Budgeting

Did you know that my family, my Grandmother, Carolyn, and her brother, Danny Lee, adopted me as a child? A simple act of loving devotion that has left me with a lifelong desire to see other children find their forever homes. No easy task, as many children in various state foster care systems are moved from home to home, from house to house, often toting their limited belongings in transient, trash bags. Leaving impressionable children, young scholars, artists, and athletes already struggling to find their place in this world, struggling to retain personal dignity and space.

While these problems lie much larger, more complicated socioeconomic, economic, and politicized issues. Yet, there are simple ways that everyday people, those like you, and I, can help- ways as simple as they are straightforward.

“My Bag My Story,” a non-profit organization that strives to improve the lives of foster youth by providing children with high-quality travel-style bags. With each bag purchased, another high-value bag is donated to help children navigate state foster care systems.

This initiative seeks to address the stigma of children and adolescents being prevented from the indignity that comes with carrying their possessions from place to place in mere garbage bags. Providing foster youth bags that are more than practical simplicity. These bags, train cases, and duffle bags are symbols of value, support, and recognition. Affirming the value of the shared human experience for every child in the foster care system. Helping American foster children feel seen and supported.

My Bag, My Story Founder, Cara Finger, explains that the organization’s origin started when she “Became a foster parent and watching children always have their belongings in a trash bag or grocery sack or nothing. Everyone kept saying this was normal. I said it doesn’t have to be normal, so I set out to have bags made for kids,” That “having a bag to call your own instead of a trash bag gives a child dignity and makes them feel valued. A bag seems so small but makes a huge difference in their foster care experience. Making a child feel like they are worth more than trash is so important to me.” A message vital to me as a fellow adopted child and as someone who, in turn, has helped support members of my own extended family to adopt children in recent wartime conditions.

Beyond community and state donations, My Bag, My Story has partnered with more than 30 Tennessee-based organizations to work directly with children in the foster care system to get them high-quality duffle bags, train cases, and backpacks. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, My Bag, My Story depends on the generosity and support of national corporations, including Dell, The Predators Foundation, Saint George’s Episcopal Church, and the Target Corporation.

National Foster Care Statistics

According to the United States Department of Education, more than 400,000 children rely on the National Foster Care System. With nearly 20,000 young persons aging out of foster care annually, between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one, respectfully. Many are without the option of being reunited with their families of origin or legalized adoption. Presenting challenges to young people transitioning to independent living without the guise or financial means of establishment. You can learn more about the foster care system and its many challenges to young children and adolescents, here.

Ways To Help

Ordering a bag from My Bag, My Story, helping to lend security and dignity to children and young adults navigating the foster care system, is one great way you can help send young Americans onto the path of dignity and diversity, today! With so many great options and styles, featuring high-quality fabrics, your generosity can help uplift children from the comfort of your own homes. You can also read other My Bag, My Story accounts on its website, and check out My Bag, My Story on Instagram and Facebook.

If buying a My Story, My Bag duffle, train case, or tote isn’t an option for you at present, I ask that you please consider sharing this organization’s mission with those in your own life. And if you’re looking for other ways to serve foster families, here are other ways you can positively impact those living in foster care in your neck of the woods.

Giveaway

To help spread this impactful message, the good people of Momentum Influencers are giving one TheLadyPrefers2Save.com reader a chance to win their own $10.00 Amazon card. To enter, please tell me in the comments about your own experiences with the foster care system. Or how you believe individuals can help improve the national foster care system. A winner will be chosen at random on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024, at 11:59 P.M. CST. Gift cards will be electronically sent from Momentum Influencers. Duplicate entries across all participating campaign websites will be disqualified. Good luck!

Friends, have you or your loved ones been impacted by the foster care system? Please leave your comments below.

Waking up can be hard, especially for those who are not happy at their jobs but haven’t found another opportunity yet or those who are going through a difficult time in their lives. Staying in your cozy and comfortable bed might feel like the only thing you want to do when you are dreading the to-do list or what the new day holds. We’ve all been there, grappling with tasks that feel like mountains. Let’s discuss some ways you can spark motivation to not just go through the motions but enjoy ticking off that hefty list.

