In light of my recent trip to and finding out about the emergency in Iceland, I found my tolerance of "humans behaving badly" particularly difficult and missing. Unfortunately, we were privy to 3 examples of it this weekend.
First one: A complaint from a "friend" (no longer the case) came via email about a visit 6 months ago about how my being tired after working took away from their visit and had they known just how tired I was going to be, they would have changed their plans. Excuse me? They invited themselves and knew both D and I were working that week....had my car to drive around in and all the food they could eat and their own room and bathroom and got to spend the weekend at our cottage. Ungrateful? I think so. Surprised that they cannot find a mate? Not anymore. I've been getting a very skewed side of the story all these years.
Second one: A complainer who sits around expecting everybody else to cater to their needs but does not reciprocate. They literally will not do their own grocery shopping even though they are able and then moves on to complain about how they have no food and how terrible their world is. This person has been a widow for 50 years and still does not drive. They love talking to you but will only do so when you call them long distance and will keep you on the phone for hours. Money isn't an issue but expects you to pay for lunch when you drive over 1 hr each way to visit. I no longer feel sorry for them.
Third one: Family members who are disrespectful to your home and are here to eat and drink you out of house and home. A tough one. They bring half dead flowers and wine you cannot drink because it is so bad. They drop food all over themselves and the floor. They start eating before everyone has made it to the table. They drink your alcohol non stop and forget to bring their own. They watch loud movies into the wee hours of the morning when they know people are trying to sleep. And they don't bring gifts when the visit was supposed to be for the exchange of gifts. But they are angry because their son got married in Mexico and no one has bothered to send a card and gift when on one was invited. (But people ought to out of respect for them...) And they leave things behind that they expect you to courier to them asap.
Well that's our 3. We are going to make sure not to fall into these traps again. Life is just too short to spend it on such ungrateful emotional and financially time wasters.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Iceland Review Pt 3 -- Holy Smokes!
(The timing of this post and this link Lizzie sent is scary and hits close to home... I had no idea when I wrote this post -- some of the pictures I posted were from there...)
The first thing my guide said to us was that there were 4 volcano alerts today and they can go off at anytime. The lot of us thought he was joking -- he wasn't. He went on to tell us that Iceland gets on average 3000 earthquakes a month.
One passenger asked if the government had a rescue plan in place for everyone -- he laughed. He said that people have 15 minutes to evacuate when a volcano or earthquake occurs and that families have an evacuation plan in place and practice it.
No one counts on someone coming for them right away. People are completely responsible for their own safety. Icelanders can come across hard as nails. Most if not all of the interior roads in Iceland over the winter are not passable and those who venture or live in such terrain have vehicles that can cross rivers without stalling.
These "Super Jeeps" can cost upwards of $200000 - $300000 and are fitted with 50 plus inch tires and sophisticated GPS systems. Iceland is one of the last countries where people believe in taking full responsibility for their actions. If you are going outside of the cities, it is your responsibility to be able to handle yourself appropriately.
You cannot blame others or the government for what happens to you. They believe as soon as a government steps in and enacts rules in the effort to "keep people safe", they are in fact making people into victims instead of empowering them.
We were told that if one wanted to die, it is very easy to do it there. You are not going to find warning signs, directions nor solid barriers. Should you fall in the mid Atlantic ridge, for example, people would say that was too bad. The waters blowing out of geysers are over 250 degrees Celsius and if you stand in the wrong side of it, you'll get second degree burns.
The reason so many Icelanders are upset about the collapse of their economy is because the ones who have leveraged the country and fled have acted in a very non Icelandic way. They ought to own up to it, take responsibility and face their people.
And those who bought into the need to live beyond their means? They will pay for their actions for what may be a long time. The owner of my apartment told me that is why they have made the apartment available to renters -- so they can pay for their mortgage.
I heard no whining or complaints about it. They are doing what they need to do and they are confident with hard work, it will all work out.
My thoughts are with the Icelanders today. If there are any group of people who are capable of getting themselves out safely, they are. I'd put my money on them. Thanks for letting me know Lizzie.
The first thing my guide said to us was that there were 4 volcano alerts today and they can go off at anytime. The lot of us thought he was joking -- he wasn't. He went on to tell us that Iceland gets on average 3000 earthquakes a month.
One passenger asked if the government had a rescue plan in place for everyone -- he laughed. He said that people have 15 minutes to evacuate when a volcano or earthquake occurs and that families have an evacuation plan in place and practice it.
No one counts on someone coming for them right away. People are completely responsible for their own safety. Icelanders can come across hard as nails. Most if not all of the interior roads in Iceland over the winter are not passable and those who venture or live in such terrain have vehicles that can cross rivers without stalling.
These "Super Jeeps" can cost upwards of $200000 - $300000 and are fitted with 50 plus inch tires and sophisticated GPS systems. Iceland is one of the last countries where people believe in taking full responsibility for their actions. If you are going outside of the cities, it is your responsibility to be able to handle yourself appropriately.
You cannot blame others or the government for what happens to you. They believe as soon as a government steps in and enacts rules in the effort to "keep people safe", they are in fact making people into victims instead of empowering them.
We were told that if one wanted to die, it is very easy to do it there. You are not going to find warning signs, directions nor solid barriers. Should you fall in the mid Atlantic ridge, for example, people would say that was too bad. The waters blowing out of geysers are over 250 degrees Celsius and if you stand in the wrong side of it, you'll get second degree burns.
The reason so many Icelanders are upset about the collapse of their economy is because the ones who have leveraged the country and fled have acted in a very non Icelandic way. They ought to own up to it, take responsibility and face their people.
And those who bought into the need to live beyond their means? They will pay for their actions for what may be a long time. The owner of my apartment told me that is why they have made the apartment available to renters -- so they can pay for their mortgage.
I heard no whining or complaints about it. They are doing what they need to do and they are confident with hard work, it will all work out.
My thoughts are with the Icelanders today. If there are any group of people who are capable of getting themselves out safely, they are. I'd put my money on them. Thanks for letting me know Lizzie.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Iceland Review Pt 2
One of D's friends when he found out I was going to Iceland exclaimed "Why would she want to do that? Aren't they a 3rd world country now?" It seems like a lot of people (except me) knew about their economical collapse a few years ago.
I had a chance to ask the owner of my apartment what happened? She told me that due to corruption and over confidence in the government, the country's monies were being wasted and businesses (mainly banks) were allowed to loan money to people who really shouldn't be borrowing.
Sounds familiar. So I asked if it was similar to what happened in North America, Europe etc? She said that it is worse. The amounts that have been leveraged is higher per capita. They have been living big.
Home prices are down 50% still and their mortgage rates are now linked to inflation and are in the double digits. Their currency has plummeted. The President has been replaced and most of the known corrupt politicians etc. have left for Norway.
People were buying holiday homes on lines of credit from the European branches of their banks in Euro because it was cheaper than their Krona. People had been spending 170% of what they made. Many housing and condo projects have been left midway and some people who have bought there are living without services.
Icelanders have enjoyed a standard of living that is much higher than some of the largest cities in Europe. They like to spend and buy the best. They also have no issue with debt. They work hard and many will voluntarily continue working until they are in their 70's.
A stroll down their main shopping street showcases fine clothing boutiques, people dressed really well and lots of nice, well maintained cars. They are a people who are highly educated and literate. They publish and buy more books per capita than any other country in the world.
I got a distinct impression, right from the start at the airport, that they may not really welcome visitors and wish to keep their country to themselves. They until recently, have not been interested in joining the European Union.
All the travellers I met exclaimed the same thing -- they had not been able to come to Iceland before because it was so expensive. Without knowing, I managed to plan my trip at a time where things are a few multiples cheaper.
There is a movement back to what Icelanders consider to be the core of who they are -- Total Personal Responsibility. More next post.
I had a chance to ask the owner of my apartment what happened? She told me that due to corruption and over confidence in the government, the country's monies were being wasted and businesses (mainly banks) were allowed to loan money to people who really shouldn't be borrowing.
Sounds familiar. So I asked if it was similar to what happened in North America, Europe etc? She said that it is worse. The amounts that have been leveraged is higher per capita. They have been living big.
Home prices are down 50% still and their mortgage rates are now linked to inflation and are in the double digits. Their currency has plummeted. The President has been replaced and most of the known corrupt politicians etc. have left for Norway.
People were buying holiday homes on lines of credit from the European branches of their banks in Euro because it was cheaper than their Krona. People had been spending 170% of what they made. Many housing and condo projects have been left midway and some people who have bought there are living without services.
Icelanders have enjoyed a standard of living that is much higher than some of the largest cities in Europe. They like to spend and buy the best. They also have no issue with debt. They work hard and many will voluntarily continue working until they are in their 70's.
A stroll down their main shopping street showcases fine clothing boutiques, people dressed really well and lots of nice, well maintained cars. They are a people who are highly educated and literate. They publish and buy more books per capita than any other country in the world.
I got a distinct impression, right from the start at the airport, that they may not really welcome visitors and wish to keep their country to themselves. They until recently, have not been interested in joining the European Union.
All the travellers I met exclaimed the same thing -- they had not been able to come to Iceland before because it was so expensive. Without knowing, I managed to plan my trip at a time where things are a few multiples cheaper.
There is a movement back to what Icelanders consider to be the core of who they are -- Total Personal Responsibility. More next post.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Iceland Review Pt 1
Ever since I met D almost 7 years ago now, I've started to have increased trouble with going away on my own. Over 90% of all my travels have been solo until then.
In fact, 3 days after our first date, I was going to the Caribbean. Half a year after that, I had gotten a ticket to the French Open at Roland Garros through their international lottery so I was going to dust off one of my lifelong ambitions.
I remember being in tears at the airport because I didn't want to go. It was as if I was one of those crying kids that didn't want to go to camp as the parents were dropping them off. Once I got through security, I was fine. I guess I just wanted to share the experience with him.
Well, I didn't cry on the day of Iceland trip but I grumbled about being too tired to go and wanting to stay home and was questioning what got into me back in January when I booked the trip.
Meanwhile D is just laughing and saying he goes through this every year with me while I denied it. He knows and I know that there is something in me that craves the solo exploration of new places. D doesn't have this and is not interested in cultivating it but I do. Where I get it from? Who knows? None of my family travels or moves for pleasure, just for work.
By far, this trip had the most moving parts (I'm sure when I make it to India or Africa, the scale will probably expand even more). I had 3 types of currency (Cdn, US, Euro) in order to navigate and eat my way through airports, 4 by the time I reached Iceland as I had to exchange Euro for Icelandic Krona at the airport. Plus there is the whole language thing...
They just had some snow when I arrived so I didn't see what the lava fields really looked like right away. What I didn't know was that in the south, they were evacuating people out of their homes because of avalanche warnings.
By the time I transferred to the bus station and started my walk to the apartment, I was getting really weary and a bit disoriented and forgot how to use my world phone. I forgot that I didn't have to use the area code and the + sign when dialing because it links into the local network of whichever country I'm in as if it was a local phone.
So after 3 attempts and hearing a bunch of Icelandic in my ear, I gave up and decided to start walking. I was supposed to call the owner of the apartment first. Luckily, I walked by a pay phone so I tried to used it without knowing how much a call cost.
I put in change I had and the phone wasn't working right because I could hear him but not the other way around. Tried the other phone and was successful. They really ought to label their phones with the cost!
I started walking and couldn't find that pathway I was supposed to take. He recommending that I not walk on the main roads as it was not as safe because it is semi highway but I couldn't find the path due to the snow whereas the roads and sidewalks were clear.
I later found out that there are pipes under the streets and major sidewalks which carry the gray waste water out of buildings and houses and serves to melt the snow and makes snowplows unnecessary. Private homes have this technology for their driveways too -- very cool. So I made my way on the main roads and couldn't find the link to the side street I wanted.
Turns out it is common there just to walk through things to get to the street you want and make your own path. It was Sunday morning in Reykjavik and people there party seriously everything weekend til 5am so the streets were dead. Eventually I made it and my diversion cost me 15 min or so.
My apartment was located in a fairly affluent area of Reykjavik. The cars in the driveways were Audi, BMW's and where I was staying, Porsches. My original plan was to stay here until I found this apartment. Where I was ended up costing more than the hotel but the flexibility and privacy I gained made it more than worth it.
Plus I get a kick out of staying in a place that costs more than all the real estate we own added up. Even with the 50% drop in the real estate market for Iceland, the houses in that subdivision would still be listed in the 700000 euro mark. Out of my league.
When my apartment orientation was over, I fired up my computer to send D a quick email before I crashed and found out that he had sent me a frantic email wondering where I was and should he be going to Boston?
It turns out that he had gotten a few calls from Icelandair wondering where I was and asking him if he knew because they couldn't find me(?) and if I didn't show up in 5 minutes, I was going to miss the flight. D told the fellow that I've been at the Boston airport all day and I had just told him I was heading to my gate. It was impossible I wasn't there.
I had no idea this was going on. Where was I? Sitting in my seat drinking water, thinking just how fortunate I was to have been upgraded to business class! Apparently, what had happened was that they changed planes after I had checked in and printed my boarding pass the day before so my seat number had changed though no on told me.
My pass triggered an error when they scanned it but they overrode it at the gate and let me on the flight. My new seat was one row behind in economy. Once the fellow announced my name on the plane and found me and checked that my boarding pass did say the seat I was in, they closed the flight and I got to enjoy my upgrade.
One thing I didn't know was that Icelandair will not serve you a meal if you are in economy. That's a first for me as all other transatlantic flights I've been on do. I got a meal this time but next time, I'll know to eat before boarding as I am not the biggest fan of airplane food.
I'm still shocked that they would go to such lengths to make sure I was on the flight. I cannot see any North American airline bothering to do that.
In fact, 3 days after our first date, I was going to the Caribbean. Half a year after that, I had gotten a ticket to the French Open at Roland Garros through their international lottery so I was going to dust off one of my lifelong ambitions.
I remember being in tears at the airport because I didn't want to go. It was as if I was one of those crying kids that didn't want to go to camp as the parents were dropping them off. Once I got through security, I was fine. I guess I just wanted to share the experience with him.
Well, I didn't cry on the day of Iceland trip but I grumbled about being too tired to go and wanting to stay home and was questioning what got into me back in January when I booked the trip.
Meanwhile D is just laughing and saying he goes through this every year with me while I denied it. He knows and I know that there is something in me that craves the solo exploration of new places. D doesn't have this and is not interested in cultivating it but I do. Where I get it from? Who knows? None of my family travels or moves for pleasure, just for work.
By far, this trip had the most moving parts (I'm sure when I make it to India or Africa, the scale will probably expand even more). I had 3 types of currency (Cdn, US, Euro) in order to navigate and eat my way through airports, 4 by the time I reached Iceland as I had to exchange Euro for Icelandic Krona at the airport. Plus there is the whole language thing...
