My investment portfolio on date of May 23, 2016

Non registered Investments:
Stocks and Units investment portfolio $CAN
Timminco (TIMNF): $0.18
Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS): $7 192.26  
Blue Note Mining Inc. (BLNMF): $0.01
Hanwei Energy Services (HE): $12
Methanex Corporation (MX): $4 115.88
Fortis Inc. (FTS): $4 525.92
Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL): $18 170.46  
Just Energy Group Inc. (JE): $6 760.33
Pengrowth Energy Corporation (PGF): $566.43  
Enbridge Income Fund Holdings Inc. (ENF): $10 707.84
Corby Distilleries Limited (CSW.A): $2 347.40
Davis + Henderson Corporation (DH): $7 617.87
Premium Brands Holdings Corporation (PBH): $24 664.29
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $2 077.94
iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index (XRE): $2 513.28
Horizons Gold Yield Fund (HGY): $1 161.76
New Flyer Industries Inc. (NFI): $4 428
Colabor Group Inc. (GCL): $90.78
TMX Group Inc. (X): $418.40
K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL): $3 986
Westshore Terminals Invest Corp (WTE): $3 883.84
WesternOne Inc. (WEQ): $123.50
First Majestic Silver Corp (FR): $1 499
Kinross Gold Corp (K): $979.99
TransCanada Corp (TRP): $1 336
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $6 879.60
Enbridge Inc. (ENB): $1 478.96
Agrium Inc. (AGU): $2 987.66
Canadian Utilities Limited (CU): $1 520.40
Crescent Point Energy Corp (CPG): $482.90
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $2 321.40
Black Diamond Group Ltd (BDI): $134
Emera Inc. (EMA): $1 138.75
Cineplex Inc. (CGX): $1 287.25
BCE Inc. (BCE): $1 327.26
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $958.60
Saputo Inc. (SAP): $1 626
Lassonde Inc. (LAS.A): $1 735.50  
Loblaw Companies (L): $842.04
Lumenpulse Inc. (LMP): $813
 
TOTAL: $134 712.68   

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $US:
Sprott Physical Silver Trust ET (PSLV): $990.67
Cash: $4.12

TOTAL: $994.79 US ($1 306.76 CAN)
 
Tax-free savings account (TFSA):
EnerCare Inc. (ECI): $48.39
Dumont Nickel Inc. (DNI): $12.92
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $1 691.43
RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (REI.UN): $987.70
Precious Metals and Mining Trust (MMP.UN): $498.64
Sprott Inc. (SII): $2 701.65
Data Group Inc. (DGI): $10.47
AltaGas Ltd (ALA): $894.30  
CT Real Estate Investment Trust (CRT.UN): $1 482
National Bank of Canada (NA): $976.12
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $3 057.60 
Exchange Income Corporation (EIF): $7 239.54
Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation (FC): $523.60  
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (BIP.UN): $2 520  
Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P. (BEP.UN): $1 140.60  
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $1 898 
Laurentian Bank of Canada (LB): $988.60  
The North West Company Inc. (NWC): $1 451
Andrew Peller Limited/Andrew Peller Limitee Unlimited Class B Share (ADW.B): $1 770
Barrick Gold Corporation (ABX): 954.80 
Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM): $1 521 
Hydro One Limited (H): $2 424
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 129.60 Cash: $67.67
 
TOTAL: $35 989.63


RSP investment portfolio:  
iShares Gold Bullion Fund (CGL): $3 731.52
Emera Incorporated (EMA): $11 296.40
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $1 048.68
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $562.75
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 695
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $1 193.50
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $4 800
Telus Corp (T): $2 030
Stantec Inc. (STN): $1 043.20
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $3 672.50
Cash: $453.26
 
CIBC Dividend Growth Fund: $699.28
CIBC Emerging Markets Index Fund: $420.31
CIBC Monthly Income Fund: $1 272.27  

Energy and Base Metals Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $577.30
Natural Resources Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $502.45
 
GIC National Bank: $1 305.54
 
Manulife Fidelity NorthStar GIF CAP B: $1 188.90

Manulife Simplicity Growth Portfolio: $1 176  

Maritime Life CI Harbour Seg Fund: $1 154.18
Maritime Life Fidelity True North Seg Fund: $1 427.13
Manulife GIF MLIA B World Invest: $1 036.57 
Other various:  $7 633.82

TOTAL: $49 470.56
Social Capital at Desjardins Membership share: $35 
Savings + Stocks, units, mutual funds + Tax-free Savings account + RRSP:
$221 514.63

Something new for my RRSP portfolio: Whistler Blackcomb Holdings Inc. (WB)

I still didn't take time to update my investment portfolio and dividend income, but I estimate my net worth to be at least at $157 000. Its still going all that way up.

I was quite shock to learn that Russia had approached Justin Trudeau office to help stop the wildfire in Alberta... Can't the US provide their help instead? It would be a real shame to have Russian people help us. Vladimir Poutine is only doing this to give himself some kind of a capital leadership kingdom, but shame of him. Poutine needs to stay away from Canada or our country will become as shitty as his. Will Trudeau make the right decision for once?

Its quite strange knowing all the trouble going on in one of the richest places of Canada. It have absolutely no impact what so ever on myself, and not even on the value of my investment portfolio. As the summer shyly arrived, I am working hard at the gym to get the hot body of a little mermaid. However, today was quite cold in Montreal and in some places, they are expecting snow... So its not anytime soon that I will be able to show it all outside.

My very last investment was made in Andrew Peller Ltd (ADW.B). I used to have my eyes on Whistler Blackcomb Holdings Inc. (WB) and a Globe and Mail article just made me rethink about that stock now. I have close to $500 in RRSP cash inside my broker account. That money came from dividend distribution that didn't roll over to generate new stocks. I am tempted to invest in WB.

I am very glad that my portfolio is doing well because if not, I will be crying right now. And I have no time for desperation. I am currently working more than full-time, and on top of that I worked out 8 to 10 hours at the gym and I try to go to bed early not to brake down. Life is good and easy when my portfolio is on the high.

Fort McMurray devastation had no hard effect on the TSX, at least for now

What's going on in Fort McMurray right now seem to be so unreal. Its really sad that a place that been know for being a rich paradise for workers had turn into a fucking living hell. I am from New Brunswick and when you are from New Brunswick, you know for sure people how had been in Fort McMurray, made money and went back, or are currently living there. A lot of New Brunswickers went down West for jobs. And it was almost my case. While job searching many years ago, I was offered a secretary job in Alberta, in a real estate agency. I don't remember in which city it was. Anyway, I didn't go, and I don't have any regrets, especially now.

It seem like Fort McMurray sad events don't have any current effects over the TSX. I estimate my net worth to be of at least $156 000, which is strange, in many ways, because I am at my highest ever. Its not slowing down at work, I even have to do plenty of extra hours just to be able to make it. Seem to me like I will still be working full-time for at least the next 2 to 3 years ahead. I really need to be working full-time until I hit 40.

