January 2021
What we’re reading–
This book has expanded my thinking to shoot for bigger, more ridiculous goals.
It’s a fantastic book about stories throughout history about how to nurture the crazy ideas that win wars, cure diseases, and change the world.
What I added to my capsule wardrobe this week–
I have been on the hunt for a plain white t-shirt that is not see-through, affordable, high quality, loose fit/boxy, right sleeve length, scoop neck, feminine, and not cropped.
It seems like a simple enough request right?
Well, I finally found it– for $12.
Hopefully, it lives up to my expectation when it gets here. If not, I will be back on the hunt so send me your recommendations. 😉
Our Most Clicked Link from Every Financial Friday in 2020–
In 2020, Financial Friday grew from 200 subscribers to over 2000.
Here are the most clicked links from every Financial Friday we sent last year:
A list of Monthly Adventures we went on this Year –
Every month we do what we call a “Monthly Adventure.”
It can be big or small, free or pricier, outdoor or indoor.
Really there are no rules but it has really helped us to prioritize FUN while accomplishing our financial goals.
This year was a bit more challenging because I was pregnant and couldn’t do the usual hikes and outdoor things we normally do BUT we still managed to have a wonderful year and prioritize fun things even if they were a bit smaller.
You should try it!
Here is our list to get you thinking.
February 2021
What hygiene and personal care products we’re using in 2021 –
Here’s the list of products we buy in bulk for the year! Enjoy.
A yummy recipe we made this week —
This was a super easy, yummy recipe we made this week. We brought someone dinner this week that recently had a baby and I was looking for a recipe that was simple, easy to double and yummy. This fit the bill. It wasn’t necessarily very healthy, but the fact that it had a “no cook sauce” made it super simple to juggle all the things we had going on that night while still making it seem like a “fancy meal.” Just serve it with some tasty salad and Italian bread and you will feel like you stepped into Italy for a moment. 😉
Let me know if you try it!
Our 100 Dreams Lists—
We put together a list of 100 dreams, goals, and things we want to do in our lifetime in 2020.
Here are the updates to our list, what we accomplished, and how you can make your own:
Click here for Dan’s 100 Dreams List
Click here for Kay’s 100 Dreams List
3 Free Valentines Day Ideas —
Sometimes the very best Valentine’s Day gifts are free! Dan is one of those very sentimental types so it makes it even easier for me. There are so many ways to still help your significant other feel loved and special without being super spend-y.
Here are three Free Valentine’s Day Ideas to get you started.
March 2021
An article I’ve been thinking about–
Moms Still Carry the Mental Load in Marriage. What Dads can do to balance the Scales.
Kay and I talk about this a lot. There are things on Kay’s radar that I don’t even think about. For example:
We’re going out as a family; what needs to be done? A lot of things: kids fed, snacks packed, diaper bag prepared. For some reason, I have to continually make that intentional choice to be aware and involved so the household work doesn’t all land on Kay’s shoulders.
Something I’m working on and getting better at. The above article is a good read on the subject.
Airbnb Friendly Meals —
This week we have been planning a trip, and it reminded me of one of the ways we choose to save money when traveling– food.
I know it sounds counterintuitive (especially because we are such foodies), but in the past we have really gotten sick of eating out for every single meal. Instead, we get an Airbnb with a kitchen and order groceries online and pick them up when we arrive at our destination. Then, we eat out for a few meals throughout the trip and eat the rest at home.
Here are a few of our favorite Airbnb meals.
What we’re reading—
I really enjoy lists.
In this case, here is a “Not-to-do list.”
The-Not-To-Do-List: 9 Habits to Stop Now by Tim Ferris
My 6 step process for selling things online —
This week, I had a few conversations with friends about selling things on Facebook Marketplace. (For those of you who don’t know, this is one of the things we did to pay of $20,000 of debt in 6 months as college students) I realized that there is actually more to it than simply throwing up a picture and hoping someone will buy it. So I put together an article sharing my process.
Here is my 6 step process for selling things online.
April 2021
What’s your Enneagram? —
I have always been a bit embarrassed about my enneagram results because no matter how many times I take it, I always get an Enneagram 3- The Achiever. (Funny enough, Dan is actually an Enneagram 3 too!)
However, knowing this about myself and really leaning into my natural strengths and weaknesses has been such a cool experience for me.
