A Girl's Journey to be Debt Free!

State Taxes

2011-09-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

I'm a procrastinator (working on this) and a couple of years ago I filed my 2006 taxes late...very late. I received a notice that I owed close to $1,000! Of course I was confused because on my paperwork I showed that I was due something around $20 and I have NEVER "owed" on taxes.

Hesitantly and upset, I started making payments towards this and kept thinking, "I don't owe this, must call them to look at it!" Or take it somewhere for them to run the numbers.

Anyhow, time went by and I stopped making payments because I was going to do something about this, and $100+ was taken from my 2010 return to put towards the amount still "owing."

Yesterday I called the state tax commission and talked to a very nice lady. I explained to her that I have never owed and there must be a mistake. She transferred me to another very nice lady who looked at my records. What do you know, she said, "I see the problem! Looks like an amount of $800+ was entered on the wrong line and the computer didn't know."

So, I am due a REFUND!!! My money is coming back to me!! :) Yes, I'm VERY happy about this. The money they took from my 2010 return, payments I made plus what I was originally due is all coming back :)

YES!!!

The Millionaire Next Door

2011-06-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

Finally, my local public library had the book "The Millionaire Next Door" so I checked it out. I've had it for a bit, and am almost done reading it.

One thing, and the reason I am blogging, is regarding the part where it states most millionaires prefer suit jackets/sport coats from JC Penney and don't spend much money on them. It's typically the people who want to appear wealthy who spend much more money on jackets. Personally, I like nice things and if I had the big bucks to spend on them, I might just do that on occasion. However, if I like something practical from a "cheaper" store, I'll take that too.

Today, at work, one of the heads of the organization I work for was talking about a birthday gift for her husband, throwing out ideas, and then mentioned he needs new sports jackets, and he knows it. The husband makes lots-o-money, and I thought of the book when she said, "...but he really likes the ones from Penney's, and they're only $99," implying that they wouldn't be a good gift. She continued to say that he may like the newer updated iPad, or a newer and smaller camera, but she still has time to decide.

Funny that the timing of my reading the book, and her comment were so close, and so true.

Oh, and I'm enjoying the book. :)

Two Year Anniversary

2011-01-20T19:24:00.001-08:00

Wow! I just noticed that today is my two year anniversary for the first post on this blog! That's pretty exciting. That means that two years ago, today, I had the heavy debt of $24,187 and I was feeling pretty miserable about it all.

My life is better now, in the sense that I don't worry about who I'm going to pay, if I can make a payment on time, or the, "What if my car breaks down and I can't afford to get it fixed?" scenarios.

Being debt free has really made a difference in my happiness. Just recently I bought a plane ticket, concert ticket and hotel stay for NYC. This is going to be a pricey trip...it already is and I haven't even gone! NEVER would I have been able to do this if I was still in debt!

One friend who I am meeting in NYC asked another friend who is also going, "Is she (me) really going? I thought she couldn't afford these trips!?" Well the friend being asked was able to tell her that I paid off all my debts :) That felt good.

NOBODY I know, knows that I keep this blog. I guess it's a way of me talking to myself? Hmmm... I get to tell the screen everything that other people would just get sick of hearing. Well, I can be happy and tell myself, "Happy Anniversary." Cheers!

Late fee!

2011-01-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

Argh...I forgot to ask my guy why Blockbuster charged me $19.xx. I think he returned a movie late which I used my credit card to rent. If it's not my account, can they charge my card?

Health insurance

2011-01-18T14:26:00.000-08:00

I did it! I signed up for health insurance today! Well, I submitted my application so we'll see what happens next. The plan is an HSA with a $5k deductible (yikes!), but now I have the peace of mind that if I end up in the hospital with a $20k bill, I won't have to pay it all. Whew, it's about time!

Car upgrade?

2011-01-17T10:04:00.001-08:00

I've sort of been thinking about my car situation. Either I keep the car I have, which is a 2001 Japanese made with 141,000 miles -OR- get a newer 2006-2007 Japanese made car with around 40k - 50k miles on it and pay the difference of about $5,000. My car is 10 years old this year, and I know I can drive it at least another 3-4 years with basic repairs. This car will keep going to at least 200k miles!

I've never loved the car I'm in, and would really LOVE to have heated leather seats because I get cold so easily, but should I? Never going in debt to buy another car would be key, and I have the money now, but do I want to do this?

It's something to think about.

Too Much Stuff!

2011-01-12T23:32:00.000-08:00

Last year was a great one for me: I got out of debt, met a great guy, learned to fly fish and ski, went to Chicago and NYC, and that's only part of it all!

This year one of my goals is to get rid of lots of stuff that has been holding me back and weighing me down. I mean material stuff. Things I purchased over the years and some even contributed to the $24k that I paid off last year.

Honestly, I don't feel that it is going to take me a whole year to do this, but I am giving myself this long. Decluttering is something I need to do in order to keep my sanity. lol

We'll see how this journey pans out!

Sigh

2010-12-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

Has it really been a month since I posted? Wow! I've been busy working, playing and shopping.

Unfortunately it seems that I've been shopping a bit too much! I haven't saved what my goal was, November only totaled just over $700. Not enough.

Also, this month I have not saved ANY money! I've been shopping a lot, but will get myself back on track. All my Christmas shopping is done.

I also got hit with a case of Strep Throat last week! Ouch!! I had to pay $70 to cover that bill which really isn't much, but who wants to pay to be sick? The pain was incredibly awful too :(

Must try to not be so hard on myself and just let this one go. I do have some money coming in from October and November housesitting/caretaking, but who knows when it will arrive.

Free Money

2010-11-10T19:46:00.000-08:00

Feeling a bit behind since I have only deposited about $200 into my AMEX savings account this month so far. I know I'll have more to put in as the month goes on, but it just doesn't seem like much. The good thing is, I have some money from other irregular sources coming in.

I have been a Upromise.com member for some years now and a couple of weeks ago I requested a check for the balance of about $65.00. Their site said it would take up to 8 weeks to reach me, but it arrived this week and went right to savings. :)

Also, I'm a member of ebates.com and so I can get some extra money back when I shop online. I just logged into my account and they are sending me a check for about $15.00 with another $30.00 pending for the next round of checks!

I love free money!

Beautiful Weekend

2010-11-08T21:30:00.001-08:00

Last weekend I spent some time with friends and relatives going on a walk to see the leaves. Some time ago, one of them showed interest in Dave Ramsey and getting out of debt so I loaned her my "Total Money Makeover" book. I wish I could say she's been working on her financial situation, but she hasn't. However, she did ask me again today what station Dave Ramsey was on, on the radio.

I had a little talk with another of my cousins and told him that if I had started saving when I was his age (20), I could have a paid for house right now. Hopefully that got him to think a little because he is at the age where he just wants a fun and fast car. He told me that he pays about $800 a month on the car payment and insurance!! Yikes!

I really want friends and family to realize what they can have if they don't accumulate debt, such as less stress, security (savings), and the ability to do things for others.

Oh, and there weren't many leaves left on the trees, but it was beautiful!

First Month of Amex Savings

2010-11-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

Just about a month ago I opened a High Yield Savings Account with American Express where the interest is 1.30%. I opened the account with $5,130 and now have just over $6,600 in it. Of course I've been waiting for a month to go by so I could see what the interest earned would be, and it showed up today! A whopping $6.52!

I know this isn't a lot of money, but it is exciting because it's free money! So much more than if I had kept my cash at my local credit union where I was earning .25%.

The other option is to open a CD where the interest rate would be around 2.75% if I keep the money there for 5 years. I am thinking of doing this, but only with $1,000 or so. I hate the idea of keeping money tied up for 5 years when I don't have that much, just in case I need it.

One option I thought of was to set up a 2 year CD, 3 year, 4 year and then the 5 year. This way I would have access to my cash sooner, and then continue to set up 5 year CD's so that I will have a 5 year CD closing yearly and get the higher rates. This is all unless/until I decide to put money in a mutual fund where I would (hopefully) earn more interest.

Seems I have a lot to learn.

Still on track...

2010-11-03T21:24:00.000-07:00

Two things I'm on track with...savings and going to the gym.

The month of October I was able to transfer $1,630.00 to my savings account! Yipee!!

Also, I've gone to the gym as planned, three times a week for a total of 10 times now! This is my fourth week of going and I do feel like it's becoming a habit.

This month I don't think I'll be able to save as much, but should still be able to reach my monthly goal of $1,000.00.

Did I make it to the gym?