 

Its unfortunately in time like these that I congrad myself for not being a homeowner. When you get out of work and that your home is being destroyed, you can only rely on the money that you had put aside. Those who didn't made any savings are getting hurt very badly. They cannot fly away whenever its possible and relocated very easily. It doesn't worth it to have expensive furniture and have so many clothes that you don't have enough of a wardrobe to put all your stuff in. In modern days, less is more. Home and material things can be destroyed, but money and stocks remain yours, no matter what.

Welcome in my TFSA portfolio Andrew Peller Ltd (ADW.B)!

I didn't get the chance to blog about it, but I got my tax income done and completed about 2-3 weeks ago. For 2015, I made more than $65 000. I did a lot of overtime at work and I declare all of those extra working hours. I just had an extra $28 to pay back to Quebec province. And I am waiting a return of about $80 from the federal. I had a better life when I was earning half of that amount. I can get really frustrated over work and all of that overtime may be good for my pay, but its just not good for me. With all that money earn in 2015, I am finally about to welcome a new investment in my portfolio. I just place an order to buy some stocks of Andrew Peller Ltd (ADW.B) for my TFSA.

The weather had been super nice this weekend, making it even more difficult to blog or do anything that request to be in front of a computer for a few hours. With the TSX hitting to a close 14 000 points, things are doing great for my portfolio! I think my net worth could currently be of something like $155 000 right now. Too bad, but I didn't have time to post any portfolio update this weekend.

Check out this adorable YouTube video where you can see Joseph A. Peller himself receiving a kiss on the check from his son at the occasion of the opening of the TSX:

Joseph A. Peller passed away this year. Its his father, Andrew Peller, that started the company.

It seem like Peller wines are not available in Quebec province. Did you know that Wayne Gretzky has his own winery estate? Its actually a brand of Andrew Peller Ltd. You may like to learn more about Andrew PEller by clicking here and also here.

Good results on the TSX

I was quite happy yesterday when I saw that the TSX was closing at almost 14 000 points. The effect on my investment portfolio is showing. I estimated that I currently must be around a $157 000 net worth. 

I just got transferred Hydro One Limited (H) and Barrick Gold Corp (ABX) over my TFSA. I also got transferred $1 500 in cash so I can place my investment in Andrew Peller Limited/Andrew Peller Limitee (ADW.A). I like the name "Andrew Peller". The company is now at its third generation.

Its just too bad that Prince had to die when all those good things are happening.

Contribution in kind for my TFSA

If you taught that holding on to a $137 000 and something as non-registered portfolio was amazing, well you haven't seen nothing yet! My non-registered closed today session at $138 598.27. Highest ever! Hot hot hot! Sooo very close to 140k.

These days, the market is on my side and everything is simply amazing. I just keep beating over and over again my highest value... These times are great. I decided it was time to do something for my TFSA. I just transferred both Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) and Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM) investments that I hold inside my non-registered into my TFSA. It make a contribution of about 2k. And I have left more than 20k in TFSA contribution room. 

Another investment that I have in mind for another TFSA contribution in kind is Hydro One Limited (H) and Barrick Gold Corp (ABX). Following what, I hope to place a brand new investment in Andrew Peller Limited/Andrew Peller Limitee (ADW.A). 

I don't know if the markets will keep on that heaven road, but it feel good to be again on top of the game. The 200k net worth is not too far away. And during those wonderful times, Justin Trudeau is selling arms to Saudi Arabia. What is doing the NPD to stop that? We keep rolling and go to work, enjoy the markets like if nothing was wrong.

A new comer for my investment portfolio: Andrew Peller Limited/Andrew Peller Limitee (ADW.A)

Money is in the booze baby!

:-)

It seem like my $150 000 net worth is here to stay. My non-registered portfolio closed Friday session at $137 569.81. I now hold to $416.08 in cash inside my TFSA. I am in no hurry to place my next investment even if I should. I didn't invest in something new in a very long time. But no matter what, my portfolio value just keep going strong.

I guess you may had heard, Eric Sprott is back on the spotlight for investing in silver mine. But fact is, you know when Eric Sprott invest in something, but as soon he wil be selling, the stock price will drop and voilà. Its too risky. He may still be investing and playing with millions, but Eric Sprott is not the kind of investor you want to follow if you want to make money out of the stock market. Sprott make money by being a gambler, not an investor. I had a quick look at the mining company he's promoting, but no thank you. I already burn myself by investing in some Eric Sprott shit so I will pass on this one.

I prefer to invest in some stuff that I can trust and that I won't be scare losing my money in. My portfolio is large and invested in all kind of stuff that catch my interest over the years. Its getting harder to get something new in my portfolio because it appear to me that everything interesting is already in there. But nope, its not the case! There's always something interesting hiding somewhere on the stock market!

One my favorite alcoholic juice is Andres Fine Old Apera - it drink itself like juice with good booze,  its tasty and good. This Canadian Sherry is so very good. Its so good that I once check on the company that own it: Andrew Peller Limited/Andrew Peller Limitee (ADW.A). ADW.A is a family owned company with an interesting history.  

Andrew Peller Limited chart is sky rocking - exactly what I need for my portfolio. At not even 1.6%, the dividend yield is tiny little, however, because of the value it could bring in to my already good looking portfolio, I may finally move forward.

Welcoming a brand new $150 000 net worth

I hope you all had an Happy Easter. Mine was spent in New Brunswick. The weather was terrible on Friday Easter. While being stuck inside with nothing much to do, I did some cleaning in my old student stuff, like student loan papers that I no longer have to keep because the loans are now paid, etc. So many useless papers! I kept a few books and most of my courses paper because I didn't want to throw away that stuff. Overall, it has been a massive cleaning exercise that kept me busy for most part of the weekend and I am not even done with it. I still have a few boxes that I didn't look at and I have no ideas what can be in them... It will be a surprise for my next vacation in New Brunswick. Here in Montreal, I am pretty good at keeping just what I need partly because my apartment is small. Its crazy the number of papers we can accumulate on the long run.

At $137 020, my non-registered portfolio is still going strong. I am actually at one of my highest in a very long time! And its quite exciting because I found out today that my net worth is now of a great $150 760.97! It could even a bit more, but I didn't add the $1 600 of my banking account because it soon be gone on rent and credit card payment. No matter what, I am currently sitting on a $150 000 net worth! I wasn't expecting it to be so soon. Now, I can think of my first $200 000! Those are all very exciting and wonderful things. Its kind of funny that I reached $150 000 in net worth on April 1, but this is not an April fool, I promise!