Photo Source

The Morning Ritual: Setting the Stage for Success

Think about your usual morning—does it start with a buzz or a snooze? Let’s swap out the groggy phone scroll for something more uplifting. Throw those curtains wide open and let the sunshine flood in. Feels good, right? Now, while you’re basking in that glow, how about getting your usual cup of brew and trying something new, like the best-tasting mushroom coffee you’ve ever tried? It’s smooth, it’s delicious, and it gives you a nice, even energy boost without any jittery side effects. How about trying a different flavor once every week? Just the zing you need to set a positive tone for the day! It also offers a boost to your mental performance.

Create Your Power Phrase

Ever thought about the magic of a few well-chosen words? Let’s craft a motivational mantra that’s all yours, something to whisper when the going gets tough. It could be something like ‘I’ve got this’ or ‘Every challenge teaches me something new.’ Whatever resonates with you, make it your secret weapon against the day’s dragons.

Visualize Your Victory

Here’s a neat trick: spend a few quiet moments every morning just visualizing your day. Not just the tasks but how awesome you’ll feel nailing them. Visualizing isn’t just dreaming—it’s like a rehearsal where you see yourself acing your tasks, one after the other. It’s about building confidence before you’ve even started, and trust me, it’s a game changer.

Break It Down: Little Steps, Big Gains

Looking at a huge task all at once? Yep, that’s daunting. So, let’s slice it up. Break that giant task into smaller, manageable pieces. It’s like turning a mountain back into a molehill. Check off each mini-goal as you go, and let yourself feel great about every win. It’s about celebrating the small stuff on your way to the big achievements.

Reflect, Reward, Repeat

End of the day? Time to take stock. What did you nail? Pat on the back. Maybe unwind with a favorite tune or plan something fun for the weekend. This isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about setting up a cycle of success. Today’s wins pave the way for tomorrow’s motivation.

Fueling Your Fire Daily

Every day’s a new scene in the epic movie of your life. And with the right motivation, even the most ordinary day can be turned into something stellar. Remember, motivation isn’t just a spontaneous burst of energy; it’s a skill you build, a muscle you flex, and every day you’re getting stronger. Let’s keep that motivation roaring, shall we? With each new sunrise, remind yourself that you’ve got what it takes to make today another best day.

Friends, now I want to ask, how are you making the most of your day today? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Let’s face it, bad debt is something that nobody ever wants to get themselves into. You don’t have to be stuck with this bad fortune forever! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and chart a path to send it packing while paving your road to financial freedom. Here’s how you can kickstart your comeback. 

Photo Source

Evaluate And Restructure Your Debts

First things first: what’s the damage? Pull out all your bills and get them in a line—how much, who’s it for, and what’s the interest rate? Seeing everything you owe on one list can be a game-changer. This might sound like a big step, but a credit corp solutions company can offer ways to consolidate your debts into one manageable payment. Imagine swapping several high-interest payments for a single one with a lower rate. More manageable, right? It’s like decluttering your financial closet, and who doesn’t enjoy a good cleanout?

Create A Sustainable Budget

Oh, the dreaded B-word—budget. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be scary. Start tracking where every dollar goes, and I mean everyone. You’ll soon see where you can cut back—a little less dining out, maybe? And boom! You’ve got extra cash to squash that debt. It’s all about making your money work for you, not the other way around. Apps today can do most of the heavy lifting, categorizing your spending in a snap. Pretty handy, right? Think of it as having a financial GPS guiding you through the spending jungle.

Boost Your Income

If trimming your expenses isn’t cutting it, let’s think bigger. Need more cash? Let’s brainstorm. Maybe it’s time to ask for that raise, start a side hustle, or turn a hobby into cash. Every extra penny can be a soldier in your battle against debt. And who knows? That side hustle could turn into your main hustle before you know it! Plus, extra income streams can become new avenues for saving once your debts are cleared.

