Diary of an Anonymous Canadian Girl

To My Dear Readers....

2011-01-13T10:05:00.000-05:00

Someone has figured out who I am. I do appreciate her tact for not publically outing me on the blog, however, as I've said before, when it's no longer anonymous, I'm out for the count.

And with a heavy heart, I have decided to shut down this blog as of tomorrow.

I will continue to read and follow you all in hopes of joining your journies and helping mine along the way.

Thanks for a great year. I love you all.

In the meantime, I will leave my email open for a little longer if you'd like to chat : anonymouscanadiangirl {at}gmail {dot} com.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

The 'Perks' of Loyalty Programs.

2010-12-20T15:57:00.001-05:00

In my {humble} opinion, it seems as though there are twodistinct schools of thought on this: yay or nay, no ambiguity.

I personally refuse to pay for loyalty programs. For instance, my Body Shop membership whichwould normally be $10/year costs me nothing if I use the card 3 or 4 times ayear {which I do}. I wouldn’t pay the$10 at the store – you want me to PAY YOU to come and shop in your store? Two words for you: starts with F and endswith F!

One such program whose merits I was unsure of was PetSmart’sPet Perks program. This program doesn’tcost anything, but I wasn’t told an exact percentage of savings, nor exactlywhat I was to get out of being a member. I was in PetSmart doing some doggie Christmas shopping {yeah, I dress mydog up…don’t judge} and remembered I was a member. Figuring my bill would be high because of the8 things I bought, which included doggie toothpaste and various items ofclothing and toys, I handed over my Pet Perks card thinking nothing of it. Low and behold, that card entitled me to a40% savings.

Yes, you read that right: 40%. My bill went to $50.73 after tax to$30.40. I can’t believe this. I didn’t have to pay for it and just forpatronizing your store, I get tremendous savings on things my dog ~~needs~~ wantsanyway.

Thank you PetSmart. Perhaps other loyalty programs can take the hint and learn what itreally means to attract and maintain a loyal customer base.

Feel freezies to share your loyalty stories {good or bad}below. I’m sure we barganistas {orbargainistos…whatevs you fancy} would love to hear about it!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Crocs. What a crock.

2010-12-12T09:00:00.001-05:00

{I love a good pun in the morning, don't you?}

Comfort. That’s whatwe all associate with Crocs, right? NOT.{*insert Borat accent here* }

I recently purchased {and returned} a pair of ‘dress Crocs’,which was in direct violation of any and all fashion rules I have. However, Iwas desperate for a comfortable, yet moderatelyattractive alternative to running shoes for my walk to work. Whilest browsing about, I came across thesepuppies:

{click for larger...if you want}

BAD. DO NOT BUYTHEM. Comfort my ass! These not only gave me blisters, but gave offa farting sound while I walked. I fartenough as it is. I don’t need my feetdoing it too!

For those of you that swear by Crocs {and I hope don’t wearthe ones with the big holes that attempt to look like clogs out of the house},I commend you and congratulate you on your comfort. I, however, will never wear them. Alas, I’d much rather look good and befart-free while getting blisters on my toes!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Biz Etiquette/Budge Question.

2010-12-09T10:22:00.000-05:00

Krystal over at Give Me Back My Five Bucks posted an interesting question on her Twitter the other day: “Do u always give when ppl in the office arecollecting $$ for wedding/retirement/bday/baby present? What if it's forsomeone u don't know?”.

This is something that I’m unsureof where the proper ‘etiquette’ lies. What if you’re on a budget like me? What if you don’t really know the person and wouldn’t buy a giftotherwise? What if you simply don’t likehim or her? {so what, I’m a bitch. Deal with it…}

I always feel judged when going around to do this. Now that I’ve switched to a smaller company,I don’t think it’ll be as big of an issue {that, and I’m far happier here andlove everyone I work with…well almost everyone…}. However, given that I’m still early on in mycareer, and though I don’t plan on leaving, you never know where life will takeyou, so I thought I’d go here to my public forum and ask what the properetiquette would be.

How much is proper to give? Should you feel obliged to ALWAYS contribute, or is it fair tojust reserve the dollaz for those you like/are close with/are your boss?

Eff. So many questions.

I’m seriously stumped. Readers - throw me a bone please in thecomments below!

Follow Krystal’s Twitter here.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

No Spend November.

2010-12-08T09:54:00.000-05:00

I finally hit my no spend goal!!! Woot woot!!

14/12 for MoNovember.

Too bad that with Christmas coming, it's going to be one spendy December!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

November Numbers.

2010-12-03T09:39:00.000-05:00

If you've been reading for a month or so, you'll remember from this post that I've been tracking all spending categories for the month of November. I did some crunching yesterday, and here's what it looks like:

...perhaps I should quit drinking. NEVER! I loves me some wine.

It's important to note that the $169 in the clothes/gifts category was for 2 gorgeous dresses for my bday/Christmas parties. I have very few hot little dresses, so this was a treat to myself. The transportation portion of my budget is hefty this month due to rising gas prices, and the 'beauty' category the same simply because I needed a hair-doing this month.

I'm $22.41 in the red over my $400 budget. I'm going to list a pair of sunglasses {Armani...big and round, so totes in style but too wide for my skinny, long face} on Kijiji/Craigslist to see if I can make up the shortfall.

Thank you all for your comments on my last post regarding moneyville.ca. I'm glad as many of you find certain posts as useless as I do!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Reading Moneyville.ca.

2010-11-28T14:17:00.001-05:00

How many of you have been reading the new moneyville.ca siteposted by the Toronto Star? I knowKrystal over @ Give Me Back My Five Bucks posts on the blog there frequently,however I tend to think she’s one of the few there with the experience andknow-how to post insightful blogs that people can utilize and learn from.

I’m not trying to negate the fact that moms who post don’tknow how to save a buck or stretch a family budget, I’m just simply noting thattheir tips and experience doesn’t really relate to the younger, internet andblog saavy readership that moneyville.ca attempts to capture.

Let’s dissect this post here from Adam Goodman. Have a read thru, and I’ll bet you’re hardpressed to find any innovation whatsoever, or anything of true merit in hispost. It’s the same old dribble that we’reused to hearing.

The post starts with the title ‘How I Saved $7,000Painlessly’. Intriguing, no? Who wouldn’t like a list of ways to save$7,000 without cramping their style toomuch? WRONG. The premise of his whole post for ‘painlessly’saving $7,000 is this: you should pay yourself first before paying yourdebts.

Hrm? Come again now? He says in one of the last bits of his postthat his savings account is $7,000. However, he had student debt when he first graduated which he struggledto pay off. Now, I don’t know about you,but I’d much rather maintain a small emergency fund and use any excess ‘reserves’to pay down that debt. Unless my savingsaccount has 12% interest, it’s not worth the trade-off. That’s a few thousand {or even hundred…}dollars that could have been muchbetter utilized.

He says it was painless to save the $7,000, but I think thatwhen you muse over debt and are up at night thinking about money issues, itentirely negates the pain.

{Disclaimer: I’m all for an emergency fund, however I sure wasn’tsocking away $100 per month when I was in major debt and wanted to getout. I did it in small increments andstopped at $1,000.}

Let’s look at an example:

Using what Mr. Goodman professes, we’d be saving $100 permonth for a year. With a simplecalculation of compound interest, that means we’d be making roughly $188 peryear and growing our deposit to a mere $288. I’m out of debt now, so $188 is great, but when I had big debts to pay,that $188 would’ve gone a long way! It’s not much when you consider a debt of$5,000 or more, where the monthly interest amounts to about half that totalyearly savings.

For example, let’s take a calculation of someone who’d be inroughly $7,000 debt and it will take almost a year to pay off:

Without the $288 the debt payoffwould look somewhat as follows, using a roughly 7.5% interest rate on the debtand it would be paid off at the beginning of June:

With the $288 {applied to thelast payment, considering it would take roughly a year to compound the interest– I know, I know, it’s JUST an illustration of a point, not what would bereally earned in the time frame}, the debt is cleared almost an entire monthearlier. And this is withoutconsideration of any snowballed funds towards the debt. To me being clear of that debt a monthearlier means far more than the $288 opportunity cost:

Moral of thestory: Adam Goodman, your ~~ideas~~ idea sucks. Congratulations for being out of studentdebt. But if you want to expand your horizonsa little, think outside the box and create real savings tips. Most normal people who are struggling onlimited incomes and wanting to payoff debt can think of way better things to dowith $100 per month. Moneyville.ca –perhaps you should reconsider who you allow to blog on your site {not you,Krystal – you’re great} and ensure the blog is a real PF blog and not just somesite where anyone with a savings account and a computer can post.

Feel free to share your opinions in the comments below. But note, please, that any hateful comments will not be approved :)

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Monthly Spending Category Challenge: Update #2.

2010-11-25T12:00:00.001-05:00

In this post here, I provided an update on CategorizeNovember. I said I’d have money for mytrip fund. FAIL! I got $50 from grandma. That’s it! I guess I can’tcomplain; that’s $50 more than I had before, and my parents aren’t obligated topurchase me a gift, since paying for the majority of my wedding is gift enough.

However, I had really hoped to have more to put in the tripfund! Oh well, just looks like it’sgoing to involve me scrimping more to save enough for one last trip before we’rea married couple. Sounds so weird. Oh emmm geee!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Christmas Gifts. Oy!

2010-11-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

I think I’m organized for ~~Christmas~~ Christmukah. I’ve got my Dad and Fiancée’s Dad completelydone, and am halfway done the Future Mother in Law. All that’s left are my Mom, Sister and Fiancée.The fiancée will be splitting the cost of some gifts with me, so thatalleviates the dolla pressure a little for me!

The budget? It’sunder $400 so far, and I’m going to give myself that limit. This includes stockings for Mom and fiancée –but Dad will split the cost of some of Mom’s gifts with me as he always does{that’s the trade-off…I do all the shopping!}.

I think this budget is realistic, though it may seem alittle high, it essentially allows me to spend almost $60 each {and that’s with sharing of the cost, so it’llactually be more in monetary value}. Bethat as it may, the cost isn’t always what should be considered first in thegift. I think this year I’ve managed tocreate {read = make} gifts and purchase gifts that people will truly like, allthe while saving some pennies.

I will update more on the Christmukah sitch as it develops.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Dying to be Thin Again.

2010-11-23T11:21:00.000-05:00

I’ve been reading Carla’s blog over @ My ½ Dozen Daily. She’s a little shorter than me, and 117lbs. That’s where I’d like to be. I’m currently 135, and weight has been astruggle my ENTIRE life. I look back atpics of me when I was in uni, just over 2.5 years ago, and I was crazy thin andwillowy. What the eff has happened tome?

My brain tells me I’m not fat – I’m 5’9” {5’10” on a goodday} and 135 lbs. That’s on the cusp ofunderweight. But I’m dying to bethinner. I’ve battled eating disordersin the past, and it seems like they’re about to show their ugly headsagain.

I need some tips to lose weight. I exercise, I eat right, but don’t want tosacrifice my social life or mental health in the process.

Tips….please…..

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl
.

I'm Old.

2010-11-16T10:26:00.000-05:00

Well, it's official. I'm 25 today. I feel so old. Krystal over @ Give Me Back My Five Bucks did a post on feeling older than your age. You can link to it here.

I totally agree with everything she says. I'm often tired by 10pm, I feel like I'm no longer a kid, and I sometimes wish I had my care-free high school days back. Not only am I engaged, but I'm gainfully employed full time, own my own home, and pay all of my own bills without help from the parentals {you'd be surprised JUST how many of my friends get help from their parents...still...despite owning a home....}. I guess it's good to be grown up and totally self-sufficient at my {relatively} young age. I live my life on a budget, pay down bills as soon as they arrive, and try to be frugal without sacrificing the good things in my life. I guess that's all part of growing up, eh?! {yeah, it's my birthday and I'm Canadian. I'll say 'eh' if I want to!}

{srsly...this dog's face pretty much sums up how I feel turning 25}

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

HAPPY BLOGIVERSARY TO MOI!

2010-11-10T00:02:00.000-05:00

To all of my dear readers,

You are all the reason I keep posting. Thank you.

As I look back and go thru the posts from a year ago today, I see such a juxtaposition in my own personality and sense of self from what lies here in front of me right now. I didn't know who I was, where I was going, or where I wanted to be, for that matter. I was lost - for lack of a better term. A lot has happened in the past year and has made me who I am today. I can stand here and say that I am finally happy. I've waited 25 24.89 years for this and it's finally here. I couldn't have done it without the support of my dear readers.

Here's to many more blog posts and to coming leaps and bounds from where I was one year ago today.

I love you all.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Category Challenge: Update.

2010-11-09T09:21:00.001-05:00

Epic fail! Or win...depends on how you look at it. I've not been spending much at all. I've only bought things I need so far, like groceries, toiletries, leotards, and medications! I guess it's a win...but so much for my tracking!

My birthday is coming up, so I hope to have some dolla billz to put towards my 'trip' fund. The bf fiancee and I are planning a sort of a last minute trip {to save $$$$} with another couple and are hoping to go in the New Year and save what's left of our sanity after a long, Canadian winter. The total budge there should be roughly $600 and we're hoping to get a 4 star or better hotel about 2 weeks before we leave. Suggestions are welcome!!

