One of the reasons why I make it a point to save at least 30% of our income is because we need to prepare for the summer months. Both my husband and I work for a board of education, meaning that we don't have work during the months of July and August. My husband usually brings in some money (doing lawns or transporting children to and from camps).

March is when I begin saving to cover some expected expenses, such as homeowners insurance for the rental home, car insurance (2 full coverages and 1 liability), and at least two high electric bills (air conditioner and pool pump running for at least 8 hours). The money we make on the rents of our rental home, covers our mortgage. Saving 30% of our income allows us to cover the rest of the bills without hurting us financially.

CAREFUL PLANNING + SAVINGS= ENABLING ME TO STAY HOME WITH MY KIDS FOR THEIR SUMMER VACATION