Self-Sufficiency Can BE In Vogue

Upon reading this morning's article about a family of 20 not in debt and able to be self-sufficient, I truly believe that their fiancial tactical approach to frugality is one to note.  Family of 19 Debt Free article highlights some key points that many folks need to understand.  The importance of paying your bills, not incurring debt and even itemizing bills where sneaky charges must be caught.  Yes, it is wise to NOT assume that your bills are always correct upon receiving them.  Folks struggle with Math so I will doubly make sure that I question any bill that comes my way.

As a military family, you are able to shop at the Commissary and it's nice especially when the sales and case lot sales are put on.  Coupons are good for 6 months after the expiration date.  Also, the coupons are handed out on Saturdays as well as a coupon basket by the bathroom (you can give coupons and take coupons).  You do need to do a food and supply inventory and know your prices but in the end, using coupons and watching what you buy and use in your household will help the bottom line.  Cutting your Grocery Bill in Half is a great book resource as well.

Food is a number one budget blower and with food costs rising, it is even more imperative that folks cook and budget more.  emeals.com is a great tool to faciliate staying on a budget and yet having the menu planned along with recipes.  Keep in mind that you only pay for the dinner meals minus sales tax so it is important to watch your food budget as you supply food for your breakfast, lunch and snacks. 

Be Old-Fashioned & You May Find Out How Cool That Is

It's been awhile since I last blogged...guess life is happeniing in my household!!!!  We took a vacation to the beach and had a magnificent time.  Unfortunately, my husband's blackberry was Murphy in the car and he had to deal with work-related issues while on vacation.  There is a challenge in today's society for folks to truly be away, rest up and enjoy time off from work.  The technology today may be of great benefit to many, but I believe that there is a growing dysfunction in society where few put down the technology and actually talk, be there and be a normal human being with others. Children especially are seeking time and attention from their parents.  April Perry of The Power Of Moms writes a great article that many of my friends are liking called Your Children Want YOU!   Folks are hiding behind their blackberry, their texting, their e-mails or their curtains and are isolating themselves.  If you watch the movie Wally, it shows the funny way that folks get wrapped up in all that technology.  Could it really happen?

We drove down the interstate road and saw lots of DVDs playing in the car.  Yes, we pulled ours out later in the day, but after we made a point to play I Spy, Guess a Number between 1 & 100, Category: Vegetable, Mineral or Animal, and a few other family games.  We were laughing and sharing a special memory making moment without technology interfering with our old-fashioned fun.  We even tracked all the different license plates tags from across the country including Nova Scotia & Quebec making it a geography lesson for my kids.  At the restaurant, we played the game Left, Right & Center and even got GrandPa laughing.  Folks were envious of our fun, that is the ones who weren't distracted with technology. 

There are lots of technologies eager to eat up your time if you allow them to do so.

24/7 TV/Cable TV/Direct TV/Satelite
Internet for Social Networking sites as well as news feeds or online gaming
Texting
E-mailing
Watching a movie
Radio

It's so easy to have access because you just have to push a button.  The nice part is that you can push the OFF button.

Being in the military, it's challenging to connect with folks outside the network.  For one thing, folks don't get what your spouse does for a living.  Yes, they are in the military and they appreciate it but really and truly...theres's an unknown.  It's challenging to find common ground with folks.  Even within the military community, it's challenging to connect with others because of politics, background, living arrangements and (let's be honest) likeability. 

Another issue is relocating, moving, traveling and/or being in different places not knowing many folks.  It's challenging to connect.  It gets lonely even when the family PCSs together. 

It's easy to eat excessively.  Check out our high obesity rate as well as our rise in diabetes.  Rachel Ray's foundation Yum-O! is encouraging to counter this epic problem in our country.

It's easy to watch too much tv or surf the internet.  As one pastor challenged his sunday school class, he said go without the tv and internet for two weeks, and you will see a dramatic improvement in your sex life.  

It's easy to get into activities you would not dream of doing.  Some taboo topics and some unexpected.