Let's hope I start spending a little cash to track it...or not.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

PS
Tomorrow is my blogiversary! Can you believe it? A year of blogging. Whoda thunk it?

Monthly Spending Category Challenge.

2010-11-01T07:00:00.001-04:00

This month, I am going to challenge myself to categorize each expenditure I make and to identify discernable, concrete ways to cut down on my cash out flows.

It's going to take determination and really nit-picky notes on my budget tracker, but I think it'll be a cool exercise to really identify my indulgences. It'll be sort of a wants vs. needs exercise. I've obtained my inspiration from Jesse's post {click the link to the right to go to it}, whose blog is fantastic and entitled Jessie's Money and Jordan's Too .

Hers is more of a monthly budget, and mine will be too. However, she's far more diligent than I and keeps very accurate track every month like that! Let's hope this helps me get back on the wagon.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Is Paying Off Debt an "Emergency"?

2010-10-29T09:00:00.000-04:00

Knowing that I'm a bit of a PF nerd, a friend recently posed a question to me: "should I use my $1,000 e-fund to pay off some small debt?".

This got me thinking - is debt really an emergency? Is your irresponsibility {or not - could be different circumstances} really considered to be an emergency of sorts?

I told her that it could go 1 of 2 ways - if it was due to an emergency, yes, take the $1,000. If it wasn't and you're unsure about your future income, then don't touch it. I'm going to work with her to get the money reduced in a few months - right now, it's at roughly $7k, so it's a pittance comparatively speaking. She hasn't a foggy clue what a budget is, nor how to save or that she should be packing away a bit for retirement already.

This is my first 'client' for lack of a better term {disclaimer: I am NOT a financial advisor; I'm just helping a chica out!}. Let's hope this goes well. I'm going to take a list of ways to save money, use my weekly budget tracker, and make her read Gail's blog daily!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

News.

2010-10-27T09:18:00.000-04:00

Big news. The BFproposed!! WOOOOO HOOO! I’m engaged.

This is scary, and exciting, and a huge surprise.

All I can think about is the money; where can I save withoutaffecting the time my guests have at the wedding? I’ve been to a few weddings where it’sblatantly obvious where the money was skimped and where it wasn’t. I’ve also been to weddings where guests wereasked to do things like contribute to the bride and groom’s honeymoon insteadof gifts – this is not on the list for us, as I think it’s tacky for us to askpeople to send US on a trip when it may have been a year or more since they’vespent money on a trip for themselves.

Here are a few ways I’ve come up with to save:

- designer sample sale dress – I can get one for $500 orless {none of this Say Yes to the Dress over priced shizz for me….I’m a size 2…Ican fit into the mannequin stuff!}

- make my own favours

- make my own place cards and menus

- use fake flowers in the centerpieces

- get a friend to do the engagement pics {which, I’m noteven 100% sure I want yet!}

- make my own invites

- hire a friend to be the DJ

- ask friends to volunteer services instead of a gift –ie. A makeup artist or hairdresser friend

There’s only one problem: I’m not crafty. Perhaps gettingthings made on Etsy.com will be a better bet!

Any tips from you married readers out there? How can I save without looking cheap?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

This will NOT turn into a wedding blog. I will NOT be bridezilla. If you see that happening, please tell me in the comments. I love you all and want you to enjoy my blog!

Getting Back on the Wagon.

2010-10-26T11:31:00.000-04:00

Thanks, Krystal for your tip {you can see her comment in a previous post}.

I’ve gone back to ye ol’ budge and I’m working on gettingback on the decreased spending wagon. Instead ofdoing it weekly tho, I’m going to be doing just a monthly flat $600 {I haz gasnow to pay for!}, and tracking monthly spending with receipts stapled to theexpense list.

I’m still going to go for 12 ‘no spend’ days a month. However, I know I won’t make it this monthsince I’ve had a ton to do with the new job, car etc. I will be starting my monthly updates inNovember.

I have some money to pay off from the purchase of the carand savings to replenish {used in my month off work}, so I’ll have to update mymonthly budge once I get a picture of how my spending pattern is going to go.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

New Job.

2010-10-15T12:19:00.003-04:00

I've started my new job this week. I'm loving it so far, but am totes finding it difficult to live on the reduced budge that's resulted from my month off.

I went a little off the bandwagon and now I have to get myself back in gear - NYC just does that to you!

Eff.

How do you guys get back on track? I'm at a loss this time. I can't really go to cash only, and find it difficult to keep any and all receipts. What gives? Am I that out of it that I can't manage my own finances?

Help!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Citibank Platinum Enrich is Gonzo. Officialz.

2010-10-08T20:49:00.000-04:00

I gave up a ring to Citibank today just to inquire as to when the CIBC takeover would be effected. The kind and knowledgable attendant on the phone informed me that CIBC has only purchased some of Citibank's Mastercard portfolio, and that my Enrich Platinum was part of that takeover.

I will be issued a cheque for the cash portion {so as not to lose it}, and then re-issued a card with CIBC branding. Um...yeah. I'm on the hunt for a new Mastercard. I highly doubt that the same perks as the Platinum Enrich will be upheld when CIBC effects it's final takeover, and the lady I spoke with was of the same mindset.

Therefore, I'm going to begin my foray, yet again, into the world of mastercards with perks. I like to have 1 of each - visa, mastercard and amex. Since my visa is Aeroplan points and I'll be using the mastercard strictly for my business and gas expenses, I ~~need~~ would like something that offers a similar cashback perk to the Platinum Enrich.

I've narrowed my search to the cards as follows:

- MBNA Smartcash
- Capital One
- BMO

Any suggestions? I'm leaning towards one of the first two, and selecting one with cashback.

Thoughts? Please comment :)

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

I'm BAAAACKKKK....

2010-10-07T08:49:00.000-04:00

Did you all miss me?? Ha. I know that was a resounding yes! *lolz*

I had a fantastic time in NYC. I'd forgotten how much I truly missed that place; despite living in a somewhat thriving metropolis, it's still my favourite place on earth.

Given that the bf was working all day every day, I had a lot of time to kill. I found some super cool stuff to do {besides shopping...which I did lots of} that was cheap or free. One of my favourite things to do was sit outside the NY Public Library {think SATC - Carrie's almost wedding} with a Starbucks and people watch, or do the same in Times Square. I could go on for hours.

Instead of doing that, I will give you all some NYC picture porn. You're welcome.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Oh PS!

Since this is a PF blog and all, I have to throw some PF shiznat out there: TD Bank now has a HUGE presence in NYC {and according to them, will be doing so in other States in the near future}. I was able to withdraw US funds from my Canadian account WITHOUT a fee. Can you believe it? Go TD!

Separating Business from Personal.

2010-09-29T15:00:00.000-04:00

Now that I'm going to be going into this new job, it's imperative that I separate my business expenses from my personal.

I've got a Citi cashback mastercard that I think would be perfect to use. That way, I get a little something back for my business expenditures. This is just such a simple practice that so few people do. This way, I am able to know what is a personal budget item apart from what will be a business budget item that will be reimbursable.

I think that it would be so easy to get myself caught up in the payoff of my own personal visa {despite the incentive of CRAZY Aeroplan points from business expenses} that I would drive myself crazy spending my personal $$$ to pay back things that I don't even owe for.

I'd posted a while ago about CIBC taking over Citi's mastercard book of business, so I wonder if I'll get that cashback feature still once the deal goes thru in October. If I don't, I'll just have to use my Aerogold visa, I guess, or use my backup TD Rebate Rewards.

How do you separate business from personal expenses?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

*Canadian Girl's Currently Loving: Riding Boots.

2010-09-27T13:50:00.000-04:00

To me, the ultimate in chic, old money and class lies in the classic riding boot {ok, so Lacoste and Hunter boots too, but I digress...}. I don't yet own a pair, and have been lusting after a pair for oh, about 6 seasons now. I'm more than convinced that they won't go out of style, but I'm just not sure how much I'm willing to spend. I'd love a long lasting, leather pair, but those are going to run me upwards of $300 I would imagine {and from what I've observed}. So, in the meantime to help me make my decision, I'm keeping a running list here. I would tend to choose brown leather, as that's what I wear more of. Nevertheless, you could pick any of these in black and they would STILL look stunning.

These are some amazeballs riding boots that I've found at varying pricepoints. I lust. Eff. I need a pair:

{Gucci boots. Link here on gucci.com. $1,535. Out of price range. But gorge. }

{Cole Haan boots. A little closer to budget at $498. They also have Nike Air. Comes in black too.}

{Tory Burch Patterson Riding Boots - via http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/context_chooser.jsp. Pricey at $526, but I so LOVE Tory Burch}

{more from Tory Burch. These are $495 USD, so pricey again, but I would venture that they're crazy comfy. Here via toryburch.com}

The link wouldn't let me post images, but if you click on my link below, it will take you to the Zellers website. PURE by Alfred Sung makes some of the cutest work staples, including shoes and boots, at really reasonable prices. I've bought quite a few myself for work this year! Starting at $39.95, they may be the best option for me!

Zellers - sorry US readers, Zellers is only in Canada. Target may have something similar in their Mossimo line, I believe.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Formspring?

2010-09-25T14:00:00.000-04:00

Would you loves be interested in me setting up a Formspring account?

I'm still interested in keeping this whole blog thing anonymous, but I think it would be a fun way to interact. I would only answer questions that still maintained my anonymity, but let you readers in a little more on me. It would allow for a forum for you guys to perhaps inspire blog posts, or ask PF questions.

Lemme know in the comments below....PLEASE.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Ways to Make More Money.

2010-09-24T09:00:00.002-04:00

I think we all want to make more money, but just don't know how.

I'm trying to find that ONE thing that I can do part time to bring in just an extra $100 per month. Time is a factor for me. I know there isn't something that's just going to make itself money, short of an investment property. However, let's be realistic, I don't have the cashflow for that right now!

Do any of you do something 'on the side' {and by on the side, I mean legal of course! *I kid, I kid*} to make more dollaz?

Even if it's just $100 more per month, I'd be interested to hear about it. Please comment below my loves!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

New York State of Mind.

2010-09-22T13:35:00.000-04:00

Cliche title? You bet. I LOVE THIS CITY!

I'm in Manhattan right now, and am loving it. I feel like Sex and the City...without the Sex. Just the City. Or the ladies for that matter {miss you all my girls!!!}.

I've been here many times in my life, but always find something new and better to do than the last time.

I'm taking tons of ~~profesh~~ pics, so I'll do a post on that when I get back.

Will I do a post on how much I spent? Not likely. Sorry kiddies!!! I'm trying to not blow the budge, but this is way too hard....oy. I may go off the wagon. It'll be so worth it tho!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Princesses.

2010-09-20T08:00:00.007-04:00

*** Vacation alert: I'm in NYC right now {frugal post to follow}, so any delay in comments is due to the fact that it's uber expensive on my Blackberry in the States. Please be easy on me***

In typical PF form, I'm a huge fan of Gail Vaz-Oxlade. She's in her last season of 'Til Debt Do Us Part, but has recently premiered a new show entitled Princess.

{Image from throng.ca}

Have any of you watched it? I know I have and I think it's great. The women that have been profiled so far are exactly my age, and fit my exact definition of a princess. And what's more? I'm just like them...in some ways.

I get my hair done. I like expensive bags. I live on my own. I go out {sometimes}. However, there's one acute difference: I've earned it.

There's a lot to be said for earning your own way and being frugal to get what you want. I get my nails done. That costs $30 a month. However, it comes out of my $400 monthly discretionary spending. I'm a horrific {and I mean horrific} nail biter, so this is {almost} a necessity for me. My hair? I am horrid with the dye bottle, so I pay a little more to have it done. Do I borrow money? NO. I know it's a monthly expense, so I put a little away each month to cover the $180 cost. The bags? I save or I buy used. I don't really buy expensive clothes, except for a few work staples that cost over $60. The rest are from Forever 21. My home? I saved for it and furnished from family freebies and cheap-ass Craigslist furniture, which I've refinished.

These princesses don't know how much they make. They just spend spend spend. I have a budget, and allocate each paycheque to things like discretionary spending, bills and various savings accounts that include retirement. I can look like a Princess, but I'm of the firm belief that being a true Princess goes beyond the appearance.

Some want to call me a Princess? Go for it. I'm also of Jewish heritage {insert any applicable Jewish stereotypes here}. But there's a difference: I've earned it. They haven't.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

The PF Monster: Round 2.

2010-09-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll remember this post here. The bf is slowly becoming a PF monster of my own creation.

This isn't a bad thing per se, but last night's convo really left me wondering:

Bf: "I went down finally to take all the recycling from the move down to the P1 parking lot. Do you know just how many people don't take their empties back to the store?"

Me: "Yeah I know. I guess I'm cheap. A lot of people don't, but that's transit fare or a contribution to your beer if you take some back."

{disclaimer: this is NOT me...it may have been tho in university! I seem to remember our yard looking like this once or twice...... -----------> }

Bf: "Next time I want to go buy beer, I'm going down to the recycling first to see who's left empties. I'm going to take them back and get money for them!"

