Turning 50 has made me think about how I want to live the next 50 years. And that thought process has sparked a fiscal battle between the competing goals of retirement savings, emergency fund and college savings accounts.
After some thought, I ordered my priorities:
1. Emergency Fund: This account will be my No 1 priority for the next six months. The goal is to build the account until I have enough savings to cover living expenses for three months.
2. College Savings: With teenage and tweenage kids, building an education fund is another top priority.
3. Retirement Savings: I don't plan to retire. But from about age 70 and on, I would like to run a small business and that will require capital. A robust retirement account will provide start-up capital and flexibility for me to pick and choose my clients
Over the next six months, I will experiment with strategies and options for building those accounts. I am curious about your goals and strategies.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Low-Cost, No-Cost Entertainment Ideas for Guests & Children
With a full house of grandchildren and other out-of-town guests, my friend Rosalie discovered creative ways to entertain without spending a lot of money. Using time and creativity, she kept her visitors occupied and happy. I plan to use some of her tips during future school breaks.
Here's what she did:
• Look for promotions: Periodically, local attractions -- museums, zoos or aquariums -- will lower the price of annual membership with attractive offers. For example, a single-day entrance ticket can be upgraded to a year-long membership for a small additional fee. Rosalie recently found similar offers at Seaquarium and Parrot Jungle. With affordable membership passes, she and her grandchildren made repeat visits to those attractions with minimal costs after the initial purchase. Promotional deals are advertised online and through traditional media sources.
• Try simplicity: Rosalie took her grandchildren on long walks through the neighborhood, to the beach and to area parks. The children and the adults enjoyed the ocean waves and the sight of an iguana walking on a neighborhood sidewalk. Every neighborhood has eye candy, and an attentive resident can serve as a tour guide. Last summer, I traveled with my children to Washington, D.C. We visited museums and attractions, but a free walking tour of the city created some of the most memorable moments.
• Hit the kitchen: Whipping egg whites into foam and other supervised kitchen duties provided hours of fun for Rosalie and her young visitors. Baking provides sweet desserts and a sense of accomplishment. For ideas and recipes, visit the library and sample the wide range of cookbooks for children. My daughter recently checked out Delicious Drinks to Sip, Slurp, Gulps and Guzzle by Rose Dunnington (Lark Books, 2006). Inspired by the recipes, she invented her own smoothies.
______________
Here's what she did:
• Look for promotions: Periodically, local attractions -- museums, zoos or aquariums -- will lower the price of annual membership with attractive offers. For example, a single-day entrance ticket can be upgraded to a year-long membership for a small additional fee. Rosalie recently found similar offers at Seaquarium and Parrot Jungle. With affordable membership passes, she and her grandchildren made repeat visits to those attractions with minimal costs after the initial purchase. Promotional deals are advertised online and through traditional media sources.
• Try simplicity: Rosalie took her grandchildren on long walks through the neighborhood, to the beach and to area parks. The children and the adults enjoyed the ocean waves and the sight of an iguana walking on a neighborhood sidewalk. Every neighborhood has eye candy, and an attentive resident can serve as a tour guide. Last summer, I traveled with my children to Washington, D.C. We visited museums and attractions, but a free walking tour of the city created some of the most memorable moments.
• Hit the kitchen: Whipping egg whites into foam and other supervised kitchen duties provided hours of fun for Rosalie and her young visitors. Baking provides sweet desserts and a sense of accomplishment. For ideas and recipes, visit the library and sample the wide range of cookbooks for children. My daughter recently checked out Delicious Drinks to Sip, Slurp, Gulps and Guzzle by Rose Dunnington (Lark Books, 2006). Inspired by the recipes, she invented her own smoothies.
______________
Thursday, April 23, 2009
How to Earn Extra Money: Tips From Kiplinger's
"If you’ve lost your job, taken a pay cut or are just looking for ways to boost your income, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance offers this guest post with tips for generating extra cash.
Tutor Students Some parents are willing to pay big bucks to see Junior and Janie succeed. So if you speak a second language, such as Spanish or French, or have great math, science or writing skills, you might be able to earn extra cash imparting your knowledge to kids – even college students for $20-30 an hour. Check with local schools and universities to see if you can advertise your services on their bulletin boards. Or post your services on Craigslist.
Join A Street Sales Team This is a relatively easy way for young adults who are outgoing and articulate to earn some fast cash. Street teams promote products, films, albums, events and more by handing out samples, interacting with people on the street, or dressing as mascots. To get a job at $17 to $25 an hour, sign up with a company such as Street Team Promotion.com or A.D.D. Marketing. Actually, if you sign up with several companies, you’re more likely to get a steady flow of jobs, says James Aquafredda, managing director of Street Team Promotion.com. Make sure, though, that the company has a contract that specifies when you’ll get paid.
Walk Dogs Why not get a little exercise while you earn up to $15-30 an hour? Working folks will pay plenty for you to take Rover or Scruffy on a daily stroll while they’re at the office or on site. If you don’t want to brave the elements, you might consider pet sitting for people while they’re on vacation. Advertise your services in veterinarians’ offices and on Craigslist.
Write For The Web Sorry, Kiplinger.com isn’t hiring. But plenty of Web sites are looking for freelancers to write blogs, commentary, and reviews. For example, if you know a lot about a particular subject or region, you might be able to be a “guide” and write articles for About.com (http://beaguide.about.com/ ). In all major U.S. cities, Craigslist has ads for writing gigs. Demand Studios (www.demandstudios.com) offers freelance work for writers, copy editors and filmmakers. The going rate: $15-30 an hour.
Sell Your Hobbies Amateur photographers are in demand to shoot weddings and events, especially in this recession when people can’t afford the high-priced pros. If you’re a great cook, you could hold a workshop or prepare meals for a busy family. The tech-savvy can teach a series of classes on Web design. See what your services might fetch on Craigslist (for free) or in your local paper or community Web site to get going rates, then hang out a virtual shingle.
Sell Your Unwanted Gold Jewelry. Although the price has dropped a bit since the beginning of 2009, this going rate for this precious commodity is still $860 an ounce—a pretty penny for jewelry you no longer wear or that is nothing but a faded memory of a best-forgotten suitor. Gold-buying shops are popping up at malls across America.
