Fiscal Friday: Financial Updates!

For this month's fiscal responsibility post, I didn't have a particular topic in mind. But I do have some random financial updates that I wanted to share.

(1) My last credit card was paid off! I had this old BoA card that had debt from silly things like concert tickets, hotels, clothes that i have since donated, etc etc. It was a reminder of mindless and irresponsible spending. I had planned for it to be done by May, but knocking it out early is a bonus!

(2) Taxes. Oh taxes. We did not put good plans in place to handle our changes in our financial situation (new jobs etc). So what did that mean? A big fat amount to pay. Oy.

(3) To help not repeat #2 in 2014, I upped my retirement contributions. Nothing makes you feel like an adult that putting money away from retirement.

Any financial news in your world? Join in the conversation on Twitter with the hashtag #fiscalresponsibility. Also be sure to visit Christina and Katie's blogs!

My 36th year

Tomorrow is my 36th birthday. Typically, I have not had "emotional reactions" when hitting each birthday. However, I've really been reflecting on this particular age.

I'm closer to 40 than 30.

I don't know if I'm scared or happy or anxious. But I do know I feel different.

At work, we talk about focusing only on the value-add activities.

I feel that 36 will be the year to apply that to real life.

So, let's see what you've got 36!

You get what you give

I had a busy weekend as it was our Junior League's Whale of a Sale weekend! While in line for food at the preview party, I was chatting with a fellow provisional and a prospective member/her friend. Her friend asked us how we liked Junior League. Both of us really enjoy it. But my fellow provisional nailed it on the head when she said "You get what you put into it."

As a provisional, we have certain requirements as it pertains to meetings, classes, donation quota, and dues. Technically we aren't required to participate in the community volunteer activities. However, the big reason I joined was to volunteer. In my previous job, I had lots of opportunities for community volunteer events. When I left, I didn't realize I would miss that so much.

I participated in a couple of volunteer events over the past few months. One was at a facility for foster children. The other was at the Symphony, helping introduce children to musical instruments. I really feel those opportunities have been the best for connecting with other League members. Aside from the great feeling volunteering brings, the social interaction is an added bonus. 

Volunteering at our Whale sale was also a lot of fun! I paired up with an awesome Active member and we rocked out the credit card line. Again, it was fun to help and interact with great people. 

So, I knew I had been enjoying Junior League. But this weekend really sealed it for me!