Me: "I understand your reasoning, honey. But the HOMELESS pick the garbage for empties. Do you really want to be on the same level as the HOMELESS?"

Bf: "Well if I save $4....yeah...."

Look what I've done. So, do you take your empties back for money? I think it's a great way to earn a few bucks for the change jar, or even to fund your next ~~binge~~ party. Speaking of that, I have a closet full to go return right now :)

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

I did it. I QUIT!

2010-09-17T12:24:00.000-04:00

So, just as the title says, I quit my job.

To be perfectly honest, it was easier than I'd thought it would be. I wasn't really all that nervous, and I think it's because I was just SO READY to leave.

I'm off of work until October 12th, which feels great. I feel a little lame-o being unemployed, but technically, since I have a job lined up, I'm not, right?

The new job that I've taken on is going to be amazing. I think I'm going to really have my time to shine and show what I'm made of. At the very least, all my hours of hard work will now pay off in the form of dollaz. The only thing I'm worried about is the transition to 100% sales in year 3. That's a f*kload of pressure, but I think that by then I will have enough of a customer base and skillset to make sure that I surpass the "need to live" budget.

WOO HOO!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Should We Keep a Budget Item for Appearances? That's Just the Way it Is.

2010-09-04T10:21:00.001-04:00

Take a look at Dog’s post here. She brings up a valid point about having to purchase something to keep up her ‘appearance’ among a certain ilk of people. When your read the post, keep in mind that it IS Texas. Things are bigger there!

Regardless of where you’re located, one can argue that there’s always a ‘need’ to fit in to a certain circle, whether it be because of your job, or perhaps the social circle you run with. I watch the Real Housewives series. Yes, I love them. Knock me if you want, but I think they make for great tv. Those ladies are a prime example of keeping up with appearances. In fact, most of the OC ladies are in debt up to their eyeballs and have had homes foreclosed and marriages ended over money, infidelity or other equally tragic things all in the name of appearances. I don’t begrudge them their desire to be ‘elite’. Sometimes, I feel the same pressure.

Where I live, I’m surrounded by young professionals at home and at work. I’m underpaid for the work I do, but keep my discretionary spending to a minimum so I can afford to buy a few nice things, like a watch {I think a nice watch says a lot and makes all outfits look classy and put together} and a bag. I like expensive bags, but can’t afford them unless I scrimp in other areas. I guess you could say that, like Dog, I’m keeping up appearances to a certain degree. Yes, I like designer bags, but I also think that the vast majority of the people I work with have bags of the same calibre, and so I too must join in to fit the bunch.

I think that in today’s society, we should have a budget item, or at least scrimp to buy certain things that help us fit the mould of whatever sect of society to which we fit. If you’re a construction worker, you need your tools and boots. If you’re a banker, you need a nice suit and shoes. That’s just the way it is.

I get those people who say we don’t need to conform. I see where you’re coming from. But perhaps you’ve never had the requirement to fit in with a crowd or ilk of people who could help you better your life. Am I using them? No. But do I need to move up in my job? Yes. Do I need to present a certain image as a woman to do that? Absolutely.

I think that’s the underlying message in Dog’s post: we sometimes need to keep up appearances just to maintain the status quo in a certain high society that may help us engage ourselves to better our future. That’s just the way it is.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

September? Eff.

2010-09-01T01:00:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's the end of the summer already.

WTF dude? My summer has just flown by and I would imagine it has for you too.

Eff. This is just too much; it's almost the fall already. I've spent my summer working at this dead end job which has pretty much stolen my soul. Ouch. And I've studied my arse off for my exams.

The good news: one more exam before the designation is complete. Oh, and fall = my birthday.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Budget Re-Vamp.

2010-08-31T09:57:00.000-04:00

Hi My Loves,

I need your advice: I HAVE to re-vamp the budget.

I’ve been carrying around a tracking sheet that functions much like Gail’s Budget Binder – it’s just a sheet titled ‘Expense Tracking’, with an amount at the top where I note how much I’ve allotted, and a grid to track the date, and a descending amount of what’s left in the hypothetical ‘jar’. This works. I’m not knocking it. It got me out of debt. However, I’m in a different spot now, and need to re-work it to suit me.

Perhaps I can just use one page for all? Or just carry the full cash amount of the week’s budge in my wallet {$100}? W

hat do you all think?

Please share some of your budge tricks with me in the comments below. I’d love to hear about them!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Moving.

2010-08-23T14:31:00.001-04:00

The bf just got a new place. It’s a rental, in the city, and closer to me. I’m excited, really I am. But I sure as hell hope he doesn’t think we’ll be hangin’ all the time. Not that I don’t want to; that’s not the idea. I love being with him, just not all the time. I like that we have two separate lives and come together on weekends. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that this goes as planned.

He’s been fah-reaking out about finances now that he’ll be furnishing, paying bills and renting his own place. So, what did *Canadian Girl do? I had him make a budget. That’s right. All hail the budget! He was able to see what money would be coming in, flowing out, and where he could save still. He’s given himself a budget of $2,000 for “new” things – ie.) furniture, tv, cable/internet set up. And he’s managing to come in under. How? CRAIGSLIST!

By utilizing Craigslist to find someone’s like-new junk and fashion it for himself, we think he’s saved almost a grand on his overall moving costs. He’s taken some decorative items and an old chair, lamp and couch from my parents’ place, my mom is doing his bathroom as a housewarming gift, got a Queen bed new and in the packaging for $40, a stand-up lamp for $10, brand new carpet for $20, and a dresser for $15. He will be using a kitchen table from his sister’s old university apartment, and will be buying new bedding and a new mattress cover. You think it will be a mish-mash, but with a little paint and some imagination, I think we can pull this off. He also got a tv stand yesterday – a floor model – marked from $1,499 to $445. A steal and it’s a gorgeous piece that he will keep.

Whoever said moving had to cost tons?

Mental Health Dayz.

2010-08-06T12:33:00.000-04:00

I'm taking two days off from work.

I hate this job so much that I'm getting to my wits end mentally. I have NEVER in my life taken time off work "just because". I've always had a purpose to taking time off, and this time, there isn't any purpose besides myself. I guess that's as good a reason as any, right?!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

CIBC and Citibank.

2010-08-04T15:32:00.002-04:00

CIBC has recently announced that it’spurchased Citibank’s portfolio of credit cards here in Canada. The purchase, expected to go thru as ofOctober 31^st, is in line with an effort for CIBC to grow itsCanadian core operations.

As a holder of both Citibank and CIBCcards, I can’t help but wonder how I will be affected as a client of bothbanks. I get that this effort isbringing the mass market consumer to CIBC – their current offering of mostlyInfinite cards brings a higher end clientele – but as a financial professional,I fail to see the merit in the acquisition.

RBC is the only other Canadian bank thathas both Mastercard and Visa. However,with the Citibank acquisition, it will make CIBC the largest bank to offer bothand have the largest market share. Buthave they thought about the implications?

Let’s look at it realistically: TheCitibank cards offer perks. That’s oneof their core value propositions. I havethe Citi Platinum Enrich, which offers 1% cash back, and I get a nice cheque inDecember for a little bit back on purchases I would’ve just made anyway. Their Petro card gives points on gas, andtheir Citi Enrich gives cash back as well. Their Sobeys card gives Club Sobeyspoints. Perhaps here they may change itto Aeroplan points {as I currently do with any Sobeys points I get}, which wouldalign that reward with their Aero cards. How is CIBC going to be able to keep offering the same level of service,rewards, and extra benefits as Citibank when the two card selections areamalgamated to one bank?

Perhaps the Citi Enrich Platinum will beconverted to the CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite {ok, did a little research forthat one!}. This would be fine with me,as it gives 2% cash back. However, it’sstill not a Mastercard. I likediversification in my limited credit card portfolio and another visa just won’tdo it.

They may end up losing more customers wholiked the diversity and the fact that Mastercard is accepted worldwide aswell.

What do you think?

No Spend Nightmare.

2010-08-03T12:00:00.001-04:00

Well, it’s just as the title says. Lately, I’ve been a total no-spendnightmare. I’ve been spending like it’sgoing out of style. Have I gone overbudget? Yes, maybe once or twice. Has the overage been drastic? No. Not at all. I guess when you lookat it that way, it’s not all that bad.

Nevertheless, I’m not impressed when I can’tmeet simple goals. This is one goal thatwas an epic fail for sure.

June’s no-spend days: 7/12. That’s 58%. It’s a pass, butbarely.

July looks like it is going to shape up tobe the same. I’m going to try to keep myshiz together for the next couple of days and tie it up, but I highly doubt I’llbe successful.

Maybe I can just make up for it when theweather isn’t so nice and my closet isn’t in such dire need of clothes to fillit!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Visa Emergency Cash?

2010-08-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

While reading one of my PF forums, I came acrossinfo about this Visa Emergency Cash benefit. See this link here.

Visa offers an ‘Emergency Cash’ benefitwhen a card is lost, stolen or damaged. This is something that I serrrrrrrrously didn't know.

WTF dude? Isn’t that just a cash advance?

Iget that the card may have been lost. I get that it's aninconvenience. But if he or she who has lost the card doesn't have asource of cash, doesn't that just strengthen an economical downturn byextending credit to those who can't afford it in the first place? Perhaps you're in a remote location where you haven't any access toyour home accounts; but if it's that remote of a place, you wouldn't beable to use a Visa either. I still don't see the reason.

Notethat the Visa site talks nothing of interest rates, EAR on the advance, or anypotential delivery costs as well. Thisis right stupid and just encourages the credit crisis that caused the veryrecession we’re in! I can’t even believethis and it rots my socks.

Ok. /Rant. But really. Why is this even an option for people? We're just going to have another recession. So much for an economical upswing....

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Forever 21 Faves.

2010-07-30T11:05:00.008-04:00

As in this post here, you all know I LOVEForever 21. I just can’t seem to getenough of their stuff.

I haven’t had much success there in the past,I’ll admit, and find that each store is crazy different in terms of what theycarry.

There are two within driving distance ofwhere I live that seem to have an incredible selection. And, of course, since I’ve recently decidedthat most of my work clothes look as though I’ve purchsed them at Value Village,I’ve decided to update my closet.

Forever 21 has some stylish staples thatdon’t cost an arm and a leg. PERF!

Here are some of the things I picked up:

***I know this shirt looks like a plain jane one, but rest assured, the sleeves pin up to a gorge 3/4 length!***

It may look like I don’t wear pants. Trust me, I do. I’m just hard to fit at almost 6’ tall and asize 1. I have to go on a search forthose too; that’s the next mission. Ialso clearly wear a lot of sweaters. I’mcold. Always.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

RRSPs 'n Shiz.

2010-07-29T15:00:00.001-04:00

I’ve begun saving for retirement.

There, I said it. I’m in my early 20’s and I should be well on my way. Krystal was great. I’ve followed her advice and am just putting away $100 per month. I know it doesn’t seem like much, but know it will add up in the end.

Using this calculator here {yeah, I’m gung-ho TD. Deal with it.}, it says that I’m going to need $362.30 per month to reach a $1,000,000 plus retirement goal. That’s pretty good. I’m going to most def amp up those payments as I approach retirement, but am keeping it low now because of my reduced salary.

Once I start making more money, I’ll increase the percentage of my income going to my RSP. I’m also going to be investing the RSP money in different vehicles; I may hold mutual funds long term, and take some for equities when the market goes back on an upswing.

For those of you who have RRSPs, how is the money invested? Or, how do you plan to invest it?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaaaack.

2010-07-27T09:52:00.002-04:00

I am so sorry to be gone for a month! Can you believe it?

I've had exams, a crazy work schedule, a job hunt, some long weekends away and {as weird as it sounds} the bf takes up tons of time. However, I wouldn't trade it for the world.

The summer has gone by so quickly. I can't even believe it.It's been just gorge here weather-wise, but the humidity has really gotten to my hair. Eff.

But in other news, I'm almost done my designation. If all goes to plan, ONE MORE COURSE!!!!!!!!!Whoop whoop.

I've scheduled some posts for a while coming, so I should be all up and running.

I'm sorry if you've missed me. I know I've sure missed you!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

The PF Monster.

2010-06-26T10:00:00.001-04:00

Guess what? The bf and I have now found a show that we love to watch together: ‘Til Debt Do Us Part. He’s just as enamored with Gail as I am.

Perhaps he has a crush on her? *lolz* In all seriousness, I think I’ve totes transferred the personal finance bug to him.

He’s paid off all his student loans {within less than a year of graduating – stellar if you ask me!}, he’s making a budget to see how much he can realistically afford to move to the city, and is leaving room for Fun, Food, Entertainment and General Savings. I think that I’ve created a monster, in the best way possible.

He’s not a spreadsheet guy, so he’s not quite as organized as I am on that front. But it’s the idea, and the actual physical action of budgeting that counts, right? He doesn’t write down each expenditure he makes like moi, but he keeps track by using his debit card {he somehow has a grandfathered account thru TD whereby he doesn’t pay fees. Eff. I’m jealous}. It’s the same general principle, and if it’s working for him it’s a good thing.