In result, and to begin a new month the right way, I decided to pay a closer look at my expenses so I may place my next investment. I didn't invest in nothing new in quite sometimes. I still have thousands available in contribution room for my TFSA, which is a shame. I have left more than $24 000 left on my margin, transferring non-registered investment over to my TFSA is just the perfect time. I am looking for stocks with a low value increased so I won't have too much to pay in capital gains. Currently, my investments in Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM), Hydro One Limited (H) and Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) are good candidates for TFSA contribution in kinds.

My debt situation on date of April 1, 2016

$64 686.41 at 4.25% (margin money coming from my broker account) = 

$2 749.18 in annual interest

[In date of April 1, 2016]

My investment portfolio on date of April 1, 2016

On date of April 1, 2016:

Non registered Investments:
Stocks and Units investment portfolio $CAN
Timminco (TIMNF): $0.26
Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS): $7 086.23
Blue Note Mining Inc. (BLNMF): $0.01
Hanwei Energy Services (HE): $16.50
Methanex Corporation (MX): $4 272.44
Fortis Inc. (FTS): $4 558.40
Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL): $16 420.12
Just Energy Group Inc. (JE): $6 760.33
Pengrowth Energy Corporation (PGF): $380.01
Enbridge Income Fund Holdings Inc. (ENF): $10 283
Corby Distilleries Limited (CSW.A): $2 221.56
Davis + Henderson Corporation (DH): $8 322.60
Premium Brands Holdings Corporation (PBH): $25 238.85
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $1 686.32
iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index (XRE): $2 425.50
Horizons Gold Yield Fund (HGY): $1 135.18
New Flyer Industries Inc. (NFI): $3 599.64
Colabor Group Inc. (GCL): $99.96
TMX Group Inc. (X): $376.08
K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL): $4 400
Westshore Terminals Invest Corp (WTE): $3 565.90
WesternOne Inc. (WEQ): $117.80
First Majestic Silver Corp (FR): $843
Kinross Gold Corp (K): $682.52
TransCanada Corp (TRP): $1 239.25
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $7 297.20
Enbridge Inc. (ENB): $1 380.40
Agrium Inc. (AGU): $2 994.16
Canadian Utilities Limited (CU): $1 528.38
Crescent Point Energy Corp (CPG): $377.52
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $2 289.60
Black Diamond Group Ltd (BDI): $104.25
Emera Inc. (EMA): $1 205
Cineplex Inc. (CGX): $1 239.50
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $710
BCE Inc. (BCE): $1 306.80
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $948.80
Saputo Inc. (SAP): $1 635.60
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 121.80
Lassonde Inc. (LAS.A): $1 570.10
Loblaw Companies (L): $869.04
Lumenpulse Inc. (LMP): $812.50
Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM): $1 463.25 
Hydro One Limited (H): $2 435

TOTAL: $137 020.36

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $US:
Sprott Physical Silver Trust ET (PSLV): $954.56
Cash: $4.12

TOTAL: $958.68 US ($1 250.79 CAN)

Tax-free savings account (TFSA):
EnerCare Inc. (ECI): $45.81
Dumont Nickel Inc. (DNI): $14.35
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $1 614.90
RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (REI.UN): $930.30
Precious Metals and Mining Trust (MMP.UN): $384.56
Sprott Inc. (SII): $2 628.85
Data Group Inc. (DGI): $13.96
AltaGas Ltd (ALA): $973.50
CT Real Estate Investment Trust (CRT.UN): $1 440
National Bank of Canada (NA): $980.03
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $3 243.20
Exchange Income Corporation (EIF): $6 331.85
Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation (FC): $514.80
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (BIP.UN): $2 443.50 
Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P. (BEP.UN): $1 178.70
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $1 872
Laurentian Bank of Canada (LB): $950.20
The North West Company Inc. (NWC): $1 444.50

Cash:$395.96

TOTAL: $27 400.97

RSP investment portfolio:
iShares Gold Bullion Fund (CGL): $3 647.02
Emera Incorporated (EMA): $11 953.60
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $851.04
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $538.30
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 682.70
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $887.50
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $4 744
Telus Corp (T): $2 105
Stantec Inc. (STN): $1 035.20
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $3 600
Cash: $399 

CIBC Dividend Growth Fund: $681.70
CIBC Emerging Markets Index Fund: $439.65
CIBC Monthly Income Fund: $1 228.75 

Energy and Base Metals Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $577.30
Natural Resources Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $502.45

GIC National Bank: $1 305.54

Manulife Fidelity NorthStar GIF CAP B: $1412.78
Manulife Simplicity Growth Portfolio: $1 167.26 
Maritime Life CI Harbour Seg Fund: $1 161.52
Maritime Life Fidelity True North Seg Fund: $1 195.72
Manulife GIF MLIA B World Invest: $1 030.84 

Other various: $7 593.39

TOTAL: $49 740.26

Social Capital at Desjardins Membership share: $35 Savings + Stocks, units, mutual funds + Tax-free Savings account + RRSP:
$215 447.38

The very fabulous Dividend Girl

Ever since I return from Varadero, Cuba, my portfolio is going all the way up up up! My portfolio is now at $210 072.35. This leave me a net worth of $145 014.45. Having a financial blog is probably the best way to keep track of your "money" progress - start one now! According to my very own blog, I began the year 2014 with a net worth of $101 172.99. This is an increase of $43 839 in less than 2 years. I haven't invest much in the recent years, so some of my old stuff are performing well!

I would like to have a net worth of 150k for my 36th birthday. Even beautiful investors are getting older.

My investment portfolio on date of March 11, 2016

On date of March 11, 2016:

Non registered Investments:
Stocks and Units investment portfolio $CAN
Timminco (TIMNF): $0.26
Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS): $7 034.25
Blue Note Mining Inc. (BLNMF): $0.01
Hanwei Energy Services (HE): $16.50
Methanex Corporation (MX): $4 754.48
Fortis Inc. (FTS): $4 500.16
Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL): $16 404.03
Just Energy Group Inc. (JE): $6 666.48
Pengrowth Energy Corporation (PGF): $310.70
Enbridge Income Fund Holdings Inc. (ENF): $10 602.62
Corby Distilleries Limited (CSW.A): $2 269.96
Davis + Henderson Corporation (DH): $8 056.40
Premium Brands Holdings Corporation (PBH): $23 073.05
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $1 583.60
iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index (XRE): $2 391.62
Horizons Gold Yield Fund (HGY): $1 160.50
New Flyer Industries Inc. (NFI): $3 186
Colabor Group Inc. (GCL): $100.98
TMX Group Inc. (X): $354.88
K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL): $4 295
Westshore Terminals Invest Corp (WTE): $3 238.85
WesternOne Inc. (WEQ): $140.60
First Majestic Silver Corp (FR): $759
Kinross Gold Corp (K): $590.41
TransCanada Corp (TRP): $1 187.75
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $7 181.10
Enbridge Inc. (ENB): $1 432.20
Agrium Inc. (AGU): $1 980.54
Canadian Utilities Limited (CU): $1 491.84
Crescent Point Energy Corp (CPG): $402.60
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $2 330.94
Black Diamond Group Ltd (BDI): $128.75
Emera Inc. (EMA): $1 171.25
Cineplex Inc. (CGX): $1 245.25
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $738
BCE Inc. (BCE): $1 267.86
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $1 010
Saputo Inc. (SAP): $1 567.60
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 100.40
Lassonde Inc. (LAS.A): $1 550
Loblaw Companies (L): $845.40
Lumenpulse Inc. (LMP): $714.50
Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM): $1 454.40
Hydro One Limited (H): $2 400