Operate A Call Center From Your Home You might consider a job (for up to $14 an hour) with a virtual call center, such as Willow CSN (www.willowcsn.com), West Corp. (www.west.com) or Alpine Access (www.alpineaccess.com). As an independent contractor (or an actual employee with benefits in some cases) for one of these virtual call centers, you will provide customer support for companies such as Office Depot, Sears, J.Crew and even the Internal Revenue Service. In most cases, you must provide your own computer, designated telephone line and high-speed Internet connection --and, in some cases, pay for your training to become a certified agent. But if you have the time, they need “operators standing by.” --Kiplinger's
Here's a link to the full article .
______________
Here's how to buy my new book:
Tutor Students Some parents are willing to pay big bucks to see Junior and Janie succeed. So if you speak a second language, such as Spanish or French, or have great math, science or writing skills, you might be able to earn extra cash imparting your knowledge to kids – even college students for $20-30 an hour. Check with local schools and universities to see if you can advertise your services on their bulletin boards. Or post your services on Craigslist.
Join A Street Sales Team This is a relatively easy way for young adults who are outgoing and articulate to earn some fast cash. Street teams promote products, films, albums, events and more by handing out samples, interacting with people on the street, or dressing as mascots. To get a job at $17 to $25 an hour, sign up with a company such as Street Team Promotion.com or A.D.D. Marketing. Actually, if you sign up with several companies, you’re more likely to get a steady flow of jobs, says James Aquafredda, managing director of Street Team Promotion.com. Make sure, though, that the company has a contract that specifies when you’ll get paid.
Walk Dogs Why not get a little exercise while you earn up to $15-30 an hour? Working folks will pay plenty for you to take Rover or Scruffy on a daily stroll while they’re at the office or on site. If you don’t want to brave the elements, you might consider pet sitting for people while they’re on vacation. Advertise your services in veterinarians’ offices and on Craigslist.
Write For The Web Sorry, Kiplinger.com isn’t hiring. But plenty of Web sites are looking for freelancers to write blogs, commentary, and reviews. For example, if you know a lot about a particular subject or region, you might be able to be a “guide” and write articles for About.com (http://beaguide.about.com/ ). In all major U.S. cities, Craigslist has ads for writing gigs. Demand Studios (www.demandstudios.com) offers freelance work for writers, copy editors and filmmakers. The going rate: $15-30 an hour.
Sell Your Hobbies Amateur photographers are in demand to shoot weddings and events, especially in this recession when people can’t afford the high-priced pros. If you’re a great cook, you could hold a workshop or prepare meals for a busy family. The tech-savvy can teach a series of classes on Web design. See what your services might fetch on Craigslist (for free) or in your local paper or community Web site to get going rates, then hang out a virtual shingle.
Sell Your Unwanted Gold Jewelry. Although the price has dropped a bit since the beginning of 2009, this going rate for this precious commodity is still $860 an ounce—a pretty penny for jewelry you no longer wear or that is nothing but a faded memory of a best-forgotten suitor. Gold-buying shops are popping up at malls across America.
Operate A Call Center From Your Home You might consider a job (for up to $14 an hour) with a virtual call center, such as Willow CSN (www.willowcsn.com), West Corp. (www.west.com) or Alpine Access (www.alpineaccess.com). As an independent contractor (or an actual employee with benefits in some cases) for one of these virtual call centers, you will provide customer support for companies such as Office Depot, Sears, J.Crew and even the Internal Revenue Service. In most cases, you must provide your own computer, designated telephone line and high-speed Internet connection --and, in some cases, pay for your training to become a certified agent. But if you have the time, they need “operators standing by.” --Kiplinger's
Here's a link to the full article .
______________
Here's how to buy my new book:
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Going Green, Saving Money: Eco-Friendly & Frugal Ideas
Eco-friendly products, recycled materials and energy-efficient appliances are savvy investments in the future. And since Earth Day is Wednesday, I've been brainstorming for frugal and eco-friendly tips. It's possible to go green without overspending. Here are a few ideas:
• Instant returns. After purchasing an organic skincare product, I returned a paper shopping bag and a small box to the sales clerk. Without the bag or the excess packaging, the small bottle of skin tonic fit neatly into my purse. I asked the sales clerk to reuse or return the packaging to the manufacturer. This technique is called pre-cycling. It involves selecting food, personal care and household products with recyclable containers or less packaging, according to Trey Granger, a staff member at Earth911.com.
• Cut the water bill. In addition to taking shorter showers and turning off the water while we brush our teeth, there are other creative ways to save water. Consider tossing used cooking water into the garden or plant containers. This multitasking water may also have nutrients that will help your plants, according to Earth911.com.
• Apply vinegar. From skin-care treatments to kitchen countertops, I've found frugal, effective and safe uses for vinegar. For instance, diluted with water, organic apple cider vinegar makes a great hair conditioner. I've used a mix of 30 percent vinegar and 70 percent water with great results. Likewise, white vinegar doubles as an inexpensive, nontoxic cleaner that works well on windows, tiles and kitchen surfaces.
• Shopping detour: As a recreational sport, mindless shopping can fill our carts with future landfill cast-offs. To save money and resources, I've been getting shoes repaired and shopping for new ideas in my existing wardrobe. And when I do shop, I'm making smarter decisions. ''If you don't buy waste, you can't make waste,'' says Raquel Fagan, executive editor of Earth911.com.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Coupon Secrets from Founder of Couponmom.com
There's a method to finding grocery and drugstore bargains online. That's the subject of a profile about Stephanie Nelson, founder of couponmom.com in the latest issue of ALL YOU magazine.
Here are her secrets for finding grocery and drugstore bargains online:
* "Use paperless coupons. Check out shortcuts.com to see if your grocery store offers e-coupons, which are downloadable to the store’s discount card. Once your card is registered card, you can electronically transfer coupons to it.
* Follow a coupon schedule. Get the best deals on Website coupons when advertisers release them at the beginning of the month.
* Avoid rejection. Call ahead to find out if the store you’re headed to accepts coupons printed from the Web."
Here are her secrets for finding grocery and drugstore bargains online:
* "Use paperless coupons. Check out shortcuts.com to see if your grocery store offers e-coupons, which are downloadable to the store’s discount card. Once your card is registered card, you can electronically transfer coupons to it.
* Follow a coupon schedule. Get the best deals on Website coupons when advertisers release them at the beginning of the month.
* Avoid rejection. Call ahead to find out if the store you’re headed to accepts coupons printed from the Web."