So proud of bf today – this post is in his honour, though he doesn’t have a foggy that I even have a blog!! Once again, it’s the thought that counts, right?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Am I Saving Too Early?

2010-06-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

I was out for lunch today with some work colleagues who are the same age as I am.

As usually happens, we got to talking about our social lives which turned to a discussion {somewhat} about personal finance. The general consencus was this: we’re too young to have savings.

Huh? Really?? I own my own place, work the same hours and make relatively the same wage. I don’t really deny myself many pleasures in life, but live on a budget, and save for big expenditures. How can someone my age not be thinking about the future? Not only am I putting money away for a lump sum mortgage payment, but also for taxes, discretionary spending and even retirement.

The only hole I see there is retirement. I am in my mid-twenties, and hope to have many high-wage earning years ahead of me. I hope to be married in the next 5-10 years, maintain home ownership, and travel a bit. Should I be focusing less $$ on retirement, and more on discretionary spending {which, btw, would be for weddings, gifts, travel, spending $$ etc…}?? Is this too early to start saving for my future? Or is it never too early to do so?

I get that the mortgage and taxes all come with the territory of home-ownership. However, should I look at it as a $100k nest egg, so to speak – and be happy I’m not paying rent, like they are, to live in a home that I couldn’t afford with a lack of savings?

HELP! I don’t know what to do with my $100/ month that I’m saving for retirement.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

This is Getting Serious. Fast.

2010-06-22T14:52:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, I had the privilege of spending the weekend with the bf's fam. I say privilege and mean it. The weekend was enjoyable, and low-key.

It's scaring me. And I mean that too. Every single relationship I've ever had, where I've let myself fall for someone, has ended abruptly and without reason. In the past I've chalked that up to men being idiots. Or, perhaps it's something wrong with me. Either way, I am petrified it's going to happen again. I don't know what to do.

I think the bf has fallen hard for me too. At least, that's what he says. We're about 7 month in, and he's brought up marriage. He ended a 4 year relationship in September, and met me in November. I am trying to logically tell myself that if I were the re-bound chicky, it would long be over. But it just weighs in the back of my mind that I am somehow still THAT girl. What if he's with me for 4 years and decides that he's only had 2 serious relationships? What if he decides that he needs to play the field?

I guess these questions all come up in any relationship; after all, there are people who are married for 30+ years and then break-up. I guess I'm looking for the answers where I'm not going to find any.

I'm falling and I'm falling hard. I don't give love easily, nor do I trust easily. Just when I thought I would never find someone for me, it seems as though I've found that perfect someone who compliments me in all ways and who understands me. I think I'm so afraid to lose that ideal that my fear may cause him to run. I’ve picked fights and searched for reasons to argue, trying to find that reason to distrust him, like I’ve had in relationships before. I’m just so afraid to lose him.

For a *Canadian Girl who’s used to being on her own, this is a scary thought. Yet I’m excited just the same.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Personal Banking. There's an App for That.

2010-06-21T14:52:00.000-04:00

**Review below***

As you all know, I'm a die-hard Blackberry user. In an effort to streamline not only my life, but my personal banking as well, I recently downloaded the TD Canada Trust app for BlackBerry.

Can I say - LOVE IT! At first it didn't get stellar reviews. However, I think that they've worked out some kinks, and have made it much more user-friendly with an interface as closely mirrored to their EasyWeb online banking as possible. It is not simply a wap site, or even a link to the Blackberry browser and then to your TD EasyWeb account; it's an app that links directly to the TD BlackBerry site.

I am able to check ALL accounts {Chequing, Savings, US and Visa, as well as Mortgage}, pay bills, transfer dollaz and even do interac money transfers. Now, to be perfectly honest, I don't know that I will use it all the time. But I do know that it will come in handy in a pinch, when I need to know what's in my account, or to make a payment that I've somehow missed or have somehow under-made.

How many of you BlackBerriers {iPhoners....you have no business here....*lolz I kid, I kid*} have tried this and love it, or hate it? Comment below, puhlease.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Workin' On My Fitness.

2010-06-16T20:37:00.000-04:00

Since I'm so uber stressed at work, I've been going to the gym like a mad-woman. I'm not trying to lose weight, but am using the gym as a method of stress management.

I take my gym-ish clothes to work, and force myself to go on my way home {my condo building has a crazy ass gym, so I just go there fo' free}, so that I don' t have the excuse of sitting on my butt at home, cuddling with the pup and then not budging my ass off the couch all night.

It's working! Not only do I feel better, but I'm lookin' damn fine too! {haha...no more *Canadian Girl, it's *Conceited Girl now...LOLZ} I wish I'd gotten this into fitness earlier. I used to work out 24/7 in high school and uni, but lost it once I ventured into the 'real' world. My body craves exercise.

I'm always looking for new ways to use the weight machines tho. Any suggestions and/or sites with cool info? Lemme know!

This is the doggie version of me. No joke. --------------->

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

New Job {Let's Hope}.

2010-06-14T10:00:00.002-04:00

I believe I'd briefly mentioned my somewhat disheartening performance review the DAY before I left for Cabo. It wasn't that I got a negative review about my performance, but rather my boss chose to focus on the fact that I wasn't putting in my 'face time'. That's right. Just showing my face is supposed to be what will ensure a promotion and "good" performance? F*that.

I am done. My boss said that I am to be 'staying until 8pm' every night. And make the peanuts that I'm making AND pretend to be busy? Screw you. I need a life. I need to go to the gym. I need to do social things. I need to spend time with the pup. This is just NOT the place for me.

I like the industry, but I don't like the company I work for. I have to get out. So, I've begun the job hunt.

I have an interesting offer on the table from an ex boss. HOWEVER, I would have to purchase a car, as the office is about 30 minutes out from where I currently live. This adds a huge expense to the budget. So, I've calcuated that my monthly expenses will increase by:

- $250 {base for car payment, considering the purchase of a used car}
- $150 {rental of parking spot}
- $100 {car insurance}
- $150 {gas costs}

That means I would have to make another $650 per month. I don't know that this rather small shop can afford that. But - the position is for sales, so commission may help with that. AND, there may be the potential for a car/mileage allowance. The particulars still need to be worked out, but the more I think about it, the more excited I am for a new challenge, and a work environment that I enjoy being in.

I will keep you all posted as I know what's coming. I would like your opinions - do you think the potential pay cut worth the happiness? Lemme know in the comments; I value what you guys say.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

The Importance of the E-fund {ask and ye shall find}

2010-06-12T08:11:00.001-04:00

Owning a home is crazy expensive. Not that I’d expected it to be all roses n’shiz, but serrrrriously? This is insane.

Not only have my condo fees and mortgage gone up {read = locked in mortgage @ 3.79% which isn’t bad, but an increase nevertheless, and the condo fees $100 up per month}, but MY WASHER HAS BROKEN.

Lately I’ve been noticing that my clothes just aren’t coming out clean. There’s little bits of dust on them, or you can still see small stains like deodorant stains on them when they come out of the wash. So, I called the *Canadian Parentals to see what they thought I should do. Papa Canadian said “buy a new one”. Gee thanks, Mr. Frugal. Momma Canadian suggested I ask the property management office who supplied the washer/dryer and see if I could get someone to repair it.

Never the one to not look at my options in the worst case scenario, I begun researching stackable washer/dryers. I wasn’t planning to go for the high end, but didn’t want cheap appliances that would poop out in a year or two – middle of the road was my target. Middle of the what? These started at about $2,000. HA. NO. My e-fund has $1,000 and that’s all I could afford {first time in a long time that I've learned to live within my means. Kudos to me!!!}. Seems as though a bucket and a washboard was how I would be doing all future loads.

After simply asking the management office, I was able to have a repairman come out to my place and FIX the washer. He was so kind as to inform me that it’s likely been broken since I moved in. Therefore, my clothes haven’t been washed in about 6 months. Gross. However, just for the record, I wasn’t stinky! After labour and parts, $300 all in. Thank you e-fund! All paid for and my clothes smell amazeballs.

The moral of the story: always have an e-fund – you will need it. Oh, and if your clothes have dust, chances are, your washer is broken.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Mexico Porn {Not THAT kind...Don't Get Excited}

2010-06-10T20:11:00.000-04:00

So as promised, here are some Mexico pics from my vacay.

Enjoy!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

***Click to enlarge, if you're so inclined***

Final May Budge Update

2010-05-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

Executive Protector

No spend days = 8/12

Not so bad, but still not the 12/12 I’m goin’ for!

So, that said, I’ve decided to write out some goals for June. They’re simple, and attainable, and things that will def help build up my future.

June Goals

- 12 no-spend days

- Retirement account {TFSA} at $100

- Taxes saving account at $200

- Mortgage account at $100

- Earn $50 extra to pay for nails

- Work-out at least 3 times a week

I will try to keep updates as I go along, but no guarantees I won’t fall flat on my face and sprain an elbow…again!

Mascara Review

2010-05-29T11:17:00.000-04:00

Executive Protector

I’m still trying out mascaras, as you will remember from this post.

Lately, I’ve been trying out two which seem to be the crowd favourite among beauty bloggers:

Covergirl Lashblast

L’Oreal Voluminous

*both are in the waterproof formula

I haven’t really noticed a difference in terms of the volume or curl hold that either gives me. Both last all day and keep my lashes looking plush and juicy. They’re great, except for two cons:

The Lashblast does NOT wash off. I’ve researched, and this seems to be a common problem and I’ve tried everything short of an eye-wash station in a lab to wash it off. That sucker isn’t coming off.

The Voluminous does not come in a waterproof formula with the curling brush.

Now, I do have a favourite, and I’m with the crowd on this one: Voluminous. That’s not to say that I will never use the Lashblast; I think it would be great for a beach day, or on a vacay where you’re in and out of the pool or sweating lots. But for everyday, the Voluminous is the winner, hands down.

Why?

it holds a curl
it makes my lashes luscious
it washes off easily

I’m not a huge mascara snob, but those are my three main wants, and this mascara does it for me. BUT, I’m unsure if I like this better than the L’Oreal Collagen. I will have to try both {I know I have, but I mean right at the same time, or perhaps one on each eye} and review. Is that something you’d want me to do?

Lemme know in the comments below {Unintentional rhyme. Apologies}.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

She Perioded On My Pants!!! {***WARNING - GIRLY POST!}

2010-05-28T11:11:00.003-04:00

Executive Protector ***from www.deep-focus.com***

Though the title may indicate, this is NOT a movie review of Superbad {though it’s one of my all-time faves}.

I learned a new trick recently that I have tried, tested and found to be true. We’re girls. We get our periods. Sometimes, our periods escape. It’s gross on occasion, but just the reality for all of us. If I’m like most of you, I have ‘period underwear’ that I wear only during the time when Aunt Flow decides to visit. However, I will forget on occasion and sometimes wear newer underpants {L-O-V-E that word} and have a bit of a mess.

You think you have to soak for hours, you think you have to bleach or you may think you even have to throw them out. NO!

The very thing that will get those nasty stains out and save lots of your laundry is something we all have in our homes: shampoo. Yes, you read that right: shampoo. No specific kind; any kind will work.

Steps to get rid of the stain:

1.) Put shampoo on the stain;

2.) Rub in;

3.) Repeat until you see the stain start to deteriorate;

4.) Wash.

That’s it. It will work. I’ve not only done it on sheets and underpants, but on my running shoes as well! {I sprained my elbow and split it open last weekend – hence the absence!}

So there you go ladies. Hopefully this will save your underwears!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

PS

Is anyone as stoked as I am for Get Him to the Greek?? Another Jonah Hill movie. It's been way too long - loves it!

Epic Fail is an Epic NOT!!!!!!

2010-05-18T09:22:00.000-04:00

Guess who DIDN'T epically fail her exam? Moi! Yes, that's right, *Canadian Girl passed both exams.

If you don't remember what I'm talking about, check out my two posts here and here.

Was my mark stellar? Nope, but was it a fail? Not even close.

I was so thrilled I didn't know what to do!

I can't believe I'm almost done my designation. Only 3 more to go {they aren't the harder ones at least, those are done} and I'm already registered in 2 of those 3. If I stay on track - and I don't see anything de-railing my schedule - I'll be done in December of 2010.

YAY!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl
Executive Protector

Re-Jiggy Budget.

2010-05-17T11:06:00.000-04:00

As promised, I played with my budget #s this weekend. Looks like I'm going to have extra money, despite the condo fees rising.

I will be starting accounts for:

- Tax
- Mortgage
- Retirement

The Tax account will be a backup, as I have to pay quarterly installments for my property taxes - I think I'll just use a basic savings account at my bank, since I'll need the money pretty readily when the payments come due {ING direct TFSAs take a while to withdraw dollaz}. Mortgage will be like the Tax account in that it will be savings for a lump sum payment on the mortgage once a year. I'll plop it in a TFSA with ING, which I already have, since I won't need it but once a year. Retirement savings will be in an RRSP at my bank. I think this is the best way to do it, or should I do a TFSA?? Lemme know your thoughts.

The Misc savings account will def be a regular old savings account, unless it starts to get larger, in which case I'll throw it in one of my TFSA's {ie. when I'm saving for something...}. This way, I can access it as needed.

