We have a lot of debt to pay off. Instead of just limiting spending on new clothes, I’ve decided to not buy anything new at all. This year will be number three of my clothing fast. One of the ways that I’m making the most of the things that I already …
2016 is the third year in which I will attempt to go without buying any new clothing. We have too much debt. If we ever want to reach our extreme goal of financial semi-independence, then we need to take drastic steps to minimize our spending. But, *SPOILER ALERT* it hasn’t been …
I can read the confusion in their eyes, when I tell people things like how I cut my own hair. They seem surprised when we don’t rush out to buy a new minivan after the birth of our third child. They marvel at the time we spend, out in the sun, working hard on …
Looking for a weekend upcycle / refashion project? I am currently in my third year of not buying any new clothes, so we can put all of our money towards paying off our debt. Surprisingly, it hasn’t been all that hard. I have versatile clothing, including many basic items. Once in a while, I …
A special post from Derek F. Smart consumers know the value of shopping around for goods and services, whether they’re looking for the most reliable mobile phone provider, researching the cheapest energy service, or trying to find the best lender. But many people who are savvy shoppers for most other …
Here is a special weekend post with a super-easy meal idea. All you need is three ingredients to make this delicious version of a classic sandwich (plus some bread). Our weekends are always packed, both with family fun and side hustling to make extra money. We depend on meals that …
I may be a bit late with to the year-end review party, but here is the update on our progress. 2015 was an important year for us in many respects. We made progress on improving our finances, but also made quite a few changes to our lifestyle which will enable …
My mission is to destroy debt and build up assets to facilitate financial semi-independence. While this is a newly-defined goal, I’ve always looked for ways to earn extra money. One of my favorite side hustles is participating in research studies. It can be tricky to find and qualify for these …
The New Year is a time of reflection for most people. We consider our successes and failures, and make plans for the future. Mr. Smith and I spent New Year’s Eve at home, because Tornado came down with the stomach flu (yes, another illness). I had already prepared a cannoli …
2015 will be ending very soon, but first, we have a chance to celebrate Christmas with our family and friends. For many, this time of year is stressful and rushed. Many of my coworkers ask about whether we’ve finished “our list.” It seems like the majority of people view the holiday …