<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' xmlns:georss='http://www.georss.org/georss' xmlns:gd='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005' xmlns:thr='http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809</id><updated>2012-01-02T08:56:33.537-08:00</updated><category term='making speeches'/><category term='memory help'/><category term='live good'/><category term='क्रेडिट'/><category term='making money'/><category term='living large on small money'/><category term='car repair'/><category term='risk tolerance'/><category term='stupidity'/><category term='Debt Free'/><category term='summer'/><category term='business budgeting'/><category term='how to credit'/><category term='smart credit'/><category term='sales'/><category term='finding money'/><category term='entry level jobs'/><category 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term='protecting name'/><category term='self esteem'/><category term='debt reduction'/><category term='marketing'/><category term='manage people'/><category term='living well'/><category term='the universe and everything and how to enjoy oneself in it.'/><category term='Mortgages'/><category term='smart shopping'/><category term='health insurance'/><category term='do it yourself repairs'/><category term='Holiday Shopping'/><category term='working smart'/><category term='missing money'/><category term='lost property'/><category term='smart budgets'/><category term='fraud prevention'/><category term='health care costs'/><category term='bad science'/><category term='real estate'/><category term='dealing with people'/><category term='gambling problems'/><category term='हेल्प फॉर देब्त problems'/><category term='press'/><category term='public speaking'/><category term='Green Investing'/><category term='difficult people'/><category term='Finance'/><category term='Discovery Channel'/><category term='Environmental Investments'/><category term='marketing online'/><category term='क्रेडिट कार्ड्स'/><category term='how to find a job'/><category term='teh universe and everything and how to enjoy oneself in it.'/><category term='science'/><category term='Making Ends Meet'/><category term='Saving Money'/><category term='s'/><category term='home repairs'/><category term='back to school'/><category term='Home Equity Loans'/><category term='recession'/><category term='Creditors'/><category term='positive thinking'/><category term='vacation'/><category term='online trading'/><category term='Housing Scams'/><category term='home business'/><category term='valuables'/><category term='Banking'/><category term='how to public speaking'/><category term='save on car repair'/><category term='saving face'/><category term='wise shopping'/><category term='Election Year'/><category term='Investments'/><category term='life'/><category term='powere personal progress'/><category term='gambling scams'/><category term='economics'/><category term='budgets'/><category term='Credut'/><category term='investment'/><category term='selling online'/><category term='money making'/><category term='grocery shopping'/><category term='f'/><category term='Saving Money on school supplies'/><category term='fitness'/><category term='King Tut'/><category term='investing'/><title type='text'>Poor Rens Almanack</title><subtitle type='html'>Tips and Tricks For Doing Business and Living The Champagne Life On A Beer Budget</subtitle><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default?max-results=100'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/'/><link rel='hub' href='http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/'/><link rel='next' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default?start-index=101&amp;max-results=100'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>115</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>100</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-218396835731982837</id><published>2012-01-02T08:56:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2012-01-02T08:56:33.558-08:00</updated><title type='text'>New Year, New Hopes, New Dreams, and New Opportunities</title><content type='html'>&lt;br /&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Wishing all my readers a wonderfulexciting 2012. &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;After the roller coaster ride that wasthe last few years, one can only expect the new year to be better.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;But say the so called experts, howabout the problems in the Middle East or with the European Unionpossible breakup? &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Well tell me when has there ever beenno problems in the Middle East? As far as one can tell from history,there has always been problems in the Middle East since the beginningof recorded history.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Problems in Europe? Well unless youexport only to the EU, then it doesn't have as much effect on yourbusiness as you may think. In fact it is better for the United Statesas money will be flowing into the country as a safe haven from thevolatile conditions overseas.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;The thing is our economy has stabilizedas the worst of the financial crisis of 2008-2010 is over and thingsare on the upswing. Sure the politicians of both parties will try andtake credit, but let's face if they did less the recovery would havehappened sooner. Possibly it may have been stronger, but alas one cannever really know can one?&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;The thing to do is to look around fornew opportunities to grow your business. Find and open new markets asyou expand your reach and profits.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Positive action brings positiveresults. On the flip side if all you do is focus on the negative,well of course you will find what you are looking for. &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;So the trick is to deal with yourproblems as they occur, but focus on positive goals and the outcomewill be positive in the long run. &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;So buck up folks and get ready for agreat new year full of opportunities and growth, if you are smartenough to take advantage of them. &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Come back next time for more tips,tricks and techniques to assist you in your marketing and salesefforts as you learn to live the champagne life on a beer budget.Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Mahalo.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;********************************************************************&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;For environmentally smart resources tohelp you with your Online Business check out&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html" target="_blank"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html&amp;nbsp;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;Fast easy resources to help you withyour marketing, save a tree by not wasting paper, be environmentallycorrect and have some fun and learn something to boot!&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"&gt;********************************************************************&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-218396835731982837?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/218396835731982837/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=218396835731982837' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/218396835731982837'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/218396835731982837'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2012/01/new-year-new-hopes-new-dreams-and-new.html' title='New Year, New Hopes, New Dreams, and New Opportunities'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2577730101061572937</id><published>2011-10-05T09:47:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-10-05T09:49:38.070-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='lost property'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='live good'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>The Secret to Smart Budgeting</title><content type='html'>With all this talk about a possible new recession on the horizon, watching your finances has become even more important. The great thing about learning to watch your spending is that once times get better you will have developed the discipline to ensure you can weather just about any financial storm.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There's nothing more we want than to be able to efficiently manage our money. After all, the money that we want to manage is money that is oftentimes, hard earned. This is where a budget comes in. A budget executed properly, should help you see where your money is going, get more utility out of every buck, and help you save some extra for future use. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The first smart secret to a budget is to set a goal. What do you want to achieve? Do you want to correctly appropriate your income into bills payments? Do you want to put an amount aside for a big purchase or a huge investment? By having a goal, you will be able to shape your budget to best serve your interests. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Secondly, you would want to take note of where your money usually goes. This includes bills, major but regular purchases (like grocery costs, healthcare costs, and the like), and everyday miscellaneous purchases. Only when you list down where you know your money usually goes will you be able to identify which expenses you can do without. Once you've identified these regular expenditures, take into consideration what you can cut back on. How much do you spend on your daily caffeine fix in the morning? How much do you spend on newspaper deliveries to your front door? The measly $2 or $5 of these small purchases cumulatively translates to more than $3600 a year! Instead of buying your expensive latte or reading the newspaper on print, put aside the amount you would usually pay for these small routine purchases in a small container. You will be surprised at how much you're saving out of your older budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Being indebted is a vicious cycle on its own. You're talking about continuous payments, not to mention huge interest rates. The best way to deal with this is to pay the minimum on all of your debts in order to avoid paying extraneous late fees. Whatever cash excesses you may have, you can opt to add on to the payments you make in your biggest debt. This way, you are concentrated on getting the biggest debts first that cost you the greatest interest rates. Doing this progressively, you'll be amazed at how much you'll get off your huge debts.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The last and most important step is to jot down the amount you earn the sum you spend. You can make use of computer cash management programs, or make database sheets of your own. Make a system that works for you and will help you keep track of your monthly budgeting progress.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2577730101061572937?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2577730101061572937/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2577730101061572937' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2577730101061572937'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2577730101061572937'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/10/secret-to-smart-budgeting.html' title='The Secret to Smart Budgeting'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5168343303336395120</id><published>2011-09-19T09:07:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-09-19T09:08:39.099-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>ReDecorate a Teenager’s Room Without Breaking The Bank</title><content type='html'>If you are the parent of a teenager, sooner or later the subject of redecorating what has been a child’s room will come up. Of course any good parent cares about the needs of their children at any age. The teen years are hard enough as the child is going through changes and trying to find their place in the world. One of the ways they show their personality is through their rooms. But what can a parent do when the teen wants to redecorate their room, but the money is tight? Well here are a few tips to keep everyone happy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A teenager’s room is different from a child’s room in that it should be treated more like an adult space.  But, it should have a slightly fun flair to it also.  It is best if you involve your teenager in coming up with a theme that will help to express who they are (and not what you want).  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also, when redecorating your teenager’s room, let them choose the colors, but provide them with some guidance.  So why not let them have a look on the internet and see what they can find? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When redecorating a teen’s room, remember that they are very sensitive to color, and they are much more free with their sense of adventure.  Why not go for using a bolder color on the wall behind the bed, and in this way you have a great focal point.  Plus, it will save on you having to decorate the whole room.  Also, it means that you can include a color in the room that they really like and want, but which will not overpower the room completely.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another way to redecorate your teen’s room when on a tight budget is to change the window covering.  Instead of curtains, why not get them blinds instead?  Because they come in so many different designs, colors and materials, there is likely to be something that they will like.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why not get hold of a small table and turn this up into a cool make up vanity by painting it to match your teenager daughter’s bedroom décor?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also you could get some colorful bed linens to bring all the elements of the decorating you have done together.  You could even purchase extra sheets, which can be made into curtains and lampshades that will match the rest of the décor.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you can not afford to replace a worn out carpet in your teen’s bedroom, then opt to have it taken up, and go for low maintenance painted floors with some throw rugs.  Also, why not include some large cushions which they can use when their friends come round?  It will provide them with a much more relaxing and friendly atmosphere for them and a place where they can get away from it all.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Rather than replacing a perfectly good bed, instead, just get a more adult like headboard for it instead. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Plus, by rearranging your teen’s furniture in their room, you will be able to give it a whole new dramatic look.  Many successful teen room makeovers can quickly and easily be accomplished just by changing the layout of a room.  Also, by introducing new accessories and lighting to their room, it can help to change the look of a teen’s room dramatically.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you want to make a teen’s room look a little funkier, then pick up some fringe or beading from a clearance table at the local craft store.  You can then glue this around the bottom edge of the lampshade and the hems of curtains to provide a new look.  You could even glue it around the edges of shelves.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why not keep those free CD’s that such people as AOL put in to magazines etc., and turn them over on to the reverse side and glue them to the frame of a mirror or to cover a closet door.  Another great way is to glue them in an overlapping fashion and use them as a faux frame for your teen’s posters.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, as you can see, there are many ways in which a teen’s bedroom can be redecorated and will not end up costing the parents an arm or a leg.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in your marketing and sales efforts as you learn to live the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For environmentally smart resources to help you with your Online Business check out&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html &lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Fast easy resources to help you with your marketing, save a tree by not wasting paper, be environmentally correct and have some fun and learn something to boot!&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5168343303336395120?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5168343303336395120/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5168343303336395120' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5168343303336395120'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5168343303336395120'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/09/redecorate-teenagers-room-without.html' title='ReDecorate a Teenager’s Room Without Breaking The Bank'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6303156029156741720</id><published>2011-09-06T07:39:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-09-06T07:40:02.332-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='economics'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living well'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Living Well Through Better Budgeting</title><content type='html'>In these down economic times, when jobs are uncertain, businesses unstable and credit is all but impossible to obtain, one has to really be careful and watch their pennies. When one is unsure of the financial future, one needs to be aware of where their money is going. For that one needs to sit down and work out a budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your spending patterns, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are tips on how to budget:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Have good sense of money management.  Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone.  Consider it, and benefit from it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; One can still live very well without spending a lot of money if you are smart about it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6303156029156741720?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6303156029156741720/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6303156029156741720' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6303156029156741720'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6303156029156741720'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/09/living-well-through-better-budgeting.html' title='Living Well Through Better Budgeting'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8493634050799150657</id><published>2011-08-17T09:39:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-08-17T09:40:13.425-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to marketing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='marketing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='selling online'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='marketing online'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='business budgeting'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='sales'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='increasing profits'/><title type='text'>Bundle Up To Increase Your Profits</title><content type='html'>&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Everyday we are hit by numerous messages from the cable, satellite and phone companies about bundling their services to save money. But if you check the fine details it is all about making profits for the respective companies. But, you ask can you use this same strategy to increase your own sales, and therefore your own profits? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why not!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;An effective way to increase your profits and sales is to bundle many products or services together into one package. This gives people more reasons to buy your products and services. People also have come to believe package deals are a better value. You want all the products or services to be closely related. For example: if you're selling a computer you could add in software, hardware, computer furniture, etc. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many ways to go about choosing the right products or services to bundle into one package. You could survey your customers and see what products or services they would like you to offer in the future. Spy on your competition and see what products and services they're offering or not offering. If you would like to, bundle unrelated products or services together, ask your customers which ones would be of interest to them. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bundling can also increase your target markets which in return would give you a larger audience to sell your products and services. For example: if you're selling a baseball magazine you could add a free baseball when someone buys a subscription. You're now targeting people who want the baseball magazine and those that want to play baseball out in the yard. Some people buy a package deal just to get one of the products. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many sources where you can find products and services to create a package deal. You can buy them from wholesalers or drop shippers. You can  buy the reproduction/resell rights to other people's products. Team-up with your competition to create a package deal. You could joint venture or cross promotion deal with other businesses. You could also create your own products and services. Be  creative! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in your marketing and sales efforts as you learn to live the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For environmentally smart resources to help you with your Online Business check out&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html &lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Fast easy resources to help you with your marketing, save a tree by not wasting paper, be environmentally correct and have some fun and learn something to boot!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8493634050799150657?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8493634050799150657/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8493634050799150657' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8493634050799150657'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8493634050799150657'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/08/bundle-up-to-increase-your-profits.html' title='Bundle Up To Increase Your Profits'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3621758137497608810</id><published>2011-08-02T11:28:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-08-02T11:29:26.763-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='powere personal progress'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='positive thinking'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='success'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='self esteem'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='self help'/><title type='text'>Success Begins In The Mind</title><content type='html'>It is said that the only true success in life is living life your own way. As simple as that statement is, too many people feel like a loser because they let other people define success for them, and they don't always achieve the ideal goals that are thrust upon them by parents, friends, TV, politicians or just society in general. To truly become a success, you just need to block out all that other clutter and define it yourself and work towards goals and dreams that you really want to achieve.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Success is characterized in various forms, also has many meanings depending on what one is seeking for in his life, relationship and career.  To athletes, success can mean obtaining that gold medal, to parents, success can mean raising children with good moral values, to doctors, success can mean saving a life and to some it can mean a job promotion or acquiring wealth. It actually depends on one's perspective of the life that one has. Understanding and success perceptions are as abundant as there are stars in the sky.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One apparent thing about success is that every individual has to determine the true meaning of success in his own life. The one's who walk through life making an attempt to accomplish “success” through someone else's standards or through the standards of one's society will continuously be lacking of that successful feeling.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The modern dictionary defines success as that certain measure or degree of achievement or accomplishment or as a desirable and favorable outcome.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One should make a decision on what one truly wants that can offer a desirable or favorable outcome that must be in each aspect of ones life. To accomplish success, one has to set realistic goals for his life, meaning goals that can be achieved. One should measure success as to how close one comes to accomplishing one's goals that one has set for himself based on one's skills and abilities.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Know that one's “subconscious mind” is a very incredible and powerful tool that one has yet to improve and utilize it wisely to its complete capacity, to accomplish success. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To fully understand how powerful and encouraging your “subconscious mind” can be, you should understand first and recognize that there really is no “coincidence”, that nothing in life occurs just by chance. Meaning, nothing is predestined, that you have the power to control your life, to control your success and your failure. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Events or incidents in life can be maneuvered or controlled to resolve one's problems. You have the power to change certain aspects of your life that you are not contented with. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whereas there is no disagreeing to the actuality that one can not at all times acquire what he wants, it is likewise true that one can utilize one's natural power over events of one's life and cause things to move on ones desired direction more frequently. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Expectation, belief and desire are three powerful forces that can help one do so. Before anything that one wishes for to occur can happen, one must desire for it to happen, should believe deeply that it will happen and one should expect that it will happen.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The subconscious mind generates all things in one's life that is on the information and messages one sends to it. One is continuously and regularly sending the mind information and messages and most information sent are useless or that they are negative information functioning against you. This is why things never recuperate regardless of your efforts to make it succeed.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It will be truly difficult to follow any success level if you are not specific and clear regarding what you believe is attainable for yourself. It is then extremely significant assess and gauge your actions, thoughts and motives as you partake your daily life. You should gain understanding and knowledge of where you are and what are you doing wrong as well as what you are doing right. Subsequently you should be ready to change for the better when and as it is needed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always remember that whatever you display in your beliefs, thoughts and actions are sent to the “subconscious mind”.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So be very careful of your thoughts, beliefs and actions, as they are great influences to your success.  Note that if you worry constantly about not acquiring enough finances, then you will really not acquire enough; thinking that you do not have the capability to accomplish your goals, then you will never achieve any; thinking that there not enough open opportunities, then there will never be. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why? Simply because the subconscious mind is constantly working on those information that you have sent and a negative information results to nothing but negative reality. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When you do accomplish your goal, stop a while and relish that certain satisfaction and pleasure of achieving a goal. Great or small, it is success; a beginning of that life that you want for yourself!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3621758137497608810?