Well it's been a while. But finally, finally my debts are reducing, thanks to loads of hard work and a book deal  (more about this in another blog ).

I've managed to stick to five rules, and I can tell you - they were tough.

1) No more clothes - only buy to replace something that's either too old (is falling apart) or doesn't fit. Have learned to view the fashion and beauty industry with cyncism. In fact when I see an incredibly groomed woman with loads of shopping bags I'm more inclined to worry about her credit card bills!

2) Eat in more - the occasional coffee or meal out is fine, but limit it to twice a month. Learn to cook!

3) Use discount vouchers - my bank account comes with loads of added extras that I'd near on forgotten about. Only last week I saved £80 on a pair of prescription glasses.

4) Be loyal - shopping in Sainsbury once a week has really boosted our Nectar balance. The result is that we have enough points to buy presents and food for the festive hols. Will probably save about £100 doing this.

5) No more credit - I've avoided putting anything on the never never. Probably because of all the above.

These have all been helped by:-
a) a boyfriend who is fairly frugal, his idea of luxury is a £4 pair of trainers from Asda - which he bought using an old Christmas present voucher!
b) making long term plans - we need to move home next year so we've had to think ahead and that means budgeting
c) being self employed, my boyfriend is designing the most amazing website to help me get more work. In fact he's going to get a plug here...  if you fancy giving a website for Christmas look him up at  www.geekarama.co.uk

BTW- I've also -  big gulp - started saving £1000 a month into an ISA (although am nearly up to my annual limit) for my tax bill. What is left over will go into my pension.
Will keep you updated if you want...