Focus On High-Interest Debts First

Here’s a nifty trick: tackle the debts with the nastiest interest rates first. Keep up with minimum payments on the others, sure, but hit the high-interest ones hard. This method will be your debt-killing superpower. It stops those big bad debts from growing any bigger, and you’ll save a ton on interest in the long run. Who doesn’t love saving money? By reducing the costliest debts, you’ll feel a significant lift off your financial shoulders.

Monitor And Build Your Credit Score

As you’re paying down those debts, don’t forget to keep an eye on your credit score. Timely payments? Check. Lower balances? Check. All these moves are giving your credit score a nice little boost. Checking your credit report regularly for errors is also a must—think of it as keeping your financial report card in tip-top shape. Services that monitor your credit can alert you to mistakes or fraud, pretty much giving you peace of mind.

Conclusion

So, as you can see, this is a plan to not only ditch debt but to lay a solid foundation for a future where you’re in charge of your money. It’s a journey, sure, but every step forward is a step out of debt and into financial freedom. Stick with these strategies, and you’ll build habits that not only get you out of debt but also help you stay out. 

Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

In a time of constant change, with everything from global climate change to constant and divisive political and religious strife, finding one’s footing in our current society can be difficult. Especially for faith-based reasoning. This is why I am recommending the upcoming film, “God’s Not Dead.” This film, starring David A. R. White (GOD’S NOT DEAD, Evening Shade), Isaiah Washington (Grey’s Anatomy) Dean Cain (Lois & Clark), Samaire Armstrong, (The O.C.), Ray Wise (ROBOCOP), Scott Baio (Happy Days), Charlene Tilton (Dallas), with guest appearances by Governor Mike Huckabee and Newsboys, is currently the most successful faith-based franchise of all time.

Featuring Reverand David Hill (played by David A.R. White), with other familiar characters and a Newsboys cameo, appears in the latest installment of the God’s Not Dead movie series. In this installment, David Hill grapples with this crucial question: Does God still have a place in politics? This revolves around the hotly debated political questions in America today regarding the relevance of Christianity in the public square and the viewing of the government’s duty to stand on perceived biblical values and a vocal minority’s repeated view of their own “fundamental God-given rights” throughout the series.

While more entertaining than philosophical debate, it hosts various quips to explain right-winged talking points of our current political season. While less scholastic and more sensationalized in design, the film references Biblical principles that will resonate with conservative Christians. It’s a clean, family-friendly film that will help you understand the perspective of friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers with conservative leanings this election season.

In this exacting perspective, it’s a film to be enjoyed. Explaining in a non-serious, less-abrasive manner current political and socioeconomic themes often absent in modern political advertisements or commonly streamed, public programming. While not every Christian will agree with the hard-hitting political themes in the movie, with many opposed to the core messages promoted throughout the story, including its overly dramatic messaging, it’s a perspective worth watching with friends and family.

I appreciated that the film’s plot presented a handful of views of God and his Word, and overall Bible teachings throughout the film. While there could have been dozens of more references compiled throughout the film’s script, the portrayal of the Passion, the price for serving Christ, and the perceived need of the suffering as his disciples, is worth viewing and examining from one’s perspective. Gauging the views of this oration and implied modern political aspirations of Scripture-including Matthew 5:10–12, John 15:18–20, 2 Timothy 3:10–13, and 1 Peter 4:12–14.

The movie’s central plot largely centers around the debate over preserving religious freedom, the “separation of church and state.” While I as an attorney and writer didn’t agree line-for-line with the plot, I could take away sincerity in this manuscript as a whole. Especially in the opening scene, a powerful scene seeking to draw in the audience’s emotions regarding these very issues. That, even for me, I was able to film utility in these scenes of the movie.

