blog crush of the week: And Then We Saved

O. M. G. I like to use the popular teen phrases because I like to think I am young and cool like Phil Dunphy. (Quick way to make yourself sound old. Say, "Teen phrases.") If you have never seen the first episode of Modern Family, stop what you are doing and go watch it, NOW. (At the very least, here is the clip I am referring to. So if you hear or see me throw out a LOLz here or there, you will know it is all for the love of Phil Dunphy.)

So by now you are you probably asking yourself, "What the heck does Phil Dunphy have to do with the And Then We Saved blog?" I guess it was the short-story-long way of telling you that when I first discovered this blog I thought to myself... O. M. G.! Yup.

First, there is the basic premise of the blog. Blog author, Anna, paid down nearly 24K of debt in just 15 months. You read that right. So if you are feeling a little "in the hole" at the moment, this blog might be right up your alley and give you some much needed help and hope to conquer your financial issues. She offers a "Spending Diet" and a "Spending Fast ®" (both totally free programs/advice) depending on your situation and needs. Her writing is gentle, empathetic, intelligent and accessible. Being in financial trouble is scary and difficult and Anna is like a friend who knows her stuff and can hold your hand along the way.

The second thing I love about this blog is that Anna encourages happy and thoughtful living, some of which has to do with money and spending and some of which doesn't. This blog is the whole shabang!

As always, let me point you to a couple of my favorite posts to get you started and then you are off to explore on your own. Enjoy! xo

p.s. Don't forget to LIKE creative geekery on Facebook. Please AND thank you!

1. 134 Random Acts of Kindness (If you need a little refresher on how important these are, watch "Pay it Forward." Tear!) My favorite on this list is #87 although I try to stop at ALL lemonade stands. It is a happiness win-win. Don't forget to tip. ;)

from andthenwesaved.com

2. 56 Things to Do Instead of Spending Money- This is FANtastic. I definitely could have used this my first few years out of college. Yikes! Possible graduation gift? Print it out and slap a bow on it, baby!

from andthenwesaved.com

3. For the working outside of the home mamas! Make it (even more) worth your while (besides the whole keeping your sanity part).