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CTC Readers' Poll:
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"Goals that I hope
to accomplish in 2009 include, but are by no means
not limited to enjoying simple things, and simply
recognizing those ways to do so, in order that they
won't pass me by unnoticed and unappreciated. Reduced
income (by more than 50%) has made it necessary to be
more creative in my problem-solving many times.
For example, yes, we could go to the store and buy a
prepackaged dessert item to make, or I could search my
accumulated recipes for the opportunity to make
something for which I have the ingredients already at
hand. Doing this allows me to seize problems and
recognize them as opportunities for God to work and show
me what He wants me to learn. This means that in order
for Him to be the excellent teacher that He is, I must
commit myself to learning from Him. I also plan to make
our money 'work harder' for the ways in which it is
used. That will involve creativity as well. This past
summer, I visited relatives in another state. During our
stay, I discovered that multiple yard sales were going
on in this affluent neighborhood in which they live. I
bought 2 very nice winter tops, suitable for work, at a
very affordable $2 each. Every time someone
compliments me about those two sweaters, I 'compliment'
God as well. After all, He is the One Who provided!
I also want to remember in all of these times to
seek God for His help, and praise Him for the solutions.
That is true appreciation. How easy it is to seek Him
out only in times of difficulty, and totally overlook
giving Him thanks for times of provision." ~ Kathy
"I am definitely going to keep track of what I spend on a daily basis. I use my debit card for purchases for convenience sake, but I also tend to use it more freely than if I actually had the cash on me. So I’m definitely going to keep track of my spending, limit it, and contribute more to my savings. I think once I contain the spending, putting myself on a budget will be more do-able." ~ Michelle "My family and I have been on a quest to become debt free since May 2007. Our goal is to 'Reach the Finish Line in 2009!' We have 3 credit cards to go. That's down from 12! The week between Christmas and New Year we will be working on a visual aid (poster) to hang on our refrigerator to help keep us on track." ~ Christy Editor's Note: Thanks to these readers who took time to write! |