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Why I’m not a fan of gift cards

 OK. It’s too late to reverse the flood of gift cards given in lieu of more sensible gifts for this Christmas.  On Wednesday, December 23 Suzanne Kapner, writing for The Wall Street Journal, reported on the huge increase in gift card purchases this season.  “Gift-card purchases in the first week of December were twice the…

What mom REALLY needs for Mother’s Day

My New York City sister sent me an email about a Mother’s Day Brunch for “only” $105 per adult and $45 per child! Obviously that’s what the 1% (or 10%) does to celebrate Mother’s Day. What mom really needs is not an expensive restaurant meal, flowers, or another kitchen gadget. What most mothers need, especially…

Where unwanted gifts end up

Long an advocate of less consumption and more investment, with advice like contributing to charity or 529 college savings funds instead of gift cards or buying gifts that are often unwanted, I was intrigued with the growth in on-line “consignment shops.” According to Patrick McGroarty, writing for The Wall Street Journal, “unwanted holiday gifts and…

Four Financial Gifts to Consider for the Holidays

Presents that encourage savings and reduce debt can be a lot more meaningful than another gadget, according to Veronica Dagher, writing for The Wall Street Journal (12/13/16). “Forget about buying your loved ones sweaters or gadgets this holiday season. Instead, consider giving a financial gift, not cash or a check stuffed in an envelope. Think…

The More of Less: Finding the life you want under everything you own

During this highly acquisitive time as too many people frantically shop for the holidays, buying gifts that are not really wanted or needed… Joshua Becker’s book The More of Less extolls the value of paring down one’s possessions to simplify life and reduce debt. As quoted from the book’s website http://www.themoreofless.com/: “Most of us know…