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. 

Fraud Alert called PHISHING

Article below  published on Wives of Faith web site page

The latest phishing e-mails are coming from Anderson at almedicgroup.com.  Please see interesting link regarding a false Amazon.com claim. 

Phishing occurs – so how do we deal with it?

By Stephanie Arredondo, Board Treasurer

Imagine an insurance agent’s phone call to you pertaining to an online insurance inquiry that you nor your spouse never made. It’s happening more and more with the ease of access to basic information. This is the beginning stage of identity theft and is called phishing.

If you read in Ephesians 6:10-18 about The Armor of God, it’s impossible to not realize the spiritual warfare we endure when it comes to marriage and money.

The enemy loves to work through things and people. In our modern era of being a military wife, we deal with handling the household finances especially when our spouse deploys. We work on budgets. We shop for groceries and clothes. We save for our retirement. We aspire to send our children to college. We pay for our basic needs all while our husband is serving our country. Then, a phone call changes your world with the realization that your identity or your spouse’s identity has been stolen. You are lost about what to do. In the mail is a past due notice bill for an account that you and your spouse never opened. This can open up a whole new experience for the service member.
Identity theft is much more prevalent than in years past. Phishing is easily done with minimal information.

For military members, the Federal Trade Commission has dedicated a section of its web site page to protect active duty service members, their spouses and family: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/idtheft/idt02.shtm
Military One Source offers extensive financial material online, but it is best to call them for an appointment with a financial counselor at 1-800-342-9647. http://www.militaryonesource.com/MOS/FindInformation/Category/MilitaryOneSourceFinancialServices.aspx
Here you will find valuable information about how to proceed.


Below are some pointers for military marriages to consider when it comes to your and your spouse’s finances.

• Do check both of your credit reports. This is easily done through the three credit reporting agencies (and yes, I would check all three as it is free). If there are any false statements on your report, you and/or your spouse must address these immediately by submitting it in writing and sending it certified/return receipt. File an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission as well as with other relevant authorities.
• Pray about this situation so that you and your spouse may overcome its trials. For some, identity theft can hinder your future financial plans in ways you never anticipated. For some whose stolen identity is so severe, it’s taken five years, $15,000+ in legal fees and no resolution to this warfare. It is during this financial time of hardship that the power of prayer is one of the last weapons of armor that can aid you both in your resolution of this situation.
• To protect your spouse and yourself, it is wise to not disclose anyone’s social security card, military id, nor any financial accounts or credit card information unless it is to a known and reputable source.
• All passwords and personal information should be protected.
• Do not answer any online solicitations via e-mail nor provide personal information to these pop-up ads.
• All mail should be collected the day it is delivered or have your mail stopped by filling out a yellow form at the US Postal service.
• There is a way to post an active duty alert on your spouse’s credit report, and it is good for up to one year. This is important to do when your spouse is on deployment. The credit card companies like USAA do monitor unusual activity for your credit card, so if you travel to another part of the country or internationally, it is important to check with them about your foreseen financial spending with that credit card.
• Shred all unwanted credit card solicitations or anything with your names so that this will prevent dumpster diving.
• Finally, when you are out in public, please watch your wallet, passport, and other identification so that it is not stolen the old-fashioned way.

As in Proverbs 31:27, “She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness” gives us a call to take up our armor and allow God to flow through us so that we may defend ourselves from financial challenges such as phishing that all marriages want to avoid.

2012 May Be a Financially Great Year

2012 may be a financially great year, that is IF you are willing to do something about it. 

It's important to keep in mind that things just don't happen. You have to take action and make things happen.  So why does this bit of perspective help me out financially?

In the wonderful world of finance where everyone must do basic math on up to advanced math albeit with your income, investments or other means of support, there is action happening.  Your spending behavior is directly reflected in your wallet even if it is buying food or fuel or other.  By not paying attention to your budget or how you spend your money, you are taking action. 

Perhaps you are neglecting your finances.  It's easy to do because many folks dislike the accountability factor involved with budgeting, reconciling your accounts and making financial decisions.  Sometimes financial hardship resurfaces hard times from your past and can cause you to turn the other way  or can cause you to get intense when it comes to your money.

