More from Kiplinger (dated but still good)! Have a nice holiday weekend if you are celebrating Easter or Passover.
Exercise Your Brain to Improve Memory in Retirement
Money Smart Ways to Eat Healthy
Healthy Habits That Will Save You Money
Happy reading!
Pru
Showing posts with label links. Show all posts
Showing posts with label links. Show all posts
Friday, March 30, 2018
Sunday, March 25, 2018
Links for the week
Some links to read this week sourced from Kiplinger.
Remember, these links are written by financial advisors who ultimately are always trying to sell something (including their services). Read and enjoy but always with a grain of salt and willingness to educate yourself some more before diving in.
The Biggest Risk Retirees Face Right Now
This one was very interesting to me but also made me think that we can do the best possible and still have an unhappy ending. Nice huh?! So much to think about regarding investing but all you can do is keep reading/learning and keep putting money into investments.
What Everybody Needs to Know About Investment Fees
Oil Prices Buffeted by Global Supply Concerns
Good to keep abreast of economic information/forecasts even if they are never 100% accurate
Do You See a Market Cliff Approaching?
*I disagree with the initial tone of this article. Yes the market goes up and down but it does so usually for a reason (especially when there is a precipitous drop). The most recent drop is because of fears of a trade war - fears which are warranted. While there is some good info in this article (like don't react impulsively!) this is exactly the type that I say read with a large grain of salt. Understand why the market is moving for significant changes and also let that inform your decisions.
Happy Reading!
Pru
Remember, these links are written by financial advisors who ultimately are always trying to sell something (including their services). Read and enjoy but always with a grain of salt and willingness to educate yourself some more before diving in.
The Biggest Risk Retirees Face Right Now
This one was very interesting to me but also made me think that we can do the best possible and still have an unhappy ending. Nice huh?! So much to think about regarding investing but all you can do is keep reading/learning and keep putting money into investments.
What Everybody Needs to Know About Investment Fees
Oil Prices Buffeted by Global Supply Concerns
Good to keep abreast of economic information/forecasts even if they are never 100% accurate
Do You See a Market Cliff Approaching?
*I disagree with the initial tone of this article. Yes the market goes up and down but it does so usually for a reason (especially when there is a precipitous drop). The most recent drop is because of fears of a trade war - fears which are warranted. While there is some good info in this article (like don't react impulsively!) this is exactly the type that I say read with a large grain of salt. Understand why the market is moving for significant changes and also let that inform your decisions.
Happy Reading!
Pru
Friday, February 23, 2018
Links for the weekend
Ahhh the computer let me on just to read a few articles from Kiplinger.
Why Bonds Are More Important to Your Financial Portfolio Than You May Realize
How to Be Rich (A 401(k) Alone Won't Get You There)
Inflation Rate Forecast
Retirement Planning Mistakes You'll Regret Forever
Happy reading!
Pru
Why Bonds Are More Important to Your Financial Portfolio Than You May Realize
How to Be Rich (A 401(k) Alone Won't Get You There)
Inflation Rate Forecast
Retirement Planning Mistakes You'll Regret Forever
Happy reading!
Pru
Monday, February 12, 2018
Links for the week
Here are some links from US News. Trying to keep it simple and stay focused on goals. Reading and re-reading the basics definitely keeps me focused.
9 Affordable Hobbies to Discover This Year
Here's How to Save for a Big-Ticket Item
5 'Life Audits" That Will Save You Money
Take on Your New Year's Resolutions Without Going Broke
5 Clever Ways to Stay Financially Disciplined in the New Year
How to Use Deliberate Experimentation to Improve Your Finances
Happy reading!
Pru
9 Affordable Hobbies to Discover This Year
Here's How to Save for a Big-Ticket Item
5 'Life Audits" That Will Save You Money
Take on Your New Year's Resolutions Without Going Broke
5 Clever Ways to Stay Financially Disciplined in the New Year
How to Use Deliberate Experimentation to Improve Your Finances
Happy reading!
Pru
Monday, February 5, 2018
Links for the week
A few interesting links from Fidelity:
The lesson for diagnosing a bubble
This is what success looks like to the average American
5 ways life could change for retirees in 2018
What assets make up wealth?
5 money mistakes to avoid in the new year
Happy reading!
Pru
The lesson for diagnosing a bubble
This is what success looks like to the average American
5 ways life could change for retirees in 2018
What assets make up wealth?
5 money mistakes to avoid in the new year
Happy reading!
Pru
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Links for the week
These are some good ones coming to us from Fidelity. I suggest reading one a day and taking the time to ponder on it.
(The last link has me particularly worried. Tighten the belt, squeeze each penny until it squeaks - I'll be putting money aside to pay down the mortgage later this year or in early 2019 after I get an idea of how the new tax bill really affects me.)
Investors have been favoring bonds over stocks for years
How to survive a stock market bubble
Tax overhaul will have a limited effect on U.S. economy
*This one has lots of links to other articles which could be interesting...but I haven't had a chance to look at them...
