OverFixed Budget

     Unless you got married in your late 30's with 10 years of savings, a young millionaire or you married a millionaire...you and your spouse have probably planned out a budget. You think you are so organized, setting aside this amount for groceries, making sure your cable and electricity bills are pinned down, OH! and don't forget car payments insurance. Wow... I almost forget RENT or mortgage, which ever one applies to you, its due every month. So your budget is set and fixed. But I'm wondering if it's too tight? Did you both agree on the parameters of the budget? Did you think the grocery amount should have been higher, yet hubby thinks it's just enough for the two of you? It is so important that you both agree or at least come to some sort of compromise on the details of the budget. Make sure there is a good reason behind why you chose a certain amount. Don't just say $600 for groceries a month just because you want it that way. Be certain that your suggestion is logical and fits within your combined income limits.
    So you're home from the honeymoon, tanned and well rested...or not ;-), now that great budgeting plan kicks in. You get up, go to work, get paid, put the money in the savings account and only touch it to pay bills and then do it all over again every month. This can become a vicious cycle if you're not careful. Are you so worried about saving that you don't have room to live now? Is there space in your budget for date night, a surprise gift for the hubby, or flowers for the wifey? Is there room to wiggle? As much as I believe in saving for the future, you don't want to squeeze your money so tight that you don't enjoy your newlywed years. You should make room for little weekend getaways, or a nice restaurant every now and then and I don't mean Applebees or Chili's. This is the time to set the "sparkle" for the rest of your lives. Things can get comfortable really quick in a new marriage. You see the same person everyday, and while you made this decision when you said "I do", you have to put in the extra effort to keep things spicy. But spicy doesn't always mean expensive. There are so many ways to keep the sparks in your marriage without breaking your budget. I am a firm believer in websites like Groupon and LivingSocial where you can find great deals on restaurants, comedy shows, spas, trips and gifts. I have taken the hubby out many times to great restaurants spending as little as $25 for a three course meal, for the BOTH of us. Yes! In New York City. Therefore I know it can be done. Sometimes I just search the web for free events that are happening in the area. All it takes is a little bit of effort and Google!
     Budgets...really important for establishing good financial habits and a great step towards long term stability, however, you want to savor the now moments, revel in the present, live it up just a little, paint the town whatever color you choose, just enjoy each other while you have the chance. Remember life is short...so "Carpe Diem" with the one you love the most!!!