It's easy to overdo because you are compensating for what's missing in your life.

Yes, here is where I must plug in that God is exactly what you need in your life especially if you are lonely.  Going to church or the base chapel is difficult at first but it is the best way to not only feel better about yourself, meet and socialize with other, but to seek the One who can  only give you the peace and understanding that you need.

Financially speaking, it's of great benefit to be old-fashioned and to find out how cool it really is.  You will see a big difference in your life.  I can't say that the technologies are bad or that you should not do them.  I am just saying that you need to keep things in balance and yes, old-fashioned values are coming back in vogue in more ways than what you may realize.  The next time you are questioning things....keep in mind that God is my refuge and strength (Psalms). 

By Stephanie Arredondo 2012 for Alfa Sugar

Happy Military Couples

Ever wonder what are some secrets to keep love going in your marriage?  I love this article recently posted The 9 Secrets of Happy Couples.  Now if only I can get my military spouse to help out with household chores, then I think that this is a great list.  All joking aside, military couples can benefit from these secrets.

Praying together as a couple especially before you begin your day is a great way to connect with your spouse.  If he is on deployment or there is a distance factor, try skyping or pick a particular time of the day where you both know that the other is praying for you and vice versa.

Doing household chores helps your love life.  Upon return from a long deployment, the military spouse needs to make a contribution to doing dishes, cooking a meal, taking the trash out, treating the other to something and even helping out with laundry.  By doing these domestic duties, you are able to reduce the amount of time it takes to do these chores and increase your time together.

Sometimes just sitting and being near one another is a great way to reconnect.  Communication is soooo important.  Allowing time to catch up and listening to the other is key.

There are other items to keep in mind but for now, happy military couples is something that many desire because as many Americans agree, the sacrifices that you and the military families make is a big deal to many U.S. citizens.  Happiness is priceless whereas fun is where you pay a price.....choosing happiness for your marriage is a financial decision in the long run!

(c) 2012  Copryrighted by Stephanie Arredondo

Elderly Targeted for Fraud

A recent article in the local newspaper heightened my understanding that as the Baby Boom generation enters their retirement years, it's becoming more evident of fraudulent activity.  First of all, shame on the person taking advantage of an elderly person who has lived their life and is now dependant upon people for care as well as health matters.  These thieves are crafty in their tactics of intimidating the elderly whereby faking a call from the Social Security office or IRS.  One family received phone calls from a nurse at the nursing home where a relative was under their care....needless to say, this person was fired and no doubt served some jail time. Whatever the reason for the contact, it is important to be vigilent.  For some elderly, they screen their calls through the answering machine.  For others, they demand a letter in writing.  For many, they may have e-mail but are not likely to use it much.  One elderly person's e-mail address was stolen and used fraudulently for moneymaking purposes.  Luckily the telecommunicaitons company addressed the situation before it got out of hand.  In this modern era of smartphones, electronic items and texting, it is important to be kind to the elderly, facilitate the details when it comes to financial matters, and to look out for their financial well-being as well as overall well-being.

Donating to American Veterans

Certain charities benefit from your cleaning out your house, and one of them is the American Veterans.  Through the AMVETS National Service Foundation, they operate thrift stores whereby funds raised help support veteran programs.  It's a worthy cause that benefits you as you clean your house out and supports our heros. 

Respect for our Military and their Families

Today while meeting another military wife for coffee, we were discussing our husbands, their service during deployments and all the challenges that a military wife endures.  A gentleman sitting next to us couldn't help but overhear our conversation.  Originally from Mississippi, he kindly thanked us for all we are doing in dealing with our husbands and our families.  He commented how 1 in 6 people serve in the military from the state of Mississippi.....not many in Manhattan nor New York can make that same claim.  The irony is how in touch certain folks are  from what's considered a poor state and how out of touch many are from a wealthy state. 

I appreciated this gentleman's insight.  So often, many endure hardships from family members serving in the military.  Whether you are from the country or the city, it's wise to respect those willing to sacrifice for your freedom. 

