Amber's Personal Finance Blog

I have been living in my home for about 11 years, it’s only been the last three that I’ve actually owned it. 

Well nothing broke during the time I was here and renting but now it seems like everything is falling apart. 

I’ve mentioned my kitchen cabinets before and have been holding off. Well yesterday, underneath the sink, it collapsed completely. SMH. There was some minor water damaged but I think after the pipe debacle it got worst. So I just decided to go ahead and replace the cabinets. I’ve reached out to three organization’s for quotes. I’ll be buying the cabinets from Home Depot, vs having custom cabinets made and having them installed. 

Next I think my fence needs to be done, it’s leaning a bit, so I’m planning and preparing for that as well. The fence is a must, required by the HOA. 

When it rains it pours. 

Other news, I signed the offer letter. I want to pay off the remaining student loan and my mortgage. This new gig should get me there. With the potential to bonus $15k a year, I should be able to do it. 

Well I got the job, not the work from home position but hey. Salary, $105k a year with the potential to earn up to 15% bonus. 

I was confused about which job to take but this one, though in office, I was leaning towards since the role paid more. 

There’s still a chance that the other company may make an offer. If so, I can weigh my options. Though less, my earning potential is greater because I can pick up additional clients. 

Other news, I didn’t win the Megaball, lol. I see it’s now at a billion dollars. I did purchase advance tickets so I don’t have to stand in long lines. I normally don’t play lotto but since the pot was so large I said why not. 

I’m still trucking along with decluttering, the laundry room and guest bath are all now clutter free. Time to tackle the office. 

I spent quite a bit getting my house in order and you know what?  I don’t care. 

I couldn’t figure out why I was depressed. 

Why I wasn’t in any mood to do anything. Then I read a post/article, oh no it was a book about your space and how it could depress you. 

Things in my home looked cluttered, messy, I felt unorganized, drained, exhausted for no reason. 

Then I decided to hell with it, get this bedroom in order, then it was the linen closet, next my main walk-in closet then my bathroom and the guest bathroom. 

I’ll admit my walk-in closet have me anxiety, I was afraid to even start but it took me only two hours, that I broke up, to complete. These last few days I’ve had more energy that I’ve had in a while. I even slept better. 

The most rewarding feeling was being able to quickly find things that I need now in my bathroom and room. I feel liberated. 

By doing all this purging, decluttering and trashing of goods, I realize that I spent way too much money on junk, in the past, most of this stuff was old. 

I think I want to embrace the minimalist lifestyle. I no longer find the urge to have a 100 pair of jeans or a ton of shoes. It too much stuff. I have friends who turned spare bedrooms into closets, I can’t believe I even considered this. 

While in target, hmm I think it was  TJ Maxx, either way, I had the urge to buy this cute little dress. I immediately thought, if you buy this dress, which dress would you get rid of? I couldn’t think of any so I left it. I no longer what stuff. 

Anyone here a minimalist? 

After creating a clutter free clean space, I feel and slept great. The last few nights are the best nights I’ve slept in a long time. I finally got my bedroom cleaned and clutter free, Thursday I completed the walk-in closet. Today I’ll tackle my bathrooms and laundry room. I’m so ready to live a clutter free and clean lifestyle.   

The painter is scheduled to come today to complete the hallway and guest bath. I’m feeling great about this, nothing like a fresh cost of paint. 

Other news, I completed my third interview with one company, the executive director is eager to get me on board, meantime I have my fourth interview with the company I really want on Monday. The second company is moving really slow though . 

I finally heard back from a potential client, fingers crossed that I get this gig. If so, that puts me at about $3k a month extra. That’s contingent upon taking job offer one or two. You know where my mind is going, student loans. 😊

Hope you all have a great day 

I got the call for the fourth and final interview. I'm so excited. This job would be everything I need and want. Fingers crossed. 

The interview with the teaching gig went well. This would be a part time contract gig, I submitted my writing sample today. We will see how it goes. 

I also sent over my proposal on a contract so fingers crossed on that one as well. I'm pretty sure I have that one. 