They just had some snow when I arrived so I didn't see what the lava fields really looked like right away. What I didn't know was that in the south, they were evacuating people out of their homes because of avalanche warnings.
By the time I transferred to the bus station and started my walk to the apartment, I was getting really weary and a bit disoriented and forgot how to use my world phone. I forgot that I didn't have to use the area code and the + sign when dialing because it links into the local network of whichever country I'm in as if it was a local phone.
So after 3 attempts and hearing a bunch of Icelandic in my ear, I gave up and decided to start walking. I was supposed to call the owner of the apartment first. Luckily, I walked by a pay phone so I tried to used it without knowing how much a call cost.
I put in change I had and the phone wasn't working right because I could hear him but not the other way around. Tried the other phone and was successful. They really ought to label their phones with the cost!
I started walking and couldn't find that pathway I was supposed to take. He recommending that I not walk on the main roads as it was not as safe because it is semi highway but I couldn't find the path due to the snow whereas the roads and sidewalks were clear.
I later found out that there are pipes under the streets and major sidewalks which carry the gray waste water out of buildings and houses and serves to melt the snow and makes snowplows unnecessary. Private homes have this technology for their driveways too -- very cool. So I made my way on the main roads and couldn't find the link to the side street I wanted.
Turns out it is common there just to walk through things to get to the street you want and make your own path. It was Sunday morning in Reykjavik and people there party seriously everything weekend til 5am so the streets were dead. Eventually I made it and my diversion cost me 15 min or so.
My apartment was located in a fairly affluent area of Reykjavik. The cars in the driveways were Audi, BMW's and where I was staying, Porsches. My original plan was to stay here until I found this apartment. Where I was ended up costing more than the hotel but the flexibility and privacy I gained made it more than worth it.
Plus I get a kick out of staying in a place that costs more than all the real estate we own added up. Even with the 50% drop in the real estate market for Iceland, the houses in that subdivision would still be listed in the 700000 euro mark. Out of my league.
When my apartment orientation was over, I fired up my computer to send D a quick email before I crashed and found out that he had sent me a frantic email wondering where I was and should he be going to Boston?
It turns out that he had gotten a few calls from Icelandair wondering where I was and asking him if he knew because they couldn't find me(?) and if I didn't show up in 5 minutes, I was going to miss the flight. D told the fellow that I've been at the Boston airport all day and I had just told him I was heading to my gate. It was impossible I wasn't there.
I had no idea this was going on. Where was I? Sitting in my seat drinking water, thinking just how fortunate I was to have been upgraded to business class! Apparently, what had happened was that they changed planes after I had checked in and printed my boarding pass the day before so my seat number had changed though no on told me.
My pass triggered an error when they scanned it but they overrode it at the gate and let me on the flight. My new seat was one row behind in economy. Once the fellow announced my name on the plane and found me and checked that my boarding pass did say the seat I was in, they closed the flight and I got to enjoy my upgrade.
One thing I didn't know was that Icelandair will not serve you a meal if you are in economy. That's a first for me as all other transatlantic flights I've been on do. I got a meal this time but next time, I'll know to eat before boarding as I am not the biggest fan of airplane food.
I'm still shocked that they would go to such lengths to make sure I was on the flight. I cannot see any North American airline bothering to do that.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Details
The details of D's new job are slowly trickling in. I know he is impatient for the "sign up paper work phase" to be over. There are background and criminal checks and 20 pages worth of contract materials to read etc. etc. But he tells me it is finally wrapping up.
We found out he will not get his first pay cheque until the end of April because of the way the pay cycles work. It's a bit strange as he will get paid on a Monday. Most companies pay on Thursdays or Fridays. At least the cycle falls in line with our mortgage. That was my biggest concern.
Now we just have to figure out cash flow for next month's time. We are anticipating he will be getting his final pay and severance on his last day of work but am not sure. Some emails to HR ought to clear that up. If not, we have enough cash floating around I can maneuver to cover should need be.
This just re-emphasizes to me the importance of liquidity. That is by far the biggest lesson I learned since the economy headed down. I had no real cash stores to speak of. I took for granted that monies in my non registered account (which are invested in stocks) would always make me money and why would anyone bother with simple savings? Fortunately I know better now.
We found out he will not get his first pay cheque until the end of April because of the way the pay cycles work. It's a bit strange as he will get paid on a Monday. Most companies pay on Thursdays or Fridays. At least the cycle falls in line with our mortgage. That was my biggest concern.
Now we just have to figure out cash flow for next month's time. We are anticipating he will be getting his final pay and severance on his last day of work but am not sure. Some emails to HR ought to clear that up. If not, we have enough cash floating around I can maneuver to cover should need be.
This just re-emphasizes to me the importance of liquidity. That is by far the biggest lesson I learned since the economy headed down. I had no real cash stores to speak of. I took for granted that monies in my non registered account (which are invested in stocks) would always make me money and why would anyone bother with simple savings? Fortunately I know better now.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Going Home
The first order of business I will do when I get back into the regular swing of things is to change back the frequency of our mortgage payments to bi-weekly. I had requested a change to bi-monthly to match my pay just in case D was unable to find work.
I've learned a lot of philosophical ideas from the Icelanders since I've been here. Also, I had no appreciation of what has happened to them financially as a nation either until I arrived, talk to people and read some periodicals. Once I get my head around it all, I'm going to dedicate a post or 2 about it.
I'm getting ready now to go home. It has taken a long time in transit to get here, to get back and I am very glad I made the effort. Now that I know how things work, it feels like another home base to me. Can't say when I'll return as there are other places I would like to see next but Iceland has a way of slowly creeping into you when you least expect it.
I've learned a lot of philosophical ideas from the Icelanders since I've been here. Also, I had no appreciation of what has happened to them financially as a nation either until I arrived, talk to people and read some periodicals. Once I get my head around it all, I'm going to dedicate a post or 2 about it.
I'm getting ready now to go home. It has taken a long time in transit to get here, to get back and I am very glad I made the effort. Now that I know how things work, it feels like another home base to me. Can't say when I'll return as there are other places I would like to see next but Iceland has a way of slowly creeping into you when you least expect it.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
In Recovery
Oh, it is raining again today? Of course it is!
I'm taking it easy for the next couple of days in order to recover from the last couple of days of activity. I'm sore from the scrambling and climbing. That bruise on my foot is also located inconveniently where it gets rubbed as I walk. Luckily the places I have been have been so great I forgot about it.
The south shore areas are really awe inspiring. Also, I'm developing a great love for black sand beaches and Icelandic lamb soup (even though I've never really enjoyed lamb and am working on eating less meat).
The sheep here aren't like what I'm used to seeing. They look more like fluffy mountain goats with curved horns. I also got to hike behind a waterfall yesterday as well. It was surprisingly peaceful and quiet back there.
I'm on the last leg of my trip. Back home in a few days.
I'm taking it easy for the next couple of days in order to recover from the last couple of days of activity. I'm sore from the scrambling and climbing. That bruise on my foot is also located inconveniently where it gets rubbed as I walk. Luckily the places I have been have been so great I forgot about it.
The south shore areas are really awe inspiring. Also, I'm developing a great love for black sand beaches and Icelandic lamb soup (even though I've never really enjoyed lamb and am working on eating less meat).
The sheep here aren't like what I'm used to seeing. They look more like fluffy mountain goats with curved horns. I also got to hike behind a waterfall yesterday as well. It was surprisingly peaceful and quiet back there.
I'm on the last leg of my trip. Back home in a few days.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Icelandic Horse 1, Me 0
I fell of my horse yesterday. Yup, I did. (D, have you stopped laughing yet?)
Apparently, my horse had "spring feelings" for another horse that was going the other way and wanted to follow without telling me about it. She tried it again, once I got back on but I was ready this time and the rest was fine as we were ending and were very close to the stables.
The horses are so beautiful. I was on a private ride through the lava fields. So I was very fortunate I did not fall on a rock or a pile of poop either! It was one of those falls where everything happened in slow motion and I remember thinking about how slow it was while I was falling.
Luckily, as I know how to fall, I just walked away with a bruise on my foot, probably from the stirrup. Not enough to keep me away from my longest travel day yet down to the south coast today.
Apparently, my horse had "spring feelings" for another horse that was going the other way and wanted to follow without telling me about it. She tried it again, once I got back on but I was ready this time and the rest was fine as we were ending and were very close to the stables.
The horses are so beautiful. I was on a private ride through the lava fields. So I was very fortunate I did not fall on a rock or a pile of poop either! It was one of those falls where everything happened in slow motion and I remember thinking about how slow it was while I was falling.
Luckily, as I know how to fall, I just walked away with a bruise on my foot, probably from the stirrup. Not enough to keep me away from my longest travel day yet down to the south coast today.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
D Got It!
I am very grateful and pleased to report that D got a job offer (for the position he really wants) yesterday and accepted.
He and I are delighted, as you can imagine, and he can work through the last couple of weeks in his current job in peace knowing the transition will be seamless. Thank you all for your best wishes. The universe heard it!
I had gone into the interior of Iceland yesterday and spent 7hrs being pummeled by sleet and rain with 6 other courageous souls. Man, was it not easy. I do feel a bit beat up this morning.
You really come to appreciate the value of investing in good gear. Water repellent is not waterproof and wind resistant is not wind proof and a good sturdy pair of hiking socks and boots are worth its weight in gold as some of my colleagues found out yesterday. I think they are going to hit this store today before planning any more outings.
Was going to go meet and ride some Icelandic horses today -- have a couple of hours to decide but need to wake up first! It is one of those mornings when I wish I drank coffee!
He and I are delighted, as you can imagine, and he can work through the last couple of weeks in his current job in peace knowing the transition will be seamless. Thank you all for your best wishes. The universe heard it!
I had gone into the interior of Iceland yesterday and spent 7hrs being pummeled by sleet and rain with 6 other courageous souls. Man, was it not easy. I do feel a bit beat up this morning.
You really come to appreciate the value of investing in good gear. Water repellent is not waterproof and wind resistant is not wind proof and a good sturdy pair of hiking socks and boots are worth its weight in gold as some of my colleagues found out yesterday. I think they are going to hit this store today before planning any more outings.
Was going to go meet and ride some Icelandic horses today -- have a couple of hours to decide but need to wake up first! It is one of those mornings when I wish I drank coffee!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Iceland Calling
After almost 23 hrs of travel, I made it to Iceland. Got lost finding my way to the apartment and am thinking that my Icelandic course didn't prepare me well enough...
The first day is usually spent getting my bearings, finding places to eat, buying food and adapting to the new time zone. It is just past 1pm and I am finding it warm. I knew the weather wasn't going to be as cold as what I'm used to in Canada but I didn't expect it to feel as warm even though it is 7 C. I'm glad I am wearing my raincoat and not anything made of down.
I slept 13 hrs and the first thing I ate today when I got up at noon was a chocolate covered lemony vanilla ice cream popsicle! It was awesome! My apartment is fabulous. Very modern and lux and full of original art. The owners are both designers and have great taste.
I don't usually bring a computer with me on a trip but it is really convenient to keep in touch especially with D looking for jobs and also to check weather, booking excursions and flight news. I use Skype to call home. This new computer of mine and bluetooth headset has paid for itself already with respect to that and for killing time during my 6 hr layover at Boston Logan.
So far the cost of things aren't unreasonable. I'm not thinking of the currency devaluation or conversion, I'm looking at the cost of items in their dollars vs what I'm used to at home. It is more but not so much that it makes me stop or gasp or swear : ). It is definitely cheaper than what I see at our ski resort in BC. So it looks like I will come in under what I budgeted for spending. I think I'm buying some more of those popsicles!
Oh yeah, check out this week's Carnival of Personal Finance - Women in History Edition -- for some great quotes and articles, hosted by SimplyForties.
The first day is usually spent getting my bearings, finding places to eat, buying food and adapting to the new time zone. It is just past 1pm and I am finding it warm. I knew the weather wasn't going to be as cold as what I'm used to in Canada but I didn't expect it to feel as warm even though it is 7 C. I'm glad I am wearing my raincoat and not anything made of down.
I slept 13 hrs and the first thing I ate today when I got up at noon was a chocolate covered lemony vanilla ice cream popsicle! It was awesome! My apartment is fabulous. Very modern and lux and full of original art. The owners are both designers and have great taste.
I don't usually bring a computer with me on a trip but it is really convenient to keep in touch especially with D looking for jobs and also to check weather, booking excursions and flight news. I use Skype to call home. This new computer of mine and bluetooth headset has paid for itself already with respect to that and for killing time during my 6 hr layover at Boston Logan.
So far the cost of things aren't unreasonable. I'm not thinking of the currency devaluation or conversion, I'm looking at the cost of items in their dollars vs what I'm used to at home. It is more but not so much that it makes me stop or gasp or swear : ). It is definitely cheaper than what I see at our ski resort in BC. So it looks like I will come in under what I budgeted for spending. I think I'm buying some more of those popsicles!
Oh yeah, check out this week's Carnival of Personal Finance - Women in History Edition -- for some great quotes and articles, hosted by SimplyForties.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Interview Updates
D's interviews, all 4 of them went well yesterday. Two were anticipated and 2 were surprise ones that popped up last minute. He was exhausted by the end of the day as you can imagine.
It's going to be an easy going recovery weekend in anticipation of hopefully another full week of second interviews and maybe a job offer would be nice?
One position stood out for him. It is the contract one with potential of it becoming full time in 6 months. He is the most excited about it because of the scale and potential of the position. There will be some travel which is fine with him. He is hoping to hear from them next week the most.
If this position ends up being the one, it would be yet another form of contract work we have not heard of before. Apparently, this position is still expected to pay more and the company collects taxes and pays for the standard government deductions?
So you wouldn't be considered self employed and in that case, would mean unemployment insurance would still be available and it would also mean we wouldn't have to put away our own version of self insurance. Won't know for sure until an offer is on paper.
It's going to be an easy going recovery weekend in anticipation of hopefully another full week of second interviews and maybe a job offer would be nice?
One position stood out for him. It is the contract one with potential of it becoming full time in 6 months. He is the most excited about it because of the scale and potential of the position. There will be some travel which is fine with him. He is hoping to hear from them next week the most.
If this position ends up being the one, it would be yet another form of contract work we have not heard of before. Apparently, this position is still expected to pay more and the company collects taxes and pays for the standard government deductions?
So you wouldn't be considered self employed and in that case, would mean unemployment insurance would still be available and it would also mean we wouldn't have to put away our own version of self insurance. Won't know for sure until an offer is on paper.
Friday, March 5, 2010
New Ideas
In all the "excitement" that was this week, forgot to mention that the Bank of Canada rate has remained unchanged. So our mortgage rates stay put.
A couple of out of province opportunities have popped up for D and we are exploring the merits of those right now -- how much it costs to relocate, what the real estate markets are like there and what job opportunities there would be for me. The next steps would be to look at the US and Europe.
