SFT'S TRAVEL, MORTGAGE FREEDOM, 101 AND LIFE GOALS

DAY 331-SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

2012-03-04T17:36:00.000Z

Hi Everyone!

I do hope you are having a great weekend. I wish to invite anyone to join in the Sunday Night Chit Chat session. I really look forward to hearing what people have been up to each week.

SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

Linking up to Carla http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/
for Sunday Night Chit Chat

It's time to chat!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT AM I.............................

READING?

Well I've just finished The Help by Kathryn Stockett. I heard about this book a couple of years ago and wanted to read it ever since. Of course the film was Oscar nominated.

It is a fantastic read and shocking to think it relates to a time only 50 years ago! It helped improve my terrible knowledge of American History. There is a strong story line and great characterisation, which I love.
I would highly recommend it and I give it 9 out of 10.

Now I'm reading another recommendation: COASTLINERS BY JOANNE HARRIS. Joanne is a British writer, author of Chocolat (you may have seen the film with the delicious Johnny Depp in it?)

On the tiny Breton island of Le Devin in France, life has remained almost unchanged for over a hundred years. For generations, two rival communities, the wealthy La Houssiniere and the improvished village of Les Salants, have fought for control of the islands only beach.

When Mado, a spirited local girl, returns to Les Salants after a ten-year absence, she finds her home threatened, both by the tides and machinations of a local entrepreneur. Worse the community is suffering from an incurable loss of hope.

Mado is not so easily discouraged. Dogged by prejudice from the superstitious villagers, she is forced to enlist the help of Flynn, an attractive drifter.

WATCHING?

HOMELAND-3rd EPISODE

WILD AT HEART

RECORDING:

3rd Episode of Upstairs, Downstairs

COOKING:
We've been to my parents for Sunday lunch so we've had a day off from cooking.
This weekend we've been menu planning for March.

As it's warmer our neighbours' hens are laying again so we are enjoying cooking with the beautiful eggs. I'm looking forward to having a boiled egg each evening for my tea!

LOOKING FORWARD TO:
My niece has a day off school on Tuesday so she's coming in to help.
Mothers Day with my Mum!
Our anniversary break.
My Easter Holiday.

THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

My health, family and friends.

Mr Sft.

Primroses and Snowdrops!

ARE YOU JOINING IN THE CHIT CHAT?

Sft x

Thank you to everyone who left a comment about yesterday's post. :

DAY 330-MONTHLY FINANCIAL UPDATE

PIECE BY PIECE: Financially we are aware of curved balls that may come. I suppose the pension increase is one of those. At least we've got a good chance of paying off our mortgage before the increases start.

Sounds like your clothes dryer has been a curved ball for you too: a necessity you can't do without. I hope your new one lasts as long as your old one, 22 years service is amazing. Fantastic news about your additional trip savings. And your sealed pot is being filled up nicely.

THEANNE, Thanks for your support. Sounds like your trip savings are mounting up nicely. Looking forward to hearing more about your big girls camera. Although I have to say you do wonders with your present one.

MUM, I feel lucky that we should be able to afford the new pension payments. I'm not so happy working for longer. But you are right, we are in a good position.

Why did you carry on working for longer?

FRAN, Thanks for your support (as always). Private tuition sounds like a good plan to top up your income. May I ask when you're planning on retiring?

JO, We are so looking forward to going under 10k with our mortgage. Due to the £200 I think I will now have to work an extra year.

JANE, Sounds like you have a good pension plan in Canada. 2 years to go is fantastic. If you are living simply on PEI then a reduced pension should go along way. What about Michael? Will he retire too?

ANNE, I love it when people say how much they are enjoying their retirement! You seem to be living comfortably on your pensions and saving some too, that's brilliant!

MATTHEW, The state pension is separate to my teacher pension. I pay into my teacher pension each month and my employer (my school pays in a larger chunk too). It's a good pension, teachers are very lucky. Hopefully we will still beable to pay off our mortgage this year.

LAURA: Thanks for your support (as always). We are delighted with our mortgage freedom progress. Can't wait to go under 10k!

DAY 330-MONTHLY FINANCIAL UPDATE

2012-03-03T14:21:00.001Z

Hi Everyone!

Thank you for all your kind words about our anniversary break. We are so looking forward to it.

It's a beautiful Spring day. Almost warm enough to sit outside.

I have been gazing at the Snowdrops and Primroses in our cottage garden.

Now it's time for our Monthly Financial Update

Mortgage Freedom
We have paid off £554 of our mortgage this month.
This mean we have now paid off £183,274.

SO OUR REMAINING MORTGAGE IS NOW: £11726!

Trip to Africa

Cost of trip:
We have now paid £3546 of £4728. 75% is paid off.

Visas, Tipping and Insurance:
We now have saved £300 of £330 needed . Mr Sft is hoping to get £30 from an IT job which mean we've reached our goal.

Camera Savings
We now have saved £182 of £220 needed. Mr Sft is hoping to get £10 from an IT job so after that £28 to find.

My Pension

The Bad News: I have to pay an extra £200 ish per month towards my pension.
The Good News: These extra payments do not begin for another 2 years.

This gives a reprieve as I thought these would begin next month (our new Financial year).
When the payments start-we hope to be mortgage free with some savings behind us.

I was hoping to just work another 8 years but not sure now.

I may now retire at 50 instead. Then I will have worked as a teacher for 22 years.

I can't claim my teacher's pension until 55 at the earliest so our savings will have to stand in for those 5 years.

DAY 324- WE'VE GONE AND DONE IT! OUR ANNIVERSARY TREAT

2012-02-26T18:30:00.001Z

I know I have just posted my Sunday Night Chit Chat...

And I wrote about planning an anniversary treat for us (3 years of bliss).

Well we've gone and done it and booked a night away here! :

Name: The Swan Hotel

Where: Lavenham, Suffolk, CO10 9QA

Official rating: AA 4 stars, two AA rosette Gallery Restaurant

Cost: Rooms from £125 B&B per double/twin room midweek, £145 weekend

Contact: Tel: 01787 247477 www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk

Why go there? A hotel rich with history and character is a plus point in any weekend break. This 15th-century half-timbered hotel sits close to narrow streets dotted with traditional village shops and countless tea rooms. The historic village of Lavenham, once a thriving hub of the old wool and cloth trade, is tucked away in Suffolk’s rural heartland. There are more than 300 listed buildings – many are crooked cottages housing boutiques, craft shops and galleries. The Swan has been a hostelry for nearly 600 years and it takes pride in its past: medieval paintings and tapestries hang on the walls and the smell of burning embers smoulders throughout the deceptively large, higgledy-piggledy building. Board games and books rest in the lounge and there are places to curl up and read the papers by the fire.

Why we like it: The vaulted Gallery Restaurant serves tasty modern dishes, locally sourced where possible, including a medley of flaky fish pie with lobster ravioli, lean duck breast and quality Suffolk cheese. Friendly waiters from around the world come together under the beamed ceiling and the pianist on the Minstrel’s Gallery (wooden balcony) does her best to help you unwind with golden oldies such as Moon River.

The simple, rustic decor and informalities are immediately inviting, and the warm welcome extends to the bedroom, where hand-made chocolates sit on the pillows of the comfortable beds. The soft reds and dusty golds of our room were broken up by dark oak beams smooth enough to run your hand over. The hotel is full of old-fashioned charm – it even rolled out the red carpet for a woman’s 90th birthday. All 51 rooms are different – some have bespoke four-poster beds, others original fireplaces. Duck and dive past ‘Mind Your Head’ signs tacked on to wonky walls, soak up Suffolk ale while taking in the World War II memorabilia in the historic oak bar and sit in pretty al fresco areas on sunny days.

DON'T WORRY WE HAVEN'T SUDDENLY LOST THE PLOT...Well not entirely. I did my research and found a deal, so for £90 each (I know, I know) we get:

to check into our classic bedroom at 2.30pm

Then sit in the lounge and enjoy afternoon tea (a slimmed down version of this!)

At 7.00pm we have a dinner reservation in the Gallery Restaurant. We'll enjoy a 3 course dinner-just drinks to pay for.

Then the next morning we are treated to a full English Breakfast.

We've rejigged our finances a bit to afford this and it is a massive treat. But not one we'll ever forget.

Sft x

DAY 324-SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

2012-02-26T15:29:00.000Z

Hi Everyone!

