Let's Talk Money

Ok I've turned into a super-nerd when it comes to money.  I have discovered I LOVE LOVE LOVE budgeting.  Yes, I'm weird.  I know. 
I'm on a Babycenter chat board that talks all about money and finance and budgeting, and that's kind of what got me started.  I realized just how sad me and C's financial situation was.  Not that it was terrible, because it wasn't.  We've never had a problem paying bills, or even paying for anything that we wanted, really.  With both of us working, especially, money wasn't much of an issue for us.  Then we cut down to one income, and life got hard.
I was always under the impression that "budgeting" was simply listing out your mandatory monthly bills, and as long as you can make those payments, you're in good shape.  How not-true this is.  You have to make your money work for you. 
I've learned about how important a REAL budget is.  You know, one that lists out every single expense that might ever come up, and have a plan for it.  Then, there is no need to use credit cards.
I've learned debt is bad news.  (Duh.)
I've learned how important an emergency fund is.
I've learned that being financially prepared to buy a house BEFORE you buy is a good idea. 
I've learned there's no such thing as a simple savings account; you should always be saving for a specific purpose.

Since we decided to have this "Total Money Makeover", we have payed off thousands of dollars in credit card and student loan debt. 
When we get our paychecks now, I immediately allocate every cent to a specific purpose.
I no longer dread what horrid disaster might hit us financially, because we've got a plan.

Ok seriously, I need a hobby.  This is what gets me excited.  Budgeting.  Ha ha.