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Why Money Goes to Money: A Child's Explanation
Why does money often attract more money? My 11-year-old daughter -- an old soul -- offered some insightful comments about money and saving.
Here's the scenario: From allowances and odd chores, my daughter saved about $100 in pocket money. She's saving to buy her own laptop. But as her stash has grown, she has become increasingly reluctant to part with her money. She now likes the idea of sharing my laptop or the family PC.
"You work so hard to get the money and once you have the money, it's hard to let it go," my daughter told me about a few weeks ago.
For awhile, she continued to save and hold onto her funds. Basically, my daughter learned the power of momentum. Once saving becomes a habit, she has learned, momentum provides financial assistance.
Unfortunately, a recent trip to a local mall taught my daughter another lesson about money and spending.
"Once you buy one thing, it's hard to stop. That's what I found," my daughter said. "When I bought one key chain, I ended the day with $30 less."
The lesson: Shopping can become an addicitve behavior that can drain your savings account. My daughter is still trying to figure out how she spent 30 percent of her money in one afternoon.
Her final word: "Don't bring all of your money shopping."
Here's the scenario: From allowances and odd chores, my daughter saved about $100 in pocket money. She's saving to buy her own laptop. But as her stash has grown, she has become increasingly reluctant to part with her money. She now likes the idea of sharing my laptop or the family PC.
"You work so hard to get the money and once you have the money, it's hard to let it go," my daughter told me about a few weeks ago.
For awhile, she continued to save and hold onto her funds. Basically, my daughter learned the power of momentum. Once saving becomes a habit, she has learned, momentum provides financial assistance.
Unfortunately, a recent trip to a local mall taught my daughter another lesson about money and spending.
"Once you buy one thing, it's hard to stop. That's what I found," my daughter said. "When I bought one key chain, I ended the day with $30 less."
The lesson: Shopping can become an addicitve behavior that can drain your savings account. My daughter is still trying to figure out how she spent 30 percent of her money in one afternoon.
Her final word: "Don't bring all of your money shopping."
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Spring Cleaning Uncovers Fall School Supplies
The annual ritual of spring cleaning has paid an unexpected bonus. I now have a money-saving head start on another annual ritual: back-to-school shopping. My closets, drawers and filing cabinets have yielded enough writing and craft supplies to stock a small stationery store. As a result, I will spend far less on binders, pens, markers, notebooks and poster boards in the fall.Here's how I plan to save time and money with this surprise stash of materials:
• Create a master list: Every year, I ''find'' new or barely used school supplies around the home. But in a rush to get the kids ready for the fall, I sometimes earn poor grades for recycling. This year, I plan to get the most out of my home store by maintaining an inventory list. On a yellow pad of ruled paper, I've started tracking our school and office supplies. Next fall, I plan to compare the home inventory list with the supply lists provided by my children's teachers. This comparison should reduce the time and money consumed by back-to-school shopping.
• Enlist the kids: I found spiral and composition notebooks that range from new-but-dusty to barely touched. To encourage my children to use existing supplies, I will give the kids a percentage of what we save by not buying new supplies.
• Repackage: Our crayon stash looks rather colorless in a plastic bag that has become clouded with age. It's a faded turnoff. My daughter prefers crayons tucked into a neat box. I plan, however, to repackage the older crayons in an attractive, but reusable container. Additionally, other supplies can benefit from quick upgrades, including the vinyl covers of notebook binders. A quick wipe or a few stickers offer easy makeovers for older supplies.
To be honest, I tackled spring cleaning with more passion this year. I looked into bins and corners that have been untouched for years. As result, I cleared out more clutter and found more treasure, including a stash of poster boards that were tucked behind a bedroom dresser. We now have a two-year supply of poster boards for science fair projects.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Insights from a Sweater Mom: Lessons From Michelle Obama's Wardrobe
I'm a sweater mom, but Michelle Obama's blue argyle sweater left me cold. Otherwise, I cheered her recent G-20 wardrobe selections, and I picked up some valuable tips about fashion, finance and life from Michelle Obama's wardrobe.Here's what I learned:
*Know your market: At least one major designer has complained about Michelle O's decision to favor minor designers and J. Crew. There are those who lobby for a head-to-toe haute couture fashion statement. First of all, I think most of her fashion choices were stunning. Second, given the state of the global economy, a trunk full of big-ticket designer garments would have been a poor choice. On the world stage and in our personal dressing rooms, conspicuous spending is out.
Conversely, what's most striking about each of Mrs. Obama's appearances is not the grandiose message, diverse labels or designers' origins. Rather, it is their unmistakable, uniform accessibility and appropriateness. -- InStyle.com on CNN
*Know your audience: I appreciate Michelle Obama's effort to look approachable at a girl's school in London. It's important for clothing, attitudes and finances to match the occasion. One of my worst fashion disasters occurred when I was impeccably dressed in a very trendy brown suit with matching shoes. Unfortunately, the chic outfit looked out of place at a children's carnival, where I was hanging out with my children who were in pre-school and in elementary school at the time. As a working mother running from the office, I had run straight from work to the carnival. It was great to be there, but I had wished that I had worn an outfit that would have met my multi-tasking lifestyle. My personal rule: Flexibility and diversity are important in fashion and finance.
Sweaters are frugal: Confession: In the years since my carnival disaster, I've become a sweater mom. Here's why: Sweaters can be worn with gowns, jean skirts, a-line power skirts and with sweat pants. Sweaters can look hip, trendy, edgy, practical or homey. Basically, sweaters are good investments and are a staple in my wardrobe.
Mistakes happen: Yes, I love sweaters, especially the sparkling sweater the First Lady wore with a pencil skirt. However, I think the blue argyle sweater was a fashion misstep. I also disliked the white shirt with the huge bow. But you know what: mistakes happen when we're active and taking risks. What's more, something that looks like a mistake to one person, could appear as a savvy move to someone else.
It's just seams: Fashion is just thread, button and seams. There are more important issues and patterns to target. One of Michelle Obama's most memorable moments in Europe occurred during a blue-sweater moment when she urged an audience of school girl's to use their brains and study hard. Who cares who made the sweater or how much it cost? Her words --not her wardrobe -- provided the biggest fashion statement.
"I'm an example of what is possible when girls from the very beginning of their lives are loved and nurtured by people around them," she told them, adding "you too can control your own destiny." --Michelle Obama
Friday, April 03, 2009
Consumer Reports Gives High Grades to Low-Cost Brokers
This report is from Consumer Reports:
"Discount brokers did a better job shepherding clients through the stock market upheaval of the past year than traditional investment banks, according to Consumer Reports survey of the most satisfying brokerage firm services.