I'm back after being A.W.O.L from blogging.

And, what joy! Spring like weather has appeared in my part of England and I feel like I've been reborn.

We've enjoyed blue skies and high temperature for February.

We have snow drops, irises and primroses flowering in the garden, which is delightful.

Mr Sft and I have been for a walk this morning. We heard such birdsong. I loved listening to a Robin and Mr Sft was enchanted by a Skylark hoovering over a field (his absolute favourite bird).

I do feel so lucky living with the countryside on my doorstep.

I will update my challenges next weekend but things are going well and everything is still on track.

How have you spent the day?

SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

Linking up to Carla http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/
for Sunday Night Chit Chat

It's time to chat!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT AM I.............................

READING?

I've just finished THE BIRTH OF VENUS. Thanks to Jane for recommending it. http://lifebeginsatretirement.blogspot.com/
It really gives you a flavour of what life was like in 15th Century Florence, Italy. I would recommend it to anyone for that reason. The story itself starts strongly and continues to grip you. The last part was slightly weaker I felt, but having said that I still couldn't put it don't and finished at 1am this morning. I would give it 8 out of 10.

Now I'm reading another recommendation: THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett

WATCHING?

HOMELAND-2ND EPISODE
Even my mother is gripped (although she has a huge crush on Damien Lewis)

WILD AT HEART
WE'VE FOLLOWED THIS SERIES FOR YEARS-It's about the family of a British Vet working IN SOUTH AFRICA. It's light hearted fun and we love the character Duplessy! (he's looking at the lion in the photo) He's hilarious!

RECORDING-UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS-showing the beginning of World War II

LISTENING TO?

Not much at the moment..

COOKING?

Homemade Veggie Shepherds pie! Yum!

LOOKING FORWARD TO?

-My Easter Holiday-We break up on the 21st March and return on April 16th (Children 18th)-3 and a half weeks of bliss!
-Planning our anniversary celebration.
-Planning a few nice days out during my Easter Holiday.
AND AFRICA OF COURSE! 5 months to go!

THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

My health, family and friends.
Mr Sft.
Beautiful Spring Weather!

ARE YOU JOINING IN THE CHIT CHAT?

Sft x

Thank you to everyone who left a comment about Monday's post. :

DAY 318-THE COUNTRYSIDE REMEMBERED-HORSE POWER

I will post another extract from the book this week.

Northern Living Allowance: I bet you treasure your photo of your grandpa's ploughman Bill with his shire horses Bonny and Prince. Dapple gray shire horses sound really unusual too. I did think that about Toby when I saw the photo in the book.

Jane (and Chris): I think my Mum and Dad will love the book as they both grew up in the countryside. Hope you can get hold of a copy too.

Mrs Thrifty: We loved the Call The Midwives seires. My MIL has just lent me copies of the book it was adapted from so I'm looking forward to reading it.

Theanne: Shire Horses are enormous! And powerful so I agree that the ploughman must have been so skilled too.

Silversewer: What lovely memories you must have of your Uncle's Shire Horses. They sound wonderful. Gentle giants. Do you have any photos of you riding?

Suze: I'm so glad your sealed pot has been tracked down! And it's intact.

Jo: We also loved the Victorian and Edwardian Farm series. Just fascinating. Upstairs, Downstairs was good last week but I still love Downtown Abbey more.

Jane: A ploughman was extremely skilled to make those amazing furrows. They really were beautiful. Lots of pubs (drinking inns) in the UK are called THE PLOUGH as a tribute to this way of life.

DAY 318-THE COUNTRYSIDE REMEMBERED-HORSE POWER

2012-02-20T22:12:00.002Z

Hi Everyone!

I thought I'd share some of the photos and text from my treasured book:

The Countryside Remembered

HORSE POWER

The ploughman's job was a highly skilled one. In the photograph below, the perfect rhythm of the team of horses-Darky, Toby and Nobby-has been caught as they 'dance' on the headland, turning for the next run down a field near Gravesend in Kent.

The reversible plough, used here, turned the soil one way on the outward trip and the other way on the return trip, producing a more even surface than the open furrows associated with ordinary ploughing.

Below: A windswept plough-team in Dumbartonshire.

Below: Here, at Berwick-on-Tweed some beautifully drawn ridges are being rowed up with a riding plough, ready for drilling with swede.

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

Day 317: Sunday Night Chit Chat

Lonestarsky: My bulbs are starting to open but I'm a novice gardener and I wish I'd planted them closer together, as they look a bit spaced apart. Still I can cram them together next year. That's the great thing about bulbs, you can use them each year.

Bryallen: Hope you like the extract from the book. Have to be really careful with it as it's a gift! I find it really hard to know what to buy my dad, so when I see something like this I am thrilled!

Cornwall in Spring is just magical. We went there on honeymoon and loved the wild (Bryallen) primroses and violets. Happy memories.....

Fran: Snowdrops on your deck would look wonderful!

I really enjoyed the first episode of Upstairs, Downstairs. Did you?

Jane: Hope Michael's feeling better.

Jo: Our primroses are like yours, in constant bloom. Poor things! I really enjoyed the first episode of Upstairs, Downstairs. Did you?

Theanne; Will be looking up Picnik headers. Thanks for sharing.

I bet you can't wait for your key west trip. I'm looking forward to all the photos.

Laura; We watched Homeland tonight and it didn't disappoint. Damian Lewis was amazing and I can't wait for the next episode.

Badpenny: I really enjoyed the first episode of Upstairs, Downstairs. Did you?

Susan: Hope the large photos aren't too much of a problem! I love them as they remind me of Namibia!

Carla: That was the last episode of the Midwives. But it's been really popular and I'm sure they'll make a new series.

Gill: I wonder, do you get a lot of BBC programmes in Canada? I'm sure you'd love the Midwives programme.

Daffodil: I love Spring flowers too. Glad you like the photos. I'll try to change them regularly. Hope they are not TOO BIG!

DAY 317-SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

2012-02-19T15:08:00.001Z

Hi Everyone!

Thank you to everyone who has already entered the prize giveaway-See Day 316 (yesterday) for details.

Today has been a nice relaxing day with Mr Sft and my niece.

We got up and relaxed with breakfast.

Mr Sft went off to his computer job and got paid another £20 so our visa total is now £300! Yeah! £30 to go.

My niece and I went and had a look in the back garden: primroses and snowdrops are on the verge of blooming. I love spring flowers don't you?

We went and had a look at our strip of land-it's a bit messy from where we've cut up the wood. We're also storing about 15 wooden palettes there at the moment. Which will be cut up over time.

Then we started weeding our front garden. It didn't take long and a few people walking dogs passed along the lane.

Mr Sft and my niece are going to dig up the leeks for our lunch: Leek and Potato soup with homemade bread.

I'm laying the fire and doing a spot of ironing.

Later I'm going to do a spot more reading and make Christmas tags with my niece.

How have you spent the day?

SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT

Linking up to Carla http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/
for Sunday Night Chit Chat

It's time to chat!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT AM I.............................

READING?

I've just started this story, recommended by Jane at http://lifebeginsatretirement.blogspot.com/
Well it's certainly 'surprising' so far. I'm sure I'll get into it soon and really enjoy it.

WATCHING?

CALL THE MIDWIFE-
A 1950's 'true story' drama about midwives who work in a poor area of London. Very moving series.

UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS-New Series begins tonight on BBC1 AT 9pm
1939, the Second World War is about to begin.

The Upstairs characters are interesting but I love the Downstairs life of the servants best (like I do in Downtown Abbey). I think that is because my Granny was in Service, starting as a Scullery Maid and rising up to the top of the Servant Pile as Cook (to an Earl).

AND RECORDING (to watch when Niece has gone!)

LISTENING TO?

Not much at the moment..

COOKING?

Well I'm not cooking anything but Mr Sft and my niece are cooking homemade Leek and Potato soup as I write.

LOOKING FORWARD TO?

My home made soup!
Spending this evening with Mr Sft and my niece
AND AFRICA OF COURSE!

THANKFUL FOR TODAY?

A beautiful Spring day!
I do suffer from S.A.D so getting out in the garden is perfect for me!

ARE YOU JOINING IN THE CHIT CHAT?

