Spring Cleanup

Hey guys

I have had so many things I've wanted to blog about the past few weeks but my life is so hectic right now I just can't seem to find the few minutes to sit down write!



Work has been picking up which is AWESOME! I recently had the chance to sit on a review panel for our Young & Free program's 2011 Spokester Search. I had to review each applicants and do some background research on them before grouping with the rest of the panel to select our top three applicants that  It was such a fun experience. For anyone in the 17-25 year old demographic, head over to www.youngfreealberta.com and check out the applicants. Vote for who you'd like to see be your voice for the next year with good advice and money saving tips. I know I've personally used some of the tips and ideas posted to their blog in regards to my own personal finances.

I started a budget at the beginning of this year and it's been super helpful. I'm saving way more than I did before and have even managed a few decent shopping trips! Now that summer is coming and I have alot of exciting things coming up I need to sit down and re-work my budget. I have the honors of being the maid of honor for my best friends wedding in Mexico this July but that means paying for the trip, the bridesmaid dress, shoes, accessories, bridal shower gifts, stagette party, wedding gift, etc which is alot of extra cost. On top of that I'm going to Ireland with Mr. Fitness in June. I'm thankful I had enough to cover my costs in my travel savings account but I have to start all over for the planned trip to Vegas this fall for my birthday. On top of that gas prices are outrageous and I've already had to reduce my weekly spending allowance. I've also reached the end of my contract at my current gym so I will have to rework my new gym cost into the picture as well.

With all the financial changes it's definitely time to sit down and change the budget to maximize my savings. This is a great time for everyone to revisit their budgets, especially with the end of the school year for college or university students.

A coworker and friend of mine wrote a really great article on finding your financial balance after graduation that I thought I would share: http://www.financialpost.com/personal-finance/personal-finance/Young+Money+Striking+balance+after+graduation/4640168/story.html

I can't rave enough about how great creating a budget has been for both my spending and savings. I encourage everyone to take some time to sit down and look at ways they can improve both areas. There are lots of great tools and resources available to help young people, like the Young & Free site. Go check it out and don't forget to vote for your favorite spokester!