Topping the list in overall satisfaction was USAA, available only to current and former military personnel and their families. USAA earned high marks for account service, Web site ease of use, transactions and phone services. Vanguard followed closely in the Ratings and Edward Jones had high marks for phone services.
Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed almost 9,000 online subscribers asking them about their experiences with their brokerage firms regarding several services including transactions and general customer service, Web site ease of use, online transactions and their instances of problems with phone and personal service between January 2008 and 2009.
Rounding out the list of brokerage firms that respondents found to provide high scores for services were Schwab, Scottrade, Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and T. Rowe Price. Though half of survey respondents said their investment portfolios plummeted, most respondents were relatively happy with the level of service and advice they received.
However, bigger brokerages, such as Merrill Lynch and Ameriprise, placed lower in the Ratings earning below average scores for their Web sites. Ameriprise also received relatively low marks for phone service. The survey revealed some additional complaints, even among discount brokers. E-Trade clients reported a higher number of phone-service problems and said they were unable to find information on the company’s Web site 35 percent of the time.
E-Trade, Scottrade, and TD Ameritrade were among the lower-rated companies for financial advice, which is not surprising because they are bare-bones discounters. Unexpected fees continue to irk clients, about 4 percent said they were hit with unexpected fees. Banc of America clients reported the most, with 11 percent saying they were charged unexpected fees. For more information on the survey and complete broker service ratings check out Consumer Reports May issue or visit www.ConsumerReports.org starting May 6, 2009. "
— 30 —
"Discount brokers did a better job shepherding clients through the stock market upheaval of the past year than traditional investment banks, according to Consumer Reports survey of the most satisfying brokerage firm services.
Topping the list in overall satisfaction was USAA, available only to current and former military personnel and their families. USAA earned high marks for account service, Web site ease of use, transactions and phone services. Vanguard followed closely in the Ratings and Edward Jones had high marks for phone services.
Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed almost 9,000 online subscribers asking them about their experiences with their brokerage firms regarding several services including transactions and general customer service, Web site ease of use, online transactions and their instances of problems with phone and personal service between January 2008 and 2009.
Rounding out the list of brokerage firms that respondents found to provide high scores for services were Schwab, Scottrade, Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and T. Rowe Price. Though half of survey respondents said their investment portfolios plummeted, most respondents were relatively happy with the level of service and advice they received.
However, bigger brokerages, such as Merrill Lynch and Ameriprise, placed lower in the Ratings earning below average scores for their Web sites. Ameriprise also received relatively low marks for phone service. The survey revealed some additional complaints, even among discount brokers. E-Trade clients reported a higher number of phone-service problems and said they were unable to find information on the company’s Web site 35 percent of the time.
E-Trade, Scottrade, and TD Ameritrade were among the lower-rated companies for financial advice, which is not surprising because they are bare-bones discounters. Unexpected fees continue to irk clients, about 4 percent said they were hit with unexpected fees. Banc of America clients reported the most, with 11 percent saying they were charged unexpected fees. For more information on the survey and complete broker service ratings check out Consumer Reports May issue or visit www.ConsumerReports.org starting May 6, 2009. "
— 30 —
Weekly Roundup: Links I Liked & Frugal Blog Network
Here are a few posts that caught my eye this week.
From The Money Muse: The Big Picture: What is My Purpose in Life?
From Sick of Being Poor: Hoping for the best, preparing for the worst
From The Digerati Life: Money Matters Site: Financial Resource For Credit Card Management and More
From The Simple Dollar: Synergy in Life and Money
From the FrugalBlogNetwork:
Frugal Zeitgeist: Horrible financial dream
Last night I woke up at 4:00 am, thanks to a nightmare. I dreamed that my role at work had been phased out (which is nice-speak for firing someone and dressing it up like a layoff) and that I had no severance and no savings.
Almost Frugal: Back to the Frugal Basics: Building a Budget
So you have a dream, and you have a goal. But just having goals doesn’t get you any closer to meeting them. The first step towards becoming more frugal, meeting your goals, achieving financial responsibility (and all sorts of other good stuff) is building a budget.
Not Made of Money: Paying Off Credit Card Debt
Paying off credit card debt has been in the news a lot with the current economy. Credit card debt is a plague that has stricken countless families in the United States.
Frugal Babe: When A $45 Hair Cut Is A Bargain
I got my hair cut yesterday. This would not normally be a newsworthy event, but in my case it had been 14 months since I had a hair cut.
@ Target.com
From The Money Muse: The Big Picture: What is My Purpose in Life?
From Sick of Being Poor: Hoping for the best, preparing for the worst
From The Digerati Life: Money Matters Site: Financial Resource For Credit Card Management and More
From The Simple Dollar: Synergy in Life and Money
From the FrugalBlogNetwork:
Frugal Zeitgeist: Horrible financial dream
Last night I woke up at 4:00 am, thanks to a nightmare. I dreamed that my role at work had been phased out (which is nice-speak for firing someone and dressing it up like a layoff) and that I had no severance and no savings.
Almost Frugal: Back to the Frugal Basics: Building a Budget
So you have a dream, and you have a goal. But just having goals doesn’t get you any closer to meeting them. The first step towards becoming more frugal, meeting your goals, achieving financial responsibility (and all sorts of other good stuff) is building a budget.
Not Made of Money: Paying Off Credit Card Debt
Paying off credit card debt has been in the news a lot with the current economy. Credit card debt is a plague that has stricken countless families in the United States.
Frugal Babe: When A $45 Hair Cut Is A Bargain
I got my hair cut yesterday. This would not normally be a newsworthy event, but in my case it had been 14 months since I had a hair cut.
@ Target.com
Thursday, April 02, 2009
H&R Block Offers Free Second Opinions of Tax Returns
I'm curious if anyone plans or has used this free second-opinion tax review offer from H&R Block. Here's the item:
"Common errors translate into millions of dollars that are due to taxpayers. In fact, H&R Block found $1.8 million nationally on Friday (March 27th) alone. The hunt continues this weekend as H&R Block offers free professional, second opinions on completed tax returns. This community service event is free and open to the public at participating H&R Block locations on April 3, 4, and 5.
