Debt Free

July almost 4 years ago, we moved to Tri-Cities. We thought Todd had a job paying double what he was making in New Mexico, and it was time to move home and help my mom and brother. So we packed up and came home. When we got here, we found out that Todd needed more training for that job. It was hard. And it took Todd two months to find a job. By that time, we were really behind on everything. We finally went to the bishop for some help. But instead of giving us the quick fix we were asking for, he had us write down all our debts. When it was all written out, I was surprised at how much debt we really had. I didn't think we owed much, but it added up quickly. That amazing bishop sat down with us every pay check for 6 months. We knew how to do a budget, but we didn't understand the importance of reporting on how we did on that budget after the fact. So he sat down with us and reconsiled every budget and then helped us write up the next budget. With his help, and the help of many others, we paid off $16,000 in 9 months.
Grandpa and Grandma Cook's was essential. They allowed us to live in their motor home rent free, and they paid the electricity and water. It was hard to have two toddlers in the motorhome. But Grandma and Grandpa did all they could to make it comfortable. The mice was my biggest struggle. And there were times when I wondered if I was going to make it. But I learned the value of counting our blessings. And the month the mice came into the motor home, we paid off $1352 of debt. Grandma and Grandpa Cook were not the only ones who helped. We had many who helped. And we'd like to thank everyone who did. We don't even know all those who helped us. But thank you--you know who you are!!
So we moved into our own place and how much we put towards debt slowed way down. But we kept plugging away. And Todd was really good about not letting go of the good budgeting skills we've learned. We have lived in our house for three years as of March 1, today. And we just paid off our last debt: $38000. In those three years, we've had a baby, bought a car, Todd has been laid off twice, and Todd is one month away from earning his AA. None of these have contributed to the $38000 in debt. I'm so proud of us. But Todd has kept me on track when I've waivered. And the Lord has given us so many miracles in helping all of this to happen. We would not have been able to go back to school without debt if it wasn't for the budgeting skills we've learned. And many, many good neighbors who have helped out in big and small ways. And the Lord's continued miracles and grace. We have been so blessed. It wasn't easy, but I'm grateful for all we've learned. We're better off because of it. We're better people because of it.
One friend has asked: now what? The next goal is to finish school without debt. Then the goal is a 6 month emergency fund and a bigger house! And I hope to add a few more babies in there too. But to do that, we need a bigger house. But we want to do the house thing smart. So wish us luck!! Big things are a head for us. I think, our future just might be so bright we'd better wear shades!! Bring yours and we'll party!!