[redbaron]

Sounds like great timing for the first job for sure. I can definitely see the physicality of massage therapy being too much especially when you're already exhausted!

[Epaphras]

Thanks for the input, everyone.

I have my annual review next week, so I will see what kind of bonus/raise I'm looking at and how that will impact the forecast. I also have some savings bonds from my grandparents that are fully mature and have indeed exceed their total face value. Throwing all of that on the debt plus applying my raise amount to it, plus my wife's paychecks, should have it all paid off in November or December without having to forfeit the employer match to my 401(k).

The best part of this deal is that I get 50% of my tuition payments back to me by my employer. In the past I used the refund to help for the next semester, but as I'm graduating in December, my last reimbursement check will be straight to our savings. We'll also be able to save more money instead of deferring it to pay for tuition each semester. Plus, if our baby comes in December, I've calculated that we'll get 100% of our federal withholding back, plus the child tax credit. All of that will help start our house downpayment fund (1-2 years down the road at least)! This is why being debt-free is fun: you get to keep your own money.