For a limited time, H&R Block tax professionals will provide free reviews for missed tax deductions on returns that were self-prepared or completed by other tax professionals.
Taxpayers can bring in their 2008 and their previous three years’ returns and a tax professional will evaluate the accuracy of the returns, ensuring all eligible credits and deductions have been claimed. If an error is found on a return, the client will be eligible to re-file. If no errors are found, H&R Block will certify the return with the H&R Block Guarantee.*
“With the economy in a downturn, unemployment rates in an upturn and audits at a 10-year high, we want to help people in our community,” said Patti Griswold, H&R Block district manager. “People are surprised to learn that we find errors in 4 out of 5 tax returns we review. We want to make sure our clients’ returns are accurate and that they’ve claimed all eligible credits and deductions because we understand that every dollar counts.”
* The H&R Block Guarantee is included with every tax return. If you owe penalties or interest charges due to an H&R Block error, H&R Block will pay those penalties and interest on federal, state and local returns. If the IRS audits you, an H&R Block representative will assist you in answering questions regarding the preparation of your return (H&R Block provides tax advice only and not legal services)."
____________
"Common errors translate into millions of dollars that are due to taxpayers. In fact, H&R Block found $1.8 million nationally on Friday (March 27th) alone. The hunt continues this weekend as H&R Block offers free professional, second opinions on completed tax returns. This community service event is free and open to the public at participating H&R Block locations on April 3, 4, and 5.
For a limited time, H&R Block tax professionals will provide free reviews for missed tax deductions on returns that were self-prepared or completed by other tax professionals.
Taxpayers can bring in their 2008 and their previous three years’ returns and a tax professional will evaluate the accuracy of the returns, ensuring all eligible credits and deductions have been claimed. If an error is found on a return, the client will be eligible to re-file. If no errors are found, H&R Block will certify the return with the H&R Block Guarantee.*
“With the economy in a downturn, unemployment rates in an upturn and audits at a 10-year high, we want to help people in our community,” said Patti Griswold, H&R Block district manager. “People are surprised to learn that we find errors in 4 out of 5 tax returns we review. We want to make sure our clients’ returns are accurate and that they’ve claimed all eligible credits and deductions because we understand that every dollar counts.”
* The H&R Block Guarantee is included with every tax return. If you owe penalties or interest charges due to an H&R Block error, H&R Block will pay those penalties and interest on federal, state and local returns. If the IRS audits you, an H&R Block representative will assist you in answering questions regarding the preparation of your return (H&R Block provides tax advice only and not legal services)."
____________
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Brewing a New Life in an Old Yellow Teapot
My yellow enamel teapot will not rest in peace. Nor will it face a rusty death in a bottom of a landfill. With Earth Day approaching on April 22, my goal is to contribute fewer things to waste and landfills. And that includes a teapot whose inside is pocked by rust spots.By recycling the teapot and other cast-off items, I can spend less money and save a small corner of the environment. Finding new uses for old items is a conservation strategy recommended by the nonprofit Air & Waste Management Association, which recommends reusing jars and containers, purchasing durable merchandise and passing up disposable alternatives.
Here are a few ideas for my teapot's second life.
• Plant potter: Our porch is decorated with a mixture of new containers and unusual plant holders from yard sales and garden stores. Washed and shined, the teapot would look great in the garden with a sprig of basil or bunch of pansies.
• Pen holder: A mere mug cannot contain the pens, markers and pencils on my desk. I need a teapot to store my writing utensils and the kids' crayons.
• Napkin centerpiece: My multitasking teapot will serve as a centerpiece, linen storage and a napkin holder during meals and dinner parties. I envision elegantly folded cloth napkins arranged in a teapot in the center of the table.
• Cord camouflage: Small electronic cords and cables dangle from hooks and nails like small snakes in a reptile house. Coiled, wrapped and tidied, those cables -- for cellphones, digital cameras, MP3 players -- would fit nicely into the mouth and body of the teapot.
• Beauty storage: Barrettes, cotton balls, nail polish and other beauty accessories can be neatly tucked into the round belly of the teapot.
That's just a start. Looking around my house, I have spotted pitchers that can be recycled into funky vases and baskets that can be used to hold socks, sewing kits and other trinkets.
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Here's how to buy my new book:
Monday, March 30, 2009
Fatal Tragedy During the Morning Commute: Suicide or Accident?
A man fell or jumped onto the train tracks this morning, during my morning commute to work. The tragedy occured at the station near my office. Police, fireman, news helicopters and other emergency response teams were all on the scene. Here's the Miami Herald story about the fatality: Metrorail train hits, kills man in South Miami
Due to a series of minor morning mishaps -- ill-timed phone calls, a wardrobe malfunction and heavy traffic on the highway -- I caught a later train than usual. That train was halted several stations before my usual stop, and the passengers were directed to shuttle buses that took us near our destination. The experience produced the following insights:
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Here's how to buy my book:
Due to a series of minor morning mishaps -- ill-timed phone calls, a wardrobe malfunction and heavy traffic on the highway -- I caught a later train than usual. That train was halted several stations before my usual stop, and the passengers were directed to shuttle buses that took us near our destination. The experience produced the following insights:
- Don't make assumptions. Online and in conversations, theories circulated about the jumper, who was a man. Early on, folks speculated that he had fallen; others assumed it was a suicide. A credible source told me that it was, indeed, a suicide, but I don't know for sure. Additionally, there were cruel speculations about the train conductor. People wanted to know: Was she texting? Was she on a cell phone? Why couldn't she stop the train before hitting him? I have no answers to those questions. But I what I do know that it's not fair or wise to make assumptions about life, death, finances or relationships.
- Seek help when needed: While trying to find facts for this post, I chatted with an officer. He had a theory, but no hard facts about the fatality. However, he did tell me that he's heard of more people jumping from trains in the last year. And of course, there have been recent news reports of financially-strapped workers or executives, who have committed suicide and/or killed family members. Friends, suicide hotlines, clergy leaders and community centers are resources if you are troubled or if you think a co-worker is suffering from a mental health crisis.
- Make a reality check: Before the facts were known, many commuters grumbled about the long delay, the crowded shuttle bus that provided alternate transportation and the general lack of information. We were all clueless about the delay. Waves of inpatience churned in my stomach. And then the shuttle bus dropped me off in front of the station. I saw the yellow crime tape, the tumult and the police. A fire truck ladder was extended to the above-ground track, where the rescue team was working on some manuever involving the train and the tracks. I looked away and walked to work. Those earlier waves of impatience were replaced with waves of gratitude as I felt lucky to be alive and in good health. And finally, I felt sad about the person who had fallen, slipped or jumped onto the tracks. May his soul rest in peace.
