Beginning- End of July

I'm writing this at the end of July. It's the third month since my first baby was born, meaning while I do have an adorable baby to coo at, I haven't had a second source of steady income of my own as I was used to before April. My husband has a nice job that sustains our bills and common costs, but beyond our needs, times are tight.

I consider myself to be creative, frugal, and above all- resourceful. These hard-earned traits have been honed through college and living on my own. But this is a whole new level!
I'd like to share my tips and tricks for living within a tight budget. My most recent goal was to only spend $100 from my savings on things beyond regular bills. Regular bills include my mortgage, water, gas, electricity, car payments, internet, student loans, etc, and a small budget for entertainment. Entertainment includes Netflix and
$40 to a date night.

Groceries, clothing, and most other things less strictly managed--- the things that get me in trouble with my budget and means- that's what I am keeping to $100. Any expense beyond this must be met with cash.

I'm lucky because I am an artist. While this means I don't have a cushy job with sweet benefits and a chance at retiring, it does mean I have a unique ability to sell pieces of paper for a nice little spot of money! I also fix up furniture (or let my husband to that part) and paint it, and I find cool things at garage sales and sell them.

Its not an exact science. I'm already over budget at $128 this month. But I feel like sharing my tricks will help keep me accountable, and also might just help someone else save and live a good lifestyle, even when times are tight :)