The Year of Saving - Curveballs Already?!

When Amy and I dubbed 2025 our “Year of Saving,” we didn’t expect the universe to test us quite so soon. Two months in, and it’s less “smooth sailing” and more “here come the curveballs.” Turns out, owning three vehicles aged 10 to 16 years, with mileage to match, is a recipe for surprises. Who could have guessed, haha! 

First up: Ava’s 2009 Scion tC. It passed inspection (win!), but the rust underneath has us on borrowed time—next year’s a question mark. We’re now hunting for a replacement. Then, within weeks, its alternator quit. Now in some vehicles, replacing an alternator is not a difficult task. But after doing some research, there are many ways this could go wrong if I attempt this fix in the driveway. So, it’s scheduled to be fixed in the next week or so with an estimate of $400-500, ouch! We’re hoping it gives us a few more months of drivability. Meanwhile, my Mazda 3 (my commuter car) had a leaky tire. I figured, “Easy patch job.” Nope—cracked wheel. Another $400-500 for a replacement and alignment.   

And because chaos loves company, 15 minutes after I was informed that the Mazda’s tire was not a quick fix, Ava called: our Explorer was dead in a parking lot (she borrowed it while her car waits in our driveway to be fixed). Six-year-old battery, corroded terminals, zero power. After cleaning the battery terminals, a successful jumpstart, and $200 for a new battery, it’s running…for now.   

So much for “Year of Saving,” right? Well, not quite. These hiccups remind us why we’re doing this: to move toward a home that fits our family’s next chapter by summer 2026. Sure, the savings account has taken a few hits, but that’s life! It’s a reminder for all of us pursuing a specific target too: life doesn’t pause for your goals but staying focused helps you roll with the punches. I know I finished my article this way only a month or so ago but now I REALLY mean it…wish us luck! 

Tracking # T008714 

Investment Advice offered through Great Valley Advisor Group, a Registered Investment Advisor. Great Valley Advisor Group and Haas Financial Group are separate entities. This is not intended to be used as tax or legal advice. Please consult a tax or legal professional for specific information and advice.