Regroup, Retire, Really Simple

Life in Retirement:  Week One

I just got back to the Little House after working in Maine since the end of August.  Now, the transition begins...no more weekly paychecks.  Being home will make tightening my belt and cutting corners very necessary but it is so good to be back home. I will be broke but happy so let the changes begin:

• So, I had switched to DISH TV last year to save money at $67 a month. Today, I wanted to add internet service...$59 more dollars. I told them I might as will be back with Cable TV for that price it would include landline phone, TV, and internet. Switching back to Spectrum! They now offer cell phone service as well for $$$ less than I am paying.  

Reality Check:  There is a $140 deactivation fee since I had not been with Dish for two years.  That hurts but it will be well worth it in the long run.

• Several water pipes are frozen.  I checked around to see if I could find my usual plumbing rescue specialist.  He was not available.  Not giving up easily, I checked around for two days.  Yesterday, I had to call the local plumbing and heating company.  (Big Sigh)

Reality Check:  The bill for the plumbing repair was for $227.60.  It had to be done so I have to suck it up and see if I can make it up.

• I called Student Loans yesterday to let them know that I am no longer employed. I do not want to go into default.

Reality Check:  Some bills cannot be put off or taken for granted.  Being responsible is a must.

• Being realistic, I started checking around for a part-time job.  If I truly want to stay home and retire than I have to find something to supplement my Social Security.  There is a ceiling amount that I can make so I have parameters to work within.

Reality Check:  I don't have a pension or 401K.but I can make this work for me.

• Just stopped by the local grocery store on Monday and bought a few groceries.  Made a pot of chicken soup to help me feel better.  The lovely aroma of cooking soup filled the shanty and that was so comforting.  I have to make another pot of soup for the rest of the week since I finished the soup last evening.  

Reality Check:  No more eating out. Saving money starts right now.

Making a note to sit down and review all my bills so I can make a list of what is owed and when the payments are due.  It will be a reality check.

Reality Check:  I have started listing things for sale on Facebook Marketplace.  I live simply so things do not matter to me.

Retirement.  Such a wonderful word for living simply once again on a whole lot less.  I have to admit to a nice feeling of peace.  I miss my friends in Maine; they will always be dear to me, especially the lead technologist.