2010-10-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

I did make it to the gym last Friday! Yay! I've also been twice this week and plan to go tomorrow (Friday). So far, so good. If I can make this a habit I'll be happy ;)

To be, or not to be...healthy

2010-10-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, a wealthy someone I know passed away due to complications caused by diabetes. He still had another good 30 years or so to live, if he had only taken care of himself. This, to me, was a wake-up call...but I have just started to act on my feeling.

I don't want to be that person. I don't want to be wealthy and unhealthy, unable to enjoy what I've worked hard for. Therefore, I have decided to exercise on a regular basis. The goal is not to change my body, I don't think I need to lose weight...just want to be fit.

Last week was the first time I went to the gym in several months...since Zumba, which I quit going to. I went twice, Tuesday and Thursday. This week I went Monday and Wednesday, and plan on going tomorrow. The goal which is reasonable, is to go three times a week. I know this isn't much, but it's better than the non-exercise life I've been living! Oh, and now I'm actually using the gym membership I've been paying on month after month, even when I didn't use it!

Exercise, it makes me feel good ;)

Thrift Store Shopping

2010-10-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I decided to go to ditch the gym and visit a local thrift store. Reason being, the night before, I was up reading blogs about people's finds that they either keep for themselves or sell on eBay...that was my inspiration.

Upon arriving, I looked at the stuff they keep in cases to avoid theft, then off to the furniture, dish ware, shoes, and then clothes. What I found was a pair of shoes for myself and two to sell, two down vests for winter, a cashmere knee length coat for my mom $15, three great Kirkland (Calphalon style) pans w/lids in super condition for "my guy" who was just telling me he needed some, and best of all..............a gold "road runner" pin weighing 8 grams with a ruby for an eye!! This pin cost me a whopping $3.00 and is worth $200-$300. I researched it online and found an identical one! I feel the store was calling my name for this reason alone ;)

Score!

Now I just need to get these shoes listed so I can feel good about spending $80 there to cover everything else I bought, although $15 was for the pans which my guy will reimburse and the rest I am confident will come from the sale of the pair of $20 shoes I purchased.

I think I will be visiting the thrift store a bit more often.

UPDATE: My guy was really happy with the pans :) and I was reimbursed. Not that he wouldn't pay me, because he agreed before I purchased.

Savings goal

2010-10-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm debt free, I want to save money and have decided on an achievable monthly savings goal. The target is to save at least $1,000 per month.

So far this month, already $850 has gone into savings! The breakdown is:

$250: Paycheck overage

$550: Caretaking in September (just got the check today)

$ 50: eBay

Currently I'm waiting on a check for $160 for transportation services in September which will bump the total to $1,010! Plus, two more paychecks this month and more eBay which means at least $1,500 in savings this month...that's the plan. Really though, every month will be different and this month seems unusually high.

Besides that, I can't think of any other income I could possibly throw at the savings. Honestly, I never thought I would be able to save that much money.

I feel blessed.

Loose change

2010-10-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Just dumped some change into my big ol' pot and thought I would snap a pic. This is what it looks like inside...

I wonder how long it will take me to fill it up! Actually, I don't think I'll wait that long before taking it to the bank. Better to earn interest than just let it sit there :)

Confession...

2010-10-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

In my last post I stated that I wanted to let my Branch Manager know that I would not be saving money in the Credit Union because American Express was offering a higher rate at 1.30%.

Yesterday I went to her branch and got to sit and chat. Talking with her is enjoyable and I found it interesting when she told me she learned a lot about finances by hearing other people's stories over the years. She would think, I want to have that, or, I'll never do that.

So, I told her about the Amex deal and that I took all the funds except $1,000 out of my savings account and made the transfer to the new account. She understood and said, "So you're here for confession?" I thought that was really funny :) and told her that it sure seemed that way!

I had to explain to her that the reason I wanted to let her know is to avoid thoughts of me falling off the wagon and using up my savings when this isn't the case.

No big deal, but I feel better :) I guess it was confession! LOL!

American Express Savings

2010-10-03T21:16:00.000-07:00

Recently American Express has been sending me flyers and emails regarding opening a 1.30% interest rate High Yield savings account with them. Ok, so first I thought...right, I don't want that. But, after looking at my last bank statement received and seeing that I am only getting .25% on my savings of almost $6,000 I figured it would be worth it.

I took the bait and just opened the account a few minutes ago which is managed online similar to ING accounts.

After using a savings calculator online to see what the difference would be on one year of having $5,000 in an account, I see it isn't much, but every little bit helps right?

Looks like this for one year:

$5,000.00 @ .25% = $9 interest

$5,000.00 @ 1.3% = $46 interest

Therefore, I would be getting an extra $35 in "free" money. Worth it in my book, and actually it will be a bit more because I will make regular deposits into this account.

Crazy as it sounds, I feel sad to have to tell my Branch Manager that I will be pulling the funds out of my account and why, the next time I go to put money in there to transfer it to Amex. No, I don't HAVE to tell her, I WANT to.

Really hoping savings interest rates get better, in the meantime this will help a bit.

Children and Savings

2010-10-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

When I was a young girl, I liked selling things and making money. I would be out with a typical lemonade stand, pushing a cart around and selling candy to the neighborhood kids, selling different beverages which parents thought was coffee (it wasn't)...anything to make money. The problem is...I never saved it. Most likely it was spent on penny candy from the corner market! Oh, which by the way, I always counted the pieces I received...if I paid 50 cents, I wanted 50 pieces, or whatever it came to before tax.

Seems like I always knew I wanted to make and save money but didn't have any teachers or role models to follow or look up to in this regard. However, when I was about 10 years old, I asked my mom to take me to the bank because I wanted my own savings account. She took me, and I got one. Unfortunately I never had more than about $10 in it and eventually closed it.

If I had proper direction, I could have had a LOT more saved! My mom is not a saver, and my dad isn't either although I thought he was. I wanted it, I craved it, but didn't know how.

When I was 15 years old I went out and looked for a job because of wanting to buy my own things, and got hired making $4.25/hr. Unfortunately I didn't save money then either, but I sure did have the coolest clothes I could afford!

The savings only started a few years ago and I emptied it when I did the Dave Ramsey thing and got out of debt. It was around $1k. So, now, I start again.

All this brings me to the reason I even posted this. Today I visited a branch of a bank I have an account with, not my primary credit union. While there I heard a lady behind me ask who to talk to about setting up a savings account. The teller told her where to go, and shortly after I heard someone ask how old he was, and a boy's voice said, "Twelve."

This made me remember wanting to set up an account when I was so young. It made me smile and feel really good that this boy was getting a savings account at a young age. My only hope is that someone teaches him how to save and it benefits him in the future.

Hindsight is 20/20

Savings Interest Rates

2010-10-01T02:25:00.000-07:00

You know what really irks me? Current interest rates on savings accounts. My basic savings account is only at .25%! Yes, a quarter percent! I have another "special"savings account which is fluid, but if I take money out then I don't get interest on the remaining amount for a quarter, or something like that. Anyhow, that savings account gives me 1%, and with the small amount of just over $400 in that account, I earned a whopping 89 cents this quarter.

On the other hand, my basic savings account has close to $6,000 and this quarter I earned $2.76 at a .25% interest rate.

This "special" savings account requires a set amount to be transferred into it on a monthly basis from my checking account. Besides this, I am only allowed to change this set amount and add money to it once a year. When it was "open" this year, I kept the transfer amount at a measly $30 per month because it was so close to my debt free date and I didn't want to take any chances.

I'm thinking that at my next opportunity I will transfer a chunk of my savings to this "special" account and increase the transfer amount to at least $100 per month.

Oh, how I wish the rates would go up. Yes, I know I need to put money in other places, like maybe a CD or Money Market account, but feel like I have lots to learn before I can do this.

Work, work, work

2010-09-28T17:11:00.001-07:00

Just got home from work a short while ago, settled in and got a glass of water. I proceeded to go in my room, turn the computer on...and back to work I go. My eBay is waiting for me as well as another side project to make money. Maybe I should do laundry too.

Sometimes I feel like I work too much, but really maybe it's just that I have so much going on. I'm not one to go home, turn on the TV and relax for the rest of the night. I like to keep busy, but times like this make me feel like I do too much.

My ex-BF told would remind me occasionally that I'm a human being, not a human doing, therefore, I should relax and just be...not do. He always joked about how busy I always was. We still talk every so often and he still makes comments about how busy I always am.

I hope and pray that one day it will pay off...

Symphony

2010-09-25T16:02:00.001-07:00

A few days ago I bought my mom a last minute ticket to go to the symphony. I don't know when the last time she went was, but it sure felt nice that I could do this for her.

