The National Retail Federation reports that, in 2014, the average American spent a whopping $133.91 on Valentine’s Day cards, dinners out, candy and flowers. While you might want to treat your sweetheart to a fancy meal or bouquet of long-stem roses, you’re not made of money. You have a significant other, but you also have…
Although you might not want to admit it, your car is starting to show signs of age. From mysterious creaks and oil leaks in the driveway to the odometer that is creeping up to 150,000 miles and beyond. These are all signs your beloved car is probably getting ready to retire. While you know you…
Household budgeting is an important part of managing finances. Without a budget, it can be hard to manage where your money is spent efficiently. The lack of a budget is one of the main reasons why many people struggle to live within their means. Beyond the lack of a budget, another potential mistake is to…
Life can sure be a interesting ride a lot of the time. Things don’t always go as you might have planned. You might remember a few months ago I told you a story about how I was hit by a car as I walked across the street, when I was living in Chicago. That was…
A budget is an essential step towards financial responsibility and stability but certain thing can seriously derail your plans if left unchecked. Here are five budget killers that you should avoid: Addictions Nothing puts a strain on your finances in the same way as an addiction. In most cases, when someone takes a financial misstep…
Trying to get your finances under control can be stressful. In recent years the cost of living has risen to astronomical levels and even the most carefully structured monthly budgets for your home or your business can still turn out a few unexpected surprises. The problem often lies with irregular and unexpected payments which aren’t…
If you own a dog you probably already know full well just how expensive (yet rewarding!) owning a pet can be. I know when I was contemplating getting my dog, Murray, everyone who tried to talk me out of it cited the same reason; pets, (like children) are expensive. Except no one I know has…