Sara: When I was young and single, there were a lot of things I swore I’d never do as a mother, like watch every penny. Or go a year without buying new clothes. Or say, “Because I said so!” Basically, I swore I’d never be like my “uncool” mother!

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Since I no longer work full-time outside the home, Justin and I have begun to shift some of our household responsibilities. Mainly, I’ve unofficially taken over the duties of paying bills, grocery shopping, and most of the cooking and cleaning. Since we have less “wiggle room” in the budget now that I’m not generating a full-time salary, I’m determined to earn money by saving money. Coupons, sales, and what we currently have in the pantry pretty much determines our menu plan each week.

I’ve been reading some money saving blogs, and they’ve been really encouraging on how to squeeze money out of a tight budget. One of the main things I do is make a grocery list and stick to it. One week, I planned out a scenario (which took about an hour, I might add) that enabled me to get about fifty dollars worth of groceries for thirty dollars. When I went to checkout at the store, the store would not accept my coupons because they came from the internet. The manager refused to budge, so I made a scene as I put back over forty dollars worth of groceries. Of course, Gus was fussy at this time as well, which didn’t help the situation. At this point, I was frustrated because I didn’t feel the store had properly communicated their coupon policy before I began the transaction. Not purchasing all the groceries was as much a matter of principle as it was about saving the money.

As I walked back to the car, I realized I had become my mother. Pinching pennies was a huge priority for her, just as it is now for me. With the exception of maternity clothes, I can’t remember the last time I bought new clothes for myself. While my hair looks good slicked back in a ponytail (and Gus pulls on it less), I know I’m overdue for a haircut. However, I’ve realized that putting the needs of my family members first is more important to me than new “stuff.”

However, it’s also important to find things I enjoy doing and also have some time away from Gus. However, finding that balance can be difficult.

Yup, I’ve become my mother. Somehow, now I feel like that’s a compliment.