I'm not much for doing those types of things (symphonies), but they are nice occasionally. The guy I'm seeing suggested that I go with her, and surprise her. I agreed to this and while she was getting ready to go, I was too.

When I asked her how I looked, she said, "Beautiful, where you going?" :) I said, "The symphony." Her response was, "Eeeeeeeee! Seriously?!" ...pause... "Eeeeeeee!" She was so happy that I would be accompanying her. Made me feel good.

It was a really nice show and we had a good time. Afterwards we went for a snack and then home.

Things like this, make the sacrifice of getting out of debt, totally worth it.

Not Much

2010-09-25T15:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I dropped my new phone and I didn't have a phone protector on it, reason being, they add so much bulk and the rubber ones get stuck in my hair. :( Yeah, I know, sob story, but it's the truth. It got lightly damaged and I had to use some E6000 glue on a small piece where they had super sticky double sided tape. I think it will hold up now. It's ok.

On another note, today I went to lunch at an Asian place and my fortune cookie said:

"You should do well at making money and holding on to it."

Thought that was great :)

Cell phone died

2010-09-22T11:06:00.001-07:00

My cell phone quit working a couple nights ago so I had to go to Verizon yesterday to see if they could tell what was going on. They couldn't, but since I pay for insurance and there were no visible signs of damage, they gave me a new one at no charge! I'm sure it's a refurbished one, but at this point I'm happy, it works :)

I had been wanting to get a new one because the other one was constantly acting up. Now I have it, and am quite pleased. Lately it seems the customer service has not been the greatest at VZW, but yesterday they were awesome :). Keep it up guys!

Just Waiting

2010-09-19T09:11:00.001-07:00

It's Sunday, and I've been sick since Wednesday. Haven't been able to do much because of being weak and needing sleep and rest. My head hurts quite a bit, I'm still coughing, and my sinus keep acting up.

However, it feels like I'm getting better since I've been able to get up and do laundry without getting exhausted. :) I can't wait to be back to my normal self, a busy body.

Well, at least I've watched some movies which I never seem to make time for. :) I will watch some more today.

I like New York...

2010-09-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

New York City was a lot of fun and I really like that place! Went to a Mets game (free 12th row tickets behind home plate courtesy of some chick!), took a free ferry to Staten Island, pasta and wine in Little Italy and a quick trip to Central Park on a rainy day.

Didn't buy anything to bring back home, I don't believe it! All I wanted was a sweatshirt but couldn't find exactly what I wanted. Seems like I spent lots of money on the taxis, the subway, the LIRR and Amtrak to NJ.

My friend's luggage didn't arrive and Delta did not deliver it until 60 hours after we arrived which was the day we were leaving. Actually, it took them about 36 hours to locate it...and it was a direct flight!

Poor guy had to go shopping and use some of my toiletries, I felt really bad for him but he was a great sport about it. He did have to do some shopping since all of his clothes were in the checked luggage.

We'll see what Delta has to say about this, an email has already been sent.

On another note, my poor friend was sick the whole time we were there. Our stomach flus were gone, but he had sinus issues and upon our return, I got sick! So now, I've been sick three time within a month...lame. I'm in bed now and just waiting to get better.

While we were gone, I left my car and $700 with a mechanic to fix the timing belt, water pump, bushings on both sides, oil change, brake fluid flush and fill and transmission fluid flush and fill. Since my car registration with safety and emissions ($160) are due this month and I just spent $700 on the car, plus $150 for two new tires and an alignment, I think I'll be keeping this car for at least another year to make it worth what I put into it. It drives a lot better too, since the bushings were changed. I definitely notice that!

I was just happy that this crazy car bill didn't set me back since I had money in the bank to cover it. It was a great feeling when I was able to go to the bank and withdraw $700 cash to pay for the car repairs rather than using a credit card!

Lovin this feeling and hope it stays forever!!!

NYC!

2010-09-08T15:07:00.001-07:00

So much has happened since my last post that I don't know where to begin, so I will just jump in to the present time.

Tomorrow I leave for a short trip to the Big Apple, New York City! This is my first time going there and I'm excited! Relatives of my guy friend are going and told us we could join...and the room would be paid for, but we are going to stay with his cousin in Manhattan.

They've all been there before so know it a bit, I'm trusting them for a great time! They are fun people.

Best part is that I didn't charge my plane ticket and don't need the money for missed work while I'm gone since I'm debt free!

On the downside...I caught a stomach bug and am in bed right now since last evening. My guy friend got it too and we just hope we're better by tomorrow. As of this morning my stomach didn't hurt (since it was empty after last night), but I have terrible body aches and am weak. Wasn't able to work today either.

Hoping all goes well.

It's mine!

2010-05-12T11:18:00.001-07:00

Last Friday I received the title to my car in the mail! It's officially mine ;)

This week!?

2010-05-03T08:07:00.001-07:00

This could be the week that I am debt free! I have submitted my bill to get paid for housesitting...but knowing the history, it could take a while to receive payment. I will get my day job paycheck probably Wednesday so that will cover some.

Exciting and frustrating at the same time!

Planned on 9 months, only took 6

2010-04-20T22:43:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I went to the bank because I had to deposit the $100.00 check my dad gave me and also some cash I have been lugging around. I don't like to have cash, because if I get robbed or it gets lost, I'll never see it again.

So, I went in and the Branch Manager who set up the loan against my car was there and helped me. I didn't tell her that I paid the car off, I guess because of feeling bad for still owing AMEX. When she looked at my account she paused and said, "You paid off your car? When did you do that?" I told her, "This morning!"

She was so happy for me and gave me a high-five. Then I told her that I have a little left to pay on the card. She couldn't remember when I took the loan out and asked; it was in October and at the time I told her my goal was to pay it off in 9 months...but it only took 6! SO cool!!

I balanced my checkbook and figured out how much I had in my account to transfer to AMEX, $450.00. The housesitting check will be coming soon and I get paid again next week. Also, I have $90 going into my account from eBay, and the 1st of next month I will be requesting another housesitting check for about $240.00. I also have to return some purchases and collect money owed to me for things I used my card for. This should cover the AMEX charges. :)

Bye bye car loan!

2010-04-20T08:41:00.001-07:00

The paycheck was deposited this morning and the car PAID OFF! :). What a great feeling! Well, technically it wasn't the car I paid off, but a loan I took out and used the car as collateral. Originally I paid the car off in October, I blogged about it.

When I awoke this morning there were two messages on my Blackberry...one to notify me of the direct deposit going through and another from the guy who sends my housesitting check. He didn't say anything other than the check is on its way. Once I get it, I will transfer funds to AMEX.

Tonight I MUST sit down and balance my checkbook.

Paying off my car...again!

2010-04-20T00:14:00.000-07:00

I'm really excited about tomorrow...I am getting paid! :) This is good because I only owe $346.xx on my car loan and I will be paying it off!

This WAS supposed to be my last debt, but I've been [shamefully] using my AMEX card. The only reason I use it is for the Skymiles. Not long ago I was using it to pay for work expenses which I would get reimbursed for, but then started using it for personal things again. This means that after my car loan, I will have to pay AMEX off...again. It's not that much and I'm confident that it will be paid off fast!

I bought my brother a new cell phone a few days ago. I felt bad that I didn't give him a Christmas present last year, and his old hand-me-down phone just broke....totally died. He was really happy to get the new phone which made me feel good. Yes, I used the AMEX. After the rebate it's only costing about $60.00 which isn't bad.

Anyhow, besides feeling a bit down that I added to the AMEX account, I'm happy that once again I will be paying off my car, and this is not a debt that I can add to the balance like a credit card.

Sadly, I have not received my housesitting check, or a response to my email questioning it all. It is supposed to be $160.00 which will go right to my AMEX card when I get it. Gosh, in ten more days I'll be requesting a check for the month of April...

On the other hand, my dad gave me $100.00 for running some important errands for him which he could not do due to being out of state. That check gets deposited tomorrow :)

Taxes

2010-04-16T07:12:00.001-07:00

My Federal Income Tax return was direct deposited and landed in my account today. I have already made the transfer to my loan which brings my balance down to $346.xx!

I have not updated the sidebar and had put my state taxes towards the debt as well. Total return were around $640.

If I got paid today the car loan would have been paid off! BUT I won't be getting my check until Tuesday...and the housesitting check, I don't know when that will come.

I have some extra expenses I need to pay AMEX :( but it won't take long to do.

It's like pulling teeth!

