All around our neighborhood, we can see work being done on the homes. Additions are being added, new floors are being laid, and landscaping is going on. Often, when we go on our morning walk, seeing these projects happening sparks conversation about what we'd like to do to … [Read more...]
Finding Our Way Out of Debt
Thanks to Wells Fargo for sponsoring my participation in this campaign. #MyCreditStory For some people, "debt" is a four-letter word and something to be avoided at all costs, but, without some debt, buying a car or house would be nearly impossible for most of us. When that … [Read more...]
Is Your House Part of Your Retirement Plan?
Last week, we got Beth's quarterly 401K statement in the mail. I'm not going into any detail on that, but receiving those statements is always a great reminder of how we are doing in our retirement planning. Thinking about the future We try to think out about different … [Read more...]
Becoming Financial Partners
I have a degree in Finance. I think in terms of returns, present vs. future value of money, APR, etc. I say that putting your money into a fund that pays 7% APR is much smarter than paying off your mortgage with a 3% APR. Your money is 4% ahead by saving it! That makes great … [Read more...]
Caring for Caregivers
My grandmother is a saint. For over 20 years, she has taken care of my uncle who has some severe limitations to living on his own and caring for himself. For a little while, she had some help from my grandfather, but, at some point, he developed some pretty big limitations … [Read more...]
Start Planning Your Retirement Now
Do you know the best time to start planning your retirement? Now! Whatever your age, if you haven't started planning your retirement, there is no time like the present. The earlier you start, the less stress you will have and the less you will have to set aside each pay … [Read more...]
Life Insurance Options During Open Season
At many companies, it is open season for employee benefits. Every year, Beth and I have a discussion about how much life insurance we should have for each of us. The real discussion has less to do with each of us than it has to do with taking care of the kids. At the end of … [Read more...]
Simple Budgeting: Real World Debt Management
Last month, I wrote about Using What You Have. This month I tweeted asking for ideas and got two great ones. So I am going to write this month about how to get out of debt thanks to the suggestion from @alyssaavant. I am not Dave Ramsey or Suze Orman when it comes to debt. … [Read more...]