Sft x

Thank you to everyone who left a comment about yesterday's post:

Day 316-PRIZE GIVEAWAY AND FINANCIAL UPDATES

BRYALLEN: I love my book: The countryside remembered. I am going to read a few sneaky pages a day. I thought I might photograph the photos for my blog, as I'm sure others will find it of interest.

Got to be careful as I have decided to give it to my Dad for Father's day. He doesn't 'read' now but likes photographs and has lived in the countryside all his life so this will be ideal for him. It even has a photo of Wheelwrights and it was a Wheelwright that inspired my dad to work with wood.

MORGAN:Your new sealed pot sounds great! Did you have a sneaky count when you transferred the contents?

ASTRA: The tin is very sweet!

We are delighted about the mortgage but I have to admit that we feel a bit like we are treading water at the moment.

But once school starts up time will fly and it will then be Spring and Easter and then before you know it Africa will arrive!

I know what you mean about the photo being huge. I wavered about changing it but that photo has such special memories, as a fellow romantic, you'd understand that wouldn't you? We went to Windhoek briefly. Namibia has to be one of my favourite countries, and I'm not surprised your Aunt misses the space.

KIM: Great that you're still reading my little blog. Thanks for your ongoing support. It means a lot to me.

ANGELA: Great to hear from you! We both loved our charity shop shopping and agreed the the messy ones were best for treasure hunting.

THEANNE: I am so excited about your forthcoming trip to Key West, that's what your sealed pot money is for isn't it?

We are very lucky with our charity shops in the UK that's for sure. Lovely things can be found. Looking forward to seeing the lamp!

The rain sounds good, does it bring the temperature down?

SUZE: Such amazing news about being debt free. You must be over the moon. Time to celebrate.

GILL: I did the same with my wedding bouquet, when Mr Sft and I got married. We are a very close family. Your comment about the snowdrops made me laugh out loud.

MATTHEW: It's a good picture to remind us of how amazing Namibia is. I do hope to go back one day. Twilight Eclipse was pretty good. My niece and I are hooked now so we'll see the saga through to the end I expect.

SANDRA: I post worldwide so I will include you in the draw. I do hope Spring has sprung in England.

LITTLEANNA: I know what you mean about the Japan book. I really want to do my background work before I go so I can make the most of every experience. The book was only 40p too!

I forgot to mention that I also bought some stuffing for a few beautiful cushions I have. I didn't have enough so asked if there was any more and there was! Yipee! £5 for a big bag of duplo is an amazing deal.

FRAN: Thanks for the good wishes, I will pass them on to my sister.

I am so pleased with my book: The countryside remembered. I am going to read a few sneaky pages a day. I thought I might photograph the photos for my blog, as you and others will find it of interest.

Good news that you can take a day off when you like!

MRS THRIFTY: We are really pleased with our financial progress. But hopefully not complacent.

Looking forward to your update at the end of the month.

Good to hear your doing some crafty bits today. We're making Christmas labels later.

I think you're going to be a good example for me, taking time out from school.

Have a great first day back.

SILVERSEWER: Oh, I am so pleased that you are using your prize tin for buttons. That is such a good idea. I use a very old tin with Devon Clotted Cream written on it. Probably belonged to a member of my long lost family at some point.
Oh and I got some stuffing for my blue cushions and they look amazing on my reading chair. My birthday cushion is now in the conservatory and looks fantastic.
I was also able to stuff my mum's cushion for MOTHERS DAY.

DAY 316-PRIZE GIVEAWAY AND WEEKLY FINANCIAL UPDATE

2012-02-18T22:13:00.003Z

Hi Everyone!

(ABOVE PHOTO OF ELIM DUNE, NAMIB DESSERT-MR SFT AND I CLIMBED THIS DUNE TO WATCH THE RED AFRICAN SUN SET..IT WAS MAGICAL!)

PRIZE GIVE AWAY

TO THE 144 PEOPLE WHO HAVE BECOME FOLLOWERS OF MY LITTLE BLOG I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THANK YOU BY HAVING A LITTLE GIVEAWAY:

I WILL DRAW THE WINNER ON SATURDAY 24TH MARCH SO THERE IS LOTS OF TIME TO ENTER.

All you have to do is leave a comment and if you leave more than 1 you will be entered more than once.

The prizes are:

A THRIFTED TIN-SHOWING A VICTORIAN STREET SCENE OUTSIDE FAMOUS UK STORE MARKS AND SPENCERS.

SIDE VIEW OF TIN

SANDWICH TRAY

GREETING CARDS

FINANCIAL UPDATE

MORTGAGE FREEDOM: 93% PAID £183,125 OF OUR £195,000 MORTGAGE-ONLY £11,875 LEFT!

AFRICA-COST OF TRIP: 48% PAID £2364 OF OUR £4869 TOTAL-£2505 LEFT

SPENDING MONEY SAVED UP

VISAS/INSURANCE/TIPPING: 84% SAVED OF £280 PAID OF OUR £330 TOTAL-£50 LEFT

This has been boosted by Mr Sft's IT support work. He is off tomorrow to do some more so we hope that this challenge is nearly over.

CAMERA SAVINGS: 46% £102 SAVED OF OUR £220 TOTAL-£118 LEFT

As you know we are aiming to save £55 from our low spend February challenge. We have made £27 from ebay so far and are still on track to save £30 from our grocery budget.

So that would leave us £61!

MY WEEKEND SO FAR!

My sister's wedding was lovely! We had a great meal, it was wonderful to see my sister so happy.

She has gone away for a honeymoon weekend and I am having a wonderful weekend with my niece.

We have been to our local town today, visiting the Charity (Thrifty/Op) shops there.

My niece loves them too. She bought buttons for her art project, lego bricks for her current Operation Christmas Child box (she fills so many each year) and a pretty sewing box.

My most amazing buy was a book called THE COUNTRYSIDE REMEMBERED. It has the most beautiful photos of the life and traditions of the British countryside (Horse drawn ploughs/Milking/Work in the fields/Gathering reeds and straw to thatch cottages/Rural skills-basketry and woodland craft/Rural traditions/Harvesting)

I bought a top for school, Books: vintage copies of Great Expectations and Huckleberry Finn,/A travellers guide to the Hisotry of Japan. Cards: 3 thank you cards/1 Mothers Day card/vintage M and S tin/a pretty painting in a frame of a cottage with it's beautiful garden.

This afternoon we went to put my sister's bouquet on my Grandmother's grave. It was pouring with rain by then but it was lovely to see the snowdrops out in the graveyard. We didn't stay long however.

Tonight we planned to see Wolverine but the DVD didn't work out (damm, no Hugh Jackman tonight!).

So we're watching Twilight Eclipse instead......

Hope you are all having a great weekend.

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about:

DAY 313: MY KIND OF HOLIDAY

MERI: Squirrels have great personalities don't they!

GILL: We often see a squirrel outside the classroom as we are surrounded by woods. I find it hard to compete sometimes and just let the pupils enjoy it!

FRAN: Oh, I'm so sorry you don't get a half term. That's too bad. When do you break up for Easter?

JO: Having a lovely time with my niece so far.

DANNIE: Nearly have all of my sponsorship money now.

Glad you like the Ultimate Life List so far...it's so tempting to keep adding and adding!

That kind of list has to be fluid, as we change and evolve too, don't we? The person I was when I was 30 is not the person I am 40.

I think I do suffer a little from SAD so the treading water feeling has been exaggerated by that I think. Once Spring properly arrives I know I'll feel a whole lot better.

DREAMER: I certainly have enjoyed every day of this week's holiday! Dreaming has been alot of fun to do!

MRS THRIFTY: Yes, squirrels are great characters aren't they! My parents love watching one who travels daily along their garden fence and then returns back again. I definitely agree with your motto:

WHAT IS THIS LIFE IF FULL OF CARE, WE HAVE NO TIME TO STAND AND STARE!

MAA: Lovely to hear from you. Thanks for your well wishes!

DAY 313-MY KIND OF HOLIDAY

2012-02-15T20:30:00.005Z

Hi Everyone!

This week is a Half Term holiday for schools in England.

I am mid way through and feel so much better than last week.

It didn't take spending lots of money to get me to a better place.

But it has taken spending special time with Mr Sft and my parents, getting lots of rest, taking pleasure in my hobbies (including reading books and blogs) and dreaming (dreams cost nothing, don't they?)

On Friday my sister is having her quiet wedding. My Niece is staying for 3 days.

