Don't be too proud

Money...

I'll be honest (HA, when am I not?!?!), I do not always make the best decisions with money. Now there are a couple things I do well with my finances... 1) I automatically put 10% of my income into my retirement accounts (401k & IRA) and I don't touch it. 2) Since I was old enough to have my own accounts, I've never made a late payment on a single bill. 3) I have excellent credit and have worked religiously not to accrue more debt (well up to this point...).

My only real downside is that I'm not good saving for the rainy day. Like last weekend when Kudos got a bladder infection, there went $300+. Or when I decided randomly that I just must spend my New Years in Vegas, that cost me a good $700. Of course, I didn't plan on losing 5 days of work and pay due to a snowstorm--that wasn't in the plan! So now it's time to actually go to Europe...and the savings account is---Empty! LOL

It's okay, I've paid for a few things ahead...like the plane ticket and my rent through March. Yes, I'm going to have a throw a few grand on the debt pile while I'm over there---but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Credit cards may be the devil, but I do work hard. My debt will get paid off, I'm trying not to stress, and no one else needs to stress over my finances either (that means YOU DAD!). That being said I have to be careful. That digital camera I wanted to buy...the sleeping bag I need...the money isn't really there. My beautiful little sister generously gave me her camera to borrow. Steph & Dave have loaned me a leatherman, sleeping bag, and flashlight. My Dad made sure I had a money pouch and electrical adapter. At first, I didn't want to borrow anything from anyone, I felt as though I'd be putting them out. But sometimes, we have to know when to ask for help and accept it. So I've accepted some help from the wonderful people around me..and I'm going to be just fine.

This is all really just another life lesson for me... I can't afford to be proud anymore. The girl who always makes sure she pays for herself has to learn a little humility. I'm going to be at the mercy of strangers in Europe. People who are opening their homes to me for free---simply out of the goodness of their hearts. I need those people now...they are what is making this trip possible.

My budget for the trip: 30 euros a day with another 1,000 euros for transportation and special events. It's not a lot, but I don't need expensive things there. I've got my backpack, good shoes, and a camera. The most amazing sights in life---are free. And I intend on hunting all of those down! :)

PS: Did I mention that I'm going to Rome in 4 days!!!! WAHOOO, it's crazy, crazy, good! ;)