As economy strengthens, Fed ponders new approach
It has been a new perfect investing environment. But it may end soon.
The economy is doing great. Here is what could derail it.
One sure-fire prediction for 2018: Americans will take on even more debt
Happy reading!
Pru
(The last link has me particularly worried. Tighten the belt, squeeze each penny until it squeaks - I'll be putting money aside to pay down the mortgage later this year or in early 2019 after I get an idea of how the new tax bill really affects me.)
Investors have been favoring bonds over stocks for years
How to survive a stock market bubble
Tax overhaul will have a limited effect on U.S. economy
*This one has lots of links to other articles which could be interesting...but I haven't had a chance to look at them...
As economy strengthens, Fed ponders new approach
It has been a new perfect investing environment. But it may end soon.
The economy is doing great. Here is what could derail it.
One sure-fire prediction for 2018: Americans will take on even more debt
Happy reading!
Pru
Monday, January 15, 2018
Links for the week and a thought
Below are a few links to read this week from USA Today. These are a few reminders (always good to keep reading the basics) and the last link is a good plan to follow.
One thought that has been rattling about the ole brain is that now is the time to plan for Christmas/end of the year/any other holiday you celebrate :-) I know it is 12 months away but now is the time set a budget and make sure that you are tucking money away with each paycheck. On my end Christmas is usually low key so not too much to plan but I do spend a good amount of money on "thank you" gift cards for various people. In addition to figuring out how much that is going to cost, this year will likely involve a bigger end of year/holiday splash so I need to really focus on setting aside money (a lot more than usual).
I don't track my yearly savings categories on this blog but it is money related so a mention is worth it. I cannot say how wonderful it is to put the money aside throughout the year and then *poof* suddenly December arrives and you can shop (if you so choose) and enjoy yourself without worrying about debt that cannot be paid.
If you do one thing this year, starting to set aside small amounts of money every single time you get paid will make your life so much better. Whether it's for summer camp for the kids, a nice family vacation, Christmas, back-to-school shopping, these are all things that come up every year and have their greedy little hands out trying to grab money from you. Plan ahead when you can and stash the cash!
I'm also thinking about a nice trip this year. Not sure when or where or any of the details but it would be nice to get away. I don't have a lot of extra money to put towards it. All this means is the thinking cap got put on tight and I decided to save money on lunches, coffee, teas etc. For every work day that I bring my lunch, I am putting that money towards a fabulous trip. OK it's not a ton of cash daily which means this trip is probably not happening before June. But it will happen. (If I save between $5-$10/work day, I will save anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 for a nice trip involving a plane ride.)
Think about where money needs to go this year (needs plus a want or two) and then stash what cash you can.
Now on to the links!
3 months resolutions worth getting right
How to start taming your budget busting bills
12 months of smart money moves to end 2018 richer
Happy reading!
Pru
One thought that has been rattling about the ole brain is that now is the time to plan for Christmas/end of the year/any other holiday you celebrate :-) I know it is 12 months away but now is the time set a budget and make sure that you are tucking money away with each paycheck. On my end Christmas is usually low key so not too much to plan but I do spend a good amount of money on "thank you" gift cards for various people. In addition to figuring out how much that is going to cost, this year will likely involve a bigger end of year/holiday splash so I need to really focus on setting aside money (a lot more than usual).
I don't track my yearly savings categories on this blog but it is money related so a mention is worth it. I cannot say how wonderful it is to put the money aside throughout the year and then *poof* suddenly December arrives and you can shop (if you so choose) and enjoy yourself without worrying about debt that cannot be paid.
If you do one thing this year, starting to set aside small amounts of money every single time you get paid will make your life so much better. Whether it's for summer camp for the kids, a nice family vacation, Christmas, back-to-school shopping, these are all things that come up every year and have their greedy little hands out trying to grab money from you. Plan ahead when you can and stash the cash!
I'm also thinking about a nice trip this year. Not sure when or where or any of the details but it would be nice to get away. I don't have a lot of extra money to put towards it. All this means is the thinking cap got put on tight and I decided to save money on lunches, coffee, teas etc. For every work day that I bring my lunch, I am putting that money towards a fabulous trip. OK it's not a ton of cash daily which means this trip is probably not happening before June. But it will happen. (If I save between $5-$10/work day, I will save anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 for a nice trip involving a plane ride.)
Think about where money needs to go this year (needs plus a want or two) and then stash what cash you can.
Now on to the links!
3 months resolutions worth getting right
How to start taming your budget busting bills
12 months of smart money moves to end 2018 richer
Happy reading!
Pru
Thursday, January 11, 2018
Links for the weekend
Just a few articles that I've read this week (from Kiplingers):
Shore Up Your Financial House
Find a Match to Share Your Home
The Impossible Reality of Long Term Care Planning
5 Bargain Vacation Destinations Off the Beaten Track
Happy reading!
Pru
Shore Up Your Financial House
Find a Match to Share Your Home
The Impossible Reality of Long Term Care Planning
5 Bargain Vacation Destinations Off the Beaten Track
Happy reading!