Perhaps you are a good steward of your money, track it and live within your means.  This routine action of managing your finances deserves a pat on the back AND a time to reassess your financial goals.  Are you interested in a return on your funds?  Are you going to take a risk and step out of your circle of comfort?  Are you willing to do more work for more financial gain or are you determining your retirement options?

Perhaps you are in between where you earn income and yet just can figure out why the money was there and is now gone.  This constant merrygoround gets old, discouraging and lackluster.  This is when taking a personal finance class or something related to the topic will help jumpstart you back into action.

Perhaps you have been in recovery.  For many veterans and military personnel coming back from the combat zone, they are faced with medical costs that wipe out whatever savings and/or income that they have.  The financial hardship on the families is difficult.  For some the physical disabilities create challenges including finding a job, keeping a job, and dealing with certain limitations.  For many, they are dealing with PTSD or post traumatic stress disorder.  It's a major issue that few talk about nor the negative effects it has on many military families.  Sweeping it under the carpet is difficult when a military member dealing with PTSD  has a hard time getting out of bed to go to work or to even funtion in American society. 

I write that 2012 may be a financially great year because it can be if you take action.  One problem is the word may, and I specifically use this word to make a point.  Many want to live up to doing a good job and yet they (especially the men) feel that what they do is not good enough.   Bosses and/or supervisors provide negative feedback, expect more than what is realistic and pass judgement on subordinates that beats them down.  Few workers underestimate their ability to do a good job yet most question their superior when it comes to job performance and evaluation.  Yet employment provides a financial means to support the family so many workers just grin and bear it.

Today is the day to take action even if it is a baby step in your financial affairs.  Perhaps you organize your bank accounts into a notebook and your bills into another notebook.  Perhaps you learn about a new financial software via your financial institution's web site page or Internet or package.  Perhaps you pick up a book from the library to read.  Perhaps you cut up your credit card and start paying it off.  Perhaps you open a new account to help jumpstart your financial future with just $20 a month. 

Little steps of action will enhance your financial situation.  Balancing your life and keeping hope abreast will help you navigate through this tricky time.  Perhaps reducing or cutting back in certain areas is a necessary action to help your family go forward.  For example, buying a frozen pizza versus ordering a pizza for delivery is a small step to save some outflow.  Now, if you are on TDY orders and/or PCSing and don't have access to a kitchen, it is wise to eat healthy, drink lots of water instead of sodas or alcohol and make practical choices.  Ask for the military discount when possible and seek restaurants who do give it so that you can cut back on this eat out expense.  Also, during lonely times it is easy to spend money to compensate for not having someone around.  This is when it is very important to do a low cost activity such as a craft, sign up for a class, exercise, attend a church social function or go to the local library for free events (sometimes they are posted on their bulletin boards more so than on the web).

Just taking action to do something will help you come alive with life, venture out, learn something new and gain a whole new perspective on life.  It is so much better than watching tv, playing a video game or anything else via your couch.  Act and see what great possibilities lie ahead. 

   

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?

Holiday Season Tips

Frantic about the end of the year?  You are not alone.  Many are.  In addition to all the holiday season busyness, Americans are dealing with an economy that is dismal regarding employment.  For many, Christmas will not be as great as in years past. 

1.  Check your end of the year financials.  The old expression of getting your house in order is recommended. 
2. Budget for holiday gift giving and go lean!  Everyone understands that people aren't doing as much as in years past.
3. Spend less on your children and spend more time with them. 
4.  Travel with a purpose, meaning budget your auto fuel.  Try to merge two or more trips to the store into one.  Try to carpool or get a ride.  Walking, riding a bike or even taking an alternative means of transportation though full of hassles can free up cash elsewhere.  I know of a retired couple who sold their second car and share one vehicle. 
5.  Clothing goes on sale this time of year so be on the lookout for nice gift ideas or a new article of clothing for yourself. 
6.  Attend church especially the Christmas events.  They bring out a cheerful bit of our soul.  Plus they are free and some offer free child care depending upon the event.
7.  Gift cards are all over the place and make for easy gifts (or do they?).  If you are handing the recipient a gift, it is best to give cash.  Gift cards now come with a $3.95 activitation fee in addition to the amount on the card.
8.  Impulse spending occurs so quick as stores and salespeople put the push on you to spend spend spend.  Be wise.  Watch your wallet. 
9.  Technology is allowing thiefs to get ahold of your credit card.  Check your free credit score as well as your credit card and debit card.
10.  Shop during low volume of people times.  Weekends, after work and school holidays are when traffic will be high.  Plan a day off.  Better yet...shop online and plan to be at home when the UPS man delivers your package.

