<BR>After my divorce I was feeling pretty good.<BR>But the problem i have had is reducing my spending to accomodate the fact that i am now a single mother. <BR>Unfortunately, i have incurred some debts although very manageable, has anyone else ever experienced this problem?<BR>I am thinking about cancelling the credit card because it is too much of a temtation.

looking ahead,<P>I'm definately experiencing the same problem!! I'm trying to take care of 3 boys and manage a home with a low paying job. Add to that, that my stbx thinks it's funny that he's not paying child support. (We'll see who's laughing when we go to court next week! )<P>I have a very tight budget and there's little left for extras. I will be getting a raise by Dec 1, but that's about 6 weeks away. Just trying to keep my head above water until then!<P>Mitzi

I am going to be a single mother soon. I have a little one that is growing like a weed and still in diapers. The cost is amazing for clothes and diapers. I try 2nd hand stores but not much luck in boys clothes.<P>I also had to cut out a lot of stuff. I cut up all of my credit cards. I didn't cancel my accounts (I can call and get a new car if needed for an emergency or give the # in the event of an emergency) but I cut them up and don't carry them with me.<P>I cancelled all magazine and paper subscriptions(I usually ask friends for their copies when done) and I have been stretching a lot of meals to left overs that I used to throw out.<P>Make a list of all the things you don't really need and list all the ways to save money, coupons, turn the heat down in the house while no one's home, buy off brands, hang dry clothes (if possible) turn off lights, limit yourself to eating out only 1-2x's every two weeks.<P>I have done all these things (even took call waiting off my phone), found free internet access, and I have noticed that the money is more managable now and I don't miss these things. It is hard to change your lifestyle, but you can. There are websites out there that give hints and ideas as well. Take a look.

<P>Hey thanks!<BR>It isn't so much that i feel like i am drowning. But by no means do i even want to test the waters!<BR>Thanks for the suggestions!