Yes @sequentialvibe, the extension cost has become very high!! Last month I timed my extensions when the price of STEEM fell to around $3.20 and that helped a lot.

Increasing your own SP is the best way to have a secure income from Steem, it's a longer route, but much more rewarding in the end!

Thanks for sharing your goals and aspirations! I'm rooting for your success and know that you'll achieve whatever you set your mind to! Keep up the good work!