For my international readers, it's important to understand that even though we as a nation are divided, we have citizens willing to serve in our armed forces and do what is needed through hard work and toil. 

Stay at Home Moms ARE Worth It

This Yahoo! Finance article affirms How Much is a Homemaker Worth.  $96,261 per year according this article and yet I've reviewed other sources where stay at home moms are worth $120,000 plus.  For example, the article pays a yard man $30 to mow whereas many charge between $65 to 125 so it depends upon the cost of living in certain areas of town. 

RESPECT is as high as one might think for the individual being the stay at home mom.  I think that respect is returning to this less than prestigious profession.  The original thought that you can have it all isn't true for everyone.

Drawbacks to being a stay at home mom are:

• no paycheck
• financial dependance is necessary
• few sick days or vacation days are offered. 

One can speculate how this is the worst job to accept based on these drawbacks, and yet it is THE MOST IMPORTANT undertaking of any job in the world.  I highly respect anyone willing to give it all up and stay home to provide your husband the means to do his job so that you can create a wonderful home environment. 

Let's examine the job:

Cooking - With a 70% markup at local restaurants, this is the biggest area to save money and yet it can have positive health advantages.  Many women dislike cooking; however, there are many home delivery companies as well as prepared foods sold in grocery stores and commissaries to help the cooking challenged person. 

Cleaning - More like picking up prior to cleaning is the essential part of this job.  Your family's health mandates at least once a month cleaning.  Basic cleaning is cleaning bathrooms and kitchen, sweeping and mopping floors, dusting, wiping surfaces and taking trash out.

Laundry - Gathering all the clothes, sheets, towels and other washables and then washing them in the washing machine, dryer and then folding, sorting and putting clean clothes away.

Shopping - Buying provisions for the home is a frequent activity.  Considering the auto fuel involved with driving around town, it's important to take a list along with coupons to the store (sometimes several stores) in order to make purchase.  This takes more time than what folks realize because of huge square footage, crowds at certain times of the day and towing kids along.

Paying Bills - Paying bills such as household, medical, insurance and other expenses is important. 

Home & Yard Maintenance - It takes time to mow the yard or maintain a house, condo or townhome.  Certain basic maintenance is mandatory yet there is seasonal maintenance as well as remodeling or repainting.

Child Care - This is a super important part of the job because children under age five require close supervision.  Feeding, changing diapers or potty training, laundering clothes, picking up toys and other items are just a few of the job to dos.  Reading to your child/ren, playing music, taking them to the park, doing a craft project, or other important activities help children to develop their minds and prepare for education. 

As you can imagine, each aspect of the job when singled out is simple and easy to do.  The trick is to multitask and accomplish it all every day with no days off and hopefully no sickness.  The stay at home mom who can master managing it all and still look like the 1950s woman impeccably dressed with makeup on is unique (there are some that exist but they are in the minority!). 

Military Stay At Home Moms really are challenged with fulfilling all job requirements while the serviceman is deployed for a LONG time. 

This is a brief overview of some financial perspective so that when you mop that kitchen floor again and wonder why did I give up my high paying job to do scully maid work, you look at your family and realize it is all worth it in the end.

Copyrighted 2012 by Stephanie Arredondo aka Alfa Sugar

NOTE: For those moms who must work and raise children, I know that this article is limiting.  The advantage you have is you can have adult conversations during the day, make connections, and have time away from the children and home.  The stay at home mom is lucky to have an adult conversation, is rundown working day in and day out, and is eager to get away from the house just to get a break.  I believe that each family is unique and must function as the head of household feels it must.  Working two full-time jobs is never easy. 

MIL & Your Mighty Marriage

(Article NOT published on Wives of Faith web site page even though submission was made over 60 days ago so I am posting it here on my blog in hopes that it provides a nonmonetary financial perspective for wives and mother in laws (mil)).