Things will get busier but I want to have lots of fun with her.

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about Mr Sft being my Valentine (a slightly boozy SFT wrote that one, can't you tell!)

Thanks also for your comments about

DAY 312-MY ULTIMATE LIFE LIST

Scarlet: How funny that both you and I were reading Hardy as teenagers! Hardly the Twilight Saga is it?
I remember my Dad catching the Dawn Chorus the day after he retired...he said he'd been meaning to do it all his life and it was amazing! I think your Ultimate Life List would be a really interesting read.

Mary: Oh you do make me laugh! I think I'm happy with the travel goals on the list at the moment. But I would like to add some cultural goals as well.
I looked up your trip recommendations but they are too expensive for us unfortunately. They do look amazing, have a great time.
Have a fantastic time in Hawaii.

Sammyleia: So glad you enjoyed Japan, thanks for sharing your memories. Think we've got some good things on the list.

Fran: Would love to see your Ultimate Life List! How funny you have that quote too! Seems it was meant to be!

Matthew: Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm about Japan! When did you go? How long are the flights? I think we've got enough on the travel side of the list now, but may add more cultural and wildlife experiences.

Littleanna: Your inspiration collage sounds like a great idea, we should have more photos around the cottage. Tuscany sounds lovely to me!

Gill: It seems that everyone who has been to Japan has loved it! I bet your OH has some great stories to share.

DAY 312-MR SFT-MY VALENTINE

2012-02-14T19:48:00.002Z

My Dear Mr Sft

Remember our wedding day...listening to
Moon River...Our Song

Two drifters off to see the world
There's such a lot of world to see.....

We've after the same rainbow's end
It's waiting round the bend
My Huckleberry Friend
Moon River and Me...

Yours forever.

Sft x

DAY 312-CREATING AN ULTIMATE LIFE LIST-A 101 GOAL

2012-02-14T17:10:00.002Z

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails.

EXPLORE, DREAM, DISCOVER.

Mark Twain

Hi Everyone!

I am going to be totally honest with you, I feel like I am 'treading water' at the moment.

I see the prizes, they are not too far away now....

I know that in 5 months I will have a life enhancing trip to Africa.

I know that in 9 months we hope to be MORTGAGE FREE.

It's a case of keeping my mindset in the right place....

So I thought I'd concentrate on one of the best of my 101 goals....

TO CREATE AN ULTIMATE LIFE LIST.

AN ULTIMATE LIFE LIST runs along the same lines as a BUCKET LIST.

I came across it via Dannie http://myultimatelifelist.blogspot.com/

You really should take a look, Dannie is an inspiration, she does so much and gets the very most from her money.

I prefer it's name to bucket list. It speaks to me...saying 'you have a list to follow will give you the ultimate life experiences'.

I have decided to start working on my list now. It will lift my spirits and set the SFT dreamer free...

Like Dannie my list will be fluid. It will evolve according to my life.

Some things will be added, some taken away.

Some will be achieved, some in progress, some tucked away in the future..

THESE ARE MY AND MR SFT'S PRECIOUS DREAMS

Reaching my 40th birthday has given me food for thought.

As Ferris Buller (and dear Carla) know ....

LIFE MOVES PRETTY FAST....

So this is what we've come up with so far:

SFT'S ULTIMATE LIFE LIST....so far....:)

1. Save £15,000 a year towards our retirement

2. Plan an annual adventure with Mr Sft

3. Visit the temples in Kyoto,

Japan*

4. Gaze upon the majestic Mount Fuji

5. Fulfil a life's dream of seeing a Shinto Gate

6. Eat in a Japanese Sushi Bar

7. Ride on the Bullet Train

8. Visit a techno shop in Tokyo

9. See the beauty of C

anada-will expand-forming ideas from blogs etc..

10.Explore Austalia-will expand

11.Drive along the Great Ocean Road, Australia

12.See the Phantom of the Opera with my Mum

13.Go on a SHORT BREAK trip with my mum in 2013. In the past we've travelled by coach to Paris, Moselle Valley in Germany and Scotland. She is a great companion.

14. Hire a Camper Van to travel around some of the coastline of the UK

* Always wanted to go to Japan and have found a trip will fulfil all these dreams.

Glad I can share some of my ULTIMATE DREAMS WITH YOU!.............

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

DAY 311-SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT ON A SUNDAY

Jo: Hope you enjoyed watching your DVDs. Sometimes it's nice to save up a quality film for an afternoon. Especially in this weather, it's just perfect!

Gill: I think watching It's a wonderful life came about when we were lent the DVD in colour. Mr Sft hadn't seen it before and I was curious. But yes, Christmas time is best.

Patricia: Great post about your award, I enjoyed it and you really deserve it, you are always so supportive!

Scarlet: I haven't read Hard Times yet so I'll put that on the list. Thanks for the recommendation. I read alot of Hardy when I was younger, beautiful novels but heart breakingly sad...Jude the Obscure 'done because we were too many' will always haunt me I think.. Thanks for your support about the grocery budget.

Dannie: Am relaxing and dreaming about Japan alot! It's a place I've always wanted to go to! And Mr Sft wants to go there too! Result! I hope you get to read the whole of Great Expectations at some point, it's amazing! The BBC adaptation was good but some parts were altered and I didn't think that was necessary.

Littleanna: I always get a lump in my throat when I watch It's a wonderful life too. It's a good sign to have up, I like that idea. Have a great time at Centre Parcs with your nephew. Plenty to do there to keep him occupied and how lovely that your sister is having a respite, the South of France will do her the world of good!

Theanne: And HAPPY TUESDAY to you too!

Tinyholder: Great to hear you've saving up for your dreams. Would you like me to add you to the sealed pot list? Do you have a goal in mind?

Meri: I enjoy chit chat posts too, and learning what everyone is up to weekly. Great news on the sealed pot, we're adding bits and bobs...well Mr SFT more than me as it's low spend February.

Jane: Yep, Birth of Venus is next on the reading list, it may take me a little while but I'm sure I'll enjoy it. I wish we could purchase our fish locally but we don't live near enough to the coast. Your life is going to be truly amazing in PEI! Just day to day is going to be extraordinary and I for one can't wait for you guys to achieve your dreams. Our recipe includes prawns, smoked haddock, cod and loch salmon.

Fran: It's a wonderful life is definitely one of my favourite films too. Pete's got good taste. My parents were very interested to hear that Great Expectations was filmed in Tollesbury as was I, I love it there!

Mrs No Spend: I am feeling more rested, thanks. I had to put all blogs on my list to keep up. It's tough isn't it, if you've missed a few days.

A Blessed Life: I do like my sleep! Is your quote from Shakespeare, doesn't sound like Great Expectations?

Sammyleia: I was a bit naughty, joining in with chit chat on the Monday. I do find I have more to blog about on a Sunday, so I always forget! :) Hope you are feeling better and I'm really looking forward to your award replies. I just copy and paste all photos and pictures, including the award symbols. Right click over image. Click on copy. Then press ctrl and c together where you want the picture to go. I'm no expert as you can tell.

DAY 311-SUNDAY NIGHT CHIT CHAT (ON A MONDAY)

2012-02-13T13:43:00.006Z

Hi Everyone!

Oh, how I wish I was organised enough for the Sunday Night Chit Chat.

Lots of people take part (as you can see from my blog bar) including Carla http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/2012/02/sund.html

So here is my belated chit chat:

WHAT AM I.....

Reading

Well I've finished:

What did I think, well the parts I loved are full of old English countryside nostalgia.
But that was accompanied by heart wrenching, brutal and frankly wierd parts too.
I'm glad I read it and my vintage copy will go back on my bedside bookshelf.

I'm also reading

It's a lovely gentle read, set partly in Scotland. After this I will start the Birth of Venus (as recommended by Jane) and The Help (as recommended by lots of others-the film adaptation has been award nominated I see).

Watching

Well we had a very relaxing weekend. It's been so cold we spent afternoon's snuggling up in front of the log burner watching films and catch up TV.

We watched:

It's A Wonderful Life

(Mr Sft hadn't seen it before and I love James Stewart).

The Ghost
(starring Ewan McGregor and Pierce Brosnan). It was a clever film, Mr Sft particularly liked it.

Great Expectations

A BBC adaptation starring Gillian Anderson and Ray Winston. It was a good adaptation, beautifully shot and I loved revisiting my favourite novel of all time.