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3621758137497608810/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3621758137497608810' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3621758137497608810'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3621758137497608810'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/08/success-begins-in-mind.html' title='Success Begins In The Mind'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3517081322348291106</id><published>2011-07-18T08:21:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-07-18T08:22:40.386-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='back to school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money on school supplies'/><title type='text'>How to Save Money for Tuition Fees</title><content type='html'>Ah the summer is half over and it is time for parents and children to start thinking about getting back to school. If you haven't thought, well just go into any store and they'll remind you all right with all their special sales on school supplies. For those with younger children going to public schools one doesn't think much about it, as the cost of the schooling is taken care of by the local government. But what if you want your child to go to college? When is it too soon to start planning for their education? How does one start? Read on if you can't answer those questions. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As soon as their child is born, parents can start saving up for their children’s college education. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With tuition fees climbing up yearly, it is better to have a sound financial plan so that it would not be difficult for you to send your kids off to college when they grow up. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Aside from the cash that you have saved yourself, here are the top 3 sources that can help you get your kids through college: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Scholarship grants &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Part-time jobs &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Financial aids&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These are good alternative sources for your children to start off on their college education. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But as a parent, you would not want to fall in those long lines for financial aid or let your child work himself to death just to have money for tuition and other expenses. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some ways on how you can have a jump start at shaving off those hard-earned bucks for your child’s college education:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. The earlier, the better. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Start investing your money as soon as your child is born. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;First, put the savings or investments under your name. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Later on, decide whether you want to transfer the account to your child’s name by  the time he or she turns 15. This way, you will have minimal taxes, if at all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, you need to be careful when transferring account names. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some states require a total turnover of funds once your child turns 18 or 21. This is also ineffective if, in the future, you apply for financial aid. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also remember that tuition fees 10 or 15 years from now may double or even triple the current rates. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Establish a trust fund for your child. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is a very wise plan for a child’s parents or relatives to invest in. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A trust fund is similar to a time-deposit where the money will be given to your child after a certain number of years. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;After the designated time, the fund may be received in one lump sum or through an installment basis. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When building up a trust fund, check out details like the interest rates, taxes and withdrawal restrictions. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;All in all, you need to approximate the costs of tuition fees, dorm room, meals, books, and other expenses that may come up.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Make sure that you invest money wisely as your child grows. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;By the time that there are only two or three years to go before you send your son or daughter off to college, "lock" an ample amount of the funds by investing them in low-risk bonds to ensure that you will get to have enough for them to start their college education.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3517081322348291106?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3517081322348291106/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3517081322348291106' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3517081322348291106'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3517081322348291106'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/07/how-to-save-money-for-tuition-fees.html' title='How to Save Money for Tuition Fees'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5312532143238179507</id><published>2011-07-12T07:34:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-07-12T07:35:59.933-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='vacation'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Vacationing With The Family Without Breaking The Bank.</title><content type='html'>Ah yes the vacation season is upon us and people are taking the family out to broaden their minds and horizons. It was always an interesting time back when I was younger and we would pack up the family every summer and either head to the mountains or visit the maternal grandparents in Florida (depending upon who chose the vacation that year).   Traveling can be fun for the whole family, but alas can also be very expensive. Here are a few ideas you can use to have fun and not over spend while doing so.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Traveling as a family can really add to the costs. Children are often charged a lot more than seems fair and the overall price of a family holiday can soon get out of hand by the time you factor in all of the food and activities.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Family Camps&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;An increasingly popular choice for families is the family camp. Accommodation varies with everything from a basic tent to well equipped log cabins with all of the modern facilities that you would expect in a large hotel.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;YMCA offer a range of camps such as the Snow Mountain Ranch in Colorado that spans 5,100 acres and can host 2,500 people in cabins. Activities are available for children aged 3 and over including skiing, climbing and riding. Adults can enjoy use of the gym and health center or simply enjoy a bit of quiet time while the children are being tired out!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Money Saving Booking Tips&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When you are booking with children it is really important to get to know what deals are available. Some companies offer children’s prices right up to 16 years old, others start to charge full price at age 3. Depending on the age of your children, one company may prove substantially cheaper for the same holiday. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Consider your sleeping arrangements carefully. Some hotels will offer adjoining rooms, others will have family rooms that sleep children as well as adults. Most hotels will not allow young children in their own room, so bear this in mind when booking.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have more than two children you may find that an apartment offers better value for money and more usable space. A two or three bedroom cottage will often be a lot cheaper than two or three rooms in a hotel.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Use the children as a means of negotiation. For example, ask for a discount on their air fare or accommodation or ask for free entrance to an activity while you are booking.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keeping a Lid on Spending Money&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Traveling with children can be expensive when you add up the costs of activities, food and children’s clubs if they are available. If you are working to a budget then it may well be worth considering an all-inclusive holiday resort. Although these are normally more expensive to book initially, it is easier to anticipate your spending in advance. As meals and drinks are included you will not have to worry about the constant demands from the children for soda!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Find out how much children’s clubs will cost and when they are available, prices can vary substantially, so do your homework if you are not to get stung with a large bill at the end of the holiday.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It may even be worth traveling with another family with children of a similar age, as the adults can then take it in turns to child mind, meaning that everyone gets a break and the children have friends to play with! Also the bigger the group the bigger the discounts, normally, so even if you do not want to spend the whole time with another family, you can still benefit from booking together.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5312532143238179507?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5312532143238179507/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5312532143238179507' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5312532143238179507'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5312532143238179507'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/07/vacationing-with-family-without.html' title='Vacationing With The Family Without Breaking The Bank.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-853594990160778178</id><published>2011-06-08T10:48:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-06-08T10:49:35.204-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='vacation'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='summer'/><title type='text'>Saving Money While Still Having Fun On Your Vacation</title><content type='html'>Summer is here and again it is time when most people take their family vacations. The kids are out of school and of course it is expected of the parents to use their vacation time then. In these tough and uncertain times (have there ever been easy and certain economic times? I didn't think so either) saving money once you reach your destination is easy if you know some simple tricks. Plus you'll have more money to spend.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Restaurants &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Car Rental&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-853594990160778178?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/853594990160778178/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=853594990160778178' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/853594990160778178'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/853594990160778178'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/06/saving-money-while-still-having-fun-on.html' title='Saving Money While Still Having Fun On Your Vacation'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5633610884650048231</id><published>2011-05-24T08:38:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-05-24T08:39:43.371-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling problems'/><title type='text'>OFFLINE GAMBLING...For richer or poorer</title><content type='html'>We have all heard about how Online Poker and other Online casino sites are riff with scams and illegal actions. And with the recent crackdown by the federal Government on Online Poker Sites, gamblers have been turning back to the old stand by, Offline gambling to get their action fix.  The problem is though that scams and ripoffs aren't limited to online sites alone.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling is very popular, from way back when, and more so today.  It is a scam itself.  In fact the oldest form known.  Not only a scam, but very deceptive.  Statistics show that about six percent of adults that are involved in gambling are severely addicted to such a "past time" as they call it. People who are hooked on gambling have the urge to bet on almost anything.  From horses, cards, and the casino. The number doesn't end there.  It continues to expand.   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Casino scams are everywhere.  High payouts and promising winnings are put up in huge slogans thereby attracting people who want to earn money the fast, easy and enjoyable way.  A fact is gamblers waste a lot of their time, in the hope of winning.  So they don't give up easily.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Studies show that gambling problems can easily occur in individuals with no self control.  It is necessary for one to identify if he has problems, so it can be identified and acted upon promptly.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some questions one should ask to detect if there is a problem:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* After gambling, when you lose money, be it a small or a large amount, do regret it, or feel resentment?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* When you win, do you have a strong desire to win more, therefore you want to go back?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* When you lose, do you feel a need to go back very soon?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* Do you spend a lot of time gambling, usually longer than what you planned?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*If you have problems, do you gamble to forget them? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* Are you spending more time gambling than with work?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*Do you not stop until your very last dollar is taken up?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*Do arguments take place between you and your family as a result of your need to gamble?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*To finance your gambling, do you borrow money from friends or associates?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling addiction can be destructive.  Family, friends and your reputation are at risk.  It is a condition often times ignored.  There are escape gamblers that affect seventy five percent of women from their thirties and up.  Usually the reasons for gambling is to escape from the emotional pain that they are in, being bored, lonely, depressed or that they make gambling their hobby or past time.  These types of addiction can be cured in three to six months.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The action gambler is much more difficult to deal.  Most are men, where gambling for them creates ecstasy like a drug addition.  This is much harder to cure, since the individual will deny the fact, when confronted.  They will typically not stop until left with nothing, financially.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As gambling creates a lot of scams, it is a fact that still more and more are drawn to it.  The primary reason is to win a huge amount of money.  But then comes in the most lethal of reasons -- that of feeling a certain euphoria.  Scams or no scams, an individual still continues to gamble and is a reason why offline gambling still thrives today.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5633610884650048231?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5633610884650048231/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5633610884650048231' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5633610884650048231'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5633610884650048231'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/05/offline-gamblingfor-richer-or-poorer.html' title='OFFLINE GAMBLING...For richer or poorer'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4991327477295784571</id><published>2011-05-17T10:25:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-05-17T10:26:18.168-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='live good'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling problems'/><title type='text'>How to Tell When Gambling Becomes a Vice</title><content type='html'>AH the lure of easy money. Or maybe it is just a way to feel thrills without risking one's life. Whatever the reason hundreds of millions of people across the globe participate in some sort of gambling. Whether it is just a few nickels in a slot machine or it's hundreds of thousands on on football game,  it all adds up to big business. The question is, when does it cross the line from passive entertainment to full blown addiction.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;At first, gambling would be a choice of those looking for excitement or challenge, but it would have a very high possibility that one would get hooked, crave for more and get addicted to it. Gambling as a vice would not be that far.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are different effects caused by gambling, the degree of these effects matter on the length of the time one engages on it. Well, there are people who engage on it without any dash of negative effects or consequences but we could hide the reality which shows that majority of the people who are into gambling are bombarded by various problems in the area of economic security, family issues, community crimes, psychological issues and more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Economic security&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With the urge to win prizes and try their luck, gamblers do not stop betting and venturing on their luck. As proved by studies, in general, those who are poor are the ones who are fond of betting and gambling. This leads to the poor people’s incurring of more debts as they are not really of the capacity to gamble for a long time.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Family issues&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Since gambling becomes a vice or an addiction, it would be a subject of arguments for couples. There are studies in the US which clearly shows that there are numbers of wives and husbands being abused by pathological gambling spouses. Communities with casinos are more prone to crimes that affect or involve the family.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Community Crimes&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are a lot of crimes and fraudulent activities that are being caused by gambling. Records would show that in areas where gambling is accessible, crime rates also balloons compared to those where gambling is not around.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Psychological issues&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;More studies show that there is a great percentage that suicide would be committed by pathological gamblers. Due to the yearning for luck and triumph, once failure bites, depression follows the soonest. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These are just some of the negative effects of gambling to people. Do you choose to be a victim?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and &lt;br /&gt;receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a &lt;br /&gt;href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4991327477295784571?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4991327477295784571/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4991327477295784571' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4991327477295784571'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4991327477295784571'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-tell-when-gambling-becomes-vice.html' title='How to Tell When Gambling Becomes a Vice'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3718270287934025783</id><published>2011-05-03T06:38:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-05-03T06:40:37.579-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='live good'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>How To Stay On Target With Your Family Budget</title><content type='html'>In these economic (or any economic times really) the secret to financial independence and peace of mind is to watch how one spends their money. People who spend recklessly in good times are hurt when there is a downturn or emergency situation crop up. But financially smart people prepare a budget and stick to it no matter what the economic times are, and when emergencies hit they are better off to weather the storm. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The always ever increasing cost of living in today's society, wherever you may be, has made budgeting a priority among families.  In today's inflationary world, nothing is more important than knowing how to wisely spend the income that you get.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Financial problems usually arise due to lack of proper budgeting skills, or failure to keep to the proposed budget.  No matter how much income you may have, it is still important to keep track of your assets and liabilities, your earnings and expenses.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is ironic but a person who earns thousands will have the same problems with the person who earns by the hundreds.  Most often, different kinds of people, with diverse income levels, have budgeting problems.   Others who may have been successful in making a budget, usually fail to keep within such a budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A budget refers to a financial plan, taking the incoming and outgoing monetary resources into consideration.  A good budget should not only mean a balance or equity between income and expenditures.  It also means lesser expenses, and making an allowance for savings.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you earn a thousand dollars per month, you should map out all the necessary expenses you will have to incur during the month such as payment for your house, food and transportation.  Of course, this is presuming that your tax liabilities have already been settled.  What remains after you deduct your total expenses from your income is your savings.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What you do with your savings will make a difference later on, when the need arises.  You can choose to keep your savings in a piggy bank or place it in a bank where there is minimum interest rate but at least your money is safe from you and from intruders.  With a bigger savings, you can get the services of a financial adviser who can give you higher-yielding investment options&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are tips to make sure that you keep within the family budget:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Maintain a logbook where you can list your income and expense account on a weekly or monthly schedule.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Buy your groceries at one time.  To do this, make a list of all the things that you would need for your target period and purchase them at one time.  Sometimes, there are discounts if you buy by the dozen so take advantage of this.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Avoid going to the supermarket and shops if you do not need to buy necessary items.  This will keep you from making unnecessary purchases and keep you from straying away from your budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.Think twice before you buy something.  By doing this, you will realize that it is not really a necessity but a whim.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3718270287934025783?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3718270287934025783/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3718270287934025783' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3718270287934025783'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3718270287934025783'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/05/how-to-stay-on-target-with-your-family.html' title='How To Stay On Target With Your Family Budget'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-7330428019379781694</id><published>2011-04-25T08:42:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-04-25T08:43:40.789-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Finance'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Personal Finance'/><title type='text'>Plan Your vacation and Save Money While Having Fun</title><content type='html'>Ah Spring time is here and many of us are already looking forward to summer and the vacation season. In these tough economic times everyone is looking for ways to save money without sacrificing fun and adventure. It is easy to do with the proper prior planning.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?&lt;br /&gt;Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?&lt;br /&gt;Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?&lt;br /&gt;Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Firstly, if you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are planning on creating your own package then you need to be aware that you are taking multiple gambles. For example, you need to consider your airfare, hotels and transport. Whilst you may get an excellent last minute flight, you may not be so lucky when it comes to the hotel or car hire. In fact, you may find that paying a premium for other parts of your holiday will end up out-weighing any last minute savings you have made.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a general rule, if you are looking to go on a specific holiday, a cruise, for example, with a specific company or a destination that is only offered by a few operators, you may find that last minute bargains are simply not available. Cruising is a classic example of this. A cruise line will offer holidays for a certain price, whilst they may offer their holidays through different agents who may individually offer discounts, the actual price of the cruise is likely to remain very similar no matter who you go to for your price. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.cz.cc/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-7330428019379781694?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/7330428019379781694/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=7330428019379781694' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7330428019379781694'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7330428019379781694'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/04/plan-your-vacation-and-save-money-while.html' title='Plan Your vacation and Save Money While Having Fun'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6251558595716518808</id><published>2011-04-12T10:25:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2011-04-12T10:27:04.289-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to invest'/><title type='text'>Coming Up With The Right Investment Strategy</title><content type='html'>You finally have your financial situation worked out where you have a few extra bucks to invest in your future. But before you do you need to understand exactly what is you need to do and what are your desired results from your investments. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Because investing is not a sure thing in most cases, it is much like a game – you don’t know the outcome until the game has been played and a winner has been declared. Anytime you play almost any type of game, you have a strategy. Investing isn’t any different – you need an investment strategy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;An investment strategy is basically a plan for investing your money in various types of investments that will help you meet your financial goals in a specific amount of time. Each type of investment contains individual investments that you must choose from. A clothing store sells clothes – but those clothes consist of shirts, pants, dresses, skirts, undergarments, etc. The stock market is a type of investment, but it contains different types of stocks, which all contain different companies that you can invest in. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you haven’t done your research, it can quickly become very confusing – simply because there are so many different types of investments and individual investments to choose from. This is where your strategy, combined with your risk tolerance and investment style all come into play. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are new to investments, work closely with a financial planner before making any investments. They will help you develop an investment strategy that will not only fall within the bounds of your risk tolerance and your investment style, but will also help you achieve your financial goals. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Never invest money without having a goal and a strategy for reaching that goal! This is essential. Nobody hands their money over to anyone without knowing what that money is being used for and when they will get it back! If you don’t have a goal, a plan, or a strategy, that is essentially what you are doing! Always start with a goal and a strategy for reaching that goal!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/products.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6251558595716518808?