TOTAL: $133 775.58

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $US:
Sprott Physical Silver Trust ET (PSLV): $949.85
Cash: $4.12

TOTAL: $953.97 US ($1 260.67 CAN)

Tax-free savings account (TFSA):
EnerCare Inc. (ECI): $46.95
Dumont Nickel Inc. (DNI): $14.35
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $1 631
RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (REI.UN): $934.50
Precious Metals and Mining Trust (MMP.UN): $382.72
Sprott Inc. (SII): $2 392.79
Data Group Inc. (DGI): $13.96
AltaGas Ltd (ALA): $979.50
CT Real Estate Investment Trust (CRT.UN): $1 447
National Bank of Canada (NA): $950.36
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $3 191.60
Exchange Income Corporation (EIF): $5 941.68
Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation (FC): $520
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (BIP.UN): $2 344.95
Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P. (BEP.UN): $1 152.60
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $1 905.80
Laurentian Bank of Canada (LB): $951.60
The North West Company Inc. (NWC): $1 569.50 

Cash: $354.10

TOTAL: $26 724.96

RSP investment portfolio:
iShares Gold Bullion Fund (CGL): $3 738.28
Emera Incorporated (EMA): $11 618.80
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $799.20
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $543.67
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 650.60
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $922.50
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $5 050
Telus Corp (T): $2 041.50
Stantec Inc. (STN): $966.40
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $3 665
Cash: $397.70  

CIBC Dividend Growth Fund: $680.92
CIBC Emerging Markets Index Fund: $434.01
CIBC Monthly Income Fund: $1 224.51

Energy and Base Metals Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $577.30
Natural Resources Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $502.45

GIC National Bank: $1 305.54

Manulife Fidelity NorthStar GIF CAP B: $1 394.44
Manulife Simplicity Growth Portfolio: $1 152.95
Maritime Life CI Harbour Seg Fund: $1 142.77
Maritime Life Fidelity True North Seg Fund: $1 211.20
Manulife GIF MLIA B World Invest: $1 007.25

Other various: $6 249.15

TOTAL: $48 276.14

Social Capital at Desjardins Membership share: $35 Savings + Stocks, units, mutual funds + Tax-free Savings account + RRSP:
$210 072.35

Overview of my financial situation from April 2015 to now

Yesterday, I update my portfolio holdings and my debt situation. I haven't post a portfolio update since April 2015. At that time, the TSX was showing off at 15 364 points. And of course, my portfolio has hitting on to its highest value ever registered. So for that reason, I of course post a portfolio update at that time. It was kind of an historic moment in my investment life. BUT following that, the market started acting all crazy again and I was no longer on top of my game. In response, I didn't post any investment update ever since. I mostly post an investment update when it strictly play in my only advantage and when I can shine as bright as gold. After all, I invest to make money, not to lose some! I prefer to stay quiet when the markets are volatile.

At 13 212.50 points, the TSX is far behind its old 15 000 marks. However, I was curious to see how good or bad I was overall, so I decided it was time to work on a new portfolio update, it was an emergency. Back in April 2015, my overall portfolio had a $205 871.46 value. On date of March 4, 2016, that value was at... ta-dam... $204 835.23, just a -$1 036.23 off, which is not so bad. As for my margin debt, its about the same as before. I hold about $65 000 in margin debt that I carry on my shoulders without any pain most of the time. Now, imagine what will be the value of my portfolio when the TSX hit back that 15 000 points! If only it could...

It take time, patience and extreme resilient to heal from massive crashes and since 2008, I didn't have it easy. How can a very middle class can even survive in this environment? There's no magic trick, if not to only have confidence in our on choices and power, and to always think that the market will eventually recover. Holding to mostly blue chips can certainly help on the long run.

Back in December 2015, my dividend earnings were at $6 128.80, and its currently of $6 128.97.

Overall, I am just glad that I am stable. Its a release to see that I am not facing big drop anywhere.

My debt on date of March 4, 2016

$65 057.90 at 4.25% (margin money coming from my broker account) = 

$2 764.96 in annual interest

[In date of March 4, 2016]

My investment portfolio on date of March 4, 2016

On date of March 4, 2016:

Non registered Investments:
Stocks and Units investment portfolio $CAN
Timminco (TIMNF): $0.24
Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS): $6 720.11 
Blue Note Mining Inc. (BLNMF): $0.01
Hanwei Energy Services (HE): $16.50
Methanex Corporation (MX): $4 738
Fortis Inc. (FTS): $4 396
Pembina Pipeline Corporation (PPL): $16 127.37
Just Energy Group Inc. (JE): $6 759.54
Pengrowth Energy Corporation (PGF): $298.75
Enbridge Income Fund Holdings Inc. (ENF): $10 354.83
Corby Distilleries Limited (CSW.A): $2 190
Davis + Henderson Corporation (DH): $8 188.40
Premium Brands Holdings Corporation (PBH): $20 657
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $1 562.2
iShares S&P/TSX Capped REIT Index (XRE): $2 342.34
Horizons Gold Yield Fund (HGY): $1 166.83
New Flyer Industries Inc. (NFI): $2 806.92
Colabor Group Inc. (GCL): $93.84
TMX Group Inc. (X): $347.44
K-Bro Linen Inc. (KBL): $4 549
Westshore Terminals Invest Corp (WTE): $3 173.44
WesternOne Inc. (WEQ): $163.40
First Majestic Silver Corp (FR): $646
Kinross Gold Corp (K): $599.47
TransCanada Corp (TRP): $1 231
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $7 088.40
Enbridge Inc. (ENB): $1 369.48
Agrium Inc. (AGU): $2 985.32
Canadian Utilities Limited (CU): $1 444.38
Crescent Point Energy Corp (CPG): $396.88
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $2 361.15
Black Diamond Group Ltd (BDI): $114.50
Emera Inc. (EMA): $1 149
Cineplex Inc. (CGX): $1 247.50
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $731.20
BCE Inc. (BCE): $1 264.56
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $934.60
Saputo Inc. (SAP): $1 572.80
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 073.20
Lassonde Inc. (LAS.A): $1 550
Loblaw Companies (L): $841.56
Lumenpulse Inc. (LMP): $792.50
Canadian Imperial Bank Of Commerce (CM) : $1 390.50 
Hydro One Limited (H): $2 340

