Just for Fun

How to Raise Financially Independent Kids

Posted on May 7, 2012 in Baby Boomers, Budgeting, Cash Flow, Family, Plan Retirement, Video

As a parent of a 16 year old, I know well that a child can be a financial drain. From diapers to athletic activities to college education, our kids are the gift that keeps on giving…or rather, taking. Smart parents, however, will take steps to ensure that their kids become financially independent, instead of continued drain on the family’s finances.

Here are some typical mistakes that parents make and ways that you can prevent them:

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Women Building Wealth – Investing in a Volatile Economy

Posted on Apr 23, 2012 in Announcements, Economy, Investment, Women and Money

An Ongoing Educational Workshop for Women

Investing in a Volatile Economy- Market Valuations

In particular, we will discuss:

  • How to tell if the market is favorably valued.
  • What is a PE Ratio? and can it predict if the market is poised for a fall?
  • Market Timing – Does it work?   Can technical analysis of stock prices help you predict market moves?

Tuesday,  June 12th, 2012
11:45AM to 1:00PM 

Bring your own lunch; drinks will be provided.

Irmo Chamber of Commerce
1248 Lake Murray Blvd.
Irmo, SC 29063

Attendance is limited to the first 10 RSVPs.
Reserve your space today at (803) 331-3721 or email laura@ascendfinancialplanning.com.

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Enjoy Your Holiday Season This Year Without Breaking The Bank

Posted on Nov 20, 2011 in Budgeting, Cash Flow, Economy, Family, Financial Management, Food

A recent survey shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans or roughly 62% will be spending less this holiday season.  In fact, 85% of people say that having money in the bank makes them happier than spending on stuff they don’t need.  Here are some recommendations to help make the holidays more affordable this year so you don’t suffer from a spending hangover that you need to recover from for months after the holidays are over.

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How to Raise a Financially Responsible Child

Posted on Oct 16, 2011 in Budgeting, Family, Financial Management, Uncategorized

Most parents do not talk to their children about money or share aspects of the budget with their kids.  Many children are ignorant regarding basic money concepts and believe that their parents will subsidize their lifestyles well into their late 20s if not longer.  Setting expectations as they mature is very important.

There is no reason your adult children should be continuing to live on the “Bank of Mom and Dad”.  Here are some age based guidelines to help your child become more financially dependent.

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Reconciling Money Differences-Tips to Achieve Financial Harmony with Your Loved One

Posted on Oct 16, 2011 in Budgeting, Cash Flow, Family, Uncategorized, Women and Money

Did you know that 71% of Americans admit that they keep secrets and lie to their spouse or partner about money?  Many couples struggle with money differences due to their backgrounds, beliefs and habits surrounding money.   Here are some tips for being on the same page as your spouse or partner.

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Yummy Recipe for Healthy Muffins

Posted on Sep 14, 2011 in Food, Just for Fun, Women and Money

Here is the recipe for the excellent carrot muffins we enjoyed at our recent Women Building Wealth meeting.
Thanks again, to Debbie for bringing them.

Marjorie’s Brunch Muffins
Combine:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole-wheat flour
¾ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking soda
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt

Combine in second bowl:
3 beaten eggs
½ cup canola oil
½ cup milk
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Add liquid ingredients to dry ingredients

Fold in:
2 cups chopped peeled apples (I leave skin on them)
2 cups grated carrots
½ cup flaked coconut
½ cup raisins
½ cup sliced almonds
Lightly spray muffin tins for easy removal. You may fill tins fairly liberally. If you make mini muffins cook at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. This recipe makes 50+ mini muffins. For larger muffins bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes.
Great for luncheons and children of all ages.

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