Pru
Sunday, January 7, 2018
Links for the week
Just a few articles that I've been reading from Kiplingers:
Job Growth Becoming More Sustainable
3 Financial Moves to Make as a New Year Gets Underway
12 Smart Financial Moves For the New Year
Right Now Is The Right Time To Prepare for the Next Bear Market
26 Ways the New Tax Law Will Affect Your Wallet
Review Your Portfolio in 3 Easy Steps
Happy Reading!
Pru
Job Growth Becoming More Sustainable
3 Financial Moves to Make as a New Year Gets Underway
12 Smart Financial Moves For the New Year
Right Now Is The Right Time To Prepare for the Next Bear Market
26 Ways the New Tax Law Will Affect Your Wallet
Review Your Portfolio in 3 Easy Steps
Happy Reading!
Pru
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Happy Lunar New Year! Time to keep saving!
Super exhausting week and weekend! But here are some links for reading:
PF Wisdom from the Year of the Rooster
5 Steps to Take Right Now for a Financially Strong 2017
Funding 40 Years of Retirement
*can't imagine this but we must plan for it eh!
A Grumpy Old Man's Guide to 401(k) Investing
Happy Reading!
Pru
PF Wisdom from the Year of the Rooster
5 Steps to Take Right Now for a Financially Strong 2017
Funding 40 Years of Retirement
*can't imagine this but we must plan for it eh!
A Grumpy Old Man's Guide to 401(k) Investing
Happy Reading!
Pru
Sunday, January 22, 2017
Well now...and so it starts
We knew it was going to happen and now it has.
The ignorant and scary Twump is now officially the President of the United States. I still cannot believe the imbeciles and deplorables that voted for him.
Twump and his cronies are now off to Make America White Again, couched however it is in various coded phrases.
Simply disgusting.
In an effort to protest, donations were made to the American Civil Liberties Union (on Friday - at 12:01 p.m. I clicked donate!) and to Planned Parenthood (on Saturday in honor of the women marching/gathering in DC) because both of those organizations have their work cut out for them.
[Pru raises a fist into the air!]
I did not join the march in DC as originally planned. The person I was going with flaked as usual (didn't actually think she would flake on this to be honest) and I didn't want to travel down alone since I wasn't sure what to expect.
Small actions on my part but more will happen. It's all a bit new so I'm exploring still. Also looking locally - it is so important to either build a strong community or do what you can to maintain it so that no one is marginalized and all are helped.
The future is uncertain. The deplorables of this country who claim to be "real" America have given the middle finger to all that is good about this country. In his first speech as President, Twump gave the impression that this country is burning. The country that is the world leader (currently) is not a country that is burning...yet.
But we shall see. His nominees for his cabinet and administration will be confirmed. They lack the experience and the knowledge to do the job but will oversee billions of dollars. Let's see what happens to healthcare (repeal the Affordable Act - let millions go without healthcare - do it!), or to education (no more public school education! yay! parents who themselves are not that well educated can get vouchers to charter schools that do not have to meet any sort of standards - well that will make this country great! and all those schools can have guns in them to fight off the grizzlies!), to HUD (who needs housing? no one!). Oh wait. Did I forget about the Treasury - yup put someone in charge that foreclosed on deplorables and nondeplorables alike and ended up a billionaire (don't forget foreclosing on that 90-year old woman over a 27 cent discrepancy - yay!!!!).
Muslim registries - so creative! What will President Hitler Twump and Vice Hitler Twump think about next?! Oh! Oh! Oh! I know! Maybe they'll become obsessed with stars. (And those who might wear a pink star can instead perhaps go through conversion therapy - then they can change the color of their star!)
Sigh. I can't wait to see Make America White Again in real life - not just in the history books.
Gonna be a *great* four years. Save. Invest. Save some more.
Do without if it means you can save some more. Vanguard's thoughts:
Vanguard's investment tips for 2017
Right now we have no idea what is around the corner. While that is usually the case, it feels particularly poignant today. Brexit, Twump, Le Pen leading in the French polls. Focus on what you have to do to get your financial house in order and prepare for a rainy day is probably the best advice.
Today if someone offered me a seat on an arc, I'd probably accept. Tomorrow, it's right back to being frugal and smart and thinking ahead.
And deplorables - remember you are not welcome here. Find a troll (or frog) site where you will be in better company.
Pru
The ignorant and scary Twump is now officially the President of the United States. I still cannot believe the imbeciles and deplorables that voted for him.
Twump and his cronies are now off to Make America White Again, couched however it is in various coded phrases.
Simply disgusting.
In an effort to protest, donations were made to the American Civil Liberties Union (on Friday - at 12:01 p.m. I clicked donate!) and to Planned Parenthood (on Saturday in honor of the women marching/gathering in DC) because both of those organizations have their work cut out for them.
[Pru raises a fist into the air!]
I did not join the march in DC as originally planned. The person I was going with flaked as usual (didn't actually think she would flake on this to be honest) and I didn't want to travel down alone since I wasn't sure what to expect.
