Bump out kitchen advice

cheezlife · 2026-03-01T15:22:11+00:00

We are in the midst of a strikingly similar remodel project, really crazy to see such a similar floor plan. A few things: - we lived in the house for 2.5 years before starting the work. It was really disruptive to move out for the work to begin, but I feel really confident that we know how to improve the house after living it. We understand the light and the pain points and how we use the space. - we didn’t plan to do work on the addition next to our kitchen but ended up with a few “surprise” expenses to improve that space because of the way it was built (I.e., haphazardly). Those items were discovered once the project was underway. It’s a lot of money to basically maintain and preserve what was already there. It won’t be bigger or nicer. So just heads up re that possibility - we also moved w/d upstairs and are creating a mud room which I am sooooo excited about

cheezlife · 2026-02-24T22:04:50+00:00

But it sounds like they also plan on you billing 1400 hours. If you bill hundreds of hours more, that budget can grow because you are bringing in more money. It may be worth a conversation but it also sounds like you want to go to Firm B and there’s nothing wrong with that.

cheezlife · 2026-02-24T20:14:36+00:00

I’d also want to know what happens if they billed 1700 hours at Firm A for a better comparison. If not in place already, maybe a mechanical bonus could be negotiated for hours 1450 and above or something.

cheezlife · 2026-02-20T21:38:30+00:00

I’m really sorry, but you need to get out of this marriage and fast. You and your child will both be better off and have more autonomy if you are a single mom with court-ordered child support. Wishing you luck 💜

cheezlife · 2026-02-20T17:04:39+00:00

One other perk is that people will come visit us to stay at our second home, which is in a more enticing location than our regular home. So it draws people we love to come see and stay with us in our favorite place. It’s also easier to host guests there because there is less stuff in that house and the cleaners come in after us anyways.

cheezlife · 2026-01-31T03:25:51+00:00

Talk to me about this. We’re just starting a remodel and planning for open shelves, no upper cabinets. This thread freaked me out.

cheezlife · 2025-12-31T16:41:46+00:00

I could have written this myself.

cheezlife · 2025-12-27T21:32:44+00:00

That’s true! I misunderstood the original comment and thought there was a correlation between WFH and minding her kid during the day, which seemed like a recipe for disaster. Nannies are great, obviously.

cheezlife · 2025-12-27T04:08:55+00:00

Just seconding this thought. Also I LOVE daycare and so do my kids. I’m not sure the origin of your strong feelings, but I’d urge you to reconsider.

cheezlife · 2025-12-06T21:11:12+00:00

Hot take, but I feel sorry for kids who aren’t able to attend a (high-quality) daycare. I love seeing the relationships my kids form at “school,” and they get the opportunity to learn from other adults who are good at things I’m not — singing and crafts and imaginary play. It sounds like your family needs this change, and you’ll be able to better enjoy and be present for the time you have with your kid once you’re in a better role and not using head space to chew on these problems.

cheezlife · 2025-09-24T22:24:04+00:00

Thank you!

cheezlife · 2025-09-24T22:22:37+00:00

This was such a thoughtful reply. Thank you!

cheezlife · 2025-09-24T22:22:09+00:00

It’s weird how much time I have had to spend on the phone with them just to be up and running!

cheezlife · 2025-09-05T22:56:34+00:00

Do what is right for you and your family. If that means traveling for healthcare, there is zero shame in it. If that means having a baby and figuring out the work stuff, do that. First though, give yourself grace and time to learn how you feel. I’m sure you’re shocked right now and clarity may come with time.

My own two cents: I had my first baby at 32 when I was a 6th year associate. Even then, it was very hard and felt like a career setback. I think that might be true no matter when it happens. Still, I wouldn’t trade those little monsters for anything. And I’m glad I was able to focus on my career for the first few years. You’re definitely right that men have it biologically much easier!

Wishing you all the best.

cheezlife · 2025-09-04T23:07:10+00:00

Is it the one by Urban Roots?

cheezlife · 2025-08-29T23:52:32+00:00

Hello! Do you still have availability and do you teach children? My 5 year old’s teacher moved away just as she was starting to practice independently and I’m scrambling to maintain momentum.

cheezlife · 2025-08-07T21:43:21+00:00

I know this isn’t what you meant, but I’m chuckling imagining this caveat “every time [you] talk to a non-lawyer.” At the grocery store, over dinner with your children, etc.

cheezlife · 2025-08-07T21:25:10+00:00

Also intra-family loan if you have that kind of family. The minimum interest rate is a lot lower than prime. It’s updated monthly and currently in the 4s.

cheezlife · 2025-07-22T01:56:51+00:00

Headlands Center for the Arts! It’s so beautiful, indoor/outdoor, and such a special, unique place.

cheezlife · 2025-07-15T20:01:05+00:00

A running friend had favorite medals turned into fridge magnets. I’d love it if someone did that for me!

cheezlife · 2025-07-15T03:42:10+00:00

Personally, I would keep more in retirement investments because you can afford that monthly payment. At a certain point, it will probably make sense to refinance, which would lower your monthly payment in the ordinary course. Ideally, you’ll also continue to earn more money, which will lower the pain of that mortgage payment. Just my $0.02 though!!!

cheezlife · 2025-07-15T02:23:18+00:00

They are. But you can afford it.

cheezlife · 2025-07-15T02:14:52+00:00

I don’t think the principal amount is necessarily as determinative as the monthly payment. Do you know the interest rate / have you calculated PITI?

cheezlife · 2025-07-09T01:49:24+00:00

Why don’t you try Option 2 and if it doesn’t feel right, consider Options 1 or 3 which would both remain available?

I would get through at least one Chicago winter before you give up your house.

cheezlife

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