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Hi, I'm new too

Hi everyone

I've been lurking for a couple of weeks, but just got brave enough to say hi properly.

It's really hit me recently that I need to do something about my debt, so since 1st May I have been writing down everything I spend so at the end of the month I can see where to cut down. In the meantime I am already trying - sensible meals, and I've made three birthday cards and one present instead of buying. A small step, but given that the last birthday present I bought was for a friend I've not seen in a year and cost £50, I'd say I need to change! Just hope friends appreciate the thought and effort and don't resent the lack of money value. I suppose if that were the case they'd not be very good friends eh?

Sorry, rambling now. I'm sure I'll be asking for loads of advice so thanks in advance.

Piggy
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Comments

  • Broken_hearted
    Broken_hearted Posts: 9,553 Forumite
    Hello, they arn't a good friend if they don't understand. WElcome to the board.
    Barclaycard 3800

    Nothing to do but hibernate till spring






  • welcome Piggybanker :)
    Good luck & feel free to ask any questions you want.
    were all in the same boat :)
    Debt at highest £16k+
    Debt at lightbulb moment £14,800
    Current debt £6336
    Cleared £4206 in November 05 How ? Bye Bye PPI :)
  • moxie_2
    moxie_2 Posts: 609 Forumite
    I actually like receiving 'home made' presents, they show some thought and care have gone into them. Welcome and please ask anything you like, can't say I'm an expert, but I've been through quite a lot, one way or another.
    Total debt May 2005 £83,232 :eek:
    Total Debt November 2009 £0! DEBT FREE!
    Proud to have dealt with my debts
    Official DFW Nerd Club member no. 028
  • Annie_Fanny
    Annie_Fanny Posts: 1,167 Forumite
    Hey Piggybanker

    Well done for posting.

    It may help to post a 'Statement of Affairs' (SOA) here so that we can help you examine your expenditure and help you cut back. Have a look at this fantastic thread to point you in the right direction:
    http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=107280

    Also am wondering if you have had any bank charges - late payment penalty fees etc?

    Good luck!

    Annie
    "Debt makes plans for you" - A quote from my friend Catherine. How true!
  • Molanole
    Molanole Posts: 1,563 Forumite
    Debt-free and Proud!
    :hello: Piggybanker, welcome!

    If you post a statement of affairs then the fantastic regulars and old hands on here will be able to give you suggestions as to where and how you can cut down on your expenditure. But in the mean time, hello, welcome and remember, we're all here if you ever need us!

    M x
    Debt Free Nerd No. 89, LBM: April 2006, Debt at highest (Sept 05): £40,939.96
    NOW TOTALLY DEBT FREE!!!!!!!! Woooo hooooooo!!! DEBT FREE DATE: 23 December 2009
  • Piggybanker
    Piggybanker Posts: 172 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture Combo Breaker
    Thanks everyone. I thought I would wait until the end of the month to post SOA once I can see clearly where everything has gone this month, as I don't really know how much I've been spending on food etc.

    Re bank charges - have been shuffling bits and peices around each month to make sure don't go over overdraft and credit limits, so I've not had charges - just hefty interest!

    thanks again
    Piggy
  • domestic_goddess
    domestic_goddess Posts: 1,044 Forumite
    Hiya
    I Am New Too But Am Finding Everyone Here Is Very Welcoming And Very Helpful Especially When You Post Your Soa.

    The Advice You Will Get Is Invaluable. Good Luck
  • In_Search_Of_Me
    In_Search_Of_Me Posts: 10,634 Forumite
    Welcome! The hardest part is facing it so well done for doing that...First advice do a diary of every penny you spend & post your soa asap so people can help you practically...its hard & time consuming but worth it as at least then you know what you're dealing with....big hugs meanwhile
    Nerd no 109 Long haulers supporters DFW #1! Even in the darkest moments, love and hope are always possible.

  • milliejon
    milliejon Posts: 1,052 Forumite
    Hiya. I've not been here long but everybody is really friendly and full of good advice! I wish I'd found this site ages ago!
    DMP mutual support number 174
    Total debt now (April 10) £0! - total paid off £30,221 or 100%
    I'm now debt free after 6 years!!:j
    Non smoker since June 2006 :j
  • Weymouth_Man
    Weymouth_Man Posts: 733 Forumite
    :j WELCOME, piggybanker to MSE :j
    ;)!!!!!!There are More Questions Than Answers!!!!!!:eek:
    :search: But I Just Don't Have Any Answers :idea:
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