Personal Finance for Young Professionals
Not long ago I got the first of several high school graduation announcements in the mail. They came from distant family members as well as local friends. My guess is that several of these young people will be moving on to college in the fall. In … [Continue reading]
I don’t know about you, but when the weather outside goes from cold and dreary to sunny, it inspires me. It makes me want to spring clean my home inside and out (although I’m a bit behind on that right now, but don’t judge!). But when it comes to … [Continue reading]
Money shortages are common for many people these days. In fact, if you’re like me, your list of needs is bigger than your checkbook. Of course, the solution to that problem is often cutting back certain areas of your budget. While that can help, … [Continue reading]
Keeping a marriage together over the long haul is hard work. My husband and I can attest to that as we have been married for many years. In fact, I’ve been with him longer than I’ve been without him. Sure, it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows. … [Continue reading]
I have to admit it. I’m guilty. My family had a conversation about cell phones recently, and my husband asked if I take mine everywhere. I replied that, yes, I do take my smart phone with me nearly everywhere. His question stemmed from something … [Continue reading]
The first part of the year is always a great time to overhaul your budget. I must admit, my husband and I intended to go through ours together a month or two ago. We haven’t really had a chance to do it so far, but I’m sure we will soon. On a … [Continue reading]
Valentine’s Day is coming up fast, but not everyone can afford an expensive fancy dinner. If your budget is tight, like mine is this year, you might be searching for other ways to celebrate. The good news is, you can show that special someone you … [Continue reading]
To me, each January seems long and cold, and a bit of a letdown after the holidays are over. This year seems to be no different. I don’t think it helps that it’s also the month when the IRS starts accepting tax returns. In case you were wondering, … [Continue reading]
Have you ever wanted to go on a date with your significant other but it wasn’t in the budget? If you have, you’re not alone. The average cost of a date these days can set you back over a hundred dollars. To me, that seams like a lot of money to … [Continue reading]
Toward the end of December, or the beginning of January, many people make household budget adjustments. They often vow to lower their spending and save money throughout the coming year. However, to do that effectively, you should scrutinize last … [Continue reading]
Many people spend more money during November and December than they do other months of the year. That can really wreak havoc on their finances. The silly thing is, we all know those higher spend months are coming. After all, Thanksgiving and … [Continue reading]
It’s almost that time of year again for many Americans: time to start a new diet. While I’m not necessarily joining them, I do plan to go back to a healthier eating style. At the same time, I am going back to my personal trainer and getting back into … [Continue reading]
I always find that as the new year approaches, it’s a time for reflection. Apparently, Facebook agrees, because as the year closes, they post a summary that reflects some of the year’s highlights. Of course, once January rolls around, it’s also a … [Continue reading]
I’ve pretty much gotten all of my Christmas gifting wrapped up. Ok, so not all of the presents are actually wrapped and under the tree. But I have at least purchased, or made, most of the things I’ll be giving as gifts this year. Now that my kids … [Continue reading]
I used to work for a business that gave out end of year bonuses every year. Granted, some years it was a lawn chair, umbrella, or a blanket displaying the company name. But some years the bonus every employee received was monetary. Whenever the … [Continue reading]
There are a lot of things I love about the holiday season. One example is seeing the pretty lights and decorations everyone puts up in their homes and businesses. I also enjoy special holiday food dishes, Christmas music, and the parties where … [Continue reading]
It’s easy to say you’ll save money for the holidays each year, but harder to put into practice. I, for one, always think I’ll start early - like in January. Then, by the time it rolls around the next year, I’ll be ready and less stressed both … [Continue reading]
With Thanksgiving just a little over a week away, and Christmas around the corner, I’ve been preparing ahead. Truth be told, since Thanksgiving doesn’t involve gifts, I’ve been focusing more on Christmas. … [Continue reading]
Having a tight budget makes it difficult to pay for any extras that come up. Of course, those extras can come in many forms. … [Continue reading]
Many people need extra money in their budgets from time to time. I did a couple of years ago, and that led me to freelance writing and virtual assistant work to pay down debt. Eventually it grew enough to let me quit my full time job and work from … [Continue reading]