Small actions on my part but more will happen. It's all a bit new so I'm exploring still. Also looking locally - it is so important to either build a strong community or do what you can to maintain it so that no one is marginalized and all are helped.
The future is uncertain. The deplorables of this country who claim to be "real" America have given the middle finger to all that is good about this country. In his first speech as President, Twump gave the impression that this country is burning. The country that is the world leader (currently) is not a country that is burning...yet.
But we shall see. His nominees for his cabinet and administration will be confirmed. They lack the experience and the knowledge to do the job but will oversee billions of dollars. Let's see what happens to healthcare (repeal the Affordable Act - let millions go without healthcare - do it!), or to education (no more public school education! yay! parents who themselves are not that well educated can get vouchers to charter schools that do not have to meet any sort of standards - well that will make this country great! and all those schools can have guns in them to fight off the grizzlies!), to HUD (who needs housing? no one!). Oh wait. Did I forget about the Treasury - yup put someone in charge that foreclosed on deplorables and nondeplorables alike and ended up a billionaire (don't forget foreclosing on that 90-year old woman over a 27 cent discrepancy - yay!!!!).
Muslim registries - so creative! What will President Hitler Twump and Vice Hitler Twump think about next?! Oh! Oh! Oh! I know! Maybe they'll become obsessed with stars. (And those who might wear a pink star can instead perhaps go through conversion therapy - then they can change the color of their star!)
Sigh. I can't wait to see Make America White Again in real life - not just in the history books.
Gonna be a *great* four years. Save. Invest. Save some more.
Do without if it means you can save some more. Vanguard's thoughts:
Vanguard's investment tips for 2017
Right now we have no idea what is around the corner. While that is usually the case, it feels particularly poignant today. Brexit, Twump, Le Pen leading in the French polls. Focus on what you have to do to get your financial house in order and prepare for a rainy day is probably the best advice.
Today if someone offered me a seat on an arc, I'd probably accept. Tomorrow, it's right back to being frugal and smart and thinking ahead.
And deplorables - remember you are not welcome here. Find a troll (or frog) site where you will be in better company.
Pru
Friday, January 13, 2017
Weekend Reading - The Wisdom Edition
Every now and again I know that I repost the same links. Part of this is forgetfulness and the other part is because I reread the article and think that is great!
All of these links definitely fall into the "that is great!" category :-) New year, new us!
Knight Kiplinger's 8 Keys to Financial Security
Financial Decisions That Will Haunt You Forever
Smart Retirement Strategies for Women
Happy reading!
Pru
All of these links definitely fall into the "that is great!" category :-) New year, new us!
Knight Kiplinger's 8 Keys to Financial Security
Financial Decisions That Will Haunt You Forever
Smart Retirement Strategies for Women
Happy reading!
Pru
Saturday, January 7, 2017
Weekend Reading :-)
First weekend of 2017 - woot! woot! Can someone just say weekend again :-)
Is it snowing where you are? It is for me. That means a nice cup of something hot, a warm blanket and some reading. Here are some links to peruse this weekend:
I'm a Conservative Investor and Other Lies We Tell Ourselves
*This is a good one because investing is not easy - categorize it under "things to remember"
5 Things Fourth-Quarter Football Strategy Can Teach You About Retirement Planning
*Like!
My brokerage account is with Vanguard so of course this article caught my eye. Remember one size usually doesn't fit all and you need to determine what is best for you but this article does remind you that you can keep it simple:
6 Vanguard Index Funds to Buy and Hold Forever
*Remember you can buy and hold forever but don't buy and forget/never check in
4 Keys to Reaching Your Lifetime Financial Goals
*This is a good one! And one that you can and should do on your own/with your partner/family etc. Not all of us have financial advisors but we should all do this - even if you are not investing in the market just yet! Remember to always tailor to your personal needs.
Happy reading!
Pru
Is it snowing where you are? It is for me. That means a nice cup of something hot, a warm blanket and some reading. Here are some links to peruse this weekend:
I'm a Conservative Investor and Other Lies We Tell Ourselves
*This is a good one because investing is not easy - categorize it under "things to remember"
5 Things Fourth-Quarter Football Strategy Can Teach You About Retirement Planning
*Like!
My brokerage account is with Vanguard so of course this article caught my eye. Remember one size usually doesn't fit all and you need to determine what is best for you but this article does remind you that you can keep it simple:
6 Vanguard Index Funds to Buy and Hold Forever
*Remember you can buy and hold forever but don't buy and forget/never check in
4 Keys to Reaching Your Lifetime Financial Goals
*This is a good one! And one that you can and should do on your own/with your partner/family etc. Not all of us have financial advisors but we should all do this - even if you are not investing in the market just yet! Remember to always tailor to your personal needs.
Happy reading!
Pru
Monday, December 26, 2016
Happy Holiday Reading!
Happy Holidays!
I'm hoping that I won't be trolled for saying "Happy Holidays" because in this new world order apparently all of the anti-PC police have "freed" our tongues so that we can now say "Merry Christmas" to everyone regardless of whether or not they celebrate Xmas or whether we just wanted to lump in one holiday with another (New Year's!) and make it plural (holidays).
