State of the Union
October 2025
Why I’m Sharing This
Each month, I will be posting my real numbers — income, expenses, debts, and cash flow — for two primary reasons:
1. Transparency:
I want this blog to show real numbers and the actual journey from financial ruin → to being debt-free → to financial freedom.
2. Accountability:
Writing these posts keeps me honest, focused, and faith-driven.
If these posts help even one person feel less alone in their financial journey, it’s worth it.
Income Breakdown
(All numbers post-tax unless noted.)
W2 Income: $14,015
Side Hustles: $1,800
Other: $0
➡️ Total Monthly Income: $15,815
This month was a five-week month, so income was a bit higher than usual. I also still haven’t sold my house, so one of my tenants paid both October and November’s rent on the 1st and 31st — that’s the $1,800.
Expense Breakdown
Major Categories
Mortgage: $4,529
Rent: $592
Utilities: $533
Groceries: $630
Insurance: $261
Telephone: $27
Tithing: $0
Loans: $1,219
Personal Debts: $3,261
Daily Living
Restaurants: $269
Entertainment: $59
Personal Care: $65
General Merchandise: $40
Online Services: $109
Cable/Satellite: $85
Other Expenses
Automotive: $61
Travel: $463
Electronics: $0
Postage/Shipping: $0
Office Supplies: $0
Healthcare/Medical: $0
Service Charges/Fees: $1,049
Education: $0
Other Bills: $0
➡️ Total Monthly Expenses: $13,252
This is where it hurts: that expense number is scary and embarrassing to share. The good news is that once I sell my house, my mortgage, utilities, and cable disappear completely — a total of $5,147 per month. I’ll end up renting a spare room back home to keep me (and the IRS) happy, but that won’t cost much.
My travel and restaurant spending were high because I flew home to see my family — something I’ll always happily spend on.
Lastly, I wasn’t able to tithe this month out of fear of adding to my credit card balances. That’s something I’m actively working on changing. Tithing should come first. God isn’t getting 10% from me — He’s giving me the gift of keeping 90%.
Cash Flow Summary
Income: $15,815
Expenses: $13,252
➡️ Pure Cash Flow: + $2,563
➡️ Savings Rate: 16.21%
Even though I’m not thrilled with my expenses, there’s a lot to be thankful for. My savings rate was higher than expected. I still managed to bring in cash despite paying $3,261 toward my failed business’ lease and still covering my personal mortgage.
I use sparklines in Google Sheets, and seeing the little green line move to the right feels good. It’s progress, even if slow.
Debt Snapshot
Here’s where everything stands this month, straight from my Google Sheet:
Right now, I’m focusing all net cash flow on making sure I don’t have to borrow more. I also had to catch up on some payments, so my bank account doesn’t look like I had a $2,563 surplus — but time heals all.
Once the house sells, I can save more and will use the extra cash (from not paying the mortgage) to wipe out Chase and Discover during my second (and last) contract of 2025. If I get any cash from the house sale, I’ll put some toward my parents and hopefully pay off my car — which would free up another ~$1,000/month between the car note and related expenses.
Things I’ll Sustain from This Month
Solid savings rate
Didn’t add to credit card debt
Got to spend real time with family
Things I’ll Improve Next Month
Keep restaurants under $100
Sell my house (please, Lord)
Tithe first
Closing Thoughts
This month taught me that stewardship is slow and steady. God has been teaching me discipline — how to treat His money as something entrusted, not owned.
I’m grateful for progress, even the small pieces of it.
These numbers aren’t where I want to be, but I know I’m in this season for a reason.