Cash Flow Plan aka as The Budget

Last night we had our 2nd session in the Financial Peace University put on by our church. We watched a 68 min. DVD with Dave Ramsey and worked in our workbook learning how to develop our Cash Flow Plan (or Our Budget). Coming from a household that didn't really execute a budget it was very enlightening to learn. On the drive home we chatted about our bills and house note and discussed a plan. You know, the type of discussion that is GOOD for a marriage, planning sessions. Planning to me is like a piece of chocolate cake. I love structure. So, last night's session was extremely worthwhile. I will let you know how the Cash Flow plan is coming along. I can't wait to see exactly where our money is going and how we should restructure our spending. Should be fun... or not!

Just to give you an idea of how Dave Ramsey's program has touched other people's lives here is a testimonial from K.L. (hope you don't mind me posting your experiences...):

K.L. said...
Aimee,
I am a big Dave Ramsey fan. I will give you my testimonial:
I first saw him on "The Gayle King Show" about 7 years ago and immediately
purchased his "Financial Peace" book. My husband and I were fresh out of
college and loaded with debt. Fast forward 7 years and we are completely
debt free ... we burned our mortgage five months ago. It felt terrific! Our
house isn't exactly a palace, but is 100% ours and I like it a whole lot
more now!! It is an awesome feeling to be debt free, building wealth and
saving for our children's college ... all the while knowing that we have an
emergency fund to keep us going if we both suddenly become unemployed.
Today, we went out and splurged on Gymboree clothing and a new fancy
schmancy suit for my husband (all on sale, of course, we still love a
bargain)... it feels awesome to know that this is a luxury that we CAN
AFFORD! Truly, now my husband can breath easier at work ... having this
financial security has actually freed him to do a better job b/c he doesn't
feel tied to this particular paycheck. Obviously, Dave Ramsey has changed
the course of our lives. Today, at Gymboree, I watched with envy as some
woman's mother plopped down $300.00 to buy 2 (yes, only two, that place is
expensive) cute outfits for her granddaughters ... my parents or in-laws
could never afford to do that, but I will be able to for my grandkids!

How awesome, K.L.! I would be interested in talking to you via email if you would be so kind. Obviously you would be a great person to lean on while we get our plan in action. We don't have that much debt, but are more doing this to get a "plan" together for us and our family tree. I find your story very encouraging and can't imagine NOT having a house note. Congratulations!