Word of the Year

For several years I have chosen a word for the year. For many years it has been JOY since I have had so many things thrown at me. I have had other words over the years and all of them have served a special purpose.

Some years I have struggled with what my word will be. Some years I know automatically - even before the new year starts. I will often pray about what my word should be. This word will help me focus on the upcoming year. 

Words are funny. You can have multiple meanings for the same word. They can be spelled the same way and have completely different meanings. I also like to look at the etymology of a word. (I’m a nerd like that!)  I started this search with the word “Thankful”. I want to be thankful for all the blessings I have and even in the hard times. But, that just didn’t seem to be the word. It didn’t feel right. 

Then, it came to me. My word of the year is “CHANGE”. I want to grow in my life - spiritually, emotionally, and physically. The only way is to change some of my thought processes and habits. I do not think this will be easy in all areas. If done correctly, my changes should lead to growth. Right?  I guess it will depend on me. 

 

 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11

This verse reminds us that change can sometimes be scary and frightening to us. It is okay. 

No Spend January and longer…

So, I have seen this No Spend January or No Spend 2025 floating around instagram/YouTube and I have decided to do this. Although we are pretty frugal, there are things I can cut out. 

 

This is my list:

I will buy:

1. No more craft supplies. I have enough craft supplies to last me for years. I need to organize and use them.

2. No more kitchen appliances! I am such a sucker for buying new gadgets! LOL! The only thing I would replace would be my Kitchenaide mixer and I don’t think it will break down. I have all the other toys. LOL!
3. No more shoes! (Shoes are my weakness! LOL!)

4. No more clothes unless absolutely necessary. And, if I do need more, the thrift store will be the first place to shop. I have lots of material that I can sew into garments.

5. no Amazon or Sam’s orders unless it is for dog/cat food, household items that are cheaper to order than buy in stores. 
6. No books! I can go to the library, borrow them online, or other sources. I have Amazon Unlimited and I am not ready to give that up. 
7. No seasonal decorations or candles. I need to use the candles I have. (Candles are also a weakness!)

8. No lotions, beauty products, hair products until I use what I have. I feel sure I have enough for the coming year (except for shampoo. I might need to buy that.)

9. No eating out except for our weekly date night (after church on Saturdays). This is more for Dennis’s benefit than mine. He won’t talk about not going out to eat after church. So, it stays. I realize there will times when I might have to eat out with friends or special events. I think the last time we just stopped to get something to eat because of convenience might have been back in the summer. I want to keep that going.

10. No pencils, pens, notebooks, journals, etc… (another big weakness!!)

 

I think those things will make a big difference. I’m going to start with January and see how it goes. Then, maybe I take it month by month. I would like to save enough money to buy a new-to-us vehicle. Our cars are older and Dennis wants a non-hybrid car. 

I will:

1. Continue to tithe and give to charities and those in need.

2. Continue to stock up on really good sales (food and household) 

3. Continue to give myself an allowance that will go in our slush fund! This is only $25 a week and we usually use it for trips or cash gifts.

4. Continue to investigate money saving ideas and learn from all of you!! 
5. Continue to be aware that the best of plans sometimes do not work out! Emergencies happen.