In any case I needed to take a break from the internet and social media after I saw the president-elect Twump's nuclear tweets and the fact that we now have a team (yes a team) of people who must tell the American people what Twump means because we cannot on our own read his tweets, listen to his comments and take him literally. No we must have interpreters because apparently he doesn't actually mean what he says or writes.
The icing on the cake may have been when I saw a clip from Seth Meyer's show and he made a joke about Twump's ability to spell and then showed a (hopefully will never happen) email from Twump to Putin inviting Putin to have lunch but of course spelling it as launch. Ha ha ha (the world cries). Do we actually think that the transition team will be able to delete that email before anyone in Russia sees it?! Gagh!!!!
Moving on, whatever holiday you may or may not have celebrated, I do hope the past couple of days and the next few ones are nice and relaxing. I've decided to add Boxing Day to my list of holidays I celebrate - just because!
And I wanted to leave a list of links for you to peruse. I recommend going to the major brokerage houses websites in your respective country because they should all post short articles or blog posts. Easy reads, they can be a tad fluffy but can sometimes increase your financial knowledge or keep you motivated. These are from Prudential and each link will take you to several articles:
Preparing & Protecting
*I love the one on long-term planning for a special needs child!
**Soothe Financial Anxiety was also a good one!
Family Finances
Saving & Investing
Retirement Planning
Managing Debt
This is not an endorsement of Prudential - it's just free reading :-) These links are clearly oriented towards Americans (e.g. 401K, IRA etc. language) but the concepts should be the same across the board.
Happy reading! AND Happy Holidays to us all!
Pru
I'm hoping that I won't be trolled for saying "Happy Holidays" because in this new world order apparently all of the anti-PC police have "freed" our tongues so that we can now say "Merry Christmas" to everyone regardless of whether or not they celebrate Xmas or whether we just wanted to lump in one holiday with another (New Year's!) and make it plural (holidays).
In any case I needed to take a break from the internet and social media after I saw the president-elect Twump's nuclear tweets and the fact that we now have a team (yes a team) of people who must tell the American people what Twump means because we cannot on our own read his tweets, listen to his comments and take him literally. No we must have interpreters because apparently he doesn't actually mean what he says or writes.
The icing on the cake may have been when I saw a clip from Seth Meyer's show and he made a joke about Twump's ability to spell and then showed a (hopefully will never happen) email from Twump to Putin inviting Putin to have lunch but of course spelling it as launch. Ha ha ha (the world cries). Do we actually think that the transition team will be able to delete that email before anyone in Russia sees it?! Gagh!!!!
Moving on, whatever holiday you may or may not have celebrated, I do hope the past couple of days and the next few ones are nice and relaxing. I've decided to add Boxing Day to my list of holidays I celebrate - just because!
And I wanted to leave a list of links for you to peruse. I recommend going to the major brokerage houses websites in your respective country because they should all post short articles or blog posts. Easy reads, they can be a tad fluffy but can sometimes increase your financial knowledge or keep you motivated. These are from Prudential and each link will take you to several articles:
Preparing & Protecting
*I love the one on long-term planning for a special needs child!
**Soothe Financial Anxiety was also a good one!
Family Finances
Saving & Investing
Retirement Planning
Managing Debt
This is not an endorsement of Prudential - it's just free reading :-) These links are clearly oriented towards Americans (e.g. 401K, IRA etc. language) but the concepts should be the same across the board.
Happy reading! AND Happy Holidays to us all!
Pru
Friday, December 16, 2016
Now This Is A Good One!
This is hands down one of the best written articles I think that I've ever read about budgeting. And one that I will be re-reading before the end of the year. The tone is perfect and it covers a lot. And yet it is simple.
11 Budgeting Skills Everyone Should Master
*kudos to the author
Other articles to read this weekend:
Household Budget Worksheet
(something for newbies to the budgeting world)
An End-of-Year Checklist for a Better Financial Future
Happy reading!
Pru
11 Budgeting Skills Everyone Should Master
*kudos to the author
Other articles to read this weekend:
Household Budget Worksheet
(something for newbies to the budgeting world)
An End-of-Year Checklist for a Better Financial Future
Happy reading!
Pru
Monday, December 12, 2016
Another Budgeting Resource
LearnVest is another resource. It used to be 100% free but now they have some premium content. Read the free articles and as always take what you can from it.
Knowledge Center
Budgeting 101
Happy reading!
Pru
Knowledge Center
Budgeting 101
Happy reading!
Pru
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Budgeting - Two good resources
Below are two people that I suggest as possible resources.
But before we dive in, I would toss in the following thought: You don't need to buy anything related to budgeting or saving money to be successful at those two things. There are a lot of successful people out there who give really great advice and they earn money because they sell products - books, seminars etc. But a lot is available on the internet as well as in your local library. I highly recommend going the cheap route and just reading a lot. If you find someone who resonates with you or a program that you think will be helpful just think twice. Don't toss away money (that you need to save!) on something that you might be able to get for free.