To learn about the 9 Different Enneagram Types you can click here.
If you are curious what your enneagram is, you can take a free personality test here.
What we’re reading —
How to Create a Million Dollar Business This Weekend – from the Blog of Tim Ferriss
Think bigger.
What we’re reading–
I FINALLY finished this book this week. I feel like I could read it 100 times and still get something new out of it.
One takeaway that I really enjoyed is the idea of human capital.
“Human Capital is the stock of habits, knowledge, social and personality attributes embodied in the ability to perform labour so as to produce economic value.”
AKA: If you were to strip away all of your wealth, connections and reputation and you were thrown to the streets– what would be left? Someone who continually builds their human capital, is way better off and could rebuild everything they have.
For example, Bill Gates would have the skill set and knowledge to rebuild his wealth, whereas the King of England, who inherited their wealth, may have some trouble.
This book really motivated me to continue creating human capital in all areas — gaining knowledge, skills, personality traits, character etc.– this is where true wealth lies.
A list of 37 Affirmations I read to myself every morning–
This list is deeply personal, but I’ve found that saying these things to myself every day keeps me grounded, focused, and hopeful on who I’m trying to become and the future.
The 37 affirmations come from thoughts, quotes, or phrases I’ve had or heard over the last couple of years. I add or remove affirmations based on how helpful they are.
It’s a living list.
Top 100 Products For Under $100 That Will Truly Change Your Life–
This was one of our most popular articles last year– so we did it again. We asked over 27,000 people one question: “What is a product under $100 that has truly changed your life?”
Here were their responses.
Scroll down to the bottom to see our top 5 picks!
Top 100 Products for Under $100 That Will Truly Change Your Life
May 2021
A Father’s Day Gift Idea–
Dan got me one of these personalized books for Mother’s day a few years ago and I loved it. If you need an idea for Father’s Day, this might be a win for you too.
An interview I thoroughly enjoyed listening to–
This one is between Jordan Peterson and Tim Ferriss.
No matter who you are, this 90-minute discussion will make you think.
Just turn it on and enjoy.
A sustainable product every woman should use–
A menstrual cup. I was skeptical for a while but I have now used this one for my last two cycles and it has been amazing! There is definitely a steep learning curve but I think I am finally getting the hang of it.
Save money. Save the planet. Less cramps. Everything is just so much better.
Have a great week!
What we’re watching–
This video is a 45-minute presentation on why this law professor will ALWAYS use the 5th amendment and never talk to the police.
With over 12 MILLION views, this video was entertaining, interesting, and fun. Give it a listen!
June 2021
An Exercise Program for Moms —
I feel like I need to scream this from the rooftops because I feel like so many people are unaware of things like Diastasis Recti or the importance of strengthening your pelvic floor before — during and after having a baby.
My recovery with our second baby has been much more challenging for me than our first and this exercise program has been CRUCIAL to my healing process. It is a blend of pelvic floor physical therapy and fitness.
She has you go through “Core Basics” to strengthen your core in a safe way (**Hint: it is not with crunches and planks and traditional exercises you think of) and then has you transition to a 3 month “SLAM Bridge” to help you build up to traditional exercise programs you would do at the gym.
I have learned SO much from this program from breathing, to posture, to form, to everyday tips (how to carry your carseat safely, wear a baby wrap without hurting your pelvic floor etc), to actually strengthening and healing and truly feeling stronger and stronger each day.
Seriously. Big Fan.
A playlist for your next road trip–
We recently returned from a road trip to California.
We listened to this playlist on our way there, and I genuinely loved it.
There was such a good mix of oldies, high school throwbacks and current music–and it was all family-friendly. I am sure it could be a winner for everyday listening as well, but if you have any road trips planned this summer, be sure to take a listen!
A Public Toilet Seat We all Need–
I hate putting toilet paper or those paper toilet bowl-shaped things down on the seat. They never stay up!
Check out this innovative toilet seat here.
A summer challenge–
Looking for fun activities this summer that won’t break the bank?
Here you will find a list of 20 activities that range from absolutely FREE to $20 — max. Take on this summer 20 under $20 challenge for some throwback activities and maybe you’ll even try something new, too!
July 2021
A video that’s made me think about the societal problem of Homelessness–
This video is from a very conservative source, and while I don’t agree with everything they espouse, I do like to listen to different talking points of opposing political views.
