I took a long weekend off from both my weekday and weekend job. I was feeling a little cranky, had some work to do around the house and honestly, just wanted some ME time. I spend two and a half days lounging around the house, watching TV, playing on facebook, organizing files on my computer, cooking, cleaning, and doing my taxes. I had four days of blissful free time.
I was very surprised to see that I am getting back more money from the State than I thought and a small Federal refund. I was only hoping to NOT have to pay any taxes this year. My second job and it's expenses get sorted under a schedule C and when it was all done and dusted, my expenses just barely exceeded my income. A few other non reimbursed work expenses added to my deductions and I get back some moola. Good! Yeah! and the money is going towards my severely depleted e fund.
I will say it was nice to hang out at home with no obligations to my time. I know with my weekend job and my hobbies, I have very few days that are not "spoken for". Depending on what happens with my co-worker at my weekend job, I'll have to plan another weekend off. This was good for my soul.
How was your weekend!
Showing posts with label random thoughts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label random thoughts. Show all posts
Monday, March 8, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
Worth Getting Fixed? Yup Not All Furniture is Disposable
I have a chair that was a "freebie" to me. It has to be about 25 or 30 yrs old, maybe more and covered in a green velvet fabric. Friends of mine gave it to me when they were cleaning out the house of an aged relative. I think the official name of the chair style is a "ladies chair". I actually keep it in the kitchen area, tucked next to a small bookshelf that holds a reading lamp. I love sitting in it first thing in the AM with a cup of tea or coffee, the sunlight streams in my east facing kitchen window, or after a full day at work, it's a good place to sit with a glass of something to unwind. The pets, who have taken over my bed and my couch, don't "take over" my chair. Oddly, the people who gave me the chair told me their aged relative used to do the same thing, except that the chair was located in a small side parlour at the aged relatives house. I think it was fate that brought the chair to me.
Itis was very comfy, until the bottom fell out. Actually, it was partially my fault, well- ALL my fault. I used it as a step stool one too many times and the bottom fell out. The webbing holding the springs gave way. Chunky chicks should not use furniture as step stools, especially since I own a step stool that is all of 4 feet away.
I called around, got some names and found a local place that fixes chairs and does upholstery. I am not good at that kind of DIY. I took the chair in and I was quoted a price of $175 to fix the webbing, re-tie the springs together and replace the old cushioning that has spilled out. At first I was a bit taken a back and gave half a thought to chucking the chair. UNTIL the next sentence out of the owners mouth was-"If you want to throw out the chair, I'll take it". Which to me means it's worth fixing. The chair as they say, Has Good Bones."
The owner told me exactly what he would need to do to repair the chair, told me it would take about 10 days and asked for a deposit. I gave him the deposit and I'm looking forward in getting back my chair with a much improved seat. I wish I had the money to get the chair recovered, it would have been another $175 to $200 depending on the fabric. But the fabric on the chair is in good condition and I don't mind the green color. I'd like to think I'm keeping the chair out of the local landfill, I'm helping a local merchant (who by the looks of the workshop is really good at what he does) and I'll get back my comfy chair and keep the memory alive of a departed aged relative.
It
I called around, got some names and found a local place that fixes chairs and does upholstery. I am not good at that kind of DIY. I took the chair in and I was quoted a price of $175 to fix the webbing, re-tie the springs together and replace the old cushioning that has spilled out. At first I was a bit taken a back and gave half a thought to chucking the chair. UNTIL the next sentence out of the owners mouth was-"If you want to throw out the chair, I'll take it". Which to me means it's worth fixing. The chair as they say, Has Good Bones."
The owner told me exactly what he would need to do to repair the chair, told me it would take about 10 days and asked for a deposit. I gave him the deposit and I'm looking forward in getting back my chair with a much improved seat. I wish I had the money to get the chair recovered, it would have been another $175 to $200 depending on the fabric. But the fabric on the chair is in good condition and I don't mind the green color. I'd like to think I'm keeping the chair out of the local landfill, I'm helping a local merchant (who by the looks of the workshop is really good at what he does) and I'll get back my comfy chair and keep the memory alive of a departed aged relative.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Getting Ready to Do My Taxes
And I am soo behind schedule. By this time last year I had them e-filed and was awaiting my refund. This year I am just getting all my paperwork together. I got all my forms in one pile, I've scanned in the last of my reciepts, I've got a list of things I will need to do my taxes. I'm planning to take a weekend off (I really need a weekend off) from my part time job and will take a day to do my taxes. I have my W2's, my 1099's, and all those little forms one needs. I'd like to get my taxes done so I can start thinking about my home improvement loan process.
Not helping matters is a pinched nerve in my neck. One bad hair flip and I'm in agony and pain. Yikes. I feel twice my age.
Not helping matters is a pinched nerve in my neck. One bad hair flip and I'm in agony and pain. Yikes. I feel twice my age.
Monday, February 1, 2010
I Really Can't Make This Stuff Up
Just to give you an idea as to what I've been dealing with for the month of January and why I've been not blogging as much as I would like. Individually, not a big deal, but all together one after another, just plain tiring. So here goes!
Pets: Those of you who have been reading my blog know that I have been taking care of a dog that belonged to my deceased elderly friend. I still have this dog and I really want to find her a home. One my older pets does not get along with her and it's tiresome keeping them separate. The rescue service she is registered with is going through yet another administrative change. This pet has a few health issues and it makes her harder to adopt out. It's like she gets pushed to the bottom of the list since she is in a "good foster home" as they call me. Next time someone asks me to "help" with an animal, I'm saying no. Not trying to be pet unfriendly, but I've been stuck with this dog for almost 18 months, when it was supposed to be short term. Elderly friends estate is no help, because there really is no one. I tend to think with my heart and not my head.
Work: My boss has been penny wise and pound foolish. He has spent about 10 hours of his time trying to find someone who can repair an old printer we have. The printer is about 8 years old, it was a refurbished model when the office bought it. It's not in production anymore and the parts are a bit pricey. Plus, almost without exception, every repair company I've found charges close to $120 per hour to do work, some charge travel as well. My boss is positive he can find the parts for the machine and we can do it ourselves (we can't). We have a second color laser printer that needs both a black drum and color drum, both parts just slide in/slide out, but cost around $600. This will probably give us at least another 2 years of excellent service. We do a lot of in house color work, we need a working printer. My boss's mantra is "we can find it cheaper, I know we can". At some point, you have to just retire the old electronics or pay the price for the parts to get the newer ones working. I am fully aware we are operating on a budget, but spending money on old outdated equipment that keeps dying is just plain foolish. Don't get me started on the toner research either or the fact each time I come in on Mondays my desk supplies are slowly getting pilfered while I'm out of the office. I don't share well and this irks me.....
We have also decided to hire a new consultant and my boss said while he thinks she would be a good fit, he wanted me to talk to her about the color of her purse (it was shocking pink) and how she should not bring it out when she goes to see clients. Ah, I don't think I can do that, we don't have an official dress code and we certainly don't have a color dress code, official or otherwise. He had already given her the office policy manual to read prior to the job offer, so she has this all in writing already. If he objected to the color of her handbag, he should have not offered her the job.
FHA Mortgage Research: By talking to other real estate brokers, I found a mortgage broker who specializes in FHA loans and FHA refinance loans. She and most of her office have a good reputation. I met with her a couple weeks ago, explained my situation (BK and all) and told her that once I did my 2009 taxes, I was interested in trying to do the FHA rehab loan for the house. I came prepared with a list of repairs and a list of contractors that I would be contacting. I also asked what other information she would need. We agreed to meet again last week to start the paperwork and for her to go over some financials and figures with me. We agreed to not pull a credit report until I had done the 2009 taxes and gotten all my paperwork in order. I call the office last week to set up a second meeting only to find that the broker I was talking to had eloped. Yup, eloped and is probably gone for good. The "new" broker assigned to my loan is someone I was warned to avoid, so I made sure both in writing and by phone that I was suspending all action on my loan until further notice. The "new" broker is a man who had been in banking, got laid off post 9-11 and while he may know finance, does not know or do mortgages well. I've heard enough horror stories on deals crashing to make sure I avoid him like the plague.
Weekend Job: My weekend job has been ultra busy, my job duties have changed a bit as the facility did a much needed assessment of how best to use the staff we have. I'm fine with the job changes, I took on some new duties, and dropped some others and we are working better as a facilitynow that we have adapted to our new rolls, it took a couple weeks to get the wheels in motion. My weekend boss is heading south for a while with both clients and horses to take advantage of the non cold and non snow weather. He did not do this last year, but is opting to do the "southern circuit" this year. We do have working at the facility, yet another very talented rider, but very young and insecure person trying to make it as a trainer/instructor. Alas they don't have the communication skills or the people skills (yet) to teach or to deal with the staff. And almost without exception these very talented, yet insecure people tend to be "on a high horse" and not nice to us "underlings" at the barn. I've dealt with this prima donna attitude enough to deal with it, but it does get tiring. It just makes my job a bit more irksome when it does not need to be irksome. Plus I was told this past weekend that since I was only "the groom" and "barn baby sitter" that I really knew nothing about the equine business or equine management. This from someone who still lives at home with mummy and daddy, is just of legal drinking age and has never had any kind of management experience at all. I looked at them, leaned on my broom and said, "Did you fall off of a horse, hit your head and not tell us, 'cause you are really talking about something you know nothing about!" When the big boss is away, the assistants sometimes think they are the big boss.
Social Life~I may be 40 some odd years old, but... I got dressed to go out to dinner the other night with a group of friends. I was really looking forward to it, a bunch of us had not gone out for ages. Plus we had a new male addition to the group. Like any slightly vain person, I wanted to make sure I looked good. Clean clothes, clean hair, but what the freak is in the middle of my nose? Yes smack dab on the end of my nose right in the middle was a zit. When I went to touch it, it popped and I then had a large red spot on the end of my nose. Plus since I was at the weekend job, I did not have any cover up with me. I'm not a big make up person to begin with and what few basic make up items I have are home. I walked around the house swearing and looking for something to use to soothe the spot. Gwad I felt like I was 17 and going to a dance..
I will end this post with some good news. I actually have my first real real estate client in over a year. We are in good negotiations for a piece of land, clean deal, no contingencies; we are just coming together on price. So I'm looking forward to a nice end of February with a nice commission!
How has your month been?
Pets: Those of you who have been reading my blog know that I have been taking care of a dog that belonged to my deceased elderly friend. I still have this dog and I really want to find her a home. One my older pets does not get along with her and it's tiresome keeping them separate. The rescue service she is registered with is going through yet another administrative change. This pet has a few health issues and it makes her harder to adopt out. It's like she gets pushed to the bottom of the list since she is in a "good foster home" as they call me. Next time someone asks me to "help" with an animal, I'm saying no. Not trying to be pet unfriendly, but I've been stuck with this dog for almost 18 months, when it was supposed to be short term. Elderly friends estate is no help, because there really is no one. I tend to think with my heart and not my head.
Work: My boss has been penny wise and pound foolish. He has spent about 10 hours of his time trying to find someone who can repair an old printer we have. The printer is about 8 years old, it was a refurbished model when the office bought it. It's not in production anymore and the parts are a bit pricey. Plus, almost without exception, every repair company I've found charges close to $120 per hour to do work, some charge travel as well. My boss is positive he can find the parts for the machine and we can do it ourselves (we can't). We have a second color laser printer that needs both a black drum and color drum, both parts just slide in/slide out, but cost around $600. This will probably give us at least another 2 years of excellent service. We do a lot of in house color work, we need a working printer. My boss's mantra is "we can find it cheaper, I know we can". At some point, you have to just retire the old electronics or pay the price for the parts to get the newer ones working. I am fully aware we are operating on a budget, but spending money on old outdated equipment that keeps dying is just plain foolish. Don't get me started on the toner research either or the fact each time I come in on Mondays my desk supplies are slowly getting pilfered while I'm out of the office. I don't share well and this irks me.....
We have also decided to hire a new consultant and my boss said while he thinks she would be a good fit, he wanted me to talk to her about the color of her purse (it was shocking pink) and how she should not bring it out when she goes to see clients. Ah, I don't think I can do that, we don't have an official dress code and we certainly don't have a color dress code, official or otherwise. He had already given her the office policy manual to read prior to the job offer, so she has this all in writing already. If he objected to the color of her handbag, he should have not offered her the job.
