When my husband and I first married, I didn't have any real sense about saving and/or spending wisely. I allowed my husband to assume control over finances because of his excellent upbringing.
We initially rented for six years as we saved money for our own home during the years we were both working. Our first son was born four years post-wedding but our rental home was sufficient for one extra tiny being, and it offered me the opportunity to stay at home to raise him while always looking for ways to save money and always following my husband's example. We only spent our money on "needs" rather than "wants".
After two more years, we were expecting our second son. We had enough money to buy our first home, not a down payment, but actually purchase a small home. It wasn't necessarily located in a place that would have been our first choosing, but it WAS a home and it WAS paid for. Our second child was born and we continued to put our money towards needs rather than wants. It allowed us to eventually save enough to add to the equity of our home and buy another small home in a more desirable location. Our kids always had clean clothes, food, and a roof over their heads while growing up. We always had control over what they did, when they ate, and how much sleep they had.
In the last eight years, saved money was once again added to our home equity allowing us to build a new home with 3 bathrooms and 4 bedrooms. We have always lived debt-free, I have always been at home to care for my family. Our sons, who are now 22 and 19, have always saved for their own cellphones, iPods and brand name shoes.
I read somewhere that "most people don't live within their means because they don't consider it living", but it allows for a truly beautiful life without financial worries.
By oSandi from Sherwood Park, Alberta
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