SLIDER

Showing posts with label summer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label summer. Show all posts

Making extra income

April 22, 2013

Turns out I have two jobs. Both of them happen to be income that allows me to make more some weeks and less on others.  Turns out summer is normally a bit slower for me, which allows time to go on vacation, etc. But I also like to try and find unique ways to make extra income in the summer.

That being said I've been thinking hard about different things I can do in the summer. So, I was curious, what ways (if applicable) do you make a little extra income?

5 reasons to be excited about summer

April 4, 2013

With the spring weather lately, I am getting excited for summer to roll around. There are so many reasons why I prefer summer, and now that I'm starting on this money journey, I love even more.

1) Allows you to clean house -  In the summer, for me at least, it allows me to go through my apartment, my stuff, my work and organize and throw things out. Everything needs to be lighter in the summer including your possessions. With the warm weather, it's the perfect opportunity to reorganize and simplify things. I have a lot more motivation to throw stuff away when I'm nice and warm instead of when I freeze being outside for one minute.

2) More cost effective activities - In the summer, there are so many more things to do outside.  I actually save a ton of money in the summer, because instead of snowboarding, going for dinner and going to movies;  I go for walks, enjoy festivals, go biking and pretty much all outdoor activities that cost little to nothing. One of my favourite things to do is get a camera and go for a walk. Photography is a little passion of mine, and you'd be surprised what you can catch on film while enjoying the outdoors and fresh air.

3) Less energy - If you own a house or rent a place, you know that especially in Canada, your power bills sky rocket in the winter. Obviously because we have to deal with -30 degree weather.  Power and gas bills go down a ton in the summer, and I love it!

4) Gardening - There are so many great herbs and vegetables that you can grow, that will cut down your groceries bill in half! I currently live in an apartment, SO I'm not really taking my own advice. But one thing I'm so excited for when I own a house, is my garden.  I can't stand plants indoors, but love plants outdoors! Bring on the healthy veggies!

5) Air travel - It's well known, especially in Canada, that flights are more expensive in winter because that is when everyone is trying to go away on a tropical vacation. Yes, winter is when people want to go away more, but in you choose to go in the summer, you will get more bang for your buck in terms of air flights and accommodations.

Summer brings so many wonderful things, and I can't wait for summer 2013! It's not long for us, so we have to enjoy it while we can!


-->

To bike, or not to bike: that is the question

March 31, 2013

Since spring has finally sprung here in my hometown, I have been itching to get outside. I already love running, and I can't wait to do that and prep for my 2nd half marathon in September. But lately, I have been wanting to bike.  I live very close to trails and within biking distance of all major shopping areas. Yet, I'm unsure if this will be a worth while expense for me. Bikes can definitely be expensive depending on what you get.

Because of my job(s), I have to drive. That is something that I can't change, but I'm still struggling with the pros and cons of this expense, should I decide to purchase a bike.

Luckily, there are some cheap bikes out there. I could probably get a decent one that will get the job done for $300-$400 without any bells or whistles. I have also seen many very expensive bikes ranging from $2000+ which is just ridiculous in my mind, unless that is your primary mode of transportation or you are a professional rider or something.

The 2nd issue I am faced with is if I will even use it that much to make it worth while. I know I SAY I will, but things always change and I'm worried that it will just go to waste. I mean, we don't have a very long summer as it is.

We will have to see. I'll definitely have to budget for one, and If I end up scoring a great deal, I will let you all know!