Finances, they are a booger. Seriously there is no “perfect” way to do anything... if there was we would all be perfect together.

My car loan... not killing me. I owe 39k still on my truck. You know I went into Carnac and they offered 46k and I walked away from that. The dealership offered 50k which is slightly more reasonable as a trade meaning I have 11k in equity. Somewhat negative as it’s not exactly equity. I see dealerships and car people as not exactly liars and cheats but not exactly honest. Makes it really hard to downsize to something safe, all weather and long lasting once paid off. Sooo we’ll down size to a 15k loan that I’ll pay on over a shorter time frame and reduce credit card debt by the difference. So, it’s not perfect... it’s still a new vs used car. But it’s 2017, 7k below sticker price and has my one requirement of navigation system.

This is about the time I’ll be bashed by people for not going used or getting a tiny car, lower gas mileage, the base of the base of the base car. Yup, I’m still not perfect. I looked at these cars. I spent time contemplating and looking at the amounts the dealerships each offered on different cars and the difference between their quality. I’ve liked several cars and love the tiny “throw-away” cars that are so small and get you from point A to B. I see Francisco liking the small car and taking our daughter in it more often ... I see an accident that could happen and the very small impact that would total the car. I can’t buy something I fear a smallish accident would take out my family. So, I make concessions on not needing the tank I have but I’m not looking for a soapbox derby car.

I paid off the high interest credit card and now will have decreased my car debt by more than 50% and haven’t lost any quality of life. I’m going to call this a win for my week off.

I also received a quote on mowing my lawn... it’s slightly tiny postage stamp... takes less than 20 minutes... they quoted $50 every 2 weeks... I sent them away immediately. I guess Francisco and EE will be mowing the yard in the coming weeks.

Thats it for tonight! Sunday it’s back to Massachusetts and getting ready for awesome! 5 weeks will be soooo long away from home but the end of it comes with a reunion of Francisco and EE seeing her abuelitos... (grandparents from Mexico). It’ll have been nearly 6 years for Francisco. We’ll be looking for more economical options in the future.... but I’m happy all will enjoy such a beautiful time together.

Love to all!