Goals for July 2012: The Cash-Only Challenge – Baby Steps

Photograph Credit: Flickr (Angie Torres)

Summer is flying by. With days spent at the water park and in the jump zones, I look forward to my afternoon naps.

In keeping a busy schedule, some of these goals were hit or miss this month. Though progress is slow, I continue to take baby steps as I grow, learn, and follow Crystal’s 12-month plan as outlined in The Money Saving Mom’s Budget.

The following is a recap of my progress in June, and my new goals for July:

Physical

Drink 4 glasses of water per day.  Success on the days I drank water. Yes, I went a few days drinking other beverages, mainly sweet tea or diet coke. Though making some headway, I will keep this goal for another month before adding another glass.

Eat breakfast each morning. I did much better this month as I chose to eat when my children ate. Though not consistent, I am moving in the right direction.

Exercise for 20 minutes at least 3 times a week. Though falling flat on my face here, I will not deter from this goal. My activity has increased running around with my children, but this goal is to build my stamina. This goal will continue for July.

Family

Plan at least one family outing/activity each week. Accomplished! Visited a local zoo, went tubing, helped a friend, and attended a birthday party. Love this goal, and keeping it all year.

Spend 10 minutes with each child each day. I find it easier to spend personal time with my kids when I’m home. However, my youngest has received the most Mommy-time when we are out. She needs more attention while my older two play together. This goal is still a priority that I aim to reach each day.

Allow children to help with a household task each week. Love it when my children finish one task and then come to ask how they can help. The initiative shown makes this momma proud. Our house is not in tip-top shape, but I’m getting there with lots of help.

Financial

Follow Crystal’s year-long plan to reach my goals. Still behind, but I did pay cash when going out to dinner with friends. To be honest, I did not feel empowered or any different from paying with the credit card. From what others share, the full-fledged budgeting is freeing. I’m not there, but I understand the freedom in having a plan.

Purchase dressers for my daughters’ room. This goal is ongoing. No progress made on this goal for June. Not sure when we will move our girls into the same room. Right now, there is no hurry.

Purchase upgraded computers for hubby and me. This goal is also ongoing. We purchased more memory this month to increase the processing speed of my laptop. We are waiting for delivery of our purchase.

Business

Write posts one week in advance. I feel like two steps forward and then catching up on this goal. When I get ahead, I end up taking a day off which results in writing one day ahead. Though not where I want to be, I am not behind. This goal remains as I work to get ahead.

Make one improvement to the blog this month. Accomplished! Though not seen from the front end, I have started making a backup of my category posts. This project is underway with completion in sight.

Read two chapters of blog book each month. Half done – I read one chapter this month. With my summer reading complete, I hope to increase reading this month.

In reflecting back, I am happy with my progress. This is journey is full of ups and downs, and I’m learning what I can handle. Without regret, I am pressing on and will continue to update you along the way. Keep taking baby steps!

Question: How are you doing on your goals this year?