In financial news I earned another $100 gift card,  tomorrow I'll wrap up another article and that will be an additional  $100 gift card  

Lastly I started on the closet,  it looks good,  I tackled the top shelf, and tomorrow I'll tackle one side of the closet.  Though I want this space decluttered like yesterday, I'm taking my time cleaning this mess, I get anxiety when working my way through this junk

Third interview went well. I’m super excited about the potential of joining a great company with great benefits and making a pivot in my career. Everyone I interviewed with was awesome! 

In addition to my third interview, I also landed another freelance HR gig, I’m looking forward to tackling this project. It’s a small organization that need to put some policies and practices in place. 

Tomorrow I have an interview with an organization to potentially teach a HR business course and Friday I have a third interview with another organization. Things are looking great. 

I also did a little decluttering again today, clearing out three sections in the bedroom. I’m so excited to have gotten these things done, the room is coming along nicely. The weekend I plan on tackling my closet. This space is so cluttered it gives me anxiety but it has to get done. 

My accountant finally completed my taxes, I’ll be meeting with him today to review, the amount owed is $2500. I like him and he’s great at what he does but he’s extremely slow and it drives me nuts. 

I normally do my own but since I had the business I opted to let him do it. 

Other news, I decided to paint my vanity, I’d been looking for one and thought hmm why? You have a perfectly good one, just clean it up and paint it. You know what? I’m glad I did, because she looks great! 

When I bought the furniture, I only bought one nightstand and a dresser. Well I’m going to try and paint the old nightstands. If they turn out as good as the vanity, I’ll stack them and place in my closet vs. buying a new (or used) dresser to go in there. 

I tell ya, since I’ve started redoing my room, I’m in a much happier place. The clutter is gone and I feel so good about the space. 

Lastly, I have a meeting with a potential client today and a third round interview, wish me luck. 

Checking in, it’s been a wild week. 

Many of you know I’ve been saving to get new bedroom furniture, well every time I save the money, I threw it towards my student loans. 

Well this time, I just couldn’t do it anymore. The drawers were falling apart, the headboard wasn’t attached to the bed, so it kept moving, some of the drawer bottom pieces were collapsing. 

This set was given to me almost 13 years ago and the owner had it for about five years then, so it served its purpose. 

One furniture store had its Black Friday sale so I took this opportunity to purchase a night stand and dresser, cost, about $1000. I tried Facebook market place but people were not responding, and I also tried a few thrift stores, with no luck. 

One thing  I’ve learned while shopping for furniture, the drawers aren’t as deep any more, and there is a fee to deliver and a fee to bring your furniture into your home. That’s right, you’ll pay to have your furniture brought into your home. Ridiculous! Of course I didn’t t pay this, I figured the SO and I could move it in, but when the delivery guys came, I gave them water, we chatted a bit (they were from where my parents are from), and they brought it in, and I tipped them which I was planning on doing anyway. Insane to deliver furniture to leave on someone’s front lawn. 

Next, I have great news, I’ve gotten third round interviews for two companies. One is at a skilled facility as HR Director, a position I’ve wanted since graduating college. The other is a full time consultancy position with benefits, working remotely. Though for years I’ve wanted to work in a geriatric facility, and I’m excited about this opportunity, I’m more excited about the remote work. It’s more aligned with what I want to do now and that’s HR system (HRIS/HCM). Plus the company pays 100% medical, dental and visions, there’s a 401(k) match, $400 month stipend, they pay my internet and gym membership, and other miscellaneous benefits. Total reward package is about $95k. In addition, this role would allow me to keep my clients and do additional project work. 

Also, I am meeting with a potential client that will bring in $1k a month, it’s a catering company that need a few things done, and they’re looking at a  long term business relationship. 

I am still writing articles, last week I made another $100 in gift cards. i also competed a User Review for $25. 

Outside of that, not much has happened. Fingers crossed I get the remote position, my COBRA ends next month and it would be perfect. 

Just wanted to share that I landed a mid-level contract on Thursday and a lower-level one on Friday, both are remote.  So I should be able to net about $3500 a month. 