A couple of out of province opportunities have popped up for D and we are exploring the merits of those right now -- how much it costs to relocate, what the real estate markets are like there and what job opportunities there would be for me. The next steps would be to look at the US and Europe.
Right now I'm enjoying thinking about all the neat potential places to live and work. I may change my mind about that in 6 months but for now, as we are not tied down to any area per say, it is fun to dream.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
A Bit of Everything
It's month end round up time for me and in February I was able to bring home $567.72 net more than projected. Pretty pleased with the bonus.
On a fun note, I will be able to make up for the cancelled driving lessons/classes last year this coming April. It will bring me one step closer to taking a rally driving course some time in the future.
D has his first interview Friday. Fingers and toes crossed that they will be a good fit for each other.
He has applied to both full time and contract positions and we have been discussing the pros and cons of contract work. The pay is higher, most often 50 - 100% more than full time salaries but you get no benefits, no security and no chance of unemployment insurance after.
So why would you consider such a beast? Larger companies may wish to see what you can do first before offering a permanent position. Some professions lend itself to contract work -- D is in one such profession.
That would also mean both of us would be self employed. There would be increased bookkeeping duties and need for more savings put aside as we would have to create D's own version of "unemployment insurance". So I for see the first year of such work to be a foundation building year.
A small glitch with respect to attaining currency for my trip. The Iceland Krona has become devalued enough whereby currency exchange places are having a hard time getting it and do not want to buy it back. I've decided to bring Euro to exchange once I arrive.
Apparently Iceland is pretty much a cashless society. People are actually known to buy ice cream cones with plastic. For foreigners like me, it may sound neat but the exchange fees that get charged with each debit/credit purchase may not be so neat. I tend to only used credit cards overseas for moderate to large purchases.
On a fun note, I will be able to make up for the cancelled driving lessons/classes last year this coming April. It will bring me one step closer to taking a rally driving course some time in the future.
D has his first interview Friday. Fingers and toes crossed that they will be a good fit for each other.
He has applied to both full time and contract positions and we have been discussing the pros and cons of contract work. The pay is higher, most often 50 - 100% more than full time salaries but you get no benefits, no security and no chance of unemployment insurance after.
So why would you consider such a beast? Larger companies may wish to see what you can do first before offering a permanent position. Some professions lend itself to contract work -- D is in one such profession.
That would also mean both of us would be self employed. There would be increased bookkeeping duties and need for more savings put aside as we would have to create D's own version of "unemployment insurance". So I for see the first year of such work to be a foundation building year.
A small glitch with respect to attaining currency for my trip. The Iceland Krona has become devalued enough whereby currency exchange places are having a hard time getting it and do not want to buy it back. I've decided to bring Euro to exchange once I arrive.
Apparently Iceland is pretty much a cashless society. People are actually known to buy ice cream cones with plastic. For foreigners like me, it may sound neat but the exchange fees that get charged with each debit/credit purchase may not be so neat. I tend to only used credit cards overseas for moderate to large purchases.
Credit Card Prep
Due in increased fraud, credit card companies recommend you give them a call when you are about to travel or when you are expecting to spend a larger than normal sum of money so that purchases won't get flagged by the security computer as being potentially fraudulent.
That was on my list to do today but I tackled it last night.
First it was Visa. They wanted to know exactly when I'd be where and if I was going to spend more than $1000 in a single transaction, where and when would that be? I almost laughed out loud. How do people know exactly when and where they are going to make a big purchase when they haven't been there before? I think the agent realized just how ridiculous that question was.
Second it was MasterCard. Their automated system include a travel notification choice. So right off the bat, they seemed to be more "with it". Once I got to a live person, it changed. It was worse than getting my teeth cleaned.
Finally it was Amex. By far the easiest call. The agent happened to have gone to Iceland before and was gushing about how beautiful she remembered it to be and wished me a great trip. I got the distinct feeling they expect people to travel and this procedure is not a big deal. I like that.
At one time, with the thought of making things easier, I had planned to pare down to just my Visa. Until a trip to France made me decide otherwise. If you forget your pin number, Visa will not give you one over the phone, whereas MC and Amex will.
It is also easier to call MC and AMEX from overseas than Visa. We found that out after 40 mins at a payphone, also in France. Thus our purchase of a world phone. Now that most credit cards are changing over to chip cards, hopefully there will be less of a need for merchants to call to verify theirs and your identity at each point of purchase.
That was on my list to do today but I tackled it last night.
First it was Visa. They wanted to know exactly when I'd be where and if I was going to spend more than $1000 in a single transaction, where and when would that be? I almost laughed out loud. How do people know exactly when and where they are going to make a big purchase when they haven't been there before? I think the agent realized just how ridiculous that question was.
Second it was MasterCard. Their automated system include a travel notification choice. So right off the bat, they seemed to be more "with it". Once I got to a live person, it changed. It was worse than getting my teeth cleaned.
Finally it was Amex. By far the easiest call. The agent happened to have gone to Iceland before and was gushing about how beautiful she remembered it to be and wished me a great trip. I got the distinct feeling they expect people to travel and this procedure is not a big deal. I like that.
At one time, with the thought of making things easier, I had planned to pare down to just my Visa. Until a trip to France made me decide otherwise. If you forget your pin number, Visa will not give you one over the phone, whereas MC and Amex will.
It is also easier to call MC and AMEX from overseas than Visa. We found that out after 40 mins at a payphone, also in France. Thus our purchase of a world phone. Now that most credit cards are changing over to chip cards, hopefully there will be less of a need for merchants to call to verify theirs and your identity at each point of purchase.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Enough of the Talk, Reality Hits
Remember all the posts and talk about preparedness last year? Well, the rubber hit the road for us yesterday in the form of D being told that he and others are being downsized in a month.
When I got the call, I immediately got into my triage mode whereby I become very quiet and serious, ready to go. D deals with things differently and likes to make light of things when really, I know he is fuming mad and in shock.
I was waiting for him just to come out and say how he felt -- but he is a guy and I knew that underneath all the "it's ok", there is emotion there waiting to come out. It is the first time this has happened to him and I know he was hoping to go through his whole working life without experiencing this.
Meanwhile, I worked on my spreadsheet and made a list of things to discuss. We plan our life/lifestyle based on the idea that we are each other's back up. That one of us can carry the load should the other be unable to continue for any reason. This tests just how accurate we are in our planning.
So, I had to reacquaint myself with the numbers that D is responsible for, plug them into my spreadsheet after finding out just how long his regular pay, severance, bonus (yes, he did get one) will last. The point it runs out (assuming no new job yet), is the switchover point for us. I will takeover then.
It looks like it will be mid May/early June, depending on how much the tax man takes from the severance. He has been with the company 3 years and got 8 weeks as severance. I believe it to be really good as I think they only have to pay 1 week for every year of service.
Other steps we are taking to hedge ourselves include changes to our mortgage payments. I have decided to temporarily stop mortgage prepayments and keep the money as cash. Also, as I get paid bi-monthly vs. D's bi weekly, I've changed our mortgage frequency to bi-monthly just in case it goes that far.
That move increases our amortization by 5 months as it eliminates the extra month of payments but I'm hoping this will get switched back in no time. I'd rather be over prepared and not need it than be under and have to draw from our non registered savings. Don't want to do that.
As I don't like to leave any stone unturned, we also talked about cancelling upcoming trips. After looking at cancellation fees and penalties, it looks like the money we get back may not be worth it. We have time to revisit it later. My trip to Iceland is very soon and too late to change. Hate leaving at this time even though D says he is fine with it.
We went as far as projecting what we would do a year from now should things stay the same. Technically, as long as I can hang on, things would be ok. D is also learning about unemployment insurance and what that's about.
Our trump card is the cottage. This would be a good time to put it up for sale and interest rates are low and people would want to have it ready for the season. It is paid for and if sold, we would be mortgage free. We aren't ready to let it go yet, so we will revisit this option in a year, if necessary. And selling the ski condo is, at least right now, non negotiable for either of us.
Meanwhile D has applied for a number of positions and hopes to be called for interviews shortly. Also, should he find another job within his current company before his termination date, he forfeits his severance as things would just continue on as if "nothing happened".
When I got the call, I immediately got into my triage mode whereby I become very quiet and serious, ready to go. D deals with things differently and likes to make light of things when really, I know he is fuming mad and in shock.
I was waiting for him just to come out and say how he felt -- but he is a guy and I knew that underneath all the "it's ok", there is emotion there waiting to come out. It is the first time this has happened to him and I know he was hoping to go through his whole working life without experiencing this.
Meanwhile, I worked on my spreadsheet and made a list of things to discuss. We plan our life/lifestyle based on the idea that we are each other's back up. That one of us can carry the load should the other be unable to continue for any reason. This tests just how accurate we are in our planning.
So, I had to reacquaint myself with the numbers that D is responsible for, plug them into my spreadsheet after finding out just how long his regular pay, severance, bonus (yes, he did get one) will last. The point it runs out (assuming no new job yet), is the switchover point for us. I will takeover then.
It looks like it will be mid May/early June, depending on how much the tax man takes from the severance. He has been with the company 3 years and got 8 weeks as severance. I believe it to be really good as I think they only have to pay 1 week for every year of service.
Other steps we are taking to hedge ourselves include changes to our mortgage payments. I have decided to temporarily stop mortgage prepayments and keep the money as cash. Also, as I get paid bi-monthly vs. D's bi weekly, I've changed our mortgage frequency to bi-monthly just in case it goes that far.
That move increases our amortization by 5 months as it eliminates the extra month of payments but I'm hoping this will get switched back in no time. I'd rather be over prepared and not need it than be under and have to draw from our non registered savings. Don't want to do that.
As I don't like to leave any stone unturned, we also talked about cancelling upcoming trips. After looking at cancellation fees and penalties, it looks like the money we get back may not be worth it. We have time to revisit it later. My trip to Iceland is very soon and too late to change. Hate leaving at this time even though D says he is fine with it.
We went as far as projecting what we would do a year from now should things stay the same. Technically, as long as I can hang on, things would be ok. D is also learning about unemployment insurance and what that's about.
Our trump card is the cottage. This would be a good time to put it up for sale and interest rates are low and people would want to have it ready for the season. It is paid for and if sold, we would be mortgage free. We aren't ready to let it go yet, so we will revisit this option in a year, if necessary. And selling the ski condo is, at least right now, non negotiable for either of us.
Meanwhile D has applied for a number of positions and hopes to be called for interviews shortly. Also, should he find another job within his current company before his termination date, he forfeits his severance as things would just continue on as if "nothing happened".
Monday, March 1, 2010
Debate
I participated in a discussion with a couple of young professionals (I'll call them E) frustrated by their parents who did not seem to understand why they weren't getting ahead as quickly as they "should". Some interesting points came up.
E's parent's, successful baby boomers who recently retired felt that after 10 yrs of working, E ought to have more assets, more vacations, more real estate.
After all, E's parents were starting to peak in their careers and already had a family and were spending weekends on their boat by then. In fact, they were looking to buy land to build a cottage.
I'm glad they weren't my parents because I could already feel my blood get warm. I don't feel that this is a valid comparison. Here are some differences we came up with.
E's parent's, successful baby boomers who recently retired felt that after 10 yrs of working, E ought to have more assets, more vacations, more real estate.
After all, E's parents were starting to peak in their careers and already had a family and were spending weekends on their boat by then. In fact, they were looking to buy land to build a cottage.
I'm glad they weren't my parents because I could already feel my blood get warm. I don't feel that this is a valid comparison. Here are some differences we came up with.
- E's parents never had to attend university to secure their corporate and government jobs.
- A base university (or college in the US) education without living on campus is still going to cost a pretty penny. As E is paying for their education themselves, they graduate with debt.
- You couldn't get E's parents' jobs nowadays without a post secondary education and be totally bilingual.
- An obvious point is the pension. E's parents, as they never had to save because they knew they had an iron clad fully indexed pension, were used to spending what they made so they felt that if you made "x", it meant a certain lifestyle should ensue.
- E's parents do not know what it means or how much they would have had to put aside to create what they are enjoying as a pension. Their 6 figure pensions each are worth millions.
- Had E's parents not have a pension, they wouldn't have been able to afford the lifestyle they have become used to.
- Job security and loyalty isn't the same anymore. It is hard to find someone who is a younger adult who feels they are going to stay or be able to stay working for the same company for the rest of their lives.
- In Canada, most jobs are contract ones now -- no benefits. Extended health care insurance cost money.
- Of course there is the whole real estate growth aspect. E's parents' home benefited from the capital appreciation over many decades so now it is worth 5 times what they paid for it. Great news though not wealth they had to build with their own 2 hands.
- E lives in the city I wrote about yesterday and the home I featured is in the price range of what they have bought and also in the range of what E's parents home is worth. It is a different reality to buy a home in current dollars with current income vs. having a home rise to that dollar value. E's parents have never had to pay that much for anything.
I'm sure after we left, the debate continued. I cannot imagine being able to spend most of our take home monies on anything we want and know I'll have even more to spend in retirement.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Big City vs Little City
As I have mentioned previously, we moved away from the "big city" to get away from the smog, the hurrying and the higher cost of living.
One of the sections in our national newspaper I frequent is the real estate one where they feature some of the recent "done deals" home sales in various parts of the city.
One such deal was in the area I used to live while going to school and where had I stayed, would have wanted to buy in. It is a pretty sought after location for families as it is close to a couple of well know public and private schools.
It sold for $722000. In order to afford it, the couple who bought it would need to gross approximately $12000/month, put $50000 down, pay $21000 or so in default mortgage insurance and be ok with $3400/month mortgage payment for 25 yrs. The mortgage rate is a 2.25%, 5 yr variable.
We are currently paying just over $4000/month total (regular mortgage and prepayment) so the amounts are similar. We'll get it done in a few years, not 25.
I guess we could afford something like that house above if we wanted to as cash flow wise, it can work but I wouldn't want to pay a mortgage til I was 63 yrs old. And another thing, it is half the house we currently live in and on 1/3rd the lot.
Everyone views value differently. If anything, I make more money not being in the bigger cities so the combination works well for me. For D, he would make more money in a larger city.
Big picture, there are a lot of options and combinations of options that can work in the favour of someone looking to get out of debt or the rat race earlier.
If more people thought outside of the big city box, did some math, maybe a smaller city lifestyle could work and the benefits of more time, better air, less traffic jams, less debt would be possible sooner.
One of the sections in our national newspaper I frequent is the real estate one where they feature some of the recent "done deals" home sales in various parts of the city.
One such deal was in the area I used to live while going to school and where had I stayed, would have wanted to buy in. It is a pretty sought after location for families as it is close to a couple of well know public and private schools.
It sold for $722000. In order to afford it, the couple who bought it would need to gross approximately $12000/month, put $50000 down, pay $21000 or so in default mortgage insurance and be ok with $3400/month mortgage payment for 25 yrs. The mortgage rate is a 2.25%, 5 yr variable.
