Easy Change

So there has been some unexpected family news lately that sort of puts a big question mark on finances for the future. It is a health related issue and as a result there is an outside chance that there could be a shock to the household monthly income. In anticpation of this possibility the numbers have been run and we could do ok for a long while if things went badly. I will work to avoid that but it has also served to show me how important it is that I continue to practice gratitude. It really helps keep perspective. Recently I updated my net worth with my new 401k values but I am somewhat skeptical and I realize that all of that money is risk money and it really gives me some reassurance to have some cash on hand and some money in the bank. For Christmas, I am giving out some bonds to kids in my family who will not be getting gifts. Some kids already have enough toys and the bonds are hopefully a good way for them to learn how to invest.

So after nearly nine years it is time to replace the living room furniture. This is furniture that I got when I first moved out into an apartment an it has held up extraordinarily well. This time in making the decision it seemed like something more adult, more contemporary was in order. But I have to say that I think that more than the style, I'm excited about the comfort. For the first time since moving in to the condo, it will be filled with furniture. And I finally fell like a grown up. What's more, the cash was on hand to buy it. It is completely amazing to me what you can do with a steady income and low fixed expenses. You cannot help but get ahead. The budget was blown by a grand. But considering the value, it was totally worth it.