2010-04-15T13:43:00.001-07:00

I've been waiting for my housesitting check for almost two weeks...the guy that mails them seems to be a slacker. Never even responds to my emails when I tell him how many says he owes me for. It has been a pain for the last several months since I have to wait 2-3 weeks to get the check when I can have it within a week if he's on the ball.

I know everyone is busy...but when you owe someone and you have the money...is it really that hard to write a check and mail it?

I just sent him a reminder note by email. I try not to bother people, but next time I will email him sooner to follow up and I'm sure that will get things done quicker.

On the brighter side...I'M SO CLOSE! :)

28 Days to goal date!

2010-04-02T08:36:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, I've been terrible with posting. I think about it often but don't do anything about it.

The good news is that I'm still working on my debt and my projected debt free date is in 28 days...April 30th! I got off track a bit but do feel that I am going to make it! I owe $1,050 on my loan and have two paychecks, taxes and a housesitting check all in my favor this month.

Is it possible that I can reach this goal before the 30th? Yes, anything is possible!!!

Payday!

2010-02-10T08:31:00.001-08:00

Got paid today so took $455 from the total and paid my loan down a little more. My new balance is $3,211.xx!

Really wish my housesitting check would arrive...it's a big one.

Debt free friends?

2010-02-08T19:58:00.000-08:00

Still waiting on housesitting money and my paycheck, but I had some eBay funds come in...so I updated the sidebar.

Many times in the past I was jealous of my friends when I would find out that they didn't have very much debt. It sort of made me feel like a loser for not being able to keep my debt under a few thousand dollars. For instance, I have a friend who has traveled quite a bit and lived in other countries for months at a time. One day we talked about credit cards and such, this is when I found out that her debt was somewhere around $1K and she could pay it off within a couple of months!

It was then that I realized she is able to travel and have fun, due to being nearly debt free, *and free spirited* :) She did not come from a wealthy family and everything she has, she earned.

She's only one of my friends who can do what she wants...because she's not tied down to credit cards... I'm almost there and hope to travel with her *again one day!!! *We took a trip in the US together once - it was one of the best trips I've been on!*

Extra money

2010-02-04T10:36:00.001-08:00

Today some money from eBay was deposited into my bank account, so I immediately transferred it to my loan. This brings my balance down to $4010.xx.

I am expecting more in my account tomorrow, and will update the sidebar as soon as I can get to a computer (this post is via cell phone - love it!).

Will also get paid next week from my job - and hopefully also for housesitting :)

***We can do almost anything...if we only apply ourselves...***

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Mini Vacation

2010-02-03T10:30:00.000-08:00

It's official...I'm going on a weekend trip to Chicago! The ticket cost me about $150 because I used a companion ticket and split the cost between my friend. My companion ticket was going to expire at the end of March. In past years I have let them expire :( but not this time! - Plus, I think I earn Skymiles as the voucher was issued to me :) - yes...I still have the old AMEX card and intend to keep it.

We are going to stay at a friend's house so don't need to pay for a hotel, just food and entertainment. I know this can get expensive in a place like Chicago, but will try to keep it at a minimum.

I'm so excited, after buying my ticket last night I was dancing around last night like a kid who ate a bag of candy and had a few sodas!

It will be a good time...and great for me to get away!

P.S...My debt is at $4,147 as of today.

sigh

2010-01-31T22:03:00.001-08:00

I've been quite bad, spending money like I shouldn't.

The last few days were spent with new made (from out of town-so it won't happen again) friends and although they paid for more than I did, I still spent more than I normally would. How the money was spent: drinks and entertainment.

Drinks: $22 - they paid for my drinks which totaled more than this, and I paid a small amount for theirs.

Entertainment: $50

On another recent occasion, I spent an additional $20 for winter fun for a cousin's birthday.

The memories and sanity obtained through these outings are more than worth it!!!

However, I sent about $65 on a pair of shoes today. I'm not going to wear them right away to decide if they will go with many outfits and are worth keeping. :). If they aren't, I will return them within a month.

Oh, and spent about $17 on undies. They were all very inexpensive as I went to TJ Maxx. No, I didn't NEED them, just wanted a sexy update.

Oh wow...I've spent a lot! Must re-focus - after a possible quick trip to Chicago soon!

Payday was Monday

2010-01-27T12:32:00.000-08:00

Forgot to mention that Monday was payday and my current balance is now $4,231.xx! By the end of February, my balance should be around $2650. This includes income from my job, and housesitting. :) I'm looking forward to reaching this mini goal!

Also, I broke down (again) and bought a pair of beautiful shoes! These cost me $40 plus tax. I've been needing, yes needing, a pair like this for a long time.

No insurance

2010-01-27T12:18:00.001-08:00

My throat has been hurting for about 7 days now, and about 5 days ago, I got white spots in my throat. Then it seemed to be getting worse so on the fourth day, I went to a clinic to get checked out. I was worried it was strep throat. The visit cost me about $50.00, the doc took a sample from my throat and ran the test, it was negative. I'm glad for that! I have so much going on right now that if I had to be isolated for the first 24 hours of antibiotics, I don't know what I would do!!

The doc told me that I may have mono (!) although it's too early to tell, and asked if I have been sleeping enough. The truth is, no, I haven't. I've been running my body to the ground which I know isn't good for anyone. So, he told me to get lots of rest, gargle with salt water 4-5 times a day, and that the spots and soreness should go away in time. He also told me that about 95% of the people he has seen with the same thing, were University students! They party and don't sleep enough.

Although I'm glad it isn't strep, it worries me. He also said it is probably just food stuck in the holes of my tonsils...gross!! That's part of what the gargling is for. Sick!

Today when I woke up, it seemed to feel a tiny bit better, I surely hope it gets better soon. I've been doing the salt water gargling which isn't too bad. I think the spots are about the same as they were yesterday.

Luckily there is a clinic for this type of thing which isn't too expensive when you don't have insurance. Even when I do get insurance, I will stick to an HSA, so I'll still have to pay for things like this.

At least it isn't the flu where I hurt all over and am miserable!!! I feel good...besides my throat. :o)

And the ball keeps rolling...

2010-01-22T21:42:00.001-08:00

I need to check in as I paid some on my loan with money from housesitting. The new balance is $4563.xx! I don't even think I realized that I'm under $5K! It's amazing...this is the least I have owed in YEARS and it's getting better all the time!

I should get paid on Monday and will be paying more towards the dreaded debt.

I must admit though...I went out with the girls yesterday and spent about $20 on drinks. I needed it.

I'm such a lightweight when it comes to alcohol...which has its pros and cons. It's good because I spend less to feel a buzz...but bad because I have to really pace myself...I guess that isn't a con. I just have to nurse my drinks.

Posting

2010-01-19T21:36:00.000-08:00

A lot of the posts I've made lately have been from my cell phone. It's really nice that we have the ability to do this because I don't always feel like going online to post here.

However, when I send an email from my phone to post something, I'm not able to update the sidebar and that's why it doesn't always match my posting totals.

Today I was able to pay $160.00 to my loan making the new balance $4,810.xx. Blows me away! This time I am actually on the PC so will go update the sidebar now. This is so exciting!

Glad it still exists

2010-01-14T07:19:00.001-08:00

I'm really thankful that people still use eBay! For some time it seemed that it disappeared, but thankfully that was only true in my circle of friends. Because of it, I have been able to sell and make extra money to pay down my debt.

Today I transferred funds to my loan and the new balance $4964.xx.

Payday

2010-01-12T14:37:00.000-08:00

Got paid yesterday and made a payment of $400.00 to my loan which brought my total balance to $5,240.xx and I have updated the sidebar.

Debt free goal date updated!

2010-01-12T09:54:00.000-08:00

After going over my budget for the next six months I realized that it is possible for me to reach my debt free goal by the end of April instead of June!!! I just need to keep up the eBay, bump it up a notch or two, and not miss any work days. So excited!

New Year...

2010-01-10T20:58:00.001-08:00

So, it's a new year. I don't usually make New Year's resolutions because I have a hard time keeping them. After all, shouldn't we strive to be better and reach higher goals daily and not just January 1st hoping it will last all year?

That being said, I (as I mentioned it in my last post) am proud of myself for paying off so much last year and sticking with my goal. It wasn't a New Year's resolution when I decided to get out of debt, I was just sick of being IN debt and was determined to get out.

I've never been much of a goal setter, and I feel like this is why I've never done anything HUGE. Many people think I've done so much, but I am my own worst critic...I want, or expect more from myself.