Okay - just my two cents (it might even be worth a quarter!)!
First off I would recommend having a look at Gail Vaz-Oxlade. She is a Canadian firecracker! I have seen some of her shows and I do really love how straight talking she is. Because if you cannot afford something, there is no way to sugarcoat that. You simply cannot afford it and it is far better for someone to be honest with you. Brew a cup of tea or coffee and check out her Resources and Articles pages. I don't believe that most of her shows are available outside of Canada but you can check and see if some videos are out there lurking about.
Second off, I would suggest having a look at Dave Ramsey's site. Dave is Christian-oriented and a lot of churches run his Financial Peace University. People either love him or hate him. Whether you are a Christian or not, something may resonate with you. A quick glance indicates that Dave probably makes a lot of money off of the various people buying products or subscribing. But again many rave that his program, books etc. changed their lives. I say start with the free stuff and see if there is anything that you can takeaway. How to Budget and also read the blog articles.
HTH! Now get reading!
Pru
But before we dive in, I would toss in the following thought: You don't need to buy anything related to budgeting or saving money to be successful at those two things. There are a lot of successful people out there who give really great advice and they earn money because they sell products - books, seminars etc. But a lot is available on the internet as well as in your local library. I highly recommend going the cheap route and just reading a lot. If you find someone who resonates with you or a program that you think will be helpful just think twice. Don't toss away money (that you need to save!) on something that you might be able to get for free.
Okay - just my two cents (it might even be worth a quarter!)!
First off I would recommend having a look at Gail Vaz-Oxlade. She is a Canadian firecracker! I have seen some of her shows and I do really love how straight talking she is. Because if you cannot afford something, there is no way to sugarcoat that. You simply cannot afford it and it is far better for someone to be honest with you. Brew a cup of tea or coffee and check out her Resources and Articles pages. I don't believe that most of her shows are available outside of Canada but you can check and see if some videos are out there lurking about.
Second off, I would suggest having a look at Dave Ramsey's site. Dave is Christian-oriented and a lot of churches run his Financial Peace University. People either love him or hate him. Whether you are a Christian or not, something may resonate with you. A quick glance indicates that Dave probably makes a lot of money off of the various people buying products or subscribing. But again many rave that his program, books etc. changed their lives. I say start with the free stuff and see if there is anything that you can takeaway. How to Budget and also read the blog articles.
HTH! Now get reading!
Pru
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Investing - We CAN Do this!
Today I read a wonderful article (link below) about nuns in Italy that manage their investments. You see with the low rates, they had to take a riskier approach in order to earn a higher return. They didn't have the experience as investors but they also didn't have a choice to sit back on their heels hoping (or praying) something (or someone) would rescue them.
All I could think was, "Yay sisters!" Heck, we all need to have the gumption to do what needs to be done when it comes to investing. We need to take it slow, educate ourselves but keep our feet firmly planted in the waters. We all need to be some sort of investor if we are ever going to be able to retire. Unless, of course, we have eons of money that can earn a paltry 1-2% and pay our bills.
Get Thee to a Brokerage! Low Rates Turn Nuns Into Traders
(hoping this opens up without needing a subscription...)
Happy reading!
Pru
All I could think was, "Yay sisters!" Heck, we all need to have the gumption to do what needs to be done when it comes to investing. We need to take it slow, educate ourselves but keep our feet firmly planted in the waters. We all need to be some sort of investor if we are ever going to be able to retire. Unless, of course, we have eons of money that can earn a paltry 1-2% and pay our bills.
Get Thee to a Brokerage! Low Rates Turn Nuns Into Traders
(hoping this opens up without needing a subscription...)
Happy reading!
Pru
Sunday, November 27, 2016
Where do I put giving in my list of priorities?
It's a known fact (to me) that I have not prioritized giving. Like many, I have given some but always with the plan to give more...in the future.
Today I read a wonderful blog post from Our Next Life, frugal bloggers who are planning to retire early - possibly in the next year. The post is below:
Go Beyond Gratitude
It is interesting how a lot of people that are focused on retiring early or hitting a certain number do give less (on a percentage basis). Not everyone but many. Is it because we/they are sheltered from many issues because of either their money or their access to money (via family, via a good job or the ability to get a good job)? I'm not sure exactly.
One internal struggle that I have is that I know I will have to help support family (both those in my generation and my parent's generation) along with myself because certain family members either did not save when they could or did not make enough to save properly for retirement. I'm honest with myself to know that I'm not happy about the situation. It means that I cannot spend my hard-earned money how I would like if I am to be in a position to provide support. And by support I do not mean a fancy retirement lifestyle - I mean ensuring basic needs are met and there are sufficient funds for needed healthcare.
The above also means that it is very hard for me to part with money even when it is for a good cause. I simply do not know how much money I will need to support myself and my family (healthcare being the great unknown). I am also not comfortable relying on the government for support since that and the quality of any support that would be provided is also unknown.
