The Show Has Awakened Me
So, how have things changed for me after the Bank of Mom & Dad?
Well, it’s been about two weeks since we’ve filmed the show and I’ve made a few changes in regards to my finances. I definitely don’t buy as much wine anymore. I’m more aware of parking restrictions and ticketing – I’m looking into selling my car. I am definitely looking to make a new start in my life, whether that’s a new apartment, a new city, a new job… The show has awakened me in a way that I want to better myself, my finances, and becoming gainfully employed so that I can take care of my situation. It has pushed me to tap into all of my natural abilities and skills to maintain a healthy financial situation. I am no longer in denial, understand the task at hand. I am developing the steps and goals to get started on payment plans, living frugally, and within my means.
In all honesty, the show has put my other family members under some nervous pressure. It’s not every day that a family likes to air out their dirty laundry — especially when it comes to money. I have understandably dealt with some levels of contention and opposition from some family members who disagree with my choice to share my debt with the world. I completely understand this because as the show gets close to airing, I’m a bit nervous too! Did I make the right choice?
After appearing on the The View, where I was able to meet Harry Connick Jr., Whoopi Goldberg, and Gloria Estefan, my mother and I went to Philadelphia to visit my sister on her birthday. Lo and behold, on the streets of Philadelphia, an attorney named Alexandra approached us in shock — “Did I see you on the View today?!! Oh my god! I feel your pain, I am you! I’ve been in denial too!! I was laid off and I have been hiding out from my family! My sister got my parents involved, it was a mess!” She was absolutely stunned that she ran into us because she thought about our segment all day long. She said that she was so impressed that I had the courage to address the situation and reach out for help from my family. We exchanged numbers and promised to keep in touch — women need to stick together.
Several other women recognized us and expressed how unusual and bizarre it was that they actually identified with someone on television. I have come to realize that there are many of us in debt and that if anything comes out of this, I have definitely given women in the same not-so-designer shoes some hope and a voice.
More to blogs and updates to follow!
Recent Entries
- I Had Become the Person Who I Had Always Tried So Hard Not to Be
- I Feel That We Have Crossed a Hurdle
- I Was Desperate For a Change
- Credit Cards Are NOT the Answer!
- I Almost Had a Coronary
- We Didn’t Realize the Extent of the Overspending
- Now I Have to Prove to Every Viewer Out There That I Can Do It!
- I Will Not Allow Any More Mooching
- I Am Accountable Now
- The Show Has Awakened Me
Saw Christina on The View. When the camera moved over to her mother, I was surprised to see someone I knew from high school. I enjoyed the show as I am also a mother experiencing similar financial situations with my son.
Good luck to you! I have made some pretty poor choices over the years in regards to finances and although things are looking up, I’ve learned that you can never let your guard down! Debt is always waiting right around the corner to trap you! Find a way to keep your priorities at the forefront of your mind.
I think you did the right thing for you! It doesnt matter if other people are uncomfortable with your decision to get help for your situation. Its not their life and they dont have the right. As far as spending goes.. its super easy to lose ourselves in the moment..and get in trouble quick if we have too many moments. I think awareness is a wonderful gift you were brave enough to put out there. I think its great too that your parents love you so much and are willing to steer you in the right direction.
Good luck in the future!
Nice show, but I would like to see more at the end of how the show has affected the person; changes they had made to decrease their debt load. Enjoyed the taste test.
Good for you Christina! You obviously made the right decision. Short story for you: I am 45 and did all the right things from college graduation. Steadily paid off loans, bought used cars for cash, established a 60 emergency fund, got a job with OK health insurance. (Not to sound arrogant, there is a punch line) Last year my husband, the love of my life, was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. Cancer is an emotional catastrophe, and if we had a bunch of debt hanging over our heads, I would have been crushed under this. Also, reality check, his treatment, which will at least prolong, if not save, his life, has cost 228 thousand dollars so far. Get the insurance sweetie, you’re a fool if you think this can’t happen to you.
Best of luck.
I’ve done a dinner theatre show with Christina back in Lancaster County a few years ago. Couldn’t wait to see the show . . . . . . I’m hoping for the best for her.
I found the show interesting. It seems she’s living like more than 50% of other American’s. We sacrifice for what we want, and shun what we need. How many of us don’t have life & health insurance, car insurance, but have 40+ in TV’s, nice cars, and beautiful homes??? I’m sure it’s alot!! We all can learn to put away the wants and the plastic(credit cards) and only buy what we need and can afford!!! Hope you stay on the right track Christina.
[...] Christina would keep up her new budget since the parental intervention only lasted one week, but in a blog update she states that the show has waken her up to her messy financial situation. Her parents did admit [...]
[...] Christina would keep up her new budget since the parental intervention only lasted one week, but in a blog update she states that the show has waken her up to her messy financial situation. Her parents did admit [...]
You should take a Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University class. This course will change your behavior and view on spending money. Dave uses Baby Step mentality to help you reach the ultimate goal of being debt free. Good luck as this is your first step to changing the way you spend money.