Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Playing Catch Up

Where Did The Time Go?


So, now that I am finally back, here is what I am up to.  I have my US History I CLEP test tomorrow morning.  Work has been absolutely nuts and I've had to reschedule this thing like three times. Oh, and I haven't been studying all that much, so I am pretty nervous about it. I need to pass! I am also in the middle of four courses (that's right, 12 credits eek!) and have two more classes starting January 7th. Whew. If I can pull this off, I'm taking a vacation somewhere warm and sunny!

So when I was on my little hiatus, I promised pictures. 


A quick stop in Austria to snap a picture! How pretty is that??

This is a ski jump, apparently used in the Winter Olympics.  I don't think the photo really shows just how tall it is...

We went hiking, and this river led to an awesome gorge

Still hiking

That long walk was completely worth the view.  It was so much fun!

A surprise waterfall!

All in All, It Was An Amazing Trip!

We are actually planning on going back in January, when the slopes are open.  This is probably a good time to point out that I have NEVER been skiing or snowboarding in my life.  Get ready for some pictures of my leg in a cast!! Haha, I hope not.  I am too busy to be hobbling around!

Money Money Money!!

I have been bad. Really bad.  I blame Christmas!! It doesn't help that the boyfriend's birthday is two weeks after... but I did finish contributing to my Roth IRA this month! Now I don't have to worry about it again until at least April.  I had an automatic deposit into the account every month, but I think it is easier for me to just put money in in big chunks.

Speaking of Christmas....

I made it very clear to my boyfriend and family that I did not want presents.  I explained that I have everything I need and want, and that I am trying to downsize my possessions. Guess what that did?  A whole lot of nothing.  Ugh. So now I need to figure out what on Earth to do with these gifts come Christmas morning. Has anyone done this and actually had success??

Leave me some love in the comments!!

Monday, December 10, 2012

Finding Time

Wow, I've taken quite a break from this little blog. I feel pretty badly about it, because it really is a huge goal of mine to have a fully functioning, regularly updated blog. I am trying to get my thoughts out there and hopefully meet a lot of great people in the process!!

Where Have I Been?

 Life happens, right?  I have started school again.  These are 8 week classes, and I am currently taking four. It's brutal.  But, a necessary evil.  I am really trying to keep on this timeline to be done with my degree by May. So that equals more than full time at school, while working full time.  As well as trying to prepare for the holidays. Whew.

No More Excuses

For now, I am going to treat this blog as a homework assignment, until I get back in the swing of things.  I thoroughly enjoy posting on here, and responding to comments (sorry for the spam while I was away). I promise I'll get better.  Any ideas on future posts? Oh, and if you have a blog, I would love to check it out and get to know you all better!

I Will Be Back at Least Twice This Week!!



Saturday, November 10, 2012

Vacation Again!

Hi! Just a quick little update. Since it is a holiday weekend, the bf and a couple of our friends are out at a resort in the Alps. It is so gorgeous!! I will definitely put up some pictures when I get back. I would love to add more, but I have homework to get done, and a hot tub is screaming my name!! Hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend!!

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

The Best Investment

Back to School


This past Monday, I once again started classes to finish up my bachelor's degree.  I would have started again sooner, but my employer only pays so much per year, so I figured I would take a couple month break and have them pay it for me. That is an excellent benefit!!

The Next Few Months

Are going to be rough.  Well, that may be an understatement.  I take classes online, which is nice since I'm overseas and all, and they only last 8 weeks. I have it in my mind that I will have my degree this spring.  I am very stubborn.  I need 31 more credits to graduate.  Assuming every class is 3 credit hours that is 10 classes. By April. How am I going to do this without going crazy? No clue. 


This will be me.

 

Here is the Plan:


  • November- 
    • 2 classes start (one 3 credits, the other 4) = FREE
    • Technical Writing DSST- 3 credits = FREE
    • US History I CLEP-  3 credits = FREE
  • December
    • 2 classes start (3 credits each) = FREE
    • US History II CLEP - 3 credits = FREE 
  • January
    • 2 classes start (3 credits each) $1500
    • College Math CLEP (3 credits) = FREE
    • Apply for Graduation!! = $100 fee
  • February
    • 1 more class!! (3 credits) = $750

So There You Have It

 

Even though it took a bit longer than I expected or wanted, my degree will be done this spring.  At a total cost of  $2350. Take that uber expensive schools and student loan companies!!!  I'm counting this as a big win.


Anyone out there still in school? Does your employer pay for it? Did you take advantage of the credit by examination programs? Anybody want to teach me math?!  I am terrible at it. Leave some love in the comments!! Oh, and I think I have figured out this button thing. So if you could share it, I'd love you for it!! Thanks!
The Almost Grown Up