InsuranceOpen enrollment again: what we're changing for 2027
One year on Tyler's plan. What we actually used, what it cost us, and the small changes we're making this time around.
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Insurance
Extra IncomeIs a garage sale still worth it? Our fall sale numbers
Six hours, two folding tables and a lot of people asking for less. What we made, what was left and whether we'd do it again.
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The House FundTwenty months of saving for a house: where every dollar came from
From $4,200 to $32,200. Paychecks, refunds, side money, the jar and one paid-off car, added up honestly, including what didn't work.
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Small-Town LivingTouring six houses around Macon in one weekend
One we loved, one with a cracked foundation and four in between. What we noticed, what we asked and why we're still renting for now.
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Bills & BudgetWhat it costs two people to live in small-town Missouri for a year
Twelve months of rent, utilities, groceries, gas, insurance and everything else, from our sheet. The real total, category by category.
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Groceries & MealsA week of $5 dinners from the Walmart in town
Seven dinners for two, each under five dollars. The recipes, the receipt and which ones Tyler asked for again.
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The House FundGetting pre-approved: what they asked for and what surprised us
Pay stubs, two years of taxes, bank statements and a letter about the mowing money. How pre-approval went and the number we got.
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InsuranceGetting homeowners insurance quotes before we own a house
We asked for quotes on two houses we were looking at. What changed the price, why older roofs matter and the surprise about the wiring.
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Extra IncomeOur side income for the first year, every dollar
Mowing, furniture flips, selling clutter and odds and ends from June to May. The total, the taxes and where it all went.
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Groceries & MealsCanning tomatoes with Tyler's mom (and whether it saves money)
A Saturday in Debbie's kitchen in Kirksville, two bushels of tomatoes and 21 quart jars. The honest cost per jar.
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