Learn a Foreign Language!

As a foreign language major and having traveled internationally, I am an advocate for people to learn a language other than their own native one.  The benefits are tremendous yet many Americans don't understand why. 

In the USA, there has been an increase in language usage other than the English language in everyday exchanges.  For example, we have seen an increase in the Hispanic/Latino culture.  Many lawn maintenance crew and other blue collar workers speak Spanish. 

French is a fun language, and I attribute my learning it to Julia Child's tv show.  My dream was to go to France and go to cooking school.  Signing up for French was a thrill...then came studying and mastering it.   It was a struggle to learn the language, and unless you are immersed in it, it is no wonder Americans have a difficult time learning another language.  I studied hard and persevered.  Studying abroad helped sharpen my French speaking skills.  It was neat to learn about the culture, the history, and the people. 

As a military wife, I haven't had the opportunity to PCS internationally with my husband.  He's traveled extensively and admits he wished he knew another language.  For most military wives, it behooves you to learn another language.  Our navy friends loved being stationed in Spain and gained an understanding of the Spanish language.  Now back in the states, they are enjoying this ability to speak with the new wave of Spanish speaking people.  A former boss studied Russian and served in the military.  He rarely speaks it but gained an understanding of the language and culture that he enjoys to this day.  One enlisted man who spoke arabic helped my husband purchase a nice gift while overseas.  Being in the military is fun because you gain exposure to other languages and cultures.

Today's world is more international where you are able to interact with internationals easier through less costly means of communication.  By understanding other languages, you understand other cultures and other people of this world.  Who knows, perhaps one day we will all converse in similar dialogues and get along better...but until then, it's a neat time to study and learn a foreign language.

Digital Donations This Red Kettle Season

For an institution founded in 1852 to start adopting digital means of accepting donations versus the traditional coins and dollars, it's going to get a great time of year for nonprofits such as The Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign.  Great organization that does way more than you would think even in this modern era!  If market research confirms that people spend more at fast food places when using a credit card, perhaps this will up donations to charity this holiday season. 

Fewer shoppers carry cash on them.  It is important to be protective of your credit/debit cards this holiday season. 

Learn about Democracy and the legal system via iCivics

http://www.icivics.org/
Former Supreme Justice Sandra Day O'Connor is the Chairman of this nonprofit group promoting education about civics so that future generations can appreciate our democracy.  In an interview about her nonprofit project, she stated that this startup project came out of a need she saw for educating children in America about our judicial system.  There is a handy teacher section as well. 

Handy Budgeting section as well for future public service!

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!

Job Creation

The government seeks to pass a bill that will create 1.9 million jobs when the unemployment number exceeds 14 million.  At what cost is this to the taxpayer?  Will this form of legislation help or hinder capitalism? 

The best way to create jobs is for government to not intervene and for the free markets to solve the problem.  Today, we have more followers than leaders.  Taking a risk is scary.  It is easier to rely on someone else to supply a job or money so folks don't have to develop character and work too hard.  No wonder folks in other countries are winning because people in this country can't fend for themselves.  Socialism doesn't create jobs.  Governments do not create jobs.  Capitalism does!

America needs less government intervention and more people willing to work.  Less drugs and more accountability.  Less wimpy and more hefty!

The film Courageous is perhaps a film overdue for men in this country to watch.  Perhaps it will help many understand the importance of doing what is right especially for your family, community and ultimately your country.