Without further aidiu, here you go:

What are your thoughts on the retirement account - RRSP vs TFSA? Keep in mind I'm in my early 20s. Any budgety re-jiggy suggestions?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Condo Fees Rose. Eff.

2010-05-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

Just as the title says, my condo fees went up. Since I'm ~~organized~~ anal, I have all of my pay money allocated like 3 months in advance. After locking in my mortgage and receiving notice that my condo fees have gone up, I've had to re-allocate the funds. Though it will be tighter as of today's pay, it should be the ONLY time it's tight, leaving only $38 for misc savings.

Here is the re-jigged budge for my May 14th paycheque:

I will have to rejig my numbers for the remaining 3 cheques. I will try to post on those for Monday.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Nails. Cities. Uncool.

2010-05-14T09:00:00.001-04:00

Executive Protector

I bite my nails. Worst habit. Ok, well I used to smoke, so 2^nd worst habit.

While paying off my debt, I got rid of anything I deemed to be frivolous and one of those things were my ~~fake~~ gel nails. These are the ONLY things that make my nails grow, and are the only way I can avoid biting. I used to get a fill every 3 weeks, and went to an amazing place near my parents’ place.

As you all know, I’m long out of their house {I used to be able to go back home in University. I had a car. I am now a pedestrian. Don’t talk about it.}, and going home just isn’t an option. It’s too far, and not worth the cost to me.

I’m constantly trying to find a new place here in the city and thought I’d found one. I got my nails done before Cabo, and they looked great and held up well. I had them filled earlier this week and EEEW. You can see where they were filled, they’re lifting already, and they aren’t nearly as shiny as before. IS IT SO HARD TO FIND A GOOD NAIL PLACE? Serrrrrrrrriously.

I love just a simple French mani with the permanent white tips {translate = not all Real Housewives over-done fake white tips, but permanent airbrushed tips}. Apparently, that’s hard to find.

Annnnd because I ~~am anal~~ wanted to make it easy for you to see what I mean, I've attached a pic, complete with circled nail issues. I die.

Do any of you get your nails done? If so, where do you go? Help a sista out here!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

No Spend Spendy Update.

2010-05-13T10:33:00.000-04:00

So sorry for my absentee blogginess. I'm trying to find a new job, I've been sick, and just generally un-motivated.

Either way, totes sorry and will be pulling up my socks from here-on in.

A no spend, spendy update.

March: 5/12. This is LESS THAN 50%. EPIC FAIL, *Canadian Girl.

April: 9/9. Why is this only 9, not 12, you're wondering? Well, that's because I was in Cabo for a week, and normally go for 3 days of no-spendiness a week. Therefore, 12-3 = 9. So EPIC WIN, *Canadian Girl.

Talk about inconsistency. I die.

The summer is going to be even harder to keep up with my goal. WTH am I going to do? Any tips?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Back from Vacay

2010-05-03T17:55:00.000-04:00

LOVE CABO!

Totes going back there. I took some sweet-a** pics, which I will try to post here {anonymously, of course}.

The weather was great, the food was so good that I think I packed on a few pounds, and the sun shone down on me for 7 straight days. I couldn't have been happier...well, except for my job. But that will come in another post.

There's only one downside to Cabo: the ocean is virtually un-swimmable. SAD FACE!!! I am a strong ~~swimmer~~ surfer. Yes, you read that correctly - I can surf. My parents threw me on a board when I was young {they're 70's hippies...don't judge} and I've never looked back. I'm somewhat of a water-baby and am never happier than when I'm at the beach. I take any and every opportunity to swim and can just about battle any current within a certain range of force. Range = not too strong. Height isn't so much of an issue; I can swim under the wave and follow it, much like you would with surfing.

HOWEVER, here, the waves were HELLA STRONG!! Bf wouldn't even venture into the ocean, and I almost got pulled away. It was a shame that we only discovered "Lovers Beach" on our 2nd last day there. For a $10 water taxi fare, you can boat over here and swim in the ocean just 5 minutes away. Eff. I LOVED it. Bf even got some great pics, which I will try to share.

I can't say enough about our resort - the RIU. F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C! LOVES IT! Have you ever stayed there??

What'd I miss while I was gone? I've been trying to get up to date via the blogroll, but can't seem to do so in quicktime. So, leave me a love below and tell me your stories!!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

VACAY TOMORROW!!!!

2010-04-22T20:24:00.000-04:00

Can you tell I'm a little excited!?? Who wouldn't be. I totes deserve this vacay. Not only have I been working my little buns off, but I've paid off all my debt and, for the first time like ever, I'm going on a vacation and it's FULLY PAID FOR!

AH. So excited for fun in the sun, and perhaps some budget-friendly trips to tour.

Miss me while I'm gone. See you all in a week!!

xxxxxooooo

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Mexican Night Gets Me in the Mood.

2010-04-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

The bf is awesome. Have I said that lately? I think I have.

Oh well...he's AWESOME. He made me Mexican food last night to get us in the mood for Cabo. Loves it!

Just chicken quesadillas but they were made with all stuff we had at home, except for the guacamole and sour cream which we bought. Great dinner for two for a total cost of $10. I'm honestly not as inclined to go out to dinner now, knowing I can cook it for so little at home. Besides, who knows what those people in the back will sneeze into your special sauce...

My food budget is roughly a measly $25 per week, which could NOT allow for eating out often. I make my lunches and know {almost} always what I'm eating. Not only is it better for you, but the extra money is allocated to savings, or elsewhere in my budge where there's a shortfall.

How do you save money while still eating like a Queen {or King...no separation of the sexes here...}?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Epic Exam Fail, Take 2 and Rambling.

2010-04-20T09:00:00.001-04:00

Update from this post here: marks posted May 15th. I have to wait WAYYYYY until then to find out. Eff. This sucks.

{from http://feilz.com...guess I will CONTINUE to look like this!}

And in other news....

This weather is great. I am totes not upset to say goodbye to winter. I think that I see life in a wholely different light now, given that I'm debt free. I no longer feel a weight on my shoulders knowing I have money for savings, fun, and any unexpected costs that come my way. This feels great and I was crazy to not have felt it sooner.

The bf is paying off his student loans then moving out on his own. He's a personal finance champ! Oh, and did I mention he's now hooked on 'Til Debt Do Us Part, thanks to yours truly? He was even searching for Gail's book so he could read it {frugal tip: search the library instead of buying it. He luuurrrved this one!}. Ain't that so cute? This PF bug is totes contageous and something I like to spread...not like VD or the Herp....not that I have them...but, er, you get the picture.

I am beaming with proudy smiles right now!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Mo Money.

2010-04-19T08:01:00.000-04:00

Now that the vacation is all paid for, and the debt is gone, and the emergency fund is stocked, I'm left with the question we debt free girls long to ask ourselves: what will we do with our extra money?

I'm alotting my income to the following areas:
1.) Fun
2.) Retirement
3.) Mortgage
4.) Taxes
5.) TFSA

I'm anticipating to contribute $50 to my retirement account, and $100 per month to the remaining accounts, with the exception of "Fun", which will take the remainder.

The "Retirement" will be in an RRSP, with the rest of the accounts in various TFSA's. The account labelled "TFSA" will be invested in mutual funds, so I'm anticipating a somewhat higher rate of return than I could find with a conventional account.

Assuming the monthly allocations, an income of roughly $2900 per month, and the $50 to "Retirement", the monthly budge should be {after subtracting living costs of roughly $1599 - mortgage, insurance, weekly spending etc}:

1.) $751
2.)$50
3.)$200
4.)$200
5.)$100

The fun account will be for trips, extra savings and generally things I want.

I question the amount in the "Fun" account. Is $751 too much? Should I be allocating it elsewhere?

The $200 for Taxes, and $200 for Mortgage goes for the quarterly payments, and yearly lump sum payment, respectively. I could bump the Mortgage $$ up, but I think that my priority at this time should be more "Fun" then paying off the house in a rush {mortgage is only $100k on a place worth almost $300k - I had an inheritance, savings from modelling gigs held in trust until it was given to me, and a parental "loan"}.

Help!! What do you think?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Vacay. Can't wait.

2010-04-18T20:00:00.000-04:00

I leave soooooon for my epic Cabo vacation. I am so beyond excited.

I've done nothing but course work today, along with some laundry and dishes thrown in for good measure. Eff. I am so domestic it hurts.

I'm packed and think I'm ready {insert lady from Christmas commercial here who forgets her pants...}, but that can change. I believe there isn't more to pack in terms of clothes, just have to pick up some ~~trashy~~ intellectual magazines for the trip - I will be using Optimum points, so they iz F-R-E-E!

So stoked.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

No Spend Update.

2010-04-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

For April, so far 6/12 days done. Maybe I can go over this month???

Either way, doing well so far. I'm kinda proud. Does it count as cheating since I had two exams this week?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Bad Reality TV. Take 2.

2010-04-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

I've previously blogged about reality tv. Read it here. It's my porn and I love it.

16 And Pregnant.

I love this show. Why? I'm not sure. I wasn't a teen mom, nor were many of my friends. I think I was too much of a "goody" to get preggers. Not to mention, I was super careful. These girls, careful they are not.

Take Leah for instance. Twins. That's right, twins. AND, she got pregnant after knowing their father for a month. C'mon. Mistakes happen, I get that. But really? Keep your legs closed. Do these girls not realize the ramifications of their actions?

{from mtv.ca. nothing says "mom' like a fuzzy tiara}

It seems as though nothing changes their minds about the very implications of teen pregnancy, and they think it will be a piece of cake. Not to mention the stereotypes that the show perpetuates: broken home, single mom, party lifestyle. However, we come therefore to the nature vs nurture debate. Are these girls pregnant because they were destined to be from day 1, or are they pregnant because they vie for someone's attention, someone to love or a family of their own?

It seems as though the show does a decent job of getting families from all different walks of life; from Samantha the self-proclaimed 'good girl', to Maci the 'virgin' who got pregnant, to Nikkole, the 'party/bad girl'. One thing is common: they all drop out of school. Why? This isn't necessary. We have the internet for a reason, USE IT. You will perpetuate the cycle if you continue this. WHY WHY WHY??!

Maci seems to be the most level headed to me. She's ditched the mean, useless baby daddy, and has taken control of her life. Caitlynn and Tyler are awesome too. I think they did the best thing giving that baby up for adoption. Like really. I'm an adult and I wouldn't want to live with Butch!

What do you think? Is the show just glamourizing teen pregnancy, or is it doing what it set out to do: create awareness of a problem that can be remedied?

Exams. Epic Fail. Maybe...

2010-04-12T14:30:00.000-04:00

Lack of posting due to exams. Did it pay off? Not entirely sure. One of the exams was so effing hard! I would've had to memorize the textbook, which I totes didn't have time to do.

Ah well...worst case scenario, I retake it.

However, I must point out in the words of *Momma Canadian Girl: "You have two university degrees. If you found it hard, think of the normal people".

Oy.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

No Spend...Update.

2010-04-06T10:21:00.000-04:00

So, I've lamented in the past about my lack of motivation or success thereof, with regards to my personal "no-spend" challenges.

I've decided to turn over a new leaf for April, and HIT that 12 day mark right on. So far, I'm at 3. Yes, I'm counting the holidays {I could go to Timmy's if I really wanted, or S-bucks is always open here!}.

I also have 2 exams next week, so my head is buried in books trying to make sense of something that only those with a knack for it could. This should only prove to help my cause. I'll be taking public transit to and from the two exams, so 4 trips in total. This, my loves, costs $$$. However, we have a sort of bulk pricing option, so I'm going to do that on Monday {the purchase, not the exams!} and then I can refrain from spending the rest of the days.

How will I do this?:
- bring my own coffee to the exams
- bring my own water to the exams
- wait until I'm home to eat lunch or bring a snack
- not go out for 'a celebration' after the 1st exam, when I really should be studying.

Any suggestions?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Free Glasses!!

2010-04-06T10:18:00.000-04:00

Hey Lovlies,

I just got free glasses from Clearly Contacts. I wear readers (yes, I'm old...ok, well not that old, but I do have bad eyes, and laser surgery corrected the distance issues...but I digress...), so I just got Gucci readers for ONLY the cost of shipping - $14. Which, I can expense thru my vision plan. Therefore, F-R-E-E.

The coupon code is JAYS. If you hurry, you may be able to still use it; only the first 500 are free.

Comment below if you get some!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Happy Easter!!

2010-04-04T12:21:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter, My Loves!!!

Hope you're all enjoying some much deserved time with loved ones, friends and family. I know I am!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Jesse James, You Douche.

2010-03-31T09:00:00.000-04:00

Just when we thought Tiger Woods was the ultimate D*bag, in comes Jesse James. For serious. Who in their effing right mind would cheat on Sandra Bullock? Really??

Fame get to your small peen and make you lash out like the d*ck you are? Oy. As you can tell, I feel so strongly about someone who doesn’t treat a woman properly. I guess he’s given up the girl next door for Swastika-loving, Harley riding, S&M loving ~~ladies~~ strippers.

Take Exhibit A: Michelle “Bombshell” McGee.

