It’s December. I know, you know, we all know. Mostly because of all the cute lights, family traditions and eggnog lattes — but also because it means you’ll have to dive a little bit deeper into your pockets to find some loose change that can go towards gifts or travel. Currently, I’m on the road with my six month old baby. We have officially gotten through one of our four flights occurring this month, and tomorrow will begin our second move out of several to a strange place. If you are a parent or know a parent, I can only assume you understand the fact that I am currently drowning.

Although, let’s be honest, I’ve been drowning — hence the bi-weekly blog posts and lack of newsletter mail outs. However, this trip will officially be pushing my 2018 mood to a new level. A level that cannot be tracked because the scale doesn’t go that high.

I need a break. And I’m learning that it’s okay to say that. I’ve finally accepted that I’ll never be able to do it all at once — says the girl working two side jobs while on maternity leave from her actual job to raise a human life and also attempt to continue running a baller-ass personal finance blog.

For the rest of 2018, which is dwindling quickly — I’ll be spending time off my blog and my Twitter, and doing nothing but eating cookies, vacationing with family, and catching up on contract work. I will, however, promise to keep you updated on Instagram.

Last night I was poking through my YouTube videos and came across my Christmas video from two years ago, which reminded me how much can change in such a short amount of time. As my last post of 2018, I wanted to share with you some of my favorite posts since starting my blog, as a little throwback before a new and exciting 2019.

1. What Are You Afraid Of? My Biggest Financial Fears 

“I fear I will fail to provide myself with the opportunity to afford all of the things I want in life. I fear I will fail to save enough money for a successful retirement. I fear that I will never be able to support a family, if I do end up having one. But mostly, I fear that I will be forever facing some sort of debt.“

My, my, how things really do change.

2. 40 Things You Can Do Once You’re Debt-Free

“Debt is a heavy burden to hold onto, and it is an uphill battle that can’t be fought overnight. However, debt also brings some positive features such as tough learning lessons, an obvious need for organizational skills, and thick skin.”

Tbh, I’ve totally attempted everything on this list.

3. My First Big Girl Job Was a Financial Nightmare

“Holding debt, fearing a job loss, and experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace are some of the worst feelings I’ve ever felt. And I will never let myself feel that way again.”

I will not and have not taken a job where my leader was not everything I aspire to be.

4. The “One Day” Shorts

“Assuming you’ll one day fit into a smaller piece of clothing because you have a goal is like assuming your debt will disappear because you want it to. Instead of hoping for the best, why not just tackle it head on? I’m still trying first-hand to get it right, but we all have our slips (pun intended).”

Never. again.

5. Why We Waited 1 Year to Go on Our Honeymoon

“I have many reasons. Reasons that I think more people should consider postponing their honeymoon, rather than extending their wedding holiday and stretching themselves thin financially.”

Worth every extra day we waited.

Thank you for consistently reading, sticking with me through the disorganization that has been my new journey as a mom, and the encouragement to continue pushing on with this passion project. Although 2018 wasn’t perfect, I can promise you that I have some wonderful ideas and changes to come next year — which is oh SO soon.

Miss you already, but see you soon. Have a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones.