Setting Goals -- and Scoring Them on eBay

For the last 8 months or so, my husband and I have been on a campaign to rid ourselves of payments...forever. We were not drowning in debt, but we were tired of feeling that our finances told us what to do, instead of the other way around. 

With this new goal -- coupled with food prices going up (and me with two pre-teen boys to feed!), not to mention gas -- I've turned into a big bargain shopper. Shopping on eBay has always been routine, but as every dollar has taken on new importance in the budget, I've learned to appreciate eBay in a deeper way.  I've been buying more practical items, shopping earlier for the boys' school clothes (mostly good, used items), looking for bargains on gifts, etc. For many readers, I know this is your routine, but for me, having a vision of something I was working towards unleashed a frugal and resourceful side of me that I didn't know I had. 

After 9 months, we've met our first big goal, and now our only payment is the mortgage. It feels great!  Having goals makes all the difference....

So I'm curious -- how many readers are working towards some personal goal that eBay is helping you achieve?  Are you saving for a career change?  To buy a new house? To fund a trip around the world?  To send your kids to college?  I'd like to share your story, so write us at chatterblog@ebay.com!