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Here's how to buy my book:
Friday, March 27, 2009
Spring Clean Your Money -- A Guest Post & Personal Cleaning Tools
I like the idea of spring cleaning my finances. My number one tool is to sort through my paper piles and other clutter. I have found financial records by dusting, sorting and filing. My second tool is a pen-and-paper and a laptop, which I use to track my finances.
These following tips about spring cleaning your money are from a subsidiary affiliated with a major bank. I'm neutral on the institution, but I like their information. Here are their tips:
1. Gather your financial records. Pull together your financial statements (e.g., bank, credit card, brokerage), your insurance and legal documents (e.g., life insurance, will, healthcare proxy), and your personal records (e.g., birth certificate, marriage/divorce certificate, property deed). Create a filing system and put a copy of your important papers either in a fireproof box at home, a bank safe deposit box, and/or with a trusted lawyer, relative, or friend.
2. Get the big picture. Use your financial statements to calculate your net worth, which will tell you the difference between what you own (assets) and what you owe (liabilities). Once you have a picture of your overall net worth, determine your cash flow, which will help you identify areas where you could be saving and/or investing more.
3. Set financial goals. Short-term goals are those you’d like to accomplish within one year (e.g., pay off credit cards); mid-term goals, within 5 years (e.g., make down payment on a new home); and long-term goals, 5 years or more (e.g., save for retirement). Write these down to help you clarify and prioritize your financial goals.
4. Allocate your money. Once you know your financial goals, allocate your money accordingly. This will help you determine how realistic your financial goals are, how long it may take to meet them, and what adjustments you may need to make now to achieve your goals in your desired time frame. Review expenses monthly and evaluate your progress regularly.
5. Check your financial reputation. Your credit score is a picture of your financial health in the eyes of lenders. Check your credit reports as they could have errors or discrepancies that could limit your access to credit. Resolve any errors and if you have any over-due payments, work towards paying them down as soon as you can. The three organizations that issue the most commonly referred to credit reports are: Equifax (www.equifax.com), TransUnion (www.transunion.com) and Experian (www.experian.com).
6. Protect yourself. If you don’t have a will, living will, or health care proxy, speak to an attorney to help ensure that your assets are handled according to your wishes. Dealing with these issues today can help you and your loved ones breathe easier in the future.
7. Stay informed and engaged. Periodically review your goals and objectives at least once a year, as they will likely shift over time as life circumstances change." --source: Lisa Caputo and Linda Descano of Women & Co.
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Here's how to buy my book:
These following tips about spring cleaning your money are from a subsidiary affiliated with a major bank. I'm neutral on the institution, but I like their information. Here are their tips:
1. Gather your financial records. Pull together your financial statements (e.g., bank, credit card, brokerage), your insurance and legal documents (e.g., life insurance, will, healthcare proxy), and your personal records (e.g., birth certificate, marriage/divorce certificate, property deed). Create a filing system and put a copy of your important papers either in a fireproof box at home, a bank safe deposit box, and/or with a trusted lawyer, relative, or friend.
2. Get the big picture. Use your financial statements to calculate your net worth, which will tell you the difference between what you own (assets) and what you owe (liabilities). Once you have a picture of your overall net worth, determine your cash flow, which will help you identify areas where you could be saving and/or investing more.
3. Set financial goals. Short-term goals are those you’d like to accomplish within one year (e.g., pay off credit cards); mid-term goals, within 5 years (e.g., make down payment on a new home); and long-term goals, 5 years or more (e.g., save for retirement). Write these down to help you clarify and prioritize your financial goals.
4. Allocate your money. Once you know your financial goals, allocate your money accordingly. This will help you determine how realistic your financial goals are, how long it may take to meet them, and what adjustments you may need to make now to achieve your goals in your desired time frame. Review expenses monthly and evaluate your progress regularly.
5. Check your financial reputation. Your credit score is a picture of your financial health in the eyes of lenders. Check your credit reports as they could have errors or discrepancies that could limit your access to credit. Resolve any errors and if you have any over-due payments, work towards paying them down as soon as you can. The three organizations that issue the most commonly referred to credit reports are: Equifax (www.equifax.com), TransUnion (www.transunion.com) and Experian (www.experian.com).
6. Protect yourself. If you don’t have a will, living will, or health care proxy, speak to an attorney to help ensure that your assets are handled according to your wishes. Dealing with these issues today can help you and your loved ones breathe easier in the future.
7. Stay informed and engaged. Periodically review your goals and objectives at least once a year, as they will likely shift over time as life circumstances change." --source: Lisa Caputo and Linda Descano of Women & Co.
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Here's how to buy my book:
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Stashing a Can of Coke in the Company Frig Saves $140
A friend of mine skips past the vending machine where a can or bottle of Diet Coke is $1.25 per container. Instead, from home she brings a can of soda to work every day for a lot less. She purchases a case of soda from the grocery store for a fraction of the unit price charged by the vending machine. Every morning, she chills the can in the office frig until mid-afternoon when she needs a shot of caffeine.
Consider the numbers: Office Depot sells a case of Diet Coke for $12.99. For that price, you get 24 cans of 12-ounce soda for $12.99 or 54 cents a can. In five days, she saves: $3.55. For a one-month period, she saves: $14.20, which equals: $170.40 over a 12-month period.
Here are other Diet Coke prices:
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Here's how to buy my book:
Consider the numbers: Office Depot sells a case of Diet Coke for $12.99. For that price, you get 24 cans of 12-ounce soda for $12.99 or 54 cents a can. In five days, she saves: $3.55. For a one-month period, she saves: $14.20, which equals: $170.40 over a 12-month period.
