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Anyone who reads here knows that I have been STRUGGLING for a couple of years now with what is next for me. Since the kids started growing up and moving out and then away, I have spiraled in so many ways. I was just not at all mentally prepared for this phase of life.

The only decision I was for sure on was that I would not leave the state until Princess graduated from college. That happens in May, 2025. 8 months away. And she will turn 21 the same week. A full adult. With a post grad offer. She is set.

But I have continued to flounder on what’s next for me. Stay or go?

The Writing on the Wall

But last month, I had an epiphany after an especially emotional week. I woke up on Saturday with the constant question of what’s next on my mind as I lay there in bed.

I came to the realization that this house is an anchor around my neck. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE this house. I love that it’s truly a dream come true. The first house I ever purchased on my own. The first stable place I was able to provide for my children since my separation from my ex-husband over 16 years ago. And it’s truly a dream place because I have completely overhauled the whole house.

But it’s also the place I bought and built with my ex-fiancé in mind. With the future we planned together. The future I thought I would have. I lay there Saturday and looked at my custom built closet that I designed and could only think about my ex here one holiday staining the whole thing. (That break up happened the week after Thanksgiving in 2022.)

And the feeling of loss for that future overwhelmed me AGAIN.

Then I recognized this house for what it has become…an anchor. And no longer in a stabilizing, safe way. But more so in a preventing the next chapter of my life from starting way. Keeping me from moving forward.

I don’t think I’m supposed to be here in this house, in this tiny town any longer. Rather, I know I’m not. The decision has been made.

Selling the House

Next spring, I will put the house on the market. And then I will follow what fate and God have for me. The goal is to sell the house just in time for Princess graduation. (The monies from the sale will be put away for a future house…someday.)

So I’ve started making a list of everything I will need to do to make the house ready to sell.

The support from my kids as I’ve let them know…has been overwhelmingly positive. None of them have real plans to come back to this tiny town. Some very much oppose me being here.

And my first stop post sale has already be determined. I will be house and pet sitting for Princess as she must be out of state for a month or so to start her new job.

I don’t know what the future holds. And I am 100% okay with that. I am confident this is the right next step for me. For now the plan will be to make Texas my homebase. My dad’s house. But I don’t know if that will be what actually happens.

Hope

Hope is a resourceful, solutions-driven online business manager with over two decades of experience helping clients streamline operations, manage projects, and grow their businesses through digital marketing and technology.

But life has a way of rewriting your plans.

A year ago, Hope made the decision to move in with her aging parents full time – a season she wouldn’t trade, even as it came with its own financial and emotional weight. Earlier this year, she lost her mother, and is now walking the tender, disorienting path of grief while learning what “forward” looks like from here.

Hope came to the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015 as a single mom raising five foster and adoptive children. She’s written through job changes, financial setbacks, and the bittersweet transition to an empty nest. Her kids are finding their footing in the world now – and so is she.

Rooted in faith and fueled by the same perseverance she’s brought to every hard season, Hope is ready to face her finances with fresh eyes and an honest pen. She believes that clarity, courage, and community can change the trajectory of anyone’s story including her own.

She lives in Austin, TX with her dad, loves adventures with her dog Addie, and is figuring out, one step at a time, what this next chapter is meant to be.

How to Budget for Bathroom Remodeling

by Semify

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most common home improvement projects for a reason. It not only enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home but can also increase property value. However, planning a bathroom renovation requires careful budgeting to ensure the project stays within your financial limits while still achieving your desired results. Here’s how you can effectively budget for a bathroom remodel while keeping in mind some important factors.

1. Assess the Size and Scope of Your Project

The first step in budgeting for a bathroom remodel is understanding the scope of the project. The size of your bathroom will significantly affect the overall cost. For example, compact bathrooms—those that take up less space—make up about 14.81% of all bathrooms. Remodeling a smaller bathroom typically costs less than renovating a large one due to fewer materials and less labor required. However, even a small space can become expensive if you opt for high-end materials or luxury fixtures.

Before setting your budget, evaluate the size of your bathroom and the specific changes you want to make. Are you planning to replace the fixtures, update the flooring, or overhaul the entire layout? Make a list of your priorities to get a clearer idea of how much each element will cost.

2. Consider Bathroom Remodeling Trends

Bathroom renovations are a highly popular home improvement project. In fact, bathroom remodeling ranks as the second-most popular home upgrade among homeowners, according to RubyHome. This trend can influence both the availability of materials and the cost of labor, as high demand can sometimes lead to increased prices. Staying informed about current remodeling trends can help you plan your project more effectively, allowing you to decide whether to follow popular styles or opt for a more timeless design.

Keeping up with these trends can also help you prioritize where to invest your money. For example, upgrading the shower, installing modern lighting, or adding more storage space are common focuses in bathroom renovations.

3. Research Material Costs

Another critical factor in budgeting for a bathroom remodel is the cost of materials. Whether you’re replacing tiles, upgrading countertops, or installing a new vanity, material prices can vary widely. High-end materials like marble or quartz will significantly increase your budget, while more affordable options such as ceramic tiles or laminate countertops can help you keep costs down without sacrificing style.

Additionally, if you’re considering eco-friendly materials, they may come with a higher price tag upfront but offer long-term savings in terms of energy efficiency and water usage. When planning your budget, research different material options and decide which ones best fit your style and price range.

4. Factor in Labor Costs

Labor is another significant expense in any bathroom renovation. The more complex the remodel, the higher the labor costs will be. For example, moving plumbing fixtures, such as the toilet or shower, will increase labor costs significantly. On average, labor can account for about 20-40% of the total remodeling cost.

To keep costs in check, it’s essential to get multiple quotes from contractors. Hiring a reliable contractor with experience in bathroom remodeling can help ensure the project runs smoothly and stays within budget. When comparing quotes, don’t just look at the price—also consider the contractor’s reputation, experience, and estimated timeline.

5. Consider Bathroom Size and Canadian Homeowners’ Preferences

It’s also worth noting that bathrooms are one of the most commonly renovated spaces, especially in Canada. Nearly one-third of Canadian homeowners have plans to renovate their bathrooms, making it the second-most popular area for home improvements. This growing interest in bathroom remodeling highlights the importance of creating a budget that reflects both your needs and the current market.

Smaller bathrooms, though compact, can still be transformed into functional and beautiful spaces. The key is to prioritize your spending based on the most important upgrades, such as new fixtures, improved storage, or better lighting. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, focus on maximizing space efficiency while keeping costs in line with your budget.

Budgeting for a bathroom remodel involves careful planning and consideration of several factors, from the size of your bathroom to the cost of materials and labor. With nearly one-third of Canadian homeowners planning to renovate their bathrooms and bathroom renovations ranking as one of the most popular home improvement projects overall, it’s clear that investing in this space can yield significant benefits. By setting a realistic budget, researching costs, and planning for unexpected expenses, you can achieve the bathroom of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Blogging Away Debt Blogging Away Debt follows real people on their journey to debt freedom — with tips on the debt snowball, budgeting, cutting expenses, and staying motivated.

Making a List – A Big Decision