FHA Mortgage Research: By talking to other real estate brokers, I found a mortgage broker who specializes in FHA loans and FHA refinance loans. She and most of her office have a good reputation. I met with her a couple weeks ago, explained my situation (BK and all) and told her that once I did my 2009 taxes, I was interested in trying to do the FHA rehab loan for the house. I came prepared with a list of repairs and a list of contractors that I would be contacting. I also asked what other information she would need. We agreed to meet again last week to start the paperwork and for her to go over some financials and figures with me. We agreed to not pull a credit report until I had done the 2009 taxes and gotten all my paperwork in order. I call the office last week to set up a second meeting only to find that the broker I was talking to had eloped. Yup, eloped and is probably gone for good. The "new" broker assigned to my loan is someone I was warned to avoid, so I made sure both in writing and by phone that I was suspending all action on my loan until further notice. The "new" broker is a man who had been in banking, got laid off post 9-11 and while he may know finance, does not know or do mortgages well. I've heard enough horror stories on deals crashing to make sure I avoid him like the plague.
Weekend Job: My weekend job has been ultra busy, my job duties have changed a bit as the facility did a much needed assessment of how best to use the staff we have. I'm fine with the job changes, I took on some new duties, and dropped some others and we are working better as a facilitynow that we have adapted to our new rolls, it took a couple weeks to get the wheels in motion. My weekend boss is heading south for a while with both clients and horses to take advantage of the non cold and non snow weather. He did not do this last year, but is opting to do the "southern circuit" this year. We do have working at the facility, yet another very talented rider, but very young and insecure person trying to make it as a trainer/instructor. Alas they don't have the communication skills or the people skills (yet) to teach or to deal with the staff. And almost without exception these very talented, yet insecure people tend to be "on a high horse" and not nice to us "underlings" at the barn. I've dealt with this prima donna attitude enough to deal with it, but it does get tiring. It just makes my job a bit more irksome when it does not need to be irksome. Plus I was told this past weekend that since I was only "the groom" and "barn baby sitter" that I really knew nothing about the equine business or equine management. This from someone who still lives at home with mummy and daddy, is just of legal drinking age and has never had any kind of management experience at all. I looked at them, leaned on my broom and said, "Did you fall off of a horse, hit your head and not tell us, 'cause you are really talking about something you know nothing about!" When the big boss is away, the assistants sometimes think they are the big boss.
Social Life~I may be 40 some odd years old, but... I got dressed to go out to dinner the other night with a group of friends. I was really looking forward to it, a bunch of us had not gone out for ages. Plus we had a new male addition to the group. Like any slightly vain person, I wanted to make sure I looked good. Clean clothes, clean hair, but what the freak is in the middle of my nose? Yes smack dab on the end of my nose right in the middle was a zit. When I went to touch it, it popped and I then had a large red spot on the end of my nose. Plus since I was at the weekend job, I did not have any cover up with me. I'm not a big make up person to begin with and what few basic make up items I have are home. I walked around the house swearing and looking for something to use to soothe the spot. Gwad I felt like I was 17 and going to a dance..
I will end this post with some good news. I actually have my first real real estate client in over a year. We are in good negotiations for a piece of land, clean deal, no contingencies; we are just coming together on price. So I'm looking forward to a nice end of February with a nice commission!
How has your month been?
Monday, January 4, 2010
Starting the New Year On A Good Foot
My trip to IKEA was very productive. I spent a total of $169 ($9 over my limit) for my new bookcase, some kitchen storage containers and items and some unscented candles. The only purchase not on my list was a small stock pot. I need one at the weekend job, the kitchen there does not have one, so I purchased a pot of $29.99. I had been doing a search of Marshalls and TJ Maxx for cooking pots, but the selection has been limited. this pot is a good size for making some soup, stew or just even boiling water for pasta. I got to IKEA early, whipped through the store to get the items on my list, paid for them, then put them in my car. I then came back to the store, spent some time looking for design ideas, pricing and testing out new couches. I did what one is supposed to do when testing out a new couch. I took off my shoes and flopped on each couch. I stretched out, I sat up, I did all the body positions I would normally do at home. I got a lot of strange looks from other shoppers as I tested out the various pieces of furniture. I did not mind one bit. A couch purchase is not on my radar for at least 6 months, but I wanted to get an idea of size, style and price so I can budget/save for a couch.
I will say that IKEA seems to be making better quality furniture. I'm really pleased with my bookshelf. It was easy to put together. I did check out the local unfinished furniture store and they had a similar bookcase for more than twice the price. My IKEA book case is laquered pine and will work just fine in my abode. I will spend a couple nights this week organizing the books I want to keep and purging the rest. I like being able to go to the bookshelf and picking out an old favorite book to re-read. The bookshelf I was replacing at home was also made by IKEA, but it was one of those particle board ones. It was showing it's age (13 years) and starting to fall apart. The updated version at IKEA looked to be of better quality, so it's good to see that IKEA is still making inexpensive furniture that is durable instead of expendable.
The other awesome start was finding two pairs of jeans on sale on new years day. I have a couple pairs of jeans that I wear every weekend at the barn. They are the designated barn jeans. They are at least 3 years old. One pair is so frayed and now badly split that it was not worth the time for me to sew or iron on patches. The other pair I was able to patch. I did go into a store and by chance checked out the women's jean section. I snagged two pairs of jeans for $25. Both were drastically marked down. One was a "quality irregular" and try as I migh to find the "irregular" I could not and the other was just at 75% off. Both pairs are in good shape and fit me well. That was a nice unexpected surprise and I purchased both pairs.
I did a clothes inventory of my closet and it revealed that I'm in very good shape for work and play clothes. I've lucked out the past few shopping trips and have been able to restock my wardrobe with several quality pieces at decent prices. As far as I can tell, future clothing purchases will be limited to things like socks, underwear, and a couple pairs of shorts for the summer.
Hoping you had a very nice New Years!
I will say that IKEA seems to be making better quality furniture. I'm really pleased with my bookshelf. It was easy to put together. I did check out the local unfinished furniture store and they had a similar bookcase for more than twice the price. My IKEA book case is laquered pine and will work just fine in my abode. I will spend a couple nights this week organizing the books I want to keep and purging the rest. I like being able to go to the bookshelf and picking out an old favorite book to re-read. The bookshelf I was replacing at home was also made by IKEA, but it was one of those particle board ones. It was showing it's age (13 years) and starting to fall apart. The updated version at IKEA looked to be of better quality, so it's good to see that IKEA is still making inexpensive furniture that is durable instead of expendable.
The other awesome start was finding two pairs of jeans on sale on new years day. I have a couple pairs of jeans that I wear every weekend at the barn. They are the designated barn jeans. They are at least 3 years old. One pair is so frayed and now badly split that it was not worth the time for me to sew or iron on patches. The other pair I was able to patch. I did go into a store and by chance checked out the women's jean section. I snagged two pairs of jeans for $25. Both were drastically marked down. One was a "quality irregular" and try as I migh to find the "irregular" I could not and the other was just at 75% off. Both pairs are in good shape and fit me well. That was a nice unexpected surprise and I purchased both pairs.
I did a clothes inventory of my closet and it revealed that I'm in very good shape for work and play clothes. I've lucked out the past few shopping trips and have been able to restock my wardrobe with several quality pieces at decent prices. As far as I can tell, future clothing purchases will be limited to things like socks, underwear, and a couple pairs of shorts for the summer.
Hoping you had a very nice New Years!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Holiday Wrap Up
My holiday season was busy, mainly with work and some socializing. In past years I’ve been lucky enough to get invited to a number of holiday functions and have felt obligated to bring a bottle of wine, a six pack, a hostess gift. This year I decided that I would not do that. I also decided that last year and it is easier said than done. So, when the first couple invitations came I made a point to call the host/hostess and said, I’d love to come but I won’t since I can’t contribute to the party. Mind you, I was not looking for tea and sympathy, and these folks know I usually bring something. With one exception I was told no gift needed, just show up, we are inviting YOU, not the bottle or food you bring. Now, I know when you get a party invite, you are being invited, not your gift giving abilities, but my DNA has me programmed to bring something. When I reviewed my holiday spending for 2008, I think I spent close to $200 on “hostess gifts” which really wasn’t budgeted so to speak.
The one exception was my friend Judith who re-married a few years back. She is Catholic and married a man who is Jewish. Judith can’t make Latkes (potato pancakes) to save her own life. I can make acceptable Latkes. This year, Judith and her husband hosted a rocking Hanukkah party. So, my Hanukkah gift to her family was to come over earlier and help organize and make the Latkes. Tiny bite sized Latkes that little tidbits of goodness (caviar, sour cream, applesauce, and more) were spooned on and served to the guests. I made regular straight potato ones and root vegetable ones (carrot, parsnip, yams, sweet potato, regular potatoes.) Thank you Smitten Kitchen for your recipe.
Christmas again was spent with friends, a lovely low keyed meal, but full of great food and great company. The weekend was spent at work with a minimal staff and full barn. The weather co-operated, meaning no snow unlike the previous weekend when we got a foot of snow. It was good to go home on Sunday and relax on my couch with a glass of wine.
I drastically dropped down my present list. I only gave to two old friends and my lovely neighbors. I did mail out a ton of cards, no irritating Christmas letter for me! I still have a gift certificate I need to order for some friends in the UK. I did get some nice gifts, a small bonus from work, two scarves, a couple bottles of wine and a tin of cookies I’ll actually eat. My 85 year old uncle sent me my annual $50 check and I got two gift cards, one for $50 and one store card for $30.
I usually give myself birthday and Christmas presents. This way I am assured that I will get at least one item that I WANT. For my birthday this year, it was a much needed new set of bed linens, but I was able to get a nice soft high thread count set from Marshalls. A couple years ago I used my small bonus, and a bunch of gift cards to buy myself my flat screen TV, which I still love and am grateful that I got. Winter is my TV season and even with my limited channel selection, it is still nice to have the larger screen to watch DVD’s and my few favorite programs. My present to myself this year will be a trip to IKEA to get a new bookcase. They are having a sale on New Years day, the item to be purchased is all wood, which is a good thing. I’ll be up early to make the trek, snag a bookcase and do a little shopping. I have given myself a limit of $160 including the shelf. Probably my only true New Years Resolution will be to make that last gasp re-organization and de-cluttering of my space. The new bookshelf will help. And just to point out, I’m only getting the bookcase new because my searches for the past two months have yielded nothing on Craig’s list, the local furniture consignment shops and freecycle. In fact, the two bookshelves I looked at on Craig’s list were pieces of junk that people were asking far too much money for. Come on folks, that POS you are selling for $75 is worth maybe $30! AND they were not all wood. The bookcases I really wanted are made out of reclaimed barn board and cost over $400 each. A local cabinet maker sells them. He makes each one himself, they are lovely, but I just can’t justify $800 on bookcases right now. My next furniture purchase has to be a new or new to me apartment sized sofa.
New Years Eve will be spent as it has been the past few years, over at the neighbors, eating good food, drinking a bit, playing board games, dancing to music and then off to bed just after midnight. Have a good safe holiday!
The one exception was my friend Judith who re-married a few years back. She is Catholic and married a man who is Jewish. Judith can’t make Latkes (potato pancakes) to save her own life. I can make acceptable Latkes. This year, Judith and her husband hosted a rocking Hanukkah party. So, my Hanukkah gift to her family was to come over earlier and help organize and make the Latkes. Tiny bite sized Latkes that little tidbits of goodness (caviar, sour cream, applesauce, and more) were spooned on and served to the guests. I made regular straight potato ones and root vegetable ones (carrot, parsnip, yams, sweet potato, regular potatoes.) Thank you Smitten Kitchen for your recipe.
Christmas again was spent with friends, a lovely low keyed meal, but full of great food and great company. The weekend was spent at work with a minimal staff and full barn. The weather co-operated, meaning no snow unlike the previous weekend when we got a foot of snow. It was good to go home on Sunday and relax on my couch with a glass of wine.
I drastically dropped down my present list. I only gave to two old friends and my lovely neighbors. I did mail out a ton of cards, no irritating Christmas letter for me! I still have a gift certificate I need to order for some friends in the UK. I did get some nice gifts, a small bonus from work, two scarves, a couple bottles of wine and a tin of cookies I’ll actually eat. My 85 year old uncle sent me my annual $50 check and I got two gift cards, one for $50 and one store card for $30.