TOTAL: $129 776.16

Stocks and Units investment portfolio $US:
Sprott Physical Silver Trust ET (PSLV): $965.55
Cash: $4.12

TOTAL: $969.67

Tax-free savings account (TFSA):
EnerCare Inc. (ECI): $47.46
Dumont Nickel Inc. (DNI): $12.92
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $1 673.64
RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (REI.UN): $918.75
Precious Metals and Mining Trust (MMP.UN): $388.24
Sprott Inc. (SII): $2 274.76
Data Group Inc. (DGI): $6.98
AltaGas Ltd (ALA): $991.50
CT Real Estate Investment Trust (CRT.UN): $1 460
National Bank of Canada (NA): $904.59
Canadian National Railway Co (CNR): $3 150.40
Exchange Income Corporation (EIF): $5 950.80
Firm Capital Mortgage Investment Corporation (FC): $519.60
Brookfield Infrastructure Partners L.P. (BIP.UN): $2 255.85 
Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners L.P. (BEP.UN): $1 152 
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $1 930.50 
Laurentian Bank of Canada (LB): $927 
The North West Company Inc. (NWC): $1601

Cash: $349.99

TOTAL: $26 515.98

RSP investment portfolio:
iShares Gold Bullion Fund (CGL): $3 775.46
Emera Incorporated (EMA): $11 398.08
EnCana Corporation (ECA): $788.40
Sprott Physical Silver Trust UTS (PHS.U): $557.88
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD): $1 609.80
Barrick Gold Corp (ABX): $914
Stella Jones Inc. (SJ): $4 673
Telus Corp (T): $1 958.50
Stantec Inc. (STN): $963.84
JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): $3 712.50
Cash: $397.70  



CIBC Dividend Growth Fund: $665.86
CIBC Emerging Markets Index Fund: $430.95
CIBC Monthly Income Fund: $1 207.68

Energy and Base Metals Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $577.30
Natural Resources Term Savings (Indexed term savings): $502.45

GIC National Bank: $1 305.54

Manulife Fidelity NorthStar GIF CAP B: $1 558.68
Manulife Simplicity Growth Portfolio: $1 156.13
Maritime Life CI Harbour Seg Fund: $1 146.04
Maritime Life Fidelity True North Seg Fund: $1 379.29
Manulife GIF MLIA B World Invest: $1 007.89

Other various: $6 249.15

TOTAL: $47 538.42

Social Capital at Desjardins Membership share: $35 Savings + Stocks, units, mutual funds + Tax-free Savings account + RRSP:
$204 835.23

My vacations at Mercure Playa de Oro in Varadero, Cuba - Part 1

I came back from my trip in Varadero last week. Going back to work in the snow, rain and slush was quite rough and it seem like I saw nothing yet because a big snowstorm is about to hit Montreal tonight. My portfolio is doing better now than before I left. My non-registered portfolio is now at a good $130 024.33. I should definitively go to Cuba more often! I have to say, during my week in Varadero, I went to Havana one day and there touch the water from a so call magic water fountain next to a church. And I sadly wish it all about money... but it seem to be working!

Here' the fountain:

I was in a hurry, with a tour guide, and some pictures are... dancing. But its all very authentic.

Vising a communist country where people live poorly and have access to barely nothing was never in my plans, and I am still against the principle, but my mother really wanted to go to Cuba, and I was the only one who could go with her. By visiting massively Cuba, foreigners encourage the current system. Cuban people are just too nice and sweat to begin a revolution and fight against their poor living conditions. They don't know anything else, but they are perfectly aware of what they don't have and don't have access to. This being said, Varadero and Havana seem to me like being 2 very safe place to visit. Cuban are poor, but there's no sign of any aggressiveness in them. They are happy people, but they are struggling to survive and to make ends reach. Havana is very magical and despite everything, I think we should all visit Havana at least one time in our life. I visit once, but it wasn't enough. I would like to spend a 5 days in Havana, maybe for a next trip, now that my portfolio is doing better. 

The good thing about Cuba is that trips in all inclusive resort are cheap. For a 7 days at Mercure Playa the Oro with Air Transat, I pay $929 + an $80 for insurance. So this was quite cheap in my sense. If I would had book one week earlier, I could had pay only something like $850.

My father suffer from severe asthma, so I didn't push for him to go with us. I had no idea how he could react to a hot environment and sincerely, if you are not in perfect health, don't go to Cuba, Mexico or any south destination. Since the environment is not the same, someone who is more vulnerable physically may catch some other type of germs to which him or her could react badly in reason of an existing sensibility. One thing for sure if you go to Havana and anyplace else in Cuba: don't drink any water. Asked for drink with no ice. Eat moderately. Water can be easily replace by Crystal beer or any delicious alcohol at any time of the day while being at the resort. And bring a thermo cup, coffee cup or something similar to keep your drink free of any sand.

I stayed at Mercure Playa de Oro located in Varadero Cuba for one week. The hotel was nice. Our room was actually nicer than the one and a half apartment I have in Montreal. I was in the room 1237. No hotel room was a direct view to the sea, even if the sea is about 5 minutes walk from the hotel. When we enter in the room the first day, a strong humidity smell came out from the room. We quickly open the patio door. After what, I check the bathroom - everything was fine. Toilet and shower in very good conditions, like new. We had a safe in the room, which was descent. The door of the room closed perfectly. We had to leave a towel on the ground while taking out shower because water was going on the bathroom floor, no matter what. There was a lot of humidity. Nothing would dry. We left the patio door open during out stay. Also, probably because of the strong humidity, we had some very small insects on the bathroom sink, but on the bathroom sink only. Not very much, but still noticeable despite being very small, maybe 1 mm. So we never left our toothbrush or anything in the bathroom.

Here are some pictures of the room 1237 of Mercure Playa de Oro:

The safe that work with the room card.

We had a nice TV in our room, we had a US and one French Quebec TV channel. But of course, we didn't watch a lot of TV. We were there for the beach! The beach next to the Mercure Playa the Oro was very nice, very clean. And when we hit the beach, usually, there was one hotel employee who asked were we wanted our chairs and brought it where we wanted. A real princess treatment.

The beach was very beautiful and the sea was nice.

However, there must some days had some beach bugs or something because I had some irritation at some points and I got a few bites on my sexy thighs. I no longer suffer from irritations but my skin is quite dry. During our first few days, it was really windy, I couldn't even wear my cute little beach hat. The sea was quite violent too. At the end of our stay, the earth elements finally became more human.

Brian Gallant is stealing the show at Tout le Monde en Parle. Way to go Brian!

New Brunswick economy never been on a golden road, and it seem like now more than ever, my hometown province is suffering from the current financial environment. Its a fun game when you have to leave your province just to be able to have a job and earn some money. At least, a compensation is coming forward for your favorite Dividend Girl as I am soon going to fly to Cuba Varadero for a week of sun, sea and beach.

