Finances

"We do live in turbulent times. Often the future is unknown; therefore, it behooves us to prepare for uncertainties. Statistics reveal that at some time, for a variety of reasons, you may find yourself in the role of financial provider. I urge you to pursue your education and learn marketable skills so that, should such a situation arise, you are prepared to provide."  - President Thomas S. Monson

 

Two years ago our family uprooted from our home in Washington.  We had lived in that area for 15 years. This was a exciting, but very hard move for us.  At this time, we had everything in financial control......or so we thought.  Fast forward to 2 years later, we have found a way to really be in financial control.  

 

My father and mother-in-law got called on a Mormon mission to Brazil for 18 months.  This was an exciting time for our family!  We had offered a year previous to ever help out where we could if they ever wanted go and serve.  We knew that they had help Great Grandma Shirley a lot and would have a hard time leaving her. Since Brian is employed with a company that allows him to work from home, we knew this would be a possibility for us to also take this journey.  The kids were all on board (except one, kind of) and we packed up our belongings that could fit into a 26 foot UHaul, sold some of our stuff, gave away some of our stuff, and even burned some of our stuff to journey to Idaho!  This was going to be a fun experience as a family! and it has been!

 

Having no mortgage was an easy adjustment, how could it not be?  We quickly realized though with the improvements we had made to our home in Washington and a few other small debts, that we really did not have extra money and this is where that mortgage money needed to go.  What a blessing this was in our lives!  Mom and Dad Shirley, we cannot thank you enough!  Brian and I realized that we had to really work hard to pay these debts off and save so we could be in a home before our parents returned from their mission!  If you want to find out how to decrease your debt in a very effect way, please read Marvin J. Ashton's talk, "One for the Money". This can be found via LDS.org or ProvidentLiving.org. 

 

I have learned a lot about needs and wants these last couple of years.  As we packed up to move, I realized that stuff is just that-Stuff!  As long as you have the means to provide and take care of your spouse and children, that is all that matters.  As I look around my home, I am so grateful for a husband that works hard and is successful in his job that he provides so well for his family!  I am also grateful for the education I have and I am getting to also help provide.  There are many opportunities out in the world to improve your lifestyle with education-Go Make Your Dreams Come True

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