Status Update on the (now) 20 Month Plan

While a move may not happen until June 2011, the plan is slowly moving forward. My real estate agent is trying to work a time to set up some home viewings over Christmas in Austin. Perhaps, if I’m lucky, the Austin Nobles will take me on a quick trip through the targeted neighborhoods when I’m there for Jelly Bean’s shower. When I move next time it will be forever and where in the Austin area I end up will depend on the amount approved for a mortgage. But I’m still aiming for right downtown.

On that end, today was a big score for a client which resulted in a contract extension. Joy and Happiness because I have a sneaking suspicion that one of the little guys is going to leave (they’ve fired some of their in-house staff and are a month late on the payment). At this rate it is still a struggle to save for the down payment although the monthly nut is covered including taxes.

I still have a freezer with quite a bit of frozen steaks (client gift) but I’m trying to focus on less expensive sources of protein. Tomorrow I will be making a bean casserole with pinto, kidney, and green beans (plus other ingredients). The focus is still on lowering grocery costs and I’m getting a little ridiculous in that area. I try to keep each meal to around $1.50 while maintaining health – a fun challenge. I also found the way to keep the water bill down by over $100/month. Each month I look for more ways to cut costs and increase revenue.

One of the great things about consulting is that I’m getting about 8.5 hours of sleep each night. Yes! I have also learned to nap but until this last weekend, it was only when Youngest (or Eldest too!) were around. I feel safe enough to let go into sleep if I’m not alone. But if I can repeat the unsupervised nap, that is a giant step forward in physical and mental health.

Youngest is near the end of her mandatory classes and on her way to full independence. She has also started a little dog walking side business to up her income (one client thus far). Another big deal was her first dental visit for a comprehensive exam. The news was stunning in that things are not as bad as I anticipated and her next session is this Friday. Already Y is using the new toothbrush and prescription paste and wash. Our Dentist has a reasonable plan for both of us that will have us all done by move time, including cosmetic work for Youngest. Again, finances will determine the speed.

Things are not moving at warp speed, but they are still moving and there is victory in that.