My children are “blessed” with big teeth and small mouths. Their teeth are healthy and strong and seemingly resistant to cavities, which is good. But their teeth are way too big to fit into their small mouths. And you know what that means. Orthodontics. We’ve already been down the road to the orthodontist once. My … Read more4 Ways to Save Money on Braces and Orthodontics
For a couple of months, my 10-year-old son has been saving his allowance, and the money he earns doing other things, up for a specific Lego set extension. (Before he can save up for those types of short-term goals, he pays tithing and he sets money aside in his long-term savings account.) He barely managed … Read moreTeaching Your Child the Value of Patience when Spending Money
The personal finance blogosphere has a history of sharing information about finances. This includes information about net worth, as well as sources of income and regular expenses. I’ve never got too into the practice of sharing the details of my finances with the world; I’m not even that interested in sharing the details of my … Read moreDo You Share Financial Information with Your Family?
You hear about it all the time. A family patriarch passes away, and the man’s children suddenly begin arguing about how to handle the estate. Who inherits what? Is the executor of the will really doing his job ethically? I’ve seen it happen to families I know personally. I’ve seen it happen to famous families … Read moreKeeping Your Family Peace After Your Death
Many years ago, before I quit my job to become a stay at home mom to my first child, I had visions of leisurely days at home. Sure, I’d spend a little time cleaning the house, but I’d have plenty of time for playing with my baby, reading good books, and making beautiful meals for … Read moreProductivity Tips and Tools for Stay at Home Moms
My parents aren’t exactly elderly yet, so I’m not terribly worried about how they’re doing with money. However, before my grandfather died I saw what an impact his diminishing judgment had on my parents, and I see the impact my husband’s grandmother’s finances are having on my in-laws. Luckily, in both cases, smart decisions are … Read more5 Mistakes to Avoid When Helping Your Elderly Parents with Finances
Right now, thousands of almost-freshmen are preparing to attend college. While it is is tempting to buy a bunch of decor and try to spruce things up in your dorm room or apartment, it might not be the best idea. As you get ready to head out to college, here are 7 helpful tips to … Read more7 Helpful Tips for College Freshman
It’s that time of year when all of the senior high school students just graduated, or are about to go through their graduation. As parents this can either be extremely easy on you, or incredibly difficult. If you have more than one child, letting go of the first one is easier than letting go of … Read moreYour Child is Graduating. Are You Ready to Let Go?
As my oldest child starts high school this year, I find myself thinking more and more about what her life will look like after she graduates. Of course she will have a big say in what she does after high school, but as her mom, it’s my job to give her lots of guidance. One … Read more7 Alternatives to the Traditional Four Year College
Adding a new child to the family is an exciting time. Since finalizing our adoption last week, our lives have been filled with congratulatory phone calls, celebrations, and a general merry atmosphere. We were so focused on settling in at home after our trip out of state for the finalization, that I almost forgot some … Read moreThings to Do After the Birth or Adoption of a Child