My most sincere thanks for those of you who have extended their condolences about my mom. The illness was sudden when it came on a couple years ago, but it gave me and my family time to accept it, begin the grieving process, and say goodbye when the time came. She's were I get my drive as a runner, to "keep going" when I'm hurting, and to not make excuses when things don't go my way. I miss her every day.
Also, very much appreciated is the advice on spending and managing the money. The home repairs (paint, windows) have been put off a long time. Windows are all original, and are drafty, and some rotting. The house is long overdue to be painted, we've put it off to have the roof redone and the foundation repaired. The car loan is one year into a four year loan of about $18G. The car is nothing special, but I need reliable transportation for my family and I, and considering our other vehicle (paid off long ago) is 11 years old. My previous car was 15 years old and had 250,000 miles. I take care of my cars and make them last.
I came to Lets Run for advice on this because frankly I've been having trouble making relevant and important decisions recently. I'm getting help for this. Immediately after the loss of my mom I got an awful running related injury that required surgery and will require four months of recovery. Throughout my life I have used running to help manage the stress in my life, and this time I'm unable to. I'm lucky to have a very supportive family and wonderful friends who have been there for me. Very lucky.
Thank you all.