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6251558595716518808/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6251558595716518808' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6251558595716518808'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6251558595716518808'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/04/coming-up-with-right-investment.html' title='Coming Up With The Right Investment Strategy'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3730115860108078917</id><published>2011-03-01T06:39:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2011-03-01T06:40:18.826-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Saving Money Through Self-Discipline</title><content type='html'>A great way to save money is to be aware of the fact that one has the power to define the state of his finances specifically through a conscious effort of disciplining the way one spends and controlling one's expenditures.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Self-discipline will most definitely be the key to reducing one's debts therefore increasing the possibility of growing one's savings.  And in the long run, improve one's standard of living.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to money management book author Robert Hastings, "Undisciplined money, usually spells undisciplined person".  Therefore, if one notices how his hard-earned money seems to slip away so darned easy, then it is about time that he rethinks his ways and try to discipline his unpleasant spending habits.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of the essential keys to successful money management, specifically saving money is to possess proper attitude.  Self-discipline is at the topmost of this proper attitudes list, of course.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Only with self-discipline that people recognize that they do have the freedom and power to do the right thing over doing as their impulses dictate.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sounds complicated?  Well, not really.  Knowing fully the fantastic rewards of disciplined money in a disciplined person's hands should be motivation enough for one to do all that is humanly possible to achieve that elusive financial stability everyone hopes for.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some helpful money saving tips.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.  Realize that the most convenient method of building one's wealth is through saving money.  Money is the only sensible material to save.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.  Focus expenditures on the things one needs.  Live day-by-day knowing that you have enough.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3.  Avoid buying on impulse. Take your time when buying, especially the expensive items.  If you really need it, it would most definitely not slip your mind.  Otherwise, if you go along forgetting all about it, then it isn't really worth the money you have to spend on it at all.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.  Credit card debts hold the number one slot as the cause for financial drains these days.  Control your spending by using your credit cards less.  Or for unavoidable circumstances when you really have to use the credit card, consider using the ones that charge less interest.  Then dump the high interest ones for good.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;No matter how you look at it, saving money is so easy to do.  A little bit of imagination, some creativity and a lot of self-discipline will take you a long way in keeping hold of your hard-earned money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3730115860108078917?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3730115860108078917/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3730115860108078917' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3730115860108078917'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3730115860108078917'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/03/saving-money-through-self-discipline.html' title='Saving Money Through Self-Discipline'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5482050244450461472</id><published>2011-02-21T07:16:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2011-02-21T07:17:33.020-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to invest'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Investments'/><title type='text'>Investing for Retirement – Save Now While You Can</title><content type='html'>Retirement may be a long way off for you – or it might be right around the corner. No matter how near or far it is, you’ve absolutely got to start saving for it now. However, saving for retirement isn’t what it used to be with the increase in cost of living and the instability of social security. You have to invest for your retirement, as opposed to saving for it!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Let’s start by taking a look at the retirement plan offered by your company. Once upon a time, these plans were quite sound. However, after the Enron upset and all that followed, people aren’t as secure in their company retirement plans anymore. If you choose not to invest in your company’s retirement plan, you do have other options.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;First, you can invest in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, certificates of deposit, and money market accounts. You do not have to state to anybody that the returns on these investments are to be used for retirement. Just simply let your money grow overtime, and when certain investments reach their maturity, reinvest them and continue to let your money grow. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You can also open an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). IRA’s are quite popular because the money is not taxed until you withdraw the funds. You may also be able to deduct your IRA contributions from the taxes that you owe. An IRA can be opened at most banks. A ROTH IRA is a newer type of retirement account. With a Roth, you pay taxes on the money that you are investing in your account, but when you cash out, no federal taxes are owed. Roth IRA’s can also be opened at a financial institution.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another popular type of retirement account is the 401(k). 401(k’s) are typically offered through employers, but you may be able to open a 401(k) on your own. You should speak with a financial planner or accountant to help you with this. The Keogh plan is another type of IRA that is suitable for self employed people. Self-employed small business owners may also be interested in Simplified Employee Pension Plans (SEP). This is another type of Keogh plan that people typically find easier to administer than a regular Keogh plan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whichever retirement investment you choose, just make sure you choose one! Again, do not depend on social security, company retirement plans, or even an inheritance that may or may not come through! Take care of your financial future by investing in it today.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5482050244450461472?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5482050244450461472/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5482050244450461472' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5482050244450461472'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5482050244450461472'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/02/investing-for-retirement-save-now-while.html' title='Investing for Retirement – Save Now While You Can'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1021666534211966251</id><published>2011-02-01T06:42:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2011-02-01T06:43:07.147-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Eating Well While Saving Money</title><content type='html'>Thinking of cutting down your expenses on food? Then you should read the following tips. They will surely help you on reducing your food expenses. They are by no means comprehensive but they will be very useful. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For coffee drinkers&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is a good idea to re-use the grounded coffee once. Using coffee grounds two times will not greatly affect the taste of the coffee. It is highly encouraged to do this using a filter that is permanent and avoid the paper variety. Keep the grounds refrigerated until using it the following day. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For bread lovers&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Grocery stores sell bread that was made the day before at a much lower price. There is nothing wrong with eating bread that was made the day before since it still is good to eat. If you have a lot of space in your refrigerator, store a lot for bigger savings. If you will eat the bread, you can defrost it using your microwave oven. Re-heat it every 30 seconds to prevent the edges of the bread from getting too hard.    &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When buying from the grocery&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Before going to the grocery, you should have already made a list of all the things that you really need. Prioritize basic goods and avoid buying things that you do not really need. Observe the prices indicated on the displays. Remember, branded products cost considerably more than store brands. It is also a good idea to keep the receipt of your previous trip to the grocery and make it as a basis for your purchases on your next trip. To have higher savings, buy more of the product. You can always store it in your refrigerator or in the house to minimize your trips to the grocery store.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When eating outside&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are going to eat in a pricey restaurant, the best time for you to go there would be during lunch. Food during lunch usually costs less and this will be to your advantage. When staying at the hotel on your trips, it is a good idea to check if they also include breakfast in your total room charge. You should also find out where the locals eat. Chances are, they will eat where the food is great and the price is even better. When going around, carry with you some snacks. A chocolate bar, chips, and cookies will go a long way while strolling around. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Eating cheaply does not necessarily mean eating bad food. Look around and you will be surprised at the options you can choose from. Take time and consider your choices so that you will not only eat a lot but save some money also.        &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the &lt;br /&gt;Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for &lt;br /&gt;you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and &lt;br /&gt;receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a &lt;br /&gt;href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/fina&lt;br /&gt;nce.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1021666534211966251?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1021666534211966251/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1021666534211966251' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1021666534211966251'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1021666534211966251'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/02/eating-well-while-saving-money.html' title='Eating Well While Saving Money'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1357993557150826337</id><published>2011-01-27T07:03:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2011-01-27T07:04:15.368-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Saving Money: It's Your Future, Live It Your Way</title><content type='html'>Are you tired of stressing out over never having money when you really need it? Well that is what saving is for. If you want to live comfortably in the future you really need to start by doing something about it now. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving has always been a way of life for people who believed on its power. These people know that they have to save more money in order to create a more established future.&lt;br /&gt; However, as time goes by, more and more people find it hard to save money. They contend that saving is no longer a way of life but a resolution that they have to strictly adhere to just to salt away some amount of money. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some people even insist that it is no longer possible for a person to save more money because most of them are already living paycheck to paycheck. With all the high-prices of commodities these days, saving more money is no longer workable.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the point is that people can indeed save more. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How? Here is a list of some modern ways that will let you save more money:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Save some percentage from your salary&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most money-savers automatically take at least 30% from their salary and save them into their savings account. The basic concept here is that most of us spend whatever amount we have on our paycheck, and maybe even more. If you are able to limit that amount, your expenses will unexplainably get smaller.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Pay everything in cash&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Credit cards had always been a way of life for most consumers. The problem is that they become so comfortable with it that they tend to spend everything on credit. In fact, statistics show that the average family has an average outstanding balance on their credit cards amounting to $7,000. And they even pay almost $1,000 in each year just on the interest charges alone.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hence, because of this comfortable shopping, they forget to keep track of their expenses and accumulate more payables than what they can afford to pay.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Set goals&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Create goals that you really want and not be fickle-minded about it. If there's a certain amount involved, be specific with the amount, like saying “I will save $5,000 in a year and not around $5,000.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Try to set your goals based on your priorities. Have a period for every goal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Check your company's retirement plan&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With your employer plan such as the 401(k) or the 403(b), you can definitely save more money for the future. Here, your company will deduct a percentage of your salary from each paycheck and invest the amount in your choice of instrumentsmainly mutual funds.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The bottom line is that saving is not just a way of life or a resolution. It's the ultimate gratification that you get as a fruit of your labor. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is never too late to start, so start today and stop your worry about tomorrow.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1357993557150826337?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1357993557150826337/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1357993557150826337' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1357993557150826337'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1357993557150826337'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/01/saving-money-its-your-future-live-it.html' title='Saving Money: It&apos;s Your Future, Live It Your Way'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3437369981798519404</id><published>2011-01-17T09:11:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2011-01-17T09:12:18.091-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>New Year, New Beginnings – Getting Control Of Your Life</title><content type='html'>Ah yes the new year is upon us and we all take the time to reflect back upon the past year. All our triumphs, all our defeats, all our dreams, goals, aspirations met and unmet are brought to mind. We sit back and ponder the changes we want to make in the upcoming year and  boldly make our resolutions and plans to make the current year even better (or at least no worse) than the previous one. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of course this being the first year in a new decade it makes it even more of a reflective time. We wonder where did all that time go? Wasn't it just yesterday that we were ringing in a new millennium? Time does pass so quickly when you are too busy to notice it. In fact if your are like most people you are too busy making a living to make a life.  What ever happened to that bliss we once knew in childhood?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We end up killing ourselves by stressing ourselves out. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Oh we are too busy, there's this function and that function we must attend because we want to be seen by the right people. Oh what will the neighbors/co-workers/social status seekers/, think if I don't? Will I be considered uncool or left off the “A-List” if I don't run around all the time like a chicken without a head?  But how can I prove I am the ideal person if I don't act/do/speak like the cool people on TV or in the movies?  I must spend because if I don't have the latest fashions/car/biggest house/newest gadgets the “cool” people won't think I'm one of them. How am I supposed to impress everyone if I am wearing last season's clothes?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We run around filling our lives with empty meaningless garbage. Whether it is spending too much time playing on Social Media, or drinking one's life away at a club, or taking drugs, over exercising,  empty sex (not the kind you have in a deep meaningful relationship between two lovers), or filling the time with soul  destroying  useless fake “Reality TV Shows”. Gotta update the Facebook Page. Don't forget to Tweet. What's on TV? Oh another fake “Reality Show?”, Oh goody.  Oh gotta have that latest phone, and car. Oh well since life is too empty and pointless, might as well share the pain with these losers. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We are definitely the masters at wasting time, money and our lives. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Then you hear people complain about having too much to do and no time to do anything. We just stress ourselves out with these useless activities.  Let's not even talk about money shall we? Martyring oneself seems to be the latest hobby.  What it does is nothing more than an ego boost for the self centered. Let's face it the person complaining is trying to fill their emptiness with self pity, and looking for you to tell them what a great person they are, when in fact they are nothing but a empty shell of a loser. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There is a line from an old song  that went:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;“We work all our life, but work is a bore, if life is for living, what's living for?”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you find yourself complaining about not having time, not getting enough sleep, not enjoying yourself or your life, well time now to stop. Yes stop the complaining, stop the running around. Stop the empty useless activities and take stock of your life. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Limit your time on the time wasting activities. Do you really need to Tweet everything?  Sure Facebook is great for getting in touch with old friends, but do you really need to spend hours updating your status?  Do you really need to drink and socialize every night? Every Week? Do those screaming banshees on reality TV really mean that much to you? Do you really need to spend so much on drink/clothes/shoes/toys? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The answer is no and the power to stop the stress in in you. The power to get control of your life is in your hands. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Like Facebook and the Internet? Going to the Gym everyday? Meeting with your book/movie/social club? Great, there is nothing wrong with spending some time on those activities, to get control you just need to schedule your time and stick to your schedule. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you really need the most expensive shoes or dresses or suits? There are just as nice ones for a lot less money and they all look the same. Do you have to have a new car every year? They tend to last at least 5 years these days. What is wrong with the old phone? Skip a cycle or two it won't hurt, I promise.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What you really need to do is just sit down, relax and find your real priorities.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Reflect on what it is you are accomplishing with each of your daily activities. Look at how you are spending your money. Make a list of all the activities you are doing every day, as well as what you are spending your money on,  and you will be amazed at what you can cut out. It doesn't matter if we are talking finances or time, budgeting is the key to reducing all the stress in your life. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Once you get control of your finances and your time you will once again have full control of your life. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Once you get control of your life, you will find that bliss you had as a child.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3437369981798519404?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3437369981798519404/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3437369981798519404' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3437369981798519404'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3437369981798519404'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-beginnings-getting-control.html' title='New Year, New Beginnings – Getting Control Of Your Life'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-418891255147652070</id><published>2010-12-14T04:57:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-12-14T04:58:47.550-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><title type='text'>Giving and Spreading Joy Without Breaking The Bank.</title><content type='html'>Yes the Holiday Season is upon us and everyone is in good cheer and merriment abounds. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yet here we are assaulted by Specials and commercial messages that tell us we need to spend, spend, spend to make our loved ones love us back. Materialism is the message of the advertisers and if they are to be believed (NOT!) that is the meaning of the season. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ah but intelligent people know better, but still we are ingrained that the season does require the exchanging or giving of gifts, no matter which Holiday you are celebrating (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus). And of course one must give in order to receive.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ah but what do good budget conscience people do when money is tight or not in abundance? Well that is what thrift shops and flea markets are for. Yes if you are smart and discerning you can find wonderful gifts at places like the goodwill, Salvation Army and other similar stores. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most of these stores I have gone through have aisles and aisles of toys, electronics, books, and knick knacks to rival any boutique one finds in the malls. Depending upon the area you live, there are usually dozens of sports related memorabilia from Jerseys, hats all the way to clocks and videos of one's favorite teams. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Baby clothes are another item that is in abundance and one can find a wonderful selection, just take care and a god look as sometimes things get by with nasty stains. But usually those items are rejected at the inspection phase before making it out to the sales floor.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is amazing how many rare books I have come across in my ventures. One of my favorites is a History of World War I published in 1919, a year after the war was over. It included commentary from General Pershing, and a few other dignitaries of the day. Of course the language used to describe the vanquished nations was a bit harsh, but it reflected the feelings of the age. It always fascinates me to read old books and I get a good laugh at the peculiarities of the language and thoughts of the times (I am sure someone in the future is going to be repeating this about the foolishness of our beliefs and political/editorial writings as well).&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Other great items I have found include old videos, cassettes, LP's and CD's that have enhanced my collections. If you have a person on your list that is into these it is amazing the treasure store of classic media that awaits. Of course you might have to go to the electronics section and pick up a VCR, Record Player or Cassette tape player to go along, but it will be worth it to see the joy in their faces of a memory long forgotten revealed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Camera buffs will also be amazed at what ends up in these stores. I have a nice collection of old cameras and other photography equipment that still work (but finding film for a Kodak Brownie is difficult) and are basically collectors items. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Computer equipment is another matter, and usually the monitors and boxes are obsolete and unless someone is a die hard collector, or a nostalgic gamer, they are pretty much not worth anything. However one can still get a decent smaller printer for those occasional letters etc. Heck I have an older Okidata Laser printer that I picked up for $10 that still works beautifully. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One thing to be wary of, if not avoided) is Women's Clothing. The speed at which women's fashions go out of style is mind boggling, and unless you find a rare coat or hat that your loved one has been pining for and can't be found anymore, then I would avoid it like the plague.&lt;br /&gt;All in all Holiday Shopping doesn't have to break one's budget if done right and one shop's smart. One can save money without being a “Scrooge” and still be a hero on the appointed day of gift giving. Oh and while you're at it you just might find something special for yourself as a reward for your intelligence and generosity.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So get out there and remember, it's not what you buy, but how you buy it that counts.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-418891255147652070?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/418891255147652070/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=418891255147652070' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/418891255147652070'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/418891255147652070'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/12/giving-and-spreading-joy-without.html' title='Giving and Spreading Joy Without Breaking The Bank.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-9188950057632260195</id><published>2010-11-23T08:00:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-11-23T08:01:06.610-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Better Budgeting</title><content type='html'>The talking heads from the financial media are telling us the economy is improving. However we all know that on the street level things are still a bit tight. So with the holidays nearing and the new year almost upon us, one should really sit down and figure out their personal financial situation and make sure the ends meet. That is where having and keeping to a good budget is helpful.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A budget is basically a money plan, outlining your financial goals. Having a budget, you can well establish and regulate funds, set and achieve your financial objectives, and make advance decisions as to how you want your finances to function well for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The main idea in budgeting is for you to put aside a certain amount of money for expected as well as unexpected costs.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Simply put, budgeting means an estimation of monthly home expenses basing it on previous expenses and bills. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The initial step to take in budgeting is to find out how long will your compensation last. Define fixed expenses like car payments, home rental, insurance, etc. Likewise follow up your expenditures thoroughly for a month so you can discover and understand where your funds are going. Through proper determination of your “spending patterns”, you can immediately identify solutions for effective budgeting. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For instance, when you have a steady monthly income of $4,000, you should subtract all your identified monthly bills from that income. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Other bills can be assessed and then subtracted from the amount of your income. The balance that remained after fixed costs can now be your budget in the household. Rather than allocating money for miscellaneous like gas, clothing, entertainment and groceries, financial planning will allow you instead to use proportions or percentages of it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The strategic solution in order for budgeting to be successful is inflexibility as well as flexibility; there are fixed expenses so payment must be an inflexible factor. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Budgeting will best work when very scarce omissions are made to greater limits. The idea here is to formulate goals and plans, then abide by it as much as you possibly can.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are tips on how to budget:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Have good sense of money management.  Your attitude is essential. Reach an agreement and compromise and know the significance of reducing expenditures; it all involves a lot of sacrifice. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Plan your situation. Make a listing with your earnings to one side and your overheads on the other side. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Know the difference between luxuries and necessities. List down what you believe as luxuries, with it, split the list in half, crossing out half the list. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Practice frugality but with dignity. You can have fun with little or without spending at all. Rather than going shopping, play with the kids at the beach or at the park.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Budgeting is an effective and fundamental tool that is readily available to everyone.  Consider it, and benefit from it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the &lt;br /&gt;Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for &lt;br /&gt;you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and &lt;br /&gt;receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a &lt;br /&gt;href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/fina&lt;br /&gt;nce.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-9188950057632260195?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/9188950057632260195/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=9188950057632260195' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/9188950057632260195'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/9188950057632260195'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/11/inquisitive-explorers-guide-to-better.html' title='Inquisitive Explorer&apos;s Guide To Better Budgeting'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3300441349429901318</id><published>2010-11-09T06:56:00.001-08:00</published><updated>2010-11-09T06:56:56.968-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Debt Free'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='f'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><title type='text'>How to Choose The Right Credit Card Offer</title><content type='html'>The World is definitely on its way to a cashless economy. Sure “Cash may be King” as they say, and there is always the old checkbook, but more and more credit cards are the preferred method of payment. First of all because of the uncertainty of the massive fraud done by unscrupulous people writing bad checks, one needs a credit card to make purchases that one used to be able to use checks. Also many retailers don't want the hassle of dealing with employee or outsiders theft of cash, that they would prefer plastic over paper. So one needs to get a credit card.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But with so many credit card offers, what is one to know what to do?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just browse through the daily newspaper and you will be overwhelmed by the number of credit card offers advertised. Move around the town and you will find credit card offers being advertised everywhere. Same is the case is with television which seems to host a number of credit card offers too. So, the credit card offers are there everywhere. Why are there so many credit card offers? Well, quite simply because credit card business is a highly profitable business for the credit card suppliers.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In this situation, when there is no dearth of credit card offers, which is the best credit card offer?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There is nothing like a best credit card offer, really. A better question to ask would be “Which credit card offer is the best for me?” The spending habits of one person are different from that of another person. Their living styles vary and hence their needs vary too. So for deciding on which credit card offer is best for you, you need to evaluate your needs vis-à-vis your lifestyle and your spending habits (and not go just by the recommendation of someone). &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For example, if you frequently travel by air, a co-branded airline credit card might be more suited to you than the general purpose one. These airline credit cards offer discounts, rebates and other kind of rewards when the credit card is used for making payments (the rewards are even higher when these credit cards are used for paying for the airline tickets or other airline products). &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Similarly, if you have a favorite retail store where you do a lot of your shopping, it would be beneficial to check if the retailer is a credit card supplier too and if there is a credit card offer that suits you. A lot of big retail chains do offer co-branded credit cards to their customers and these credit cards offer rebates/discounts etc when they are used for making payments at the retail store. As such, you get reward points for making payments at any place but the rewards are higher on the payments made at retail store.  On similar lines, we have credit cards for gas stations and grocery stores too, which you can opt for if you have a favorite gas station or a favorite grocery store where you shop a lot.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, if you look around, you will find a lot of lucrative credit card offers. However, this doesn't mean that you enroll for all the credit card offers. You need to first evaluate your needs and rank them. Then you need to evaluate what all credit card offers suit your needs. And finally you can make your choice and go for a credit card offer that covers most of your needs and gives maximum benefits.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3300441349429901318?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3300441349429901318/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3300441349429901318' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3300441349429901318'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3300441349429901318'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/11/how-to-choose-right-credit-card-offer.html' title='How to Choose The Right Credit Card Offer'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3565733599823626601</id><published>2010-10-20T08:28:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-10-20T08:29:39.236-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Save Money and Avoid Temptations</title><content type='html'>Okay so you decided to make a budget and are determined to keep to it. But all of a sudden out of nowhere comes that fantastic new smart phone, or maybe a new designer dress, or some other item that you feel you just “can't live without”! That folks is where people get in trouble when trying to keep to a budget, those tricksters that tempt us out of the blue. Well here's some tips on how to avoid those temptations and save money for what you really need.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving money and financial management is very crucial in one's life. Money is very important in order to survive in this world but only a few people know how to manage their household budget properly. Many people have a hard time saving money even if it is for their own good.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most of the time, you may be motivated to save money but there are times when temptations come your way and before you know it, you have already spent the amount that was supposed to be added to your savings account. Here are some helpful tips on how you can avoid temptations and be able to save money:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Try hard to avoid those things that keep you from saving. If you are fond of buying shoes even if you don't really need them, try very hard to stay away from them. Keep yourself away from shoe stores so that you will not be tempted to buy one. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. When going to grocery stores. Always bring the exact amount and bring with you a grocery list. If you have limited money in your pocket when in grocery stores, you will be forced to buy only those important things that you need. Preparing a grocery list will also help you get organized and will help you in deciding the things that need to be prioritized.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Go to the malls only when needed. Do not go shopping if you do not need anything important to buy. Window-shopping will only tempt you to buy the dress you saw in the boutique even if you don't really need it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Do not bring with you your credit cards all the time. Having a credit card in your pocket will only tempt you to buy things that are not necessary. This will also help you lower your balances and have a good credit score.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. You may want to save money in the bank or invest in time deposits. You will not be tempted to get money from the bank every time you need cash, if they are placed in a time deposit account. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. You may also want to consider consulting a financial advisor. There are a lot of programs that offer these services for free. They may be able to help you and give you advice on how you can avoid temptations and save more money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3565733599823626601?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3565733599823626601/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3565733599823626601' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3565733599823626601'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3565733599823626601'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/10/save-money-and-avoid-temptations.html' title='Save Money and Avoid Temptations'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2060120242893385873</id><published>2010-10-04T09:56:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-10-04T09:58:07.299-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Mortgages'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Using A Mortgage Calculator: Don't Do the Math Yourself</title><content type='html'>The residential real estate and housing crises have bottomed out and are starting to rebound. The economy is starting to come around and people are once again, albeit slowly, to buying houses. This means getting a mortgage. If you are in the market and don't want to get caught up in the problems of overextending yourself, or to see if you are getting the best deal you should consider using a Mortgage Calculator. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When considering a mortgage loan, knowing how much money you have and will have  and how much you are willing to pay for the loan including the interest and principal is very, very important. To help you decide on projecting how much you will be paying bi-weekly or monthly, depending on the payment term you choose for the entire loan period of your mortgage, various mortgage calculators are available.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These mortgage calculators are categorized into 15 classifications depending on the type of mortgage you want and the terms in interests and principal you want to apply. These classifications for mortgage calculators are the following:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;a. Mortgage calculator to determine a borrowers ability to afford a house. This type of calculator can be classified into two. There is a mortgage calculator that determines if a borrower can afford a house and mortgage calculator to help the borrower determine if it is better for him to make a small down payment or no down payment at all or save up first, then make a bigger down payment later on.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;b. Mortgage calculator for consolidating non-mortgage debt. There are three types of calculators under these. The first one is used for borrowers who want to consider merging non-mortgage debt in their bought mortgage. The second type of mortgage calculator is for those who want to consider refinancing their mortgage by cash-out or by taking another mortgage. The third kind is for borrowers who already have 2 mortgages for a particular loan and are considering other options to help pay off the 1st mortgage.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;c. Mortgage calculator to determine the monthly payments of their mortgage. The types of mortgage calculator to be used  will depend on the terms you choose. There is a mortgage calculator for fixed rate mortgages, adjustable rate mortgages without negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with negative amortizations, adjustable rate mortgages with flexible amortizations and mortgage payments with temporary buy downs.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;d. Mortgage calculator to determine how much interest borrowers can save should he decide to pay an additional amount for the principal value during payment. The mortgage calculator varies depending on the number of payments a borrower is willing to give. These are extra monthly payments, bi-weekly payments applied monthly, bi-weekly payments applied bi-weekly and extra monthly payments to be paid in a specific period.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;e. Mortgage calculator to determine if refinancing a mortgage will reduce its cost. This type of mortgage calculator can be applied to a borrower who wants to refinance a mortgage or 2 mortgages. Other calculators are used to determine if refinancing one mortgage into two can reduce costs while others are used to determine if cash-out refinancing is better than deciding to take on a second mortgage.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;f. Mortgage calculator for determining the length of time borrowers have to pay insurance premiums applied to their mortgage. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;g. Mortgage calculator to determine amortizations. There are 2 kinds of these. One determines the savings a borrower can have on his tax on the interests and the second mortgage calculator determines the appreciation of property being mortgaged.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;h. Mortgage calculator to compare two mortgages. These are different types of calculators that compare the various mortgages that include amortizations and non-amortizations, government and non-government loans, fixed rate and adjustable interests.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;i. Mortgage calculator to compute points and fees in a mortgage. The calculator is used to determine the rate of return of ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) and FRMs (Flexible Rate Mortgages) and the amount that can be saved or lost by using paying points for interest reduction on FRMs.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;j. Mortgage calculator for determining amounts to be paid for a mortgage insurance and down payment  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;k. Mortgage calculator to determine the feasibility of  having a mortgage loan in a shorter term.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These mortgage calculators and other various mortgage calculators are available for use in the Internet. Most banks and mortgage companies have interactive pages in their websites where you can do your calculations online. Aside from these, other sites give free downloads of their loan calculators.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2060120242893385873?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2060120242893385873/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2060120242893385873' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2060120242893385873'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2060120242893385873'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/10/using-mortgage-calculator-dont-do-math.html' title='Using A Mortgage Calculator: Don&apos;t Do the Math Yourself'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-7100555713608145023</id><published>2010-09-30T07:47:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-09-30T07:48:26.123-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>How To Reduce Your Credit Card Debt</title><content type='html'>Here we are heading towards the holiday season and people are starting to plan out their shopping a bit early this year due to the economic conditions. But before one starts building up more credit card debts, one should look to where they are and if they need to , reduce any credit card debt they already have. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Reduce credit card debt and eliminate it before it assumes a horrifying shape. This is really the gist of the story. So, how do you reduce credit card debt? Well, you reduce credit card debt by preventing it from increasing and by paying off what it is currently. Simple, isn't it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Not really. If it was that simple to reduce credit card debt, then we wouldn't have had so many people with credit card debt related problems. We would have been able to reduce credit card debt problems and finally eliminate them (or reduce them significantly). There are all kinds of advice available on how to reduce credit card debt, but still nothing much seems to change. The problem still seems to persist and in fact, worsen. However, it's not that difficult to reduce credit card debt. As we just said, there is a lot of advice available on how to reduce credit card debt and the only thing you need to do is put that advice, on how to reduce credit card debt, to practice in real life. Well, no one but you will benefit if you reduce credit card debt. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So the first step to reduce credit card debt is to prevent it from taking dangerous proportions. The 2 most important ways of implementing this step are; balance transfers and use of cash. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Balance transfer is often treated as the number one measure to reduce credit card debt. This is really something that can help reduce credit card debt by slowing down the pace at which your credit card debt is getting built. It also provides you relief in terms of the APR being 0% for initial 6-9 months (and hence helps reduce credit card debt faster). To reduce credit card debt using this mechanism, you need to transfer your balance from your current credit card(s) onto another credit card that has a lower APR than your current card. Thus you reduce credit card debt by preventing it from increasing so rapidly. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The other preventive measure to reduce credit card debt is to use cash instead of card (as such, hard earned cash is difficult to get out of pocket as compared to just a credit card). So you reduce credit card debt by not adding more to it. That is the simplest way to reduce credit card debt.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, you can reduce credit card debt only if you stick to your resolution to reduce credit card debt; otherwise it will fail miserably.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-7100555713608145023?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/7100555713608145023/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=7100555713608145023' title='1 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7100555713608145023'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7100555713608145023'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-reduce-your-credit-card-debt.html' title='How To Reduce Your Credit Card Debt'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>1</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8637219730235179106</id><published>2010-09-21T08:31:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2010-09-21T08:31:59.577-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='missing money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><title type='text'>Claiming State Held Missing Money that Belongs to You</title><content type='html'>According to Missingmoney.com, within the United States alone, billions of dollars of unclaimed missing money is collecting dust in state Abandoned Property offices. If extrapolated to include the funds held world wide by similar organizations in other countries, the sum of unclaimed missing money could exceed $500 billion dollars. Hmmmm, that's almost enough to bail the economic community out of its current financial debacle.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every day, for various reasons, People move away and do not update their address, they lose track of some of their investments, they die without a will, and who knows why else...but, they leave money in banks, in utility accounts, security deposits, and many number of other ways. Some of these monetary items end up in the state's possessions after they are declared abandoned by the organization or financial institution that held them. These forgotten bank accounts, un-cashed stock dividends, insurance payments, safe deposit box contents, utility deposits, travelers checks, money orders and other financial instruments are turned over to the state's Treasurer's Escheats, Comptroller's, or Revenue office who then try to track down the owners and return the money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;By the amount of unclaimed and missing money on record, it appears these state offices are under staffed and not very successful in locating the owner's of the missing money. All 50 states have a Department of Revenue and Unclaimed Property or some similarly named division. This is the office responsible for maintaining the missing money and processing claims for it. Some states have limitations on how long they keep abandoned property before turning it over to state coffers; however they most keep it indefinitely. Some states even pay interest on the money if the property was originally an interest bearing instrument. You must check with your individual state and find out what their procedures are.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you think you may have missing money held by your state, your first step is to contact the correct state agency to find out whether your name, or in the case it is the estate of a deceased individual, their name is on the list. Each state maintains a publicly available list of abandoned property holdings. If you or the person you represent is on the list your next step is to file a claim and return the form with the required identification or proof of ownership. Requirements for proving ownership vary from state to state, based on the amount of the claim and other factors. Acceptable identification many include copies of driver's licenses, receipts, social security cards and numbers, bank account numbers, savings passbooks, checking account and bank statements, or other notarized documents.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It has been speculated that ten percent of the U.S. population is owned money from abandoned property and missing money coffers. The state departments do not have the resources to investigate every case; therefore much of it goes unclaimed. There are professional finders, or heir searchers who locate the owners of missing money and charge a fee or commission in exchange. Professional finder's of missing money generally limit their activity to large estate findings. Be careful if you enlist a professional service to locate your potential missing money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are billions of dollars in unclaimed property and missing money sitting in your state coffers. There is a good chance that some of it belongs to you. You, your neighbors, relatives, co-workers, friend, and many many others have an interest in what happens to all of this missing money. Are you going to stake your claim or be a loser because you failed to take advantage of the services that your state offers? Are you going to claim your missing money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Need to find missing money? Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8637219730235179106?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8637219730235179106/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8637219730235179106' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8637219730235179106'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8637219730235179106'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/09/claiming-state-held-missing-money-that.html' title='Claiming State Held Missing Money that Belongs to You'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5426054670623421107</id><published>2010-09-14T08:34:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-09-14T08:35:23.796-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='live good'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investment'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to invest'/><title type='text'>Investing Basics – Determining Your Investment Goals</title><content type='html'>The stock market is starting to turn to the positive after being down for the last year and a half. That means it is time to start thinking about getting back in and getting your fortune abck on track. Bit before you start investing, or reinvesting, you need to ask yourself the most important question:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What are my investing goals?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to investing, many first time investors want to jump right in with both feet.   Unfortunately, very few of those investors are successful. Investing in anything requires some degree of skill. It is important to remember that few investments are a sure thing – there is the risk of losing your money!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Before you jump right in, it is better to not only find out more about investing and how it all works, but also to determine what your goals are. What do you hope to achieve with your investments? Will you be funding a college education? Buying a home? Retiring? Before you invest a single penny, really think about what you hope to achieve with that investment. Knowing what your goal is will help you make smarter investment decisions along the way!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Too often, people invest money with dreams of becoming rich overnight. This is possible – but it is also rare. It is usually a very bad idea to start investing with hopes of becoming rich overnight. It is safer to invest your money in such a way that it will grow slowly over time, and be used for retirement or a child’s education. However, if your investment goal is to get rich quick, you should learn as much about high-yield, short term investing as you possibly can before you invest.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You should strongly consider talking to a financial planner before making any investments. Your financial planner can help you determine what type of investing you must do to reach the financial goals that you have set. He or she can give you realistic information as to what kind of returns you can expect and how long it will take to reach your specific goals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Again, remember that investing requires more than calling a broker and telling them that you want to buy stocks or bonds. It takes a certain amount of research and knowledge about the market if you hope to invest successfully.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5426054670623421107?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5426054670623421107/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5426054670623421107' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5426054670623421107'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5426054670623421107'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/09/investing-basics-determining-your.html' title='Investing Basics – Determining Your Investment Goals'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1844244308543667087</id><published>2010-09-07T08:16:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-09-07T08:18:03.978-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='online trading'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='stocks'/><title type='text'>Get Started With Online Trading</title><content type='html'>After a turbulent year, the Stock Market is getting back on track and moving in the right direction again. So more people are starting to inch their way back into the market and most are deciding to use an online broker and do their investing over the Internet. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Now we all know that the the Internet has brought about many changes in the way that we conduct our lives and our personal business. We can pay our bills online, shop online, bank online, and even date online!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We can even buy and sell stocks online. Traders love having the ability to look at their accounts whenever they want to, and brokers like having the ability to take orders over the Internet, as opposed to the telephone. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most brokers and brokerage houses now offer online trading to their clients. Another great thing about trading online is that fees and commissions are often lower. While online trading is great, there are some drawbacks. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are new to investing, having the ability to actually speak with a broker can be quite beneficial. If you aren't stock market savvy, online trading may be a dangerous thing for you. If this is the case, make sure that you learn as much as you can about trading stocks before you start trading online. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Even with a good smartphone and the right apps, you should also be aware that you can't always have a computer, or other device with the available access attached to you. You won't always have the ability to get online to make a trade. You need to be sure that you can call and speak with a broker if this is the case, using the online broker. This is true whether you are an advanced trader or a beginner. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is also a good idea to go with an online brokerage company that has been around for a while. You won't find one that has been in business for fifty years of course, but you can find a company that has been in business that long and now offers online trading.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Again, online trading is a beautiful thing , but it isn't for everyone. Think carefully before you decide to do your trading online, and make sure that you really know what you are doing!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1844244308543667087?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1844244308543667087/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1844244308543667087' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1844244308543667087'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1844244308543667087'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/09/get-started-with-online-trading.html' title='Get Started With Online Trading'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5879178441320845487</id><published>2010-08-16T07:43:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-08-16T07:44:48.315-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='back to school'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money on school supplies'/><title type='text'>Cutting Schooling Costs  Without Hurting Your Kids</title><content type='html'>Ah yes it's the middle of August and the time is here for parents and kids to start thinking about the new school year.  It seems every year school related costs keep going up and parents are struggling to keep up with the additional expenses. Clothes and school supplies are one of the biggest expense they face each year.  Here are some ideas to help you cut some of the school related costs without hurting oyur kids chance at a quality education.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whenever the school season is just around the corner, there's only one thing that parents are thinking about - the impending costs. Education is a primary right and a pertinent need of every child but it can become very costly. Availing of scholarships and education grants for your children is the best way to get them through schooling. But of course, only a small percentage of children can be given these privileges. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are simple and effective measures that parents can employ in cutting the costs of their children's schooling, especially during the back-to-school season. Most often, these measures are often taken for granted, but don't miss out!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Organize and Save&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keep an inventory of your children's school supplies and keep it organized. If you are not organized, you will be spending more money on replenishing your supplies. Small things like pencils and crayons may not cost too much, but if you replenish your supplies unnecessarily, you are losing valuable money.&lt;br /&gt; Look for sales and coupons and buy the supplies that are consumed and needed every year, (pens, notebooks, paper), on sale as much as possible. Just look to the newspapers for your local ads. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You should also try involving the kids when making the inventory. This will give them a sense of ownership for their things and would know where to take and put their things.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Tax Holidays&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Tax holidays are often offered by many states during the back-to-school season.  Price ceilings will be put on different school gears. You might want to do a little research and ask about the schedule and the details of the tax holidays in your area.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bulk Buying&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It's a basic economic principle - "the more you buy, the more you save". Well, this is applicable if you are buying a specific item which you will really need in the near future. In buying pencils, for example, you might want to buy a box rather than buying one for each of your kids. Face it, you will be needing to replenish these after some time, so might as well avail of the lower price by buying in bulk.&lt;br /&gt; Even the “Dollar Stores” offer deals on many of the commodity items without sacrificing quality. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Transportation&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You might want to consider buying your child a bicycle for him to bring to school. This, of course, is not always feasible. Finding a cheap and safe way to bring your children to school daily is an important thing. Car pools and school transportation services are options that you can look at.&lt;br /&gt;Snacks&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whenever you have the time and energy to prepare food for your children, do so. You will not only be saving on the pocket money that you will give to them but you are also secured that your children are eating healthy and safe meals.  You also teach your children good eating habits early on in life.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Getting your children through school is a hard task and a costly one. Saving money through practical and simple means can assist you in this endeavor. The benefits will eventually add up to bring a brighter future to your children.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money? Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5879178441320845487?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5879178441320845487/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5879178441320845487' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5879178441320845487'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5879178441320845487'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/08/cutting-schooling-costs-without-hurting.html' title='Cutting Schooling Costs  Without Hurting Your Kids'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8053381519466225639</id><published>2010-07-25T11:04:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-07-25T11:05:30.506-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Save Money, Save the World</title><content type='html'>Even though the financial press and some politicians are trying to convince us that everything is fine, most of us are still hurting from the economic mess from the last two years. Saving money is the game now if you really want to bank on a good future for you and your family. By budgeting properly you can insure your family has all it needs. And by making a few minor adjustments around your hme, you can save money and combat global warming/climate change as well.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is one definite way to ensure that you make yourself able and ready for whatever big plans you have ahead, be it getting a new house, buying a car, sending a kid to college or even a grand vacation.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many ways to save money. It can range from setting aside a portion of your monthly paycheck or avoiding the little temptations for you to spend. Make it your goal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Start at Your Own Home&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving money should be part of your way of life to make it most effective. It is best that the effort to save be shared by everyone in the family. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Little Efforts&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do not drive if you really don't have to. If you can, just take a walk or take the bus. Riding the bike can also be very good for your body. Have a car pool with friends or neighbors. You can also suggest doing errands together like doing the grocery store.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Avoid the little temptations that may come your way. It is naturally fine to reward yourself after a hard work every now and then, but do stay away from splurging. Cut back on your expenses. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Use Less and Save Energy  - Becoming and Eco-Super Hero With Little or No Effort!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Electricity - Turn off appliances that are not used. Turn the TV off if the show is not worth it. Close the refrigerator after getting what you need. Use lower wattage bulb for rooms that do not need much lighting. These will definitely add more data to your savings!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Water - Check for any leaks in your pipes. Always make sure that the faucet is not dripping. Avoid long showers. Use a glass when brushing your teeth instead of leaving the faucet on. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Phone -  Choose a provider that has savings plans especially for long-distance calls.  Or better yet check out Skype. It's free to call others who have Skype accounts online, and costs very little to make long distance calls to landlines and cell phones. Trust me, the quality is great.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gas - Have your car tuned up so you can save on gas. Get membership benefits also from stations. Fill up the tank when the prices go low. You can also do a research on gas saving cars if you have to purchase a new one. Turn off the air conditioning. If there is no need for that, simply keep the windows open. Enjoy the ride and the cool wind. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You may not realized this before, but your household's basic utilities can actually be your key to saving more money. This has a two-way benefit. You get to save some dollars for your family. You also contribute in addressing the energy crisis. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?  Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8053381519466225639?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8053381519466225639/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8053381519466225639' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8053381519466225639'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8053381519466225639'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/07/save-money-save-world.html' title='Save Money, Save the World'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1185609408354669610</id><published>2010-06-16T09:15:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-06-16T09:16:46.687-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>SAVING MONEY AT YOUR VACATION DESTINATION</title><content type='html'>The vacation season is upon us again and we are all looking for ways to travel in style without incurring a lot of unnecessary expenses. It is too easy to go over budget by ignoring the little things while traveling. Here are a couple of tips to assist you in staying on or even under budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When traveling independently you will almost always do better in terms of price and quality if you veer away from the traditional places to eat and shops that the guide books mention. Going off the beaten track can mean you pick up a real bargain. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Restaurants &lt;br /&gt;Follow the locals; if you head for a tourist orientated restaurant or shop you will find that the prices are substantially higher and often the food is not of the same quality. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another good tip is to visit the local market where the locals shop. Not only will you get fresh products at good prices but you will also enjoy the experience of mixing with the locals. Ask those around you where to go, after all, it is the locals that are best placed to tell you where to go for a good deal!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A good way of working out whether a restaurant is geared towards tourists or locals is to see when it is at its busiest. Tourists tend to eat a lot earlier than the locals in most foreign countries. Any restaurant that is empty until around 9pm and then fills up is probably frequented by locals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Car Rental&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to rental cars the costs can vary widely and it really pays to shop around. Sometimes you will be offered good deals as part of your hotel stay or airfare, consider these as combination deals will also be a lot cheaper than you could get on your own. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Booking car rental when you have reached your destination is normally cheaper than reserving in advance if you have not got a good combination deal.&lt;br /&gt;Make sure that you have suitable insurance, as any accident could make a huge dent in your holiday budget! There are good ways to save money, but insurance is not an area that you should scrimp on.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always select the smallest car that is suitable for your needs, this will be cheaper and will cost less in gas. There is also a reasonable chance that you will be upgraded for free. If you are feeling bold, it is worth asking at the counter if there is any chance of a free upgrade, you never know your luck!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are booking car hire from a distance, look at the costs of car hire from the airport as well as from the city that you are staying in. Car hire companies will pay more to have an airport franchise and you may find this reflected in the prices that you are quoted. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always fill up the gas before you get back to the car rental office. Car rental companies will charge well over the odds for any extra gas that they need to replace on your behalf so take the time to tank up before you get back if you do not want a large bill at the end.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1185609408354669610?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1185609408354669610/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1185609408354669610' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1185609408354669610'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1185609408354669610'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/06/saving-money-at-your-vacation.html' title='SAVING MONEY AT YOUR VACATION DESTINATION'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8783834526979743699</id><published>2010-06-02T08:41:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-06-02T08:42:24.724-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Lessen The Risks While Gambling</title><content type='html'>Summer time is here and that means a lot of us are traveling and taking vacations. Some of the more popular destinations are land and ship based casinos. While I have nothing against gambling, it can be a great source of entertainment, one still needs to be wary of the risks involved. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There is no foolproof way to always win when gambling. That is why it's called gambling, you take risks and reap the benefits when lady lucks sides by you, but this isn't always the case. Most of the time people end up being addicted, losing all that they've worked for all in the belief that gambling is the real get rich quick solution.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling is addictive; therefore there is no real risk-free solution. But a person can still continue gambling without really getting addicted or getting drastically affected.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;High risk gambling doesn't necessarily mean you spend a lot of money. Think of gambling as a form of entertainment. Like other ways to get yourself entertained, you sometimes spend nothing and sometimes a lot. Think of it as a play that you watch, except you participate in it actively. Therefore, low-risk gambling is essentially avoiding the mindset of losses, if you don't think you lost then you probably didn't.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Low risk gambling is essentially a mindset, not a drug, not a shrink; you can avoid gambling risks by thinking like a low risk gambler.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A low risk gambler knows that as time passes, most people will lose. The only party that wins in this gambling arena is the company that runs the casino.  Never expect to win back what you've invested as this can only set your mind to play and play until you realize that you don't have any money left to play anymore.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A low risk gambler should know that he is only playing for recreation, for entertainment, and like all forms of entertainment, gambling has a cost. By doing this, you don't recognize the losses as losses but rather expenditures. Just put it in your mind that the money you lost is the amount you pay for the entertainment, and don't necessarily have to be won back.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Low-risk gambling is social gambling. The gambling part should be done with friends, family and loved ones.  The presence of friends provides a content sensation that is very different from winning, and can help you focus away from winning. Gambling on your own can make it seem like a form of work, making it serious, letting you focus on losing rather than enjoyment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Low-Risk gambling should be limited, both in frequency and duration. If you're trying to lower offline gambling risk, you should be able to draft a timetable for yourself. Compulsive gambling should never be tolerated, and this may be a sign of a starting addiction.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8783834526979743699?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8783834526979743699/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8783834526979743699' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8783834526979743699'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8783834526979743699'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/06/lessen-risks-while-gambling.html' title='Lessen The Risks While Gambling'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4797635795703536017</id><published>2010-05-11T07:00:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-05-11T07:01:13.294-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY ON TRAVEL</title><content type='html'>The vacation season is almost upon us and during these tough times we are all looking for ways to save money when we travel. Sure we could always cut back and take smaller trips, but what if you don't want to compromise quality? Well here's a few tips that can help you save money while taking the vacation you desire.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As well as the usual ways to get a bargain flight or holiday, it is also important to consider other money saving tips for when you are actually traveling. Money saving tips while you are away should not be overlooked, as they can save you a substantial amount of money in the long run.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another issue that you should consider before booking is what potential specialist discounts you may be entitled to; for example, many agents offer discounts to students, seniors or individuals that are members of certain organizations may also be able to get better deals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to student travel you may find that the discounts are available for anyone aged 26 or under, regardless of whether they are actually students. If you are a student or under 26 then contact the specialist student agents such as Student Universe, STA and Council Travel to find out what deals they have available.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Similarly there are specialist deals for seniors find out which of the airlines you are considering offer discounts for AARP members. If you are getting a senior rate you may find that your companion can also benefit from the same rate. Be sure to ask about these rates and any coupons or vouchers that are offered to senior travelers.&lt;br /&gt;              &lt;br /&gt;Clubs and Award Programs &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Being a member of an airline or hotel awards program is a superb way of finding out about the bargains and also for making ongoing savings every time you travel. As a general rule there is no limit to the number of award programs that you can join, but normally you will have to decide which of the award programs you wish to assign any points you earn during a vacation. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Frequent Flyer Points&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Large airline companies now offer frequent flier incentives as a matter of course. Take some time to locate the best deal based on your own individual circumstances. As well as gaining points every time you fly you can also become part of a mailing list that ensures you are notified of the hot deals of the day!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The largest frequent flyer programs in America are United’s Mileage Plus, Delta’s SkyMiles and American’s Aadvantage. On average they have 20 million members each.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hotel Award Programs&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hotel chains are keen to ensure that they have loyal customers and as such the larger chains will almost always offer some incentive for repeat bookings. Always ask what incentives are available, particularly if you can’t choose between two different hotels. If one offers a good ongoing program, this may sway your decision. Some of the more popular offerings include a free upgrade if you stay for 10 days over the course of a year, free nights, free wine in your room.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Holiday Inn was the first hotel chain to begin to offer incentives and in the early days it was an impressive offer! After 75 days stay a traveler would get 2 airline tickets to Europe! Needless to say, this program was popular but soon had to be discontinued due to the amount it was costing the company. They do now have a very good awards program, just not quite as generous!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Combined Award Programs&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Although some hotels and airlines offer frequent flyer points that encourage you to use their specific company, these sometimes will not offer you the best deal in combination. There are now plenty of companies that allow you to gather points whenever you use transport or goods that are affiliated to awards company. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Affiliates can be anything from hotels and flights to restaurants and clothing. Joining is normally easy and free, and with a bit of careful planning can yield huge rewards. What have you got to lose?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4797635795703536017?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4797635795703536017/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4797635795703536017' title='1 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4797635795703536017'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4797635795703536017'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/05/tips-for-saving-money-on-travel.html' title='TIPS FOR SAVING MONEY ON TRAVEL'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>1</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1543785492371639333</id><published>2010-05-05T08:58:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-05-05T08:59:09.417-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='grocery shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Enjoying The Frugal Lifestyle</title><content type='html'>The word frugality has left a more negative connotation for most people than simply being a saver, a cheapskate or tightwad. There is a thin line difference to saving and too much frugality to the point of being awkward and ridiculous. This is where the negative connotation comes from.&lt;br /&gt; But if you are guided with the right principles and reasons in deciding to live a frugal life, you would never go wrong.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have decided to live frugally, no need to be worried of insults. Keep your head up high.  And keep your focus through these tips.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Eating Out - Having gimmicks with friends on a Friday night is fine if you do it once in a while. But this can be expensive if you add them up at the end of the month.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Clothing - Naturally, if you are the kind of person who adores signature and designer clothes, do not expect that there will be something left of your take home pay. Instead of being trendy, wear clothes that can easily be matched with your other clothes. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Own Home - If you are planning to move out and find a place to settle, do not be overwhelmed by the excitement, instead be practical. As a start, buy a smaller house or try other ways like rent-to-own, do-it-yourself arrangements, and owner financing. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Buying Your Own Car - Shy away from sports cars or SUVs. Just stick to your purpose of buying a car which is to transport you anywhere you need to go. Check out also program cars like a new car warranty. Maybe this is not just the best time to replace your car with a new one.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. Shopping for Groceries - As much as possible do not go with items that are branded. Choose non-brands and try looking for items on the highest or lowest shelves for best prices. Grab the opportunity and shop during sales or use coupons.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. Family Out - There are inexpensive ways to bond with your family and be entertained like going to libraries, local parks, malling, picnics, visit friends and local church.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7. Buying School Supplies - Stock school supplies at home and do not buy anything fancy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8. Be contented with what you have and try to live within what you earn. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;9. Plan your Child's College Education - Teach them the ways to be independent and self-supporting by encouraging them to apply for scholarships and on campus jobs.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;10. Be Aware of your Financial Limitations &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;11. Anticipate your Failures by Planning - Have always a budget plan so you would avoid impulsive buying.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1543785492371639333?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1543785492371639333/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1543785492371639333' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1543785492371639333'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1543785492371639333'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/05/enjoying-frugal-lifestyle.html' title='Enjoying The Frugal Lifestyle'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1980084621652935688</id><published>2010-04-05T07:32:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-04-05T07:33:03.716-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling problems'/><title type='text'>How To Lose Your Money, Fast</title><content type='html'>You want to lose money fast and easily? Gamble it away on “sure bets”, and “can't lose propositions”. Sure having a small wager can make things interesting from time to time, but watch overdoing it. As they say, gambling is a game of chance. This means that nobody is sure when one will lose or win. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, there is only one fact that remains. In gambling, there is bound to be a loser. In fact, most people contend that a game is not to be considered as gambling if it will not have losers. This goes to show that when people gamble, they are bound to lose than win.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Today, more and more people are getting hooked up with gambling. They see this kind of activity as an outlet of their problems, a place where to get unwind from a hard day's work, or simply a form of recreation. What they don't know that when somebody starts to get hooked up with gambling, chances are he or she is bound to lose great things in the end.