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If you are new around these parts, the Mister and I took the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University course through our church last year. We have a goal to pay off half of our consumer debt this year. You can catch up on our journey by checking out our previous recaps:

• December 2016 update
• November 2016 update
• October 2016 update
• September 2016 update
• August 2016 update
• July 2016 update
• June 2016 update
• May 2016 update
• March/April 2016 update
• February 2016 update
• January 2016 update
• December 2015 update
• weekly FPU updates

January Budget

Gosh, it seems tough to get back into the swing of things after the holiday season. The Mister and I definitely indulged a bit this month, going out to eat and purchasing some unplanned clothing purchases; also, I ordered some supplies from Weight Watchers to help get my new dietary lifestyle on track.

Luckily, there was extra income to cover these expenses, and I’m super thankful that my husband is so supportive of my journey and goals. In February, we’re going to have to buckle down though because paying off that debt snowball is way more important than a whim for jewelry or leggings.

January Victories & Blessings

In addition to covering the expenses that popped up because of whims last month, we made the decision that I would attend our martial arts national convention in April and pair that with a trip to see my parents, who moved to Washington. The Mister was very adamant that I take this opportunity since there will be recognition for my black belt promotion.

It’s a good feeling to pay for a trip completely upfront with cash. My plane tickets are paid for. My registration fee is paid for. I have the money for the hotel costs in cash. And I get to spend almost a week with my parents before the convention.

Paying for this trip may slow our debt snowball down a little, but we’re both glad that I can go; two years ago, our method of funding would have been debt.