Catherine Morales

Co-signing the lean palette but if you want those juicy, flowing washes, put a chunk of your budget into 100% cotton paper - it makes even modest paints look and behave better. For paints, a tiny artist-grade primary set (a transparent yellow, quinacridone rose, and phthalo blue) plus burnt sienna will beat a big 24-color student kit for mixing and vibrancy; honey-based pans rewet easily for short window sessions but then skip bundle brushes and grab one good synthetic round in size 8 or 10 and maybe a small flat - way more satisfying.

Solid plan and two quick add-ons: if your federal loans could qualify for PSLF or other forgiveness, skip extra principal and pay the minimums. Turn on autopay for the 0.25% rate reduction and put that savings toward the emergency fund. When you pivot to the down payment and map out PMI breakpoints and closing/move-in costs so you don’t end up cash-poor right after closing.

Haha and resetting routines sounds great on paper, but let's be real, those fancy planners and charts are just colorful distractions that end up collecting dust. I've tried it all, and the only thing that sticks is admitting you're human and starting with zero expectations. Doubt those three alarms will save you. maybe try laughing at yourself when you snooze and gently nudge into a walk anyway.