(Many years ago my family went for a Christmas walk and my nephew was very reluctant to go. So he and I walked together and I told him the story of Great Expectations in as much detail as I could to keep him occupied. He loved it and turned to me at the end in wonder saying 'Did you just make that up?'. LOL!)

The BAFTAs

Our own British Academy awards. The ARTIST swept the awards board. Felt sorry for old Brad Pitt.
Russell Crowe was a lout and Hugh Jackman was a huge added bonus.
Good to see Martin Scorcese becoming an Academy member too.

Listening to
Not too much at the moment...

Cooking

Fish Pie, yummy!

Happy to have accomplished this week
The end of term. It was very challenging, enough said.

Looking forward to
Valentines Day
My Sister's little wedding
My niece staying over

Thankful for today
Mr Sft
Getting some tricky school work out of the way
The rising temperature outside

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

DAY 310-MAKING PLANS AND CHALLENGE UPDATES

Jo: I've got my school work done today so now having a chill out. My body does need a rest, you're right.

Cheapchick: Sounds like you really are living the dream, Wow! Sounds like all your hard work paid off. Looking forward to following your journey to Vancouver Island!

A Blessed Life: Mr Sft also wakes up at normal time at the weekends.

Dannie: Really looking forward to getting new camera. Should manage it by end of March, all being well. So looking forward to making an Ultimate Life List.

Jane: Yes, 8am is a civilised time when on holidays. I like to wake up then. I find I only really switch off when I'm on a trip...how sad is that?

Gill: £60 does include cleaning products but not personal products. But we have alot of cleaning products stored up so not needing much at the moment.

DAY 310-MAKING PLANS AND CHALLENGE UPDATES

2012-02-12T14:25:00.001Z

Hi Everyone!

A BIG WELCOME TO CHEAPCHICK! Lovely of you to start following my blog! Hope you can leave a comment from time to time...I had a sneaky look at your blog and it looks sooo interesting.

My Half Term Holiday began yesterday. I have been rather run down recently so I decided to treat myself to a 'natural' wake up, which turned out to be 1'oclock in the afternoon! That's 15 hours of sleep, I must have been exhausted.

So I need to make some plans...The trouble with leading such a structured, timetabled life as a teacher is that during the holidays I feel like a life with no structure whatsoever. Fellow teachers out there might know what I mean...

But this would mean not getting anything done and wasting time....

101 Goals this week

Transfer notes from old copy of Birds of Southern Africa (SASOL book) to new copy (lovely Christmas present)

Print out and Annotate photos from trip to Malawi/Zambia

Good catch up of challenge buddies on Frugaldom

Extra Goals for the week
Finally watch the BBC adaptation of Great Expectations (my fav. novel ever!)

Walk daily-up lane if snow persists

Feed birds daily and watch to see which little feathered friends are about

Finish Cider with Rosie (so close)

Tidy cottage

Write to cousin in Australia

Write to friend in Australia

2 hours of school work Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.

Friday to Sunday-Niece to stay after my sister's wedding.

February Grocery Challenge Update

Our latest 'reward' vouchers have arrived from supermarket T*sco.

We have £30, mostly as a result of Mr Sft's petrol purchases and use of credit card. This will help hugely for next months Grocery challenge. We are hoping that by the end of March we should have reached our total for our Camera!

We also have 300 extra points if we use 'extra points' vouchers for cheese, cakes, sandwiches, home baking, soft drinks and m*lteasers chocolate. This is achievable and will go towards our next rewards!

29.01.12-£19.21 spent.

SO WE HAVE £40.79/£60.00 LEFT!

02.02.12-£4.99 spent=£24.09

so we HAVE £35.91/£60.00 LEFT!

04.02.12-£1.06 spent=£25.15

so we have £34.85/£60.00 LEFT!

12.02.12-£3.00 spent=£28.15

so we have £31.85/£60.00 LEFT!

Low Spend February 2012
Thanks to Carla for organising Feb Low Spend Challenge
http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/

1^st Feb- Nospend day

2^nd Feb--£4.99 spent on groceries

3^rd Feb-No spend day

4^th Feb-£1.06 spent plus £10 at pub

£16.05spent

5^th Feb-£29.50 spent on gifts/£5 spent oncharity donation

£50.55spent

6th Feb-No spend day

7th Feb-No spend day

8thFeb-£2.50 on sandwich for parents evening (should be reimbursed) Total spend£53.05

9^thFeb-£3.00 Treats for Friday Fairytale Party/£4.00 Evening Treats

10^thFeb- No spendday

11^thFeb- No spendday

12^thFeb-£3 spent on groceries £63.05

6 no spend days/ £31.85 spent on groceries/£31.20 on personal spending

Are you having a low spend February?

Are you keeping to a Grocery budget?

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about :

DAY 305-WHAT'S NEXT?-MAKING A 7 YEAR PLAN

Mrs Thrifty: Thank you for your kind words and support. I am so glad that you are making plans for mortgage freedom. So glad you're boiler is fixed in this cold weather. Our mortgage will have taken 9 years to pay off in total.

Tinyholder: Wow! Sounds like you are making huge life changes plans. You are so determined, I am sure that you will make it all happen. Good luck!

Scarlet: You made a crucial point in your comment about working until you drop. Sounds like J and you are making the right choices for your future. I really want to give up teaching for the same reason, it leaves very little of me left.

Sandra: Thanks for your support. I will be combining our 7 year plan with an Ultimate Life List. Hopefully that will be a new direction for my blog in 2013

Theanne: Thanks for your encouragement and you are right, we've got to do what is right for us!

Dannie: Thanks for all your support. Hope we can combine our 7 year plan with an Ultimate Life List in 2013. Thanks for inspiring me.

Gill: Thanks for your encouragement Gill.

Jane: 2.5 years left of your plan! Wow! That's amazing! I think you made such an important point: more living for less is definitely my choice too. We live on a lot less than what we make and have never spend our full income. That is definitely the key, I think.

Laura: You are quite right, we do only get one shot at this world. Thanks for all your support. You are such an inspiration.

Silversewer: I think not having children makes a huge difference to our plans. Absolutely. And it does make a difference if you find your Mr Wonderful (M and E). Thanks for all your continued support.

Becky Bee: Love your quote, I have put it in my blog header now.

Jo: Thanks for your support. You always talk sense!

Lonestarsky: I think reaching the big 40 last December made me really sit up and take notice of life speeding past. Got to reach out and grab it!

Aubrey Rose: Even if I can retire at 48, I won't be retiring from life, I will be embracing it!

Fran: I don't want to stop enjoying my job. Obviously there are parts that all of us teachers loathe but I love the joy of the classroom still and I want to leave on a high.

Sandra: Thanks for your thoughts about buying a second home...very interesting.

Betty: A second property would provide an income for sure.

The Smiths: I AM LOVING YOUR BLOG! What an amazing life you lead in wonderful Cornwall. I could definitely enjoy renting somewhere else and enjoying a new life experience.

J: Thanks for the tag!

Matthew: See what you've started! Only joking! Are you up for sharing your plans on your blog too?

Astra: I think you are so wise about making dreams happen...lets hope the Gods continue to smile on us!

DAY 309-ITS AWARD SEASON!

2012-02-11T16:30:00.001Z

Hi Everyone!

A big welcome to new followers: The Smiths (loved that band) and Judi!

Today I'm going to say a HUGE thank you to FRUGAL DOWN UNDER http://frugaldownunder.blogspot.com/ and EGE DENNE http://www.egedenne.com/ for the awards I've been given.... I LOVE your blogs!

So here are the Liebster Rules:

1.Say thanks to the amazing blogger who awarded your liebster and link back to their blog!

See above

2. Choose 5 fantastic blogs and leave a comment on their blog letting them know.

http://bumblebeesandappletrees.blogspot.com/

http://sandraslifeatrosedale.blogspot.com/

http://podesigns.blogspot.com/

http://myultimatelifelist.blogspot.com/

http://www.sammyleiamoneysaver.com/

(They must have under 200 followers)
3. Post the award on your blog. (Right click on the award image and save it to your hard-drive and then upload it to your blog).
4. Enjoy your Liebster award
5. And best of all – have fun and spread the leib!

