A Bargain

So, like every person does, I enjoy a good deal. Granted, I am not as gifted as my mother in always finding the best deals out there, but I do enjoy those moments that I feel like I got something at a really good price. Last week I began the search for a new backpack - one with a lifetime guarantee, that could be used to carry my laptop and things, or one that could be used for weekend trips. The type of backpack I was looking for normally runs between $80 and $120, but I was only willing to pay $40 (I know, sounds crazy for a backpack, right?). Anyways, on Monday night I received an email from REI (Recreational Equipment Incorporated) stating that I had not used my dividend yet (which is a cash back bonus from purchases made the previous year), and that in addition to that, for being an email subscriber I could get an additional 25% off my purchase on selected items. So, I headed to REI the next day to search out their selections of backpacks. I found a Jan Sport that I really liked, but still didn't feel like I was going to be under my budget (and surely a backpack like this would not be on the 25% off list). I asked the clerk to double check the price for me since it wasn't marked, and I only found one backpack in the color black - there were plenty of the other colors, but I wanted the black one. He checked, and I was relieved to find that it was $25 less then the others since it was the only one of that color. So, I decided it would be in my budget and preceded to check out. Well, I was excited upon check out when I learned that the cashier decided to give me the 25% off discount. Thanks to the sale price, my dividend earnings, and the 25% off, I only spent $15 dollars on a $115 backpack. Pretty sweet, huh?

Well, I just wanted to share with you my excitement from last week in getting prepared to leave. I spent a little time cleaning out some things in my room, and will need to spend some more time on it next week, but this week I am enjoying having my nephews staying with me. I will update you next time on all our adventures from this week.

Update

Hey again! It's official...... I have my new passport and visa, and my flights are coming together, so I will be ready to go in a month. It's hard to believe that I will be leaving in a month from now. I am definitely excited and a little bit nervous too. I think it is always a little nerve-wracking when you go to a new place that you are unfamiliar with, but I also know that I adapt well in new situations too, so that makes it easier.

My time in Florida comes to an end tomorrow, but I have had a great time while being here. My family and I spent the 4th of July week at the beach, and when my brother and sister-in-law had to leave after the weekend, we kept my nephews the rest of the week. Mom, dad and I had a great time with them and we all have some great memories. My favorite memory of Drew for the week was hearing him remind me that I lost to him 3 times in the card game Go Fish! And my favorite memory of Ethan for the week was when he asked Grandma what was for dessert, and she asked why he thought we were having dessert, and he said: "Because we always have dessert when we are at Grandma's. You spoil us!" I just love those boys!!

I am also very thankful for the time I have had to see many of you while I have been in Florida. It is always great seeing you and being able to catch up on what has been going on in your life. I am also looking forward to the opportunities I will get to see many of you in Georgia throughout the next month. Everyone of you are very special to me and hold a special place in my heart.

Well, I look forward to checking in again next week; until then I hope you all have a wonderful week.

Checking Things Off The List

Hey everyone! I am back to blogging and looking forward to keeping you updated on the newest details of my journey.

I have been in Florida for 2 weeks now and have 1 more week here before I head back to Georgia to pack and do some spring cleaning (figured mom and dad wouldn't mind storing my things a few more years, but that I wouldn't leave so much stuff with them if possible). It is amazing how much stuff I have accumulated over the years, and did not realize it until recently.

Well, another exciting thing, that I can check off my To Do List, is that I now have my new passport and my visa is currently being sent FedEx to arrive tomorrow. So, that is one huge relief of having those 2 items.

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July, and I will be checking in with you again soon.