(oh, I know. I mentioned gender on the Internet. Everyone, attack!)

Thanks for picking me as runner-up – seems appropriate since I talk about winning tickets and how most people don’t participate in contests If you enter, chances are – you might win!

thanks for the contest.

Elizabeth’s was produced well. I think her story is more common–still having a mortgage. Therefore, Ian’s story was more of an inspiration.

Anthony: I used this strategy while we were in debt. I only put the amount of debt on the card that I knew I’d be able to pay off in one year (and we’re out of debt-never to return, hopefully). I don’t think these offers are as common as he suggests.

I only watched one other of these videos and that one was not videoed well… I think you should specify (before the contest starts) a percentage you’ll give for different qualities. For example 50% of the score based on content; 25% based on film quality; 15% creativity; 5% what you liked; 5% useful to audience.

Not interested in listening to rap but I suggested the budget video (also didn’t watch) to some friends who maybe just don’t understand written encouragement and learn in a visual way.

Andy did have a good list but I don’t think the filming was that great. Didn’t watch any of the others. They did seem rather targeted to a small sector of people.

Were there any website runner up’s?

Sorry, I know JD was fair and impartial – because he’s JD – but that’s where my brain goes when I see 3 first-place men and lots of women runner-ups!

Lo-Wa – Working at a restaurant has a few perks…like eating there for free instead of buying one of your daily meals at all (free is even cheaper than ramen).

JL – To me, the key to building a house is to spend the money on the things that are important to you. I would encourage you to take a look at the Not-So-Big House series of books for ideas. The other way to save, of course, is to do the work yourself instead of hiring it out. I realize that isn’t feasible for everyone, but it can keep a ton of money in your pocket and give you a lot more connection to the house as well.

I’ve heard it costs more to build than buy. How did they avoid running into construction and budget issues? How were they able to keep costs down? Well done, everyone!

I love stories like Ian’s. If he’s willing to share them with us, I would very much like to hear more details about how he economized while saving up money by bar tending and eating ramen noodles.

I am pretty darned good about managing my money, but Ian seems very resourceful and it would be awesome if he’d share his wisdom here!

Even though I got edged out, I have to say the winning videos are all epic. I particularly enjoyed Kevin’s rap and Chip’s Pword videos. When I saw those, I knew I was done for!

Enjoyed participating in the contest and I appreciate the honorable mention.

Cheers,
Bill

Don’t forget to look out for Geezers in your lives!
- Chip

Great video!

I like the way you were able to capture on film each individual step.

Your self relant approach is inspirational.

Have you read “Self-Reliance” by Ralph Waldo Emerson?

J.D. – I would love to read Ian’s story here if he agrees to write about it!