As coverage of the Arkansas congressional incumbent, Rick West, unexpectedly dying of a heart attack before election day. His opponent, Senator Kane (played by Ray Wise), has a press conference where he’s questioned regarding the restriction of religious freedoms. Then, focusing audiences on the film’s distinct plotline by showing old clips of previous presidents Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy speeches on fighting for our freedoms and the importance of keeping America as one nation under God, footage of churches closing during the Covid pandemic, showcasing secularists rallies, and a child checking the “Atheist” box on a piece of paper as his professed religion. All formulations of why voting conservatively will help push America forward.

Finally, transitions to a scene where the story’s antagonist is confronted with news concerning a women’s center that is closing due to public spacing being used by women in transition as a haven for Bible studies. Where a comparison is made between modern American political leanings and the Chinese government blaming all nation’s economic and social pressures on religiosity. Focusing less on decades of the nation’s humanitarian cruelties, the repression in Xinjiang, arbitrary arrests, the forced labor of the Uyghurs, the egregious assault on Hong Kong’s autonomy, the barbaric restriction of Tibetan citizenry, restricting vital medical pathologies, and the timely, life-saving information of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, or the cultural stifling of Chinese critics, authors, athletes, and artists. Instead, focusing on the persecution of Christians in China. Implying that the same religious and socioeconomic depravity could soon happen, here, in America, if voting for heavy-handed Christian-focused rights is not maintained.

Later in the film, during a podcast debate, the focus of the film turns to voting. Reinforced by a scene that depicts struggles of race, economic instability, and lost hope in the future of the nation. One in which 40 million Christians won’t vote in Federal elections, with another 15 million refusing to be registered. The film’s central focus became the notion that “Political campaigns set the example for Christian involvement in the civic square.” In other words, if Christians are not speaking up for their rights, not the rights of fellow Americans, they will be taken away.”

The film’s central premise, that of “American Church-Going Christians” being demonized due to their belief system in God, prayer, or creationism is unfounded. That secularists have weaponized this Constitutionalist separation to eradicate Christianity from all public squares, replacing it with secular humanism is both egregious and unfounded, the film does beg the overall question, “Why Americans cannot engage in political or religious discussion without hate-filled, theocratic debate?” A message I will ponder openly throughout the remainder of this current political season. The internal dialogue over my relation to naturalism and nationalism, respectfully as an American, woman, or Christian. I hope you will do the same, too.

This film is engaging with a captivating story and a renowned cast that keeps the whole family entertained. Allowing friends and families to discuss the current political climate with courage. Most importantly, this film demonstrates Christians, in politics and life, should be optimistic, excited, and hopeful about the future. Friends, buy tickets today to see God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust in theaters starting September 12th! You can also view the trailer, here, or buy tickets to this film, here.

Also, the good people at Momentum Publishing are offering one Theladyprefers2save.com reader the chance to win a $10.00 Amazon gift card. To enter, please leave a comment on this post letting me know why you would most want to see this film. Please note, that this giveaway is regulated; those winning and commenting on multiple websites, and winning, will be eliminated from entry. All gift cards will be delivered directly from Momentum Publishing to this giveaway’s winner. This giveaway ends on September 20, 2024, at 11:59 P.M. CST. Good luck to all entries!

Friends, now I want to ask, why do you most want to view the film, “God’s Not Dead: In God, We Trust,” in theatres starting September 12, 2024? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust on Social Media:

Meta Instagram X YouTube

Planning out your finances is a massive help to many people. You know what direction you’re headed in, you can give yourself a goal, and you can generally not panic about the amount of money that you have or need. Once you know what your plan for your financial future is, it’s like a weight is lifted off of your shoulders, and a whole load of stress can dissipate. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at how you can do this, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Photo Source

Being Eco-Friendly Helps You Save Money

First, being eco-friendly can help you to save money. It will save you money on your electric bill, it can save you money on your food bill, and you can even look into sustainable end-of-life options that are also cheaper than the traditional options a lot of the time. The state of the planet is a big concern right now, so being more eco-friendly is something that you should already be looking into anyway if you have not already done so. But, if you needed a little bit more of an incentive, then this is certainly a great one.