I also had an interview for a full-time remote position on Friday that went well and I’ll be moved to the second round, just waiting to hear from the recruiter, regarding scheduling. 

I’m also scheduled for two additional second rounds with two other organizations. One is in person $100k a year the other is remote $85k full benefits, honestly, I’ll take the remote job over the office, it’s not about to pay for me. It’s more so my peace of mind and the $100k role sounds toxic, I’ll explore and see what the CEO has to say. 

In other financial news, I’ve been able to make about $400 in gift cards submitting content for HR professionals. This has allowed me to significantly decrease my grocery, household, and personal budgeted line items. I wish I could use it for gas, but I’ll take this. 

I also had to pay close to $700 to get my car fixed. I’m glad I have the money in both my car fund and baby EF. I paid using my credit card for points and will pay the bill today.  I’m disappointed I had to tap into the funds though. I think I’ll take the funds from the baby EF since my six-month car insurance renewal is coming. 

Tonight is my class reunion, so I washed my hair and colored it, saved me $55 I’m adding this towards my EF. My goal was to get to $20k this year, and I’m $3k away. 

Lastly, I paid an extra $50 on the student loans. I’m praying I get one of those remote gigs because if that’s the case I can pay number 3 off next month 

I’m back from vacation, the islands were beautiful. 

Now that I’m back it’s time to buckle down on my finances, I got a little side track but I’m ready to get back serious. 

All major bills are paid through September, this gives me time to look for a job or new contract. 

Prior to leaving I had two really great interviews but no response. I hate being ghosted by recruiters, especially if you contacted me. 

Upon my return I knocked out a few applications, and next week I have two interviews lined up. Fingers crossed that something pans out. I get the feeling the job market will be switching to the employer. 

My COBRA ends in August so I started shopping around. I found a few on the exchange but the deductibles are high, about $8k. Hopefully I land a gig and can get group insurance. 

I took the night to up date my spending register and balance a few accounts. Of course travel and food were the budget busters. I’ll finalize every tomorrow. Net worth is still trending positively and I’m finally starting to earn some dividends on my investments. 

Though small, I’m loving how I’ve gone from being scared of investing to loving learning all about it. I know they say don’t watch daily, but doing so has helped me get a better understanding on what’s happening. Tonight was the first time I actually balanced my IRA account. 

Slow and steady wins the race. 

Tomorrow is Juneteenth as well as Father's Day. My dad never celebrated the holidays, and I miss him dearly. I would still visit with him on this day, I’d do anything to talk to him again. 

I decided to treat my ex-fiance to lunch/brunch. He has had a rough 2022, the poor guy is literally in tears almost daily. Since it was Juneteenth and I also wanted to support Black-owned businesses, I thought, why not brunch/lunch? I can kill two birds with one stone, take him out to get his mind off things, and support a small business owner so it worked out. 

He finally realized he needs to get his crap together and that the mother is toxic. I heard him snap at her, sadly rightfully so, something he never did. Even his daughter says the mom is toxic. 

In other news, I haven't heard a thing from either of the companies I interviewed with, I have been ghosted, I absolutely hate that. I was hoping to get some idea of my status before my trip and nothing. Not taking any chances, I paid myself for July. Paid my tithes, mortgage, a $100 on the student loan (boy do I wish I could do more), and my internet bill. I hate not being able to throw more at this student loan. Interest will start up again in August, which sucks. 

I also applied for another remote-jobs, hopefully, something will come in before August. 

Yikes, I forgot. I finished up three articles for $300 in gift cards. I can use this for gas and groceries, hopefully I'll be published this week so that I receive payment. 

I'm so glad that I had the free at-home COVID test. I've had a headache for a few days and that's a symptom of COVID. I was able to take an at-home test and I'm glad to say it's negative. 

I've gotten a little lax with my mask and numbers in Florida are on the rise. This is a reminder to take the necessary precautions 

I have the potential to make $150k a year with a recovery center, the position is on site and three miles away. I provided a range of $120-$150)

My issue is that I do not want to work on site but the money looks good. 