MIL or mother in law jokes abound in ways we least expect.   The newly wed wife said to her husband when he returned from work: "I have great news for you, Honey. Pretty soon we're going to be three in this house instead of two."  The husband started glowing with happiness and kissing his wife said: "Oh darling, I'm the happiest man in the world."   But then she said: "I'm glad that you feel that way because tomorrow morning my mother moves in with us."

"Have you not read,"  said Jesus, "that he who made them in the beginning made them male and female, and said, For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh? So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." Mark 10:9.

Jesus addressed the importance of marriage between a man and a woman.  There is a third party involved with each marriage, but it’s not our MIL or somebody else.  It’s Christ himself.  Military marriages benefit from a distance factor when forming their family unit.  PCSing to different bases around the world forces the husband and wife to depend on one another as well as Christ.  Though lonely at times, this opportunity directly supports scripture and helps couples to submit to one another. 

A third of many marriages dissolve because of interference by parents or other family members unconsciously.  This is a staggering statistic that puzzles many; however, over 80% of the in-law complaint letters that Ann Landers receives deal with mother in law problems, specifically the husband’s mother.  Call it a clash of cultures or power plays but the fact remains that it is a challenge for many marital relationships to form their family unit.

The in law relationship can be a great blessing or a toxic relationship depending upon the two women.  Obviously, both have in common one thing – they love the man who is son to one and husband to the other.  Two is company and three’s a crowd can definitely challenge things.  What’s remarkable is when both enjoy the in law relationship as did Ruth and Naomi.  While not all mother in law relationships evolve this way, according to Terri Aptner’s What Do You Want From Me? , the issue at hand for MILs is vulnerability and the threat that this mother/son relationship is changing. 

Change is inevitable, and seeing your son off on a deployment is difficult for MILs.  Marriage can provide a blessing or another threat to the MIL.  PTSD is on the rise with husbands returning from the combat zone, and many MILs and/or family members feel the need to step in and do something, especially when it is a young marriage.  This is when tempers flare, words are spoken and unintentional pain is inflicted upon many. 

When a baby is born, it can be tricky because MILs want certain family traditions passed on.  Sometimes, the new mom experiences doubt and confusion as she gets critiqued by her mother in law.  The MIL sees an inexperienced mother making many mistakes and feels she needs to step in for the sake of her grandchild.  The husband may be deployed or on TDY orders thus adding concern and stress because he is not present.  Around the holidays is when stress levels increase. 

Do you have a MIL situation?  Is your marriage challenged as a result of a MIL or another family member?  What to do?  How do you maintain some form of sanity? 

 First, it is important to be in prayer about your circumstances.  You and your marriage matter.  Communicate with your husband, mother in law and other family relationships that your marriage is between you and your husband (not anyone else) and that you and your spouse will make your family unit’s decisions, albeit finances, estate planning, parenting etc. 

Next, it’s important to set certain priorities to where your spouse is at the top of the list.  Badmouthing your mother in law is not on the list.  Focusing on your husband and what is needed for your marriage is THE priority in addition to prayer. 

Finally, having an exchange of mutual respect with your mother in law is recommended.  You want what is best for the same person as well as for the children. 

Forgiveness is important especially when feelings have been hurt, and while no situation starts off great, perhaps with time, you and your MIL will improve your relationship in such a way that it will blossom and benefit so many around you. Perhaps it’s hard to smile at a person who has deeply hurt you.   While no relationship is ideal and setting aside the MIL jokes, the important point is to have faith that God is with you and your spouse as you walk this wonderful journey of marriage.   

by Stephanie Arredondo

Celebrate The Season One Nation Under God

Americans struggle this time of year with celebrating the holidays.  For some, it's a lonely time.  For some, it's an exciting time.  For others, it's a crazy busy time.  For others, it's a time when you dread it.  Whatever your struggle this time of year, it is wise to keep some perspective that money can't buy yet provides a return far greater than your investment portfolio.