*courtesy of michellebombshell.com {barf}

#1 – nice name. I’m sure you were born with that

#2 – you cheat knowing he has a wife? What a woman

#3 – you have white supremist tattoos and a KID? Some people shouldn’t be allowed to pro-create

Exhibit B: Melissa Smith

#1 – lots of tattoos with not so bad sayings; I have tats and I rep them, I’ll give you 1 over McGee

#2 – you’re a stripper. ‘Nuff said.

#3 – you’ve been arrested multiple times. Classy.

Exhibit C: Brigitte Daguerre

#1 – you’re a kinky, homewrecking mess who isn’t even that hot

#2 – hired as an OCC employee. He has a wife; you should’ve stayed where you belong

#3 – claimed the sex was bad. Hilarious, as shiteous as she is.

Exhibit D: Janine Lindemulder – Ex wife #2

*courtesy of cbsnews.com

#1 – you can’t even raise your daughter; you live in a halfway house like the coked out ex-porn star you are

#2 – see Exhibit D, #1

#3 – your own daughter doesn’t want to be with you. She’d rather have Sandra as her mother

Seems like Ex #1 - Karla James - is the only one who hasn't slept with Jesse James.

What a douche. Keep your head up, Sandra!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

How Do You Define 'Money'?

2010-03-29T14:08:00.001-04:00

It has been said that money is merely an idea in our heads; a perceived amount assigned to these little strips of paper and coins of metal that we carry in our wallets. Modern economics, however, teaches money as a “unit of account”, designed to set the economical tone and allow for the trade of goods and service in exchange for money.

Noting that money is that perceived amount assigned to the individual strips of paper known as “units of account”, can it be argued that money is not one or the other, but instead a combination of both? Could it be that money is an idealized object and just a mere figment of imagination with no real meaning?

One side will argue that, yes, money is simply required to live and is used to purchase things whose value is arbitrary and set to make a profit, rather than provide benefit to the purchaser. Another side will argue the opposite; money remains the key to the future and what makes the world go around.

Have you ever heard the saying that there are people who have money and that there are people who are rich? I believe that money doesn’t make you who you are; it only allows for the material and can sometimes prove to muddy the brains of those who want and want and want, neglecting the importance of friendships, family, security, love and safety. Our world is so obsessed with what money “means”, that we forget that it is merely a piece of paper with an arbitrary amount.

In the world of Canadian Girl, money has consumed me. No, I don’t mean the things that the material cannot substitute for: security and satisfaction. For the first time in my life I can safely say that I am financially secure. Do I have the most expensive things, or the best of the best? No. But I have money in the bank for an emergency {yes, money will get you out of an emergency, I’ll give you that}, a family that loves me, wonderful friends and the love of those around me. This mere figment in our world’s imagination has become a representation of my own success. I do not put my full measure of success on the balance of my bank account, but rather measure my success in the ability to cease spending and thus viewing money as a “unit of account” to fuel the materialistic microcosm of the economy which existed in my own head. I have transformed the “unit” to a figment or an idea. Money is transformational and its value lies in the beholder.

It’s clear from my experience that the true meaning of the word ‘money’ will vary among those you talk to. So, my dears, what do you think ‘money’ is?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

*Canadian Girl Was Wondering: 6 year old edition.

2010-03-27T08:00:00.000-04:00

Why the eff do my fingers always wrinkle when I shower for too long, or I'm in the pool for an extended period? It's something I've always wondered. So, I Googled. Yes, I Googled.

Here's your answer:

Basically, your skin is made up of two levels: the epidermis and dermis. The top layer {or epidermis} is made up of keratin-based proteins and is designed to basically keep the water out. However, when exposed to water for long periods, the keratin absorbs the water and swells, while the under layers do not. Thus, there is a wrinkling effect due to the increased swelling.

There you have it. A random, un-scientific answer to a rando question.

How old am I, six? See a good article to answer it better here.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

No Spend Update/Fail.

2010-03-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

I'd promised in an earlier post to do a "no spend days" update. Can I say EPIC FAIL? I am doing so badly! This is not cool, Canadian Girl, not cool!

As I've mentioned before, my monthly target is 12 days. This is realistic, given that I can go about 3 days a week without spending a cent...that is until I joined the effing d-ball team and got a bf. Urgh.

January - 6/12
February - 8/12

Since I love numbers so much, a quick calculation yields that to be a 58% rate of "no spendage". Srrsly? I'm not doing well.

Must pull up my socks!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Johnny Weir. I die.

2010-03-24T07:21:00.004-04:00

Unless you've been living under a rock of late, you know that the Olympics just finished here in Canada. GO CANADA! Oh wait, sorry - to be honest, I couldn't give an eff. Hate it or love it, that's me.

I digress...

I'm not much for sports and can only stomach those that don't consist of hockey, two man luge, snow of any sort, and involve dancing somehow. By the powers of deduction, I am therefore left with ONE thing to watch during the winter olympics: ice skating. Or, ice dancing. Whatever you call it, I'll usually tune in to check out the costumes, choreography and athleticism.

I ~~don't like to~~ can't skate. I know, I know. I'm a sorry excuse for a Canadian. I'd love to be able to do so, but I just can't. It's impossible. I've had pro hockey players try to teach me {yes, a good friend is married to an NHL player}, and even they are amazed at my sheer inability to glide. I prefer to "step" or "stomp".

Again, I digress...

Johnny Weir: the man is odd. Sorry. He's odd. Gay? Likely. Does it matter? Not really. His sexual preference has no baring whatsoever on his style, or lack thereof.

See this as Exhibit A {image from the Globe and Mail}:

To me, this looks a little too Blades of Glory, no?

His flamboyant tendancies aside {wanna know what I'm talking about? Read this.}, he's a great skater. But seriously dude, WHERE DID YOU LEARN TO DRESS?

Exhibit B:
I love LV. But srrrsly?

And what would be any great fashionistao without a little controversy? See here, oh and here too.

Controversy or not. You go Johnny Weir!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

*Canadian Girl's Currently Loving: Forever 21 Dresses

2010-03-23T19:59:00.001-04:00

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this dress. And it's el-cheapo {new phrase. make it stick.} at Forever 21.   And it has p-o-c-k-e-t-s! Like...whoa.

Ooh...and this one too.

I wish our F-21 was better. Urgh.

Need this for Cabo {or anything else, really...}. NOW.

Any opinions on where I can find the "best" F-21 in Canada?

....I'm interested to see your opinions!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Apologies for the Absence.

2010-03-23T10:28:00.000-04:00

Hi Lovelies,

So sorry to have been absent of late. I have had a death in my family and it's consumed most of my time.

I will be back at it shortly. Just wanted you all to know I haven't forgotten to blog. I'm just pre-occupied.

I am so sorry!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Lovin' the Sun.

2010-03-17T14:06:00.000-04:00

It's so bright and sun-shiney here today. Can I tell you how happy that makes me? It's something like 15 degrees outside. To anyone outside of Canada or a US State with cold weather would think that's positively frigid. We, however, embrace the heat though it may only be a small relief from winter.

I didn't realize just how much the sun affects my mood. Going for a walk at lunch today made me uber happy and I'm ready to conquer the afternoon. I just wish I was somewhere on a patio drinkin' with the Irish. I hate being an adult. Eff.

Can the weather really affect my mood thiiiiiiiiiiiiiissssss much??

{side note: I've accomplished sweet nothing at work today. This is my St. Paddy's strike!}

HAPPY DRINKIN' DAY, LOVES!!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Mexican Food. Free.

2010-03-16T09:42:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I met up with an old university friend, we'll call him G, for dinner at a Mexican restaurant here in the city. OM Geeeeeeee it was great. It's getting me super excited for Cabo in April.

I'm not usually one for spice in my food, but let me tell you that the Enchiladas were great. There was a special where you got the Enchiladas and a beer for $12. Great deal if you ask me, considering that the Enchilladas were $9.95 and the beer $5.55 each on its own. ANNND....you may also be interested to know that I lurrrrve beer. Especially Dos Equis, and Sol. Yes, I love Mexican beer. And guacamole. But only the homemade kind, not the shizz you get in those plastic containers at Sobeys or Loblaws. Gross.

SOOOOOOOOOOOO excited for Cabo. But I think it's still too far away to start a countdown.

Bf joined us for dinner {secretly, I wanted him to come so he could get excited too!} and then treated me to my meal; he's been practically living at my place since Saturday, so I've fed his weight in groceries. It's the least he can do! {yeah. I'm a mean gf. Deal with it!} This ------->
is what that guacamole looked like. It's early in the morning and I STILL want more! Eff my life. I'm on operation super sexy hot body for Mexico here.

That makes yesterday "no spend" day #1 for the week. I'm going for 3 a week, making approximately 12 per month. That's the very max I can do right now. I have to bus to and fro dodgeball on Mondays, and usually end up picking up a bagel and a coffee before my class on Wednesday nights. I've tried bringing my dinner, but it's just always soggy and nasty by the time 5pm rolls around. A Tim's bagel and coffee is only $2.52, so I think I can absorb that cost.

My savings/spending plan is all about anticipating costs, so that's what I've done this week. I don't really anticipate spending more than that, but you never know what could pop up. Yesterday was a "no spend", today should be, and Thursday should be, giving me my three for this week. I will have to do a March tally so far and a Feb wrap up to get back to you.

What's new with you, my loves??

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

*Canadian Girl's Currently Loving: The Burberry Trench.

2010-03-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I've always wanted a Burberry trench. I think it's classic, worth the money and will never go out of style.

I fully believe it would be a worthwhile dollar spend on my part; an investment in my wardrobe, so to speak.

However, every time I'm at Holt's, I just can't bring myself to fathom the very thought of buying one. $3,000 for a jacket? Come the f*ck on. Seriously? I'm a slave to fashion, but my wallet sure ain't.

'Member when bf and I went to Niagara and I took a little tumble off ye ol' bandwagon? There's a Burberry outlet that had trenches. They were ~~reasonably~~ priced much cheaper than Holt's and were a classic, not 'nouveau' sort of design. I just want something simple and elegant and timeless. Something that is beige on the exterior with the Burberry Nova Check interior. Is that so much to ask?

Hey Burberry - 1980 called. They want their design back. Seriously? WTF Burberry? You're always so damned classic!

Check out this link on Burberry.com. WTF? {again}.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Income Summary and Savings Forecast {oh ya, and I'm DEBT FREEEE!}.

2010-03-10T11:25:00.000-05:00

As promised in yesterday's post, I'm going to show you my income/savings forecast for the remainder of March and the month of April. I will likely make this a monthly or bi-monthly thing - give me some feedback and let me know what you think, prettttty pleeeeeeease.

Anywho, enough with the lame-ass preamble and onto the good shizz.

Click on the pic to make it bigger. Here, I've done a simple Assets vs Liabilities and net worth calculation. Looks like I'll be IN THE BLACK {!!!} for both months. Ok, so not sooooo black for March, but either way, its positive; that's more than I can say before.

All of April's numbers are ballpark's, as is the latter half of March. I will periodically update and let you guys know how it's going {if you want to know, that is}.

The bf and I have booked a trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Since I've had a little $$$$ saved already for trips, I'm not going to be completely out money. I figure since I have an e-fund, and I've been so good and have paid off my debt less than 2 years after graduating university, that I totes deserve a trip. ANNNNNNNND, I've always wanted to go to Cabo. We're departing at the end of April and I can't wait.

I also am thinking of buying another pair of Tory Burch flats. LOVE LOVE LOVE these and I recommend these to anyone. I've allotted for this in my savings calculation below.

Again, click on the pic to enlarge it. You can see that I'll be in the red at the end of March. Perhaps I can hold off on those shoes. I clearly need to sell some stuff to make money as well to pay for Cabo. Gross. But I deserve this trip and I'm going. I'll let you know how it goes with the sellage.

What are your thoughts, peeps?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

DEBT FREEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-03-09T09:04:00.000-05:00

YES! You read the title correctly. Officially, as of today, I am waking up debt free for the first time in about 5 or 6 years. Can you believe it? I don't think it's hit me yet. Really, I don't.

My tax return was a little less than I thought it would be, coming in at roughly $926. This gave me enough leeway to pay the $16.75 admin fee for my taxes, buy a shirt, and pay the remainder of my debt. I have even put a little extra in the account for any interest that might pop up. WHOOP WHOOP! I don't owe a penny to anyone, except for my mortgage. I can't believe it. I wonder when it'll finally hit.

To celebrate, I'm buying my Tory Burch shoes that I want (found them on eBay uber cheap) and will be taking a trip away with the bf. You ask how I"ll afford this? You'll see a post on that tomorrow.

In the meantime, check out the visual proof here:

I'm thinking I may try to sell something on Craigslist so that I can buy some Chanel sunnies for my trip.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

5 Days til DEBT FREE!

2010-03-03T09:42:00.002-05:00

I just checked on the CRA's online site, and I will be paid my tax return on March 8th, directly into my bank account. Can you believe it? 5 days and I will be totally DEBT FREE.

<- This is how I've been feeling lately. NO MORE!!!!

Let the countdown begin! I don't even know what I'm going to do with myself once I'm not constantly thinking about money anymore. Yes, I'll still save. Yes, I'll still clip coupons. BUT, I will now have the freedom to do what I want when I want to with my money and not owe a single penny with the exception of my mortgage (which, might I add, I plan to try to pay down aggressively in the next few years...I've got time tho, and the interest it crazy low right now!).