It is also one of the reasons why I am focused on paying off my mortgage as soon as possible. Should something happen to me, I would expect (and may even require in an updated estate plan) that my heirs (my family) sell my home rather than live in it. The monies from such a sale would go farther and would eliminate a huge expense for them (property taxes).
Now I agree with what is said in the Go Beyond Gratitude post. It is important to give now as well as in the future. Somehow I have to fit this into my budget, into my financial planning.
I am still working on the 2017 budget (everyone start working on your budgets before the new year arrives - always good to have a plan!) and I am reducing some of the funds that would be sent to my financial goals and diverting them towards charitable (and political giving). I am also going to test the waters (yet again) with some belt tightening to see if I can eliminate the non-necessities and push those dollars towards donations/contributions.
Yesterday I wrapped up this month's donations by giving to
Center for Reproductive Rights
and National Organization for Women (NOW) Foundation
I also gave to a local NOW organization (their foundation) and will give to another local NOW foundation. I spend time in 2 different states so wanted to give to both states.
My NOW donations were to the nonprofit organizations. I also intend to give political contributions to NOW organizations as well. Those will happen in December.
I still have another donation to give locally but I have to also drop off a piece of paper in-person so that will happen next month. I am also considering a few other organizations (NPR, PBS, environmental, LGBTQ etc.) for donations. (Suggestions are always welcome!) Oh and I am planning to buy a bunch of toilet paper for my local homeless shelter - debating on whether this will be an online purchase or if I will go to the store. I plan to buy a lot so logistically speaking online may be easier.
The Go Beyond Gratitude post also brings up the question of donating money or time. Money is so important because they are businesses (nonprofit though they may be) and their bills need to be paid. I don't have a lot of time right now. But to be honest, my time is probably more valuable than money. While I have given dollars, the truth of the matter is that if I can find the right place to volunteer my time, I will.
I am well educated, am not a lawyer but can tear through legal documents, am very comfortable with math and numbers and can tear through financial statements (have taken accounting and economics classes), I am extremely good at organizing events (have previously done so for 100-200 people) and spearheading projects, and I can write well (this blog is not an example of the writing I have to do professionally).
I can perform administrative tasks and would do so without hesitation. I can watch tots and kids while their parents learn English or study for their GED. I can tutor children from age 5 through 15 in many subjects. However, my real value add may be through grant writing, fundraising, reviewing legislation or quite possibly even proposing legislation. Of course that would be a brand new role to take on and I would need guidance and supervision but I have a good background to build on that could be far more valuable since some organizations have to hire employees to tackle these tasks.
Now I do not say the above to brag but to say it is time to stand up Pru and acknowledge what you can and want to do. I have some good skills that can be put to good use! Right now I can donate money. But as I work towards achieving my financial goals and in a real sense freeing up my time, I want to be in a position to do more. I don't just want to leave my job, financial goals accomplished, and do nothing.
The work begins now with continuing to identify organizations and causes that I believe in and that I would want to support with money and with time.
Pru
Today I read a wonderful blog post from Our Next Life, frugal bloggers who are planning to retire early - possibly in the next year. The post is below:
Go Beyond Gratitude
It is interesting how a lot of people that are focused on retiring early or hitting a certain number do give less (on a percentage basis). Not everyone but many. Is it because we/they are sheltered from many issues because of either their money or their access to money (via family, via a good job or the ability to get a good job)? I'm not sure exactly.
One internal struggle that I have is that I know I will have to help support family (both those in my generation and my parent's generation) along with myself because certain family members either did not save when they could or did not make enough to save properly for retirement. I'm honest with myself to know that I'm not happy about the situation. It means that I cannot spend my hard-earned money how I would like if I am to be in a position to provide support. And by support I do not mean a fancy retirement lifestyle - I mean ensuring basic needs are met and there are sufficient funds for needed healthcare.
The above also means that it is very hard for me to part with money even when it is for a good cause. I simply do not know how much money I will need to support myself and my family (healthcare being the great unknown). I am also not comfortable relying on the government for support since that and the quality of any support that would be provided is also unknown.
It is also one of the reasons why I am focused on paying off my mortgage as soon as possible. Should something happen to me, I would expect (and may even require in an updated estate plan) that my heirs (my family) sell my home rather than live in it. The monies from such a sale would go farther and would eliminate a huge expense for them (property taxes).
Now I agree with what is said in the Go Beyond Gratitude post. It is important to give now as well as in the future. Somehow I have to fit this into my budget, into my financial planning.
I am still working on the 2017 budget (everyone start working on your budgets before the new year arrives - always good to have a plan!) and I am reducing some of the funds that would be sent to my financial goals and diverting them towards charitable (and political giving). I am also going to test the waters (yet again) with some belt tightening to see if I can eliminate the non-necessities and push those dollars towards donations/contributions.
Yesterday I wrapped up this month's donations by giving to
Center for Reproductive Rights
and National Organization for Women (NOW) Foundation
I also gave to a local NOW organization (their foundation) and will give to another local NOW foundation. I spend time in 2 different states so wanted to give to both states.
My NOW donations were to the nonprofit organizations. I also intend to give political contributions to NOW organizations as well. Those will happen in December.