Getting back in touch with your spiritual side is a nice start.  I listened this morning on the CBS show where three clerics respectively representing the Islam, Jewish and Christian religions spoke about The Deeper Meaning of the Holidays  All three commented on why Americans aren't as in touch with their spiritual side.  For one thing, many are busy and are trying to buy things to satisfy needs.  All agreed that Americans aren't as spiritual as in past times. 

Relationships take time, and you need to invest in them.  It's intimidating for many who must use a credit card to satisfy certain needs.  You cannot buy love.  Though love is unseen, not tangible and not readily available, it is experienced by many so we know it exists.  Perhaps past hurts prevent you from opening yourself back up and being vulnerable to receiving and/or giving love.  If that is the case, then by all means take your time but do not keep the wall up preventing the WHAT IF love really happens this time.  It's a risk well worth taking.

Forgiveness is key.  Impossible to forgive...I believe not....It takes courage and swallowing your pride to forgive.  Though many see this as weakness, it is greater strength than any football player or Olympic champion can ever display.  God forgives us, and perhaps He is desiring us to forgive Him.  We can learn to forgive by forgiving others. 

We are one nation under God.  Isn't it neat that all can celebrate this time of year?

Fisher House aids many with an upcoming project in Tennessee

The Tennessee Fisher House is working hard to raise donations and is pending construction in Murfreesboro TN.  The Fisher House is a nonprofit organization providing a home away from home for many military getting medical treatment.  96% of all donations directly benefit military families. 

Trick or Treat! Let's not miss a beat!

'Tis the season for lots of things....Fall Harvest Parties, Halloween, Haunted Houses or Weirdness....the main thing is to be safe and have a good time at the festivities. 

Our local police department sends out an advisory for having a safe time, and I can't help but share some tips. 

• Feast on some healthy food prior to trick or treating.  It will keep everyone's energy level up as you make the rounds.  Drink water and perhaps carry a small water bottle.
• Take a picture of your child/ren in their costume.  It's a bonus for their scrapbook AND an immediate photo in case you have an emergency.
• All costumes should be comfortable and made of flame-resistant fabric.  Wearing comfortable walking shoes and dressing in layers for the cool evening is a plus.   Props are for play ONLY.
• Walking with a buddy and/or a group on well-lit streets is important because you are walking in the dark.  Cars driving through neighborhoods cannot react as fast as during the daytime so please use caution when out in the road.  Have a flashlight or other cool lights on your body.  Most pedestrian injuries occur on Halloween night.
• Have cell phone for immediate communication on the adult walking the children through the neighborhood.  If you can, it is wise to register your cell phone with a SMART911 registry. 
• Older children should have instructions on which route is acceptable and a time to be back at the house or meeting place. 
• Homes with outside lights ON and some festive decor are ones to knock on.  Do NOT accept candy from someone's car nor enter a home to get candy.
• Check the trick or treat bag for suspicious looking items. While everyone is handing out candy for fun, there are few who will alter the candy so just be cautious. It helps to know the source of the candy albeit either a neighbor or friend. 

If your loved one is deployed this season, don't let his deployment spoil you having fun.  Besides your stories will enhance his day overseas.  Do attend a Fall Harvest Party and/or throw one with other military spouses.  Take lots of pictures.  There is something magical about creating your costume and then telling a story.  Getting into the fun of the season can take the distance apart factor out of one day of the deployment. 

Carve a pumpkin, create a costume, buy your favorite candy, put up some decorations, and get ready for some fun mixing and mingling with neighbors and the community!  Be safe and that's a great financial perspective to keep in mind.  So don't miss a beat and have a great time trick or treating!

Layaway, A Popular Option as eLayaway Enters Household Names

Military families as well as federal employees have a new opportunity this season to pay cash (not debt) for Christmas.

eLayaway is an online layaway financial services company that has partnered with Centralized Strategic Placement (CSP) to make this possible.  CSP's Exchange Shopping Program (CSPEX) include active and retired U.S. military and other Federal employees authorized to shop at AAFES (Army & Air Force Exchange Services) and other U.S. Department of Defense online stores. Additionally, eLayaway will be offered to CSP's retailers, distributors and manufacturers.  (See Article)

Walmart is joining other retailers in offering layaway. 

