Oh, those interests!

Usually about once a month, I normally looked at my 401K, just to see how much I've earned. Same went for bank accts, and e-fund. We all know how the market has been doing, so I have been checking those mutual funds once a week now. I've been switching funds, depending on the market. The bank accounts, well, let's just say my feelings are hurt when I see less and less earned interest every month! LOL! My e-fund the same, and this is my designated emergency fund, you know where you should have 6 months worth of living expenses. Unfortunately I don't have six months worth in it yet, as I always deposited whatever extras came my way. However, since the bank savings interest is not up to par as the e-fund, I have been contemplating borrowing from the savings to fully fund this emergency acct. I recently bought an annuity, deferred, since I still have some time left before retirement. And am thinking that tax refunds, and any other windfalls will go directly to this e-fund. One of the goals I set for this year is to tighten my budget. I am a firm believer that it is not how much money you make, but how much you save. You have all probably heard that before, and it it so true! My mother always used to say it. I also believe in sound and practical spending. I have finally convinced my BF that, packing lunches is more economical than buying everyday. That drinking coffee made at home is more economical than buying (he used to buy at Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks everyday, ouch!). And a host of other things, too numerous to mention, but you get the picture. I don't keep spread sheets or anything like that to track my progress, I'm pretty disciplined. I view my success in not having monthly installment payments and in having gradual increases in my savings. I'm happy with that!