I am also going to say a GIGANTIC THANK YOU! to ASTRA http://ajourneytoadream.blogspot.com/

The rules of the prize are:

Thank the person who gave you the award
Link back that person
Select blogs that you've recently discovered (and think deserve it!) and nominate them
Tell the person who nominated you 7 things about yourself

http://frostatmidnight.blogspot.com/

http://thatbritishwoman.blogspot.com/

http://craftthriftandlove.blogspot.com/

http://chelmarshchunterings.blogspot.com/

7 THINGS ABOUT MYSELF:

1. I am the youngest of 3. I have 1 older brother and 1 older sister.

2. I learnt to read when I was 4 (Enid Blyton was my favourite author) and still love it! One of my greatest pleasures is hearing the children in my class read and helping them progress. I hope I help encourage a love of reading in them to!

3. I did not travel aboard until I was 11, but went on holiday each year to beautifully North Devon. Now I have visited about 50 countries (I haven't counted recently).

4. I have lost count of the number of times I have watched the film Shawshank Redemption, it pulls me in all kinds of emotional directions and leaves in a life affirming place. It is BRILLIANT!

5. I am a creative person, I have written many children's plays and love to direct their acting in school productions. I love going to the theatre, local and London.

6. I LOVE AFRICA...particularly Southern African, It keeps pulling me back.... It helps that I can cope marvellously in hot weather and terribly in cold.

7. I love wildlife and countryside, in the UK and other parts of the world.

LASTLY a MASSIVE THAN YOU!

to JANE http://lifebeginsatretirement.blogspot.com/

and J http://talesofablendedfamily.wordpress.com/2012/02/09/tag-youre-it/

WHO HAVE TAGGED ME!

Here are the rules:

#1 - Post these rules.

#2 - Answer the 11 questions from the person who tagged you.

#3 - Create 11 new questions for the people you tag.

#4 - Tag 11 people and link them to your post.

#5 - Let them know that you tagged them.

JANE'S QUESTION'S:

1. Describe yourself in seven words.

supportive/passionate/motivated/disciplined/undisciplined/creative/dreamer

2. Why did you decide to start a blog?

I followed Money Saving Expert, then it got a large crowd, so the lovely NYK started Frugaldom. She and a few others had blogs to show their progress, so I started one too. It was really to cover 101 goals, a challenge Dannie followed too but mine has extended into Mortgage Freedom and frugal living too.

http://frugaldom.myfreeforum.org/

3. What is your favorite kind of cheese?

Cheddar, I am a true Brit.

4. What keeps you awake at night?

I sleep like a log.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?

I would like to be more patient. I am only patient in my role as a teacher, have infinite patience there.

6. Here's a question from Michael that he likes to ask me on the phone: "What are you wearing right now?"

A tracksuit!

7. Tell us something about the person who tagged you!

Jane is an inspiration to me, we have lots in common and I love her goals, positivity and Michael..everyone should have a Michael to go hiking and camping with!

8. Stretch out your arm and tell us what is the closest thing to you right now?

Mr Sft! No surprise there!

9. What's your favorite flavour of icecream? Do you lick your icecream or bite right into it?

Walnut and Maple Syrup.

10. Do you prefer the truth or a white lie that doesn't hurt your feelings?

White lies are ok

11. Do you like your life right now? Why or why not?

Yes, I like my life. Mr Sft is my soul mate and we have so much to look forward to.

AND J'S QUESTIONS:

1. If you could have 3 people over for a dinner party, who would they be (and a short why)?

Mr Sft

Hugh Jackman (yes, he is totally gorgeous, but he's a great man and so much fun)

Sir David Attenborough (Wildlife Genius)

2. Who is your favourite author and why?

Charles Dickens, he wrote Great Expectations my favourite book.

3. What activities/clubs did you join in High School and what was your favourite

Drama Club, I performed in a few school productions.

4. Is there a movie that you can watch over and over again and never get sick of it? Why?

Shawshank Redemption

5. Do you have any hobbies? Tell us about them.

Walking, travelling, reading, learning, photography (in my own bubbling way), wildlife, financial freedom

6. Is there someone from your past that you have lost touch with but would like to have them back in your life…who is it and why?

Not really.

7. Tell us about your guilty pleasure

Watching Coach Trip-A reality TV programme about a group of people travelling around Europe.

8. Do you watch tv? What are your 3 favourite shows (and if you don’t watch tv, tells us why you don’t)

I do watch some TV. Favourite shows:

Wildlife Programmes

Downtown Abbey

Hustle- about a team of con artists.

9. What did you want to be when you grew up?

Anything but a teacher. My dad always said I should be a teacher. So I fought against it until I was about 25, then did a course to teach English as a foreign language, loved teaching so much I gave in to my destiny.

10. Why did you start blogging?

SEE answer above.

11. Who do you most admire in your life? Tell us something about that person.

Mr Sft, he is the best friend anyboddy could have!

WHO HAVE I TAGGED:

http://frugaldom.blogspot.com/

http://abreathoffreshair-mary.blogspot.com/

http://fran-bonnieofclyde.blogspot.com/

http://silversewer.blogspot.com/

http://talesfrombeyondthenook.blogspot.com/

http://frugalityuk.blogspot.com/

http://dreamer-dreamingofasimplelife.blogspot.com/

http://frugaldownunder.blogspot.com/

http://jo-throughthekeyhole.blogspot.com/

http://ournewlifeinthecountry.blogspot.com/

http://ajourneytoadream.blogspot.com/

MY QUESTIONS:

1. Where is your favourite place in the world? Tell us why?

2. What person has inspired you most?

3. Who would be your favourite 3 dinner guests (I like that question!)

4. What makes you contented and happy?

5. City, coast or country?

5. What are you dreaming of right now?

6. What is the most delicious food in the world?

7. What is your best read?

8. What makes a perfect night in?

9. What was your favourite subject at school?

10. Describe your most cherished photograph?

11. What impulse paid off?

Sft x

DAY 305-WHAT'S NEXT?-MAKING A 7 YEAR PLAN

2012-02-07T21:52:00.002Z

Hi Everyone!

I am very lucky to have received 2 liebster awards from FRUGAL DOWN UNDER and EGE DENNE. I haven't forgotten, but am giving who I pass them on to some thought.

Also ASTRA has nominated me for a Versatile Award. What an honour! I will blog about this too soon.

I have Parents Evenings this week so I'll be away for a day or so. Hope that's ok.

Matthew from New Zealand left a comment yesterday:

I've got to ask the question though...as you're so close to paying off the biggest financial commitment you have, what's next? Do you hope to travel more often, or save up for something else? I'd be interested to know as I've been thinking about it with my situation.

Good question Matthew!

Well firstly I don't want to tempt fate....a lot can happen between now and December.

But say we can pay off the mortgage by then.

Say Mr Sft and I keep healthy, happy and in employment.

Then I would plan to work for the next 7 years.

We might just about be able to pay our bills with what Mr Sft earns. We live on very little, apart from our travels.

I could provide spending money and we would save the rest of my money.

So we could save £24,000 a year. Over 7 years that would make £168,000.

If we carrying on with travel dreams we may need £28,000 of that ( that sounds shocking doesn't it?).

If I could retire at 48 then we would live on Mr Sft's wages with the remaining £140,000 as a safety net.....

I won't get my (reduced) pension until I'm 65 now so that will be 17 years later. That will give us about £8,000 a year to live on until then.

These plans may sound bonkers...... Or self indulgent...I really don't mean to offend anyone out there who is in a different position...these really are just dreams.....

Another idea is to buy a second property and rent it out...not sure I'm brave enough to do that...

What do you think?

Are these foolish dreams?

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

Laura: An online mortgage account is fantastic, but I do like a surprise in the post too!

A Blessed Life: Thanks for your support about our mortgage. I do feel a bit indulgent and dare I say selfish, talking about future plans. I come from parents who have always struggled and am used to us having to live very frugal.

Oh, by the way I would gladly swap my little cottage and the snow for the sun and a sit on your veranda at the moment. I'm not coping very well with being cold all the time.

Theanne: Thanks for your support about the mortgage. Oh I love that you search for properties in England, I never thought of doing that. What lovely daydreaming that would provide. I have looked at properties in Cornwall before.

Jo: I think we might come in on schedule for the mortgage as we have Africa to pay for too. But we are thrilled we've had good luck recently.

Rainbowchild: Congrats on overpaying the mortgage! That must feel amazing!