Not having defined goals makes it almost sad to think that soon I will be debt free. Although I know this is a GOOD thing, I don't have a big goal after this and need to come up with something. Of course I have a small list of things I need and want to do that involve money:

•Get health insurance!!!
•3-6 Month emergency fund
•Save for a better car
•Save for travel
•Take a class of some sort (this is frustrating)
•Save for retirement

Things I don't want:
•Marriage
•Children
•Pets
•Debt (the obvious)

What to do? How to figure it out? I love so much and can't narrow it down. I don't want to start something and not want it 100% in the end, or wish I had done something else.

Hmmm...traveling and soul searching may be needed.

Now I'm just rambling.

~P.S. I paid more to my loan on Friday with money that was in my PayPal account and extra in my checking account. New balance is $5,636.xx! Should get paid tomorrow and will update again.

End of year balance

2009-12-31T16:04:00.001-08:00

I dragged my sick self to the bank today and deposited my Christmas gifts and eBay profits! My new loan and total debt balance is $6,311! This means I have to pay just over $1,000 per month to reach my goal of June.

It is so hard for me to believe that I paid off $17,876 this year!!! I'm so proud of myself!

What was I thinking?

2009-12-30T16:47:00.001-08:00

OF COURSE my balance is going to be under $7k by the end of tomorrow...I still haven't deposited my generous and most appreciated Christmas gift money!

I wanted to go to the bank today but I am sick and the body aches kept me from going anywhere. Hoping I feel better by morning as I have been given tickets to an aquarium and really want to go! Not to mention New Years activities going on.

Got paid

2009-12-29T19:50:00.000-08:00

I forgot to mention in my last post that I got paid and put $320 towards by debt. That brings my balance down to $7,038. I'm still planning to be under $7,000 by the end of this year, which only gives me a couple of days, but I'm waiting for funds to make it to my bank account from PayPal - online sales. Then, I will have met this goal.

My real goal is to be out of debt by June, even if it is the last day. I think I can make it happen!

Spent a little more

2009-12-29T18:03:00.001-08:00

I bought myself a facial steamer which I feel was needed. My skin is not in the best shape and this item cost $25. It works much better than filling a bowl with hot water, putting a towel over my head, and hoping the steam will last.

I'll most likely put the rest towards my debt...really this time, unless I need something else ;)

Xmas gift update

2009-12-27T19:23:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I did a little shopping and spent about $50. Almost everything I bought was on sale and I got three tops and a scarf. Not bad! BUT...the tops are for spring and summer weather.

I always think that I want to change my style..or lack thereof. It's just so expensive to do it! I'm tired of never looking my best. :(

One thing I want to with this money is get a Passport. I don't have plans to go anywhere, but want to be ready just in case!

As of now, I plan to put the rest on my debt.

Tis the season!

2009-12-25T22:46:00.001-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas!!! Yesterday was a great time with family. I also received a very generous money gift from my employer, but have yet to decide if I will use the entire amount towards my debt repayment. Although I know it would be the smart option, I feel like I should get myself "a little something." :)

Got the money

2009-12-21T14:47:00.001-08:00

The check I was waiting on for the housesitting arrived! Just paid it on the loan and my balance is $7,344.xx.

I should be just under $7,000 by the end of December :)

Another little bite...

2009-12-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Today I updated my sidebar as I paid another $210.00 to my loan with money I made doing side work and eBay. I'm also expecting another check any day now for some housesitting. Once I get it, I will pay the whole amount of the check to my loan!

Dave Ramsey is keeping me motivated with his podcasts :o) If you haven't heard him, you really should.

Officially more than 2/3 there

2009-12-11T07:30:00.001-08:00

Now I really only have a third of my debt left! I got paid today and just transferred $330 to my loan leaving me with a balance of $7,775.xx.

If I work hard, I will be debt free by June 30th...that's my goal. Once I reach that goal I may treat myself to something nice...and then save 3-6 months of expenses in an emergency fund.

However, I really think my car is about to start needing repairs such as the timing belt, clutch, etc. This could set me back a month or so.

Either way, I'm happy about my progress and goal.

I'm two-thirds of the way there!!!

2009-12-10T18:37:00.000-08:00

Well...I will be tomorrow! I'm $41 short of being 2/3 of the way to being debt free!!

When I see the numbers, I wonder where all the money I have made over the years has gone. This year I have been able to live without $16,xxx and really the only thing I can think of that is different is that I:

1. I make a budget every month and stick to it [about 90-95% of the time].
2. Don't eat at restaurants as much, but still go out occasionally.
3. Make coffee at home daily, except for maybe 2-3 times a month.
4. Don't buy things I don't need.
5. Don't buy [as many] things I want. In fact, this has been cut back tremendously!

What it comes down to is, you must have a plan and stick to it. If you want it bad enough, you can make it happen if you keep working on the goal.

There is a quote I like, but I don't know the author...it is:

A bend in the road is not the end of the road, unless you refuse to take the turn.

Don't give up!

Christmas gifts

2009-12-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

This Christmas I am not planning on spending a lot of money. Yesterday I bought two gifts (chocolate) and spent $45. This seems like a lot to me for chocolate, but it is really good stuff! Also, what do you get for the person who doesn't like clutter and can by anything they want for themselves??? Food, candy, chocolate, or take them out for a good time.

Over the last few months I have bought a few small things here and there to cover a few people to whom I want to give. The pinch doesn't feel as bad when you spread it out over months!

There are only a few more [I think] gifts I want to purchase which shouldn't cost too much.

I really just want to enjoy the season and not get caught up on who gets what, and the stress of shopping for the "perfect" gift!

Dinner...debt

2009-12-04T07:34:00.001-08:00

Last night I went to dinner with a couple friends, spent about $16. Didn't seem like much at the time, but now it does. Oh well...what's done is done. I will have to more aware in the future and stick to coffee outings if I can.

I just made a payment to my loan of $200 which brings my balance down to $8,3xx! I realized that I have paid $3,000 in just less than two months since I got the loan. Before really trying to get out of debt, I never would have thought I could do this. So cool!

Fell off a little

2009-12-02T00:59:00.001-08:00

Yes, I went shopping for a few items of clothing. I spent about $100. It really isn't bad for what I got which was a wool sweater, New Year's Eve top, a pair of leather flats and an Xmas gift. I have not removed tags from anything in case I decide to return any of it (doubtful).

I knew that I REALLY can't spend time in clothing stores or I may spend money, but I was shopping for someone else so had to go to this store.

Oh well...I will just keep on going, pluggin' away at this debt I have. As of today, I owe $8,575 and am seeing the light a bit brighter!

Books

2009-11-29T19:22:00.001-08:00

Over the past month or so I have been reading a lot more. Not magazines or the Internet like I usually do, but books. It makes me feel good in more ways than one. It is nice to sit and learn something on your own terms...not in a class setting.

I feel like a sponge trying to absorb as much information as I can. It's nice.

The long weekend was nice too! I needed a break from my busy life.

2009-11-26T18:01:00.001-08:00

It is Thanksgiving Day and I stayed home, cleaned a little and read half a book. We didn't have turkey...my mom cooked a duck but it is yet to be eaten. Sure looks delicious though!

I am thankful this year for my friends, family, and good health...and last but not least, I am thankful for finding Dave Ramsey in January. What a motivational source of great information!

I am looking forward to being debt free!!!

Whirlwind

2009-10-30T01:07:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks or so have been so busy, it's all a blur! The move is complete, and I've been keeping up with the job and ebay. I got sick during the move which was really uncool...because I had to keep on going in order to stay on schedule.

I did miss some work, but I REALLY needed to. Of course, I kept on pushing myself, even being sick, which didn't help the matter.

Anyhow, I'm better now.

One thing that made me feel good was knowing that even though I was missing work, my financial situation would be ok. My bills would not fall behind, because I only have one debt left. In the past, I would have forced myself to go to work to make the money...no good. This time I felt at ease...and that, is priceless!

I've updated my sidebar with the new total of $10,28x.xx. It's true, I've paid about $1,200 in the last three weeks...unbelievable! I never would have imagined that I could pay that much off in such a short amount of time!

If you are on a journey similar to mine...keep at it! You'll get there on step at a time!

One last loan

2009-10-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

There is quite a bit I want to post about but really don't have the time right now since I'm moving...so I will sum it up to say:

I paid off my car and got a loan through my bank to pay AMEX.

I'll post more when I can.

Thought I did it...

2009-10-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

Finally...I balanced my checkbook. I don't do this as often as I should but I know that I have money in there, I just never know how much there is. It's complicated, people owe me, I pay my mom's bills after she gives me the cash among other things, and it's hard to keep track of it all sometimes.