I have about one year of expenses saved, my only bills are my house, student loans (currently paused) and every day bills such as electricity and water. 

The interview process is moving quickly, things seem chaotic and the recruiters can’t answer any of my questions. 

I’m thinking if offered, should I take it for a year then quit? By this time I can knock my mortgage down to half and pay off my last two student loans. 

On the other hand I’m interviewing for a job that’s 100% remote, all benefits are paid, salary max is $85k to start, I’ll get a stipend every month for office supplies and my internet paid for. The position is what I’ve been looking for 

What’s your thoughts? Do I keep looking for a job similar to option two ($85k) or if offered and I’m almost certain I will be take option A ($120-150k)? Thanks

This was a pretty good week, here are my wins. I finished another article for $100 in gift cards, just waiting on the editor to review. I still haven’t received payment for my last article which is weird so I’ll reach out to them. I’m trying to complete as many articles as possible so I don’t have to use cash for anything.

I removed and trashed a few items from the attic. I’d put this on hold because I’m so disgusted. My sister has a bunch of crap on my attic that she needs to come and get. Pretty soon I’m going to take it to her. Get rid of it, you’re not using it. 

I also made $75 in credit card cash rewards that I added to my EF and I landed my first job interview. 

I’m so excited for this interview, it’s everything I’m looking for, 100% medical and dental, monthly office allowance, internet bill paid, fully remote and professional development. My only drawback is max salary is $85,00, I’ll see if it’s negotiable. In addition to all this, it’s the role in looking for. I’m over HR and want to move into the technology side. I’m speaking it, I’m getting this job! 

oh and a contract that was renewed was extended until next month. 

Finally closed my books and I was right, I went way over in the travel category last month due to poor planning. I can't beat myself up over spilled milk, I just have to make adjustments, primary adjustment, be involved in the planning whenever there is a trip. 

Other than that, I either broke even or came in under budgeted. There were a few unexpected home repairs, it happens and I was able to pay all expenses  in cash. 

I decided to run a few more reports and found that in October of 2021 was when I hit a positive net worth. I never really looked at this number, disgusted I guess, but now more than ever I'm so interested in tracking. It's a goal to get to six figures, just as much as it is to pay off my debt. 

As of today, my net worth is $39,799.17 with a credit score of 845, and total available cash $41,852.90. I would have never thought I'd see this day, never in my life I could have imagine a thing like this. Wow! 

I am going to keep pushing, my goal is to hit millionaire status  one day and I think I can do it.  

Over the last few days we got a ton of rain. Just so happen I had a bucket out side and water was collected. I’ve decided to use this to mop my floors. 

I’m thinking about getting a rain barrel to catch water. 

Anyone have one? 

Super happy. Though I have some items to complete to ensure that today was productive, for the most part it was a good day. 

I went ahead and booked my Photoshoot for my upcoming trip. I noticed that my BoA is offering 20% cash back for booking so that’s a savings of $44. 

This trip I took the bull by the horn and made sure that I planned for those things that I want to do. By preplanning, I will save a ton of money. Last time everything was fly by night so we spent way more. 

Day 1 I already listed and mapped the places I want to see. I’ve secured a driver, and his rate. $30. The sites I'm going to, are free. 

Day 2 is an all-day tour, that include lunch, caves, plantations and beaches, pick up, drop off and ferry rides to two other islands  $260. 

Day 3 beach day and photoshoot, with a little shopping, $179. I might make this day an all day beach day and skip the shopping. 

Day 4 beach day and relaxation. I may toss in a massage but I'm not sure yet. 

My goal was to spend $500, I'll have to bump this a little because of food, and souvenirs. I already identified the souvenirs (and cost) I want. Silver necklace ($60), and a beach bag ($20). 

I think this will be a much better trip. Though I'm flying in and out with others, I've planned for myself to do what I like and am interested in. 

By the way, though I used the CC to book, I paid the bill immediately, so cash 🏧  was used to foot this bill.  

Just curious, anyone pick up a few shares of Amazon (AMZN) after today's split? 