Sandra: Glad you liked the Winter Wonderland photos. We are expecting more snow! I wish I could keep warm at school!

Karen: Thank you for all your support! I think we can be mortgage free if all goes well, we are very focused. As for the rest of those dreams..they may just be dreams...

Mary: Thank you and Bob for your support! That means alot. We do keep our eyes on the financial prizes that's for sure! Have a fantastic time in HAWAII, can't wait to see the photos.

Betty: Thanks for your support Betty!

Scarlet: Congrats on the mortgage overpayment. That's amazing. Sorry if this post has been self indulgent...I'm not trying to offend.

Greenworld: Thanks for your comment and support.

Jane: I do like the progress bar for the mortgage now, it looks so close to the finish! :)

Northern Living Allowance: Thanks for your support.

Fran: The letter did feel like finding a forgotten tenner. Yes!

Astra; Thanks for the award, it means alot coming from you!

DAY 304-MORTGAGE FREEDOM-MORE GOOD LUCK!

2012-02-06T18:09:00.005Z

Hi Everyone!

A big welcome to NEVER TOO OLD! Lovely that you are following my little blog. I do hope you can leave a comment from time to time!

We have received our ANNUAL MORTGAGE STATEMENT in the post.

I always forget that we are actually paying a little bit of our mortgage off with our MONTHLY PAYMENTS.

The good news is that last year we paid £405 so that has been deducted from our remaining total.

We now have paid off

£183,125

AND HAVE

£11, 875 LEFT TO PAY!

THIS IS A GREAT STEP TOWARDS MORTGAGE FREEDOM!

Sft x

Thank you for all your comments about yesterday's post:

DAY 303: WINTER WONDERLAND

Theanne: I did have a lovely weekend!

Fran: My niece and I love misbehaving! Neither of us need encouragement. Our school NEVER closes (we once had only 10 children in and that many staff!). But we all came home earlier. I was due to have Parents Evening but we've re-scheduled.

Frugal Down Under: So love our little cottage, we were very lucky to get it with a little land and in such a lovely location. Count my blessings every day. Wish we could swap our weather for a day, I'd love some sunshine.

Kim: It's lovely to see the cottage and surrounding countryside in different seasons but I have to say that Spring is my favourite season as I love the wild primroses that grow down the lane. Just beautiful!

Dreamer: I do like pottering, gentle, home weekends..Can't believe there is ANY part of Scotland that isn't under snow!

A Blessed Life: I am emotionally attached to our cottage because I've always loved little cottages, with climbing flowers but never DREAMED we'd ever live in one. It took a leap of faith but we are here and feel so lucky.

Bryallen: Aspinals cider is the best (IMO), not as sickly as others. We are so lucky it's sold in the pub 1 mins walk down the lane. Have you had any snow in Cornwall yet?

Mary: No I wish I did live in the West Country! It's so beautiful! I live in the South East of England, about 30 miles from London, it's commuter heaven here and the property is amongst the most expensive in the country (outside of London).

When are you off to Hawaii? Have you been before? Mr Sft would love to one day, it's a volcano thing..I do understand after seeing amazing volcanoes in Java.

I don't think I ever left my 1st childhood, that's why I love spending time with my class.

Mrs Thrifty: Yes, I agree with not liking the cold. It's nice to get school work out of the way but I sometimes find life just takes over at the weekend.

Jo: It is nice to get jobs out of the way and have a proper weekend. I love the photos of the cottage in the snow.

Dannie: I think sometimes I want to relax TOO much at the weekend. Then I don't want to return to school! LOL! But I've got to work for the time being. If we are mortgage free by December I might hatch a 7 year plan to retire early! 48 sounds about right!

Suze: Yes, Sunday was lovely and quiet, a perfect pottering day! My favourite.

Matthew: I think there are quite a few big kids out there like us, who enjoy making snow or sand angels.

Sammyleia: It won't be long before you're in the UK again..it will feel like coming home :)

Piecebypiece: Yes, the snow made the cottage seem quite magical. Sounds like you've picked up some great books from the library. I read Carousel a few years ago and enjoyed it. Have you read WINTER SOLSTICE by R. Pilcher that's wonderful?

DAY 303-WINTER WONDERLAND

2012-02-05T14:39:00.001Z

Hi Everyone!

Yesterday's readathon was great fun and for a great cause! I also got to complete one of my 101 goals-raising money for charity. I got about two thirds of the way through my book as I a day dreamy reader and if the text has captured my imagniation I drift away into my thoughts, only to return to the story minutes later.

Cider with Rosie was a brilliant choice. It is full of nostalgia for a day gone age and quite brutal and alarming at times...not quite Larkrise to Candleford!

I would recommend reading it as it's well written, gives glimpses of an important part of social and countryside history in England in the early 20th century. It will make you smile, sigh, laugh out loud and your heart will ache...

After my readathon I welcomed my sister and niece for a stay over. My sister is remarrying in a few weeks time so it was nice to spend time together. Mr Sft joined us too.

First we watched a film which all of us could enjoy: 17 AGAIN with Matthew Perry (fortunately for only a small part) and the talented Zach Efron. We all liked the story line and my niece liked Zach. Result!

By then it was snowing quite heavily so we wrapped up warm and walked down the lane to our local pub. We were the only people in there except a couple of regulars and the landlady. I like it that they serve delicious Suffolk Aspinal's cider on tap. We drank a toast to my sister's future happiness but due to the weather left to return to the cottage.

I coaxed my niece into joining me in making a SNOW ANGEL. This is ANOTHER one of my 101 challenges and was great, childlike fun! You lie on the ground and move legs and arms backwards and forwards, making an angel shape. We did it just outside the cottage, the shapes were great and we got cold and wet but then run into the warmth. We didn't use coal yesterday evening as the snow made the temperature warmer than previous days but we did stick a large log on before we wandered to the pub and it was still burning upon our return.

After more drinks we settled down to watch The Full Monty! They then snuggled down on the sofa bed.

our cottage

view from bedroom window

view from back bedroom window

view down the lane

Today has been blissful. We all had breakfast together before they left.

I got all my school work done on Friday (worked late into the night) so I could have a proper Sunday with Mr Sft.

We've walked down the lane to post a letter and take photos. Watched flocks of fieldfare in our back garden with our neighbours. Bread has been baked, we have supper sorted from batch cooking last week (veggie shepherds pie). We've been watching the last Harry Potter DVD and I hope to finish my book. Just blissful!

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

DAY 302-CIDER WITH ROSIE-MY READATHON CHALLENGE

Mrs Thrifty: Yes, Cider with Rosie is a beautiful book, ant this version is one to cherish. It will remain on my vintage book shelf in my bedroom, along with others. I was lucky to get the Book Club 1st Edition.

Silversewer: I would recommend another read.

Gill: Thanks for your support. As you can see we are enjoying our weekend very much.

Karen: Hope you do get to read Cider with Rosie again. What a lovely book for an English Lit Course.

Patricia: You are ahead of me, I am only a little way through September. It is my book at bedtime. I am enjoying it now (as you say I lost track of who was who) and love that it is set in Scotland.

NLA: You deserve to spoil yourself with a good book! That's never money wasted (IMO). Have a wonderful time reading them.

Jo: Keep looking for Cider with Rosie in the Charity shops. This edition was about £4.50 I think but worth it. It will turn up!

Jane: I know this challenge was a blissful challenge! Glad you've heard of the book! Sounds like a world wide success!

Mum: Hope I've tempted you into finding a copy of Cider with Rosie or ordering it from the library.

Dannie: Thanks for organising the readathon. I had fun!

DAY 302-CIDER WITH ROSIE-MY READATHON CHALLENGE!

2012-02-04T09:21:00.003Z

Hi Everyone!

Today I am taking part in a readathon challenge (info on side of blog). I planned to read for the whole 12 hours but my sister is coming over early for a 'hen' drink (for her wedding) so I'll be stopping early.

It begins in 18 minutes and I just wanted to show you what I have saved to read:

Laurie Lee, the youngest but one of a family of eight, was born in a small unvisited Cotswold valley and lived there until he was twenty. The village in which he grew up was poor, self sufficient and still mainly feudal. In this account of his early years he tell of thin winters, fat summers. local legends and ghosts, of neighbours and relations and of boys growing up against a half pagan landscape in which violence and madness, country follies and feasts were all part of one pastoral mess-pot.

