Crunching Pennies

For the first time in quite a while, we are living paycheck to paycheck. I feel like I have lost all sense of security. And there are so many expenses this time of year, mainly involving my children. How do you explain to a five year old that you cannot do something because mommy does not have the money? She saved her birthday money for a season pass to Carowinds. Just this weekend, she told my mother in law that she still had her money, but "Mommy and Daddy don't have theirs yet." Heartbreaking. She has a dance recital coming up and her tap shoes no longer fit. Some people wonder why we didn't just quit dance. Well there were a lot of things I did not get to do growing up that I really wanted to. My dad told me, no matter what, let her dance. And he's right. Why should she have to quit? It's not her fault. I could have pulled her out of preschool, since I work at home, but I wanted her to be able to graduate with her classmates (that she has been with since 18 months).

So I am starting to take my stress therapy crafts and will begin to sell them. I have started making hair bows and pillow case dresses. Pretty soon I will start on crocheted scarfs for the fall too. I plan to take these to the local trade lot/flea market, to see what I can do. I love to do crafts, of any and all kinds. I am hoping to make enough income to cover the extra activities, and then I could breathe easier. Some things might not be neccessary, like dance or an amusement park, but if you can make it happen-do it. Live life to the fullest.

Today I am thankful for a dear friend that is helping take my daughter to and from school. I am thankful my son has his two year checkup this week, so we can find out if we need an allergy specialist. I am thankful that my husband is working with some really great people.

G'day all!