I found this new podcast and the first episode that I listened to was about financial bullying. I had no idea that, that was even a term or how to describe what I feel when I say no to others, or how others feels about my journey. 

The podcaster discussed how others try to make you feel a shame or guilty if you don’t do things a certain way (insert Dave Ramsey) or say no to activities. 

I immediately thought about the many times I said no to things because it wasn’t in my budget and friends would give me looks, roll their eyes, make comments. Listening to the podcast I also thought about  the many times I’ve been asked when was I going to do my kitchen, remodel etc? I always felt bad or ashamed. After listening to this podcast I actually got angry. People actually do this crap, rather than encouraging each other, we beat folks down was my thought. 

Fast forward to today. I was chatting with the ex and shared that our dentist had sold his practice and that he should have started the much needed dental work he needed,  especially since the dentist discounted cost drastically. His response was “well I don’t have money like you.” I was furious when he said this,  so I responded, “this is your health, rather than getting new seats ( re reupholstered) for your car, you should have gotten your teeth fix.” 

Well I soon realized we were both engaging in financially bullying. Me, making him feel bad that he hadn’t gotten his teeth taken care of  and taking advantage of the discounted cost, and him being upset that I’ve managed to save and am comfortable. 

What I’ve learned is that everyone’s journey is different, we are only responsible for ourselves, and this is okay. Next time he complains about money, my only response is, only you have the power to change your situation. 

Different news, I polished my nails and toes today, saving close to $50. Even though I’m not a nail salon person it’s still nice to know what I saved. I also paid $31.41 on my mortgage principal because I had odd balance and  I rounded down to the nearest 100. 

Went to Walmart for a few things, it was raining so I couldn’t walk. I used a gift card but ended up going to Publix and having to spend cash because the shelves at Walmart were empty. 

I also booked my day trip/excursion. I used the CC for points but will pay that off tonight. I’m such a nerd, I’ve calculated everything down to the souvenirs I want to buy, I searched online and got estimated costs, lol. I didn’t ask my family if they were interested. I’d previously shared the info, no one responded and I didn’t want to harass someone in spending money they don’t want to. 

The financial journey is all about behavior change, one thing I do agree with Ramsey on 

Wow time flies. Today marks one year since I left my job. I took a leap of faith, I had no plan, and no job, all I knew was I was sick of being emotionally abuse and risking my health. One year later, I know that this was the best decision I’ve made in a long  time. 

Over the year I’ve managed to decrease my blood pressure, later getting off high blood pressure meds, pay off two student loans, bump my savings, drastically, because I was literally able to bump my salary almost 100%. 

Took a few vacations and basically put me first. I’m thankful and I know that it’s only by the grace of God that I survived. Was I nervous, scared etc? Hell yeah, but I made it. 

In financial news, I picked up a few more index funds after adding to my IRA. I’ve applied for a ton of gigs, I got one hit and this weekend I’ll submit a few samples of my work. I was also able to get some work in for client, about $900 this week and $500 last week. The good thing is my monthly expenses are $1300, so this covers July and I won’t need to touch my savings 😀. I was so worried when I lost my big client but things are working out. 

I also picked up another article so that’s $100 in gift cards. 

All in all, all is good. 

Well gas in my area hit $4.75, I’m not complaining because in other areas it’s way more, I am simply turning this negative into a positive, so I walked to the grocery store, a mile each way. 

By doing this I got my cardio in, saved on gas and saved on groceries because I’m limited to what I can pick up. I also took another route which was a little short but more challenging, this helps with preparing for my upcoming trip. I’ll be doing a lot of walking on a ton of hills. 

I’m happy to report the roof issue is cleared up. 

I decided to go back to using my planner and yesterday, with only five hours in, I was super productive. It’s amazing how one small change can be a game changer. 

I completed everything on my to-do list except two items. I’m feeling great!  

Those two items, call Apple because I had a $.99 recurring charge and to call Priceline for a refund of about $150 that was not credited to my card. 