Military Care Packages that CAN make a difference

It can be a small or big gesture....whatever the case may be, any U.S. citizen that can reach out and show that they appreciate the sacrifice and willingness for a military member to do what they do is outstanding.  While there are many opportunities to send military care packages, many folks still ask "What can we do?" or "How can we send a military care package?".

Here is some current information below.  While this may change over time, the thought being conveyed is always welcomed.  For example, I sent a card to a wounded soldier and he wrote me a thank you note.  Just that small gesture allowed him an opportunity to see what a difference he made in someone's life even though he doesn't know me.  If everyone did it, then those small gestures of appreciation would go unnoticed, but given today's world, it is monumental when there is that wonderful outreach. 

Any Soldier

Operation Worship

Soldier's Angel Facebook

USO

Troop Care Package (prebundled service)

Jubilee Celebration on the News of Bin Laden's Death; What This Means for Our Financial Future

It's all over the news about the death of Osama Bin Laden.  Many Americans will remember where they were the day that news broke about US Special Forces taking out Osama Bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attack on the United States of America 10 years ago.  Crowds have gathered at many landmark locations such as Ground Zero, The White House and other public venues.  Many are jubilee about this news.  The War on Terrorism succeeded at a near impossible mission.

What does this mean from a financial perspective?

Our US dollar may see a quick uptick in today's markets; however, it is expected to be another day in the market.  See Stock Futures Gain article and Asian Stocks Rise as US Earnings Gain artcle.  US Corporations will continue to prevail amidst current economic, political and weather conditions.  Fundamentals are being tested, and what is interesting if you are a keen business follower is how certain businesses prevail under the various conditions that they must operate.  Today is no different from previous days as Americans go to work.

Concern is mounting about a retaliation from the jihad.  Talk is about suicide bombers and other.  If Osama Bin Laden has been made a martyr, then the craziness of murder will pick up for reasons that is detrimental to human life.  Hamas condemns killing article.  Question for many is when will this War on Terrorism end (especially on US taxpayer wallets not to mention those of us in the military who watch loved ones serve)?  For business travelers especially those Americans traveling internationally, it is imperative that you be careful and be safe for many Americans could be targets for future retaliation.  It is wise to research insurance and put a revised policy in place.  Also, if you can, it is important to meet with a financial planner to determine a good financial future for your family as well as an attorney to revisit legal documents.  Having peace of mind that this arduous task is done will bode well for future financial security.

Day of Financial Reckoning article comments about several points which I disagree.  The US military should not be scaled back especially in Afghanistan just to cutback on expenses pertaining to the budget.  Military operations are carefully scrutinized by the higher ups, and I think that we all pray in America that the elected politicians will do what is right (not what is politically deemed a right or left direction).  Cheers to our US Military and Special Forces on a mission well-done!

In the wake of this celebration, it is important to keep financial perspective as we embark on a new chapter in the War on Terrorism. 

Sharia in America

It is wise to be educated about where the American taxpayer's dollars are being directed.  It is important for our military families to understand what is sharia and why is this relevant to financial matters. 

There are good people in this country and in our military, all who are free to practice their religion.  I've met few muslims who have been nice, hardworking US citizens.  I've met people of other religions, some good and some not good.  All have coexisted well since this nation was founded.  Regardless of the political viewpoint presented, it is important to understand finances in America, how it affects the taxpayer, and the hope of improving our financial markets as well as paying off the national debt in due time.  For those seeking to hinder growth in America, it will be a surprise.  History reinforces the mindset of the American citizen and a culture that thrives in ways least expected. 

Below are some articles to reference.  What's important is to blend financial matters with current laws so that justice and preservation of government continues to prosper this country. 

American Family Matters reviews how AIG defies US taxpayers.

The AIG-Sharia connection reviews legal aspects on Culture.

Glenn Beck produced a video about Americans funding terrorism. 

Fox News reviews a lawsuit pertaining to this matter as well as the Washington Post.

Even with the Islamic Banking Industry representing $442 billion in 2008, big named financial institutions such as Citicorp, HSBC and Deutsche Bank seek to gain market share by developing Islamic centers catered to this niche area.  The New York Times wrote about how Islamic banking business has grown as a result of oil wealth.  The practice of sharia when it comes to financial matters is intriguing because the approach is similar to venture capitalists.  I like this American captitalistic spirit when it comes to financial matters. 