We are currently paying just over $4000/month total (regular mortgage and prepayment) so the amounts are similar. We'll get it done in a few years, not 25.
I guess we could afford something like that house above if we wanted to as cash flow wise, it can work but I wouldn't want to pay a mortgage til I was 63 yrs old. And another thing, it is half the house we currently live in and on 1/3rd the lot.
Everyone views value differently. If anything, I make more money not being in the bigger cities so the combination works well for me. For D, he would make more money in a larger city.
Big picture, there are a lot of options and combinations of options that can work in the favour of someone looking to get out of debt or the rat race earlier.
If more people thought outside of the big city box, did some math, maybe a smaller city lifestyle could work and the benefits of more time, better air, less traffic jams, less debt would be possible sooner.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Chile
My heart is going out to the people of Chile.
Mother nature has been tough on a lot of people and places already this year.
Mother nature has been tough on a lot of people and places already this year.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Rental Opportunity
An interesting opportunity to purchase a duplex has come up. D stumbled upon it yesterday and took steps to find out more. He has this spreadsheet that calculates cash flow on rental properties and when he comes across one, goes through the exercise to see if it will work. Most don't until now.
The back story is that the seller owns a half dozen homes and because of a recent job loss and incoming baby, is selling a few of them to get some cash in the bank. There has been offers tabled but they have not been completed due to financing.
After speaking with my banker, D found out that even though the new mortgage changes aren't supposed to come into effect until April, it has already changed at our bank. They are asking for 20% down on rental properties and it cannot come from an unsecured source.
I have less of a mental block with the idea of owning a duplex vs. renting out the cottage as I am not living there. There is a high possibility we'll be making an appointment to see it.
What we know -- the tenants both are new as of last fall, so they haven't been there a long time. From the pictures, the house has been completely renovated with the wiring, electrical upgrades and plumbing upgrades done.
The kitchen and styling are all modern. It looks like something I would be willing to rent. That is important to me. I wouldn't want to be slum lord. And it is cash flow positive. We know what the tenants do for a living and that they wish to stay.
On paper would mean more another asset and debt even though it is supposed to "run itself". I have no experience with this -- D does though. Do we want another property? Or the potential work? Is this particular city a good one to invest in?
We would have to fund the whole show should there be total vacancy and how do we feel about that? It really means, how do I feel about that as I would be the one funding it. Could I do that and continue our current plans at the same time? I know I am not willing to work more for this.
If we are able to answer these questions, we'll know pretty well if this avenue is one we will continue to pursue or not. Plus we'll learn some new stuff which is never a bad thing.
The back story is that the seller owns a half dozen homes and because of a recent job loss and incoming baby, is selling a few of them to get some cash in the bank. There has been offers tabled but they have not been completed due to financing.
After speaking with my banker, D found out that even though the new mortgage changes aren't supposed to come into effect until April, it has already changed at our bank. They are asking for 20% down on rental properties and it cannot come from an unsecured source.
I have less of a mental block with the idea of owning a duplex vs. renting out the cottage as I am not living there. There is a high possibility we'll be making an appointment to see it.
What we know -- the tenants both are new as of last fall, so they haven't been there a long time. From the pictures, the house has been completely renovated with the wiring, electrical upgrades and plumbing upgrades done.
The kitchen and styling are all modern. It looks like something I would be willing to rent. That is important to me. I wouldn't want to be slum lord. And it is cash flow positive. We know what the tenants do for a living and that they wish to stay.
On paper would mean more another asset and debt even though it is supposed to "run itself". I have no experience with this -- D does though. Do we want another property? Or the potential work? Is this particular city a good one to invest in?
We would have to fund the whole show should there be total vacancy and how do we feel about that? It really means, how do I feel about that as I would be the one funding it. Could I do that and continue our current plans at the same time? I know I am not willing to work more for this.
If we are able to answer these questions, we'll know pretty well if this avenue is one we will continue to pursue or not. Plus we'll learn some new stuff which is never a bad thing.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Life and Budgets
D filed his income tax last night. The lucky duck is getting money back -- monies that will be used to pay my tax bill. Luckily there will be enough left over to pay for half of our next trip. We are happy about that.
We are also awaiting the annual bonus news. Not working in a corporate environment, I get excited about stuff like this. His company has done really well despite the economy but you cannot count on it until it arrives in the form of a letter of notice that is supposed to come out next week. Fingers crossed!
D didn't get a raise last year. Those who did got 1%. So not sure about this year.
I never budget with the assumption there will be more money. In fact the last 2 years, our budget shrank. That is me being uber conservative about my income as well. I'd rather know we can live on less than be forced to cut back in surprise. I feel more confident and in control that way.
The extra monies we have left from living off of a smaller budget allows us to take a trip or 2 -- a great bonus for living frugally throughout the year. Even I have to admit that we are pretty bare bones right now. Not sure I will be able to find new places to trim for next year.
Winter is more than half over and we have accommodated to not going to the cottage for the first time this season. Though the roads have been good this year, it has been really enjoyable nesting at home.
I can now understand why most cottagers use their place seasonally (May to Oct) even though it can be used year round. It feels like we are more in tune with the yearly cycle. If the weather cooperates, we'll open ours up at the end of April.
We are also awaiting the annual bonus news. Not working in a corporate environment, I get excited about stuff like this. His company has done really well despite the economy but you cannot count on it until it arrives in the form of a letter of notice that is supposed to come out next week. Fingers crossed!
D didn't get a raise last year. Those who did got 1%. So not sure about this year.
I never budget with the assumption there will be more money. In fact the last 2 years, our budget shrank. That is me being uber conservative about my income as well. I'd rather know we can live on less than be forced to cut back in surprise. I feel more confident and in control that way.
The extra monies we have left from living off of a smaller budget allows us to take a trip or 2 -- a great bonus for living frugally throughout the year. Even I have to admit that we are pretty bare bones right now. Not sure I will be able to find new places to trim for next year.
Winter is more than half over and we have accommodated to not going to the cottage for the first time this season. Though the roads have been good this year, it has been really enjoyable nesting at home.
I can now understand why most cottagers use their place seasonally (May to Oct) even though it can be used year round. It feels like we are more in tune with the yearly cycle. If the weather cooperates, we'll open ours up at the end of April.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Role Reversal
I was witness to a disturbing role play between a mom and her 11 yr old son yesterday. She was describing how due to the breakdown of her current relationship with her boyfriend (not her son's father), she is in the midst of liquidating some assets to pay off debts.
Nothing really strange about that until her son piped up and started talking about the logistics of the sale of assets which got his mom started on how tiring and frustrating it has been and the son reminding her to breath and that it is ok to want to scream if it helps relieve the pressure....it was the look on the boy's face that caught me. He was the adult then.
You could see just how upset her son was getting about the whole situation. Holy smokes, he is just 11 yrs old. I'm not sure it is that appropriate to have someone his age so emotionally involved like this. It takes away their childhood. Plus this type of stuff is best left for the adults to handle.
I agree with teaching kids how to manage allowance and learn to save but not what's going on above. I don't feel it is fair to them to take on such a burden. If the mom needs to talk to someone about it, I feel another adult/family member/girl friend/guy friend etc. would be more appropriate.
Nothing really strange about that until her son piped up and started talking about the logistics of the sale of assets which got his mom started on how tiring and frustrating it has been and the son reminding her to breath and that it is ok to want to scream if it helps relieve the pressure....it was the look on the boy's face that caught me. He was the adult then.
You could see just how upset her son was getting about the whole situation. Holy smokes, he is just 11 yrs old. I'm not sure it is that appropriate to have someone his age so emotionally involved like this. It takes away their childhood. Plus this type of stuff is best left for the adults to handle.
I agree with teaching kids how to manage allowance and learn to save but not what's going on above. I don't feel it is fair to them to take on such a burden. If the mom needs to talk to someone about it, I feel another adult/family member/girl friend/guy friend etc. would be more appropriate.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Rise Up
I've gotten into the habit of waking up early. Mostly because D gets up early (6:30am) for work. At the start, I grumbled about being woken up as I work steady afternoons and chose those hours because I wanted to sleep in.
Now that I'm pretty used to it, I can definitely say I have become more productive. I write and read more. I've been a better friend as there is more time available to connect. And I get a lot of thinking time.
So my days end up being 16hrs long. My paid work starts when most work days are 50% over and it ends when most peoples' dinners are done. By the time my dinner is done and I've decompressed, it's nearly bed time again.
Now that I'm pretty used to it, I can definitely say I have become more productive. I write and read more. I've been a better friend as there is more time available to connect. And I get a lot of thinking time.
So my days end up being 16hrs long. My paid work starts when most work days are 50% over and it ends when most peoples' dinners are done. By the time my dinner is done and I've decompressed, it's nearly bed time again.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Limits
Do you need a carrot to keep motivated?
Our test driving Subarus was to learn some stuff as well as serve as D's carrot to keep himself excited about extra contract work. Any extra monies he makes will go towards travel and saving for a car he really really wants.
It was useful exercise as he found out he couldn't fit into one of the cars he liked. No use pining after something that doesn't actually work. It's a good metaphor for life. Gets you out of your head.
So on the same line, do you put mental and emotional limits on your life? Are you stronger than you think?
Being tested highlights my limits. Otherwise the roll of daily life doesn't usually get me out on enough of an edge (either way) to remind myself of my limitations.
I guess that is why some people work with mediation to test their mental and physical stillness. Why some people do extreme sports, to see just how far they can go. Why some people fast just to be able to feel and overcome the fear of hunger.
I know people who engage in all of the above activities and they tell me they feel the most alive when in that zone. The most in tune with the essence of who they are. And by doing so increases their capacity of what they can handle.
Our test driving Subarus was to learn some stuff as well as serve as D's carrot to keep himself excited about extra contract work. Any extra monies he makes will go towards travel and saving for a car he really really wants.
It was useful exercise as he found out he couldn't fit into one of the cars he liked. No use pining after something that doesn't actually work. It's a good metaphor for life. Gets you out of your head.
So on the same line, do you put mental and emotional limits on your life? Are you stronger than you think?
Being tested highlights my limits. Otherwise the roll of daily life doesn't usually get me out on enough of an edge (either way) to remind myself of my limitations.
I guess that is why some people work with mediation to test their mental and physical stillness. Why some people do extreme sports, to see just how far they can go. Why some people fast just to be able to feel and overcome the fear of hunger.
I know people who engage in all of the above activities and they tell me they feel the most alive when in that zone. The most in tune with the essence of who they are. And by doing so increases their capacity of what they can handle.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Bad Work Karma
I heard a story from a parent yesterday that made me wonder just how ungrateful some can be. The story is, their son (who is married and has children) has been unemployed for a while as their previous place of work closed.
Luckily, they got a secure job with great benefits which started 3 weeks ago.
Now they are steaming mad about this new job a lot of people would love to have, because their coffee break is 5 minutes shorter than it is supposed to be...as a company meeting cut into that time.
Did they not suffer enough on unemployment over the last year to be happy and grateful for the opportunity to properly support their family? What (if any) is this person even thinking?
As much as I do not love what I do every single day I do it, I am grateful for it. Personally I think it is bad Karma to be dissing your new job like that.
On a fun note, D and I are off to test drive Subarus today. So if you see one whizzing by at a high rate of speed, it may just be us! : )
Luckily, they got a secure job with great benefits which started 3 weeks ago.
Now they are steaming mad about this new job a lot of people would love to have, because their coffee break is 5 minutes shorter than it is supposed to be...as a company meeting cut into that time.
Did they not suffer enough on unemployment over the last year to be happy and grateful for the opportunity to properly support their family? What (if any) is this person even thinking?
As much as I do not love what I do every single day I do it, I am grateful for it. Personally I think it is bad Karma to be dissing your new job like that.
On a fun note, D and I are off to test drive Subarus today. So if you see one whizzing by at a high rate of speed, it may just be us! : )
Friday, February 19, 2010
Mortgage Summary 2009
We received our annual mortgage statement from the bank yesterday. It summarizes what happened to the mortgage for the entire 2009 year -- where we started from, how it ended, any interest changes and how much interest was paid.
It is useful from a big picture point of view and also for people who are eligible to write off mortgage interest if they run a home office.
As I track our mortgages like a hawk, I already knew where we started and ended so that wasn't new news. What was however, was the amount of interest we paid -- how much the bank made from us by lending us money to buy our homes.
It was shocking to see our main house costing $2043.47 and the ski condo costing $721.61 for the year. I don't believe those numbers are bad at all considering the amount we are borrowing.
The falling interest rates, a hallmark of 2009 helped to keep more of our money away from the banks.
It is useful from a big picture point of view and also for people who are eligible to write off mortgage interest if they run a home office.
As I track our mortgages like a hawk, I already knew where we started and ended so that wasn't new news. What was however, was the amount of interest we paid -- how much the bank made from us by lending us money to buy our homes.
It was shocking to see our main house costing $2043.47 and the ski condo costing $721.61 for the year. I don't believe those numbers are bad at all considering the amount we are borrowing.
The falling interest rates, a hallmark of 2009 helped to keep more of our money away from the banks.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Balance
I know it is not the full moon time of the month anymore but with the news and drama I've been hearing about, you'd think there was something celestial going on.
People we know are suddenly finding out they have cancer, others are in emotional distress fighting their own demons, some are getting signs they may lose their jobs and a few are in a lot of physical pain with no money to get help.
I know that difficulty exists at all times of day all year though it seems to hit home more when it happens around one's immediate sphere.
This is when I remind myself to just stop where I am and be grateful. As much as it can be overwhelming to feel unable to help or save everyone/everything that needs saving, just doing your best everyday with kindness helps to balance out the energies from all the injustices.
People we know are suddenly finding out they have cancer, others are in emotional distress fighting their own demons, some are getting signs they may lose their jobs and a few are in a lot of physical pain with no money to get help.
I know that difficulty exists at all times of day all year though it seems to hit home more when it happens around one's immediate sphere.
This is when I remind myself to just stop where I am and be grateful. As much as it can be overwhelming to feel unable to help or save everyone/everything that needs saving, just doing your best everyday with kindness helps to balance out the energies from all the injustices.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
New Mortgage Rules
New government mortgage lending rules were announced yesterday and has me wondering how others are reacting to it. Will is really make a difference? Or will it spark a real estate buying frenzy...what they are really hoping to happen in an effort to stimulate the economy?
Basically they are going to require people who want a variable rate mortgage, like the ones we have, to be able to qualify as if they are taking out a 5 year fixed rate term (usually a higher rate). This is supposed to enable them to keep affording the payments should rates go up.
I'm not convinced that it is that much harder to quality for a fixed rate vs. variable rate mortgage in the first place. But this announcement may make people who think they are on the cusp, panic and buy without thinking before these new rules come into place shortly.
The one change I feel will make a difference is with respect to income properties. Soon, purchases will require 20% down so as to deter speculators. I agree with this one.
It wasn't that long ago when the maximum length for mortgage amortization was 25. Then they started allowing longer and longer lengths of time. We in Canada no longer have 40 year amortizations but 35 years is still allowed. I still think it is too long. It is hard to feel free when you have that hanging over your head for decades.
Basically they are going to require people who want a variable rate mortgage, like the ones we have, to be able to qualify as if they are taking out a 5 year fixed rate term (usually a higher rate). This is supposed to enable them to keep affording the payments should rates go up.
I'm not convinced that it is that much harder to quality for a fixed rate vs. variable rate mortgage in the first place. But this announcement may make people who think they are on the cusp, panic and buy without thinking before these new rules come into place shortly.
The one change I feel will make a difference is with respect to income properties. Soon, purchases will require 20% down so as to deter speculators. I agree with this one.
It wasn't that long ago when the maximum length for mortgage amortization was 25. Then they started allowing longer and longer lengths of time. We in Canada no longer have 40 year amortizations but 35 years is still allowed. I still think it is too long. It is hard to feel free when you have that hanging over your head for decades.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Good to Go
I listened to my gut and it has paid off. Yesterday, I finally booked a one night hotel stay in Boston on my way home from Iceland. With the flights I have, it is impossible to make it home the same day.
Normally I would have had it done when I booked everything else back in January. But I just couldn't pull the trigger for this one.
I had found a couple of hotels that would be suitable and were reasonably priced. My rule of thumb for long travel days where I'm going to be exhausted is I will pay to be in a nicer environment especially if I will only need it for a short period of time as to ensure as much as possible, I will get some quiet rest and good food.
What was tripping me up was the shuttle service/ride to these hotels. I know I wouldn't feel like calling them up. Also in the morning, it usually means I add another hour to make sure I get back to the airport in time. I really wanted to be in the hotel that was attached to the airport so I could just walk but didn't want to pay $250US.
Something told me to check yesterday and for some reason, the advanced prepay rate had dropped to $119US. I took it and other than the transfers from Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, which I plan to buy once I land, I am pretty set to go.
Normally I would have had it done when I booked everything else back in January. But I just couldn't pull the trigger for this one.
I had found a couple of hotels that would be suitable and were reasonably priced. My rule of thumb for long travel days where I'm going to be exhausted is I will pay to be in a nicer environment especially if I will only need it for a short period of time as to ensure as much as possible, I will get some quiet rest and good food.
What was tripping me up was the shuttle service/ride to these hotels. I know I wouldn't feel like calling them up. Also in the morning, it usually means I add another hour to make sure I get back to the airport in time. I really wanted to be in the hotel that was attached to the airport so I could just walk but didn't want to pay $250US.
Something told me to check yesterday and for some reason, the advanced prepay rate had dropped to $119US. I took it and other than the transfers from Keflavik airport to Reykjavik, which I plan to buy once I land, I am pretty set to go.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Write Offs
Well, I wouldn't let myself do anything fun this morning until I got my 2010 bookkeeping started on Quicken. Each year requires a bit of an initial start up to set up the accounts I will be tracking and then the rest of the year is pretty easy.
The work itself doesn't take much brain power at all, just takes a little time. Because I am still using the 2001 version (I refuse to buy a new program when the older one does what I need), it isn't "smart" enough to carry over the same accounts year after year... or maybe I'm just not smart enough to figure out how to do it yet...
Either way, I'm happy to report it is set up and January's numbers are in!
Going through my tax categories brought something to light. The depreciation on my office equipment and vehicle are getting pretty low. Soon, I won't have any amount left, which technically means my stuff isn't worth anything anymore.
I know of a colleague whose bookkeeper told them it is time to buy a new car and to do some renovations to get some write offs because her depreciate numbers are nearing zero.
Personally I do not agree with spending money just to get a write off when the stuff you are replacing is just fine. I'll just deal with less to no depreciation which means slightly higher income taxes.
The work itself doesn't take much brain power at all, just takes a little time. Because I am still using the 2001 version (I refuse to buy a new program when the older one does what I need), it isn't "smart" enough to carry over the same accounts year after year... or maybe I'm just not smart enough to figure out how to do it yet...
Either way, I'm happy to report it is set up and January's numbers are in!
Going through my tax categories brought something to light. The depreciation on my office equipment and vehicle are getting pretty low. Soon, I won't have any amount left, which technically means my stuff isn't worth anything anymore.
I know of a colleague whose bookkeeper told them it is time to buy a new car and to do some renovations to get some write offs because her depreciate numbers are nearing zero.
Personally I do not agree with spending money just to get a write off when the stuff you are replacing is just fine. I'll just deal with less to no depreciation which means slightly higher income taxes.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Everyday Stuff
One financial milestone I'm excited to be hitting this year is a five digit main house mortgage amount. There is something therapeutic about not seeing 6 digits I'm looking forward to. A bit of extra breathing room you might say.
Someone I know who is in banking told me in a recent meeting that their bank forecasts a 2.5% increase in mortgage rates this year and 1.5% increase for 2011. If it were to be true, our rate would rise to where it was 2 years ago when we bought this house -- 4.5%. Oh well, what will be will be. One thing for sure, we would have taken advantage of the lower rates by paying extra so no regrets that way.
Since my last post on the negative and complaining person, I have found myself surprisingly more up. I have new found appreciation for my life. There is not much truly worry some. It is beyond my comprehension how it would feel to be that negative. I've felt fairly down at points in my history but I cannot say the same for prolonged negativity. Man, am I happy about that!
D and I celebrate the date of our first date monthly so Valentine's day is just another excuse to do something else fun. We are thinking of a day trip this weekend. Anyone going to celebrate this weekend?
Someone I know who is in banking told me in a recent meeting that their bank forecasts a 2.5% increase in mortgage rates this year and 1.5% increase for 2011. If it were to be true, our rate would rise to where it was 2 years ago when we bought this house -- 4.5%. Oh well, what will be will be. One thing for sure, we would have taken advantage of the lower rates by paying extra so no regrets that way.
Since my last post on the negative and complaining person, I have found myself surprisingly more up. I have new found appreciation for my life. There is not much truly worry some. It is beyond my comprehension how it would feel to be that negative. I've felt fairly down at points in my history but I cannot say the same for prolonged negativity. Man, am I happy about that!
D and I celebrate the date of our first date monthly so Valentine's day is just another excuse to do something else fun. We are thinking of a day trip this weekend. Anyone going to celebrate this weekend?
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Out of Patience
Sometimes it is just easier to not engage with someone who is argumentative or has to be "right". D and I have an unhappy "friend" (I believe that is no longer the case) who make everything about her. As she works mainly as a hobby, she has plenty of time to dwell on why the world doesn't send her the happiness she deserves.
Historically, she wasn't always this way. Life's "challenges" (in the form of not having enough vacations or boyfriends that care...) has hardened her to a not very likable person. Everything is about her comfort and her problems and why she has not been able to find someone who loves her enough to marry her and make her into a mother.
Our patience has just run out.
The harder I work, the more difficulty I have empathizing with people who "make stuff up" to worry about. I'm talking about someone who is very educated and worldly and has had more financial benefits then I'll likely see in my lifetime.
That doesn't make up for what I feel she didn't get -- Humility, tact, empathy, joy and self honestly. It goes to show you, money isn't everything.
I find it very useful to look at myself objectively to see what I am portraying out to the world. Am I behaving in a kind manner? Am I acting like a person other people would like to spend time around? Am I attracting goodness or repelling it? Sometimes the common link to not getting what you want is yourself.
Historically, she wasn't always this way. Life's "challenges" (in the form of not having enough vacations or boyfriends that care...) has hardened her to a not very likable person. Everything is about her comfort and her problems and why she has not been able to find someone who loves her enough to marry her and make her into a mother.
Our patience has just run out.
The harder I work, the more difficulty I have empathizing with people who "make stuff up" to worry about. I'm talking about someone who is very educated and worldly and has had more financial benefits then I'll likely see in my lifetime.
That doesn't make up for what I feel she didn't get -- Humility, tact, empathy, joy and self honestly. It goes to show you, money isn't everything.
I find it very useful to look at myself objectively to see what I am portraying out to the world. Am I behaving in a kind manner? Am I acting like a person other people would like to spend time around? Am I attracting goodness or repelling it? Sometimes the common link to not getting what you want is yourself.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
New Idea
I hit on an idea the other day I'm pretty excited about. Because I haven't actually worked out the cash flow logistics of it, I cannot say if it is viable.
The idea is staying with working 3 days a week once the mortgages are done but take 1 week off each month. This is in contrast with what I was thinking of doing, which is work 2 days a week the entire month.
Preliminary thoughts show a potential of enough income to fund the week off which would likely end up being a travel week somewhere. Whereas, if I were to take a week off while working 2 days a week, the budgeting gets tighter (6 working day month vs. 9).
I'm intrigued enough with the idea to think it through further. It looks like it will fall somewhere in between where I am currently and where I am planning to go.
The idea is staying with working 3 days a week once the mortgages are done but take 1 week off each month. This is in contrast with what I was thinking of doing, which is work 2 days a week the entire month.
Preliminary thoughts show a potential of enough income to fund the week off which would likely end up being a travel week somewhere. Whereas, if I were to take a week off while working 2 days a week, the budgeting gets tighter (6 working day month vs. 9).
I'm intrigued enough with the idea to think it through further. It looks like it will fall somewhere in between where I am currently and where I am planning to go.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Entitlement
I saw 2 different money role models growing up. My mother is a saver. My father felt entitled to buy collectibles because he worked so hard and long.
Neither parent is particularly happy, they just dealt with it differently. So that got me thinking about entitlement and how we respond to it.
Both parents affected me equally. I am able to sacrifice and save but I can also justify treating myself to a great meal out as a reward for a good month at work. (I am not into collectibles)
The influences I've picked up from them I want to be rid of include being a martyr and being overworked. Neither states of being promote balance and happiness.
When things got more prosperous for our family, they were not able to relax into enjoying life. The old habits were too ingrained and they found out they no longer understood each other, much less their children.
The current displays of entitlement I see in younger and fully formed adults seem different. Rarely have I seen examples of where it stemmed from overworking. Often it comes from people who aren't working enough. Credit has a lot to do with it I'm guessing and maybe even TV.
Neither parent is particularly happy, they just dealt with it differently. So that got me thinking about entitlement and how we respond to it.
Both parents affected me equally. I am able to sacrifice and save but I can also justify treating myself to a great meal out as a reward for a good month at work. (I am not into collectibles)
The influences I've picked up from them I want to be rid of include being a martyr and being overworked. Neither states of being promote balance and happiness.
When things got more prosperous for our family, they were not able to relax into enjoying life. The old habits were too ingrained and they found out they no longer understood each other, much less their children.
The current displays of entitlement I see in younger and fully formed adults seem different. Rarely have I seen examples of where it stemmed from overworking. Often it comes from people who aren't working enough. Credit has a lot to do with it I'm guessing and maybe even TV.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Stop the Whining
It looks like I will not be able to avoid having to shovel snow before D comes home from his trip. We have had such a mild winter, I was beginning to take if for granted. I have owned a snow blower in the past but now I go manual. Being on a corner lot with a driveway that can house 6 cars, there is a lot of area to cover. I do a pretty good job especially now that I walk, I am even more sensitive to sidewalk quality.
We know a number of people who come from fairly wealthy families ie. wouldn't have to work for a living wealthy. When money worries are not part of your life ever, I've found them to sometimes come across like they are insensitive to the everyday finances of "ordinary people". So their tolerance to being told "no, I cannot participate in that activity/trip/etc" can be low.
Sometimes they will whine or spring into a lecture about how they feel is the best way to do such and such and not realize that the person they are talking to already know that but are not able to execute plans in such an ideal way because of time and money constraints. I have even known such people to start complaining about the minutae because they just have too much time on their hands. I'm not convinced that I would want to trade places with them, even if it meant I would not have to work for a living.
We know a number of people who come from fairly wealthy families ie. wouldn't have to work for a living wealthy. When money worries are not part of your life ever, I've found them to sometimes come across like they are insensitive to the everyday finances of "ordinary people". So their tolerance to being told "no, I cannot participate in that activity/trip/etc" can be low.
Sometimes they will whine or spring into a lecture about how they feel is the best way to do such and such and not realize that the person they are talking to already know that but are not able to execute plans in such an ideal way because of time and money constraints. I have even known such people to start complaining about the minutae because they just have too much time on their hands. I'm not convinced that I would want to trade places with them, even if it meant I would not have to work for a living.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Giving Back
I just heard of an opportunity for a build with Habitat for Humanity right in my own city. First thing tomorrow I am going to call and see if they still need people to help. If so, I'm signing up D and I.
Before Christmas, I spoke with an administrator for our local branch of Big Brothers and Big Sisters to see if there was any need for volunteers. Apparently there is a waiting list for our city and the surrounding area.
D has been a big brother for almost 3 1/2 yrs in the past whereas I've never been involved with them before. My experience is with volunteer tutoring at a half way house for teens convicted of violent crimes. It was a memorable experience.
We are getting ready to give back again in a way that doesn't necessary involve a lot money. It will be hard not to want to give too much. Back when D was involved, he didn't have a lot of money so the activities were shooting hoops etc. with his little brother.
Now he is able to offer more. I guess it is something we will need to discuss during the interview. If everything goes well (I can't see why not), I would be open to learning more about becoming a foster parent.
Before Christmas, I spoke with an administrator for our local branch of Big Brothers and Big Sisters to see if there was any need for volunteers. Apparently there is a waiting list for our city and the surrounding area.
D has been a big brother for almost 3 1/2 yrs in the past whereas I've never been involved with them before. My experience is with volunteer tutoring at a half way house for teens convicted of violent crimes. It was a memorable experience.
We are getting ready to give back again in a way that doesn't necessary involve a lot money. It will be hard not to want to give too much. Back when D was involved, he didn't have a lot of money so the activities were shooting hoops etc. with his little brother.
Now he is able to offer more. I guess it is something we will need to discuss during the interview. If everything goes well (I can't see why not), I would be open to learning more about becoming a foster parent.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
What If?
Don't get me wrong. I am not being morbid here.
When I find myself alone (not sure if D does the same when I'm gone...), I wonder whether I would still be living in this house on my own?
I know I eat differently by myself -- even simpler and with even less meat.
To answer the question, I do not think so. I believe I would find this house too large for just me. It wouldn't have been something I would buy if I was single. I have never bought a house with the thought of it being a good one should I end up in a relationship so why start now?
Last night, I actually thought I would consider hiring someone to clean should I wish to stay here on my own. Housework is not one of my fortes.
The cottage would be sold. I would have no interest maintaining it on my own. If I chose to stay in this province, I could see myself looking for something else. If I don't want to hang around, then I would move out west. I wouldn't sell that property.
No, I'm not looking for an exit strategy. And they say that when one goes through huge emotional upheaval to not do anything rash for a year after as you may not be thinking straight enough to make such big decisions.