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, how does it feel to lose gambling? Is losing really a part of the game? There are so many questions, yet, just a few answers. This is because people are not aware of the probability of somebody's chance in winning the game of chance.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some facts about gambling and its losing characteristic:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. If people gamble more, chances are, they will lose more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is one great way how to lose in gambling. People just have to continue gambling and they will continue to lose more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Because gambling entails a lot of money, most people tends to think that gambling is more about winning. They just don't realize that losing in gambling has more impact and has more probability of getting it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. People will never win in gambling.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Statistics show that most of the people, who play gambling, will never be able to win because of the little chances that they have.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For example, in a game of card, there are 52 cards in a deck of cards, thirteen of which are four suits. A person's probability of drawing the card that will make them win the game is only 1 in every 52 chances, and the chance of having a perfect hand of cards is 1 in 635,013,559,599.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Other examples are the games that use dice. Normally, each dice has six sides. This goes to show that for every 6 attempts people will throw, they will get 1 chance to get the number that they want. Though, there's only 1 in 216 if the person will be using three dice.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Indeed, gambling is really a game of chance, even if some people contend it uses skills.  With gambling, people are really bound to lose.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; Lets face it casinos and bookies don't get rich giving away money. The odds are against you, so be careful, have fun, but be smart. So choose your risks carefully and never gamble beyond your means.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1980084621652935688?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1980084621652935688/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1980084621652935688' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1980084621652935688'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1980084621652935688'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/04/how-to-lose-your-money-fast.html' title='How To Lose Your Money, Fast'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6841182617434206779</id><published>2010-03-31T06:57:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-03-31T06:58:00.599-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><title type='text'>Why The Stock Market?</title><content type='html'>We are past the market meltdown of 2009 and things are looking up for investors once again. With the new financial regulation being pushed through congress one can safely start thinking about getting back into the game. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The potential for higher returns are far better from the stock market than from many of the safe investments available. $1 wisely invested in the stock market can bring many multiples in returns when compared to leaving money in a bank (where interest can be shockingly low).&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Many people believe that the stock market is too risky – yes, there is an element of risk, and yes you could potentially lose your capital…but investors who take the time to educate themselves and fine-tune their investment skills have a far better chance of getting much better returns on their capital than those who opt for 100% safe investments. It’s also important to note that often, when one leaves their money in a bank, the actual returns from the interest do not even cover the cost of inflation – in some cases it’s possible to actually lose money in real terms because inflation is higher than the general interest received.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In fact, investing in the stock market offers something for every type of investor, from risk averse to those who are willing to take on calculated risks in order to achieve higher returns. There are also scores of investment funds where the investor does not need to know anything about stock markets or investment – the fund manager invests on your behalf, usually in return for a fee. There is of course no guarantee that a fund will deliver outstanding performance (or will not incur a loss) but if anyone ought to know about beating the market it would be fund managers.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Having said all this there are also risks inherent with stock market investment. When you deposit your money in a bank your capital is not really at risk – with stock market investment you run the risk of losing all the money that you invest if the stock goes bust. Also, while many analysts look at past performance of companies and markets we all know of the disclaimer that says “the past is not necessarily a guide to future performance” – in other words what has brought success before may not always bring success in the future. The market can be a real enigma at times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why The Smaller Investor Has Advantages Over Huge Multinational Funds When It Comes To Scooping Up Higher Investment Returns&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You would be forgiven in thinking that with all the professional managers, funds and resources at their disposal that investment funds would win head over heels against the smaller investor like you and I. In fact this is not at all the case – smaller investors have several advantages over the big funds and have every chance of beating their returns on investments. Here’s why:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The individual investor does not have to invest millions and so they can invest in small caps (tiny growth companies) that have the potential to grow many times over. These stocks are typically far too illiquid for funds to enter.&lt;br /&gt;The smaller investor can get in and out of a stock with the simple click of a mouse or a phone call (and get roughly the same sale price per share). The larger funds have to gradually sell their holdings in a company (they may have millions of shares to offload – not an easy or quick thing to achieve).&lt;br /&gt;Individual investors can effectively trade positions for small gains – something that larger funds simply do not have the ability to do.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;On top of this, the internet has more or less facilitated  the smaller investor to have access to the same information at the same time as the big city fund managers. Arguably, the individual investor also has the added advantage of speed – a fund manager may have to get approval in order to buy into a company (not a case for the individual investor) and cannot take advantage of special situations (such as buying on breaking news and so on).&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember however, if you really want to become a “professional investor” – one who is savvy enough to beat the market and essentially make a living from investments then you need to learn as much as you can about how the market works, how to analyze companies, the part psychology plays in driving markets and how to create an investment/trading system that’s right for you. Even the masters of investing such as Warren Buffet and Jim Slater all started from scratch. Warren Buffet once did not know what the PE of a company meant. Jim Slater once did now know how to read the balance sheet of a company. They educated themselves and discovered how to pick stocks that have excellent potential – you could be doing the same. The first step to investment is to invest in yourself and your education. To offer an overused yet apt phrase – KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6841182617434206779?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6841182617434206779/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6841182617434206779' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6841182617434206779'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6841182617434206779'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/03/why-stock-market.html' title='Why The Stock Market?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-9017842318306321862</id><published>2010-03-23T10:13:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2010-03-23T10:14:11.914-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='fraud prevention'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='health insurance'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='health care costs'/><title type='text'>Avoiding Insurance Fraud</title><content type='html'>Now that Health Reform has been passed, one needs to be wary when shopping for Health Insurance. Yes it is now mandatory just like Car Insurance for drivers. I'll leave the debate about the constitutional legalities for another day. The fact is you will need to get it if you are not covered by your employer, or one of your family members. But be wary, very wary when researching Health Insurance companies.  Just like the Auto Insurance Industry, there are a lot of fraudulent companies out to make a quick buck out of you and your needs. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Everyone knows that the health insurance industry is continually raising monthly premiums, and many feel this is unjust to you as the consumer. However, the health insurance industry has had to fight increasing health insurance fraud. The amount of money spent on investigating and prosecuting fraud is then passed on to policyholders. Many people do not understand what health insurance fraud entails, though. With reports estimating health insurance fraud is a $30 billion to over $100 billion industry per year, the topic should not be taken lightly. Every health insurance policyholder should understand what health insurance fraud is and its consequences. By doing so, you are more able to recognize and fight fraud. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Health insurance fraud is typically defined as intentionally deceiving, misrepresenting, or concealing information to receive benefits from the insurance company. Essentially this means that you assert that you paid for certain medical procedures or expenses out-of-pocket which you have not actually received, and you are submitting claims to the insurance company to receive reimbursement. Another example of member fraud is to conceal pre-existing conditions or to alter medical documents so that non-policyholders or ineligible members receive medical benefits under your policy. Perhaps your sister does not have insurance and needs medical attention. Having her use your name and policy to cover the expenses is health insurance fraud. While you may think that this is a small issue in comparison to your sister receiving treatment, it is actually very serious to your health insurance company and industry, and will result in fines and possible imprisonment if your are caught.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Not only policyholders commit fraud, but providers (physicians, hospitals, etc.) do as well. Since physicians and hospitals bill the insurance company for services they provide for you, they are also receiving reimbursement from the insurance company. When providers commit fraud, they may be billing the insurance company at higher rates for services rendered or they may bill for services you never received. In these cases, you will probably be asked to cooperate in the insurance company's investigation. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another type of health insurance fraud that has developed recently targets the policyholder more than the insurance company. Schemes have developed where fake insurance companies or agents sign unsuspecting customers for coverage at surprisingly low premium rates. They often act much like a regular insurance company for the first few months, paying for smaller medical claims like physicians visits. But once you have a more serious medical condition that needs treatment, the insurance company will disappear - along with the money you have been paying in premiums.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The rule with health insurance fraud is much like that of any other scam: if a deal seems too good to be true, just remember - it probably is. Remember to be honest in your dealings with health insurance companies and expect the same in the return from these companies, as well as your health care providers. Stay legal to avoid fines and prison and to continue receiving health insurance coverage.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-9017842318306321862?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/9017842318306321862/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=9017842318306321862' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/9017842318306321862'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/9017842318306321862'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/03/avoiding-insurance-fraud.html' title='Avoiding Insurance Fraud'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-937140224708390560</id><published>2010-03-08T05:55:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-03-08T05:57:17.081-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Save Money by Avoiding those Little Temptations</title><content type='html'>It's the little things that tend to really add up when you find yourself with more month at the end of the money. It is too easy to say, “It's only a dollar, its only five dollars etc.” but these little purchases is what brings about the biggest trouble when one tries to save money. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving money and financial management is very crucial in one's life. Money is very important in order to survive in this world but only a few people know how to manage their household budget properly. Many people have a hard time saving money even if it is for their own good.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most of the time, you may be motivated to save money but there are times when temptations come your way and before you know it, you have already spent the amount that was supposed to be added to your savings account. Here are some helpful tips on how you can avoid temptations and be able to save money:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Try hard to avoid those things that keep you from saving. If you are fond of buying shoes even if you don't really need them, try very hard to stay away from them. Keep yourself away from shoe stores so that you will not be tempted to buy one. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. When going to grocery stores. Always bring the exact amount and bring with you a grocery list. If you have limited money in your pocket when in grocery stores, you will be forced to buy only those important things that you need. Preparing a grocery list will also help you get organized and will help you in deciding the things that need to be prioritized.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Go to the malls only when needed. Do not go shopping if you do not need anything important to buy. Window-shopping will only tempt you to buy the dress you saw in the boutique even if you don't really need it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Do not bring all your credit cards with you all the time. Having a credit card in your pocket will only tempt you to buy things that are not necessary. This will also help you lower your balances and have a good credit score.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. You may want to save money in the bank or invest in time deposits. You will not be tempted to get money from the bank every time you need cash, if they are placed in a time deposit account. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. You may also want to consider consulting a financial advisor. There are a lot of programs that offer these services for free. They may be able to help you and give you advice on how you can avoid temptations and save more money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So watch out for those little “nickel and dime” purchases that eat away at your finances. Be careful and mindful and you will find that you will soon have more than enough money to last out the month and beyond.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-937140224708390560?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/937140224708390560/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=937140224708390560' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/937140224708390560'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/937140224708390560'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/03/save-money-by-avoiding-those-little.html' title='Save Money by Avoiding those Little Temptations'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-40579682870282147</id><published>2010-02-15T06:33:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-02-15T06:34:24.623-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Do You Have Unclaimed Pensions Funds?</title><content type='html'>Is it possible that you or someone you know may be owed a pension benefit without knowing it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have ever changed jobs, or have been laid off, or have retired, you may have accrued pension assets and they may be lying in the state's unclaimed property funds where you or your family member worked. Pensions are not as plentiful as they once were with all of the IRA's, 401(k)s, and other self administered retirement programs, but there's still plenty of cash left from people who forgot to claim them. There's about $133 million in unclaimed pension funds, according to Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, the federal pension insurance program. Who also estimates that approximately 35,000 people are affected and may have pension money just sitting around.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The PBGC takes over pension plans if a company goes out of business. If the employer can't locate people that have left the company, the PBGC tries to track them down. If you think you may have left a pension plan somewhere, you can check with the PBGC at search.pbgc.gov/mp/. There, you can type in your name and company in a search tool.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Private Pension Plans:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Many private pension plans are federally insured even if the company terminated its plan or filed bankruptcy, it is possible to retrieve these unclaimed pensions. Although the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation which was created by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 has been successful in reuniting many people with their pensions, many people have not been located yet.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Former employees of certain companies, or their survivors, may be able to claim significant benefits as a result of a class action legal settlement. The benefits are payable under a 1996 settlement with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), involving some 12,000 pension plans nationwide that were terminated between 1976 and 1981.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you worked for a company, for as little as 5 years, in the past that went out of business or ended its defined benefit pension plan, you may still be entitled to pension benefits. Workers in those plans who did not receive appropriate benefits are now entitled to them plus interest. Many thousands of missing workers identified thus far have received payments averaging between $10,000 and $12,000 as a result of the settlement with PBGC. However, thousands of employees or their survivors have not yet been paid because they have not been located.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Public Pension Plans:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Federal and State employees retirement plans are generally cover under some type of public Federal and State Employee Retirement Plans. As with all other jobs, these employees also leave this type of employment for many different reasons and leave behind unclaimed pension funds. The administrator of these plans are charged with locating these individuals to return their unclaimed funds.  Many government retirement plan administrators are also trying to find lost participants to assist them (or their beneficiaries) in claiming their accounts.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a retirement savings and investment plan for Federal employees. Congress established the TSP in the Federal Employees' Retirement System Act of 1986. The purpose of the TSP is to provide retirement income. The TSP offers Federal employees the same type of savings and tax benefits that many private corporations offer their employees under "401(k)" plans. TSP regulations are published in title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 16001690, and are periodically supplemented and amended in the Federal Register. (On October 30, 2000, the Floyd D. Spence National Defense Authorization Act was signed; it extends participation in the TSP to members of the uniformed services, including the Ready Reserve.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every state in America holds millions of dollars worth of unclaimed pension funds that belongs to people who don't even know that it exists. You may very well be among these people. It is important to locate your unclaimed pension funds. There are databases you can access that contain over tens of thousands of unclaimed pension plan participants with the last known addresses and employer information, for whose account have been declared abandoned.  Look below for a resource that will help you find these, as well as help others.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-40579682870282147?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/40579682870282147/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=40579682870282147' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/40579682870282147'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/40579682870282147'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/02/do-you-have-unclaimed-pensions-funds.html' title='Do You Have Unclaimed Pensions Funds?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3256623464143434839</id><published>2010-01-26T05:53:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-01-26T05:54:53.506-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Decoding Bargain Holiday Packages</title><content type='html'>Ah January, that long month after a festive holiday season that turns to the blahs, especially here in the northern climes with the subzero temperatures and blowing snow. So to keep ourselves sane and to get through the workday we turn to planning vacations. However in this economic clime one has to budget smartly, so a lot of people turn to the old standby “Package Holidays” to save money. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Package holidays are simply holidays where the travel operator offers the whole trip, including the flights, hotels and in some cases the transport when you arrive at your destination. Bearing this in mind, a lot of the tips for getting cheap flights will be the same as they are for package holidays. Having said this, there are some specific ways of bagging a package holiday bargain.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The reason that many tour operators offer such cheap deals for packages is because they buy a certain number of flights and hotel rooms which they then try and sell throughout the year. By definition, they will have more possible holidays during peak season, but then there will also be greater demand meaning that the bargains may not be what you would hope.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Last minute package holidays are readily available if you are not fussy about destination and can wait until the very last minute. If you simply want somewhere hot, tomorrow, you will almost certainly bag a bargain; if you want a specific type of destination or resort then you may find that you are not able to get that last minute deal.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Optional extras are big business for package tour operators and they will often make most of their profit from these extras such as insurance, excursions and transport at your destination. Whilst these will often be available elsewhere cheaper, you may find that purchasing these from your package holiday operator will allow you to negotiate a discount on your holiday. You may even be able to get a ‘free’ extra if you agree to book on the spot. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another thing to bear in mind is that accommodation is not the expensive part of the package and you will sometimes find that a package holiday to a particular destination will end up as a cheaper alternative to trying to book flights on their own. Last minute package deals are often so cheap that you can take the point of view that even if you hate the accommodation you can always phone around for your chosen hotel. On a similar note, the best bargains are often those that are classified as ‘allocation on arrival’. This simply means that you will be allocated accommodation when you arrive.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some operators offer a halfway option where you will be told the resort, the type of hotel or the grade but the final selection will be done when you arrive.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sure these might sound a bit cheesy, but if you want to go to an unfamiliar destination, this could be your best option to travel. Once there, you can freelance as you wish. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt; For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3256623464143434839?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3256623464143434839/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3256623464143434839' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3256623464143434839'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3256623464143434839'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/01/decoding-bargain-holiday-packages.html' title='Decoding Bargain Holiday Packages'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5819637682852465148</id><published>2010-01-05T04:11:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2010-01-05T04:12:33.375-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Does The IRS Owe You Money?</title><content type='html'>Unclaimed IRS refunds:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Within the past few years, the IRS had over 88,000 income tax refund checks totaling more $75 million returned undeliverable.  That is an average of more than $750 per return went undelivereable due to unreported changes of name or address or due to a marriage, death or divorce. Could one of those undeliveed income tax refund checks belong to you? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; Actually that is nothing, small potatoes, additionly, each year approximately $450 million dollars in IRS refund checks are delivered but are uncashed. That totals over one half a billion dollars annually in unclaimed Internal Revenue Service (IRS) funds. Now if you think the IRS owes you money, you can call their toll-free assistance line at 1-800-829-1040 or visit their web site at http://www.irs.gov/. However, if you have had dealings with the IRS before, you know navigating that bureaucracy can be somewhat daunting.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to the Internal Revenue Service, there is more than $2 billion in unclaimed refunds awaiting over 1.7 million people who failed to file an income tax return in the past few years. Unfortunately there is a statue of limitation on collecting late filed IRS refund checks.  In order to collect the money, a return must be filed with the IRS office no later than three years following the year in which the return was due to have been filed. The IRS estimates that about half of those who could claim refunds would receive on average of $600 or more. Some individuals may have had taxes withheld from their wages, but had too little income to require filing a tax return.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In cases where a return was not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. If no return is filed to claim the refund within three years, the money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury. For 2006 returns, the window closed on April 15, 2010. The law requires that these returns be properly addressed, postmarked and mailed by that date. There is no penalty assessed by the IRS for filing a late return qualifying for a refund.