I usually give myself birthday and Christmas presents. This way I am assured that I will get at least one item that I WANT. For my birthday this year, it was a much needed new set of bed linens, but I was able to get a nice soft high thread count set from Marshalls. A couple years ago I used my small bonus, and a bunch of gift cards to buy myself my flat screen TV, which I still love and am grateful that I got. Winter is my TV season and even with my limited channel selection, it is still nice to have the larger screen to watch DVD’s and my few favorite programs. My present to myself this year will be a trip to IKEA to get a new bookcase. They are having a sale on New Years day, the item to be purchased is all wood, which is a good thing. I’ll be up early to make the trek, snag a bookcase and do a little shopping. I have given myself a limit of $160 including the shelf. Probably my only true New Years Resolution will be to make that last gasp re-organization and de-cluttering of my space. The new bookshelf will help. And just to point out, I’m only getting the bookcase new because my searches for the past two months have yielded nothing on Craig’s list, the local furniture consignment shops and freecycle. In fact, the two bookshelves I looked at on Craig’s list were pieces of junk that people were asking far too much money for. Come on folks, that POS you are selling for $75 is worth maybe $30! AND they were not all wood. The bookcases I really wanted are made out of reclaimed barn board and cost over $400 each. A local cabinet maker sells them. He makes each one himself, they are lovely, but I just can’t justify $800 on bookcases right now. My next furniture purchase has to be a new or new to me apartment sized sofa.
New Years Eve will be spent as it has been the past few years, over at the neighbors, eating good food, drinking a bit, playing board games, dancing to music and then off to bed just after midnight. Have a good safe holiday!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Still Here
Just the usual craziness, but I do have some posts in the hopper. Have a great holiday if I don't post this weekend!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Two Steps Forward, Three Steps Back
Before I start this post, I have to remind myself and everyone, that since I filed for my bankruptcy, I have been able to bounce back in certain areas. I got a new to me car, I got a credit card, I live a mainly cash only existence, I'm feeling a bit more in control of my finances...
YET
The big YET
One of my problems that led me to the bankruptcy was this string of bad luck, things so out of my control that kept knocking me down personally, professionally and most importantly, fiscally. Things are not quite that bad this time around, but I do feel like it's two steps forward and three steps back and that I'm stuck in a mud pile, bog, or what ever. It's an incredibly frustrating feeling.
I try to be positive, I try to ask the universe for help, I pray to my gods, I make action plans, I set measurable goals, I say my daily affirmations, I network, I do vision boards, I think I'm doing everything I need to do, yet I have a huge issue getting plans to come to fruition in a timely basis~ something happens that sets me back, time and time again.
One of my readers awhile ago said I should just ask the universe. I've tried, I am probably not asking the correct way. Call me paranoid or crazy, but at one point before the BK I really felt like someone had put a hex on me. I can almost to the day tell you when things went belly up for me and the daily grind became a daily struggle, it was the 2nd week in February 2004. You may think I'm crazy, but it was from that point forward that I got stuck in the 2 steps forward, 3 steps back mode.
I have never shied away from hard work. I am not asking for things to be dropped into my lap, but it would be nice to have a string of good luck or easy successes to bolster my confidence or to balance out the struggles. It is discouraging to repeatedly feel that I am stuck in a place and can not move forward.
I wish I had an answer for the above. I wish I could give you all the magic plan to get out of this cycle. It's draining on the mind as well as the body and finances to feel this way. So what am I going to do, not 100% sure. I keep reworking my goal list so that I do get a sense of accomplishment, but I still have this major goals and projects that need to be done or worked on and getting some sense of satisfaction with those is the on going issue.
In the quest to get my new to me car, I did a vision board of the type of car I wanted (a small SUV) with the extras I wanted,even down to the GPS and cargo rack. I also did my homework, checking out dealerships, price checking, getting my finances in order for a very post BK venture into the world of a consumer loan. It took a couple months, but I did get the vehicle I wanted with the extras I wanted and now almost two years later, I still love it!
Yet I am having a problem transferring that success to other parts of my life. I'm not talking expensive jewels or designer clothes or first class trips around the world. I'm talking about getting a reputable contractor to tackle that never ending home repair list of things I can't do, I'm talking about job goals, personal goals. Things that I should be able to achieve, yet getting these goals and accomplishments seems to move ever so slowly forward. So very slowly......
I'm open to any and all suggestions and yes, I'm even looking for a way to break that hex. :)
YET
The big YET
One of my problems that led me to the bankruptcy was this string of bad luck, things so out of my control that kept knocking me down personally, professionally and most importantly, fiscally. Things are not quite that bad this time around, but I do feel like it's two steps forward and three steps back and that I'm stuck in a mud pile, bog, or what ever. It's an incredibly frustrating feeling.
I try to be positive, I try to ask the universe for help, I pray to my gods, I make action plans, I set measurable goals, I say my daily affirmations, I network, I do vision boards, I think I'm doing everything I need to do, yet I have a huge issue getting plans to come to fruition in a timely basis~ something happens that sets me back, time and time again.
One of my readers awhile ago said I should just ask the universe. I've tried, I am probably not asking the correct way. Call me paranoid or crazy, but at one point before the BK I really felt like someone had put a hex on me. I can almost to the day tell you when things went belly up for me and the daily grind became a daily struggle, it was the 2nd week in February 2004. You may think I'm crazy, but it was from that point forward that I got stuck in the 2 steps forward, 3 steps back mode.
I have never shied away from hard work. I am not asking for things to be dropped into my lap, but it would be nice to have a string of good luck or easy successes to bolster my confidence or to balance out the struggles. It is discouraging to repeatedly feel that I am stuck in a place and can not move forward.
I wish I had an answer for the above. I wish I could give you all the magic plan to get out of this cycle. It's draining on the mind as well as the body and finances to feel this way. So what am I going to do, not 100% sure. I keep reworking my goal list so that I do get a sense of accomplishment, but I still have this major goals and projects that need to be done or worked on and getting some sense of satisfaction with those is the on going issue.
In the quest to get my new to me car, I did a vision board of the type of car I wanted (a small SUV) with the extras I wanted,even down to the GPS and cargo rack. I also did my homework, checking out dealerships, price checking, getting my finances in order for a very post BK venture into the world of a consumer loan. It took a couple months, but I did get the vehicle I wanted with the extras I wanted and now almost two years later, I still love it!
