It has been an interesting year so far. A lot has happened. Since starting the No Spend Challenge on January 1st, we have reached some major financial goals. I can’t really say how it has happened because it has very little to do with us. We are aren’t saving massive amounts of money each month, nor did we get a large inheritance from a long lost uncle. Still, I am amazed at the financial doors that have opened in just over four months.

First, we bought some land. Buying land, at least 10 acres, that is fully paid for has been one of my hopes for several years. Last year I made it an official goal and we started putting money aside for it. In February I found a property that my requirements. It is 10.58 acres, centrally located, and a great price. With a little financial rearranging, we figured out how to pay cash for it too. We closed on the land in March.

Second, I paid off my student loans for my masters degree. My goal was to pay off my loans within a year. Depending on when you count from, I was a little over or a little under the 12-month mark. Anyway, the final payment was made in March, so my graduate education is now paid off.

Third, we were able to make a dent in one of our mortgages (we own two houses). This will allow us to get out from under a financial burden that has been weighing on us for years. It doesn’t free up any money yet, in fact, we’re allocating more toward this debt, but it sparks a light at the end of the tunnel.

Fourth, our income increased. We now have a little more each month to save for a vacation or a missions trip. This is very exciting to us and every little bit helps get us closer to our goals. We are planning for next year!

Finally, this month (May) we implemented a plan to pay off our mortgage on the house we live in over the next 10 years. Making that first extra payment felt like a major achievement to me. I know it is only a first step, but it is a landmark moment toward a long-term goal. I don’t know if we will make the 10-year mark. To be honest, it is a pretty aggressive goal. But I decided that I would rather try and fail than not try at all. So here goes nothing!!

I am truly amazed at all the financial opportunities that have come our way in such a short time. These are steps I did not foresee, but I am thankful we were ready to jump in when each opportunity presented itself.

~ Alyse