When I was gambling, I would do monthly, and sometimes bi-weekly, payday loans. They were easy to get, allowed me to pay some of my bills on time. Or they would allow me some “play” money. I can not tell you how much money I spent on those loans.

In 2005, mom and I were approved for the mortgage on this house. We were so not ready for that. We didn’t know the first thing about home loans, mortgages or anything of the like. Two years later, here we sit.

I know that the next time (IF I decide to become a home owner again) I will do my research on the loan, the person providing the loan (broker) and the loan company. We got a bad deal for several reasons. We didn’t understand what we were signing AND the lady who got us the loan was not an honest, up front person.

I do know that when/if I go to get a new house, or to refinance one that I’m already in, I will know what I’m doing and what I’m signing. Hindsight is 20/20 in all things and it has definitely been a learning process.

Now that I’m moving to Kentucky, my finances have become a lot more important to me than they ever have been. I’m currently paranoid about financial security and stability when I move. I’ve made sure that I’m going down with a nest egg to have in my back pocket (not literally) if I ever need it.