A Year in the Life of...

EssexHebridean

Sorry about the 80 posts GAP - I do ramble a bit!   

We've got an "EF" which is in one place, but also another pot of "long term savings" which are NOT for dipping into unless the right Hebrides property comes along. The EF itself tends to build beyond its original "desired minimum" level but then occasionally will get a larger purchase taken from it - the bulk payment for MrEH's replacement car, for example. I think different methods here work for different people. 

You've reminded me that I probably need to look again at our "survival level" income though so I know how long the EF would stretch, AND also have a starting point should either of us need to find new employment. That's probably something to think about doing in the new year. 

beanielou

EssexHebridean said:

Glad you had a lovely time on your trip away, but sorry to hear you've been having more health issues. 

On the EF/Christmas thing - you've acknowledged what's caused the issue, and started planning ahead, PLUS you have the standby funds there to plug the gap. That all sounds like good money management to me! 

This from me too  xx

beanielou

girlatplay said:

Thank you EH.  I suppose as well, I put all 'spare' cash into the EF accounts as it's good to see the balance going up and I'm less tempted to use it but it's not really all EF money.  That's why it's not a huge deal, it just makes me look bad dipping the EF for random spends.

Your diary is next on my hit list and currently has 80 unread posts!

This. Me too! 
Mine all goes into the CU.  I think it is because it is the first time in my life I have ever had saving/EF.
I mean at the moment 99% is earmarked for my mums birthday next year & for my funeral.
But even so I HATE dipping into it.

girlatplay

beanielou said:

EssexHebridean said:

Glad you had a lovely time on your trip away, but sorry to hear you've been having more health issues. 

On the EF/Christmas thing - you've acknowledged what's caused the issue, and started planning ahead, PLUS you have the standby funds there to plug the gap. That all sounds like good money management to me! 

This from me too  xx

Thank you xx

beanielou said:

girlatplay said:

Thank you EH.  I suppose as well, I put all 'spare' cash into the EF accounts as it's good to see the balance going up and I'm less tempted to use it but it's not really all EF money.  That's why it's not a huge deal, it just makes me look bad dipping the EF for random spends.

Your diary is next on my hit list and currently has 80 unread posts!

This. Me too! 
Mine all goes into the CU.  I think it is because it is the first time in my life I have ever had saving/EF.
I mean at the moment 99% is earmarked for my mums birthday next year & for my funeral.
But even so I HATE dipping into it.

Posting here really keeps me accountable to myself which really helps me to not dip it.

I think I'll split it out in my signature as psychologically it will make it easier for me.  I have some of it in my current account (I'm getting a teeny bit of interest if I keep it in there), some in another small savings account and some in PBs so I need to keep a note of how much I have and my sig is a great visual place.  I really want to get my CA up to £5k as that's the max I can get interest on.  That's what I am working towards now.

girlatplay

I have played about with my signature and I think I'm happy with it like this.  My EF balance should stay the same (unless something happens) and the dip balance, this month aside, should go up.  I'll know by the end of the year what damage has been done but by then I will be setting my 2022 goals so it will be fine.  I do allow myself a little to play with each month so I shouldn't really have to dip.

savingholmes

Love the new signature GAP. You've made really good progress this year - and having this level of savings would have seemed impossible not so long ago.

girlatplay

savingholmes said:

Love the new signature GAP. You've made really good progress this year - and having this level of savings would have seemed impossible not so long ago.

You're so right.  I practically wiped my EF to get rid of the loan.  I did get a monetary gift which I put towards building it back up though remember, I haven't saved all that myself.  Also, being  made full time at work is helping my finances immensely.

I'm so excited about your new diary.  Not sure if you saw my first post as I cross posted with you on p10 but just want you to know you have my support as always.

savingholmes

Thanks GAP - I did see your post. You nearly made me cry - along with the other poster... 

I really do appreciate it. As you know from your own experience - comments and support and encouragement really matter. I had a gift too which is the only reason I am CC debt neutral. I wouldn't be otherwise - even now it's a bit touch and go.

I also know that you've had to fight your way through health problems to be full time so even that's not without sacrifice and concern for you. You are doing well. 

girlatplay

savingholmes said:

Thanks GAP - I did see your post. You nearly made me cry - along with the other poster... 

I really do appreciate it. As you know from your own experience - comments and support and encouragement really matter. I had a gift too which is the only reason I am CC debt neutral. I wouldn't be otherwise - even now it's a bit touch and go.

I also know that you've had to fight your way through health problems to be full time so even that's not without sacrifice and concern for you. You are doing well. 

Thank you

boxofpaws

Morning GAP

Haven’t posted in a while, and am catching up. LMG was a child when I last posted! She was always splendid though, lovely to hear she still is.

Somehow I am not subscribed so maybe I read an older diary, so will do that now.

Paws