I went digging through some older posts from past years to find where I have talked about No-November in the past but I have yet to find anything. Yet, I am positive that I wrote about it before - maybe I just mentioned in a goal post . . .. I have no idea.
Several years ago I read/heard about the idea of "No-November" and really liked the concept. Now, that are several versions but mine is pretty simple; say "no" to anything not already planned or on the calendar related to events and money! I can remember that the reason this was inspiring to me was that we had been so extremely busy in September and October that I just wanted things to stop. I felt like our time was overwhelmed and our money was running through a sieve! I wanted it all to stop; to snuggle in as the colder weather arrive; to save instead of spend. It really put some things in perspective.
My family cringes a little when I say, "Guess what month it is???" LOL They all no exactly what I'm talking about. Last week I said something about it and Nate responded with, I have a few things to talk to you about and get on the calendar before Saturday :-) He knows the drill! Even though my instant answer is no to everything, there are things that come up that do get a "yes" such a friends birthday party. After all, I'm not really THAT mean!! It does mean no last minute stopping to grab something to eat, or to treat myself to my favorite coffee. Those are things that get a hard and fast no!
Will we still do things? That answer is yes. Our Co-Op has its Presentation Night this week plus the drama. My guys are heading off to a weekend retreat the weekend after that as well. But I do say no to things like field trips and unplanned extra events. This helps limit gas money and the need to grab a "treat".
Spending is the bigger item. I try to limit any extra spending. We live super tight anyway (super duper tight!!) but it's crazy how those little $5.00 stops add up. (Even things like adding my $0.99 box of popcorn from Meijer when I stop for gas adds up over a month - I know, a silly example but you get the idea). This time of year always seems to want money (yes, I did just type that and it is true - just think about it) With Birthdays and Christmas; plus all the extra events for the holidays - youth group parties, friend parties, get togethers and more. It is so easy to spend yourself crazy! I work hard to find some fun free things to do for holiday fun or create our own fun at home.
I recently updated our November calendar on the fridge and the comment from everyone was "Wow, that is so empty!" then came, "Lets keep it that way". I'm trying my dear family, I'm trying!