I also had followed up with the HOA “again” regarding my roof. I received another letter, smh. The manager informed me months ago that he had my inspection now he claims he doesn’t have it. So I sent the original email with the attachment that approved the delay of me getting my roof done. I haven’t heard back that he received it, so I’m calling today for confirmation. This is ridiculous 

I’m thankful that an old client brought me on again. Yesterday I made about $500 for a few hours. This week I’m projecting about $1500. 😀. This will cover my monthly July expenses. 

Today, I get to sleep in a bit but it’s still a busy day. 

I’m thankful for every opportunity God has given me. 

I’m so glad that I live in an area where people come to vacation. This weekend was fabulous. I pretty did a staycation right at my home. 

Friday kicked off the weekend with Bible study, Saturday and Sunday were both pool days, self-facial and manicure and today I just relaxed. Time usually goes by quickly but having the opportunity to do absolutely nothing it actually dragged. Lol. 

I also got my itinerary ready for my upcoming trip. After my last trip I learned to plan my days. Day one, they’ll be 2-3 places I’ll visit, I’ve already reached out to a driver for quotes. Day 2, I’m booking a full day tour, waiting to hear from the rest of the travelers. If I don’t hear back by Wednesday, I’m booking my tour, can’t sit around and wait on folks.  Day 3 is a beach day, some window shopping and photoshoot. Day four we head home, so I’ll relax that day.  

I’ll have complimentary breakfast at the hotel. The full day tour includes pick up, ferry rides, and lunch. That’s $245. I think it’s worth it since I’ll be hitting a few islands and chances are I won’t be returning to this country in the near future. Since the family is going on this trip there’s no need to purchase souvenirs. I’ll just get a refrigerator magnet and a beach/pool bag for myself. I’m estimating $600 total and this include the photo and tour. 

This trip was planned and paid for prior to my return from Greece so there’s no backing out. Travel insurance doesn’t cover this type of cancellation. 

I was a little annoyed once I found out about my contract but now I’m excited about going and everything is paid for in cash. 

On a different note, I'm not sure what happened to my Memorial Day post, I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend;however, let us not forget those who made the ultimatel sacrifice.

Looks like the blogs maybe acting up 

Today was such a good day I've been trying not to stress about everything coming my way. 

The HOA sent another letter regarding my roof, this was resolved last year. I'll have to call them Tuesday. 

The day started out with a two-mile round trip,  trip to Walmart. Then I headed to the pool and spent about four hours. I got to read a few chapters of my book while at the pool.  

After the pool, I gave myself a mini facial and then watched “Top Gun” the original. I can't believe I have never seen that movie. 

I ended up ordering pizza, I wasn't in the mood to cook, then applied for a few gigs. Then gave myself a mini manicure. 

It was such a great day

The settlement check arrived yesterday and I decided on the following:

• Save the HOA and mortgage payment 
• Pay my tithes
• Round up my savings to $17,000
• Round up my car fund to $1000
• The rest will be used for the kitchen, anything left over goes to the EF. 

I am going with the bare minimum on the kitchen. I really wanted taller cabinets but at this time I need to be realistic, taller cabinets aren't a must it's a want, and costs a lot more. The cabinets are a must, just not the size, they're falling off the hinges. I was going to replace them during the holidays but since the valves gave out, as well as the refrigerator, I decided to just go ahead and do it. 

Home Depot has a credit card offer. I decided to apply, it's no interest for six months on purchases. I plan to purchase the cabinets, and whatever the total amount is, transfer that money to the home improvement account to make monthly payments. Total will be divided by six, so if the cabinets are $2,000 each month I will pay, $333.33. 

When I land another gig before the six months, I'm speaking it, I'll just pay in full and take the money saved and either pay the student loan or throw it at EF, this is all contingent upon what happens with the student loan forgiveness or interest-free extension. However,  if there is no new gig, and I don't think this will be the case, I'll make the payments for six months interest-free since I would have already set the money aside. 

A client that I worked with in the past picked me back up so for about two months I'll have some income coming in, about $4k a month for two months. This money I'm using for the bare minimums (e.g. Mortgage, water, electric) and saving the rest. The good thing is I got my household bills down to about $1500 a month, including the mortgage. It's true what they say, pay off your debt! It makes a huge difference, coming up with $1500 a month is a lot easier than $3000. 