A surgence in traffic is increasing because of the economy when it comes to layaway.  Perhaps more people are being smarter about their spending behavior or have lost much and are financially strapped to make ends meet this season.  Whatever the case, it is a great financial alternative to the credit card.
As those who have taken Dave Ramsey's Military FPU will say, it is best to stay out of debt, and this online elayaway option fits the bill for those seeking creative financial ways to accomplish financial budget goals.

eLayaway is a publicly traded company. It's FREE to join.  A few of their affiliates include the Apple Store where you can make payments on a new Ipad2 for as low as $72.50 per month.  Others include Best Buy, Joanns (for those crafty people!), Bass Pro Shops, The Disney Store, and many more. 

A neat idea is to pay from $2.19 to $9.91 a month for a gift card good for retailers such as Walmart, Target, Talbot's, Best Buy, Marriott, Budget or even Applebee's.  Gift cards are a popular present to give, and by making montly payments, it doesn't blow your budget. 

Giving the gift becomes two times better since you are giving you and your family the gift of staying debt free while affording a nice gift.  Of course, giving the gift of your time and yourself is priceless.

Military Discount in Orlando, FL

Nickelodeon Suites Resort

Nickelodeon Suites Resort is proud to welcome active and retired U.S. military travelers and their families with some military discounts in Orlando, Florida, including reduced room rates and perks through December 15, 2011.  There is also a 20% discount off of a Family Suite through December 23, 2011. 

According to the company, you can make the most of your family time with rewarding military specials for Orlando’s most active family resort!  Rates start at $99 so be sure to research your final prices before booking.  They also offer 10% off food and beverages, 4-D Experience films and cabana rentals.  This is Military Appreciation, and isn't it a nice opportunity?  To book your stay and for more information visit www.nickhotel.com/military or call 877-NICK-111 and ask for the Military Family Package.

Note:  Alfa Sugar is not endorsing this special military discount, just sharing information. 

Military Retirement Concerns From New Legislation TALK

According to the Air Force Times article written by Andrew Tilghman and his staff, the plan to overhaul the current retirement setup is outraging many military folks. 

The proposal unveiled by the Defense Business Board, a Pentagon advisory group, aims to save more than $300 billion over 10 years by transforming the traditional 20-year pension into a corporate-style 401(k) savings account. Under that plan, the military would contribute cash to individual troops’ accounts, possibly about 16 percent of basic pay per year.

The plan would dramatically shift money from the roughly 19 percent of the force that serves 20 years or more to earn an immediate lifetime pension and give much of it to the 81 percent of mostly enlisted troops who leave after four, six or eight years with no retirement benefits. Critics said the plan would devastate retention and jeopardize the quality of the nation’s all-volunteer force.

If the above holds true, then many currently in the military will no doubt be disappointed and frustrated about the amount of time given and not the optimal return monetarily. 

Regardless of what occurs, many military people as well as their spouses and family members need to learn more about finances and how to better manage their financial affairs.  It is obvious that the government is not capable of properly managing the military member's best financial interest when it comes to retirement.

Politics will always present new bills, new legislation, and new changes to many things that will affect the military member.  No one likes change especially when it pertains to finances.  What is important to note is to get financial advice, to read a book on the topic and to manage your financial affairs.  Retirement and saving up for it matters more so today than in years past. 

Shop Back to School & Get Tax-Free Savings

It's back to school time.  Summer is wrapping up yet again.  Many of my dear military friends have PCSed, moved, relocated or taken a new job.  Change is inevitable.  Some change is good.  Some change is difficult to accept.  Some change is not the way I had hoped.

This weekend is tax-free weekend in Tennessee.  Perhaps other states and areas offer this opportunity for folks buying back to school items to save.  Buyer beware on certain items as some are part of the tax free category and some are not.  Each state is different so be sure to check with your local state government. 

