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!!

Random Every Day Cuteness

Kaylyn loves to volunteer at Kylee's Preschool. We try to help out 3 x month.

Kylee during circle time.

Kaylyn loves dolls right now. She enjoys the preschools stroller.

Kylee getting ready for a special song.

Kylee and Emma are good friends. This is them outside in the playhouse.

Kaylyn all bundled up and watching TV.

Kaylyn and Kylee at Kylee's Preschool.

Daddy let me show you what I want. Kaylyn does this a lot even though she is getting better and better at talking.

Valintines Day we took the kids out to eat!! I think they all had fun.

Teeth brushing for everyone in the house!!

Kylee surprising Kaylyn.

isn't this what you do with your laundry baskets?

Girls Night Out

We started with massages and pedicures. These were wonderful!! If you are ever in Boise check out Mirrorbell's. It was amazing!! And mom has had a lot of pedicure, but she said this one was the best.

Are we ready for the purple hat club yet? She does make it look so cute though.

Dinner at Olive Garden. Soups and Salads and breadsticks.

We did a little Valintines Day shopping, but they wouldn't let me get pictures of what they bought...I guess they didn't trust me to not post it.

Playing Dragon Master

My septor is shorter. It was a bad round for Cyntha.

But Dot liked the results, until Cyntha steals them back.

Lots of snacks and good company with a fun game, what more could we ask for?

Laughed until we cried...we had fun!!

Cyntha was a little gasy...but we love anyway.

The next morning, Dot slept in while the rest of us got a long slow breakfast. We enjoyed just being together.

Before we left town, we had to stop for cafe rio. When will they open one in Tri-Cities?

Doll House

So someone ditched a huge christmas present at our door! And we finally put it together. I tried to do it myself, but in the end, Todd had to help. The doll house ended up being so big the kids call it a castle. They have loved playing with it!! Thank you Secret Santa.

Valintines Day Date

After adding up all my hours we found out--I had put in too many, and I got the last Saturday in Januray off. So what do you do with an unexpected day off? I had my valintines day date while I could. Mom graciously offered to watch my kids. And Todd took me out. We were going to go to OutBack because he's never been. But they weren't open yet, and we didn't want to chance missing our date. So Todd took me to PF Chang. It was good food, but we think they are over priced. But it was fun. While there, Todd gave me my valintines day gift!! I have to wonder if the waiter thinks Todd proposed.

My first wedding band broke. So I bought a new one 4 years ago. I got a great deal on it. When it showed up Todd asked what it was--what you are giving me for Valintines day. :) So this time, I pulled up a whole list. And Todd and I wittled it down to three choices. I then walked away. I thought for sure he'd gotten me a saphire ring, but this is the one he chose, and I love it!!

Dot did Kaylyn's hair while we were out. And I couldn't help but get a cute shot of it.

I love you sweetheart!! I would marry you again!! Although--he did not propose again. I teased him that he didn't want to give me a chance to back out. But I wouldn't!! :-)