It’s been about 10 months, but I’m back. I doubt if anyone reads this blog anymore since it hasn’t been updated in such a long time. I’ll likely be updating it daily from here on out for anyone that’s interested.

A lot has changed since I posted in November of 2005. Actually, I don’t know where to begin. I’ll give you a quick update:
My weight problem is a thing of the past. I’ve been on a strict diet and exercise program since last year and I managed to come down to 190lbs. Not bad, considering that I weighed in at 260 a little over a year ago. I’m still constantly hungry, but I feel so much better now. I would never go back to my previous lifestyle – over consumption (in anything) is not a good thing. It took me a long time to figure that one out. Moderation is the key.

My original plan was to sell the house, move to the city, get a room, save all my wages, then hopefully retire to a very frugal lifestyle.

Well, I did sell the house last December. I really took a bath on the deal though. I sold it for less than market value because of the bickering going on between my ex and me. The buyer was crafty and he picked up on the fact that I was desperate. What can I say? He got a deal, and I got my piece of mind back.

I’m now living back in the city. I’m “unemployed” and loving every minute of it. It was difficult to tear myself away from the corporate teat, but now I can see that I made the right decision. I’ve been reborn and feel as though the possibilities are endless.

One thing I learned, is that anything is possible as long as you get over the fear. Life is too short to spend it in misery and money (although necessary for survival) will not buy you happiness. Time, and the ability to spend it as you choose, is what’s really important.

Although I don’t have enough money to officially “retire,” I know that I will never again waste one minute of my precious time doing something I don’t like. I will work for minimum wage if I have to. I’ll work at a McDonalds and have a teenage boss if necessary – But I will never whore myself out to some faceless corporation, doing a mindless job, just for the money. Some things are more important.

So, that’s about it. I have enough money to live on for a few years if I’m very frugal – Frugal means only buying the necessities and giving up all luxuries. Do I care? Nope, because the free time I’m enjoying now is priceless.

It’s been a while since I’ve posted, so I thought I would give an update of what’s been happening in the last month or so.

The renovations on the house are complete. It’s been on the market now for about 2 weeks. I’ve had quite a few people looking at it, and even a few offers so far. One guy came in with a low-ball offer that made me laugh. I guess it takes all kinds. I hope that it sells before the real winter sets in.

I’ve lost about 20 pounds on my self-imposed diet. It really feels great to move around 20 pounds lighter. I still have a way to go, but I’m very encouraged by the results thus far. I started power walking last week. It takes a lot out of me, but I have noticed the difference in weight loss. I doubt that I will ever take up running, as the power walking is almost too much to handle as it is.

I have sold most of my toys. It’s funny how I don’t really miss any of that junk. My only regret is that I may have sold a few items below market value. Oh well, at least I won’t have to take any of it with me.

I’m still very committed to my original plan. I can see things falling into place. As mentioned, I hope to have the house sold soon. Once that is taken care of I will be looking for a very inexpensive place in the city – preferably within walking distance of my work.

Once I’m settled there, it’s one year of frugality and saving. I think I can still make my financial target and “retire” right on schedule.

People watching can be very interesting. Since I began taking the train into work, I have had many opportunities to observe my fellow commuters.

I’ve come to the conclusion that many probably feel exactly like me, but are unable to make, or even consider the changes needed to break free. They have accepted defeat and slowly trudge on, day after day, making their contribution to society – accepting their lot in life.

They exit the train at the same time every day. Walking alongside thousands of others in a solemn march to the office towers – their faces void of any sign of happiness (of any expression really), they trudge on. They are beaten individuals. There is no hope here, just mindless drudgery.

What keeps them here? As with 99% of the population, I’m sure it’s the usual list of culprits. Debts need to be serviced, taxes need to be paid, lifestyles need to be maintained, and aren’t we lucky that our precious jobs can provide all that.

Where would we be without the corporation?