October Reset: My Plan to Level Up Finances & Fitness This Month
- RachaelGiffen

- Oct 3, 2025
- 2 min read
Hello, friends, and Happy Friday
Can you believe we’re already in October? It’s that perfect reset moment before the holidays kick in full force. This month, I’m doubling down on two big goals: financial momentum and body recomposition (
January beach vacay is looming). Below, I’m sharing exactly what I’m doing, where I’m headed this weekend, and how I’m planning to close out the year strong.
💰 Finance Focus: Building Momentum, Planning Ahead
1. Add a Christmas line item to the budget
It might feel early, but with just a few months left in the year, now’s the time to start earmarking funds for holiday spending. I’ve added a “Christmas Gifts ” category to my monthly budget. Even a modest, consistent allocation (say $100–$300/month, depending on your situation) can prevent December from looking like a financial scramble.
2. Passive income goals & down payment build
Everything extra goes toward growing passive income and building toward my down payment for an investment home. Basically: surplus money isn’t being spent , it’s being invested.
I’m using Robinhood to channel those extra funds. If you want to try it too, here’s my link: https://join.robinhood.com/rachaeh26
3. Wins this week: +$2,600 growth
This week was a big one, I saw an uptick of $2,600 in growth across my investments. It’s not a guarantee it happens every week, but it’s a strong reminder: compounding works, and momentum matters.
🏋️ Fitness Focus: Cutting for the Beach
January beach trip = full cut mode activated. Here’s how I’m attacking it:
Cardio (30–60 min daily):
Cycling
Walking
Elliptical
Strength (30 min):
Focus on compound movements for max efficiency. Here’s a sample workout:

I rotate in accessory work (lunges, glute bridges, face pulls) as needed, but these big lifts form the backbone of my strength.
Nutrition note: I’m keeping protein high, eating a moderate caloric deficit, and prioritizing whole foods + fiber to feel full.
📆 This Weekend in Southern Oregon
Here are some of the fun happenings around the Rogue Valley and Southern Oregon this weekend.
Talent Harvest Festival in Talent: local artisans, food, live music. Great for strolling and discovering unique finds.
My Weekend Plans
Saturday: You’ll find me at soccer games with the kids (lots of cheering, snacks, halftime walks).
Sunday: Family day (my favorite) we’re heading to Ft. Vannoy Farms to soak in autumn scenery, grabbing pumpkins, checking out the corn maze, and the kids’ favorite The Cow train (roller COWster, if you will) .
❤️ Why This Matters
October is your chance to reset , not by making sweeping changes, but by setting the scaffolding now (budget lines, habits, systems). When December comes, you won’t be scrambling. And when January’s New Year’s resolution arrive, you’ll be in a better place physically and financially.



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