Don’t be a Scrooge. Shockingly, this might be the one thing you read today that has nothing to do with the holidays. While Scrooge’s bad behaviors juxtapose most dramatically with Christmastime, it’s safe to say that he was a miser all year. Which is exactly what this post is about. It’s no secret that the … [Read more…]
It’s almost turkey time in the States. While I understand the holiday’s roots are questionable, and holidays in general can be a difficult time for people, I always find myself awash with gratitude this time of year. Over the past few weeks, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what I’m grateful for and … [Read more…]
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and it’s also the spendiest. Or is it? If you believe news channels or angry tweets, then maybe. It seems that most people look at this time of year as one in which we lose what little willpower we have and become total gluttons, mindlessly downing empty … [Read more…]
Alright, alright. With Thanksgiving time nearly upon us, I’ve been thinking a lot about how much money Americans spend on turkey time each year. About $165, with nearly $68 of that going to travel. In my mind, this number is the problem with averages. If you are flying your family across the country, you’re spending … [Read more…]
Does income matter on the journey to financial independence? Duh. I agreed to be a guest on a podcast panel where I could weigh in on that very question. To be quite honest, I wasn’t sure what I could possibly add to the discussion besides a hearty, “Of course!” Still, I agreed. I anticipated that … [Read more…]
The holiday season is fast approaching. This is the time of year when everyone from your grandma to your favorite news anchor is talking about… Spending. Not what you thought I was going to say, was it? It almost goes without saying that when it comes to a celebration, there is usually some kind of … [Read more…]
Exactly one year ago, my maternity leave ended. In some ways, time has never moved faster. In other ways, I can’t believe how much things still feel the same. But for 365 days, I have had a full-time job in addition to being a mom. My son has spent more of the time that he is … [Read more…]
It started with a beverage. Of course it did. No, I’m not talking about an actual latte. Truth be told, I don’t drink coffee of any kind. Not even the kind that comes with a heaping of high fructose corn syrup and a caramel swirl. This was a Diet Coke. I had some time to … [Read more…]
Oh. You didn’t win the lottery? Bummer. Me neither. OK, fine. You don’t play the lottery. Neither do I. In fact, I have a really hard time doing anything other than sinking a few pennies in the slots in Vegas and cashing out right away. I like my money. Sue me. But still, it’s fun to … [Read more…]
I have been freelancing for a long time. Not in the flashy, six-figure, time to make a course way, but in the holy cats, my job doesn’t pay super well, and I’d like some side money way. This isn’t just about teaching. In high school and college, I worked myriad part-time jobs for minimum wage. … [Read more…]