Desperate to retire...

Couldsavemore

@Spinayarn

That's what I've thought. A total change but then I could do supply and work part time. Bit then I'd stress about an inconsistent income  and still be with kids.

I'm basically not sure which way to go but I have a few years to go yet.

Couldsavemore

Let's just say the car MOT did NOT go well.

I've used the same garage for years and this is the first time I've had a car fail. Its got a very good reputation to.

I've left my car there as the list involved brakes and suspension rods. 

It'll be well into the hundreds..

Arghhhhh

Sometimes, it feels like financially I can't get ahead!

[Deleted User]

I always loved my time with the students. They have kept my outlook young and mind sharp, especially the more challenging ones! I suspect because I was a bit of a 'goody goody' I admire those with a bit more spirit than I ever had! 

Spendless

Are you on track to pay off the 0% CC by the time the deal ends? We worked out ours to the monthly amount but pay the min amount off the CC each month. The surplus goes into high interest savings accounts. As the 0% comes to an end, we will pay it all off before interest starts using the money from the savings. The interest gained is ours to either pay the debt earlier or do with what we wish.

Are you a Primary or Secondary school teacher? If Secondary is your subject one where you could make additional money tutoring as exam season comes up. If Primary can you still offer English/Maths as there'll be parents who get their knickers in a twist about yr6  SATS  and how their child does in them (I was once that parent - with my eldest at least, by the time my youngest was doing them, I'd got over it). This is if you're in a part of the UK that still does them. 

Is teenage son 13 when pocket money is the main source of income or 17 when he could possibly look for p-time work?. Have you taken into account his future choices and any financial  contribution you might need to make?  I really regret not saving for  Uni accommodation costs during my eldest's  sixth form years with my wages. I was aware of the hidden 'top up costs' but didn't think to do anything about it! 

And yes with a diary you can think you're nattering away to no-one about the most mundane things but that's not necessarily correct. 

Couldsavemore

@[Deleted User]

I teach in a behavioural school, we only take children with co morbid diagnosis. It's the high end of the high end.

I lost my rose tinted glasses many years ago.

Couldsavemore

@Spendless

Yes, it' should be paid off. I'm overpaying by a 100 a month. I do put 400 away in savings but every few month something seems to go Pete tong..
October and November were vet and garage bills, December Christmas  now it looks like the repairs will be into the hundreds..

As for my son, he's 13 but has ADHD, Autism and Dyslexia.. so he struggles massively with executive functioning so he won't be heading to uni or 6 form. 

He'll be able to work in a trade as he's more practical. 

Couldsavemore

@Spendless

I teach predominantly GCSE maths and GCSE science.

I don't feel like tutoring. 

I work full time and am a single mam. Raising my son is not easy.

I'm often surprised by the number of parents who want to compare their kids to mine.. like they want diagnosis for them. 

My nerves are literally shot

Sun_Addict

Just sending hugs 🤗  You’re doing great. 

Spendless

Completely understand you not wanting to take on any additional work. 3-5 year aim sounds good as it'll take your son to leaving school age and a change in circs. 

Couldsavemore

@spendless
I’m waiting to see if I get exam marking contracts. I usually get 2 contracts for GCSE marking. It’s boring and repetitive but easier to work around home life.

I’m working really hard to raise my son to be independent and able to live on his own. Sounds harsh but he needs a good push at times