I was in debt pretty much but decided to pay off most of my credit cards and actually froze them in a block of ice. I have a couple of cards that I use from time to time but I pay a lot more than the minimum each month and I'm below the halfway to my limit mark. As long as my bills are paid I can afford to buy myself something to reward myself for the hard work I do. I get a bonus every month and I put that right into savings. Right now I am saving for an upcoming trip in October (don't know where I'm going... it'* a birthday surprise) and also for a new a/c unit before next March. Mine quit working right after I returned from Chicago in July and it would freeze over. I didn't use it for a long time but then we had the heat wave and I used it a little here, little there but never enough to completely wipe the unit out. I kept the temps on 78* to get by.

There are simple ways to cut back. When you go shopping use a list and stick to it. Budget your money. Perhaps you can refinance the vehicle and get a better rate. We do a lot of refinancing and our loans have gap coverage built in so our insureds can cancel the coverage they purchased for $400 to $1100 and get a refund. Plus you wouldn't have a payment due for another 45 days or so. Keep your thermostat at the same temps, turn off lights when not in the room. Sell stuff on Ebay to get a little extra pocket money. IF there is something you know you want.... save for it.

That is my 1 cent.... I'm on a budget

I always though you didn't have to sell anything, you could always buy them out and keep the item. If you couldn't buy them out, THEN you'd have to sell it?

Correct.

it also depends if the spouse had a job or was just a drain to the money you made. In my case I made out better then my ex because she didn't have any income contributing to the marriage and I had paperwork to back it up. I hate to say this but if you get married document closely the expense to income level for both you and your spouse and also Items bought before the marriage are exempt from the divorce