Here are other Diet Coke prices:
- 32-pack for $15.99 or 49 cents a can at San Francisco Wine Trading Company
- 24-pack for $8.63 or 36 cents a can at Bright Shine
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Here's how to buy my book:
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
I Found The Name of The Ugly Tree: Dead Man's Finger
Last Tuesday, I wrote Financial Lessons from an Ugly Tree. This week, I've learned about the financial power of research and gut feelings. How ugly is the tree? "Dead Man's Finger" is one of the common nicknames for an ugly tree that has stunningly beautiful flowers. Here's my latest list of lessons:Trust your gut: When I looked at its branches, I thought the tree looked like a cluster of misshapen fingers. I felt validated when I found this description: "It can look awful without its leaves," according to this source. For that reason, the tree is called "Dead Man's Finger" in Australia. From this exercise, I've learned about the validity of my gut instincts. Financially and personally, we often get flashes of insights that prove to be correct. I'm not talking about wishful thinking, but those true-to-the-bone feelings that later haunt us when we ignore our inner verdicts. My worst mistakes have occurred when I have ignored a gut reaction to business opportunities or other scenarios.
- Don't settle: While trying to put together this post, I was tempted to settle for answers that were almost true. It was tempting to chose easier options, and no one but me would know exactly what tree caught my attention last week. But I continued to search for the right tree. I wanted to be honest with myself and with you. In money and other areas of life, it's often tempting to settle for almost-but-not quite or for less than our best efforts. This exercise taught me to demand more of myself.
- Be open-minded: I was so thrilled with the vivid description. Dead Man's Finger! That said it all and that nickname fit so well with my plans for this post. But, honestly, there were other vivid nicknames for the tree, including: Jasmine de Cayenne (Brazil), Pagoda Tree or Temple Tree (India), Egg Flower (southern China) , Amapola (Venezuela), according to this source. And by the way, the scientific name is Plumeria . Although, common sense is valuable, it's also important to keep an open mind when evaluating investments, financial planning, frugal choices and personal relationships. One term or plant can have different meanings depending on the observer, setting and language.
- Expect the Unexpected: Who would think that such an ugly tree would produce such beautiful flowers? "Its flowers are the ones used to form the colorful, tropical flower necklaces (lei) every tourist to our 50th state [Hawaii] wears during at least one beach party," according to this source. Plumeria Frangipani --also known as Dead Man's Finger or Egg Flower -- has taught me to keep my eyes open.
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Here's how to buy my book:
Monday, March 23, 2009
Listen to Me on WLRN & Follow Up on Twitter
Please tune into WLRN, an NPR station, on Tuesday, March 24, at 1 p.m. I'll be a guest on Topical Currents, an hour-long show hosted by Joseph Cooper, pictured left. We're going to be talking about money-saving tips and other frugal living topics.Listen online, by going to the WLRN home page and hitting the Listen Online button at the top of the page. Of course, if you're in the South Florida area, just tune into 91.3 on the FM band.
And I'm also twittering. I write random stuff that varies from self-promotional blather to insightful, almost haiku word blasts about spring cleaning. Catch me in an over-sharing mood at twitter.com/FrugalDuchess
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Here's how to buy my book:
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Lessons From Spring Cleaning: Finding Myself in Clutter
Spring cleaning has created a head-on collision between my need for financial order and my pack rat tendencies. My paper collection includes cards and letters from 1987, old photographs and a 1980s-era cassette with lyrics from one of my favorite singers. Spring cleaning has taught me a lot about past accounts. Here's what I've learned:- Read the fine print and the large print: As I've reviewed older documents -- bank statements, letters and old cards -- I see how many significant details I've misunderstood, overlooked or dismissed in the past. Hindsight, of course, is 20/20. But as I sort through the pages of emotional and fiscal accounts, I carry forward lessons about the importance of carefully reading, digesting and acting on contracts, financial agreements and personal engagements. I've learned to carefully analyze contracts and contacts before taking action.
- Follow through: In a recent post about an ugly tree, I promised readers that I would do some homework and discover the name of the tree. A reader has even left a comment asking me to make good on my word. Today I cringed when I realized that I had forgotten about that promise. In fact, as I sort through my photos, I have been confronted with a vast collection of broken promises. For example, I see scrapbooks that I meant to assemble, savings targets that I have missed and letters that I have never answered. With that 20/20 hindsight, I have better insights for the present and the future. Insights have led to a practical action plan. I've created a master list of projects -- financial, personal, creative -- and I plan to check in on that list nightly and to make more time to follow through on goals and promises.
- Slow down: So many financial goals and personal promises floundered because I have lived life at high speed. I've moved from one so-called emergency to another, and in that speed I have created deeper problems and gaps in my assorted accounts. I now take more time to think, breathe and meditate. My goal is to move further ahead by moving slower.
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Here's how to buy my new book:
Friday, March 20, 2009
How I Sabotaged My Emergency Fund: 5 Mistakes & Cures
Common wisdom tells us to have an Emergency Fund with at least three to six months of living expenses. I'm on my way to that savings target, but my efforts have been hit by setbacks. Here's where I have made mistakes, and here's how I plan to fix those errors:1) Easy Access: For the sake of electronic ease, the account containing the Emergency Fund was linked to my primary checking account. Bad move! For sure, that link made it easier to transfer money into the Emergency Fund. But that same e-link made it easier to transfer money out of the Emergency Fund.
Solution: The April 2009 issue of Money Magazine offers this advice: "Your emergency fund -- cash you'll need if you lose a job -- must be in a bank account that's 100 percent safe but needn't be so convenient; if you get a good yield, don't worry if it takes a day or two to transfer the money."
2) Multi-tasking funds: I've erred by establishing a one-size-fits all savings account. It's too easy to use emergency funds for other savings goals or spending binges.
Solution: Vacation account savings, funds for long-term purchases and emergency money should not be housed together. General household funds also need their own home. "Grocery money goes in checking," according to a great piece featured in Money called: "5 Things to Know About Stashing Your Cash," by Sarah Max. See also: The 7 new rules of financial security
3) Unreasonable goals: Unrealistic targets are formulas for failures. When I set the savings bar too high, I feel defeated and slide back into bad savings habits.
Solution: I'm downsizing my dreams and targets. I'll save more if I demand less.
4) Lack of Priorities: When I pay myself last, I often fail to pay myself at all.
Solution: The Emergency Fund should rank above other savings goals, including vacation accounts, holiday gift funds and other savings targets.
5) Emotional loopholes: As a creative writer, I can be very creative with my rationalizations about saving, spending and living. A wide list of so-called emergencies can rain on the Emergency Fund umbrella.
Solution: Effective April 1, I will track my expenses for a two-month period. This daily accounting should provide an honest picture of where my money is going. Also, I will create and adhere to strict definitions about the emergency cash. It might help to have a lowercase emergency fund for household expenses and an uppercase Emergency Fund with cash sufficient for three to six months of living expenses.