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Accessing database and information that contain the 100,000's of unclaimed or undeliverable IRS refunds from the past 3 years is something you can do yourself if you have the time and knowledge. If you do not, we can aid you with resources that offer access to these refunds for many localized regions to assist you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tips. Tricks and techniques to assist you in Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5819637682852465148?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5819637682852465148/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5819637682852465148' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5819637682852465148'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5819637682852465148'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2010/01/does-irs-owe-you-money.html' title='Does The IRS Owe You Money?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4111412467180207110</id><published>2009-12-08T05:47:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-12-08T05:48:50.025-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Merriment'/><title type='text'>Giving and Spreading Joy Without Breaking The Bank.</title><content type='html'>Yes the Holiday Season is upon us and everyone is in good cheer and merriment abounds. Howeevr with the economy in the dumps, the question is if there is a way to give quality and meaningful gifts without breaking the bank? Yes, to see how, read on....&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Everyday we are assaulted by Specials and commercial messages that tell us we need to spend, spend, spend to make our loved ones love us back. Materialism is the message of the advertisers and if they are to be believed (NOT!) that is the meaning of the season. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ah but intelligent people know better, but still we are ingrained that the season does require the exchanging or giving of gifts, no matter which Holiday you are celebrating (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus). And of course one must give in order to receive.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ah but what do good budget conscience people do when money is tight or not in abundance? Well that is what thrift shops and flea markets are for. Yes if you are smart and discerning you can find wonderful gifts at places like the goodwill, Salvation Army and other similar stores. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most of these stores I have gone through have aisles and aisles of toys, electronics, books, and knick knacks to rival any boutique one finds in the malls. Depending upon the area you live, there are usually dozens of sports related memorabilia from Jerseys, hats all the way to clocks and videos of one's favorite teams. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Baby clothes are another item that is in abundance and one can find a wonderful selection, just take care and a god look as sometimes things get by with nasty stains. But usually those items are rejected at the inspection phase before making it out to the sales floor.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is amazing how many rare books I have come across in my ventures. One of my favorites is a History of World War I published in 1919, a year after the war was over. It included commentary from General Pershing, and a few other dignitaries of the day. Of course the language used to describe the vanquished nations was a bit harsh, but it reflected the feelings of the age. It always fascinates me to read old books and I get a good laugh at the peculiarities of the language and thoughts of the times (I am sure someone in the future is going to be repeating this about the foolishness of our beliefs and political/editorial writings as well).&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Other great items I have found include old videos, cassettes, LP's and CD's that have enhanced my collections. If you have a person on your list that is into these it is amazing the treasure store of classic media that awaits. Of course you might have to go to the electronics section and pick up a VCR, Record Player or Cassette tape player to go along, but it will be worth it to see the joy in their faces of a memory long forgotten revealed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Camera buffs will also be amazed at what ends up in these stores. I have a nice collection of old cameras and other photography equipment that still work (but finding film for a Kodak Brownie is difficult) and are basically collectors items. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Computer equipment is another matter, and usually the monitors and boxes are obsolete and unless someone is a die hard collector, or a nostalgic gamer, they are pretty much not worth anything. However one can still get a decent smaller printer for those occasional letters etc. Heck I have an older Okidata Laser printer that I picked up for $10 that still works beautifully. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One thing to be wary of, if not avoided) is Women's Clothing. The speed at which women's fashions go out of style is mind boggling, and unless you find a rare coat or hat that your loved one has been pining for and can't be found anymore, then I would avoid it like the plague.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;All in all Holiday Shopping doesn't have to break one's budget if done right and one shop's smart. One can save money without being a “Scrooge” and still be a hero on the appointed day of gift giving. Oh and while you're at it you just might find something special for yourself as a reward for your intelligence and generosity.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So get out there and remember, it's not what you buy, but how you buy it that counts.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4111412467180207110?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4111412467180207110/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4111412467180207110' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4111412467180207110'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4111412467180207110'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/12/giving-and-spreading-joy-without.html' title='Giving and Spreading Joy Without Breaking The Bank.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4648874974445928390</id><published>2009-12-03T09:21:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-12-03T09:22:40.993-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='lost property'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='missing money'/><title type='text'>Finding Your Missing Funds and long-lost Money</title><content type='html'>Are you owed money by the state or any other financial institution? If you are not sure, how does one go about finding out if they are? How does one make a claim? Read on for more information and a special offer for a manual that will show you how to recover your lost property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to one state, it's inhabitants are owed more than $110 million by the state treasury's unclaimed property department. Unclaimed finances can be easily obtained from the state holding it. The only way to know if you are beholden money is to learn the proper ways to perform a thorough search and explore all possible claims. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed property (sometimes referred to as abandoned) refers to accounts in financial institutions and companies that have had no activity generated or contact with the owner for one year or a longer period. Common forms of unclaimed property include savings or checking accounts, stocks, uncashed dividends or payroll checks, refunds, traveler's checks, trust distributions, unredeemed money orders or gift certificates (in some states), insurance payments or refunds and life insurance policies, annuities, certificates of deposit, customer over payments, utility security deposits, mineral royalty payments, and contents of safe deposit boxes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When it comes to returning unclaimed estates to its inhabitants, the state doesn't do such a great job of reuniting these funds with their rightful owners. Many states and federal unclaimed property divisions are drastically understaffed.  This restricts their abilities to regularly update there records and proactively pursue property owners. Some states are now beginning to pass laws by which assets left unclaimed after a specific number of years, that is in their custody, will not longer be claimable by the owner. It will become the property of the State. Previously there was no statute of limitation on unclaimed property.  In the majority of the states that statute still stands, however, it is quickly changing.  The rules concerning tangible belongings left in an abandoned Safe Deposit Box is also changing.  Now, in most States, it is to be auctioned off and the proceeds credited in the owner's name. The proceeds amount may not be listed in the database until after the auction. Some states do pay interest on the money if the property was originally an interest bearing instrument. You must check with your individual state and find out what their procedures are.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Isn't it time you checked to see if you have unclaimed money due you?  You can do it yourself, if you know how.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For those that can't or don't want to take on the task themselves, there are companies that will do the searching for you. Sometimes called heir finders or asset locators, the firms help reunite owners with their property for a fee. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Be sure you are dealing with a reputable company.  One way to tell is legitimate companies will never ask for payment before the property is returned to the rightful owner and whatever they charge is generally a percentage of the money to be returned, not a flat fee. Also, if the company contacted you, before requesting you sign anything, they will be able to  identify the property and verify that it's yours.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I am sure as you read you have some question regarding the validity of the amount of unclaimed money and property available; Could some of this be yours?  Most likely it is. Are you interested in finding out for sure? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Property is considered abandoned if there has been no activity on it for more than three years. There are nearly half a trillion dollars in undeclared estates and lost money waiting for you in your state war chest There is a opportunity that some of it belongs to you. You and many many others have an interest in what happens to all of this lost money. Are  you going to receive your inheritance or be a loser and refuse to do something with the multitude of the services that your state offers? Are you going to claim your lost money? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Look below for a special deal on a manual that will show you how to claim your money, and start a business to help others do the same.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next time for more tricks, tips and techniques to assist you in living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4648874974445928390?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4648874974445928390/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4648874974445928390' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4648874974445928390'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4648874974445928390'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/12/finding-your-missing-funds-and-long.html' title='Finding Your Missing Funds and long-lost Money'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8501114880313826066</id><published>2009-11-11T08:03:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-11-11T08:04:59.348-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='your money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='gambling problems'/><title type='text'>How to Spot Gambling Scams</title><content type='html'>Gambling can be fun if done right and in moderation. The problem is some people don't know how to moderate themselves and lose their perspective on the situation. This leaves them open to all kinds of gambling scams. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With the advent of technological advancements, people can find ways on how to do things differently. The problem is that some of these things do more harm than good. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of the greatest problems brought about by technology these days are the scams. This is because with high-tech gadgets, most scammers can easily identify the information that they need so as to get hold of a person's bank account, credit card, etc.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One great example of scams is those that are used in gambling. These fraudulent activities are so prevalent in gambling, especially online-gambling because a lot of people want to earn money. They are so hooked up with earning money that they tend to neglect areas that need careful analysis.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;People who fall easily as prey are those who are vulnerable to ads that states about easy money, sure win, or higher chances of winning.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, there are still ways to deal with these problems. The bottom line is to identify which gambling activity is fraudulent or not.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here's how:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. People should learn to assess things whenever somebody is pushy about a certain thing. Chances are, if they are so pushy, they want to get what they want whatever the case may be. It's like giving their victim a now or never ultimatum. If a certain gambling activity claims it can't wait until the next day, chances are, that activity is a scam.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Surveys show that when a certain gambling activity is offering lots of money in a short span of time for just a small fee, there is a higher probability that it is a scam. The bottom line is that, if it looks and sounds too good to be true, chances are it is a scam.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. If certain rules and regulations are too vague to be understood, chances are it may be a scam. This is because scammers will usually not lay down all the facts. They have hidden agendas or costs that will reap more money once they get their victim on the hook. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. A gambling deal that would offer something for nothing is definitely a scam. In most cases, people get something without giving in return at first. What's more, they even give people a money-back guarantee, which may sound so enticing but all the more it is just like that, an enticement. So, for people who fall to these kinds of situations, it would be better to be wary next time around. As they say, a person will never know what a scam is unless he knows how to spot one.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember this is your money and your life. Gambling can be fun in a controlled and safe environment. Just be careful not to get too into it that you lose your perspective, your money and your life.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Comeback next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the Champagne life on a Beer budget. We're all inthis together, and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8501114880313826066?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8501114880313826066/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8501114880313826066' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8501114880313826066'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8501114880313826066'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/11/how-to-spot-gambling-scams.html' title='How to Spot Gambling Scams'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-705779898421362556</id><published>2009-10-23T10:24:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-10-23T10:25:08.148-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><title type='text'>Gambling What is The Social Cost?</title><content type='html'>Luck, this is not just a word but a belief for most people. These people come from different walks of life and in this world of material struggle, who would not be lured by the glitter of money? Indeed, people are now ready to grab whatever chance that is being served to them. This pushes them to gamble.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling is popular all over the world. It comes in various ways and means. To mention one of the most popular forms, it is lottery. For some people, this is the remedy but the hidden fact is that it is a big blow to the society especially to those who are poor and disadvantaged. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to recent studies, majority of those who try their luck and gamble are people from the poverty line. Of course, the reason is too obvious. With the current social problems that deprive them from having the means to improve their way of living, they resort to what is the easiest for them.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This action leads to worse outcomes. Poor as they are, they are bound to have more debts and the more they yearn to try their luck, the more these debts would kill their lives gradually. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another thing is that gambling becomes a vice. How does it happen? As shown by statistics in the United States, when these poor and less educated people win even just a mere amount of prizes, they would crave for more and eventually gamble more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When this happens, all the other social issues like the role of these gamblers in their families would definitely be bruised. When the family is affected, the whole society follows.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are numerous books and writings such that of Boydon Cole and Sidney Margolius, “When You Gamble--You Risk More Than Your Money” it is stated here how a family is being torn by gambling as an addiction. Gambling once it becomes an addiction would never lead you to goodness. It could be as worst as breaking your family, committing a crime or ending up bankrupt.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As gambling diminishes your social worth as a person, as a citizen, the whole society is greatly affected.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;===============================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-705779898421362556?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/705779898421362556/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=705779898421362556' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/705779898421362556'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/705779898421362556'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/10/gambling-what-is-social-cost.html' title='Gambling What is The Social Cost?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5700335826198150789</id><published>2009-10-06T09:31:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-10-06T09:32:06.374-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><title type='text'>OFFLINE GAMBLING- The real Scam Of The Century</title><content type='html'>Ah the lure of easy money, the thrill of the game, the adrenaline rush of the hunt. Yes all these are the thrills of gambling, legally or illegally whether offline or online. The consequences of out of control illegal gambling are well known and drastic, but what of the consequences when legal gambling gets out of control? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling is very popular, from way back when, and more so today.  It is a scam itself.  In fact the oldest form known.  Not only a scam, but very deceptive.  Statistics show that about six percent of adults that are involved in gambling are severely addicted to such a "past time" as they call it. People who are hooked on gambling have the urge to bet on almost anything.  From horses, cards, and the casino. The number doesn't end there.  It continues to expand.   &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Casino scams are everywhere.  High payouts and promising winnings are put up in huge slogans thereby attracting people who want to earn money the fast, easy and enjoyable way.  A fact is gamblers waste a lot of their time, in the hope of winning.  So they don't give up easily.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Studies show that gambling problems can easily occur in individuals with no self control.  It is necessary for one to identify if he has problems, so it can be identified and acted upon promptly.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are some questions one should ask to detect if there is a problem:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* After gambling, when you lose money, be it a small or a large amount, do regret it, or feel resentment?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* When you win, do you have a strong desire to win more, therefore you want to go back?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* When you lose, do you feel a need to go back very soon?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* Do you spend a lot of time gambling, usually longer than what you planned?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*If you have problems, do you gamble to forget them? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;* Are you spending more time gambling than with work?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*Do you not stop until your very last dollar is taken up?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*Do arguments take place between you and your family as a result of your need to gamble?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*To finance your gambling, do you borrow money from friends or associates?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gambling addiction can be destructive.  Family, friends and your reputation are at risk.  It is a condition often times ignored.  There are escape gamblers that affect seventy five percent of women from their thirties and up.  Usually the reasons for gambling is to escape from the emotional pain that they are in, being bored, lonely, depressed or that they make gambling their hobby or past time.  These types of addiction can be cured in three to six months.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The action gambler is much more difficult to deal.  Most are men, where gambling for them creates ecstasy like a drug addition.  This is much harder to cure, since the individual will deny the fact, when confronted.  They will typically not stop until left with nothing, financially.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As gambling creates a lot of scams, it is a fact that still more and more are drawn to it.  The primary reason is to win a huge amount of money.  But then comes in the most lethal of reasons -- that of feeling a certain euphoria.  Scams or no scams, an individual still continues to gamble and is a reason why offline gambling still thrives today.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One needs to be honest with oneself and stop this terrible disease from ruining your life and that of your family and friends before it is too late. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5700335826198150789?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5700335826198150789/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5700335826198150789' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5700335826198150789'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5700335826198150789'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/10/offline-gambling-real-scam-of-century.html' title='OFFLINE GAMBLING- The real Scam Of The Century'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8495782218870872614</id><published>2009-09-30T07:42:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2009-09-30T07:42:47.531-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><title type='text'>Unknown Unclaimed Money Sources</title><content type='html'>Generally when someone discusses unclaimed money or missing assets they talk in terms of bank saving accounts, safety deposit vaults, deposit certificates, estates owned, money orders that were not cashed, insurance policies that are terminated or matured, term deposits, non refunded utility deposits and many more similar type commerces operations. There are many other transaction that generate unclaimed money.  Some of the lesser know other type of unclaimed money sources are Unclaimed Child Support Payments, Unclaimed Indian Trust Royalities, Holocaust Claims, and Unclaimed War Claims.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed War Claims:&lt;br /&gt;In 1981 the Federal Government completed a program to determine the validity and amount of claims against the German Democratic Republic (GDR) and again in 1986, against the Socialist Republic of Vietnam that resulted from the nationalization or other taking of property on or after April 29, 1975, when the Government of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) was overthrown for losses which arose from the nationalization or other taking by that government of property interests of nationals of the United States. The Federal Government granted awards to 2,437 claimants and a settlement agreement, which provided funds for the payment of the awards, was concluded with the Federal Republic of Germany on May 13, 1992.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In 1986, the Federal Government granted awards to 192 claimants and a settlement agreement, that provided funds for the payment of the awards, was concluded with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on January 28, 1995. The Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service, began advising claimants on the status of the program on September 25, 1992.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Holocaust Claims:&lt;br /&gt;In February 2001, the Holocaust Claims Resolution Tribunal published the names of the owners of approximately 21,000 accounts that probably or possibly belonged to victims of Nazi persecution.  In January 2005, the CRT published approximately 2,700 additional names of Account Owners and approximately 400 additional names of Power of Attorney holders of accounts probably or possibly belonging to Victims of Nazi Persecution.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed Indian Trust Royalities:&lt;br /&gt;Funds retained in Federal Indian trust accounts amount to approximately $3 billion. About $480 million is owned by individuals, the rest is held for Tribes. The funds are held in trust by the U.S. Government for over 315 Tribes and approximately 260,000 individuals.  Each year, more than $800 million passes through the tribal trust funds system and over $300 million through another Trust account. Investment earnings make up a significant portion of the total receipts.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Funds are derived from the sale or rental of Indian-owned natural resources such as timber or grazing land, and royalties from oil and natural gas exploration and production. Funds also are derived from awards or settlements of tribal claims for lost land or other damages. Interest earned on the invested funds also is part of these funds.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed Child Support Payments:&lt;br /&gt;Over the years the states have collected over $96 billion in court-ordered child support that would have typically have gone unpaid each year. Every year since 1998 this has increases from $15 billion to $22 billion with the success rate increasing from 23 percent to 51 percent. But soon changes that are to take effect in October of 2007 will drastically reduce those numbers, do to the lack of federal support to the states in track down deadbeat parents.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;States report an undistributed funds pool of over $734 million at the end of 2004 in collected but undistributed child support payments. Many States have a policy, some state lawmakers find it disturbing, that money collected from parents by the state on behalf of children could instead be spent on prisons, roads or legislative staff. Unclaimed child-support funds that do go into the state treasury can later be claimed and paid for the intended children, officials point out. But the practice of sending undisbursed money to the treasury after just one year is still a point of outrage for many.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you or your family want to find out if you are entitled to funds due to participation in any of these other unclaimed property programs, check all of the states where you have lived previously, or states where your relatives were settled. Also check out states where you may have done businesses or jobs.  They all have databases you can look through for your family name.  Or let us help you find that money. Our resources cover numerous jurisdictions and Tribunal discovery sources that will assist us to speedily locate any and all unclaimed funds rightfully due you. (URL)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you or someone you know have money out there that is waiting to be found? One nevre knows until you check. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the Champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8495782218870872614?