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Home > Trip #1 is done...assessing the damage...

Trip #1 is done...assessing the damage...

April 24th, 2012 at 10:22 pm

So...been a little over a week since I last posted...

We left town last Wednesday morning to travel across several states to go to my brother-in-law's wedding. We did try to eat cheaper while traveling, but did have a nice meal out at the end of each long day of travel there and back. And we ate out the entire time we were there...but we were treated one meal by my mother in law...and we treated one meal (to avoid the family squabbles that occur) and then we had to meals for the rehearsal and wedding that were included...so yea, food is the biggest cost of this wedding trip! So still assessing the damage.

Good points...our VW Jetta TDI (diesel) gets fantastic gas mileage...so that helps and makes it so we can avoid the high cost states....

My Mom stayed at the house to house sit and critter sit...so we saved a BUNDLE there...

We house sat and critter sat for my brother in law and new wife...so we avoided 3 nights of hotel costs other family members had to incur...so YAY for being the animal crazy members of the family and getting asked!

All in all, it was a good trip, and I think we did well. I think it will take a hit on our debt repayment, but we should still see a decrease this month when we get to the end of the month...

And we were able to be a big part of a special weekend and the joining of a newly married couple...and that is priceless.

4 Responses to “Trip #1 is done...assessing the damage...”

  1. baselle Says:
    1335307739

    I think you did well also. Again, it might cheer you on to run the numbers old way of taking a trip (all meals in restaurants, boarding the pet, hotel rooms all the way) and new way. I would exclude the Jetta costs in this exercise unless you usually rent a car.

    Yes, you are digging the hole a bit, but you are digging it slower and you are developing some frugal muscles ... and hopefully you had as much or more fun. (More fun because you weren't quite as stressed)

  2. snafu Says:
    1335318924

    Family events are important to maintain ties and I'm delighted to see these being given priority. Good on you for planning, staying aware of expenditures, eliminating the huge cost of house/pet sitters and accommodations. You may be a bit behind your target but the memories, photos and family bonds were worth it...yes?

  3. CB in the City Says:
    1335357277

    Yes, you did well. I have a family wedding coming up, too, that is in another state. It will be costly, but like you, I will try to minimize the damage.

  4. Jerry Says:
    1335621399

    The VW TDIs are wonderful in the mileage, and I would love to get one when we come back to the States. They last a looooong time, too, those diesels. There is a company in Massachusetts that can convert diesels to also run on waste vegetable oils (as well as diesel) to lead to savings at the pump and some insurance of fuel flexibility. That is another nice option, I think!
    Jerry

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