So...I had to do it because I knew I had SOME money and I'm so close to paying off my car. After I made all the calculations and figured how much money I need for food and car insurance before my next paycheck, I realized I had about $350 extra.

What does this mean?

I have the money to pay off my car!!!

So... I did!!! Or so I thought.

I looked at the balance, made a transfer and went to look at the $0.00 balance, but instead it said $0.05. Hmmm??? Oh yeah, a day's worth of interest on the balance I had.

My car isn't paid off yet.

I could make another transfer to my account, but instead I think I will go to the bank tomorrow and tell them I want to pay off my car. Then I can find out how to get the title for it.

So now, all the extra money I make goes to AMEX...my last debt!!!

Listening to Dave Ramsey and hearing callers stories has really kept me motivated in this journey. It was just what I needed and I found him at a good time...early this year when I started paying things off. If I remember correctly, I was driving to the Post Office to take some ebay packages when I heard him on AM radio. Around that same time, my local bank was offering a free trial subscription to mytotalmoneymakeover.com for a few months so I signed up.

Really, I don't know which of the two came first. Doesn't matter...I'm just glad I found him to keep me going!

A little more...

2009-10-07T23:17:00.000-07:00

My car loan balance is now down to $243.00!!

Under $500 owed on my car

2009-10-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in my last post, my direct deposit came through and I have paid $380 to my car loan. This leaves me with a balance of $393!

I have officially knocked out half of my starting debt (mid-January 2009) in just over 9 months! -- Can I eliminate the other half in the same amount of time?

All for now :)

And another car post....and a dead camera

2009-10-06T01:29:00.001-07:00

I'm up and it's late...one thing I am thinking of is, "Wow, I can't believe I'm about half way there from when I started in January...and my car is really about to be mine!"

I'm amazed...I thought I would be one year early in paying my car off, but really, it's two years! My loan is not due to be paid of until September 2011!

In the morning, my direct deposited paycheck should be in my bank account and I will be able to pay a nice chunk of money to the bank. -- My sidebar is currently not updated, the real amount is $773.xx and not $997.xx since I paid a bit more in the last couple of days. I'll update it after this post.

On another note, my camera died. I need it. My ebay needs it. I'll have to get a new one and I can't wait much longer. Do people still use film cameras? I'm too impatient for them...and what if you took a bad picture with old school film and you didn't know it until it was developed??? No thanks.

Final countdown for car!

2009-09-30T15:36:00.000-07:00

I've reached the thousand dollar mark, $997 to be exact, for the balance of my car!! I'm so excited and plan to have it paid off by mid October.

Today I made a payment of $200 and tomorrow will probably add another $65 or so.

Now, if my ebay will stay steady (or increase) and I get to keep housesitting...and keep my job...my last debt, AMEX, will be paid off next year!

Home again

2009-09-28T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm back home from housesitting which is nice, but I was so exhausted yesterday from going, going and going some more.

Today I paid another $210 to my car loan which brings it down to $1197. In a couple more days I will be paying another $200, I just set up a PayPal transfer to my bank account for ebay stuff that sold and it will take two days to reach my bank account. After that payment, I will owe less than one thoudsand dollars!!!

It's hard to believe that if I would have just stayed focused long ago, I could have been out of debt by now. I have tried, but obviously not hard enough. Everytime I got a part time job, I swore the extra income would go to my debt but had a hard time sticking to it.

Now...I guess I am just so sick of debt that I can't stand to NOT pay the loans down. I can't wait to be free from owing...

Another $60

2009-09-22T22:20:00.001-07:00

Today I took $60.00 out from a bank account where I've saved up some ebay money, and paid my car. This brought my balance to $1567.xx! I'm getting close to being half way done paying off my debts. It's hard for me to believe that about half of my debt has been to American Express and I really don't have much to show for it...besides pictures of trips and some electronic stuff which by the way is outdated now.

These nine months since I started my journey have really gone by pretty fast, I can definitely do another 9 months if that is what it will take to be done.

Housesitting

2009-09-20T15:46:00.000-07:00

Once again I am housesitting which is great because I get paid, but not so great because I miss my BF :( I still get to go home and see him for a very short while each day, but it's ever long enough. He doesn't like it either but knows I'm trying to get out of debt and this is really helping. My last check went straight to my car loan which is dwindling away.

More car payments & AMEX

2009-09-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

I've made a couple more car payments and am so happy to know I only owe $1,626 on it! I'm on track to get it paid off in October which means I will be one year early according to the original payoff date from the loan agreement.

On the other hand, I am upset that American Express sent me a letter to advise that my interest rate will be increasing due to the economy... Um sure, I believe that one. We'll see what they raise it to on my next bill. Good thing is, they are next and last to go!

Shame on me...

2009-09-11T16:04:00.001-07:00

I've been pretty bad at keeping records lately, so my balances haven't changed much. I should have paid a bit more to my car from overage in my checking account...but I haven't made that happen.

Also, I went on a nice little camping trip for Labor Day weekend and probably spent about $200.00 on it! That was supposed to go to my car, but there is nothing I can do about that now.

Moving on...and thinking my car won't be paid off until Novemberish. BUT...I updated the sidebar and am happy to know that my car balance is $2,261!

Another payday!

2009-08-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Another payday has come and gone. I have paid an extra $310.00 towards my car outside of my regular car payment this month. My sidebar has been updated regarding my car, but the AMEX is not up to date. I have been using my AMEX card for work expenses which I will be reimbursed for, and also some of my own that I need to pay from my checking account. Unfortunately I have not kept good records and need to backtrack now. I hope my balance is still around $11,350.00.

Once I make the time to go through receipts and collect what is owed to me, I will update. Also, I had a bit more housesitting to do and that means more money :)

Amazed

2009-08-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

I honestly can't believe that I have been able to pay off almost $10,000 so far this year and that I have just over $14,000 to go! It truly is amazing to me. However, I can't help but think that if I didn't have any debts, this could have been money saved.

Today is payday so I paid a little more towards my car, $270.00. This brings my balance to $2,992.xx. It's such a great feeling to get paid, and after making the payment, see the balance get smaller.

Housesitting

2009-08-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

I've been away from home this week, house/dog sitting. It's a nice way to make extra money but really hard to be away from your own surroundings...at least for me it is!

Some people get a lot of gigs like this, I'm not one of them as I only house/dog sit for one family. I don't post on any of the "sitting" sites offering these services.

Basically, you just need to take care of things as if it were your house like bringing in the mail, newspaper, milk (if it is delivered), watering plants/lawn, feeding pets and walking them...some housesitters also clean house. Cleaning up after yourself is a must!! Leave the house how you found it, or better.

Sometimes it can be hard to sleep well in someone else's house. But...the money I earn will be worth it...another chunk to my car loan :)

Dentist visit

2009-08-05T10:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my dentist appointment and I was so happy to hear the total of ......... $84.00! My worry was that the dentist would see something more that needed to be done and the bill would explode. Now, any extra money I have will go towards paying my car instead of the dentist!

Speaking of my car...I just made the payment that is supposed to be automatically deducted from my checking account, because it wasn't done. I think it didn't happen because I made the large payment over the phone recently...even though I told the girl this payment was in addition to the automatic payment coming up. Anyhow, it's taken care of and I have updated the sidebar.

Saving postage stamps

2009-08-01T01:57:00.001-07:00

Have you ever put postage on an envelope and then written the address wrong or changed your mind on sending something only to feel like you have wasted the stamp? What to do?

Growing up, when my mom did this, she would cut the stamp out and save it to be used later. This is definitely one habit I picked up.

Sometimes my mom needs me to write checks for her as she doesn't have a checking account and it's easier (and cheaper) for me to do this than getting money orders for her bills. Today I wrote some checks for her and actually remembered that I had stamps from envelopes never mailed, and decided to use them.

You need to be very careful when peeling the stamp from the old envelope. Then, you need a glue stick (my mom used to use Elmer's glue which was messy). Apply glue to the back of the stamp and stick it on your envelope. Be sure to check that the value of the stamp is current...it's good to have some 1 or 2 cent stamps around to make up the difference if needed.

It may not save you much money, but every bit counts! In my case today, I saved $1.61.

Short read - $190,000 withdrawn in $20 bills

2009-07-31T08:11:00.000-07:00

Just read a nice short story, click here to check it out.

Debt Consolidation

2009-07-29T23:37:00.001-07:00

I've received messages from someone telling me about some company to help reduce my debt.

