I tried. I really tried hard to be good, but just couldn't leave well enough alone.
After sitting untouched for 13 years, I decided to upgrade audio equipment, both for the home office and home theater. New receiver amplifiers, speakers, cables, and a bunch of other accessories, plus I wanted to clean up some shoddy wiring and installations. Total damage came to over $2,000, and that's not counting a potential new projector, but I'm waiting for a good sale to jump on that.
But honestly that's all OK. Other big spending purchases won't be happening for another 6-12 months so there was plenty of room to get that project knocked out. Markets had another stellar month which gave me virtual breathing room. My 11-month CD finally matured, adding a decent chunk of change to the car fund, which is now in a 9-month CD in case rates do take a tumble as foreseen. The last major factor is receiving a 4% raise at my primary job, retroactive to Jan 1st. That will definitely help with rising necessity expenses.
Other items of interest is getting taxes done for 2023. I'll owe slightly less than $1000, but also calculated and made the max contribution to the SEP IRA. That brings total contributions to 75% of my goal, plenty of time left in the calendar year to throw in the remaining 25%. Not investing any of the new money yet, just letting it grow in the 5% money market fund as dry powder until another correction comes along. Meanwhile my primary home value is irrationally shooting up. How sad I couldn't afford the home I live in now if I tried to buy it today. I really do feel sorry for those trying to get in on the ground floor.
Hoping March will be a little more calm. Stay tuned... |