Yet I am having a problem transferring that success to other parts of my life. I'm not talking expensive jewels or designer clothes or first class trips around the world. I'm talking about getting a reputable contractor to tackle that never ending home repair list of things I can't do, I'm talking about job goals, personal goals. Things that I should be able to achieve, yet getting these goals and accomplishments seems to move ever so slowly forward. So very slowly......
I'm open to any and all suggestions and yes, I'm even looking for a way to break that hex. :)
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Scan A Thon Is Almost Complete
One of my goals for 2008 was to scan all my files and various bits and bobs of paper. It took me until this summer to get a new scanner/printer/fax AIO. I waited until my old printer bit the dust, I shopped around and I got a nice AIO.
I have over the past few months, scanned almost all my old paper files. Utility bills, old bank statements, new bank statements, insurance policies, EOB's, etc. I think I scanned and shredded about 40 pounds of paper. I still have a pile of things to scan and shred (old income tax statements and all the back up documentation), but I've managed to really reduce down my paper. It also doesn't hurt that I only have one credit card and most of my bank statements and utility statements are all e-statements now. My mailbox is getting kind of empty. I get the odd catalog and the occassional bill. More importantly, I have less paper clutter at home. I tend to keep a lot of paper, but now I scan and drop in the appropriate file.
I have Fabulously Broke in the City to thank for this. Her posts on going paperless really motivated me to get cracking. My "home office" is looking better and better!
Feels kinda good!
I have over the past few months, scanned almost all my old paper files. Utility bills, old bank statements, new bank statements, insurance policies, EOB's, etc. I think I scanned and shredded about 40 pounds of paper. I still have a pile of things to scan and shred (old income tax statements and all the back up documentation), but I've managed to really reduce down my paper. It also doesn't hurt that I only have one credit card and most of my bank statements and utility statements are all e-statements now. My mailbox is getting kind of empty. I get the odd catalog and the occassional bill. More importantly, I have less paper clutter at home. I tend to keep a lot of paper, but now I scan and drop in the appropriate file.
I have Fabulously Broke in the City to thank for this. Her posts on going paperless really motivated me to get cracking. My "home office" is looking better and better!
Feels kinda good!
Monday, November 30, 2009
You Have To Keep Looking
Earlier this month I did a much needed clothes shop. I did a purge of my closet of the clothes that don't fit. Some went to Goodwill, some went to the consignment shop, others went into the trash. I had not been having much luck at my 2 local consignment shops, pickings had been slim, hence the mad shop at the Mall.
Over the weekend I did stop by and low and behold, I found two tops in the colors I wanted and both in very good shape. I paid a whopping $6 for two tops that are much needed in my clothes rotation. One top looked almost brand new. The key to consigment/thrift store shopping is to keep going back. The inventory can and does change. I was pretty darned happy to find the two tops and I still have $25 left over for my clothes budget for the remainder of the year. Even better, I avoided going to the Mall and dealing with all the Holiday shoppers!.
Over the weekend I did stop by and low and behold, I found two tops in the colors I wanted and both in very good shape. I paid a whopping $6 for two tops that are much needed in my clothes rotation. One top looked almost brand new. The key to consigment/thrift store shopping is to keep going back. The inventory can and does change. I was pretty darned happy to find the two tops and I still have $25 left over for my clothes budget for the remainder of the year. Even better, I avoided going to the Mall and dealing with all the Holiday shoppers!.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Loving ALDI
I did my food and holiday shopping over the weekend and I have to repeat again for the 100th time, that I'm really like the local ALDI. I have to remember to shop there more often. Iwalked out of ALDI the other day with three big bags of grocery items for less than $30. I walked out of the grocery store with two small bags and $37 poorer.
They have a bunch of seasonal specials ( or at least they do in my store), brie cheese at 1/3 the cost of the local chain grocery store, the basic dairy items are at least 1/2 less expensive than the local grocery store. I've been pretty impressed with the quality of the pantry staples. I've been having to shop for two kitchens, my own and the one at the weekend job. I have kitchen privileges at my weekend job, no one seems to take the food from my assigned shelf, so I've been slowly bringing things like pasta, beans, spices, canned soups, etc. I had fallen into the habit of going into town for lunch on a more than regular basis, instead of an occasional treat, it was becoming the norm and it was getting expensive. I don't mind going into town for a coffee, but eating all my meals out, was getting pricey. So back to bringing leftovers and keeping some basics at the farm. Plus I now set aside one night to cook a "real meal", shamelessly watch cable TV while eating my dinner and then I take the leftovers home for lunch.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
They have a bunch of seasonal specials ( or at least they do in my store), brie cheese at 1/3 the cost of the local chain grocery store, the basic dairy items are at least 1/2 less expensive than the local grocery store. I've been pretty impressed with the quality of the pantry staples. I've been having to shop for two kitchens, my own and the one at the weekend job. I have kitchen privileges at my weekend job, no one seems to take the food from my assigned shelf, so I've been slowly bringing things like pasta, beans, spices, canned soups, etc. I had fallen into the habit of going into town for lunch on a more than regular basis, instead of an occasional treat, it was becoming the norm and it was getting expensive. I don't mind going into town for a coffee, but eating all my meals out, was getting pricey. So back to bringing leftovers and keeping some basics at the farm. Plus I now set aside one night to cook a "real meal", shamelessly watch cable TV while eating my dinner and then I take the leftovers home for lunch.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Frienemy
Frienemies, we all have them. They are those people in your life that you still hang out with that are a bit toxic or are bad for you Karma.
I have a couple freinds that have made the transition from friend to frienemy. I'm a glutton for punishment as I can't seem to get them out of my life or completely let them go. This is something I need to work on because it has caused me a ton of aggrivation this past month dealing with a "friend". I've been interacting with them for a volunteer project and this recent spell of 'togehterness' has firmly reminded me the reason why we drifted apart. Yet I keep finding myself responding to invitiations for drinks or coffee out. This particular person is very good at giving out compliments covered in poo. IE- We are working on this volunteer project, I know I did my part really well, yet the compliment that I got was Oh lovely, but .........
Yikes, let me tell you, I will be very happy when this project is done and dusted.
