The holidays are a time for festivities, for looking back at the past year and looking forward to the new year in a relaxed, joyous atmosphere. And if you’re like me most years, you wonder what planet this is on, and who these aliens are who celebrate like this, because it sure as heck isn’t … Read more
Gift cards work as gifts. But what if you receive gift cards that you know you won’t use, or stick one in a drawer and find it months or years later? I happen to think that gift cards are a decent choice for Christmastime giving. They’re convenient and flexible. A well-chosen gift card can show … Read more
The first step toward great gift ideas is knowing your audience … Having trouble coming up with gift ideas? I know I do. Maybe you’ve panicked and hit the Christmas section at the front of Walmart for the majority of your gifts on December 23rd or 24th. (Not that I know this from experience or … Read more
Independence Day is upon us. No need to spend a ton of money enjoying it … This past weekend I got a belated Father’s Day gift and saw Independence Day: Resurgence, so I got into a Fourth of July mood a bit early. Independence Day: Halfway there In addition to its significance in American history, … Read more
While some people think that it’s crass to give gift cards or cash as presents, I’m just fine with it. A gift card can show thought just as much as any other gift, especially if you know what the person likes and can give a gift card to a store that they like. And if … Read more
Happy Veterans Day! I thank all of the men and women who serve, or who have served, in the United States Armed Forces — especially our veterans. I deeply appreciate your service to our country. Jeff Rose served in the Army National Guard, and is an Iraq combat veteran. He’s now a Certified Financial Plannerâ„¢ … Read more
Retailers are. A Facebook friend snapped a picture from his local Walmart. The sign read “Days Until Christmas: 47.” When I was young, I made an advent chain out of red and green construction paper. I hung it on one of the lights in my room, and tore off one link of the chain each … Read more
Wow. Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. Kinda sneaks up on you. Right, guys? You have exactly one day to avoid succumbing to the capitalists. I received an e-mail today with the post’s title as the subject line. It’s a thoughtful question. My wife and I have it pretty easy as far as Valentine’s Day expenses go. … Read more