This has been a long, tiring week. Let’s just say I was more than a little disappointed by Tuesday’s election results, and that’s all I’m going to say about that. Regardless of the winner, I had started a more serious quest for work. Right now I am working as a substitute teacher at our Christian school. I usually work 2-3 days a week, but this week I filled in all week for the same teacher. Since I haven’t worked full time in a year, I am exhausted! Unfortunately with the uncertainty of our economy I hope to be working full time again soon. I am also exploring methods to simplify our lifestyle.
The largest drain on our budget is, of course, housing. Other than utilities, little can be done to reduce this amount. We have two auto loans, one large; one small, but cutting back to one car would only work if I find a job with a set schedule. Other expenditures are fairly inflexible: insurance, taxes, etc., so I’m looking at food since we don’t spent a lot on clothes, and our only entertainment is cable/internet and Netflix. Food is huge and complex. First of all, we love to eat out, and with our often hectic schedule, this is my biggest temptation. Secondly, we both need to lose weight. Choosing healthy, low fat, low carb, yet economical food takes time, education, and diligence. Today, I don’t feel up to the challenge.
Sometimes I would like to return to our previous house just for the lower mortgage payment, but then I remember why we moved. When we got married we bought a house in a good neighborhood. As time passed, more and more of our neighbors moved away and the houses became rental property. No offense to people who rent, but few renters or landlords maintain property as well as owners who live in their houses. We decided to sell and upgrade. Our mortgage payment increased almost fifty per cent; however, we made the right decision because sadly, our old neighborhood looks run down and unkempt. Aside from living on several acres out in the country, everyone must deal with the dynamics of a neighborhood. Since I am not inclined to be a country girl, we must suffer with the mortgage we have.
And so, I continue my quest for a job, coupons, and bargains….remembering that God has always been faithful to provide us with all our needs…..and more.