I found this lovely old vintage 'book club' first edition in a Chairty/Op/Thrift shop and had to have it!

I am also allowed to read other blogs on this challenge so I'll be catching up after an exhausting week at school.

Wish me luck! I'll let you know my thoughts about this classic story.

Sft x

DAY 300- CHALLENGE UPDATES!

2012-02-02T22:00:00.001Z

CHALLENGE UPDATES:

Can't believe this is my 300th post! Thank you to everyone who reads my little blog and leaves a lovely comment. Your support is so touching to me! Sft x

MORTGAGE FREEDOM: Mr Sft got paid and we were able to reduce our mortgage further and to a nice round number:

WE HAVE PAID OFF: £182720

OUR REMAINING MORTGAGE IS NOW: £12280

LOW SPEND FEBRUARY

1st February: No spend day

2nd February: Spent £4.88 on groceries.

I need to send a cheque to a friend to pay for the wonderful gifts she is making for me. Also I need to make a charitable donation because another blogging friend made me some beautiful bookmarks and doesn't want paying but would appreciate a donation instead.

GROCERY CHALLENGE
With our additional spend our total is now: £24.09 out of our £60.00 cash. £35.91 left for the month.

How are your challenges going?

Have you made a great start to February?

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

DAY 299- TOPPING UP MY FILM LIST-but I still need your help!

(I've just recorded Elizabethtown with Orlando Bloom/The Ghost and The Westler so that makes 80 on the list - so 22 more!)

Mrs Tightwad: Of course THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION-my favourite all time film-I rewatch (81) and THE GREEN MILE (82) too

Northern Living Allowance: Thanks for your support!

Becky Bee: Yes Amelie is lovely. Thank you (83). I also have some Pedro Almodovor films recorded: Volver, Bad Education, All about my mother, Talk to her (87).

Emma@The Log Cabin: How to make an American Quilt (88), Driving Miss Daisy (89), Fried Green Tomatoes (90).

Sandra: Yes, I'll add Jane Eyre (91), you can never see that story enough and I've enjoyed other adaptations.

Dannie: Never heard of Constantine (92) Fight Club (93) and Forrest Gump (94).

Gill: Yes, I will be busy watching all those films but in a way it's nice to have a weekly movie night and know which film is coming up.

Aubrey Rose: The Lovely Bones: such a unique and original book, I agree, the film was good too.

Keshling: Mr Sft loves Galaxy Quest (95) so we'll add that. I'll add you to the sealed pot challengers list and good luck saving up for your New York special treat.

Theanne: Absolutely getting all my movies sorted for the year (and next!).

Patricia: You are such an inspiration with organising your savings. You should feel fantastic about it! Looking forward to hearing more on your blog.

Mrs No Spend: Oh, yes The Inn of the Sixth Happiness, another old favourite (96). We could watch Hot Fuzz time and time again, it's a simply brilliant film that made me laugh out loud.

Poppy: Definitely The Green Mile and loved Footloose too. We are watching the musical: Top Hat and a few more because I love them too! Lovely to hear from you.

Lonestarsky: Pricilla, Queen of the Dessert-loved the musical in London (97) and saw the film years ago so I'd love to watch it again.

Vicky: I'll be watching Fight Club again, I think it's such a clever film! Can't watch Up again as it breaks my heart, that will be me one day, without my Mr Sft.

Suze: Will add all of those to the list: We of the Never Never, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Breaker Morant, The Man from Snowy River, The Castle, The Dish. Thanks, looking forward to seeing the best of Aussie Films.

Jo: Dirty Dancing: Absolutely-I think I have reached my target now.

Nic: Everyone seems to be recommending The Notebook!

DAY 299- TOPPING UP MY FILM LIST-but I still need your help!

2012-02-01T21:03:00.003Z

Hi Everyone!

Thank you so much for your 'film ideas'.

Here is my list so far:

WATCH 101 FILMS

Film List

Wall Street
Rabbit Proof Fence
Hot Fuzz
The Insider
The Rope (Alfred Hitchcock Film starring James Stewart)
Chariots of Fire
The Good Shepherd
27 Dresses
Sleeping with the Enemy
Kidulthood
Adulthood
The African Queen
The Lovely Bones
The Jacket
The Family Man
The Bank Job
Jarhead
One flew over the cuckoo's nest
Glorious 39
Australia
The Blind Side
Sex and the City
Fish Tank
That Touch of Mink
The King's Speech
Failure to Launch
127 Hours
Fools Gold
Bride Wars
Iron Man 2
Bedrooms and Hallways
Night at the Museum 2
Faintheart
True Grit-Coen Brothers
Ghosts of Girlfriends' past
The Madness of King George
Monster in Law
Twilight
Twilight New Moon
Twilight Breaking Dawn
Knowing
Sherlock Holmes 2
The Girl with a dragon tattooMansfield Park
Sherlock Holmes
Wall Street 2

Next I am going to watch:

The Bucket List

17 again

It's a wonderful life

Top Hat

True Grit (seen Coen Brothers-this is the origninal)

O Brother Where Art Thou (love Coen Brothers)

And some of your choices which I'm going to order from Lovefilm rental:

DAFFODIL RECOMMENDED

Rear Window-(watch again)-ALSO BECKY BEE

Peeping Tom

NORTHERN LIVING ALLOWANCE RECOMMENDED

The Commitments

SCARLET RECOMMENDED

Gladiator (watch again)

ANNE RECOMMENDED

84 Charing Cross Road

The Magnificent Seven

Shirley Valentine (watch again)

CARLA, KITCHENBUNNY AND GILL RECOMMENDED

The Full Monty (watch again)

JANE RECOMMENDED

The Big Chill

Gone with the wind

Of Human Bondage

SUE15CAT

The Notebook

Breakfast at Tiffanys (Watch again)

BECKY BEE

The Ghost and Mrs Muir

MARY

Out of Afica (Watch again)

The English Patient (Watch again)

Dr Zhivago

Il Postino (Watch again-LOVE THIS FILM)

Cinema Paradiso (Watch again-LOVE THIS FILM)

Pride and Prejudice

MATTHEW

Pay if forward

World's fastest Indian

AND ALSO ORDER :

To Kill A Mocking Bird/Notorious/North by Northwest/Heaven Knows Mr Alison/Educating Rita

That will bring me up to 77!

ANY MORE IDEAS FOLKS? YOUR NEXT TOP 5?

Sft x

Thank you for your comments about yesterday's post:

MRS THRIFTY: Good luck with your challenges and thanks for your support.

JO: Keeping our eyes on the prize: The Camera.

AUBREY ROSE: 15 NO SPENDS is great! Congrats! And for spending less. You're doing great.

THEANNE: Congrats on keeping up with the saving.

LAURA: Yes, roll on February and thanks for your support.

FRAN: Thanks for your support.

MATTHEW: I am going for a LOW Spend Feb too as we are focusing everything on paying off the mortgage and paying for Africa.

BECKY BEE: Thank you for your support.

MAJORIE: Thanks for your support.

JO: Hope you found the film list interesting.

PATRICIA: Your saving is unbelievable..you are so dedicated and what results. You are an inspiration.

DAY 298-END OF LOW SPEND JANUARY 2012

2012-01-31T21:19:00.002Z

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to new follower: Never Too Old. Hope you can leave a comment from time to time. I love reading them!

So here's the round up for January!

Low Spend January 2012-starting 2nd Jan

2nd-£1 on a shared sandwich.-Pleased with that.

3rd-No personal spending-20p IN SEALED POT

(Many DDs come out today)

4th-Food Shopping=ALL PAID FOR WITH VOUCHERS SO NO SPEND DAY-20p IN SEALED POT! NO SPEND DAY 1

5th-No personal spending-20p IN SEALED POT

NO SPEND DAY 2

6th-Food Shopping=ALL PAID FOR WITH VOUCHERS SO NO SPEND DAY 3-20p IN SEALED POT!

7th-£66 spent

£41 on my hair. Have it done 3 times a year.

£15 on stickers for my class.

£10 on the clock!

LOW SPEND CHALLENGE TOTAL: £74

8th-No spend day 4-20p in sealed pot

9th-No spend day 5-20p in sealed pot

10th-No spend day 6-20p in sealed pot

11th-£3.50 lost in the playground

12th-£3.50 for ticket. It's not the end of the story by the way.