How To Become Financially Stable In Less Than One Year

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Most people would agree they always worry about money. No matter how much they earn, folks tend to find a way of spending their income. Indeed, even some of the highest earners find themselves with lots of debts. Considering that, we think it’s about time everyone made a change. Becoming financially stable could drastically improve your life. It will remove all those money worries and make you a happier person. When you have lots more cash in the bank, you can spend it on enjoying yourself. That could mean more family holidays, bigger homes, and a better life.

 

Getting financially fit is not as difficult as it might sound. You just need to take control of your finances and follow our advice. The tips on this page are designed to help even the most troubled people to turn things around. Believe it or not, there is always a solution. You just need to work out what it involves. In some instances, declaring yourself bankrupt is the only option. Don’t stress about that just yet. There are lots of moves you can make before you reach checkmate.

 

 

  • Stop spending now

 

 

Firstly, you need to stop spending money right now. Cancel those expensive mobile phone contracts, and refrain from buying designer clothes. The only money leaving your accounts should be for rent or mortgage payments and utility bills. Everything else can wait. It is possible to buy your weekly food very cheaply at budget stores. There is no need to spend anything else until you are stable. We never said getting your money sorted as going to be easy. It will involve many sacrifices on your part. So, get used to it as soon as possible. You need to live like a pauper for the next twelve months if you want to make headway.

 

 

  • Downsize your property

 

 

Those of you with a mortgage should consider selling your homes. Those of you renting should look for somewhere cheaper. We usually find that properties are available for less expense in different areas. So, it might make sense for you to relocate to a nearby town. You obviously need enough bedrooms for your family. However, you don’t require anything more. That huge kitchen and bathroom have got to go. By downsizing now, you could save thousands of pounds in a year. There are lots of estate agencies in your hometown. Make sure you pay them a visit to see what’s available on the market today.

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  • Use short-term loans

 

 

You might think that borrowing is a bad idea. However, short-term loans could stop you from falling further into the pit. Representatives from Cashfloat.co.uk told us more people are using their services than ever before. That is because the industry is now regulated thoroughly. Also, decent lenders make security their priority. So, there’s no need to worry about someone stealing your personal details when making your application. Short-term loans are perfect when you’re about to default on alternative borrowing. They could be enough to keep your creditor happy until payday arrives. Just make sure you always read the small print and meet repayment deadlines.

 

 

  • Sell your valuable possessions

 

 

Maybe you own a ring that is worth thousands? Perhaps you made the bad decision of buying a sports car last year? Selling your most valuable possessions now could help to get you out of trouble. You just need to work out which items are worth the most money. Don’t make the mistake of trying to sell them via an auction website if you want the best deal. Also, using pawn shops is out of the question. While you need cash for the item, you should hold on until the price is right. Ripping yourself off when you’re already skint is a terrible idea.

 

 

  • Look for a better job

 

 

Finding work in the current climate can be tough. However, those of you with the right skills and experience shouldn’t have too much trouble. You might need to get your hands dirty and do something with which you are not comfortable. Even so, you need to follow the money because beggars can’t be choosers. Your partner should also seek better-paid work whenever the opportunity arises. It’s all hands on deck until your finances are sorted. Just make sure you don’t bother with government job websites. No respectable company would advertise positions on those sites. You need to check out relevant online job boards.

 

 

  • Seek professional help

 

 

There are thousands of financial professionals who could help to ensure you get back on track. You just need to find one with a good track record. You pay a small amount for their services, and then follow the plan they highlight. People working in that industry will not judge you. They will simply take a long and hard look at your accounts. They’ll work out where you can save money, and how you should progress. They’ll even make recommendations with regards to bankruptcy. That is not something you want to do lightly. However, sometimes it’s the only option left on the table.

 

With those tips under your belt, sorting your finances is achievable. You just need to create a plan and stick to it. You also need to throw all those credit cards in the bin. You simply can’t afford to spend money you don’t have any longer. Just look at the situation it’s got you in right now. Hopefully, our advice should ensure you become totally stable in less than one year. Those of you who have to file for bankruptcy will struggle for a while longer. Just bear in mind that you lose all control over your finances when that happens. The official receiver will take your bank accounts and determine how much you can spend.

 

We wish you the best of luck with your financial situation. It’s important you remember that all is not lost. There are always ways in which you can make improvements. You just need to identify the best course of action before moving forward.

 

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What You Need to Know About Car Seat Safety

It wasn’t that long ago that car seats were a luxury to most parents – kids road in the back of the cars, usually without seat belts. They road in the back  of the station wagon without a seat, sometimes crammed in next to the groceries. Seat belts weren’t mandatory, and sometimes kids road in the floor or even sitting upside down!

Fast forward 30 some years, and with research it’s been found that car seats save lives (imagine that!). But the scary part is that over 80% of these car seats are not installed or used properly, causing an even bigger safety issue!

So I wanted to share some Car Seat Safety  info that someone passed along to me, so that you can be sure you’re little ones are safe while you travel!

Know Your Car Seats Expiration Date. Did you know car seats expire?! Purchasing or re-using an older car seat can be dangerous. Over time the car seats material can fatigue and start to crack, severely hampering the seat’s ability to protect your child in an accident, also the engineering improvements and safety regulations are always changing. Most car seats are good for six to ten years – but always check the seat for more information, or call the manufacturer.