New Brunwsick Prime Minister Brian Gallant was at Tout le Monde en Parle this evening - a popular French Quebec show. He was there to talk about Energy East project. He had an interesting talked. Oil need to travel in some ways. If its not pipeline, it will be by train. I know my home province is desperately in need of jobs, but I am not ready to accept Energy East project just because it will create jobs in New Brunswick. I cannot believe that we are still today rely so much on oil. No matter what, I am very proud of Brian Gallant, he did a nice job with that interview, New Brunswickers are being nicely represent. His job is so hard. New Brunswick has to deal with a lot of issues. Energy East is an easy solution for New Brunswick lack of economical prospect, but Brian Gallant needs to seek help somewhere else. There's no easy solution.

In the meantime, the TSX is not going through an easy time. I would just like to see a more stable stock market environment. It would make me feel less powerless. My non-registered portfolio is now at $124 348.94. Not too bad, I seen worst days.

I didn't have time to call back TD Direct to find out about JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) dividends that I never earned. Back in December 18, 2015, this was the announcement made for JFS.UN:

"For the Fund listed below (JFS.UN), the Estimated Special Distribution will be paid on or before January 15, 2016, to holders of record on December 31, 2015. The Estimated Special Distribution will be paid by the issuance of units of the Fund, and immediately thereafter, the issued and outstanding capital of the Fund will be consolidated such that the number of issued and outstanding units of the Fund does not change."

???

I understood from this that I was going to earned direct dividend. But it seem like I can only dream. It was too complicated for the JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) to please its investors.

Again, JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) playing with my nerves

Sorry to begin this new post this way, but I still didn't received my JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) dividend. Tomorrow, I am going to call again TD Direct and this time, I am going to push over the use of my sweetest, sexiest kitten voice ever and BEG for my dividend. PLEASE SIR. PLEASE!

One thing for sure, I am not going to give up on my JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) dividend.

Another short post.

JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN): where are my dividends from the January 15 special distribution???!!!

It was a released to see the TSX going back to almost 13 000 points. My non-registered portfolio almost closed at 125k. It actually closed at $123 656.42. The stock markets are playing with investor nerves. Its not a good financial environment. Its disgusting. And when I read articles like this one, it make me laugh. Life is getting more and more expensive, you can't never save ENOUGH money. It wasn't long ago when I saw cauliflower at $10 each... At that price, you better buy frozen ones. In my hometown in New Brunswick, grocery can get really expensive.

I am very very disappointed, I didn't received yet any dividend distribution for my JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) units. I should had received my dividend on January 15, $0.811 per units. I call TD Waterhouse to find out what was going on. As you know, I book a trip to Cuba and I especially need my money now. 

See, this is the reason why you always need to always check on EVERYTHING. I like to note in my agenda my upcoming distribution date. Because distribution date = fresh new cash to pay for my diet pills, makeup, anti-cellulite cream and so on. :-)

I just hang up the phone with TD Waterhouse - which is no longer TD Waterhouse, but I found that name much more elegant than just a boring TD Direct. The broker create a ticket and I need to call back in 2 business days to find out what's going on. This is the first time that I am not receiving expected payment. So I wonder if its not a problem going from JFS.UN, who suddenly decided to keep the money in their pockets. I had received some JFS.UN special distribution in the past, but not this year. I am upset. And all that for a bit more than $230... What can I say? I want my every pennies. That amount is actually paying a part of my Cuba trip, so sexy keep running for money wherever it can be found.

I will of course keep you update regarding the situation with JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN).

The only condition to received JFS.UN special distribution was to be holder of units since December 31, 2015.

You don't need Weight Watcher to lose wait, common sense is the key

My non-registered portfolio closed today session at $119 098.23 - which is way better than what I had been on lately. These days, I spend a lot of time at the gym and a lot less in from of my laptop. Its been announced that Weight Watchers stocks jumped after Oprah announced losing 26 pounds on the program. To lose weight, eat less, and go to the gym every single evening of the week. No need to enroll in an expensive problem like Jenny Craig or Weight Watcher. Keep your money for investment purposes, no Weight Watcher super junk weight loss program.

This post was short.

All in a bad day for the stock market

While the TSX kept losing points like crazy, I was at work, and following that, I hit the gym. As I was upset because the TSX went all down, I burned down 700 calories and went back home. At a point, I taught that the TSX was going to hit the 10 000 points, it was going all the way down, what a misery. The weather is quite cold in Montreal these days so I am quite happy to be able to move my booty at the gym rather than outside. Imagine, I train at the gym 2 hours everyday.

This being said, my non-registered closed this bad day at $114 245.91. I did not received yet any special dividend distribution from the JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN), I am still waiting.

Thank you JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) for the special dividend distribution

Rough day on the stock market as the TSX closed today session under the 12 000 points. In result, my non-registered portfolio finished the day at $112 999. But I have at least a good news, the JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) is about to pay a massive special dividend to its investor: $0.811 per unit. It may sound like its nothing at all, but its not. I hold some JFT Strategies Fund (JFS.UN) units inside my non-registered portfolio, TFSA and RRSP. Only from my non-registered and TFSA, I will be earning $234.38. I just wonder if the distribution will DRIP or not - and I hope not because I need money!

I currently hold $262.84 in cash inside my TFSA. With that extra $234.38 coming it, its about half of my Cuba trip that will be paid off. Recent reviews on Tripadvisors.ca of the resort I book continue to be so-so. I bought a little first aid kit as well as stuff against the mosquitoes - just in case. I also brought some Imodium (!!!) and Benadryl pills, and Advil as well. I don't want anything bad to happen, but at a point, there's nothing much I can do.

While the TSX seem going all the way down, I continue to train daily at the gym. I can do more than 2 hours without any pain now, which wasn't the case last week. I like the gym machines because they show how much calories are burn. This evening was a good 700 calories burn. While burning calories, I don't think of all the money I lost, had lost, or will lost on the stock market. I walk/run, walk/run and I sweat a lot, but I don't get to think a lot. Its the beauty of training. After work, if you train let say like me 2 and a half hour, following that, you won't have much time left to see how bad is going your portfolio and trust me, it might be better this way.

Personally, I would like to invest again in one of my longtime favorite, CNR.

These days, the stock market doesn't deserve any attention

This past Friday, my non-registered portfolio closed the session at a horrible $115 282.07. 

If I don't write a lot lately, its because I am very busy. Its busy at work, but I try to leave as soon 5 pm arrived so I can hit the gym and burn some calories before hitting to... Varadero Cuba. 

I registered to my local Econofitness and I had been working out every single day ever since, at the exception of today, because the gym is closed on Sundays. Working out is like a drug., but a good one. Its easy to get in the rhythm of work-gym-bed time. I really like working out.

I am expecting to continue even following my Cuba trip - if I ever come back lol.