Ironically, many retail stores are desperate for your business and are offering to pay state sales tax on any item you purchase. 

Keep in mind that some items made in another country may not be complying with federal regulations.  For example, Crayola is the only product that I purchase when it comes to crayons, sidewalk chalk, markers or other items that my children will use.  It is important to not sacrifice price for your child's well-being.  Yes, certain crayons or sidewalk chalk contain harmful chemicals and several children are known to have develop a severe allergic reaction that is unexplained and leaves the parents skeptical about what to do.

There are several children's consignment sales offering back to school items for Fall/Winter.  This is a great way to make affordable purchases that are tax-free.  Your local Goodwill store, Salvation Army, or other Thrift stores may also offer tax-free savings. 

For us military folks, it's great to enjoy tax-free purchases on certain items while still having to pay a commissary fee or other.  I am certain that there are deals at your local AAFES stores so double-check your prices and see if Walmart or others will match the price. 

Regarding online tax free savings, it depends.  I don't know of any at this time of publication.  On-line buying is convenient and great.  Beware of shipping costs because that is what will up your cost in the purchase.  Some vendors are offering free shipping or site to store free delivery.  I opt for that one over paying shipping costs any day.

International military families may be challenged with certain back to school supplies.  While I am unfamiliar with some items, it is good to go to such sites as Wives of Faith Facebook page or other military related web site pages and even blogs for more specifics. 

Best of luck as you and your family go back to school this fall!  Whether is homeschooling, local public school or base school, and/or a private school, I wish you great success.  Study hard and make people in your country proud!  It's an international world now when it comes to education.

COLA - Military Retirement Concerns

COLA or cost of living adjustments is a measure that affects military retirees.  COLA change could affect retiree benefits article by Rick Maze presents interesting financial perspective on what's evolving.  Keep in mind that Congress has to approve the increase legislatively each year.  There's been a lot of talk about this issue online.  COLA explained shows the current COLA track and how we have seen a strong inflation uptick since March 2011.  Some military retirees appreciate getting something.  Others are critical of Congressional pay/benefits.  Some others dislike lawmakers and the usual disappointment that comes from these issues being handled by government.  Whatever the case, it's important to understand what is in store for retirees.

Interestingly, one blogger posted the following information about pay/benefits for Congress people.
Members of the House(speaker gets $223,500), Senate(except for majority and minority ldrs who get $193,400) and VP all get the same salary. $174,000/yr. Members of Congress receive retirement and health benefits under the same plans available to other federal employees. They become vested after five years of full participation. Members elected since 1984 are covered by the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS). Those elected prior to 1984 were covered by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). In 1984 all members were given the option of remaining with CSRS or switching to FERS. As it is for all other federal employees, congressional retirement is funded through taxes and the participants' contributions. Members of Congress under FERS contribute 1.3 percent of their salary into the FERS retirement plan and pay 6.2 percent of their salary in Social Security taxes. Members of Congress are not eligible for a pension until they reach the age of 50, but only if they've completed 20 years of service. Members are eligible at any age after completing 25 years of service or after they reach the age of 62. Please also note that Members of Congress have to serve at least 5 years to even receive a pension. The amount of a congressperson's pension depends on the years of service and the average of the highest 3 years of his or her salary. By law, the starting amount of a Member's retirement annuity may not exceed 80% of his or her final salary.  This blogger provided a lot of financial perspective here.  Other bloggers echo the concern that Congress people earn six-figure incomes and don't take a paycut during a serious financial time while military personnel don't get compensated in as fair of a manner. 

I respect people who serve in public office to a certain degree.  I respect fellow military personnel and their families as they relocate their lives to different parts of the world, endure financial hardships, make a sacrifice for the good of their country and even will make the ultimate sacrifice.  Both people serve this nation in ways that we need of their service.  John Adams was a great statesman, and his marriage is one that I am in awe of.  Historically, it was a high calling and an honor for someone to serve in public office.  Today, it is discouraged by many.  Homeschooled children tend to seek ways to influence politics more so than traditionally schooled children today.  I present these facts as perspective as there is great history and much to learn from those who came before us.    Perhaps we are returning to some tried and true methods from our American heritage. 

