

 

3. Corrugated Paper Bead Necklaces

An old favorite craft is one where kids make their own jewelry. There are entire jewelry sets sold in craft stores that contain shiny beads and different kinds of string, but those are often expensive. 

Instead of going over budget, make corrugated paper bead necklaces with corrugated paper and whatever string you have around your home. It only takes a few minutes and your kids will love showing off their new accessories afterward.

 

4. Homemade Neon Slime

Hands-on activities for kids are sometimes their favorite. Think of how many times your kids have wanted Playdough or modeling clay to make different shapes. 

Skip restocking the name brand craft supplies and mix up neon slime at home. Your kids will love all the different colors and how it feels in their hands.

 

5. Wooden Crayon Holder

Every parent knows the struggle of keeping crayons organized and in one container. Crayon boxes don’t always last as long as they should, which leads to crayons marking up fabric boxes or the carpet they end up on. 

Keep crayons in one location that looks cute too after you make a wooden crayon holder and personalize it with your kids’ names. Be sure to read woodworking safety tips so you’re prepared to use the right tools, like wearing safety goggles when cutting wood.

 

6. Mini Lid Banjos 

Kids who love to make some noise will adore this craft. As long as you have a bit of tape, some popsicle sticks, tiny rubber bands and a few lids around your house, you can create mini lid banjos in just a few short minutes. 

Use lids from used spaghetti sauce containers as the base of the banjo and have fun taping everything together.

 

7. Ocean in a Jar

If your family is itching to get to the beach but can’t quite get there this year, capture the ocean in a jar at home with a little water, vegetable oil and food coloring. 

Mixing everything together creates a wavy bubble effect that mimics the ocean perfectly. Throw in a tiny plastic toy like a fish or a mermaid figurine so your kids can imagine them living under the sea.

 

8. Geometric Bubble Shapes

A little dish soap and some straws go a long way. Help your kids fashion straws into shapes like triangles and squares before mixing up some dish soap and water in a bowl. 

They’ll be amazed at the 3D bubbles and enjoy waving their wands around. 

 

Try Them All Out

 

Even if you think a craft might not look interesting to your kids, it could end up being the highlight of their week. These low-cost crafts are easy to try out at home without requiring you to spend a ton of money at a craft store. 

Check them out the next time your kids look bored and need something fun to do!

 

Author Bio: 

Dylan Bartlett, aka, “The Regular Guide,” writes about DIY crafts and more on his blog. Check out Just a Regular Guide to read about similar topics, or follow Dylan on Twitter @theregularguide for frequent updates! 

 

How to Create a Single Mom Low Income Budget

How to Create a Single Mom Low Income Budget

by | Dec 8, 2019

I was looking for information about how single moms can manage on a low income budget. It’s easy to find information for two parent households but rarely for one parent households.

I found something that might be helpful for single moms (with one child) who make less than $25k a year. The following image shows the percentage that could be spent for three income amounts. They are broken up over about 10-15 categories.

If you make more or less you could still take the percentages and apply it to your situation. Amounts shown could increase because of Earned Income Credit, government assistance, child support, or food stamps.

From Crown Financial Ministries

How to Budget on a Low Income

If you are struggling on a low income or think you can’t possibly live on a low income budget, take a look at this video series. I describe exactly how I was able to survive on $12,000 a year when my kids were young. It is totally possible but I encourage you to make a decision and plan to increase your income. It is totally possible to make as much money as you want to make. Living on a low income is a temporary situation if you want it to be.

Budget Worksheet for Single Moms

Be sure to grab my Budget Sanity Worksheet so you can create your own budget. It’s not your typical worksheet that you print out and fill in the blanks. With the Budget Sanity Worksheet you simply enter your paycheck amount in the first field and then your budget is created for you! Here is a video that shows you have it’s done:

Stretch Your Budget with More Income

I believe it is easier to add to your budget than subtract from it. You can only cut things out so much. Depriving yourself only leads to feeling defeated which can lead to depression. Being a single mom on a low income is hard enough without the added pressure of cutting out things you probably need. Choosing between food and diapers or shoes for your kid is a decision no one should have to make.

The best thing to do is add to your income. It might feel challenging at first but with determination and creativity you can add an extra $100 or more to your monthly budget. To add to your income start off babysitting, baking and selling cookies, creating wonderful smelling lotions or soaps, or being a virtual assistant. Sell to family, friends, and co-workers at first then learn marketing so you can attract new customers. Don’t forget about using Facebook Marketplace and other online sources to make sells too.

Making extra money will help relieve any pressure you are feeling. It will also make you feel happier and more in control of your life. Now that you know how to budget on a lower income you will have no problems budgeting your higher income.

If you want to learn how to attract larger amounts of money in shorter periods of time you should check out my book The Magic Money Manifestation Formula. I used money manifestation techniques to attract $10,000 in less than a week. I believe you can to if you follow my steps.