Isn't this train of thought why we make wills?
I strongly suspect that neither one of my parents have wills. It is a weird superstitious belief thing. You cannot even bring it up. They believe that drafting a will means they are ushering their own deaths earlier.
Maybe my willingness to analyse everything comes from my wanting to get away from such illogical thinking.
Oh yeah, our next trip destination has been firmed up -- Berlin! A great excuse to learn some German.
When I find myself alone (not sure if D does the same when I'm gone...), I wonder whether I would still be living in this house on my own?
I know I eat differently by myself -- even simpler and with even less meat.
To answer the question, I do not think so. I believe I would find this house too large for just me. It wouldn't have been something I would buy if I was single. I have never bought a house with the thought of it being a good one should I end up in a relationship so why start now?
Last night, I actually thought I would consider hiring someone to clean should I wish to stay here on my own. Housework is not one of my fortes.
The cottage would be sold. I would have no interest maintaining it on my own. If I chose to stay in this province, I could see myself looking for something else. If I don't want to hang around, then I would move out west. I wouldn't sell that property.
No, I'm not looking for an exit strategy. And they say that when one goes through huge emotional upheaval to not do anything rash for a year after as you may not be thinking straight enough to make such big decisions.
Isn't this train of thought why we make wills?
I strongly suspect that neither one of my parents have wills. It is a weird superstitious belief thing. You cannot even bring it up. They believe that drafting a will means they are ushering their own deaths earlier.
Maybe my willingness to analyse everything comes from my wanting to get away from such illogical thinking.
Oh yeah, our next trip destination has been firmed up -- Berlin! A great excuse to learn some German.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Plans
There will be a little extra bonus money this month, to the tune of $154.92 net, based on January earnings. Overall 2010 has been slower than '09. Everything is still balancing so not worried.
I have been thinking about what we'll do should mortgage interest rates go up. Where will the increased regular mortgage payments come from? Because we allocate monies to the penny in advance, I will have to juggle something else to make it work.
So what will decrease? Not sure yet -- likely our travel fund. I don't wish to decrease mortgage prepayments because they will slow us down a bit. In the end, it will depend on just how much payments increase that will determine the length we'll have to cut back on other things.
D has been encouraging me to come up with some ideas for a side business. I'm really not qualified to do much outside of what I do so the only thing I've come up with is some freelance work.
Right now, I haven't the energy to make the idea real though summer time may be the right timing for me to work on content for a web page and brainstorm about my target market etc.
I have been thinking about what we'll do should mortgage interest rates go up. Where will the increased regular mortgage payments come from? Because we allocate monies to the penny in advance, I will have to juggle something else to make it work.
So what will decrease? Not sure yet -- likely our travel fund. I don't wish to decrease mortgage prepayments because they will slow us down a bit. In the end, it will depend on just how much payments increase that will determine the length we'll have to cut back on other things.
D has been encouraging me to come up with some ideas for a side business. I'm really not qualified to do much outside of what I do so the only thing I've come up with is some freelance work.
Right now, I haven't the energy to make the idea real though summer time may be the right timing for me to work on content for a web page and brainstorm about my target market etc.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Fun Times
I'm flying solo for the next 6 days as D is off on his guys' ski trip. He sent me an email earlier today about how tired he was after his double black diamond ski lesson. Turns out his instructor grew up wind surfing at our cottage beach! What a small small world!
On a really humorous note, I have received a few "awards" from Livemocha, the site I'm using to learn Icelandic. Apparently I have been the Icelandic student of the week for 2 weeks in a row... although I think I may be the only one learning it right now... Don't ask me how to say "I am lost" because I haven't learned it yet but I can say "I am going to be climbing a ladder"... :)
It appears I have made a bit of a mental shift with respect to work. I find myself enjoying it more. Not being overly busy has its advantages. I may not be making more money than last year at this time but I don't feel as beat up afterwards either and that is worth something to me.
On a really humorous note, I have received a few "awards" from Livemocha, the site I'm using to learn Icelandic. Apparently I have been the Icelandic student of the week for 2 weeks in a row... although I think I may be the only one learning it right now... Don't ask me how to say "I am lost" because I haven't learned it yet but I can say "I am going to be climbing a ladder"... :)
It appears I have made a bit of a mental shift with respect to work. I find myself enjoying it more. Not being overly busy has its advantages. I may not be making more money than last year at this time but I don't feel as beat up afterwards either and that is worth something to me.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
MiddleWay
A classmate of mine recently paid their last student loan payment. Because I haven't thought of the concept of a student loan for so long now, over 10 years, the news stunned me. I recovered quick and congratulated them on a great job.
This news hit home as we were in the same class and have both been out in the work force for over 10 years. It was the sheer length of time that blew me away. I have a very hard time with the concept of a monthly payment for that long. Especially when added to other common monthly payments such as a car, a house, utilities, savings, etc.
It isn't that I didn't have students loans. I did. Probably not as much as they do but enough to take 10 years should I have allowed it. In Canada, back in my student time, banks amortized loans for 10 years. I understand that 15 year terms are available now. When I found out that my monthly payments were going to be $900 a month for 10 years, I freaked out and pushed myself to get it paid off in 1 1/2 years.
Even then, I could not stand monthly payments. I also have never amortized a house for longer than 9 years. And I find myself feeling very impatient for the next 3 years or so of mortgage payments to be over even though technically they are D's payments and not mine. I'm just putting in extra because I cannot stand to see it.
Gail Vax-Oxlade's post earlier in the week gave 2 quotes I copied into my day timer to remind myself that I need not have to rush so. Rushing things in the past and present have contributed to my stress levels and burn out. It isn't something I would honestly recommend. I'm afraid I must have some version of a obsessive compulsive disorder -- Some force that propels me to extreme, sometimes self defeating measures.
Whatever it is, it's not easy to change and I have worked very hard to dig it out of myself over the years, once I realized that most people do not approach debt like I do and perhaps are happier for it. I'm very glad D is as laid back as he is because it helps me to swing back towards the middle of the road. It is no accident I call myself Middle Way as a reminder of where I would like to be on things like this.
This news hit home as we were in the same class and have both been out in the work force for over 10 years. It was the sheer length of time that blew me away. I have a very hard time with the concept of a monthly payment for that long. Especially when added to other common monthly payments such as a car, a house, utilities, savings, etc.
It isn't that I didn't have students loans. I did. Probably not as much as they do but enough to take 10 years should I have allowed it. In Canada, back in my student time, banks amortized loans for 10 years. I understand that 15 year terms are available now. When I found out that my monthly payments were going to be $900 a month for 10 years, I freaked out and pushed myself to get it paid off in 1 1/2 years.
Even then, I could not stand monthly payments. I also have never amortized a house for longer than 9 years. And I find myself feeling very impatient for the next 3 years or so of mortgage payments to be over even though technically they are D's payments and not mine. I'm just putting in extra because I cannot stand to see it.
Gail Vax-Oxlade's post earlier in the week gave 2 quotes I copied into my day timer to remind myself that I need not have to rush so. Rushing things in the past and present have contributed to my stress levels and burn out. It isn't something I would honestly recommend. I'm afraid I must have some version of a obsessive compulsive disorder -- Some force that propels me to extreme, sometimes self defeating measures.
Whatever it is, it's not easy to change and I have worked very hard to dig it out of myself over the years, once I realized that most people do not approach debt like I do and perhaps are happier for it. I'm very glad D is as laid back as he is because it helps me to swing back towards the middle of the road. It is no accident I call myself Middle Way as a reminder of where I would like to be on things like this.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Liquidity
I have not been great at succeeding in making stock (veg, chicken, beef) of any sort yet. I end up buying the canned stuff and it adds up.
Recently, D talked me into using the powdered variety and it has worked pretty well. Our costs dropped by over 50% and it tastes mostly the same even though it is from the same company -- Knorr.
I received a couple of compliments from one of my friends the other day. When I told them that I track the Bank of Canada rate like a hawk, they exclaimed "If you are worried about mortgage rates going up, then 99.9% of Canadians are going to lose their homes!".
Later in the week, they asked who we use for car insurance and when they called to get a quote, they couldn't believe how much lower it was. They told me that they will just turn over all their finances for me to handle.
For the record the person saying this is very responsible financially and far far ahead than most their age. They will be mortgage debt free in 3 years and are only in their very early 30's. They do not need any financial help. I find their determination inspiring.
D is considering moving some of his non registered money into registered, like what I did in the fall. What that will mean is it will be considered an RSP contribution and he will get a tax refund in the mid $1000.
Most financial planners will have you reinvest your refund or use it to pay down debt etc. What does D want to do with it? He wants to come on the next trip with me.
We had to sit down and calculate just how much we have in non reg. assets and if we are comfortable with that number. Once monies are shifted in RSPs, it is not supposed to moved or used until we are retired as there are fees for withdrawal etc. My earlier move and this potential move affects our liquidity.
Recently, D talked me into using the powdered variety and it has worked pretty well. Our costs dropped by over 50% and it tastes mostly the same even though it is from the same company -- Knorr.
I received a couple of compliments from one of my friends the other day. When I told them that I track the Bank of Canada rate like a hawk, they exclaimed "If you are worried about mortgage rates going up, then 99.9% of Canadians are going to lose their homes!".
Later in the week, they asked who we use for car insurance and when they called to get a quote, they couldn't believe how much lower it was. They told me that they will just turn over all their finances for me to handle.
For the record the person saying this is very responsible financially and far far ahead than most their age. They will be mortgage debt free in 3 years and are only in their very early 30's. They do not need any financial help. I find their determination inspiring.
D is considering moving some of his non registered money into registered, like what I did in the fall. What that will mean is it will be considered an RSP contribution and he will get a tax refund in the mid $1000.
Most financial planners will have you reinvest your refund or use it to pay down debt etc. What does D want to do with it? He wants to come on the next trip with me.
We had to sit down and calculate just how much we have in non reg. assets and if we are comfortable with that number. Once monies are shifted in RSPs, it is not supposed to moved or used until we are retired as there are fees for withdrawal etc. My earlier move and this potential move affects our liquidity.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Complacent
Our Costco membership expired at the end of Nov/09. From a reader tip, we bought a cash card that will allow us to shop there without a membership. We have not used our card yet. Surprisingly, we have been getting good deals from our local grocers and have not really missed Costco.
In fact, we have found that some items we had been buying (ie. brown sugar) are more expensive than our local bulk food store. It's too soon to tell if we will not bother ever renewing our membership.
There are a couple of people I know who are entertaining the thought of working in Europe. Funny enough, after hearing their stories, I stumbled on an ad for a position I would be suitable for overseas. D is encouraging me to look into it. After all, we aren't tied down here.
I don't have any real details but my guess would be they are looking for someone to run the whole division and the hours of work per week would be like I was starting at the beginning again. So would a new location, higher pay (with higher cost of living) and new challenge outweigh the amount of work I would like to do at this point of my career?
I would love to live in Europe and we have sufficient assets to be able to buy a place to live if it turns out to be a permanent thing. It's neat to mentally consider the ins and outs of it. I'm not sure though if I will pursue this any further. Some days I'm itching to start new elsewhere. Some days I like my routine. I just hope I'm not getting complacent.
In fact, we have found that some items we had been buying (ie. brown sugar) are more expensive than our local bulk food store. It's too soon to tell if we will not bother ever renewing our membership.
There are a couple of people I know who are entertaining the thought of working in Europe. Funny enough, after hearing their stories, I stumbled on an ad for a position I would be suitable for overseas. D is encouraging me to look into it. After all, we aren't tied down here.
I don't have any real details but my guess would be they are looking for someone to run the whole division and the hours of work per week would be like I was starting at the beginning again. So would a new location, higher pay (with higher cost of living) and new challenge outweigh the amount of work I would like to do at this point of my career?
I would love to live in Europe and we have sufficient assets to be able to buy a place to live if it turns out to be a permanent thing. It's neat to mentally consider the ins and outs of it. I'm not sure though if I will pursue this any further. Some days I'm itching to start new elsewhere. Some days I like my routine. I just hope I'm not getting complacent.
Friday, January 29, 2010
A Sweet Life
D and I have both known how it feels to live on or very close to the financial edge. We grew up in relatively poor conditions and D has had some tough times as a young adult. I've been quite blessed that since I graduated, everything has looked up.
As my work week and work hours have slowly dropped over the last 6 years, I find myself suddenly feeling like I'm too close to the this invisible "edge" where in reality has more to do with what I've been used to rather than the real edge where I am virtually unable to make payments.
I have talked with a few people lately who have been unable to get necessary health care, make ends meet at home or are fighting to prevent their car from being repossessed. All of them shared a common trait. They were all surprised that this was happening.
What?! How could it have been a surprise when nothing major ie. death, divorce, disease has happened?
I like to operate my life with a certain margin of safety. I don't assume things will stay the same. I don't even assume there will always be 2 incomes. Even if your current life is the perfect fairy tale, I believe it is still smart to plan for the days/months/years where life isn't as sweet for one reason or another.
As my work week and work hours have slowly dropped over the last 6 years, I find myself suddenly feeling like I'm too close to the this invisible "edge" where in reality has more to do with what I've been used to rather than the real edge where I am virtually unable to make payments.
I have talked with a few people lately who have been unable to get necessary health care, make ends meet at home or are fighting to prevent their car from being repossessed. All of them shared a common trait. They were all surprised that this was happening.
What?! How could it have been a surprise when nothing major ie. death, divorce, disease has happened?
I like to operate my life with a certain margin of safety. I don't assume things will stay the same. I don't even assume there will always be 2 incomes. Even if your current life is the perfect fairy tale, I believe it is still smart to plan for the days/months/years where life isn't as sweet for one reason or another.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Other Peoples' Money
D and I know someone who recently declared that they felt retirement savings and emergency funds are a waste of time and effort. They plan to circumvent the need for that by putting all their resources into income generating real estate. That will be their extra cash flow as well as what will fund them for the rest of their life.
As we are live pretty much the exact opposite of this person's ideal, their comment made me stop and wonder if I could do that and if holding a bunch of non income generating real estate was a bad idea after all. Maybe that was their way of bringing that to our attention. After all, why pay for something yourself when you can get someone else to do it for you?
Assuming that what people say is a product of where and what they've been through, I can say that this person's views have largely been shaped by their financial situation. They do not have any savings and owe at least $300000. So I can understand that the idea of savings may be so far away, it may not seem possible in this lifetime.
They are also in their late 30's. Two thirds of the debt is a mortgage and the property is a duplex that is income generating. Their plan is to keep buying more to the point where basic living expenses are covered.
What is difficult for me personally is the sheer timeline of it all. I think it would be neat to have some other people pay for my yearly living expenses but I do not believe I could handle how long it would take to accumulate a decent amount of money in the bank.
I can understanding the ego boost one can get from owning a bunch of real estate and having it paid for by people who are "working for you". Unfortunately I only seem to be able to see it from the "how little equity there is for a very long time" point of view.
