A Turning Point in Our Life Together...

It became a reality that our economy was struggling when I had a 12% loss on my 401-K 4th quarter of 2008. Then it was an instant reminder when TJ's hours were cut at work. Regardless of how much of a struggle one goes through it simply becomes a back bone for what is to come. Granted this struggle brought arguments between two that never thought anything other than love could happen. This struggle brought depression, stress, and multiple nervous breakdowns within the last 6 months or so.

I was beginning to wonder if all of these "mental games" were partaking in the fast moving life of marriage and buying our first home. I'm assuming that is part of it however things have started to turn for the better! :)

So we have had great news day after day for the last week.

#1) I went over my performance review at work last month however had not received my raise information until last week. Because of how the economy has been and how horribly it has struck the financial world I had not expected anything other than to keep my job, regardless if a pay cut had to be done. On the contrary I ended up receiving a pay raise of 4.54% in addition to 5 extra vacation days. What more could I ask for? I was elated!

#2) TJ and I received a phone call from the mortgage lender stating that we were qualified for a 1% interest rate reduction loan! This is HUGE as we bought our house when the rates were high (currently at a 6% dropping to a 5%). Not only is this awesome because it lowers our monthly payments but the terms and conditions stay the same as they were before and we will remain in a Veterans Affairs Government Loan --- SAVING MORE MONEY!!! In figuring out our monthly payments we are expecting to save $85 a month on our mortgage payment --- this is awesome!

#3) About a month ago when TJ's hours at work were really getting cut his friend hooked him up with a Landscape Design Company owner to see if he had any work for him. Guess What... He does! Not only does he have work for him but he has Full Time - Year Round Employment. This means no more season work like he was doing before. Since TJ has three college degrees in Landscape Design, Turf Management, and Horticulture he will be getting paid much more than expected, he will be getting a company vehicle, as well as getting full time hours.

All in all TJ and I went through our struggle and I was doing what I could to help 'pull the weight' while he was in a slump. Now the only thing that could make our lives better would be adding in the joy of life, a baby. This has not happened yet but I will keep everyone posted to when it does as we are trying!

With Love,
Jenna Marie