Thanks, but honestly, I'm not interested in going through a company for assistance. My debt is not a problem for me, I'm not struggling, creditors are not calling me and I have a job...and a budget.

Also, after hearing Dave Ramsey talk so much about these rip-off debt consolidation companies, I would never want to go to one even if I was in a bad situation!

Things are under control and I'm feeling good about my plan! Though I must admit, I am a bit obsessed and have wondered what I will obsess about when it's all paid off and I start my 3-6 month emergency fund!

And...a bigger step

2009-07-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

The goal date to pay off my car mentioned in my last post has been changed to October. See, I had just over $1,000 in a savings account (not my emergency fund) that I didn't want to touch, BUT...it was making less interest than what I was paying on my car loan by about 4%. I know this isn't much, but after thinking of how stupid it was to keep this money aside when I could pay off my car sooner, I did it.

Today I called my bank and the conversation went something like this:

Me: Hi, I'd like to make a transfer from my savings to my car loan.

Her: Ok, do you want to transfer the amount of your next payment?

Me: No, I want to transfer all that is available, I believe it is about $1,065. I'm trying to pay off my car loan early.

Her: Sure, do you want to close this account?

Me: No, keep it open.

Her: Ok, it's done.

Me: Great, thanks so much!

Her: Yup........(hung up)

Wow...really? She probably has a giant car loan and mounds of debt and was mad that I am trying to do something about mine. -- Should have dealt with my branch manager but didn't want to bother her.

Anyhow, this is done, I owe $3,435 on my car and am excited!

:) Going to update my sidebar now....

Tiny steps to a paid off car

2009-07-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

I just made an extra payment to my car loan. I had planned on paying $250 out of this paycheck but $180 of it comes out of my bank account automatically in a few days. Therefore, I paid the difference of $70 ... $48.50 of it went to the principal and $21.50 went to interest.

Knowing that this is my next debt to pay off, I keep crunching numbers and figuring when it will be paid off. I'm such a number nerd. I think I can pay off my car loan by November which is about 10 months before the bank's scheduled pay off date!

BUT...this could also be set back if my dentist bill is high :( I'll know soon.

Yard Sale

2009-07-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

I'm so tired of having "stuff" so have been planning to have a yard sale. It won't be for a few more weeks or so. I feel so cluttered with things I either bought or "inherited" that I just don't want or have a use for anymore. Also, there is a possibility that my housing situation will change in the next several months and I don't want to move everything.

Sure, I could sell it all on ebay, but I don't want to make the time to take pictures and list the stuff...I just want it gone. I am so sick of it all.

Looked at my finances

2009-07-25T13:10:00.001-07:00

Last night I went over my money situation. I always seem to know how much I have and where, but when it comes down to adding it all up and figuring where it is supposed to be, I have to stop and write it down. By doing this, I also figure out how much money I have over and above my budget which can be applied to debt.

For example, in my pocket I have cash and checks to deposit, then I have money in checking and savings, but from that I have to pay AMEX for a few things I have purchased with it to bring it down to my current owed balance, replenish money I loaned to someone (very short term) back to the emergency fund savings account and pay my ebay fees. I found that I will have approximately $600 extra after I get paid Monday which amount can be applied to my car loan.

However, I do have a dentist appointment coming up in about a week and a half which is going to cost me at least $125.00 for a filling. Once the dentist goes to work he may discover that my tooth needs more than a filling and the price will go up. I am just hoping I don't need a root canal or anything extensive like this. It's not the pain that bothers me, it's the money.

For the record, the dentist told me that he would not have seen the problem (a shady spot in my molar) during a routine checkup. It's a good thing to keep up on your oral health and point things like this out to your dentist, they may not always catch them!

Back to the finances. It is best for me to put the extra money into my emergency fund savings account until after the appointment. This way I will know if it I can use it to pay my car, or if I have to pay the dentist more than the estimate. I sure hope I can pay my car!

If I do get to pay my car, I figured I can have it paid off by the end of this year and not April or May of next year as I had projected!

Flower

2009-07-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I decided to buy a lovely porch flower. It was $9.99 plus tax and if I can keep it alive for the rest of the summer I will be happy. Unfortunately I don't have a green thumb so am a bit worried about this. Time will tell!

Stay focused

2009-07-20T08:07:00.001-07:00

I've been working hard and staying focused, which is what it takes to get out of debt. The extra funds from my last two paychecks have mostly gone to my personal debt and the balance now is onyl $480!

Last week I returned some items from a MLM deal I never should have got involved with and received a credit of $290 to my bank account today. -- To add to this, I also made some extra money ($70) by helping some strangers move into their new home. It was random and unexpected, but very welcomed by me and my BF who also made money.

I will combine the $290 and $70 ($360) and with my paycheck this week add $120 to pay off my personal loan. I'm glad to know this will be paid off this month instead of August.

My sidebar has been updated, I can't believe how much I have paid off this year!!!

UPDATE! Actually, the credit was for $387 but they made originally made a mistake, so I took this, plus the $70 and a little extra I had and PAID OFF MY PERSONAL LOAN!!!! It's done! I'm no longer a slave to this lender!!! ;)

The car and AMEX are all I have left. I'm so happy about this today!

Changed plan of attack!

2009-06-13T13:12:00.001-07:00

Nearly two months have gone by since I last posted, but I am still on the get out of debt wagon! I've been doing well so far and have killed over $6,000 of my debt which is so exciting!

A few of my goals / plans have changed since then. Last month I did well on ebay and with the help of other funds I had available, paid off Capital One 2. This is the card that was only charging me 3.99% interest and that I had planned to pay off last due to the low rate. I decided that I just wanted it gone...and when they charged me a $39 yearly fee, that was it! I called them and asked them if they would remove the fee if I paid off my account and closed it. They agreed.

Funny thing though, you know when you try to cancel a credit card they do just about anything to keep you? Well, the man I talked to didn't even try. When he asked me why I wanted to close the account I just told him that I wanted to get rid of all my credit cards. No questions asked...and I was so thankful for that.

Now, all I have left are: Personal Loan, Car and American Express. I will pay them off in that order. In fact, I noticed my last post said that I would have the personal loan paid off by December of this year...that has changed. I now plan to pay it off by August/September!!! Next to be attacked is my car which will be paid off maybe by April/May 2010. The loan schedule shows it to be paid if full by Sept. 2011 so I'll be pretty early on that one. Last will be AMEX which could take me until December 2010 and hopefully not longer than that!

It feels so great to know that I only owe on one credit card and my total debts are only three! I can't wait to be FREE!

Estimated pay off date for Personal Loan

2009-04-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

After making out my budget for a year and a half, I calculated that my personal loan will be paid off in December 2009. For a long time I was only paying $20 / $40 here and there, but now I've worked my way up to $50 per month, for the next two months. In July, I'm bumping it up to $225 per month (and possibly more). Again, all this is assuming my finances remain the same.

I struggled with this debt for a while as far as what priority to give it, because the person is not charging me any interest and doesn't need the money, I know this to be true. In fact, the times when I've brought up repaying the loan, she has told me not to worry about it.

Anyhow, it was a loan from a friend and although it is at zero interest, it should receive priority.

Payday...and I'm broke!

2009-04-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I ♥ paydays! It's funny though, because it's not that I'm excited to have money in my account so I can go shopping for things I really don't need. It's more exciting for me to know that I'm one step closer to being debt free!!

A couple of weeks ago, I set up a budget on Excel through the end of 2011. Yes, the year 2011. According to my figures, this is how long it will take me to become debt free. That is, of course, dependent on my income remaining where it is now and my expenditures also being stable, ie. rent, gas, electricity, food, etc. Also, I did not figure any money made through extra avenues such as ebay, the possible occasional yard sale, odd jobs, etc.

So, today I was happy to be able to go online, see the balance in my checking account and pay some bills. It's funny though, because I'm always broke even if I just got paid. I've turned down a lot of things lately such as going out to eat and buying things I normally wouldn't think twice about. My eating habits have changed, I'm eating homemade beans :) and they're damn good!!

Why I will NEVER do business with WELLS FARGO again!

2009-04-16T20:25:00.000-07:00

Apparently I’m laundering money…or something, according to Wells Fargo. Yes, me, I’m out there up to no good, you know, working hard, making money, paying off my debts. It’s all totally legal and they closed my credit card account due to “suspicious activity.”

I can’t tell you how mad I was am at them! I WILL NEVER DO BUSINESS WITH WELLS FARGO AGAIN!

