Living on $46k - where the money goes

Job:
Matt: English teacher, speech coach

Ginger: Stays at home, part-time assistant speech coach

Income: Matt makes $42,000; Ginger earns $200 a month

Because Matt is a state-employed teacher, the couple has more stability in their income and a steadier employment outlook than many of their peers, says Ginger.

The couple, who call themselves "planners," consciously found a home that would fit well with their stable but modest budget before beginning their family.

But there are some expenses the Ogles can't forecast: a sudden rise in energy prices, like last summer, was unforseen. "It's hard to factor in gas prices. Every month the natural gas and electric bills are higher. And that makes it harder when you try to plan," Ginger says.

The Ogles manage fairly well on their household income but they are having trouble getting ahead. "It's very difficult to save," said Ginger. "I keep a mortgage payment in the bank...If there are big expenses that aren't expected we use the credit card."

"I don't stay awake at night worrying about money...unless something horrible happens, we know we're going to make it."