Expense Update for December 2019

It’s the final month of expenses for the year. December was always my favorite month prior FIRE. My only time off from work was during the Christmas holidays. I used to take about 3 days to 1 week off during the Christmas holidays depending on how busy I was. It was my only break in the year. Today, the month is not as important as it was in my past.

Every month is a blessing. I can’t explain how grateful I am as I am still somewhat adjusting to this FIRE lifestyle (yes even after 4 years…). What more is there to the month of December than spending the holidays with the ones you love. A month of giving and showing appreciation is what this month is about.

So, I did a little bit of shopping for the month! Let’s get to the details, shall we?

Oh, by the way, need help tracking your finances? I use Personal Capital. It’s a great free online tool to help you keep track of your finances. Give them a spin!

 

Expenses

Taxes: $3,142

Shopping: $1,010. Did some shopping this month. Purchased the iPhone 11 256GB for $450. I really can’t tell the difference between the LCD screen vs the OLED. Completely happy with the 11 over the 11 Pro. The rest were mostly gifts for loved ones.

Groceries: $566. We eat healthy most of the time. But sometimes….

Chili cheese smothered chips with pico de gallo, bacon, and 2 fried eggs…. We call it the Christian heart attack chili chips…. It’s ok! That’s why we all exercise right?!

We are also learning how to make amazing fusion Japanese/Korean Ramen with those perfectly boiled eggs. It may not look like much but this was better than what you eat at the restaurants!

Rental Property – Expenses: $400

Auto – Maintenance: $339. The 20 year old car threw off the check engine sign for a mass airflow sensor issue. Hang in there buddy!

Utilities: $236

Mobile Phone: $163

Auto – Gas: $141

Restaurants: $80. I try to remember to take photos before I eat but 90% of the times I forget. When I see food, first thought is “devour and eliminate”. I managed to take two shots! One of my new favorite sin food in San Diego, adobada fries!

The second are hot dogs from a popular franchise from Korea called Myungrang Hotdog. The top is the squid-Ink hotdog (Don’t let the name scare you) and the bottom mozzarella/Sausage hot dog. I couldn’t resist to take a bite but forced myself to take the time for a shot. Give them a try if you can locate one around you. Quite tasty!

Home – Landscaping: $40

Pets/Pet Care: $37

Service Fees: $29

Dues & Subscription: $15

Travel – Transportation: $13

Postage/Shipping: $6

Total: $6,217

I love the simple things in life. My happiness level can hit level 10 from the occasional indulgence in adobaba fries. Doesn’t take much to make me happy. Financial freedom, good health, good food and loved ones around me.. what more could I ask for.

Ending the year off a great note and looking forward to what the next decade will bring us. That wraps the year in expenses! Thanks for reading.