I forget that savings isn't what they would like to have. They do not wish to bother with it. They live for today and am enjoying life to the fullest. What a different way of thinking. Living this way assumes a few things. That they will be able to get continued funding from the bank. That their job is stable and they will want to do it for long time. That they will continue to have tenants and be willing to manage all of their needs.
Even thinking of this scenario has challenged my requirement for financial security. I would like to get to a point where I do not need to worry about banks, mortgage rates or income. It is important to me to own real estate or other stuff outright. I also get a kick out of doing it with my own 2 hands. It gives me a real sense of accomplishment. That's probably both a control thing and a result of my upbringing.
As we are live pretty much the exact opposite of this person's ideal, their comment made me stop and wonder if I could do that and if holding a bunch of non income generating real estate was a bad idea after all. Maybe that was their way of bringing that to our attention. After all, why pay for something yourself when you can get someone else to do it for you?
Assuming that what people say is a product of where and what they've been through, I can say that this person's views have largely been shaped by their financial situation. They do not have any savings and owe at least $300000. So I can understand that the idea of savings may be so far away, it may not seem possible in this lifetime.
They are also in their late 30's. Two thirds of the debt is a mortgage and the property is a duplex that is income generating. Their plan is to keep buying more to the point where basic living expenses are covered.
What is difficult for me personally is the sheer timeline of it all. I think it would be neat to have some other people pay for my yearly living expenses but I do not believe I could handle how long it would take to accumulate a decent amount of money in the bank.
I can understanding the ego boost one can get from owning a bunch of real estate and having it paid for by people who are "working for you". Unfortunately I only seem to be able to see it from the "how little equity there is for a very long time" point of view.
I forget that savings isn't what they would like to have. They do not wish to bother with it. They live for today and am enjoying life to the fullest. What a different way of thinking. Living this way assumes a few things. That they will be able to get continued funding from the bank. That their job is stable and they will want to do it for long time. That they will continue to have tenants and be willing to manage all of their needs.
Even thinking of this scenario has challenged my requirement for financial security. I would like to get to a point where I do not need to worry about banks, mortgage rates or income. It is important to me to own real estate or other stuff outright. I also get a kick out of doing it with my own 2 hands. It gives me a real sense of accomplishment. That's probably both a control thing and a result of my upbringing.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Free Money
Great news. I found out the store I bought my laptop and laptop bag from has a promotion where you get 25% off the laptop bag if you buy a laptop as well. I wanted to know if I am eligible for the discount as it was announced with 2 weeks of my purchase.
So 3 phone calls and lots of time on hold, I found that I was. All I have to do is bring my receipt in and they will credit me the difference back onto my Visa. Fabulous. We went after work last night. The amount I got back was $ 15.54.
Not an earth shaking amount but I was perfectly willing to take it. I asked D if he thought I was being cheap and he thought that not getting the money would be silly when it didn't take much effort.
That brought back memories of my behaviour when we were in Las Vegas years ago. I am not a gambler. Because of that, I would freak out in joy if I were to get $5 in quarter slots and if I were to have ended the trip with the $20 I started with at the casino, I would be one happy girl. Nope, I'm not at all big time when it comes to gambling.
I've always thought that lotteries ought to split up the prize money to more manageable amounts (like $250000) and have many winners instead of one person winning 28 million. They would be able to change many peoples' lives without going over the top. I know I'd be pretty pleased if I won $250000 right now.
I would pay off the mortgage, put the remaining $100000 in retirement funds, cut back on work and start spending some of my pay to dust off a few ambitions.
Once in a blue moon, I would buy one of those scratch and win tickets with some extra change. I like the instant gratification of it. The one I tend to chose is where you could win $1000 or $2000 a week for life. Personally I think this is the perfect type of win for me. Not too much but enough to retire on.
So 3 phone calls and lots of time on hold, I found that I was. All I have to do is bring my receipt in and they will credit me the difference back onto my Visa. Fabulous. We went after work last night. The amount I got back was $ 15.54.
Not an earth shaking amount but I was perfectly willing to take it. I asked D if he thought I was being cheap and he thought that not getting the money would be silly when it didn't take much effort.
That brought back memories of my behaviour when we were in Las Vegas years ago. I am not a gambler. Because of that, I would freak out in joy if I were to get $5 in quarter slots and if I were to have ended the trip with the $20 I started with at the casino, I would be one happy girl. Nope, I'm not at all big time when it comes to gambling.
I've always thought that lotteries ought to split up the prize money to more manageable amounts (like $250000) and have many winners instead of one person winning 28 million. They would be able to change many peoples' lives without going over the top. I know I'd be pretty pleased if I won $250000 right now.
I would pay off the mortgage, put the remaining $100000 in retirement funds, cut back on work and start spending some of my pay to dust off a few ambitions.
Once in a blue moon, I would buy one of those scratch and win tickets with some extra change. I like the instant gratification of it. The one I tend to chose is where you could win $1000 or $2000 a week for life. Personally I think this is the perfect type of win for me. Not too much but enough to retire on.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Cell Phone Mistake
I did it this time. Yesterday, D was checking when his cell phone service expires and I decided to check mine as well. It turns out I missed my payment and my number has been disconnected.
So I got on the phone and 3 numbers and 2 people and 1 hr later, I get an answer.
Yes, your number has been cancelled and you will have to pay a $50 reconnection fee and there is no guarantee that my old number will still be available. OK.
The fellow I spoke with gave me another option. He said that I could get a new phone for $75 which would include a time card valued at $50. Interesting. He also went on to say that because my phone is 6 years old, the battery is probably not charging well anymore etc. etc.
Well, my phone is still fully charged since August '09 and I really like my phone. The thought of having yet another phone doesn't make sense to me as I do not even recall the last time I actually used my cell phone. It is there for car emergencies and is never turned on.
I have a pay as you go service which means I buy time cards -- usually the cheapest one -- 30 mins for $15 with a 1 month expiry date. I have 120 days after the time card expires before they cancel my number. So, what I've been doing for the last 6 yrs is putting in time cards around the 120 day mark.
That was supposed to have been last Friday.
So now I get to re-evaluate the whole cell phone idea in my mind. Because I don't drive often now, it may not be as big an issue to just go without. D still has his phone and we have a world phone (for travelling, whose time never expires) that I'm sure can be used in an emergency.
I think I'm covered.
So I got on the phone and 3 numbers and 2 people and 1 hr later, I get an answer.
Yes, your number has been cancelled and you will have to pay a $50 reconnection fee and there is no guarantee that my old number will still be available. OK.
The fellow I spoke with gave me another option. He said that I could get a new phone for $75 which would include a time card valued at $50. Interesting. He also went on to say that because my phone is 6 years old, the battery is probably not charging well anymore etc. etc.
Well, my phone is still fully charged since August '09 and I really like my phone. The thought of having yet another phone doesn't make sense to me as I do not even recall the last time I actually used my cell phone. It is there for car emergencies and is never turned on.
I have a pay as you go service which means I buy time cards -- usually the cheapest one -- 30 mins for $15 with a 1 month expiry date. I have 120 days after the time card expires before they cancel my number. So, what I've been doing for the last 6 yrs is putting in time cards around the 120 day mark.
That was supposed to have been last Friday.
So now I get to re-evaluate the whole cell phone idea in my mind. Because I don't drive often now, it may not be as big an issue to just go without. D still has his phone and we have a world phone (for travelling, whose time never expires) that I'm sure can be used in an emergency.
I think I'm covered.
Monday, January 25, 2010
New Pants
Recently I found out that our local library has a slew of travel DVDs, of the Globe Trekker and Rick Steves variety. I remember growing up with them. We took a bunch out and spent a few hours being armchair travellers.
I would highly recommend these programs. Even if you have zero desire to ever darken the doorstep of a particular country, you will have learned some history, seen some cool landscapes and heard a different language or two.
On my list of things to do today is some sewing -- not the make your own clothing type but the shorten the hem of my newly acquired pants type. I would love to go to at stitch it place and have someone do it for me but I'm too cheap to pay for it and therefore suffer the consequences of a bad job.
Seriously, I've been hemming pants for decades. It is one of the first skills my mother taught me. Saves a few bucks and most times, I find the activity therapeutic. Plus it gets me off the computer as I've been overdoing it on the travel planning front. The bonus -- I get to finally wear my new pants!
I would highly recommend these programs. Even if you have zero desire to ever darken the doorstep of a particular country, you will have learned some history, seen some cool landscapes and heard a different language or two.
On my list of things to do today is some sewing -- not the make your own clothing type but the shorten the hem of my newly acquired pants type. I would love to go to at stitch it place and have someone do it for me but I'm too cheap to pay for it and therefore suffer the consequences of a bad job.
Seriously, I've been hemming pants for decades. It is one of the first skills my mother taught me. Saves a few bucks and most times, I find the activity therapeutic. Plus it gets me off the computer as I've been overdoing it on the travel planning front. The bonus -- I get to finally wear my new pants!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Laugh At Me
D has had a couple of good laughs at my expense this morning already. I'm taking a break from my Icelandic training to do some other travel research and came up with some new to me destinations that sounded interesting.
I have never been to Washington DC. And for some reason, I never did mentally place The Smithsonian, The National Cherry Blossom Festival and The White House all in the same place. That was why D thought I was being deliberately ridiculously funny.
For those who are in the market, you can currently see an exhibition of Terra Cotta warriors at the National Geographic Museum (they are amazing to behold!), a Turner to Cezanne exhibition at the Corcoran Gallery and the Auto Show.
The second locale was Manchester England. Like most of my travel leads, this too started from a seat sale. The only thing I know about Manchester is their football team Manchester United because we have some English friends who are big fans.
What made D laugh this time was my declaration that if I were to go, I'm going to try and get tickets to see a match -- made sense to me. I like taking in the local sites and sounds. He asked me if I knew how hard it would be to get a ticket? I said, no -- but how hard could it be?
After all, I've gotten a semi final ticket to the men's match on center court at Wimbledon and have been to see tennis matches at the French and US Open, I know how those ballots work. And, really, it is just a local soccer match, right? More laughing.
He said that is like saying The Louvre is just the local art gallery in Paris. OK, point taken.
I have never been to Washington DC. And for some reason, I never did mentally place The Smithsonian, The National Cherry Blossom Festival and The White House all in the same place. That was why D thought I was being deliberately ridiculously funny.
For those who are in the market, you can currently see an exhibition of Terra Cotta warriors at the National Geographic Museum (they are amazing to behold!), a Turner to Cezanne exhibition at the Corcoran Gallery and the Auto Show.
The second locale was Manchester England. Like most of my travel leads, this too started from a seat sale. The only thing I know about Manchester is their football team Manchester United because we have some English friends who are big fans.
What made D laugh this time was my declaration that if I were to go, I'm going to try and get tickets to see a match -- made sense to me. I like taking in the local sites and sounds. He asked me if I knew how hard it would be to get a ticket? I said, no -- but how hard could it be?
After all, I've gotten a semi final ticket to the men's match on center court at Wimbledon and have been to see tennis matches at the French and US Open, I know how those ballots work. And, really, it is just a local soccer match, right? More laughing.
He said that is like saying The Louvre is just the local art gallery in Paris. OK, point taken.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Food and Supplements
D and I have come up with a couple of new frugal initiatives this year -- relating to food stuffs. He was decided to drink less expensive coffee. That is a big one for him as he has been a bit of a stickler. He will be saving the "expensive" stuff ($17 a pound) for special occasions.
For me, it is less expensive chocolate. I would spend $8 for 1/2 pound and I have found just eating dark chocolate bars or chips to be good enough that I don't miss the other.
The other category that we are considering is vitamins. We take a number of different kinds and I'm going to seriously look at cheaper over the counter substitutes and see if it is worth making the change or make the change and see if I notice a difference. This costs $500/yr right now for supplements that are ordered through a health professional.
For me, it is less expensive chocolate. I would spend $8 for 1/2 pound and I have found just eating dark chocolate bars or chips to be good enough that I don't miss the other.
The other category that we are considering is vitamins. We take a number of different kinds and I'm going to seriously look at cheaper over the counter substitutes and see if it is worth making the change or make the change and see if I notice a difference. This costs $500/yr right now for supplements that are ordered through a health professional.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Friday!
Well, I cannot believe it. Guess what I got handed to me yesterday? A thank you note with a gift certificate and an apology for the late delivery!
So, they didn't exclude anyone after all. Am I surprised? Absolutely. Am I relieved? Somewhat as it makes the institution less cut throat in my eyes. The note means more to me than the gift. I'm sending a thank you note back today.
We are planning something fun tonight. After work and dinner (maybe out), I'm returning the one laptop bag that is too big (not the fun part) and then going to look at more up to date travel books. The one I'm reading is 3 years old so I want to see if enough has changed to warrant getting a new one.
Yes, I find bookstores fun. A large part because I rarely buy books anymore but I love them. (I'm not sure I'll jump on the whole digital readers as you would have to still buy books...) I'll likely get a hot chocolate too afterwards.
Have a great Friday everyone!
So, they didn't exclude anyone after all. Am I surprised? Absolutely. Am I relieved? Somewhat as it makes the institution less cut throat in my eyes. The note means more to me than the gift. I'm sending a thank you note back today.
We are planning something fun tonight. After work and dinner (maybe out), I'm returning the one laptop bag that is too big (not the fun part) and then going to look at more up to date travel books. The one I'm reading is 3 years old so I want to see if enough has changed to warrant getting a new one.
Yes, I find bookstores fun. A large part because I rarely buy books anymore but I love them. (I'm not sure I'll jump on the whole digital readers as you would have to still buy books...) I'll likely get a hot chocolate too afterwards.
Have a great Friday everyone!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Interesting Stuff
I jumped the gun the the whole tax submission thing yesterday. I forgot all about those year end statements from the brokerage firms and investment companies that I will need to submit. Whoops!
So in reality, I won't have all the paperwork until early March and what I owe may change depending on capital gains and dividend income.
Our mortgage payment days and my pay are off kilter until May -- just the way the calendar falls. It rights itself once we get our first 3 payment month out of the way.
I played around with the amortization calendar yesterday and we will have around a $30000 balance after our mortgage term expires on the main house. The ski condo will be done by the time its mortgage term expires 8 months later so it is on autopilot.
Other than that, we are pretty much on autopilot with work as well. I did find some cool life stuff though -- such as a great surfing instructor in San Juan Puerto Rico and a great diving package in Santorini Greece.
Some things to file away for another day. Gotta keep things interesting! I'm not great enough in anything to be whisked away to do cool things in cool places like Sue here, so I will just have to dream up stuff on my own!
So in reality, I won't have all the paperwork until early March and what I owe may change depending on capital gains and dividend income.
Our mortgage payment days and my pay are off kilter until May -- just the way the calendar falls. It rights itself once we get our first 3 payment month out of the way.
I played around with the amortization calendar yesterday and we will have around a $30000 balance after our mortgage term expires on the main house. The ski condo will be done by the time its mortgage term expires 8 months later so it is on autopilot.
Other than that, we are pretty much on autopilot with work as well. I did find some cool life stuff though -- such as a great surfing instructor in San Juan Puerto Rico and a great diving package in Santorini Greece.
Some things to file away for another day. Gotta keep things interesting! I'm not great enough in anything to be whisked away to do cool things in cool places like Sue here, so I will just have to dream up stuff on my own!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Taxes 2009
I found out this morning that my online tax program I use was up and running for the 2009 tax year. You cannot file until mid Feb but am able to input all numbers and get a result.
I had been using last year's template to get a rough idea and it turns out this year's template makes a difference of $22 on what I will owe -- less as our basic personal exemption has increased.
So I can officially say my taxes are "done" and I will be filing them online as soon as I am allowed. I owe around $800.
On a neat note, I received an email from another member of livemocha asking if I would look over an assignment for him. He is from Brazil and is learning english. This is a way you can help each other out and give back as the courses are free.
Craziest word yet? Try this -- Voruflutningabillinn -- which means tractor trailer in 7 syllables. I thought for about 2 mins yesterday I was pronouncing it correctly. Today? Lost it! I hope I will not need to use this word, especially not in the context of being hit by one!
I had been using last year's template to get a rough idea and it turns out this year's template makes a difference of $22 on what I will owe -- less as our basic personal exemption has increased.
So I can officially say my taxes are "done" and I will be filing them online as soon as I am allowed. I owe around $800.
On a neat note, I received an email from another member of livemocha asking if I would look over an assignment for him. He is from Brazil and is learning english. This is a way you can help each other out and give back as the courses are free.
Craziest word yet? Try this -- Voruflutningabillinn -- which means tractor trailer in 7 syllables. I thought for about 2 mins yesterday I was pronouncing it correctly. Today? Lost it! I hope I will not need to use this word, especially not in the context of being hit by one!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Getting With It
There was no change in the first Bank of Canada rate announcement just a few minutes ago. That's good news to us and our mortgage. I do not believe we will escape is rising before our term is over but it is nice to have it hold as long as we can get it.
It turns out it wasn't my over thinking and overdoing it on the weekend that led to my headache. It was a virus and I was actually coming down with a head cold. I'm better today but feeling weak so going to take it easy.
We found another laptop bag and bought it to compare with the one I had originally purchased when I got my computer. This new one is larger and is frankly too large. I am going to stick with the one I've got even though it is a bit too small.
If someone told me even 5 years ago, that I would be travelling with thousands of dollars worth of electronics as a "normal", I would have thought they were crazy. Now I will be travelling with a laptop, noise cancelling headphones, chargers, plug converters, Bluetooth earpiece, ipod, world phone and camera.
By the way, I love love love my new Bluetooth headset. It is so easy to use even for the cheapest unit. We paid $24 for ours. I would like to say "why have I waited so long?" but in reality, it wouldn't have worked with my other laptop because the technology didn't exist then and we didn't have a need for it from a cell phone perspective. I still think they look silly but I don't plan to be walking around in public with it.
It turns out it wasn't my over thinking and overdoing it on the weekend that led to my headache. It was a virus and I was actually coming down with a head cold. I'm better today but feeling weak so going to take it easy.
We found another laptop bag and bought it to compare with the one I had originally purchased when I got my computer. This new one is larger and is frankly too large. I am going to stick with the one I've got even though it is a bit too small.
If someone told me even 5 years ago, that I would be travelling with thousands of dollars worth of electronics as a "normal", I would have thought they were crazy. Now I will be travelling with a laptop, noise cancelling headphones, chargers, plug converters, Bluetooth earpiece, ipod, world phone and camera.
By the way, I love love love my new Bluetooth headset. It is so easy to use even for the cheapest unit. We paid $24 for ours. I would like to say "why have I waited so long?" but in reality, it wouldn't have worked with my other laptop because the technology didn't exist then and we didn't have a need for it from a cell phone perspective. I still think they look silly but I don't plan to be walking around in public with it.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Finance Stuff
We broke down yesterday and dipped into our fun money to buy eggs, bread and other staples as we had run out. The next installment of grocery money won't be coming until Friday. Thank goodness for fun money! Now we'll know, if we continue to ship once every 2 weeks, we'll need more staples.
I have a nasty habit of thinking too far as well as too detailed in advance. If I really go at it, like I had this weekend, it will often give me a headache -- something I don't need. I'm going to make myself back away from too much travel planning and too much spreadsheet work. I remind myself it is all within my control! Why suffer needlessly?
One of the financial initiatives I am trying out this year is the concept of paying everything off in real time rather than going with the statement date of the Visa company. I find it simpler. It is also easier to keep everything belonging to that month in that month spreadsheet wise. I still get the benefits of travel miles without the waiting until the statement comes out to reconcile the account.
If possible, I would also like to have my non tax savings ready by the end of this year for the next year vs. saving during the year it is meant for. I am negotiable on this. Deep down, it is likely better I do this so that I am not tempted to spend it on another fabulous trip!
I have a nasty habit of thinking too far as well as too detailed in advance. If I really go at it, like I had this weekend, it will often give me a headache -- something I don't need. I'm going to make myself back away from too much travel planning and too much spreadsheet work. I remind myself it is all within my control! Why suffer needlessly?
One of the financial initiatives I am trying out this year is the concept of paying everything off in real time rather than going with the statement date of the Visa company. I find it simpler. It is also easier to keep everything belonging to that month in that month spreadsheet wise. I still get the benefits of travel miles without the waiting until the statement comes out to reconcile the account.
If possible, I would also like to have my non tax savings ready by the end of this year for the next year vs. saving during the year it is meant for. I am negotiable on this. Deep down, it is likely better I do this so that I am not tempted to spend it on another fabulous trip!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Breathing Room
Finished my first Icelandic lesson on Livemocha, a great tip courtesy of a reader -- Thanks again! I have my work cut out for me... I'll have just enough time to get through the beginner course before my trip.
D baked dark chocolate pecan and mint chocolate chip cookies yesterday and the house smelled wonderful.
I have been playing around with my spreadsheet again in hopes of simplifying things. Instead to taking the approach of hording every dollar, I went about it from the other way -- from the what is the absolute minimum I need and lets save that first.
What I was left with was the leftover monies. Much simpler to know that vs. putting everything into an account and drawing from it not really knowing if the account will hold enough.
This year I won't need to be saving for my working accounts. I ended 2009 with that done so there isn't really any ambitious savings goals for 2010 and I've found my spreadsheet a bit chaotic without direction.
I haven't decided if I will allocate anything towards retirement. My 2010 tax free account has been maxed out already. In my master retirement spreadsheet, I have essentially written off the next few years for large savings because of the amount I'm putting aside for extra mortgage prepayments.
In the end, I feel it will depend on how my business does this year. If D's extra work is steady, then we will discuss options. Right now, a bit of breathing room is nice.
D baked dark chocolate pecan and mint chocolate chip cookies yesterday and the house smelled wonderful.
I have been playing around with my spreadsheet again in hopes of simplifying things. Instead to taking the approach of hording every dollar, I went about it from the other way -- from the what is the absolute minimum I need and lets save that first.
What I was left with was the leftover monies. Much simpler to know that vs. putting everything into an account and drawing from it not really knowing if the account will hold enough.
This year I won't need to be saving for my working accounts. I ended 2009 with that done so there isn't really any ambitious savings goals for 2010 and I've found my spreadsheet a bit chaotic without direction.
I haven't decided if I will allocate anything towards retirement. My 2010 tax free account has been maxed out already. In my master retirement spreadsheet, I have essentially written off the next few years for large savings because of the amount I'm putting aside for extra mortgage prepayments.
In the end, I feel it will depend on how my business does this year. If D's extra work is steady, then we will discuss options. Right now, a bit of breathing room is nice.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Bunch of News
A bunch of disjointed news today.
- My car passed its emissions test yesterday with flying colours!
- D got an email about some contract work starting hopefully soon. Potentially 200 hrs of it.
- I got confirmation that my associates are getting more and more cheap. Apparently only people who were working right up to Christmas got a gift certificate ($50) and a thank you letter. Those of us who were away early or didn't work that day, got nothing. This is the first year in 12 that I have not gotten a card or anything. And it was another staff member who handed it out -- not the owners. I am glad I did not have high expectations of them.
- I've decided to do my best to see as many new places I can during my time off this year. Enough lazing around!
- My new computer battery is averaging 4hrs on each charge. Not the 6hrs I was looking for but I have a sneaking suspicion it will require some power setting changes I am not willing to make. I like having a brightly lit screen.
- D likes not having to shop for groceries weekly. I still went about my flyer reading just to see if there is any phenomenal deals out there anyway.
- The new laptop bag I got is much smaller and I am still trying to fit everything I would like in it as it is also substituting for my purse.
- D amused me with a story of someone he works with who is up to their armpits in debt but is currently trying to figure out how to afford a $14000 watch. This story helped to shake me out of my tough day at work and made me just howl with laughter.
- I cannot believe I am even considering this but we are going to learn more about Bluetooth technology this weekend as a substitute for my clunky headset I currently use to make calls on Skype.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Car & Work
Yesterday afternoon, I felt the urge to reduce my work load and thought my time off was not enough. It didn't take long for that place to start getting to me again. It's a shame a place meant for helping people get healthy can be so unhealthy for its workers.
I know enough nurses to know that they don't have it easy in a hospital setting either. In many ways, much worst than I. I think I am just too idealist some days. I will continue to plod along. Two years eight months til the end of our main house mortgage term.
My car is in today to get its Drive Clean test. Every couple of years, the emission of our cars gets tested and if it spews out too much nasty stuff, you will not be allowed to renew your licence until you get it fixed.
My car's numbers have continued to be way below allowable. I'm expecting it be the case again today. And yes, the test costs money, around $35. Licencing for the year costs $74.
My book club selections have been extra great this year. I just finished "The Book of Negroes" by Lawrence Hill --Highly recommend it. Some other book stand outs are listed on my sidebar.
Today is a bit gray but we've recently had a string of bright sunny days, no wind, a few degrees below 0 Celsius -- just perfect for walking to work with sunglasses on.
This is my second winter walking and have finally caught on that leaving work socks and shoes at work is so much more convenient. That way, I can wear my really warm socks walking on those - 25 degree days.
Yes, this girl can learn -- it may take a while but eventually it does come through!
I know enough nurses to know that they don't have it easy in a hospital setting either. In many ways, much worst than I. I think I am just too idealist some days. I will continue to plod along. Two years eight months til the end of our main house mortgage term.
My car is in today to get its Drive Clean test. Every couple of years, the emission of our cars gets tested and if it spews out too much nasty stuff, you will not be allowed to renew your licence until you get it fixed.
My car's numbers have continued to be way below allowable. I'm expecting it be the case again today. And yes, the test costs money, around $35. Licencing for the year costs $74.
My book club selections have been extra great this year. I just finished "The Book of Negroes" by Lawrence Hill --Highly recommend it. Some other book stand outs are listed on my sidebar.
Today is a bit gray but we've recently had a string of bright sunny days, no wind, a few degrees below 0 Celsius -- just perfect for walking to work with sunglasses on.
This is my second winter walking and have finally caught on that leaving work socks and shoes at work is so much more convenient. That way, I can wear my really warm socks walking on those - 25 degree days.
Yes, this girl can learn -- it may take a while but eventually it does come through!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
I Bought It
I'm happily typing this on my new HP dm3. And yes, it already has a little scratch on it (self inflicted -- I was comparing the weight of it with D's and his memory stick grazed the side of mine). So now I don't have to tip toe around it and just use it.
I love the lightness, look and quietness of it. It is nice to be able to type away from my favorite room in the house again. I came home with a new bag for it and am still debating whether it will work. More comparison shopping this weekend.
It is loaded with IE 8 and Windows 7 so am getting used to it. Plus the left shift key is in a slightly different position and it takes to download mail and bookmarks. I'll know soon enough if the battery will last 6 hrs or not. Total cost -- $799.
And no, the Icelandic language book did not work. Too much in depth linguistic. I'm going to look for something online. Hearing it will make things easier.
I love the lightness, look and quietness of it. It is nice to be able to type away from my favorite room in the house again. I came home with a new bag for it and am still debating whether it will work. More comparison shopping this weekend.
It is loaded with IE 8 and Windows 7 so am getting used to it. Plus the left shift key is in a slightly different position and it takes to download mail and bookmarks. I'll know soon enough if the battery will last 6 hrs or not. Total cost -- $799.
And no, the Icelandic language book did not work. Too much in depth linguistic. I'm going to look for something online. Hearing it will make things easier.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Haiti
I have been fortunate to not yet have to deal with any massive emergency relating to housing, finances or health, unlike the people of Haiti.
When one is uprooted with barely anything reasonable for basic survival, nothing else is really that important anymore.
When one is uprooted with barely anything reasonable for basic survival, nothing else is really that important anymore.
Bonuses
My December month end is in and I start 2010 with good news. I managed to beat my projections and it will translate to an extra $220.86 take home. What we are doing with any bonus monies is splitting it 50:50 as extra pocket money. Mine gets transferred to my dream account.
It's going to be no go for a birthday trip this year. I cannot get it together in time so we are going to move to a birthday bonus instead -- probably $500 each to do with as we wish. Pretty sure on the laptop right now but cannot seem to quite pull the trigger yet. It will cost my birthday bonus plus another couple hundred dollars.
From now til I depart for Iceland, I will be learning all sorts of things like which restaurants I would like to try, where are they on the map, what walking routes would I like to do, where the supermarkets are etc. etc. Others like when I am going out hunting for the northern lights will be decided once there because it is very weather dependent.
I have been looking around for Icelandic language DVDs without any luck from our local library. However, they do have a course in book form. Not sure how that will work. I'll know soon as it will be picked up today.
The airlines have changed travel requirements to the US again and now the laptop bag I thought worked last week doesn't. Hopefully things will change again before the spring. If not, I do have a back up plan involving the case I bring to work.
It's going to be no go for a birthday trip this year. I cannot get it together in time so we are going to move to a birthday bonus instead -- probably $500 each to do with as we wish. Pretty sure on the laptop right now but cannot seem to quite pull the trigger yet. It will cost my birthday bonus plus another couple hundred dollars.
From now til I depart for Iceland, I will be learning all sorts of things like which restaurants I would like to try, where are they on the map, what walking routes would I like to do, where the supermarkets are etc. etc. Others like when I am going out hunting for the northern lights will be decided once there because it is very weather dependent.
I have been looking around for Icelandic language DVDs without any luck from our local library. However, they do have a course in book form. Not sure how that will work. I'll know soon as it will be picked up today.
The airlines have changed travel requirements to the US again and now the laptop bag I thought worked last week doesn't. Hopefully things will change again before the spring. If not, I do have a back up plan involving the case I bring to work.
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