With retirement drawing near for many or retirement to occur in 30 years, it is important to understand how your military retirement will benefit you.  For many on fixed income, it is wise to revisit your budget.  While costs continue to rise, many have tight budgets that limit more so than before what one is able to afford and/or go and do.  Whatever the case may be, it is wise to work with a financial advisor, friend or someone who is good at number crunching.   I constantly revisit our budget each month, and in looking back on past budgets from years past, it amazes me at how we make it happen regardless of our limited income.  Happiness comes from the things in life that money can't buy.  It's so nice to afford things and not worry about making ends meet.  Yet, sometimes, it's the little things in life that remind us of what it is that we need to do in our life.

American Families Reunite this Fourth of July

Is your American family eating meals together?  What types of conversations are you having?  Is it fun or unpleasant?  Do both parents work?  What kind of attention are children getting these days?

These questions among many others present a rude awakening to some families that they are not a united team.  Some may blame the busy schedules such as work or sports.  I know of many families stressed to the point of yelling at their children or driving themselves nuts just trying to make it on time to a sports event for their child.  One dance recital was scheduled on a Sunday morning which is unbelievable to me since the majority of patrons denounced this and some refused to participate in their child's dance recital (that's just WRONG in my mom book). 

Divorce rates are high and could be higher were it not for high attendance at marriage classes and Sunday School.  The divorce attorneys are eager for more business as the same sex marriage act passed in New York (unbelievable since few remain committed to the same partner for very long...a research fact that I am not making up). 

Fathers need to be around and are important.  Over 70% of black babies are born to single mothers (as many are incarcerated or are in gangs soon to be incarcerated) [Bringing up Boys by Dr. Dobson].  Strong male leadership is low, and men lack etiquette.  More women earn degrees and fill up those colleges and universities. Even the Washington Times article on Guys got it Made?  Think Again is garnering some attention here.  Where is the man in America?  It takes two to make a family function.  It takes a man to step up and be the leader of the family. 

Mothers need to cool it and be.  Women are a wonderful breed and adapt well to multitasking.  Frustration levels are high due to working, weight gain, stress, depression, and yes, finances.  For some, men are not around and the working mom struggles to do it all.  I read Mary Kay's book You Can Have It All and that is for the overachiever.  Most of us are just trying to do the basics.  No mom can have it all and expect her family to stay in tact unless she is my hero of a superstar.  (There are some out there).

Problems such as drugs, addictions (ex. the computer, the blackberry, overcommitment, drugs, alcohol, sex, or other), and other major problems lead to more negatives than positives.  Please consult your church or a professional.  While I write this online, you have a choice to make things better.  Help may not be readily available but you can start simply by taking things one minute at a time.  Not easy but it will get better with patience and believing in your decision to do better. 

With more families struggling to be these days, it is important that American Families REUNITE and do things together. 

• Stop the insane running around to playdates. 
• Stop checking your blackberry every two minutes...it can wait. 
• Stop and think about your lifestyle choices.

For many, it took 9/11 to understand the wake-up call and adjust real quick to what was happening within their family unit.  It's okay to make less money and have MORE time with your family.  It's even better when you can play a family game and not have the phone interupt.  Focus on the Family has some great literature as well.  The financial perspective presented here is that no amount of money can buy what a blessing your family is. 

By spending time with your family, you can enjoy no costly divorce bills, no excessive spending to make up for the pain you caused yor kids or no nightmare fighting with people you gave your heart to.  Even more important is rebuilding the American family to redo what is evolving in our country....the breakdown of the family. 

This holiday weekend, I wish everyone a joyous celebration and encourage you to reunite your American family.  Nothing fancy but a phone call and say hey let's get together because we can!  I challenge you American Families to Reunite!  God bless you all.