In addition to the part-time gig, I also picked up a few more articles that pay about $100 an article, these cover my grocery and household cleaning items. 

I'll continue to look for contracts and full-time work but I'm praying for contracts only. 

Oh one more thing, thank you to Lots of Ideas, DW, and all those who read my blog. You all are amazing. You provide such sound advice. I'll be checking those SS future payments and figuring out what I need to do. 

I'm not sure who told me on one of my investment posts to focus on index funds, ut i did. I had been following VTI and took the plunge to pick up a few shares, not much because I couldn't afford a lot but a few. It was a fund that I was watching for some time anyway, and when things took a dive i remembed the commen about index funds  and  jumped on it. I'm glad to report that VTI is doing extremely well. I know it will have its ups and downs but over the last week, I've seen positive gainsand. I have to laugh who would have thought that six months ago I’d be using the language “positive gains”. Lol. 

I can't wait to be able to start back contributing more than the $100 a month to my IRA, I got my eyes on another fund, that's been doing great. 

Thank you all for your help and support. 

I received my $800 payment from my long-term client,  paid my tithes of $80 and I have $720 left. I plan on keeping $500 in my checking account and using $200 towards savings and debt.

I always struggle with how much to save, pay towards my snowball but for savings I decided to round up and for debt I decided to round down. 

So for today I will be saving or paying the below: 

$29.63 EF

$13.04 car fund

$16.96 baby EF 

$15 vacation fund 

$50 student loan

$68.59 mortgage 

$20 IRA 

I'm so upset that I won't be meeting my June goal of paying off my student loan; however, I have to remember that I came a very long way and by the grace of God I was able to do what I have done. Actually, the goal was to pay it off by December but I was doing so well that I thought jube would be the month. 

I think that when I get the settlement check rather than paying the September mortgage and the November HOA, put that money aside. My thinking is I should land a job/contract by then and the money saved I'll just throw it at my student loan. If I don't get a gig well at least I know I have the money. 

Seems like saving and paying debt is the story of my life. I can't wait to reach financial freedom. But is that such a thing? 

God is such a blessing. I’m a big believer that when you do the right thing, blessings come. 

A former co-worker that I stay in contact with visited with me yesterday. I had gotten her a small token from my trip. She always tells me how good God is and that she’s praying for me. We had such a great conversation, pretty much about everything. 

Anyway she had mentioned that she goes to the food pantry because she still hasn’t found work. She also mentioned that she is now vegan and that when she gets meat she gives it to her neighbors. 

Well today she called and said she had meat for me. I couldn’t believe it. Apparently at the party your can’t pick and choose everything is in a box. So rather than trashing she shares. 

The funny thing is I walked to the grocery store looked at the meat and thought this is so expensive, I’ll wait until I go to Wal*mart and low and behold she calls to tell me she has meat for me. 

God is awesome. 

All before 9 am I managed to walk two miles going to the grocery store, complete an article for a $100 gift card, send two follow-up emails, apply for a few jobs,  updated my MSMoney software with my spending and updated my planner. 

I was able to pick up some BOGO items, rice and cereal. This works out because I can add the cereal to my hurricanes supplies. I also picked up some grapes, total spent was  $8.30. So essentially I got five items at about $1.66 each. Not bad given to cost of food. Next week I’ll have to drive because water is 3 for $10 and I’m stocking up for hurricane season. 

By walking to the store I not only get my exercise in but save on gas as well. 

Getting back from vacation was tough, adjusting to the time change and just getting back to the groove of things was so challenging. I really was demotivated to do anything these last few weeks. 

Checked my credit score and I'm at 845. I can't believe it. I know Dave Ramsey is against credit scores but I'm here for it. I have paid off a ton of debt that has helped this number increase. Periodically I use my credit cards and pay them off immediately so that they don't close. 

I'm hoping that once I get this debt paid off I can get a rental property, so I want to maintain my score. 

I remember just a few years back being in the 600s.