Money and Maternity Leave

As we approach the end of my paid leave of absence from work, I have been thinking through practical ways we can cut costs in our budget. Back in 2009 when the recession was in full swing work for Matt came to an almost standstill so we had to learn to live on my salary alone. It made us really evaluate every penny that left our checking account.

I am going to start employing some of those same methods we used then during these next few months since my income will be zero. (Zero! Enter slight panic attack!)

Here is what we plan to do:

1) Cut our grocery bill by 15% - We don't spend a ton on groceries and household items, but this will help us shave off a little of the overall monthly budget and will force us to only buy the necessities. I will also cut out items that we can do without that tend to cost a lot - red meat, bacon, organic veggies, granola bars and soda (unless it is on sale). I've been using frozen vegetables in some of my meals and they work just as well!

2) Meal Plan - I used to do this all the time, but pregnancy and baby halted this process. My friend Lauren bought me this really cool meal planner for my birthday - it attaches to your fridge and it has a week by week guide so you can write out your dinners, as well as options for breakfast, lunch and snacks. I plan to cook 5 times each week, using leftovers for Sunday nights or lunches, and also do a few meatless meals each week to save cash. I've been browsing 5 dollar dinners as well for ideas!

3) Buy generic/big box store brand where possible - if we need a basic household item like toilet paper, wipes, toothbrushes etc, I will buy generic. Generics are typically based/formulated just like a name brand and are just as good. I'll also buy generic for items like canned goods, condiments, milk etc. We have a Costco membership and buying their brand (Kirkland) is always a money-saver.

4) Cut our "fun" money by 50% - This budget includes money for eating out, movies, Starbucks (sob) and any little extras. Matt and I really enjoy movies so this will be a sacrifice, but there is always Red Box and Netflix, and we won't have to pay a babysitter which also saves us some money! I will also be making coffee at home (which I do anyways since I have the kiddo with me), but will be cutting back entirely on that extra latte during my Target runs or coffee dates with friends.

5) Use Cloth Diapers - We have been using disposables for the first few months because it's a little easier for a new parent and Brighton is super long and skinny - my cloth diapers didn't fit her until she was about 3 months old. Not buying disposables will be a huge cost savings for our family; cloth is more work with the washing/drying process, but I am excited to finally use something a bit more environmentally friendly.

6) Lowlights instead of Highlights - Since I am not a natural blonde, I normally get my hair highlighted every 8-10 weeks which is an added cost I can do without this winter. I had my hairdresser put a lot more lowlights in my hair to tone down the blonde so I can stretch my hair appointment to about 12-14 weeks. Thank goodness ombre is still in style cause that is what I will be rocking this winter!

I'm thinking through a few other ways to pinch pennies, but these 6 items will be a huge help. I'm excited to be at home with my sweet baby girl and while this plan will be a sacrifice, she is more than worth it!