Let’s start this week with Dr. Thomas J. Stanley’s $1 Million: Something or Nothing? If you’re not a frequent reader of financial books, you may not know that Dr. Stanley is the author of the Millionaire Next Door series and his latest installment, Stop Acting Rich, which continues to analyze the backgrounds of the rich and how they got that way. This post isn’t just a rhetorical question, the real answer is, of course, it depends.
Michele of Money Ning offers 10 Reasons to Have a Library Card. Sorry, I’m still a sucker for a good list, and I bet that once you get past the obvious (uh, borrow a book, anyone?) you get to some things that can really save you the bucks. Sorry, no spoiler here, go take a quick read there.
Once again, Kay at Don’t Mess With Taxes breaks the news on Tax Breaks Which are Extended into 2010. Among the extensions are the choice between state income tax or sales tax if you itemize (great for people who live in a no state tax state) and the “donate from your IA if you are 70-1/2 or older.” This helps those who are taking RMDs and make nice donations, but don’t itemize. Good news from Kay.
This week I offer the first round up mention to Deliver Away Debt. I’ve read too many question posted about how to pay down debt when one has no extra money, and I find it curious that the writer seeking advice will also reject the best advice we all have to offer about how to raise extra cash. Jeff, on the other hand, is a great example of a guy who takes action. Delivering pizza on the weekends to earn some extra money to pay offer his debts. We follow his adventures via Twitter, and his blog. This past week, Jeff posts about how to Build Relationships While Eliminating Debt. Jeff discusses balance in one’s life and how to stay engaged with others while still getting ahead in your finances. Even if you are debt-free, this makes for good reading if you want to be a good parent and spouse. I tip my hat to you, Jeff.
Redeeming Riches wrote about Why You’re Off Track for Your Retirement (And What to Do About It). A thought provoking piece that reminds us to stop, take a step back, and review where we are and what our goals are. We’re reminded that without a plan, there is no success.
Peter at Bible Money Matters helps to talk some of the consumerism out of the holiday season with 50 Frugal Gifts You Can Give This Christmas. This is a list I’ve bookmarked as it can be a great source of inspiration for any occasion, not just Christmas.
Joe! Thanks for the link in your round up! As always, much appreciated!!