The stock market is very disturb. In the meantime, I prefer to put my energies someplace else other than watching the tragedy taking place. I barely pay attention to what is going on right now, believe it or not. My portfolio can go as low as it wanted too, as long I can cover my margin account, I will have the rest of my life to recover. 

Things are extremely shacked up because, among other, the drop in the value of oil. CNR, RY, could worth right now the investment. It take a lot of resilience to invest in those down markets. Its when the markets are down that we need to invest - try to remember that.

I am getting my suitcase for Cuba ready.

How to deal with yourself when the stock market becomes frightening: investors don't panic

These days, the stock market is a rough place to be. My non-registered portfolio closed the session at $117 577.57. Its better than the 116k I was on not too long ago. During those hard time, its important to stay a bit detach. Of course, we all follow our stock, but it shouldn't be of a great concern when the markets are down. Its not anytime soon that the markets are going to recover. I never saw such terrible financial conditions since I started investing. Its frightening and its ugly.

While dealing with problems that never seem to come to an end, its important to stay focus on other things, if not, its going to be ugly. We all take at heart our finance, but there's when nothing much can be done. As for myself, I decided to let it go. I let my portfolio take whatever direction it want. Despite my detachment, I can feel your pain, I can feel my pain. And its quite of a maybe too hard symbolic to learn that someone like David Bowie died recently. He must have been a good fellow. What a voice and what an enigmatic star.

Now is the perfect time to invest your time and energy in all kind of activities. Now more than ever, its a good time to do it like a Dividend Girl:

-plan a cheap trip (like in Cuba, like I am doing now).

-do an in deep cleaning of your house/apartment (I did so the weekend ago).

-sort your clothes and give away things you don't wear anymore (done!) 

-registered to a gym and train (I registered this evening after work to Econofitness, tomorrow will be my first ever gym session!)

-read a good book

-start a blog (like me!)

 

 As you know, I book a week at a Varadero, Cuba resort and ever since, I am checking the reviews on TripAdvisor. Most of the reviews are good, but in the last one or two, its been said that some rooms got in fire following a storm and left tourists without electricity. True or not? Its barely possible to know. I gave a call to Air Transat, and from their ends, everything is ok with that resort... So I really don't know, but I am bringing a little flashlight with me in my backpack, who knows, I might need it. 

I have more than one month still left before leaving for Varadero, but I am already preparing my stuff. Once I will be back, you'll know where I had been. I will do a full completed post on my experience. Until that time, I am getting ready.

Regarding the currency, its better to bring in Canadian cash rather than US one. The money bills need to be in good shape - like new - so that way, they won't be refused. According to Air Transat, the best place to exchange the money is at the hotel (CADECA?), where they have a place there to exchange money - their rate is lower than the one at the airport - but that is difficult to know.

Yesterday evening, I was at the Trudeau airport - my brother was taking a plane to go to New Brunswick. As I left him so he could take his plane, I stopped by Currency Exchange ICE and just for fun, I asked about CUC Pesos. Its coming, soon they will offer it. The rate is $1.60 for 1 CUC - which is very expensive. Currently, $1,42 = 1 CUC.

That is for Cuba news for now.

In a desperate stock market environment, real cash is hard to save

Today was supposed to be an important day. I was supposed to hit the gym (yes!), but before going, I check online, and the local Econofitness where I wanted to registered was closed... Too bad! I was going to respect one of my many New Year resolution, but it just didn't happen. At least not today.

However, I did exercised anyway, despite the rain. I went for a walk on the Mont-Royal Avenue. On my way back, I stop by the Renaud-Bray library on Saint-Denis to read magazines, like I usually do, and to my surprise, I saw a "Quebec celebrity" with his young baby: Guy A. Lepage. I wasn't sure if it was him or not, but I check later on his Twitter account, and I saw that he had post a message about pushing a stroller... and taking note of all the stores that are closed in the Plateau Mont-Royal... It was the man. People left him alone. Only New Brunswickers like myself can get really excited when seeing a celebrity! hahaha! And it honestly very often happen when I am at my worst, wearing   jogging and no make-up on because its Sunday. I didn't learn my lesson yet. 

Plateau Mont-Royal is among one of the most expensive places in Montreal, its not a surprise that many stores have to closed. Rent for business owners might be extra expensive. At a point, there's too many restaurants and little boutiques, all cannot survived. And I think that this reality will be more present in 2016. As the stock market go down, people are getting scare and spend less. Its actually how I react to the very stressful climate we are in right now. Its not something that will be fix overnight. Some compare what we are living right now to 2008 but its far different. 2008 was about the US mortgage crisis. Lately, we had been facing a big drop in the value of oil, many jobs lost in Western Canada, China is coming out with a bunch of new problems that we never had to deal before - or choose to ignore. In all this what 2016 will be like? What I feel is that 2016 will be another very rough year.

You can imagine, now more than ever before, I am extra careful with my spending and I am currently writing down in my agenda how much I am spending and for which purposes... It could seem quite drastic, but I lost thousand of dollars on the stock market alone, I had book a trip to Cuba in February, and I am trying to put away some cash that would eventually stay in my bank account... Possible or not? Montreal itself doesn't make it an easy place to save money. It need a lot of self-control. Everything become possible only from the minute you put time and efforts into it. For the week of January 3th, I spent $120.73.

I don't have any formal cash reserved; its been the cased for the several past years. My dividend earnings bring in some cash, but all the extra money I earned in the past years went directly to buy new investments or to pay down some debt. I would like to have a couple thousands saved at the bank. My worst fear would be to have to sell some of my investments to cover some emergencies spending. Be 100% invested is not a good thing, for the simple reason that money is always and will always be needed. This is really not easy for me because the thrill of my next investment move is what used to keep me going. But in a market with such volatility, its my own little world that is collapsing under my feet and its not fun. Its not fun at all.

Varadero Club Karey for as low as $529 with Air Transat: is there a catch?

The stock market keep going ugly and uglier each day! My non-registered portfolio closed today session at... are you ready... a super low $116 973.90. For once, I will be happy when my portfolio will be back again at $120k... 116k is my new low. Its certainly not a good time to be an investor, but its a good time to go to Varadero, Cuba with Air Transat!  I have a fun time checking on all included resort. Some trips are really cheap... but hotel review are really bad. If you are adventurous, you can always go to Club Karey located in Varadero, a 3 stars resort. Air Transat currently offers 7 nights, all included to Club Karey for only $529... One reviewer had described Club Karey as a Al Capone resort... But there are also good reviews. From what I saw, Club Karey in Varadero is a big no-no. I don't even understand why Air Transat is offering such a disgusting resort option to its clientele.

If you shop around for trips, always add $100 on top of the trip fee - it will give you an idea of how much it will cost. You cannot entered Cuba without showing a proof that you have health insurance. I am keeping a look at the reviews online for the resort I book. I saw one bad review, but some others are really good so I no longer know what to think! It will be a surprise! A f amazing surprise LOL.