While there is frowning upon AIG, there is grave concern for our nation.  Setting aside religion and this war we are in whether we want to be or not, the American taxpayer should not be undermined and should not be conned into certain activities that just are not right from a financial perspective. 


Disclaimer:  These articles are referenced and are not necessarily the opinion of the author.  Information provided is for the reader to make an informed decision about financial matters pertaining to the American taxpayer.

Bikers Make Sense

The other day, we were driving down the road when a funeral procession came down the road.  Of course, to show respect, we stopped the motor vehicle.  This was no ordinary funeral procession.  It was amazing.  Bikers abounded everywhere flying the American Flag as well as others.  A spirit of patriotism permeated the air as goose bumps bring you to realize that this is happening.  This was recognition of a fallen hero being laid to rest by the Patriot Riders. 

An all volunteer organization, the Patriot Guard Riders attend funeral services of Fallen Heroes as invited guests of the family members.  Their goal is to show sincere respect and shield  the mourning family from interruptions by potential protesters.  I applaud their efforts because, even with the freedom of speech in this country, there are certain events that should remain untouched by rude political agendas.  Honoring those who fought for our country, whether you agree or not, is admirable and is not done enough by our community. 

Another biker that is unconventional yet brings light on the financial arena is Jim Rogers, author of Investment Biker.  In an interesting interview with Breakout when asked for his opinion on the Federal Reserve, he commented that closing down the Federal Reserve makes sense to him.  Some are puzzled by the Federal Reserve's decision to make crisis loans to Wall Street.  Others are concerned for the US Banking system and in particular the small to medium sized banks.  Small banks and the Federal Reserve are a legitimate concern as Fed Funds Rate remains low such that any change could send some of these institutions to close their doors.

I believe that Rogers and other financial experts are making an interesting call regarding a pullback in the markets.  It makes sense with the recent run-up. 

While there is no need for Patriot Riders to assist these small banks who represent the backbone of the US banking system, there is a silent cry for the slow growing demise of capitalism in this country.  The world financial markets need the US dollar to remain strong, and in order to do so, capitalism must prevail.  A credit inflation that commenced in the 1960s is of concern to financial writers such as John Mason on Seeking Alpha and is likely mounting given world and economic circumstances today.

What do bikers make sense of?

First, honoring fallen heroes, their families and communities.  Like these small banks that are dying, it is time to raise awareness as Jim Rogers and other financial experts are doing. 

Second, shielding those from groups of protestors.  In this day and age, the liberals dominate the media and the conservatives dominate air radio.  No one person can determine the difference between what is appropriate or not.  Capitalism is struggling to survive when socialism is being supported.  Watching the Federal Reserve is key. Perhaps a credit inflation is to occur and very soon.  Therefore, each person should determine a financial way to shield themselves from the oncoming inevitable regarding monetary policy in this country. 

Bikers make sense.  I've always thought that they were cool.  Bikers look cool as you pass them on the road or highway lane.  Yet, these bikers also know that they are taking risks and are okay with them.  That takes guts especially when most folks aren't willing to step out and do something even if it is for the right reasons.

Copyrighted 2011 by Stephanie Arredondo

Lost Art of Etiquette

It seems that there's a lost art of etiquette these days.  Everyone is in a hurry.  Rudeness seems the norm.  People texted while walking and don't pay attention to their surroundings.  How is it that having manners can mean dollar-savings to you in the long run?

Showing kindness, saying please & thank you, and doing the little things makes you a better person, a better citizen of the United States of America and a person responsible for their money and possessions.  If you display good manners, then you are less likely to be in a fight, deal with a legal issue or spend money where preventable had you displayed good etiquette. 