Saving Where You Can Gives You Security

Saving as much money as you can will give you a sense of security that you do not have otherwise. Experts recommend that you try to save enough for two months of bills and payments that you need to make so that you are not completely in the lurch if something goes wrong. For example, if you lost your job for whatever reason, then you need to still be able to live in the meantime while you are looking for more work. 

If you have these savings, it gives you the security that you need to know you are not going to struggle when things get tough. You always have that to fall back on, and that’s important.

Budgeting Properly Allows You Peace Of Mind

Finally, if you budget properly, then you have peace of mind that everything is paid, and that you’re not going to go into debt. Going into debt is one of the worst things that you can do to yourself, and should never be done if there is any alternative option. Having said that, we do understand that there are times when you cannot avoid it. But, if you budget to the best of your ability and keep within your means, this is the best way to give yourself peace of mind now and in the future.

At the end of the day, the more of a plan that you have in place, the better you are going to feel. We understand that some people don’t like to plan their lives out and that they struggle when it comes to things like this, but it is for the best. The more that you plan and the more solid the plan you come up with, the better you are going to feel. At the very least, you know everything is taken care of financially, and you don’t have to worry about it.

Friends, how are you planning for your financial future? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.

When building a wardrobe that exudes confidence, sophistication, and practicality, the importance of investing in high-quality men’s shoes cannot be overstated. While it might seem tempting to go for the most budget-friendly options, there are compelling reasons why investing in premium footwear is worthwhile.

1. Longevity and Durability

One of the most significant benefits of investing in quality shoes is their durability. High-end shoes are crafted from superior materials, such as full-grain leather or premium suede, which are more resistant to wear and tear than their cheaper counterparts. The construction methods used in quality shoes, such as Goodyear welting or Blake stitching, ensure that the shoe’s sole is securely attached and can be replaced if necessary. This means that while you might pay more upfront, these shoes can last for years, making them a better long-term investment. In addition to considering well-known premium brands, you might explore boutique options like burrowsandhare.co.uk, which offers a curated selection of high-quality men’s shoes that combine craftsmanship with contemporary style.

2. Comfort and Support

Quality shoes are designed with comfort in mind. Premium footwear brands invest in advanced technologies and materials to enhance the comfort of their shoes. Features such as cushioned insoles, ergonomic designs, and moisture-wicking linings contribute to a more comfortable walking experience. Properly constructed shoes provide better arch support and reduce the risk of foot pain or injury, which is particularly important if you spend long hours on your feet. In contrast, cheaper shoes often lack the necessary support and cushioning, leading to discomfort and potential health issues over time.

3. Enhanced Style and Versatility

High-quality shoes often come with a timeless design and superior craftsmanship that can elevate any outfit. Whether it’s a classic pair of Oxfords, sleek loafers, or stylish brogues, investing in well-made shoes means you’re getting a product that looks polished and refined. Quality shoes often have a better fit and finish, with attention to details such as stitching, color, and texture. This level of craftsmanship not only enhances your overall appearance but also adds a touch of sophistication and confidence to your look. Versatile designs ensure that these shoes can be paired with various outfits, from formal business attire to casual weekend wear.

4. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

While the initial cost of high-quality shoes may seem high, they are often more cost-effective in the long run. Due to their durability and timeless style, you will likely find yourself needing to replace them less frequently compared to cheaper, lower-quality options. In addition, many premium shoes can be refurbished or repaired, which extends their lifespan even further. By investing in a few well-made pairs, you can save money over time and avoid the cycle of buying and discarding inexpensive shoes.

5. Ethical and Sustainable Choices

Many high-end footwear brands are committed to ethical practices and sustainability. Investing in quality shoes often means supporting companies that prioritize fair labor practices, environmental responsibility, and animal welfare. These brands are more likely to use eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, which can align with your values and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.

6. Confidence and Self-Esteem

Wearing well-crafted, stylish shoes can have a significant impact on your self-esteem and confidence. When you know your shoes look good and feel comfortable, you carry yourself with greater assurance. This boost in confidence can positively affect various aspects of your life, from your professional interactions to your social engagements.

