Costs

My project for today was to put together a spreadsheet of all the expenses I've incurred thus far on my midwifery journey. I thought I would also get a head start on my taxes for this year.

It's still very much a rough draft, but here's how it all breaks down:

Apprenticeship (bridge toll charges only, not including gas, food, and the emotional cost, oy) - $232

Casa (internship fee and airfare for both trips) - $4360

Casa other (postage to and from, groceries, gas and gifts for the midwives) - $575

Classes and trainings (not included in school) - $675

Licensing fees - $400

Professional memberships and renewals - $270

NARM exam and hotel costs - $797

Midwifery school tuition - $12,000

Postage and misc. to and from school - $105

Study group costs (bridge toll and fees paid to instructor) - $563

Supplies (books and very basic equipment) - $1500

Grand total = $21,400.

Dios mio, that's only the stuff I have receipts for. No frickin wonder I'm broke. Congratulations, you've graduated school, your credit cards are maxed out, and you now face a massive amount of debt. It's the American way.

I can't help but feel discouraged at this point. It feels like it will take forever for me to dig my way out of this financial pit. Maybe I'll get a spiritual lift once I actually have my license in my hands.

In the meantime, I better start dinner for my gem of a husband who has not only encouraged me every step of the way, but sacrificed his own lifestyle and financial success so I could accomplish my goal. He's so wonderful. I think he thinks I don't notice a lot of what he does to support us, but I do. I especially loved the shrimp curry he threw together for dinner last night. I'm determined to make him proud and to show him (and myself) that this struggle has been worthwhile.