FIRST INCIDENT
I had paid off my credit card and my brother asked me to get him some concert tickets which he gave me the money for. It had to be done online with a card, so I figured I would get the rewards points and use the WF card. No brainer right? Got the tickets purchased, done.

During this time I also paid WF the amount of the tickets so they would be covered. This charge didn’t go through for a few days and since my account was “overpaid” it sent a GIANT RED FLAG to WF’s Fraud Department.

They blocked my card and I had to call them. The only thing their brilliant rep told me was to not overpay my account again. Ok, no big deal. It was an accident, I guess, if you could say that. Even though I had a charge going through, they don’t like that. -- Don’t overpay your account.

SECOND INCIDENT
Again my card was blocked, only a few weeks later and I had to call WF to find out why. This time a different rep told me that a lot of people launder money by overpaying their accounts. Also, that I was making so many payments and charging things, ie. make a payment of $200 and then charge $200. Um, yeah, I used it like a debit card…for the points. Whatever.

He told me that if this happened again, WF would close my account without notice. Fine, whatever. The information received from both of the reps was different.

THE CLOSURE
Within a month I was at the grocery store and used tried to use my WF card but it didn’t go through. I was puzzled. Swiped the card again…same thing. What the?! Alright, paid another way.

When I got to my car I called WF and apparently my account had been closed that very day. The Fraud rep told me something I had not heard from the other two reps I spoke to, which I did let him know.

He did confirm that people launder money by overpaying accounts and what I was told is true. However, the reason the account was closed, according to him, is that I was using more than my available credit during one billing cycle.

In other words, if you have a credit card with a $1,000 limit, THIS IS ALL YOU CAN USE IN ONE BILLING CYCLE. No, you cannot charge $1,000 on Monday, pay it off Tuesday, charge $1,000 on Wednesday to turn around and pay it off on Thursday. You would be using more than what they “allow” you to use in one month….even if you pay it off!!

The rep told me you cannot, “boost your credit limit,” by paying an extra amount than what is owed.

I told the WF rep that I was not told this by the other two reps, which he apologized for, but really it does me no good when the account has been closed.

He also said he would appeal this closure due to being told incomplete information and see if anything could be done… he would let me know the answer in a few days. When he told me, IF ANYTHING, WF would ask me to re-apply for a new card, I made sure to let him know I would NOT be doing business with WF again if my card was not re-opened.

Never heard from him again.

The thing that makes me really mad is that I was a WF customer from 1996-2009 and THEY closed my account due to their lack of their representatives efficiency. This will also reflect on my credit report and could possibly / likely lower my score and affect my open account with AMEX. I sure hope it doesn’t!

The icing on this cake is….I was going to get a $100 Wells Fargo Cash Reward on the next statement. Now, I can’t.

Leftovers

2009-04-16T19:10:00.001-07:00

My BF made a frozen pizza for lunch today (which by the way was free after rebate!) which sounds great, but is a problem...or used to be! The reason it used to be and isn't anymore is that frozen pizza, once it has been cooked, isn't good when reheated. It's gross!

Anyhow, today I thought, I'm not letting this pizza go to waste...again. So, I turned the oven on broil, microwaved it for a minute and then stuck it in the oven. It came out crispy and yummy!

Consumed leftovers & saved money = happy me.

Updated sidebar

2009-04-04T16:17:00.001-07:00

Today I paid WF $250 and my car $180 so updated the sidebar. It's gratifying to see the numbers get smaller and smaller each payday.

I'll be so ecstatic when they are ALL paid off!!

April Budget

2009-04-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: I decided showing my budget on Excel this way is just too much work.

This month I'm not putting money aside for my car payment because I get paid May 1st which is three days before my next payment.

My paycheck was about $750 so you would think I have money left over, but actually I went shopping for things to sell on ebay. I have some paying back to myself to do!

Loaning money

2009-04-03T12:45:00.001-07:00

Have you ever loaned money to someone and they say, "I'll pay you back next week when I get paid."? I've loaned money out many times over the years, to family, and it always seems that they don't pay me when they say they will.

Suddenly, when "next week" comes and they get paid, they realize that other bills need to be paid and use their paycheck for the bills instead. As if they need my money more than I do. Or, because I had the ability to loan it, I really don't "need" it. That's a bunch of B.S.!!

I'm so upset that this has happened once again. I realize it is my fault for loaning the money in the first place, but there is so much more to the reason she (in this case) needs the money, which is why I did it.

We're not talking thousands of dollars or anything, but just $200, for three different things. Anyhow, it's my money and I want it back!! Her payday has come and gone. Then comes the attempted guilt trip of, "I'm going to sell (fill in the blank) so I can pay you, does that make you happy?!?!" Um, no, but that's just not my problem. You borrowed and owe me. Period.

I just wish people would learn to manage their money and not come to me for my hard earned cash.

~Still trying to get out of debt.

On track

2009-03-20T08:10:00.001-07:00

Although I didn't post my budget this month, I've stayed pretty well on track. Today is payday and I know where every dollar is going. Rent, car payment, car insurance, food, WF and the gym. I am leaving a small amount available as cash.

Being focused on getting out of debt has really made me change the way I shop. I'm still shopping for things to sell on ebay, but not nearly as much as I used to. I need to get my inventory organized.

I've also increased my hours at work so my last two paychecks have been bigger!!!

Capital One 1 and dentist are done!!!!!!!

2009-03-12T07:33:00.001-07:00

My latest update is that Capital One 1 is paid off as well as my dentist! I made the last payment a few days ago on both. It's possible that Capital One will charge me a bit of interest for this month, but if they do it won't be much.

The bad news is that since I went shopping for (needed) clothes on my WF card, I have to get that one down now...again.

I've been crazy busy so didn't make time to blog in the last week. We had a friend visiting us for several days which was fun.

Ebay has been terrible this month, I hope it picks up.

Library Book

2009-03-03T17:46:00.000-08:00

I just got home from the library with the book entitled "The 21 Success Secrets of Self-Made Millionaires" by Brian Tracy among other books. It bothers me that people write in books and I've been going through it erasing lots of pencil marks, writing and underlining.

Why are people so disrespectful? It's not much different than writing on a wall in an elevator, bathroom stall, spray paint graffiti, etc. Sure, only the people that get this book will see it, but still... if you want to write in a book, go to the book store and buy your own to mark up!

•••UPDATE••• I just finished reading this book, it was a short read with good info. There are a few things I want to quote from the book as follows:

• Every time you practice self-discipline, your self-esteem goes up. You like and respect yourself even more.

• You are like a chameleon in that you take on the attitudes, behaviors, values, and beliefs of the people with whom you associate most of the time. If you want to be a successful person, associate with positive people. Associate with people who are optimistic and happy and who have goals and who are moving forward in their lives. At the same time, get away from negative, critical, complaining people.

• Unsuccessful people are indecisive. They know that they should do or stop doing certain things, but they do not have the character or the willpower to make firm decisions. As a result, they drift through life, never happy, fulfilled, or successful. They never become wealthy or achieve financial independence. They settle for far less than is possible for them.

A Girl's Journey to be Debt Free!

State Taxes

The Millionaire Next Door

Two Year Anniversary

Late fee!

Health insurance

Car upgrade?

Too Much Stuff!

*Sigh*

Free Money

Beautiful Weekend

First Month of Amex Savings

Still on track...

Did I make it to the gym?

To be, or not to be...healthy

Thrift Store Shopping

Savings goal

Loose change

Confession...

American Express Savings

Children and Savings

Savings Interest Rates

Work, work, work

Symphony

Not Much

Cell phone died

Just Waiting

I like New York...

NYC!

It's mine!

This week!?

Planned on 9 months, only took 6

Bye bye car loan!

Paying off my car...again!

Taxes

It's like pulling teeth!

28 Days to goal date!

Payday!

Debt free friends?

Extra money

Mini Vacation

*sigh*

Payday was Monday

No insurance

And the ball keeps rolling...

Posting

Glad it still exists

Payday

Debt free goal date updated!

New Year...

End of year balance

What was I thinking?

Got paid

Spent a little more

Xmas gift update

Tis the season!

Got the money

Another little bite...

Officially more than 2/3 there

I'm two-thirds of the way there!!!

Christmas gifts

Dinner...debt

Fell off a little

Books

Whirlwind

One last loan

Thought I did it...

A little more...

Under $500 owed on my car

And another car post....and a dead camera

Final countdown for car!

Home again

Another $60

Housesitting

More car payments & AMEX

Shame on me...

Another payday!

Amazed

Housesitting

Dentist visit

Sigh

sigh