Future Housing Situation

Future Housing Situation (Life Update)

Tomorrow, July 1st, marks my one-year anniversary at my current residence!

I’ve gone through some tough times — I was nearly homeless in Fall 2023 and again this past summer (2024). But I’ve been working hard to keep things stable, especially so my son can continue attending the same school in the Sunnyside Unified School District.

As I shared in a past blog, I made a major shift: I let go of having a car, stopped driving for Uber, and went back on Social Security Disability Income. At the same time, I’ve been working toward becoming a paid caregiver — something I already do informally. I’ve completed the background check and received my Arizona Fingerprint Clearance, so I’m getting close.

I’m 40 years old, with less than $5,000 to my name (actually to Malik's name under me in the AZ ABLE account) and a credit score that still needs improvement. But tomorrow, July 1st, marks a major milestone: my first full year in this apartment — and for the first time in my life, I’ve made every single rent payment on time.

That might not seem like much to some people, but for me, it’s a big win. In the past, balancing inconsistent income, Uber driving, and full-time care for my son made it difficult to stay on top of rent. A lot of things were outside of my control. But this past year, I stayed focused — and I made it work.

That said, I know we can’t stay in this one-bedroom apartment forever. My son is growing fast, and we’ll eventually need more space. A few years ago, I was all in on the idea of homeownership. Now, I’m more focused on stability and what makes sense for our current situation.

If I ever upgrade to a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment, I know the rent will go up — probably every year. And if I ever consider buying a home, it would require a serious investment and much better credit — whether renting or owning, credit matters.

I’m grateful for my SSDI and my son’s SSI, but our current income just isn’t enough to move up right now. I’m definitely open to finding new sources of income — but I’m not going back to Uber or gig work. That lifestyle doesn’t provide the structure or security we need.

As for a job? I’m open to it — as long as IT'S THE RIGHT FIT FOR OUR LIVING SITUATION. If it doesn’t support our stability, I’m not taking it. Simple as that.

I’m still in the process of becoming a paid caregiver through DDD, and I plan to make the most of that opportunity while it’s available. It fits our life well, and every bit of support makes a difference right now.

Lately, I’ve even thought about trying to sell my stories online — though I’m not sure who would actually buy them. Still, I’m exploring ideas. I’m trying to restore my financial stability and build something that allows my son and me to keep growing together.

Truthfully, I don’t know what the future holds for me in Tucson. Florida is my hometown, and the only reason I’m still here is because of my son. For now, I’m focused on building a life that supports his needs and makes sense for us both.

I’m 40 now, and realistically, I’ve got maybe 20 to 25 good working years left. A stable retirement is the long-term goal.

Thanks for reading — and if you have any feedback or constructive criticism, I’m open. I’m just trying to stay grounded, learn, and keep growing.