Blogging Away Debt Our Journeys to a Debt-Free Life

by Hope

As I was sitting around Friday night awaiting Princess arrival for the weekend. I thought it might be interesting to look back to this time last year. You have to admit the last year and a half have been one for the history books…for everyone!

Last August, I was…

1. Focused on paying off Student Loan #1 – I did it too. Last year, the first of my student loans was closed out. And here I am just picking back up in paying the minimum on student loan #2.
2. Dreaming of my Post Kids Time – Boy, that dream has changed. No more RV’ing or upcycling a bus type dreams here. Now I own my home and am creating the perfect place to live out my olden days. No regrets in how this dream has changed.
3. Planning for the Fall – the state fair was cancelled last year – thanks COVID. So our fall was pretty boring. But I am hoping the girls and I can go this year. Gymnast will be going to Texas for his fall break. (My dad purchased his airline ticket.)

This year looks very different.

From 5 at home to 1

I knew my post kids time was coming. Although Gymnast is still home, I don’t really see him much. Between work, school and friends…I am home alone ALOT. I am keeping myself busy with home projects and training my new puppy.

Food continues to be a challenge for me. I love my kitchen, but cooking for one is not fun. And I really don’t like left overs. (I ate the same meal 3 times this week.) There are lots of nights when I settle for a sandwich or just raw veggies and dip.

This months money is planned and spent. So I’m coasting through this month, sticking to the plan and working on next month.

Hope

Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.

Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.

Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.