I was going to be off until after the New Year; however, my children attend the only school that has school this week, really one full day yesterday and 1/2 day today. This has afforded me one last day to myself (yesterday I accomplished ALL final shopping) and I have a last hour before I help in the 3rd grade Christmas party.

I must admit, a day without checking the board doesn't seem right! I also paid some bills and got a few moves on FB Scrabble.

Financially, with monetary gifts we have achieve the goal of $15,000 in the EF/car fund by $125. Now all funds will continue to be split 50-50 with savings and car.

The last of the medical bills have been paid off.

I am increasing our contributions to savings by another 5% (going to my Vanguard IRA) and making automatic investments of $15 (I know, not a lot, but something) to the kids' education accounts twice a month.

I'm returning to school in January to obtain an EDOC (Eating Disorders and Obesity Certificate) which will at least provide a specialization for me. I am considering returning to part-time employment and most inpatient places like to have a specialist in each area of difficulty. I will start with one class and I do have things I need to get done (like CLEPP out of a Nutrition 101 class - scary!)

Our cash flow management system has improved tremendously. As much as I LOVE coupons, I believe the best things for us has been shopping in bulk at Sam's Club (using my mom's membership). I have used lots of coupons for great discounts for gifts (Bath and Body Works, Fannie May Candy, Old Navy, etc.)

My passive income challenge is great: I ended up with a third $10 gift card for an Rx transfer, $6 price adjustment on PJs from Target, free groceries (Capri Sun, Pepperidge Farm cookies, and microwavable popcorn) with the purchase of "Despicable Me", another $12 savings with a coupon my mom had for a Carson Pirie Scott purchase. I have set up an account with those moneys in it. Nice to see it grow.

So, this is my last wish for a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Season's Greetings. I appreciate the friendship and support of my cyber friends here.

When you see me in 2011, I'll have some concrete goals to tackle! 2010 left me sort of lukewarm about concrete goals, but I've done well with vague goals!

Catch you on the flipside!!