I still have another donation to give locally but I have to also drop off a piece of paper in-person so that will happen next month. I am also considering a few other organizations (NPR, PBS, environmental, LGBTQ etc.) for donations. (Suggestions are always welcome!) Oh and I am planning to buy a bunch of toilet paper for my local homeless shelter - debating on whether this will be an online purchase or if I will go to the store. I plan to buy a lot so logistically speaking online may be easier.
The Go Beyond Gratitude post also brings up the question of donating money or time. Money is so important because they are businesses (nonprofit though they may be) and their bills need to be paid. I don't have a lot of time right now. But to be honest, my time is probably more valuable than money. While I have given dollars, the truth of the matter is that if I can find the right place to volunteer my time, I will.
I am well educated, am not a lawyer but can tear through legal documents, am very comfortable with math and numbers and can tear through financial statements (have taken accounting and economics classes), I am extremely good at organizing events (have previously done so for 100-200 people) and spearheading projects, and I can write well (this blog is not an example of the writing I have to do professionally).
I can perform administrative tasks and would do so without hesitation. I can watch tots and kids while their parents learn English or study for their GED. I can tutor children from age 5 through 15 in many subjects. However, my real value add may be through grant writing, fundraising, reviewing legislation or quite possibly even proposing legislation. Of course that would be a brand new role to take on and I would need guidance and supervision but I have a good background to build on that could be far more valuable since some organizations have to hire employees to tackle these tasks.
Now I do not say the above to brag but to say it is time to stand up Pru and acknowledge what you can and want to do. I have some good skills that can be put to good use! Right now I can donate money. But as I work towards achieving my financial goals and in a real sense freeing up my time, I want to be in a position to do more. I don't just want to leave my job, financial goals accomplished, and do nothing.
The work begins now with continuing to identify organizations and causes that I believe in and that I would want to support with money and with time.
Pru
Friday, November 25, 2016
Southern Poverty Law Center
Thanksgiving was rough - I cooked a lot of dishes, struggled with my internet service and to be honest I passed out at one point. Didn't even benefit from eating a bunch before I was down for the count - pure exhaustion. Needless to say my intent to make other donations did not materialize Thursday evening. Back at work today but I have just managed to make a donation before heading to bed.
Fight hate! I donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center who have been fighting the good fight for a long time and who will hopefully continue the battle. Until Tuesday, if anyone reading this wants to contribute, they have a supporter who will double your donation - utterly fabulous!
Right now I am in the stages of I am not exactly sure what I *should* do. Getting back to the heart of this blog, I wasn't sure exactly what I would be doing in 10 years when I "Rewire" but I wanted to make sure that I would be in a more secure place financially when I got there and in a position to make a leap. I have a feeling that in 10 (actually 9) years I will look back and know that this election had an impact on what I will be doing then.
I will continue giving. There will be some political donations as well. I will aim low and say that these will be completed by this weekend. (This will give me plenty of time to complete this as well as to nap, clean, organize, run errands and get ready for the week ahead.)
By the time I start typing a post, I am usually mentally exhausted from work and life and I ramble on and on probably not making much sense. (Oh and don't forget jump from subject to subject.) My grammar slides and I make a ton of spelling mistakes. I fear that I get little across. Lately, I have read and listened to many things that have made me say, "yes! this!" and I wanted to share a post that is far more eloquent than I am on a Friday evening and that is in keeping with where I am right now:
After This Election, I Don't Owe Anyone My Silence Or Unity
Quote of the Week:
"Apathy and indifference can be just as dangerous as outright bigotry and xenophobia." - Mekita Rivas
Have a good weekend!
Pru
Fight hate! I donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center who have been fighting the good fight for a long time and who will hopefully continue the battle. Until Tuesday, if anyone reading this wants to contribute, they have a supporter who will double your donation - utterly fabulous!
Right now I am in the stages of I am not exactly sure what I *should* do. Getting back to the heart of this blog, I wasn't sure exactly what I would be doing in 10 years when I "Rewire" but I wanted to make sure that I would be in a more secure place financially when I got there and in a position to make a leap. I have a feeling that in 10 (actually 9) years I will look back and know that this election had an impact on what I will be doing then.
I will continue giving. There will be some political donations as well. I will aim low and say that these will be completed by this weekend. (This will give me plenty of time to complete this as well as to nap, clean, organize, run errands and get ready for the week ahead.)
By the time I start typing a post, I am usually mentally exhausted from work and life and I ramble on and on probably not making much sense. (Oh and don't forget jump from subject to subject.) My grammar slides and I make a ton of spelling mistakes. I fear that I get little across. Lately, I have read and listened to many things that have made me say, "yes! this!" and I wanted to share a post that is far more eloquent than I am on a Friday evening and that is in keeping with where I am right now:
After This Election, I Don't Owe Anyone My Silence Or Unity
Quote of the Week:
"Apathy and indifference can be just as dangerous as outright bigotry and xenophobia." - Mekita Rivas
Have a good weekend!
Pru
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