This video specifically addresses the issue of Homelessness, which is a big issue, especially in certain big cities.
What causes homelessness and what’s the best way we can help?
This video gave me new things to consider about the issue.
(Note, I believe several claims from the video are HIGHLY over-simplified, but the general idea is thought-provoking.)
Our 10 money habits that help us be more intentional spenders–
One of the biggest challenges in personal finance is figuring out how to be an intentional spender. It doesn’t mean you never buy anything. It doesn’t mean that you save every dime you ever earn. It means you are intentional.
Here are 10 habits that have helped us become more intentional with our spending.
Learn negotiation from the top FBI Kidnap Negotiator–
This book by Chris Voss changed my entire perspective on negotiation. Whether you’re buying a new car, or doing a business deal, this book is a must-read.
I’ve already applied what I’ve learned – and it works!
And remember, Never Split the Difference.
What we bought this week–
Lucy’s water bottle finally bit the dust this week after using it all day every day for the past 1 and 1/2 years. We decided it was time for a new one. We got her this one.
They have so many fun colors, perfect kid-size, stainless steel, and it is great quality. Hoping we get another 1 1/2 years out of this one!
A video every single American should watch–
We hear a lot about the “economy” – but how does it actually work?
Off of a set of rules of course.
Ray Dalio, whom I regard as one of the smartest financial minds of our time, breaks it down in this brilliant 30-minute animation.
I don’t recommend 30-minute videos lightly.
Take the time to watch this.
August 2021
A Local Camping spot that has become an Ockey regular–
It is no secret that I love camping. We decided to take our 9-month-old to experience it for the first time. Between him and our two-and-a-half-year-old, we didn’t get much sleep, but we had a great time.
If you are local and looking for a new place to try, we have loved Whiting Campground. This was our second time going to this same campground because we love it so much.
Not too crowded, real toilets (hallelujah!), lots of trees, perfect weather, only about a 20 min drive from Provo– It has been great!
Let us know if you go!
What we’re reading–
My good friend Jake sent me this article about how a 24-year-old became a self-made millionaire in 5 years, and how he did it.
So much more is possible when you just go for it!
An excerpt from the article:
“In 2010, 24-year-old Grant Sabatier had just moved back in with his parents after bouncing from job to job and then getting laid off in the midst of the recession. With less than $5 to his name and only three months to find his own place, Sabatier knew he needed to get his finances back on track.”
Read what he did to become a millionaire just 5 years later, here.
How to Interview Realtors & What to Look For–
Many of you know that we have had our downpayment saved up for a while but still haven’t pulled the trigger to buy a home.
This week we started looking for a realtor.
If you are in the home buying process or will be in the next coming months/years, I recommend interviewing them! There is so much you can learn about someone in a quick 30-minute phone call.
Here are the 10 questions we have been asking the realtors we interview.
I recently lost 10 lbs in 8 weeks. Here’s how–
I hired a health coach. I found Bryan through social media. I liked his approach because it isn’t based on fad diets or “60-day shreds”. The focus is on long-term, sustainable health.
I took Bryan’s 8-week coaching program and lost 10 lbs. I feel like I have way more energy, mental focus, and I’m still sticking with the program he gave me.
Check it out here:
September 2021
What we bought this week–
We bought this wooden car set this week because our current car set is down to one car.
As you can imagine, two kids and one car has not been going very smoothly. We are excited to test it out!
From the Blog —
Why this weekend is the perfect time to start a side-hustle.
What we’re reading–
As I have been packing up our books and preparing for our move, I rediscovered this one.
I just re-read the first chapter and even that is worth the read.
So good.
A Youtube Account we’ve been enjoying —
For our friends Brandon and Danielle Porter, weekly date nights felt like a dream for the future–when they had surplus time and money, and no need to pay for a babysitter for their six kids.
But when they figured out what their marriage was missing by not having consistent date nights, things changed.
With a little creativity, they figured out ways to make fun, budget-friendly, rejuvenating weekly date nights happen now.
To encourage other couples, Danielle and Brandon created a YouTube Channel with videos of date activities and tips for making date night happen in any season of life.
My personal favorite video was this one.
You can find even more date ideas, along with principles and ideas for connecting and strengthening your marriage, by following them @MarriageBuilttoThrive on Instagram.
October 2021
What we bought this week–
I have been saving my “her money” for months and I finally decided to buy my splurge of the season and I bought these shoes for my capsule.