I have a couple freinds that have made the transition from friend to frienemy. I'm a glutton for punishment as I can't seem to get them out of my life or completely let them go. This is something I need to work on because it has caused me a ton of aggrivation this past month dealing with a "friend". I've been interacting with them for a volunteer project and this recent spell of 'togehterness' has firmly reminded me the reason why we drifted apart. Yet I keep finding myself responding to invitiations for drinks or coffee out. This particular person is very good at giving out compliments covered in poo. IE- We are working on this volunteer project, I know I did my part really well, yet the compliment that I got was Oh lovely, but .........
Yikes, let me tell you, I will be very happy when this project is done and dusted.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Weekend in Review
I had a good weekend. I managed to spend a ton of money, but on things like my electric bill, my phone bill, and a huge food shopping (I'm really liking this one big shop a month thing), some much needed new clothes and of course, I picked up two of the gift cards I'm giving away.
I got paid from both jobs on Friday, paid the bills that needed to be paid and then gave myself permission to hit the mall for clothes, within reason. I set both a budget and a numerical limit on clothes (no more than 4 pairs of pants and 3 tops). I ended up at Macy's for two reasons, well three. I had a coupon for an additional 20% off, they were having a great sale, and I know that I can swing in and hit a couple departments for clothes with the least amount of fuss and bother.
I have been pretty good about going to the consignment shops to look for clothes this past year, but the pickings have been very slim. I managed to pick up 4 pairs of pants, suitable for work and two tops. I need 1-2 more winter tops, some winter socks and if my budget permits, one pair of dress boots. My office is on the casual side, but even my casual clothes are looking a bit worn and tired. The last time I did a major clothes shop was just over 2 years ago when I hit the outlet malls and got a bunch of clothes for work. I had picked up two pairs of new pants over the winter, but I managed to destroy one pair. I think I'm pretty well set for brand new clothes. The sale at Macy's was amazing and I just happened to luck out in finding clothes I like that fit well and were in my price range.
I have decided that doing one major food shop a month seems to work well for me. I pick up the pantry staples, meat product (chicken, beef or pork) and freeze most of it, my frozen veg and I do a bit of menu planning so I only have to stop at the grocery store for my fresh dairy items and to replenish the fruits and fresh veg. Since I am a reluctant grocery shopper, this works for me. I find I'm not aimlessly wandering the isles looking for food or dinner inspiraton or buying un needed food items. My initial outlay of cash is a bit high, but then I spend very little the remainder of the month. That is what happened in October and I anticipate that happening for November.
There has been the usual drama at the part time job, the drama with the neighbor and her kids, the frustration with a new project at work-all which do have a PF angle. Look for those posts in the upcoming week!
I got paid from both jobs on Friday, paid the bills that needed to be paid and then gave myself permission to hit the mall for clothes, within reason. I set both a budget and a numerical limit on clothes (no more than 4 pairs of pants and 3 tops). I ended up at Macy's for two reasons, well three. I had a coupon for an additional 20% off, they were having a great sale, and I know that I can swing in and hit a couple departments for clothes with the least amount of fuss and bother.
I have been pretty good about going to the consignment shops to look for clothes this past year, but the pickings have been very slim. I managed to pick up 4 pairs of pants, suitable for work and two tops. I need 1-2 more winter tops, some winter socks and if my budget permits, one pair of dress boots. My office is on the casual side, but even my casual clothes are looking a bit worn and tired. The last time I did a major clothes shop was just over 2 years ago when I hit the outlet malls and got a bunch of clothes for work. I had picked up two pairs of new pants over the winter, but I managed to destroy one pair. I think I'm pretty well set for brand new clothes. The sale at Macy's was amazing and I just happened to luck out in finding clothes I like that fit well and were in my price range.
I have decided that doing one major food shop a month seems to work well for me. I pick up the pantry staples, meat product (chicken, beef or pork) and freeze most of it, my frozen veg and I do a bit of menu planning so I only have to stop at the grocery store for my fresh dairy items and to replenish the fruits and fresh veg. Since I am a reluctant grocery shopper, this works for me. I find I'm not aimlessly wandering the isles looking for food or dinner inspiraton or buying un needed food items. My initial outlay of cash is a bit high, but then I spend very little the remainder of the month. That is what happened in October and I anticipate that happening for November.
There has been the usual drama at the part time job, the drama with the neighbor and her kids, the frustration with a new project at work-all which do have a PF angle. Look for those posts in the upcoming week!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Just a Bit Crazed, No Internet, and I made a top 100 list!
Things have been a bit hairy scary right now, nothing horrible, just life. I also have almost no internet service right now at home,the free WiFi is not working well.
BUT I did find out I made the top 100 female bloggers over at Her Every Cent counts. Click here to see the list.
BUT I did find out I made the top 100 female bloggers over at Her Every Cent counts. Click here to see the list.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Some Nice Surprises!
Some upbeat news for a holiday Monday. Happy thanksgiving to my Canadian readers and Happy Columbus day to all the Italians who celebrate it!
A few positive things that have happend to me these past few weeks.:
1) Taking advantage of my cousins offer to use her New Jersey beach house and finding a nice bottle of whiskey on the table with a card that said, Thanks for all your help with Mom and idiot brother issue. Have a great couple days. The upside, nice bottle of whiskey to enjoy and three fabulous quiet days on the Jersey Shore. Simply a great mini break for me.
2) A very nice an unexpected note from my weekend boss thanking me for all the things I do at the weekend job and the things I do that are not in the job description.
3) Going out to brunch yesterday and then someone else picking up the tab out of the blue.
4) Getting to the laudromat and in less than 2 hours, getting 7 loads of laundry, washed,dried and folded AND making it back home in time to crash on the couch and enjoy a glass of whiskey!
A few positive things that have happend to me these past few weeks.:
1) Taking advantage of my cousins offer to use her New Jersey beach house and finding a nice bottle of whiskey on the table with a card that said, Thanks for all your help with Mom and idiot brother issue. Have a great couple days. The upside, nice bottle of whiskey to enjoy and three fabulous quiet days on the Jersey Shore. Simply a great mini break for me.
2) A very nice an unexpected note from my weekend boss thanking me for all the things I do at the weekend job and the things I do that are not in the job description.
3) Going out to brunch yesterday and then someone else picking up the tab out of the blue.
