Blogging Away Debt Our Journeys to a Debt-Free Life

by Hope

I am back on the road to Texas. I was delayed in leaving by two days because I was EXHAUSTED! The set up, the wedding and dancing, and the clean up really took it out of me. I even gave in and went to get a foot massage yesterday because my legs were hurting so badly I hadn’t been able to sleep well. It was a $45 expense I hadn’t planned for, but so worth it because I can walk again today without pain. Princess gave me a melatonin last night to help me sleep as well. So between the massage and a good night’s sleep, I was ready to hit the road today.

Taking Stuff Back to Texas

My car is quite packed because I picked up a number of things from storage since I’m not sure when I will be back this way. I got a big tub full of clothes. I’ve been living out of a suitcase since May and with the changing seasons, it will be nice to have some more clothes. I got all my books – 2 small boxes and 2 small bags. I’m not a book hoarder; I tend to read them and get rid of them with few exceptions so this will give me something to do in my “free” time.

I also picked up my crafting stuff. There’s not much left of it, but I want to make some Christmas gifts, and figured I could use it up rather than buy more. Thankfully, I had the foresight to label everything well, so grabbing these items was easy to do. And was alot of fun to do with the kids.

I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to sleep in my car on the route back, but I think I’ve got enough space although it will be tighter than usual.

Christmas Stuff Dispersed

While we were in the storage unit, the kids all grabbed some stuff they wanted. From clothes to Christmas decor, I was ready to purge some more. The two girls divided my Christmas stuff – the tree and recently purchased decor went to Beauty and Princess took more of the sentimental items that came from the family. The twins and Princess also raided my clothes taking sweatshirts, winter items, etc.

We did a lot of reminiscing as things brought back memories. It was a good time. And it was good to be reminded of the things I had kept.

Purpose Found

I know my purpose for the first time in years. Many who’ve been around know that I have really struggled mentally since my kiddos started leaving the nest. Figuring out who I am outside of “mom” has been a really tough challenge for me. But I feel like I know where I’ve supposed to be for now. In Texas, with my parents. They need the help. And perhaps this was God’s plan all along, I just didn’t recognize it.

But I know that caring for my parents is where I am supposed to be for now. Until they no longer need me, I plan to stick.

It’s been nice to have that clarity.

Hope

Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.

Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.

Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.