I will be posting AND counting down every day (or I'll try to at least...I have a thing on Saturday with my sorority...but besides that, I'm good).

What will I buy to reward myself? Perhaps those Tory Burch shoes and some sunglasses. What do you think I should get? If you want, I can post pics - but you've all seen the Tory Burch shoes, I'll just post of the sunglasses. Let me know in the comments.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

PS
I just noticed the excessive use of brackets and run-on sentences. I'm excited. Apologies. Deal with it.

Tax/Debt Update.

2010-02-28T14:04:00.000-05:00

I lit-er-al-ly just finished filing my 2009 taxes, and I'm going to be getting a return of $926. It cost about $17 to file them, so I'm netting return of about $909. This is AWESOME!!!

I'm pretty sure I've filed it all properly; I kept all of my documentation in a file, so let's hope I don't get audited, but I'm ready if I do.

OOOH....and the debt update: my credit line charged me only $8.51 Again. AWESOME.

Therefore, I only have $867.90 left. WHOA! I'm going to be debt free as soon as I get this crazy tax return. It's so close I can taste it.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

February Debt Update. ALMOST THERE!!!

2010-02-26T12:26:00.000-05:00

I've been so MIA this week - I'm sorry. I had a midterm this Wednesday and it's consumed every single ounce of free time.

Now that that ~~hard~~ awesome test is over with, I'm back with a debt update.

I paid off $4 over my goal this month.
This is good considering my little shopping fall off the ship trip for Vday weekend.

You'll see that my figures have actually increased for my final payoff amount. This is because I forgot to account for the roughly $16 of interest that will be charged when I did my initial calculations. This has been amended and gives me a final payoff of $872.33.

It's so close I can taste it! This time next month, I will be debt free. Boy it feels good to say that.

Also - I've sold some stuff and used my bonus to almost completely pay off Vday's shopping extravaganza. Therefore, I'm anticipating some extra dollaz to put towards my debt this month, as I don't usually go to my $100/week budget. I will be putting every last cent towards that sucker.

Here's a summary. Click to enlarge:

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

A Bonus. Woot!

2010-02-24T09:13:00.000-05:00

So just got news this morning that I'm getting a bonus from work. It's small, mind you, but it's something.

It's only about $500, which is a small token to show me that they've valued my work in this unit since August. AND, my boss also informed me that there's the potential for a raise come July. WOOP WOOP!!

Oh, and preliminary tax calculations = a return of over $1,000.

Now, I'm not freaking so much over the "off the bandwagon" fall, and know that I'll have enough $$$ to pay off my debt AND treat myself. Cabo here I come.

Please pardon my lack of posts this week. I have a midterm tonight and I've been studying super hard (makes less work for the final. I love it!), but should be back in action tomorrow.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

*Canadian Girl's Currently Loving: JCrew.

2010-02-19T09:07:00.000-05:00

When I said I went off the bandwagon last weekend, I forgot to mention that most of my shopping was at JCrew. It was an outlet/sale time, yes, but it was there. I am in LUUURRRRRVE. I was never one for their clothes before, but I must say, it suits my current style perfectly. However, the prices? Not so much. At least not right now.

I love this look for summer. I have a ruffled shirt, and bought a similar cardi from JCrew on the weekend. I'm pretty sure I have khaki shorts as well, so this is a budget look for me that I can surely do!

I have a shirt just like this, which I think I actually paid more for than the $68 it is at JCrew. (* yes, I know it's $68 USD, but with the exchange, that's like $70 CAD, so not much difference there)

I know I have shorts of a similar colour, so I'll def be pairing this together for the summer.

Love these, but I'm pretty sure Old Naves has them for $5, no? $108 USD. Eff that.

Great look for work. I don't have any of these colours for work clothes, so I'm going to have to improvise.

Another look for work. I bought a cardi this colour on the weekend as well. I'm certain I have a khaki pencil skirt. The blouse, however, not so much. But I can improvise. That's what a budget fashionista does, right? *look is minus those shoes. eeew*

Love this look for a weekend, or for casual Friday. I have a grey blazer, and for sure have a white shirt. Perhaps I could pair this with shorts as well for a weekend in the summer.

I bought a cardi close to this colour on the weekend, but mine is more of a brighter T & Co. blue. I die. I love it.

Mine wasn't the $168, however; it was $22. Budget fashionista WIN!

This would be great with a skirt for work, or pants, for that matter. Jeans on the weekend could work too.

This can be monogrammed by JCrew. LOVE IT!

Love this ruffled blouse. Great under a blazer or a cardi. And it's on sale. Eff my life.

I could go on for days, but I'm going to stop there for the sake of my sanity and my bank account. This has made me so anxious to be debt free all that much more. I ~~need~~ want these gorge clothes in my closet NOW!

Click here for a link to all new arrivals, or find some sale merchandise here. I always check www.jcrew.com. I know I shouldn't, but I can't help myself.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Awesome Lashes in 10 Steps.

2010-02-17T15:27:00.002-05:00

I've gotten a few emails from readers asking how I get my lashes to stay curly and look full. I have to say that 1/2 of it is genetics and the other 1/2 is a lifetime of LOVING makeup.

I've told you all before just how OBSESSED I am with makeup. Mascara is no exception to the rule. I don’t even need black eyeliner to make my lashes look full, but alas, I digress. Everyone who doesn’t have full lashes should invest in a great black eyeliner. I love the Stila Eye Kajal for a change-up tho and I think that those who don't have naturally full eyelashes should most def invest in this.

In terms of mascaras, you don’t have to go for high end. More expensive is not always better, and this is especially the case here. I have tried and tried to love MAC, but I just can’t. TiffanyD loves MAC Plushlash, but it just doesn’t do it for me {her lashes are nicer, I get it…but whatevs}. After trying various combos, I think I’ve found the right combination: Covergirl Lashblast Waterproof and L’Oreal Extra Volume Collagen.

I had originally intended to do a huge tutorial for this. However, I don’t know how interested you all would be in that. So, if you are, drop me a line and I will {hopefully} be able to get one up complete with pictures, and daily wear reviews of about 3 different types of mascara soon.

Anywho, back to it. I always use a waterproof mascara as my base. Why? It’s more waxy and holds a curl better. I have super straight lashes and no curl whatsoever. I never have and I never will. To be honest, the whole eyelash perming thing freaks ma freak. So, I had to devise a way to hold the curl.

This is what I do for my first set of steps:

1.) Heat a Shu Uemura eyelash curler for 5 seconds infront of a hairdryer on low heat

2.) Curl right eye from the base, and clamp three times working my way to the top

3.) Apply 1 coat of waterproof mascara to my right lashes

4.) Repeat for the left

I let the waterproof dry completely. This is very important, otherwise you’re likely to end up all clumpy, and nobody wants that.

Putting the waterproof aside, I can begin to use the regular mascara overtop.

5.) Put 1 coat of regular mascara overtop of waterproof. Let dry.

Again, letting it dry is imperative. I know what you’re all going to say “Canadian Girl, don’t curl your lashes while they’ve got mascara on them”. Know what? Eff that. I’m doing it anyway. I’ve been doing it since high school and have never had a problem.

6.) Heat eyelash curler for 5 seconds infront of a hairdryer on low heat

7.) Curl right lashes, just at the base

8.) Apply 1 coat of regular mascara to the under and top of the lashes. The top will help to elongate the lashes

9.) Repeat on the left lashes

Once you’ve done this, ensure it’s dry; perhaps go about finishing off the rest of your makeup.

10.)One final full curl of both lashes with a heated curler. Make sure you clamp 3 times, from the bottom to the top.

This process works for me 100% of the time, with the exception of those rainy days when I just can’t get the lashes to stay straight. My hair never works, so why should they?

I do this every day, so it’s tried, tested and true. Besides, this eliminates the need for lash primers which are often a waste of money in my experience.

Do you guys have any tips you’d like to share??

Here’s a link to my post with a “lash porn” pic in it. I’m so hilarious, it hurts.

*** why is the font wonky? who knows. You'll just have to deal

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Off the Band Wagon. Eff.

2010-02-16T09:11:00.000-05:00

So. I went off the Falls. Lit-er-al-ly. I spent WAY too much money this weekend.

I don't even know what I'm going to do. It's like I see a sale and I can't pass it up.

I think I'm going to have to use my trip savings to pay this off. Goodbye Mexico, Hello Bargains.

Eff my life.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Happy V Day!!!

2010-02-14T11:00:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. It's somewhat of an over the top, consumerist and overall pretty lame holiday. But there is one thing that it's not: a lame excuse to tell those you love how you really feel.

So, if you have a significant other or not, remember that V day is for EVERYONE you love. Don't just tell them once a year that you love them; be sure to do it every day. But make them feel extra special today.

I love you all!!

Happy V day!!

Hugs (& Love),

*Canadian Girl

Niagara for V day. On a Budge.

2010-02-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

As you all know, I'm heading to Niagara with S for Valentine's Day. I'm not one to be romantic AT all, but I think it'll be a fun and way over-due little getaway.

I know what you're all thinking "Canadian Girl, you're trying to pay down your debt, how are you affording this?". Well, I'm actually taking the money from my company stock plan to pay for this. I have a little bit deducted each paycheque, and with that amount a small portion of company shares are purchased quarterly. Since our stock isn't doing so well right now, it's more of a "fun fund" for me than really a way to profit in the stock market.

Here is the breakdown of the Niagara $$$:

$454 from stock sale
- $129 (converts to $ 120 USD)
- $220 (hotel cost divided by 2)

This leaves me $105 to play around with for meals and extras.

I should be able to do it, and will for sure post an update when we get back.

I think we'll be heading into the States today to shop and I'm absolutely 100% NOT going to buy anything unless it's a staple for work or a huge bargain that I can't find at home when I actually need it later.

Wish me luck, lovers!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

More Dollaz for Debt.

2010-02-12T13:53:00.000-05:00

Got paid today. Woot woot!!!

I also managed to sell a Cole Haan purse I no longer use for $110. All that, plus $416.42 from my pay this month went to the credit line for a grand total of $527.42.

So far so good for debt repayment. I'm only $473.58 away from my $1000 goal for February. Hopefully I can come in a little under budge this weekend in Niagara and use that little bit more to boost my debt repayment.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

CONTEST GIVEAWAY FROM KRYSTAL: Win a copy of QuickTax Standard!

2010-02-10T10:36:00.002-05:00

Krystal over at Give Me Back My Five Bucks is giving away a copy of Quick Tax Standard {ok, so the title of the post wasn't original. Sue me.}. I'm so debating doing my own taxes this year. However, I worry that I could mess the whole thing up, get audited and end up someone's b**ch in jail. For serious.

What if I skipped out on some super important part of my filings and totally over claim and get a huge refund and then have to give it back, meanwhile I'm with Big Bertha in a jail cell! You hear me?? Maybe it's over-kill, but either way, I'm totes reluctant to do my own taxes.

How many of you do your own taxes? How easy/hard is it, and what have your experiences been?

Here is Krystal's post if you'd like to enter too. Or not, cause I wanna win....mmmmmk?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

I'm Alive.

2010-02-09T08:37:00.001-05:00

As I was reminded last night by Carla over at My 1/2 Dozen Daily, I didn't post an update from the weekend.

Well, I'll eat my words. I totally love skiing. I didn't think I'd be much good at it, but as it turns out, I love it - I've even asked Daddy Canadian Girl to take me next week!

We're hoping to make this an annual girls' weekend, so I want to graduate from the bunny hills next year and be able to kick it with the serious skiiers. I don't think the Olympics are going to be calling my name anytime soon, but I surely had fun.

Oh, and we didn't drink too much ~~wine~~ hot cocoa!

What'd you get up to this weekend??

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Ski Weekend. Oy!

2010-02-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, you read that title correctly. I'm going skiing. It's a girls' weekend and I'm totally stoked to spend some long overdue time with my ladies.

However, I don't know how excited I am about doing it in the snow. I'm more of a "sit in the chalet and drink ~~wine~~ hot cocoa" kind of girl.

I can't help but keep telling my self what a bad idea this is!

Wish me luck. It's my first time doing anything remotely winter-ish and I'm gonna need all the good vibes I can get!!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Are You On Crack?

2010-02-05T10:15:00.000-05:00

To quote my over-educated neuropsychologist sister, do you ever just want to ask some people, "are you on crack"? People just get under my skin. Ok, not most, just a few select people.

It seems as though people will never ~~let shit go~~ grow up. Seriously. Eff you.

I have too much good going on in my life right now to let you wreck it.

Damn it feels good to finally be able to say that.

I made that picture 2 years ago today and used it as my screensaver. I can finally say that I don't have walls and confidence where the walls used to be.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

20 Ways I've Climbed My Way {almost} Out of $14,000 Debt.

2010-02-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

This could be an inspirational post, or this could be a "wow, that Canadian Girl is one cheap B**tch post". However you take it, I hope my tips help at least one other person either get out of debt or stay out of debt forever.