Thanks to Our Daily Bread Ministries for providing a sample of their product for review. Opinions are 100% my own and are not influenced by compensation.

Today’s world can be cold and uncanny. Leaving many to seek out faithfulness through the lives of others-especially matriarchs of the Bible. Women who understand how your identity in faith can strengthen your relationship within the world. Especially in our modern political climate, now’s the perfect time to invest in what matters most to you in this world with the Unshakable Moxie video series, an episodic video series. Inviting believers to discover what a life of resilient faith is.

Unshakable Moxie: Growing a Resilient Faith, a 6-Session Women’s Bible Study, featuring Video Access, from Our Daily Bread, who for more than eight decades has been committed to nurturing a lifelong relationship for God’s daughters, transformed by a relationship with God‘s son, Jesus. Through daily devotions, podcasts, videos, and series to create a life-changing understanding of the word. With a mission of worldwide Biblical engagement and sound, scriptural teaching to create lifelong, lasting change in the everyday lives of others with God’s Word and the faith journeys of His children.

Hosted by Toni Collier (Broken Crayons Still Color) and Moriah Smallbone (The Chosen), is a video series features Lina AbuJamra, Ruth Chou Simons, Katie Lewis, Dr. Bernice King, and Joni Eareckson Tada. The perfect pairing of worship materials and video series, helping women, like you, and me, to strengthen their own lives of resilient faith.

This study, including a beautiful hardcover Prayer Journal and inspirational cards that share Scripture and powerful quotes from the series, explores biblical lessons around the themes posed in each episode. Hosts Moriah Smallbone and Toni Collier dive deeply into tough, modern, poignant topics including forgiveness, disillusionment, hardships, and the effects of personal growth on their faith during challenging circumstances.

What participants will gain in fellowship with Unshakable Moxie and package:

1. Insight into how women, like yourself, facing real painful struggles have persisted in their strength.
2. Encouragement in how God’s diligent actions in your own lives,
3. A sense of accomplishment in examining your walk of faith.

This 6-part docuseries and accompanying Bible Study invites readers to embark on a study of recognizing the powerful innermost traits of success from ourselves and other notable women of God. Through our greatest weaknesses to our utmost pinnacles of strength. Moments that allow us all to write out our narrative of Unshakable Moxie.

Leaving readers to key in on important inner questions, including what a woman of moxie is, how dynamic can we each be in our narratives, and the personal path of developing our respective spiritual and actualized journies, online and in our own lives.

I particularly enjoyed episode three of the series, dealing with the accompanying book and guided meditation and materials. Helping each of us go into our next season of gratitude with grace, strength, and consumable poise. Watch the series now and see how our creator can turn your biggest fears into opportunities to develop resounding faith. Be sure to watch the full series now, here. You can also order your copy of Unshakable Moxie, here.

Also, enter to win a personal copy Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and a $20.00 Amazon.com Giftcard, including Unshakable Moxie Bible Study, with QR code access to the video series, Unshakable Moxie Prayer Journal, and Unshakable Moxie Scripture & Encouragement Cards Pack.

Please note: All entries will be verified, duplicate entries on multiple sites will be disqualified, “Hope to see this movie”-type answers, only, will be disqualified, and this giveaway is limited to United States winners, only. Winners will be gifted their Unshakable Moxie Study Pack and $20 Amazon Gift Card, prizes directly from Momentum Publishers within a season. All entries will be personally verified, thank you and good luck!

To enter, readers must:

1. Follow Our Daily Bread Ministries and God Hears Her on Facebook, Facebook, Instagram, and Instagram.

2. Repost and Share the giveaway with the hashtag #unshakablemoxie.

3. For a bonus entry, in addition to all of the above-mentioned sign-ups for this giveaway, be sure to subscribe to God Hears Her emails. 

​​Friends, why do you most want to watch Unshakable Moxie? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.