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Posts tagged with: spending forecast

House Proceeds – Insurance, part 3

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This is part 3 in my July series: How I spent the house proceeds. You can find Part 1 here and Part 2 here

I paid the 6 month premium on my (and Princess’) auto insurance and the next quarterly payment of my life insurance policy.

Auto insurance for 2 cars, 2 drivers, full coverage: $1,730

Level Term life insurance policy (quarterly): $159

Total spent: $1,889

Doesn’t Cost More

First, I know that paying off my auto insurance policy in one lump sum doesn’t really make financial sense. It doesn’t cost me any extra to make monthly payments nor does it same me any money to pay it in one lump sum.

But the mental load off was definitely worth it to me. And now I can just save monthly to do it again in September. Which is when Princess will take over her own auto insurance policy. (Yes, I give each of my kids “help” for 6 months after their schooling ends. They have all gotten this same 6 months.)

Life Insurance Debacle

My life insurance has been a question for a couple of years now. And while I’ve made a couple of phone calls over the years. I’ve never actually done anything about it. I had a 20 year policy that I took at when I was pregnant with Princess. I had a chance to convert it, but the cost and coverage just didn’t make sense.

So I’ve just been letting it ride since the original term expired last December. The cost was $24 per month. And is now more than double that with the coverage declining steadily.

After I arrived in Texas, I started calling and reviewing options. A term life policy for $75K would run me $175+ monthly. Yikes! So I’ve decided to move forward with another 20 year policy. My application is in review now. And I completed the medical exam a couple of weeks ago.

If all goes well, it will run me $55 per month and provide $100K coverage. ($100K was the lowest coverage they would do, not the amount I was looking for.)

We will see what happens…

After 3 parts of how I spent the house proceeds, I’ve now detailed how I spent $7,428. More to come…

5 Reasons It’s More Important Than Ever to Invest in Your Health

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Your health is the foundation of everything else in life—from how you move to how you think and how long you thrive. As demands on our time increase and modern conveniences compete with our well-being, prioritizing health isn’t just a smart choice—it’s a necessary one. Investing in your health now can help you enjoy better energy, prevent chronic conditions, and maintain independence as you age. From physical strength to emotional resilience, the benefits extend into every part of life. Here are five reasons why taking care of yourself should be your top priority.

Returning to Health Services Reflects Ongoing Value

People are more likely to invest in something that delivers real results, which explains why so many continue their wellness routines over time. According to the American Med Spa Association, 73% of patients at med spas are returning clients. Whether it’s skincare, stress reduction, or pain management, this return rate shows that once people see the value of investing in their health, they keep coming back. These routines aren’t simply luxuries—they’re part of long-term strategies to feel and function better.

Community Activities and Sports Keep You Engaged

Joining a recreational league or committing to a group fitness class does more than just burn calories. It builds friendships, teaches discipline, and keeps you motivated. According to Jersey Watch, 81% of Americans agree that sports are important. Regular physical activity, especially when paired with community, is one of the easiest ways to stay accountable. When you invest time and money into sports or active hobbies, you’re also reinforcing mental wellness and social connection, which are just as vital as physical fitness.

Mobility Issues Can Affect Anyone

It’s tempting to put off health routines until something goes wrong, but reactive care often comes too late. Proactive choices—like strength training, stretching, and balanced nutrition—can help maintain physical independence. According to the CDC, 12.1% of adults in the United States have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs. These issues don’t just affect seniors; they can emerge at any stage of life. Investing now in functional movement can reduce the risk of future limitations and help you continue doing the things you love.

Preventive Health Saves You Money Over Time

It may seem expensive to buy quality food, join a gym, or attend health appointments, but waiting until a health crisis hits often costs much more. Hospital visits, medications, and missed work days add up quickly. Regular wellness check-ins, screenings, and mental health care can detect problems early or prevent them entirely. Small, consistent investments in your health now may help you avoid major expenses and disruptions later, making it one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.

Mental Health Is Part of the Equation

Your mental and emotional well-being is inseparable from your physical health. Chronic stress, poor sleep, and isolation all contribute to physical issues like inflammation, high blood pressure, and lowered immunity. Activities such as meditation, therapy, and personal hobbies aren’t indulgent—they’re critical tools for a balanced life. By investing in self-care and mental wellness, you’re strengthening every other part of your health, too. A clear mind supports better decision-making, stronger relationships, and more sustainable energy to keep pursuing your goals.

Taking your health seriously isn’t just a trend—it’s a long-term commitment to a fuller, more capable life. As data shows, people are returning to wellness services, valuing active lifestyles, and recognizing the risks of delaying care. Every step you take today—from prioritizing movement to addressing stress—is an investment in your future self. Whether you’re aiming for strength, longevity, or clarity, the effort you put in now will pay dividends for years to come. Don’t wait to feel worse—take action to feel better.

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