Replace Car Seats Involved in an Auto Accident. Unfortunately I had to learn this one first hand – somewhat like the seat expiring, the seats ability to protect your child after already being involved in an accident lowers quite significantly. Even in a minor accident, it is always best to replace the car seat since the hardware of the seat has been compromised. Most insurance companies will pay to replace car seats involved in an accident,  be sure to contact your claims adjuster for details on how to get it replaced!

Know What Car Seat Your Child Needs. From ‘pumpkin’ seats, to rear facing, front facing, and booster seats, you need to do your research. Every child is different and it doesn’t always go by age. Check height/weight requirements on the seat, as well as with your state.

Get the Seat Installed Correctly. I never left this one to chance – though I’m sure there are many parents who could properly install the car seats correctly, I always recommend going to your local fire department to have them install the seats in your vehicle for you. With special training (and those muscles!) they know the proper way to have the seat installed…and its FREE. .and you get to see hot fire men… why wouldn’t you??

All kidding aside, motor vehicle accidents are the number one killer of children in the U.S. don’t risk  your child being another statistic!

 

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Easy & Delicious Holiday Treats

One of our family traditions each year around the holidays is taking time to bake together. I’m not just talking a few dozen cookies  – I’m saying an all-out-all-day bake fest. My Grandma, Mom and Aunt have been doing this since I was a little kid, and I guess officially the past few years I have been deemed old enough to join (though I will have to say being the ‘kid’ and taste tester is way more fun).

We have a few classics we always make that are pretty easy (see below) – and I’ve found a new one I want to incorporate to our plans this year that looks delicious (and you know I love any recipe that includes the word easy). Easy Rugelach   from the Farm Girls Gab looks right up by alley. I can’t wait to try it out this year!
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Peanut Butter Blossoms is one of my favorites! (especially right when they come out of the oven). This recipe from Musings From a Stay at Home Mom is right on target. You definitely need to add this to your holiday baking list!
peanut_butter_blossomsBeing from Ohio Buckeyes are also a traditional item we bake every year. Adventures of a Gluten Free Mom has a great step-by-step instruction guide for you to follow to make your own buckeyes at home!

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This post is already starting to make me hungry  – I almost can’t wait to get baking! We can’t forget a few more of our holiday favorites though, like Chocolate Crinkles – the closest recipe I could find (without giving away family secrets lol) was through SimplyRecipes.These are also one of my favorites and my kids too!

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and last but not least – we call it Peanut Raisin Candy,but others usually use Peanut Raisin Clusters. I think this is 110% my absolute favorite. Check out the crockpot recipe version over on Punkie Pie’s Place. What I love about these is you can freeze them for up to a year!
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Posted in Holidays, Recipes | 1 Comment

Vehicle Safety: Are You Prepared??

Since summer is now in the rear view mirror, it’s time to start thinking (and preparing) for the harsher winter months. Besides making sure your home is well prepared, one of the  biggest concerns is having vehicle issues, or being stranded in your car during a big winter storm. With my husband being a trucker, we’ve experienced some pretty scary weather over the years, and we’ve came up with a list of things you need to do – or have – to make sure you are prepared for anything that might come your way.

Keep Up with Proper Car Maintenance. Keeping your vehicle in top notch shape is one of the most important factors in vehicle safety. Simple things like changing your oil and filter and topping off other fluids on a regular basis is very important when traveling especially in bad weather. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, you always have a full gas tank, and you have extra fluids in your car just in case of an emergency.

Update Your First Aid Kit. I have to admit sometimes I am guilty of this myself; my first aid kit may or may not have the original band-aids, and alcohol wipes that came with it when I bought it. Besides the already-made first aid kits, it’s always a good idea to add your own items as well. You can find a list of some great first aid items here and other emergency kit items here. Remember to update your kit and replenish at least once a month!

Know How to Avoid a Bad Situation. Staying off the road before they are cleared, avoiding back roads when possible, and learning how to control your vehicle under certain road conditions are key to keeping safe. If you’re not sure – don’t risk it. Listen to the news or radio to find out if your town is under a driving restriction.

Following these simple tricks will not only make you feel more confident as you are traveling in less than desirable conditions, but it will also have you prepared for almost any situation that you find yourself in!

 

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Candy Corn Recipe Round Up

My son and my nephew are completely obsessed with candy corn. Unlike other kids who can’t wait for Halloween to roll around for the chocolate, they are stalking their candy bags for candy corn treats! This year we decided to make some festive fall treats, and I was amazed at all the awesome (and tasty) looking recipes I found using their favorite, candy corn! So I had to share some of my favorites – which ones do you like best??

This Candy Corn Pretzel Bark from The Farm Girl Gabs looks like it would be a favorite of my entire family.

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These candy corn and white chocolate chip cookies look absolutely amazing as well. I love homemade cookies –  who doesn’t right?
candy_corn_white_chocolate_cookiesI love the idea of this cute “Candy Corn on the Cob‘ idea-

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and last but not least, these Candy Corn Popcorn Balls I found on MyRecipes.

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