Examples of bad manners:

• Bronze star medal recipient from the Iraq war is ridiculed at a local high school by students.  He works at the high school representing the military ROTC.  When I share this story with friends, family and even strangers, everyone drops their jaw in astonishment.  It's a disgrace.
• A Caucasian woman holds a restaurant door for two African-American males.  Another woman is expected to get her door while the man looks the other way knowlingly.  Chivalry has died if these women accept this act.
• A woman rudely interrupts a speaker's presentation to a group of 50 ladies to ask a question not related to the subject at hand and then proceeds to leave the room.
• A man in position of power and authority decides to use it to his advantage and belittles a subordinate by yelling obscene things at him.
• A woman gets drunk in a public group setting and falsely accuses a man of sexual assault because he refused her.
• Texting while driving is dangerous to everyone.

Etiquette in the New Economy is an interesting article that reviews how mastering certain social skills will help diffuse problems before they start.  Many have lost a job with this challenging economy, and it's challenging for the unemployed and their friend(s) to strike up conversation.  RecessionWire has some good tips on how to contend with this awkward coffee-talk. 

One great way to have financial etiquette is to pay your bills on-time or early.  No late fees or extra payments will be added on to the bill. 

Also, it is important to tip appropriately such as at restaurants, hair salons or other important areas like coat check or the NYC bathroom in the Waldorf Hotel. 

Gifts are a tricky topic, and moneyunder30 highlights some nice ideas.

If you are raising children, it's important to teach good table manners, and that starts at the family dinner table.  Stacey Bradford has a nice write-up on CBSMarketwatch. 

Cell phone etiquette while not enforced should be.  There are seven most broken rules of etiquette when it comes to cell phones.  My vote for most annoying is watching teenagers think that they are so cool as they text back and forth for 10 minutes while at a family social function.  Just leave if you are going to tune out and not be respectful of your elders.

Manners reflect our culture, and in America there are many subcultures to consider.  Corporations and/or businesses are sending employees to Business Etiquette schools so save yourself some future agony and practice good manners for when it matters.

Money can't buy Happiness

Are you happy?  It's a question that many face at different intervals of life.  In America, it seems like happiness is when you've succeeded in your career or have the dream home or have the dream life full of financial means that many so desire.  Yet many people aren't happy.  In fact, funds are allocated in areas where one thinks that it will bring happiness yet it doesn't.

In the February 2011 edition of Reader's Digest on page 176, the article How to Succeed at Life from Harvard Business Review brings to light the bottom line on happiness. 

The three questions to ask yourself are:
1) How can I be happy in my work?
2) How can my relationships with my spouse and family provide me happiness over the long haul?
3) How can I stay out of jail?

The key to understanding these three questions is following the path of several HBS graduates.  Some are successful and get it right.  Some don't.  Many end up in divorce court paying for legal fees, alimony and other items not to mention the mental anguish involved.  Some follow a corrupt road and not only break the law but end up in jail.  Some are unhappy because of choices made in life.  Some overlook their children and realize later in life that their relationship is not what they had hoped.  Many did not orginally decide to go down certain paths when they graduated from school, yet present day reality paints a different picture from the person you knew 20 years ago.

Consistently, faith and family are big factors in determining happiness.  Post-911 saw many people change careers or take a job for less pay so that they could be closer to their family.  I guess it is one of the few positives brought to light by that tragedy.  It's true that money can't buy happiness.

In the military, we spouses and families understand this concept even more when going through deployments and sadly welcoming home a casket rather than a warm body. 

To seek happiness, it is important to keep in mind where you allocate your time and resources.  Spending time with my spouse, family, community, church or job is good when well-balanced.  The money-saving part is in the day to day choices made.  Do I choose to spend more time at the office or attend my son's soccer game?  Do we go to church on Sundays or sleep in?  Do I help my spouse do housework or do I dump it all on her?  Do I increase my travel or take a paycut to be at home for family meals?  Do I give back to the community through volunteer service or make a monetary contribution?  Whatever the case may be, your choices will determine a road of happiness or unhappiness.

Another choice not mentioned in this article but is a critical element regarding your happiness is your faith.  I would encourage you if you do not know about Jesus Christ to seek Him and have a relationship with Him. 

How to Get Happy and The Happiness Project illuminate more on this topic.

Copyrighted 2011 by Stephanie Arredondo aka Alfa Sugar