Wednesday, April 4, 2012

My review of The Money Saving Mom's Budget audio book

This is it! The all inclusive, how-to guide to get out of debt, be frugal, and save money from the reigning expert. The Money Saving Mom's Budget book spares nothing.
Prepare yourself to hear some solid advice and ideas that will push your comfort level. If you are ready to ditch debt, cut the cards, coupon and make a budget this has everything you need to know. I would call this the official guide to frugal living. Crystal Paine's ideas and methods will force you to get real and think about your life. It may not make you comfortable, it may make you emotional: but when it comes to saving money and getting out of debt, emotions must be put aside. The good news is you can be comfortable too.
The first chapter on goal setting really challenged me to evaluate my time and get back to prioritizing and planning again. Something I used to do but get complacent about! Cutting out clutter in your home, being a master over your minutes and restructuring your priorities are just some of the useful nuggets of tips and reminders we Mom's need to keep things running. So often we are overwhelmed because we try to do it all. She is a great advocate for all Mom's as she says it's ok to say no!!
I don't think there is anything missed in this tell-all of the mega blogger's tips, tales and advice. Not only does she break it down into logical, simple direction, she also provides websites and sources for even more ideas and encouragement. Such as a website for using leftovers to make more meals.

Crystal teaches you budgeting, paying off debt, about everything you need to know about couponing, and how to cut the cost on almost any thing in your life. Even the necessities such as dental and health care, eyeglasses and utilities. There is even tips on making extra money quickly and how to have a successful garage sale.
Get in on the tricks for frugal entertainment and eating out. Just because you are living simply doesn't mean you can't enjoy life a little. Get Crystal's ideas on saving money for vacations and while on vacation, and the use of coupons and Groupons.
Using what you have, and changing your thinking seemed to be the resounding theme of this book. My favorite chapter is actually the last chapter where she tells her personal story on how she got so good at what she does, and why her and her family continue to be that way. Strong in her faith, she is not afraid to credit that it took lot's of faith and God's help to make it through. "Contentment is a choice", she says. "Count your blessings and bloom where you're planted."
This is a great read, (or listen) for anyone who is interested in learning some new tips for saving more money, or getting completely out of debt and living a new lifestyle. Even if you think you have frugality down, I think there is still plenty in this book to gain. Get the audio version of this best selling book, here.