I love them so much.
If you are looking for a high-quality winter dress shoe– this is the one.
They are so great!
The next Peloton Bike? —
Sort of – while I’m not planning on buying one of these Tonal machines anytime soon, I am probably going to consider saving up for one.
Leaving my gym in Provo (which I loved) has left me looking for my next gym. Now that we have a house, I’ve been thinking about a home gym, and I love how the “digital weight” of tonal minimizes space used.
Check it out!
Note – this is not sponsored – just genuinely curious about the new product.
November 2021
30+ Self Help Booklist —
How many have you read off of this list? We are big fans of reading around here. (I owe that one to Dan because I used to never read until I met him) Here is a list of 30+ self help books, some I have read and some I haven’t but I am curious to know which ones you would recommend off of this list?
My top 5, in no particular order would be: The Life- Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Atomic Habits, Daring Greatly, The Happiness Advantage and some aspects of The 4 Hour Work Week.
Hawaii Trip Budget Breakdown —
One of our favorite things to do as a couple is experience things together.
We even have an entire mini course dedicated to travel as part of the Personal Finance Accelerator Program. I, for one, am always curious how much things cost. So, today we broke down our Hawaii trip for you.
We went for four full days and it was perfect for the two of us! Here is our Hawaii Budget Breakdown.
A video that’s made me reflect on my values–
This opinion piece by the New York Times has had me reflecting on my political values and if I truly live them.
No matter how you vote, and I think it’s important we live what we say matters. Watch by clicking here.
December 2021
What we’ve been reading–
2021 is coming to a close and I can hardly believe it. I read too many good books this year to pick a favorite but I would love to hear yours!
Just respond to this email with your favorite book you read in 2021 and why. I would love to hear!
Here is my (Kay’s 2021 Booklist)
What we’ve been reading–
I’ve written about this book before, but I CANNOT understate the impact it’s had on my perspective and paradigm of life:
Mindset by Carol Dweck. This is a MUST READ!!
For so long I’ve tried to be a “Perfect” Entrepreneur, parent, husband.
But the most important thing you can do is let yourself grow – this means trying and failing consistently.
This book really gave me a mental breakthrough around a lot of the frustration I’ve felt in my life – and the desire and tools to become better.
If you’ve ever thought about reading any of the books we recommend, I would say read this.
Some additional Christmas thoughts–
It’s Christmas Eve again.
Maybe you’re exactly where you want to be in life, maybe there is much more to be desired.
Either way – we know that Christmas is often a time of reflection and maybe pain for some.
We pray for your success, your health, your financial wealth, and your security.
While these things are all very important, we also pray that you find peace and hope this time of year.
We personally, as Christians, look to Jesus Christ for this peace and continually find it.
He has brought peace, meaning, and joy to our lives, in good times and bad.
As a wise man once said:
“The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.” – Russell M. Nelson
If you are needing more hope, peace, or joy in your life, I’d personally invite you to learn more about Jesus Christ. You can do so by clicking here if interested.
Merry Christmas!!
What we’ve been reading–
I actually would love to re-read this book. I read it a couple of years ago and ever since, I have been obsessed with the idea of hygge (pronounced: ho͝oɡə).
The definition of hygge is: a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being (regarded as a defining characteristic of Danish culture).
This book is all about how you can create more hygge in your life and the importance of it in the Danish culture. Dan and I especially try to create a hygge atmosphere this time of year with Christmas music, candles, cozy blankets, yummy smells, reminiscing on memories, turning all the lights off except the Christmas tree, a fireplace etc.– basically trying to simplify and appreciate the simple pleasures of the season.
How can you bring more hygge in your life?
Have an argument with your spouse/significant other? Start with this free web class on what to do after the fact–
The 5 steps to Fully Repair After an Argument
A Daily Service Calendar for the Month of December-
One of our favorite traditions has been participating in the “Light The World” Challenge.
It really helps me to get in the spirit of giving and remember the true meaning of Christmas.
The challenge involves doing something kind each day to help “light the world.” You can download a service calendar with small acts of kindness and ideas to do each day for the month of December, or you can make your own calendar with other ideas of how to give everyday this Christmas.
Even if you don’t do something every single day, it helps to get your wheels turning of things you can do!
You can download a FREE calendar or sign up for text reminders here