4) Getting to the laudromat and in less than 2 hours, getting 7 loads of laundry, washed,dried and folded AND making it back home in time to crash on the couch and enjoy a glass of whiskey!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
The Mortgage Increases
This is the first month that I will be paying my increased mortgage. Yuck. I budgeted for it since I had a low paying August and did not bring in as much money as I though I would on my part time job. I also pre-paid for my 1st winter propane delivery to save some $$$$. Cash was in short supply a few times because I failed to plan properly.
The good news is the other worker bee at my weekend job will be leaving soon to back on her "medical leave" for at least three months. That will be three months of me working every weekend. I am even giving consideration to working Christmas this year to save up the funds. I don't really celebrate the holiday,despite being of the Christian faith. I figured out that I was able to survive on my reduced hours schedule (did not make too many financiall goals, but paid all my bills, plus) that I can use the experience of the past 6 months to be more disciplined in my savings. I have used my e-fund a few times and did not always replenish the full amount I took out. That simply has to change. I was doing fairly well socking away money to my credit union account, I really slacked off the past few months for no good reason!
How are you doing on your saving goals?
The good news is the other worker bee at my weekend job will be leaving soon to back on her "medical leave" for at least three months. That will be three months of me working every weekend. I am even giving consideration to working Christmas this year to save up the funds. I don't really celebrate the holiday,despite being of the Christian faith. I figured out that I was able to survive on my reduced hours schedule (did not make too many financiall goals, but paid all my bills, plus) that I can use the experience of the past 6 months to be more disciplined in my savings. I have used my e-fund a few times and did not always replenish the full amount I took out. That simply has to change. I was doing fairly well socking away money to my credit union account, I really slacked off the past few months for no good reason!
How are you doing on your saving goals?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Geting back on Track
Soo a week later, I have no takers on my offer of guest posts. The offer still stands if you want to take advantage of my blog space to post your story, let me know! So on to the next stage. I'll be back to posting the end of this week. I am fighting a little cold and have been spending the past few nights snuggled up on the couch with a box of tissues and a mug of tea.
Hope you all are well!
Hope you all are well!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
This Blog is My Story-What's Yours
I've been a bit crazed with a couple projects, sorry for the lack of posts. Things should settle down next week, I hope and I pray they do!
Like all blogs, this is my story of my bankruptcy and coming back from it. Not everyone who has gone or is going through a BK has a blog.
I'd like to use this space to share some people's stories should you care to share. I'm asking my readers to send me a "guest post" on what your story is and what you are doing either pre-BK or post BK. It can be as long or as short as you would like.
If you are in a sharing mood, please contact me at:
bouncingback22008 at yahoo.com
Have a great week all!
Like all blogs, this is my story of my bankruptcy and coming back from it. Not everyone who has gone or is going through a BK has a blog.
I'd like to use this space to share some people's stories should you care to share. I'm asking my readers to send me a "guest post" on what your story is and what you are doing either pre-BK or post BK. It can be as long or as short as you would like.
If you are in a sharing mood, please contact me at:
bouncingback22008 at yahoo.com
Have a great week all!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
August Was Expensive! Plus a few Updates
Failure to plan properly cost me dearly. I had some bills come up that I was not expecting until Sept or October and since I did not plan properly, I had to dip in to my Efund to cover them. I had a home insurance payment that I was not expecting to be so high, but I neglected to read the fine print on the last bill that stated the company for future billing, they would bill you either twice a year or once a year. In the past two years, the payments were spread over three invoices and I was not expecting to have to pay sooo much. So be it, shame on me for not reading the fine print. The other unexpected bill was my mobile bill. I've been using my phone a lot more these past few months, so much so that I keep getting hit with outrageous overage charges. I did the adult thing, reviewed my bills for the past 5 months, went to the web site, reviewed other plan options and found a new plan that should cover the minutes I've been using. It's $39 per month instead of $23 per month, but since my last 4 bills have all been over $50, I think this should help me out budget wise, especially since I know I'll be using the phone a lot over the next two months. I had some fun to me time, that while not exceptionally expensive did cost me some $$$. I signed up for a friends and family plan that gives me unlimited mintues to select numbers which will be very helpful since I pretty much only call the same 6 people time and time again.
The good news for me is I will be picking up more weekends at my weekend job. I caught up face to face with my weekend boss and we discussed the work situation. He has still not heard from my co-worker aobut her inpending surgery, but has heard about it from everyone else. Pretty much, I'm going to just drop back in to my old schedule as soon as she is off on her medical leave. My co-worker just has to tell me when she will be unable to work and I slide back into the old routine. Which is good, I have to replenish my E-Fund and I want to build back up a cushion in my checking account.
I'm continuing on my scan fest. My initial zest wore off, but every few days I scan a pile of papers, then shread them. My filing cabinets are getting nice and empty!
The good news for me is I will be picking up more weekends at my weekend job. I caught up face to face with my weekend boss and we discussed the work situation. He has still not heard from my co-worker aobut her inpending surgery, but has heard about it from everyone else. Pretty much, I'm going to just drop back in to my old schedule as soon as she is off on her medical leave. My co-worker just has to tell me when she will be unable to work and I slide back into the old routine. Which is good, I have to replenish my E-Fund and I want to build back up a cushion in my checking account.
I'm continuing on my scan fest. My initial zest wore off, but every few days I scan a pile of papers, then shread them. My filing cabinets are getting nice and empty!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
My Mortgage Will Be Increasing
Ugh, I opened the mail the other day and had a notice from my bank. Due to the increase in my property taxes, my mortgage payment is increasing. Not by a little, but by $144 a month. Sigh, it's always something. My town had a property re-evaluation, my house increased in value and thus my property taxes have gone up. When I got the notice in the mail from the assessors office, I ran some comp statistics from the MLS and came up with a fairly similar figure. I will say that even though my house is small, it is retaining value. Being on a lake does help and at least I'm not underwater on the mortgage (the Escape is a different story......).
My escrow balance took a hit for the 2nd yearly payment and my mortgage payment will be increased to build back up the escrow balance and to create a cushion for the 2010 property taxes. Time for a little budget re-evalution!
My escrow balance took a hit for the 2nd yearly payment and my mortgage payment will be increased to build back up the escrow balance and to create a cushion for the 2010 property taxes. Time for a little budget re-evalution!
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