2009 – A Year In Thanks

About this time a year ago my wife and I talked about how good 2008 had been to our household.  It was a fun moment of connection, and reflection, and celebration, and optimism.  In a demonstration of faith we agreed that 2009 would be an even better year for us.  And so it has been. Of course 2009, for our house, began with tremendous questions in the air.  Walking away from a long term employer...

Default Settings

I recently attended a benefits presentation hosted by my employer.  It seems that we are changing HR/payroll outsourcers and as part of the transition we were engaging the annual selections process earlier than is typical.  We are also using this transition as a convenient time to alter our overall benefits package. In fairness, I still consider myself new, and I’m pleased with the package but...

The Virtue of Toil

  “Business or toil is merely utilitarian. It is necessary, but does not enrich or ennoble a human life.” -Aristotle A friend recently sent me this quote and it sparked an interesting email exchange as we each set ideological camps on varying sides of the discussion. My good friend Greg espouses the quote as motivation to seek balance and purpose outside of work.  In that way, he treats...

Plant Your Financial Tree

  According to an ancient Chinese Proverb, “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago.  The second best time is now.” I find that to be a compelling message.  And one that lends itself to the world of personal finance.  One only need imagine the line “the best time to pay-off debt, or start saving for retirement…” to identify the fit. Several months ago, I was...

Limited Time Offer

If current events have taught us anything over the recent weeks, it is that tomorrow is promised to no one.  No matter the vehicle – cancer, heart attack, old age, drugs, or acts of violence – we all exit stage left at some point. Sure, it is sad and tragic and too soon but it is also inevitable and unavoidable. For those reasons it is imperative that we take steps to prepare ourselves,...

I Once Met a Man in a Sauna

Hmm, with a title like that, I imagine this article could go in a number of different directions.  Never fear, this is a family friendly site and, well, I’m happily married, thank you. But the meeting did take place in a sauna and purely coincidently so. For the sake of context, you may recall that my wife and I recently took a trip to Florida for a long weekend.  Specifically, we were in...

Roth IRA – 2008 Contributions

Have you fully funded your 2008 Roth IRA contributions?  Yes, you read that correctly, 2008 contributions. Tax law allows you until April 15, 2009 to complete your 2008 contributions – which for an individual is limited to $5,000 for those making under $101,000 and $10,000 for couples making under $159,000. If you’re sitting on an Emergency Fund – and not planning to tap these funds...