July 2010

Money Saving Secrets of Super Savers

In this month’s edition of Money Magazine they interviewed 100 dedicated savers to learn their stories and find out the tactics they employ to save 35-60% of their income. All of these couples and individuals are well on their way to a very comfortable early retirement. 1. They set goals, and they make them specific. [...]

{ 19 comments }

Another Reason to Eat Organic Produce

The nutritional value of the fruits and vegetables that we buy in the grocery store is diminishing. In 2004, Donald Davis, PhD, a former researcher with the Biochemical Institute at the University of Texas, Austin, led a team that analyzed 43 fruits and vegetables from 1950 to 1999 and reported reductions in vitamins, minerals, and [...]

{ 4 comments }

Retirement Planning Checklist

It’s never too soon to start saving for retirement. When you’re young time is on your side. If used wisely it’s your greatest asset. However it can be the biggest detriment as retirement seems so far off. It’s easy to put off saving until next year, and then next year, and so on. Next thing [...]

{ 5 comments }

Is it OK to Splurge When You’re in Debt?

I’ve written a lot about our debt here and every month in my Net Worth and Goals updates. Paying off our debt is our top priority after establishing our Emergency Fund. The thought of being debt free makes me giddy and I’m pretty confident that if we follow our plan we will pay it off [...]

{ 11 comments }

Net Worth and Goals: June 2010 – Down -1.8%

Each month I provide an update on how we’re tracking toward our goals. I break it down between Net Worth and Goals for the year. Net Worth: Another down month thanks to the market. I am curious to see if we’re just experiencing a pull back or if we are entering a bear market. However, [...]

{ 2 comments }

Are Babies a Frugality Killer?

In the past month, since giving birth to our son, my husband has asked me on several occasions, “What happened to my frugal wife?” And I say to him, “I had a baby.” That’s right, having a baby has brought out the worst anti-frugal tendencies in me. And if you’ve ever had a newborn you [...]

{ 5 comments }