1.) Make a budget and stick to it. I live on $70 per week. I write everything down and make myself accountable for everything I spend. I think the accountability is what counts. There's something to be said for seeing your money waste away as you write it down.

2.) Pay off and pair down credit cards. Your credit card is an aid, not a crutch. Limit yourself to just the "essential" credit cards (for some, it's just one visa, for some it's a visa, mastercard and amex, or combination thereof). Having too many will make it too hard to keep track of your spending, even if you write it down.

3.) Exclude all frivolous spending. This is relative, yes. But for me, this included pairing down my entertainment budget, not eating out, and most importantly, separating my needs from my wants.

4.) Consolidate all of your debt to 1 spot. For me, this came in the form of a personal line of credit. PC Financial had the best rate; make sure you shop around. As opposed to credit card interest rates, this gives you a significant interest rate decrease and allows you to track your payments in one place. Essentially, it's a "one-stop-shop".

5.) Have a coin/bill jar. This is where I put my coins - not only does it make my wallet weigh less, but it serves as a little extra to put towards my debt each month. I also put my bills in here when I'm under budget each week. I count it up once a month, and apply that lump sum to my debt.

6.) Clip coupons. It may be pennies in savings, but those coins get added to the coin jar and help me knock down my debt.

7.) Have a personal "no spend" challenge. For me, this is 3 days a week, or 12 a month. This adds up and allows me to come in under budget more often than not.

8.) Use up everything you have before you buy new. So simple, but this is a great way to save money. You'd be surprised how many people won't look thru their cupboards and containers before they hop out to the store to buy a replacement. This has been great for me - look at it this way: I haven't bought shampoo for over a year and a half. Think of the savings there alone.

9.) Take tips from tv, magazines and perhaps other PF bloggers, and repurpose them to fit your lifestyle. I can't take credit for any of the above or below tips; they've all come - in one way or another - from a different source than just my plain ol' noggen. For example, instead of Gail Vaz Oxlade's jars, I use a simple sheet of paper {1 for each "expense" column - transportation, food etc} and staple them all together. This is a portable way to use the jar system, but works in the same fashion.

10.) Utilize your credit card for big purchases (or small ones) for the cash back or points value but ONLY when you've saved up or have the money to make the purchase in the first place. Again, this is simple and a sure way to keep from spending out of your means.

11.) Don't order alcohol when eating out. Have you seen the price of a glass of wine? I can get the bottle for $2 more. 'nuff said.

12.) Don't eat out or go out to clubs or bars unless there's a special occasion. We have to do everything in moderation AND have a social life. You'll go crazy if you don't. However, you'll go crazy if you're a party animal but saddled with debt. Find the happy medium and budget for nights out.

13.) Bring your lunch to work daily. I estimate that I save roughly $6/day, and allow myself to eat out once a week. So, I save $24, if you consider a 4 day no-food-spending week. Say you work 50 weeks a year, this adds up to $2,500 in savings. I also drink the office water, and avoid expensive pop or bottled water.

14.) Repurpose wherever possible. My furniture is all my parents' old stuff, just re-finished and touched up with some modern paint and decor. Easy as pie, and with a little TLC and about $50, I had a whole condo of furniture. I reuse bags as garbage liners and go "shopping" in my closet. I love clothes, but I also love the treasures I find in my closet when I mix and match new with old. The most prime example here is my iPod Mini. Yes, I still own one. When it broke, instead of buying a new one for $200, I bought a new battery for $30. I popped out the old and replaced it myself. Voila!

15.) Pick up change. Yes, this may be gross, but every little bit helps. Plus, picking up pennies is supposed to bring you good luck!

16.) Borrow books from the library. I want new books as soon as they come out, but the average cost for a new book is about $20. I could just as easily put myself on the hold list at my local library and have the book for free. With a little time and patience, I have $20 more for my debt that I would've foregone.

17.) Limit magazine purchases. I LOVE magazines; the shiny pictures, the gossip, the stories. BUT, this was a huge budget spend item for me. By skipping and limiting the magazines to only special treats, I am able to save lots of money. I ask for magazines for gifts, or I do magazine swaps with my friends. Half the time, I'm able to find the main articles on the internet anyway. Oh, and when I do buy magazines, I get a bargain: WalMart gives you 10% off the cover price.

18.) Buy non-perishable items in bulk. This allows for long term savings over the course of a few months. For me, I buy gum in bulk packages. It's not something that goes stale quickly, so I just make sure to label when I purchase the gum. I chew at least 3 pieces a day, so going thru it is never a problem.

19.) Save stamps. How often do you get a letter anymore? It's rare, I'll admit it. But when I do, and the stamp isn't cancelled, I always cut it out. I use it the next time I have to send something in, like my tax bill, for instance. It may be 57 cents, but it's 57 cents in my pocket.

20.) Make money wherever you can. Now now, don't go taking to the pole or investing in a street pharmacy. That's not what I'm talking about. Do cash for surveys online, or use Swagbucks as your search engine. Once you hit 70, you can get $5 USD in your PayPal account just for doing searches you would've done anyway. It's not much, but you can see my motto here: every little bit helps.

Well, there you have it Lovers. My relatively simple and easy to do tips for getting and staying out of debt. If you want a copy of the sheet that I use to track my daily spending {a la Jars o'Gail}, drop me a line and I will send it to you.

What tips do you have to add?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Debt Update.

2010-02-01T09:14:00.002-05:00

So, I must say. I've done pretty well with the debt payoff this month. I'm under the $2,000 mark...and....AHEAD OF SCHEDULE on payments!!! Can you believe it?? I'm having a hard time believing it, but the end is finally in sight.

A recap:

$86 - from coins and coming in under budget almost every week in January
$38.78 - from friend favour
$465.32 - paycheque #1
$524.58 - paycheque #2

This makes $1,114.68, $114.68 over my original $1,000 target. Amazeballs.

I've re-jigged the numbers as you will see below. This anticipated payoff, keeping my monthly payments at a $1,000 minimum, will have me COMPLETELY paid off as of March 30th, 2010. Wow. My original January estimate was end of May. I can do this frugal thing for 2 months longer...oh, who am I kidding. Because of this, I'll always be frugal. But now that I have a little room for some savings and fun, I can allow myself a little bit of shopping once it's paid off. I have to make a list of what I want...oh, here I go...getting ahead of myself.

Either way, SUPER PROUD. Here are the final numbers:

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Twitter. The new Facebook?

2010-01-28T13:00:00.004-05:00

The title begs the question for me: has Twitter replaced Facebook for us "older" generations? I know a lot of you likely have Facebook. Personally, I don't. You never know who can find you on there, what people can find out, and you know those pictures are no longer owned by you once they're posted. Scary.

I had Facebook. Yes, I'll admit it. When I was in university, it was our prime method of communication. Hell, even people from high school added me. I didn't like you then, I don't like you now. BUT, I was always too nice to deny a friend request. It made me feel mean to do so. I was letting people in on my life who otherwise wouldn't have a single clue what I was up to. This was creepy to me.

I also had friends who would, instead of calling or texting, leave me a Facebook message. Sorry. A few things wrong here:

1.) You can't be bothered to pick up the phone, but can somehow log on to your computer, type and post a message?
2.) I don't sit in front of my computer all day. Nor should you. Get a life.

I made the decision to delete Facebook when I begun my career. It was a smart move, at least for me. As I said to myself when I hit the delete button, the important people have kept in touch. Those that haven't? Well I didn't really like you that much anyway. Any cute albums on there - I get a link sent to me by my friends. Besides, pics are all I'd really wanna see anyway. I don't really give a rats what you're up to on a Friday night. I have my own life.

However, I have Twitter and LOVE it. I follow tons of people (fave bloggers included), get caught up on some ex-Facebook friends' lives, but rarely post. Does this make me a hypocrite? Am I hypocritical for skipping out on one wildly famous social networking site only to substitute it for another? I don't know. But I'm for sure more anonymous and only let people in on the moments and events in my life that I choose for them to see; no pictures posted and tagged that I wouldn't have otherwise wanted. It's working for me so far.

What about you? Twitter or Facebook? Or both?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

OMG HIGH-larious. Heidi. Montag. Spoof

2010-01-27T20:48:00.002-05:00

This video is f'kin awesome.

I'll admit I would love a little nip and tuck here or there, but this spoof just makes fun of Heidi's overage on the plastic surgery in the best way possible.

Enjoy!

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Dollaz for Debt.

2010-01-27T10:15:00.000-05:00

I think I'm doing SUPER well this month with debt repayment. I get paid this Friday, so I can give you a more thorough update and promise I will.

I have even done something for a friend this month to make some extra cash. No, not that. Get your mind out of the gutter. I have been using my beauty talent to make some dollaz. It's not much in my pocket since I don't want to mark up the cost too much - she's a close friend and long-time "client" - but it's extra cash. That's what I have to focus on, right?? It's only about $30.

I've also come under budget a few weeks. This works out to roughly $30 per week, and I know it's happened for at least 2 weeks in a row.

So, rough tally of extra dollaz for debt:

$30 * 2 = $60
$30 from beauty favour = $30
wrapping loose change = $15

Total = $105

I'll keep you all posted and let you know how that goes. This Friday I should have a better idea of where I am in terms of not only my regular payments, but my extra contributions. I am almost 100% certain the debt will be under $2000 as of Friday. WOOT! 2010 without a credit line balance, here I come.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

Debt. Eff.

2010-01-27T08:58:00.000-05:00

Seriously. This debt is consuming me. It's not much, I know. I think it's just because I'm nearing the final tail end of the payoff and I can taste that freedom of never making a debt payment again.

I feel gross inside and I have a constant knot in my stomach and question EVERY SINGLE purchase.

S wants to go to away for V-day. It would be a cheap weekend; like accomodations under $210 each, with a voucher for food included. I cashed in my work stock (price was dropping and I was losing money...and to think, I still work here....), so I know I have the money, and the fact that it's matched 1/3 by the company means some of it is free money. I can afford this. I have to let myself have a little fun, despite my trepedation and my debt payoff knot in my stomach.

Will this ever get better? Or do I have to wait until the debt is gone?

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl

I am a Canadian Girl. And a MAC addict.

2010-01-26T09:17:00.002-05:00

Yes, I love Apple computers. But that's not the Mac I'm referring to. I'm talking makeup here. I LURVE MAC. I have a Pro card, so I get 30% off. Who wouldn't take that? With the discount, it makes professional product affordable. I have a few super fave products that I use every day.

MAC Paint in Bare Canvas. I use this on my eyes EVERY day. It adds just a hint of shimmer to brighten up my eyes, and acts as a base if I put some eyeshadow over it. I use it daily with just my mascara and the occasional eyeshadow overtop to beef up the look, so to speak. It brightens me up and makes me look awake.

*image courtesy of polyvore.com

Omega eyeshadow. Not only do I use it to put a bit of a shadow on my eye, but I use it to fill in the brows too. Since I'm a brunette, works like a charm. I also use it to blend when I have multiple colours on my eyes and need to blend in a bright colour to ensure harsh lines aren't visible. So versatile. If you have one MAC shadow in your collection, get this one.

*image courtesy of My_Makeup_Reviews

This liquid liner is great. I love the brush; it creates such a fine line and lasts thru EVERYTHING.

Don't let the small size fool you, it lasts about a year with almost every day use. I want to try the eyeliner in the pot. I will get around to that and post about it later.

*image courtesy of polyvore.com

The BEST nude colour of all. In my humble opinion, at least. MAC's Blankety. It is a great base for other lip colours (great with a gloss overtop - looks great under almost e-v-e-r-y gloss colour) and is super moisturizing. Since it's winter here, I have to use a lip balm of some kind under it, but I'm sure I won't have to in the summer. AMAZING.

*image courtesy of makemeheal.com

I'm not a huge fan of MAC mascara. It doesn't do as good a job as the cheaper drugstore brands, at least for me. This does, however, also seem to be the consensus among makeup bloggers as well. I'm a fan of L'oreal's Collagen mascara. I used to be a die hard Voluminous user and they've topped even Voluminous now. I didn't think it was possible. Amazeballs.

Anywho, a little eyeball porn for ya. I kid, I kid. Just a pic below that showcases my daily beauty regimen of sorts.

In the pic I am wearing:
- MAC paint in Bare Canvas
- MAC eyeshadow in Omega for the crease and for my brows
- Stila Eye Kajal in Onyx for eyeliner (plain black, obv)
- Covergirl Lashblast Mascara in waterproof to hold a curl, with 2 coats of L'oreal Collagen on top
- I use a Shu Umera eyelash curler (SOOOOOOO worth the money. Go buy it. RUN. NOW!)

I should mention that yes, I'm wearing my Blankety lipcolour with Nymphette gloss overtop. I have MAC bronzer on my face, and MAC Cream Colour Base in Fabulush (looks orange, but gives a great hue once on an olive skin tone).

To give you an idea of my specs to see if the look will work for you, I have olive skin (see above. DUH!), brown eyes (again, pic. DUH!), and am a brunette. This look should work if you have similar specs.

If you like this look and want more tips, email me. Or, if you have ideas for another makeup post, email me too. I can also provide links to purchase the products if you want; just leave a comment and let me know.

Hugs,

*Canadian Girl