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Here's how to buy my book:
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Downsized Newspaper Editor Launches Family of Frugal Blogs
Teresa Mears -- a friend and an excellent journalist -- is among the many newspaper people who have lost their jobs. She has turned her creative efforts into a series of frugal blogs. Here's the release:
In the current coupon-clipping climate, everyone is asking “how can we save money and still enjoy our lives?” Now, a collection of new local blogs is providing some answers to that question every day.
Miami FL on the Cheap , Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap (http://fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com), Palm Beach on the Cheap (http://palmbeachonthecheap.com) and Florida Keys on the Cheap (http://floridakeysonthecheap.com) help South Florida residents and tourists find daily deals on things like dining, events and activities. Florida on the Cheap (http://floridaonthecheap.com) provides tips and deals for travelers to and within Florida.
The new blogs are edited and published by Teresa Mears, a veteran South Florida journalist – downsized from her newspaper job last year – who has lived in Florida for nearly three decades.
“Everyone — including me—is looking for deals right now,” says Mears, who left The Miami Herald in July after 30 years of writing and editing for newspapers. “And they’re out there. I’m just trying to make it easy for people to find them. Plus, South Florida has so many wonderful free activities – but they’re not always easy to find.”
Over the past several weeks, thrifty readers of South Florida’s “On the Cheap” blogs have learned about deals as diverse as discounted tickets to the Miami International Film Festival, free kids’ meals on Friday nights in Hollywood, free previews of Palm Beach Opera performances and “date night” deals to the Waterfront Playhouse in Key West, plus national food discounts and freebies. That’s in addition to dozens of opportunities to experience music, art, kids’ activities and attractions for free.
The South Florida “On the Cheap” blogs are part of a rapidly growing network of independently owned and operated “Cities on the Cheap” http://www.citiesonthecheap.com websites in the United States and Canada.
Owned mostly by women, the network of blogs grew out of a series of conversation in an online writers’ network. Each editor owns his or her own blog, and the entrepreneurial journalists are working in collaboration. Most, like Mears, had never created a web site before, but nearly all the writers built their own sites. The sites are supported by advertising.
The Cities on the Cheap network is celebrating its official launch Tuesday, March 10, with contests and giveaways on some sites. The South Florida sites will be asking their readers for tips on South Florida deals and will be giving away books that mention money by South Florida writers as diverse as Dave Barry, Frugal Duchess Sharon Harvey Rosenberg and Suze Orman, plus a few Webkinz.
In Florida, On the Cheap blogs are operating in Gainesville, Sarasota and Tampa Bay, with launches expected soon in Orlando and the Florida Panhandle. In addition, Disney on the Cheap focuses on deals to the Disney theme parks.
About Teresa Mears
Teresa Mears is a veteran South Florida journalist. In addition to working as an assistant features editor for The Miami Herald, she has worked for The Los Angeles Times, The St. Petersburg Times, The Gleaner in Henderson, Ky., and The Portland (Tenn.) Leader. As a freelance writer, she contributed to The Boston Globe, The New York Times, Miami Metro, WorldCity Business, Travel & Leisure and other publications. She now runs her own project management, editing and consulting business. She doesn’t clip coupons, but she does buy her clothes in thrift stores and is a devotee of the Publix “buy one, get one free” promotions.
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Here's how to buy my book:
In the current coupon-clipping climate, everyone is asking “how can we save money and still enjoy our lives?” Now, a collection of new local blogs is providing some answers to that question every day.
Miami FL on the Cheap , Fort Lauderdale on the Cheap (http://fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com), Palm Beach on the Cheap (http://palmbeachonthecheap.com) and Florida Keys on the Cheap (http://floridakeysonthecheap.com) help South Florida residents and tourists find daily deals on things like dining, events and activities. Florida on the Cheap (http://floridaonthecheap.com) provides tips and deals for travelers to and within Florida.
The new blogs are edited and published by Teresa Mears, a veteran South Florida journalist – downsized from her newspaper job last year – who has lived in Florida for nearly three decades.
“Everyone — including me—is looking for deals right now,” says Mears, who left The Miami Herald in July after 30 years of writing and editing for newspapers. “And they’re out there. I’m just trying to make it easy for people to find them. Plus, South Florida has so many wonderful free activities – but they’re not always easy to find.”
Over the past several weeks, thrifty readers of South Florida’s “On the Cheap” blogs have learned about deals as diverse as discounted tickets to the Miami International Film Festival, free kids’ meals on Friday nights in Hollywood, free previews of Palm Beach Opera performances and “date night” deals to the Waterfront Playhouse in Key West, plus national food discounts and freebies. That’s in addition to dozens of opportunities to experience music, art, kids’ activities and attractions for free.
The South Florida “On the Cheap” blogs are part of a rapidly growing network of independently owned and operated “Cities on the Cheap” http://www.citiesonthecheap.com websites in the United States and Canada.
Owned mostly by women, the network of blogs grew out of a series of conversation in an online writers’ network. Each editor owns his or her own blog, and the entrepreneurial journalists are working in collaboration. Most, like Mears, had never created a web site before, but nearly all the writers built their own sites. The sites are supported by advertising.
The Cities on the Cheap network is celebrating its official launch Tuesday, March 10, with contests and giveaways on some sites. The South Florida sites will be asking their readers for tips on South Florida deals and will be giving away books that mention money by South Florida writers as diverse as Dave Barry, Frugal Duchess Sharon Harvey Rosenberg and Suze Orman, plus a few Webkinz.
In Florida, On the Cheap blogs are operating in Gainesville, Sarasota and Tampa Bay, with launches expected soon in Orlando and the Florida Panhandle. In addition, Disney on the Cheap focuses on deals to the Disney theme parks.
About Teresa Mears
Teresa Mears is a veteran South Florida journalist. In addition to working as an assistant features editor for The Miami Herald, she has worked for The Los Angeles Times, The St. Petersburg Times, The Gleaner in Henderson, Ky., and The Portland (Tenn.) Leader. As a freelance writer, she contributed to The Boston Globe, The New York Times, Miami Metro, WorldCity Business, Travel & Leisure and other publications. She now runs her own project management, editing and consulting business. She doesn’t clip coupons, but she does buy her clothes in thrift stores and is a devotee of the Publix “buy one, get one free” promotions.
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Here's how to buy my book:
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