Stop Tolerating the Intolerable

As most of you know, working in the public doesn't come without challenge. There are many parts of my job I enjoy, there are others that I just don't like at all. A big part of my responsibilities include collections. While it is true that I knew what I was getting into when I took on the job, that doesn't mean it comes without thorns. This week in particular I have dealt with two repossession situations and neither have been easy, but both have made me think. I find myself reflecting on the lies that are told and the harsh words that are said and I wonder why they flow so easily from some mouths. In the past. I have always just said, “I am glad my mama taught me better” or more simply “how disrespectful”, but today a new reality hit me.

I work in a small office and we try to stay on the same page so that no one is blindsided when dealing with a particular customer or situation.While relaying a conversation I had with a customer which involved my being called a very inappropriate name, I was told not to take it to heart. But, I think that is actually the problem. We have become so tolerant of being called names and spoken to with little to no respect that it has just become “the norm” and it shouldn't be. By tolerating bad behavior we are accepting bad behavior and with acceptance comes mass reproduction.

I for one am tired of the hate and anger that has become so widely spread. My heart hurts for children who are growing up in a world where they aren't encouraged and lifted up by strangers and loved ones alike. I am saddened by the lack of love shown in a smiling face while passing someone on the street. These things have been replaced by judgement and bullying, by whispering and eye rolling. These are not the things that our nation was built on. These are the very things that are crumbling our foundations. Our families, our churches, our schools and our nation are all suffering and it starts in the heart of each of us. It is time that we all do our part. Start holding each other accountable. Stop tolerating the intolerable. Start taking things personally and then do something about it. It is time that we mend our foundations and build strong families and communities again. It is time we make a difference!

Share with us the difference you are making!

Saving for Christmas....in July!

Hey Ya'll! I know we have been gone on a bit of a sabbatical, but....we are back and ready to post! School is starting back, vacations are ending and fall is coming so we have LOTS to talk about!

My first post back is probably not something we are not ready to start thinking about, but we need to. Christmas. I LOVE Christmas! To me, the worst part about it is that it doesn't last long enough. I am a decorate in November leave it through January (sometimes longer) kind of girl! So, maybe not all of you can agree with me on that, but I bet you will agree that the Christmas season is EXPENSIVE!
Every year I tell myself that I am going to do better about planning ahead so that all the expense doesn't hit at once, but this year, I have already put my plan into action!

Here are a few tips to help minimize the financial blow of Christmas!

1) PLAN! Make your shopping list early. Knowing who you are planning to buy for will help when you run across something they may like over the next few months. Don't forget to add in a few hostess gifts for those parties you will attend.

2) Set a budget! Last year I found a gift organizer app that helped me keep track of what I purchased and how much I spent per person. Decide what will work best for you without causing a hardship and stick to it!

3) Start saving! Use your budget to determine how much you should put back each payday. Whether you use a savings account or a coffee can buried in the back yard, make sure you keep your Christmas money separate from your other $$$!

4) Designate and area to store gifts you purchase early! There is nothing worse than purchasing a gift early and not remembering where you hid it later.
5) Encourage your family to plan early! If you will be traveling for the holidays you could save a ton by booking flights and hotels early!

6) Stocking Stuffers! Stockings are one of my favorite Christmas traditions but they can add up to a hefty price in a hurry. Especially if you don't plan ahead. Back to school clearance is a great time to shop for stocking stuffers!

7) Don't go overboard! Try to make it through this holiday season without racking up a whole lot of debt. It will make the New Year much more pleasant!

8) ENJOY IT! Without the stress of rushing around and crowds you are more likely to enjoy choosing the doll that looks just like your niece or the perfect handbag for your sister in law! There can be such joy in gift giving! Not to mention, you will have so much more time to make memories with your loved ones!

I hope these ideas will get you started on a much happier path to the holidays! What do you do to save yourself from the stress of expenses surrounding the holidays? We would love to hear from you!