In times like these, its better to stay away off the market, completely off, and stay away from any laptop, computer, tablet or cell phone. Cuba is the perfect place to be, its almost impossible to place trades from there, as Internet connection appeared to be slow and access very limited. Can you truly imagine living in a place where WiFi is not available????

I continue my preparation for my trip. I stop by an Exchange Currency spot, but there, I learn that Cuba pesos is a restricted currency and that it can only be purchased at Cuba. I wanted to have a few 1 pesos because I read that its impossible to get small dollar bills at the hotel. Don't expect me to tip $5 each time. I am losing money like crazy right now, I am poor too! Isn't a good excuse not to give any money tips? I won't be making any friends in Cuba, that's for sure! Cheap cheap poor Canadian tourists. I plan to bring a couple of things for the room maids and leave a little something on the bed each day. But don't expect much coming from a broke Dividend Girl!!! 

In the meantime, I am watching closely my expenses. I spent a bit more than $1 000 on my Cuba trip, insurances included. My mom left me with many frozen stuff - she had cook many things while I left her alone during the day - because I was at work. In result, I have all my lunches for next week done and best of all, I still have some groceries left. I will try to spend not more than $300 for what we have left of January. My expenses in December went up quickly, with Christmas gifts, bus ticket to New Brunswick, and the week with my mother in Montreal...

Money is flying away these days and the stock market is not helping me in any ways.

Varadero, Cuba: be ready, I am coming!

As the TSX keeps going down, I am preparing my first Cuba trip with my mother. We plan to go sometime in February. These past days, I had been checking Air Transat Web site. You just need to click there to book your next getaway! The resort I spot was about $100 cheaper last week... I have to do quickly!

I plan to go to Varadero, in a little resort well located, closed to Varadero airport and, most important, close to the beach. I have to say, I wasn't very excited to go to Cuba this year when my mom present the idea, but now, I am into it. Especially when its -16°C outside. All included insurance (which is needed), is $95 (taxes include). The trip itself, including insurance, is, at this time, a bit more than $1 000. But prices vary day-to-day. 

Its very simple to book a resort package. You pick your week, the city and your hotel, everything is included. You call Air Transat and you book over the phone with a credit card. You get the tickets by email, one month before the trip. And you need to be at the airport 3 hours before the flight.

I need to quickly confirm my vacation and closed the trip as soon as possible. Prices are very expensive in March!!

Finest Sherry ever: Regency Fine Old, Canadian Apera, Fortified Wine, 20% alc.: drink your life while you can

Sometimes in 2016, I will be turning 36.

(Off topic).

When its a cold -17°C outside, that Montreal sidewalks are on ice and that the TSX closed at less than 13 000 points, when all of those events happened on the same day, well, in such a day, you have the right to finish the day with a glass of sherry, or a beer if you don't have anything else, in front of your laptop. Its what I am doing right now. Not that I am trying to escape from the reality, but I am seeking for a consolation price. While the world is all falling apart, the worst is to follow it.

The year 2016 start the wrong way.  I didn't update my portfolio in a very long time but since April 2015, the TSX just kept going down. In the real life, the TSX is a hard place to be. It take good nerves. But its how it goes. In some years, the TSX is heaven, in other, hell, and in some other, you can only dream you would had never EVER invested a single penny out there.

(If you ever get tired of the present post, you can always tune to this one).

I do no longer update my portfolio online because in that fantastic month of April 2015, I was on top of my game. I was at my highest value ever registered. I did not update my portfolio because ever since, the value of it went down. I never again exceed that value, but I have a lifetime to recover.

In the meantime, following Christmas, the holidays, and my mother visit in Montreal for the New Year Eve, better watch out, Santa Close is out, but debts are in! Not exactly debt, but the credit card statement in coming and it need to be pad on January 11.

After surfing on a very difficult year on the stock market, trust me, it won't be very difficult for those who are extra serious investors to respect a very tight budget in order to pay debt, or inject fresh hot new money into a portfolio or to pay down an investment margin.

Currently, I am doing all right, I always said that I was feeling ok with a margin usage of 65k - but not everywhere exceeding it. And currently, I am at $64 512.17. And I also always said that I was feeling comfortable with a margin left-over of at least 13k. And my margin left-over is exceeding a bit 13k. Everything is awesome. But I want more money, I need a net worth of at least 200k to be happy. There's no magic trick. With an annual salary of something like 50k, choices need to be made. Never forget, life is a bitch and is hard. But who can you beat if its not yourself?

I came with this budget:

Monthly living budget:
Rent: $635
Internet: $48.50
Cell phone: $40.24
Coffees: $51
Grocery: $320
Entertainment: $76
Total: $1 170.74 x 12: $14 048.88

This is the budget for my basic covering needs - this doe not include: my Cuba trip sometime in February, my numerous visits to my hometown province, gifts, clothes, hair cut, coloration... Life is expensive, but only your personal choices will make of you a loser or a winner, not the market TSX ugliest bitch on earth.

Happy New Year 2016 Investors!

Finally, 2015 is now part of the past forever! 2015 had been very rough. The stock market had been too volatile. There was nothing that could be enjoyed. Until April 2015, everything was super great, but following that... NIGHTMARE. Ohhh my goshhh!

I haven't wrote anything in a little while, I was away on vacation during Christmas week and after that my mom came from New-Brunswick to spend a week in Montreal with me. We have a nice time. As we arrived at Berri-UQAM bus station, we needed to take a taxi to go to my apartment. But there, it was a bit crazy, taxi drivers were fighting to take us. One of them had his hand on my bag and my mother began to freak out as two taxi drivers were fighting over us. I told to the fucker to leave us alone. My mom was disturbed by the incident, but I told her that while facing disturb people like that, you need to scream and fight back. Stuff that she's not use to in our very peaceful, perfect and wonderful New Brunswick province. And to that she replied: what would you had done if he had continue? I told my mom very seriously: I would had punch him in the face! She was surprised by the answer and laugh hard. Ahahah! I always dream to have the opportunity to beat up someone one day, but for a good reason. If someone attack my mother, no discussion, you'll see hell. I have an angelic look, but I am no angel, and I don't have any mercy. I could eventually be an excellent drug dealer, among other.

Now, this being said, this incident speak to itself. In 2016, we'll need to fight in different ways in our life. We'll need to handle the rise cost of food, and probably again in 2016 the volatility of the stock markets. We'll need to spend our money wisely. And more than ever before, it will be very important to save money and pay debt. Its been said that paying down debt is among Canadians top financial resolution for 2016 and its a great thing that it is.  

My non-registered portfolio closed 2015 session at only $121 406.07. To talk seriously, I am getting very tired of the stock market. When I invest, its to shine, not to feel like shit. While investing, I want to feel important and be on top of my game. But lately, nothing good from the market is coming for me so I will need to find love and valuation someplace else.

I am personally getting ready for another difficult year on the market.