:::: MENU ::::

Oct 13, 2026    |      0 comments

Road Trip Time

by

I leave with my dad for a month-ish long road trip soon. My dogs are going with us. And I’ll get to visit with both of my daughters. Woot, woot!

You all know that I love to travel. And road tripping is my favorite.

On the other hand, I’ve never traveled with someone for so long. So this will be an experience.

The great news is that this trip is on dad’s dime. We are headed toward the east coast with some fun stops along the way.

The bad news is that it is going to cut into my working hours and I won’t have complete control of my schedule. I’m going to have to be very diligent about my work. Even when I’m tired.

Our first stop is the Texas State Fair. The majority of the Texas based family is going. It was dad’s idea and most everyone jumped on board. I think there will be 10 of us there. It should be a great time! We have lots of memories at various state fairs.

Hope and family at the State Fair of Texas a few years back
State Fair of Texas – Hope and some of her family a few years ago

Then dad and I will head to visit a bunch of his friends as we meander over a week toward Georgia. There I will get to visit my girls, while he will be attending his last high school reunion.

The trip back is still unknown. I think Dad could go either way. He will either be having a blast and want to visit some more people. Or he will be worn out and ready to get back to his own bed.

I’ll just enjoy the ride. And be there to support him. In any way he needs it. This trip is all about him. I’m just there as a companion, chauffeur, and support should he need it in any way.

I cannot even imagine losing my spouse of 54 years and still having to function. I can not. I’m glad Dad is getting out and visiting people from their past. He’s been homebound for the better part of 9 years now. This will be good for him.

Oct 7, 2026    |      0 comments

Three Things I have Learned being Cash Only

by

I’ve been on a CASH ONLY basis since I took the Dave Ramsey course this past spring. It just made sense to me in a way few things have. And I dove right in.

Current Circumstances

Now just a reminder of or introduction to my current life for those that haven’t been here that long. I live with my dad. I moved in here about a year and a half ago to help take care of my mom (and dad). My mom passed away in June of this year.

My dad lets me stay here for free and pays for all the groceries. I do not pay any rent or utilities. In exchange, I do all the cooking and general care of the home. I’m also now taking over bill paying for him with financial oversight by my siblings. It’s not a job I asked for or wanted, but it makes the most sense since I am here.

My dad has pointed out several times that since I moved in, he is spending less on food. And he’s definitely eating more variety and more healthy. (He is also a diabetic so our diets are structured identically in that sense.) So it’s actually been saving him money to have me around. He can’t cook. And has no desire to learn.

All that to say, my monthly bills are very low. My car is paid for. A single student loan is my only outstanding debt. And while I still pay my cell phone, internet, and support my dogs, most of the income I bring is goes to savings these days. Thank god!

Taking a class at my church is really the only time I leave my house every week. I have a dinner with a group of women every other week, but other than that, I am perfectly content to be home.

How Cash has Helped

Last spring, I took the Financial Peace class. And while I’ve know about the Baby Steps forever. I had never heard him speak. It made so much sense to me.

Here are my top three take aways since going cash only:

  1. Carrying cash is not something I do. I’ve never been one to carry cash. And that hasn’t changed. Makes it really hard to buy anything when you literally have no way. I know this is extreme, but it’s what I do. And we all know I need the discipline. (I do use my debit card for gas at the pump, but 1) it’s in my budget and 2) since I rarely go anywhere on a regular basis, I don’t have to get gas often.)
  2. Preparation is key. Food has always been a weakness. The convenience of restaurants, drive thrus, just made my money disappear. That was especially true when all 5 of my kids were home. So when I know I’m going to be away from home. I pack food. And it’s really helped getting to cook and keep groceries I enjoy. And being Texas, it is HOT! So I always have my water bottle or two with me. And even carry one for the dogs. Even dog sitting I take my meals.
  3. There is power in big bills. When I do have cash. Which is still very rare. I try to keep it in big bills. There’s something about breaking a big bill that makes me think and rethink if I really need whatever it is I’m tempted to buy. And 9 times out of 10, I choose not to make the purchase rather than break a big bill.

I know these are silly. But for the last 6-ish months, I’ve saved more than ever, more quickly than ever, and without feeling like I’m depriving myself at all. And that is a win for me. I have the most money for the longest time in a savings account that I think I’ve ever had. (I don’t think I said that well, but I hope you understand what I’m saying.)

 

 

1 2 3 … 1,951