You read that right, I indeed purchased a dumb phone this year. The inspiration for this purchase came about three months ago, although the groundwork began to be laid years ago.
Why I’m Aiming For Financial Flexibility Instead of Financial Independence
Five years ago I was working a job I didn't love and watching my days tick by, unhappy with the 40+ hours a week I found myself at work. It was at this time I discovered the opportunities financial independence could grant me in my day-to-day life. Had I found the cure for the unhappiness I felt? (Spoiler alert: I hadn't).
Why I’m Keeping My $500 Credit Card
About a year ago I wrote about how I had opened up a credit card with an annual fee of $495. I had all intentions of keeping the card open for a year and then closing it prior to when the second year's annual fee posted. However, when examining the pros and cons of keeping the card open I realized it made much more sense to keep using it.
How I Saved Over $1,000 In Hotel Costs
Back in October of 2021 my partner and I visited my family for only the second time since March 2020. In order to pay for the trip's lodging we used credit card points to cover 100% of the cost. If we hadn't used points, this five-night hotel stay would have cost us $1,200.
Pandemic Finance Diaries, Part 7: A Short-Lived Return to Normalcy
The highlight of this quarter was a (short-lived) return to normalcy. We met up with my partner's family down south and stayed in an adorable Airbnb, visited my family, and shared an indoor meal with others (finally!).
The Freedom of F-you Money
I have been working in my current job for a few years now. For the majority of my time here, I have had little to no interest in moving up the "corporate" (non-profit) ladder due to a number of factors, one being that the job is stressful enough by itself, least adding on more responsibilities and stress. So, I had no urge to take on a leadership position. However, one such position opened up recently, and due to some changes in the organization I decided to apply for the position.
Pandemic Finance Diaries, Part 6: Making Money Moves
This quarter's pandemic finance diaries brought the summer, an exciting time during the pandemic! While my partner became fully vaccinated this quarter, cementing our position as a fully-vaccinated household, it didn't turn out to be quite the adventure and travel-filled era for which we were hoping due to the Delta variant's arrival.
Triumphs and Fails of A Return to Flight
In early July my partner and I boarded a plane for the first time in 16 months. We had hoped it would be the first trip of many in our return to regular air travel, a confirmation that everything was safe and well in the world. As it turns out, after about 15 minutes in the airport my partner and I agreed we would not be flying for the rest of 2021.
We’ve Been a Zero Car Family for Five Years
My partner and I have lived in Washington, DC with zero cars for the past five years. We've purposely designed our life to be car-free. Some people call us crazy, but we have our reasons.
Pandemic Finance Diaries, Part 5: New Opportunities
Welcome to Part 5 of the Pandemic Finance Diaries! Part 5 will review my gig job income from March 1, 2021 to May 31, 2021. If you missed Parts 1-4 or are wondering why I’m tallying my gig economy income during the pandemic, I suggest starting at Part 1 of the series. This quarter's pandemic… Continue reading Pandemic Finance Diaries, Part 5: New Opportunities
Cheap Eco Wanderer 