No Spend May

I am going to try a little something new this month. I don't know how it will work out but it's worth a shot. I'm going to avoid spending any unnecessary money during the month of May. Since going back to work I took a pay cut by only working 32 hours a week. I also have serious spending issues. Both of these make it very difficult to save any money. I didn't save a penny in April and I'm feeling pretty guilty about it. Although I love all the new things I was able to purchase for Jack he didn't need any of them. Same goes for me. I've bought things for myself that I did not need. I'm the kind of girl that buys things because I think I deserve them and work hard for them when in fact I can barely remember what I buy. I have closets overflowing with stuff, cabinets overflowing with makeup and hair care products. What really matters is not buying insignificant stuff. It is the people who love and care for you that matters. 

I've decided not to spend anything unnecessary but there will be 2 purchases for my mother and mother in law for Mother's Day. 

What I won't be spending cash on:

- Eating out

- Coffee

- Clothes

- Shoes

- Accessories

- Toys for Jack

- Clothes for Jack

- Make up

- Cable- We already canceled cable last month and we are already saving $53 a month.

- Anything from Home Goods because I'm addicted

I will admit I have several gift cards. I am not opposed to using them this month. I'm no saint! I have some Dunkin Donuts, Starbucks, Macy's and some local restaurants I will probably use during the month.

In addition to my spending freeze I plan on doing some of the following to help save cash.

- Clip coupons

- Use on line garage sales and consignment shops to try and sell our unnecessary items

- Meal planning

Has anyone participated in anything like this?

Tips and hints on ways to save?

Wish me luck!