A start of things to come

NORTHEASTDFW

Well my daughters play was brilliant she was looking around and saw me, her face was a picture spent a little more than fifty pence their were photos of the children dressed up for a pound i bought some raffle tickets to which i won i got a selection box, all proceeds went to school funds so overall spent £2-50 money well spent ha ha my confidence is on a high at the moment. Today i have been in contact with my ex employers they are unable to offer me any work at the moment but are going to keep me as a bank worker, i am feeling so happy at the moment i am going to post my statement of affairs soon.

LittleEmms

Hi NE DFW

Welcome and well done in posting. I'm new here too and once you get going, it becomes addictive. Your post is heartfelt, especially regarding your little girl.

I agree with spending the time. I know its cold at the moment, but she'll love just going to the park with you (wrapped up warm of course ). Swimming is good, take your own treats for after so she'll not want from the vending machines, expensive cafe etc. You'll be amazed how kids don't really care for money - as you said - her face was such a picture at you just being at her play. They are the moments that count.

Instead of the cinema - can you watch some classic kids films with her at home? Get some popcorn and make it like a cinema? She'll probably love being able to just be alone with you and ask you questions about the film! (maybe friends who have kids could lend you DVD's and some are on bargain prices at the moment - I got muppets christmas carol as a pressie for £3 at Asda - classic!!)

I hope your girlfriend does understand. You are doing this for a better future and it could be fun to work out those cheap nights in - rather than going out for meals. I've had some really tasty meals in lately - thanks to my Jamie Oliver book More romantic, the b/f is impressed with my cooking skills and also not expensive.

When you get ready - post your SOA on here. People are so helpful and will help you cut down in the areas you don't even realise you're spending on.

Welcome and keep your diary up!! Mine has really helped me and its amazing what feeling of control it has brought me!!

P.S - Hope none of the above sounds condescending about little girl, don't have children myself, just have a lot of friends in a similar position and stealing their ideas

oreo7504

Hello

I've not got any kids but I'm a nursing sister, so know care work there is loads of shifts out there, as there is usually someone off sick, people leave, etc.... If you work or are looking to get a job if it's not for a large group or a hospital, see if you employer will let you sign up for either NHS professionals or your local hospital as most days I will have an uncovered shift.

Are you a registered nurse or a care assistant, as it can make a difference to options for work.