Reducing debt is the cornerstone of leading a more financially sound lifestyle. With less debt you’ll have more money to save, invest, and to use for things you enjoy. Getting rid of debt is tough, but with these 10 steps you’ll be able to dig your way out of debt. 1. Create an emergency fund. […]
Balance Spending and Paying off Debt
Despite the fact that I write a personal finance blog, getting out of debt has not been an overnight process. I often read stories of people paying off anywhere from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt in a year or less. These stories make me scratch my head because it’s clear they […]
Shopping guide: The “Should I Buy It?” Test
About a month ago my girls were playing in the living room behind a chair. They were building a tent. A crash and bang later, and the sole lamp in the living room, a floor lamp with a glass shade, was gone. I was a bit upset, but it was a free to us lamp, […]
How I Fight My Inner Spender
I labeled my rationale for spending $ my inner spender. She’s sneaky, conniving, and able to talk me into just about anything. She thinks Kate Spade shoes on sale are an “investment,” and buying the kids ice cream will make them feel happy and loved.
An Open Letter To Credit Cards
Dear Credit Cards, This isn’t an easy thing to say to your pretty, shiny face so I decided to write you a letter. I know I should call or write you, but I just can’t bring myself to look at your numbers anymore (I might memorize them and go shopping online). I’m going to take […]
Why You Need An Emergency Fund
I always think my life has been a prime example of why you need an emergency fund, and this week has been no exception. The first time we set up an emergency fund we had to drain it in the course of a week for emergency repairs to the house and cars. Learn more: […]
How To Pay Off Debt
As promised I wanted to share what method we are using to pay off our debt. The first step is to come up with $1,000 for an emergency fund. For some people this may not be enough, but it’s a start, and will cover most emergencies. It will also give you peace of mind to […]
What To Do With A Windfall
Yesterday we got a check in the mail for over $2,000. I was expecting it, so I had budgeted for it, but we also received a $30 check and $150 for selling a bedroom set we no longer need. In the past I would have jumped up and down, and then immediately squandered the $150 […]