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8495782218870872614/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8495782218870872614' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8495782218870872614'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8495782218870872614'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/09/unknown-unclaimed-money-sources.html' title='Unknown Unclaimed Money Sources'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-306067540100300477</id><published>2009-09-17T09:35:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-09-17T09:36:28.758-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgets'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Budget Bathroom Redecorating - A Few Helpful Tips</title><content type='html'>We recently redecorated and did a makeover (going green of course) to our bathroom and here's a few ideas to help save money and the planet as you do yours.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Before you start thinking about any decorating you would like to do in your bathroom, you need to make sure that it is in good shape.  It is important that you make sure there are no leaks, and that all the caulking is tight.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You do not want to complete the redecoration of your bathroom, only to find a leak, and that you will have to completely redecorate after it has been fixed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unfortunately, although the bathroom is one of the easiest and least expensive to decorate, it is often the most neglected.  For many of us, redecorating our bathroom consists of replacing an old shower curtain with a new one and that’s it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But hopefully, using the tips provided below, you should be able produce a whole new and inviting look to your bathroom.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.You can make a huge impact on this room by getting rid of any dark wood and old hardware on cupboards.  Just by using some paint and replacing the handles on the doors, you will give the room a completely different look.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.Why not put some plants in your bathroom, as they thrive in such an environment?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3.Use light.  Bright colors will create the illusion of space even in the smallest of spaces (which many bathrooms are).  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.Change the light fixtures, as the right type of lighting can make a huge difference to any bathroom. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5.Why not consider replacing the taps to your bath and sinks.  Just by replacing the tired, old looking taps to your bath, you will give it a completely different look, and it’s an inexpensive way of updating an old room.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6.Instead of buying a new shower curtain, why not instead choose to use a regular curtain.  This can be hung from a tension rod and backed with a shower curtain liner.  Such liners come in a variety of colors and are inexpensive to buy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7.Get a few candles. Not only are they attractive, but they instantly add warmth (even when not lit to a space).  Also, there is so much variety of colors, shapes and sizes of candles available, that I think you will find it difficult to choose exactly what you want.  But it is best if you buy ones which will co-ordinate with the décor of your bathroom.  Plus, add a few bars of scented soap and your bathroom will soon feel warm and luxurious.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In fact, before long by using the tips provided above, your bathroom will look fresh and bright.  Not only this, but you will know just how easy it is to do and how inexpensive it is.  Soon you will be ready to start decorating another room in your home!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to help you live a champagne life on a beer budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-306067540100300477?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/306067540100300477/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=306067540100300477' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/306067540100300477'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/306067540100300477'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/09/budget-bathroom-redecorating-few.html' title='Budget Bathroom Redecorating - A Few Helpful Tips'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2830257337571080934</id><published>2009-09-10T08:30:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-09-10T08:31:28.792-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><title type='text'>The State of Your Unclaimed Money</title><content type='html'>You know how good it feels when you fish a $10 bill out of your jeans pocket right before it hits the wash. Many Americans have found missing money secrets and have claimed money that rightfully belonged to them. You could be one of them.  Imagine coming into hundreds, even thousands of dollars from a savings bond or a bank account you forgot about.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lost cash, aka unclaimed property is becoming a cash cow for many states.  These unclaimed assets/money is effectively revenue for the States.  If there is a question as to the last known address of the owner, State's are beginning to make challenges or delaying a reciprocal agreement previously enforced between other states to transfer the cash to another State.  This has resulted in states not listing some lost assets in its public online database until the issue is resolved. As the amounts of funds increase the difficulty of claiming your rightful property is also starting to also.  You may require professional assistance.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These lost funds, for the most part, once received are placed in the Government general fund and spent on roads, schools, it becomes a part of their operating budget. If everyone of the approximately 27 million Americans were to claimed their money at one time, the vast majority of the states would not have the cash reserves to meet this obligation.  There is no incentive for any Government agency to try to find or to contact individuals who have unclaimed money or property. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every day, for whatever reasons, People move away and do not update their address, they lose track of some of their investments, they die without a will, and who knows why else...but, they leave money in banks, in utility accounts, security deposits, and many number of other ways. Some of these monetary items end up in the state's possessions after they are declared abandoned by the organization or bank that held them. These forgotten bank accounts, un-cashed stock dividends, insurance payments, safe deposit box contents, utility deposits, travelers checks, money orders and other financial instruments are turned over to the state's Treasurer's Escheats, Comptroller's, or Revenue office who then try to track down the owners and return the money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The extensive spiraling growth in the number of American families who are losing their homes seem unending. The wave of the current recession hasn't crested and is slowly creeping inwards from opposite coasts. All but a miniscule percentage of the US population has not been affected by the economic crisis that just turned global and has people worldwide struggling just to keep meals on the table. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To say people are desperate for cash would be a gigantic understatement. Unknown to most, there is a way for Americans to get their hands on some easy money. It's not a sure-shot deal mind you, but it's not a scam either. I'm talking about lost money belonging to people and businesses that have lost track of their finances through bad addresses, file mix-ups, oversight or what have you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A large portion of the American populace are actually richer than they think.  All they need to do is discover if they are entitled to missing money from state and federal unclaimed property offices.  It is quite easily to do.  Are you ready to take the next step an find out for yourself?  Visit this web site for more information.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Property is considered abandoned if there has been no activity on it for more than three years. There are multiple billions of dollars in lost assets and unclaimed funds awaiting you in your state general fund for this purpose There is a great chance that some of it belongs to you. Co-workers and many many others have an interest in what happens to all of this unclaimed funds. Are  you[/V]Will you be[/V] going to receive your inheritance or sit back and fail to avail your self of the services that your state offers? Are you going to claim your unclaimed funds? Reclaim your share of unclaimed money billions. Don't you deserve it!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the Champagne life on a beer budget. We're all in this together and I'm pulling for ya.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2830257337571080934?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2830257337571080934/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2830257337571080934' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2830257337571080934'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2830257337571080934'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/09/state-of-your-unclaimed-money.html' title='The State of Your Unclaimed Money'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1167090183745054092</id><published>2009-08-11T08:09:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-08-11T08:10:07.021-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Unclaimed Money - Just the FAQ's</title><content type='html'>Are you owed money from a previous employer, a forgotten bank account, or some other unknown or forgotten source? Well here are a few tips to help you find out.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. How can I find out if the government has unclaimed money or property that may be mine?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To determine whether any unclaimed funds are being held by the federal government, you must determine the type of benefit or payment that could be involved, the date on which the payment was expected, and how the payment should have been made. Given this information, the agency responsible for certifying any payment due should be able to assist you in determining the current status of any payment involved. The titles and addresses for all federal agencies are available in The United States Government Manual (http://www.gpoaccess.gov/gmanual/index.html) which is available in most public libraries. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. I received a letter stating that the Treasury Department may owe me money or may be holding funds (or property) in my name. The letter indicates that I can receive this unclaimed property if I pay a "finders" fee. Can these companies help me?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Several companies, or locator services, engaged in the business of identifying and recovering unclaimed assets for profit, acquire federal check issuance data from various federal government agencies under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. The information requested by these companies pertains to specific check symbols, numbers and dollar amounts identified on Treasury check cancellation listings. These listings are not searchable by personal identifiers, such as a person's name or social security number. Personal identifiers may, however, exist in federal agencies' check issuance or cancellation records. Using such personal identifiers, if available, these locator services attempt to locate the prospective beneficiaries, or "payees," for canceled/unpaid government checks and, on their behalf, attempt to collect the payment amounts from the federal agencies that originally certified the payments. It is important to note that these firms are also involved in recovering unclaimed property in the possession of state and local government entities.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. What happens with federal checks that are returned undeliverable or cannot be paid for one reason or another?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;No non-federal agency can issue payments on behalf of federal program agencies until official certification of those payments is received from the agencies. In those cases when undeliverable, unnegotiable and/or otherwise unpaid checks are returned to the Treasury disbursing centers, the checks are merely cancelled and the respective funds return to the agencies that originally certified the payments.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. How does property get lost in the first place?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Property often gets lost for numerous reasons; change of address, change or jobs, because of illness or upheaval. For instance, my mother got sick.  Like many of us, she was urprepared and did not have her accounts and insurance information in order.  Her illness as it progressed made it difficult for her to communicate. When she passed the family did not know where to look for information regarding her belongings.  Over time some things were found, however a lot may still be missing.  Recently I discovered she had opened small bank accounts all over the city. They ended up "dormant"--which generally happens when no business is transacted for three years or more--and getting escheated, or turned over, to the state.  Situations like this is not uncommon and is just one of many scenarios on how property gets lost.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. What is unclaimed property?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed property (sometimes referred to as abandoned property) refers to accounts in financial institutions and companies that have had no activity generated or contact with the owner for one year or a longer period. Common forms of  unclaimed property include savings or checking accounts, stocks, uncashed dividends or payroll checks, refunds, traveler’s checks, trust distributions, unredeemed money orders or gift certificates (in some states), insurance payments or refunds and life insurance policies, annuities, certificates of &lt;br /&gt;deposit, customer overpayments, utility security deposits, mineral royalty &lt;br /&gt;payments, and contents of safe deposit boxes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. How do states try to return this money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The state treasurers and other officials who administer the unclaimed property programs have developed many powerful and effective methods to locate owners including the use of websites, cross-checking public data, staging thousands of awareness events at state fairs and even shopping malls, and developing a national database. The methods work as tens of millions of potential lost owners inquire annually resulting in this vital consumer protection program returning money to people at a rate approaching two billion dollars annually.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;7. How do I begin my free search?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Companies are required by law to send funds from lost accounts to the state of the owner’s last known address. That means you could potentially have unclaimed property in every state that you have resided. You might want to begin your search on your states unclaimed property online database, or other Web sites endorsed by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA).  These sites are free. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8. What is an Heir Locator?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Heir Locator or Asset Finder is a paid professional finder, someone who is in the business of trying to find and assist the owners of unclaimed funds. In most States, if you do choose to use a finder, a full disclosure contract must be signed between the finder and the owner and must specify where the money is, what the money represents, the amount of the funds, the finder's fee (no more than X%, as provided by that State's statute), and how much the owner receives after the fee. Additionally, the contract must be included with your claim form. In order for a finder to accept a fee, the funds must be in the Division of Unclaimed Funds' custody for a minimum of twenty-four months. Most States require the paid, professional finders to provide specific information in order for the contract to be valid. Also many States are requiring the Heir Locator to be licensed to do business within their State.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips on living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1167090183745054092?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1167090183745054092/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1167090183745054092' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1167090183745054092'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1167090183745054092'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/08/unclaimed-money-just-faqs.html' title='Unclaimed Money - Just the FAQ&apos;s'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3869169477367544919</id><published>2009-07-29T09:18:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-07-29T09:19:09.703-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='live good'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='finding money'/><title type='text'>How To Find and Recover Your Unclaimed Property</title><content type='html'>Billions in unclaimed cash, unclaimed bank funds, lost cash and property  is up for grabs.  Unclaimed money as a result of things like forgotten bank accounts, dividend checks, stocks, insurance over payments, and uncashed checks.  Locating lost assets isn't difficult, once you know what you're doing and get the right guidance. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Where does this money come from? It might be a long forgotten bank account that you left behind when you moved, or a relative's insurance policy that was never recovered. It may be a bond you purchased under your maiden name and forgot about. When these funds sit idle for a certain number of years, financial institutions are required to turn the money over to the state. Finding missing or unclaimed cash isn't to hard to do, as long as you know where to begin looking. If you don't have time or want to go through the trouble, an asset locator can aid you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A number of states have entered into reciprocal agreements. The intent being to simplify unclaimed property and money holder reporting. A reciprocal agreement provides for holders to file unclaimed property reports for many states through one agent state. A holder reporting to an agent state may file in the agent state's format. As an unclaimed property holder, they may report property whose owner's addresses are in any of the states with which a State has reciprocity agreements.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The items need not be separated by state on the report. In a situation where the owner's address is unknown, the property is due to the state where the holder is incorporated. Property held for other states is automatically transferred to the appropriate state on an annual basis. Be aware that the holder/state should follow the unclaimed property law for each reciprocal state, and must use the abandonment period and aggregation limits for those states.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every day, for whatever reasons, People move away and do not update their address, they lose track of some of their investments, they die without a will, and who knows why else...but, they leave money in banks, in utility accounts, security deposits, and many number of other ways. Some of these monetary items end up in the state's possessions after they are declared abandoned by the organization or retailer that held them. These forgotten bank accounts, un-cashed stock dividends, insurance payments, safe deposit box contents, utility deposits, travelers checks, money orders and other financial instruments are turned over to the state's Treasurer's Escheats, Comptroller's, or Revenue office who then try to track down the owners and return the money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unfortunately, very few of the millions of people owed federal, state, and private unclaimed property are actually attempting to pursue missing money claims. The $40 BILLION national unclaimed money pile and its rapid compounded growth every year is evidence of this. During times like these, with so many people in need due to the U.S. sluggish economy, it's quite ironic these multitudes in the financial bind are not looking into this method for assistance. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The problem may lie in lack of public knowledge and proper search methods. Finding out how to perform a unclaimed money search is a little daunting, but not impossible.  Knowing where, when and how to look can put much needed funds in citizens' desperate hands. Locating some one that can guide you may be all you need to do.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your bank failed and you don't claim those funds within a year and a half, most likely the money in your account is going to be turned over to the FDIC. There are multiple billions of dollars in unrequested estates and lost assets waiting for you in your state treasury office coffers There is a possibility that some of it belongs to you. Relatives and many many others have an interest in what happens to all of this lost assets. It is up to you. Will you be going to receive your inheritance or be lazy because you failed to avail your self of the services that your state offers? Are you going to claim your lost assets? Find your hidden money...NOW!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey it's your money, find it or lose it. If you want ot help others as well check out he ebook offer at the end of this article.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3869169477367544919?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3869169477367544919/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3869169477367544919' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3869169477367544919'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3869169477367544919'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/07/how-to-find-and-recover-your-unclaimed.html' title='How To Find and Recover Your Unclaimed Property'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1886762572395957303</id><published>2009-07-22T07:30:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2009-07-22T07:30:49.646-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><title type='text'>Reclaim Lost Riches and Assets</title><content type='html'>How much of it belongs to you? There are literally tens of billions in unrequested money across the country in every state.  As each state unclaimed wealth offices take in more than they dole out, have you ever wondered, how much of it belongs to you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There's almost $33 billion in unclaimed money from old payroll checks, utility refunds, trust distributions, stocks, banking or checking accounts, certificates of deposit and the contents of safe deposit boxes, according to estimates by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to Missingmoney.com, within the United States alone, billions of dollars of unrequested unclaimed money and property is collecting dust in state Abandoned Property offices. If all accounts combined to include the funds held world wide by similar organizations in other countries, the sum of unrequested unclaimed money and property could exceed $500 billion dollars. Anything you're supposed to keep for 30 years is bound to slip your mind. Isn't it nice that someone else is keeping track of it for you, even though they don't have the most accurate of tracking systems?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators is an organization that represents the Unclaimed Money Bureau of each State and tries their best to protect and help Americans find their missing money from lost assets. They are not Heir Locator or Money Finder's as they are sometimes called.  Money Finder's are paid professional finders.  Someone who is in the business of trying to find and assist the owners of unclaimed funds. In most States, if you do choose to use a finder, a full disclosure contract must be signed between the finder and the owner and must specify where the money is, what the money represents, the amount of the funds, the finder's fee (no more than X%, as provided by that State's statute), and how much the owner receives after the fee.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every day, for various reasons, People move away and do not update their address, they lose track of some of their investments, they die without a will, and who knows why else...but, they leave money in banks, in utility accounts, security deposits, and many number of other ways. Some of these monetary items end up in the state's possessions after they are declared abandoned by the organization or loan company that held them. These forgotten bank accounts, un-cashed stock dividends, insurance payments, safe deposit box contents, utility deposits, travelers checks, money orders and other financial instruments are turned over to the state's Treasurer's Escheats, Comptroller's, or Revenue office who then try to track down the owners and return the money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;By the amount of unrequested and unclaimed money and property on record, it appears these state offices are under staffed and fail badly in locating the owner's of the unclaimed money and property. All 50 states have a Treasury Office and forgotten assets or some similarly named division. This is the office responsible for maintaining the unclaimed money and property and handling claims for it. Some states have limitations on how long they keep left behind wealth before turning it over to state coffers; however they must keep it until the owner is found. Some states even pay interest on the money if the property was originally an interest bearing instrument. You must check with your individual state and find out what their procedures are.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you speculate you may have unclaimed money and property held by your state, you should seek out the correct state agency to find out whether your name, or in the case it is the estate of a deceased individual, their name is on the list. Each state maintains a publicly available list of left behind assets holdings. If you or the person you represent is on the list your next step is to file a claim and return the form with the necessary certification or proof of ownership. Requirements for proving ownership vary from state to state, based on the amount of the claim and other factors. Acceptable identification many include copies of driver's licenses, receipts, social security cards and numbers, bank account numbers, savings passbooks, checking account and bank statements, or other notarized documents.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It has been theorized that ten percent of the U.S. population is owned money from left behind wealth and unclaimed money and property treasury office coffers. The state departments do not have the resources to investigate every case; therefore much of it goes unclaimed. There are professional finders, or heir searchers who locate the owners of unclaimed money and property and charge a fee or commission in exchange. Private Detective's of unclaimed money and property generally limit their activity to large estate findings. Be careful if you enlist a Heir Locator's to locate your potential unclaimed money and property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unclaimed money can be easily obtained once you know how and where to look. Take a gander at the amounts these states are holding:&lt;br /&gt;The state of Colorado is home to more than $50 million in unclaimed money.&lt;br /&gt;Alabama's unclaimed money rolls have swelled to nearly $400 million this year.&lt;br /&gt;The KY State Treasurer is now holding more than $150 million in unclaimed property&lt;br /&gt;Residents of Hawaii stand to share $130 million in unclaimed money.&lt;br /&gt;Ohio is one of the few states to be home to more than a billion dollars in unclaimed assets.&lt;br /&gt;Nevada is currently holding over $200 million that belongs to the citizens who just need to step forward and claim it.&lt;br /&gt;North Carolina's unclaimed money now stands at a record $700 million.&lt;br /&gt;The state of Pennsylvania is currently holding over $1 billion of the citizens money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;All you need to do is learn how to perform a thorough lost asset search or secure the aid of a Money Finder company and claim what is rightfully yours.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to help you live the Champagne life on a Beer budget. We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;The opportunity for you to earn $200 or more an hour presents itself. &lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;As a Money Finder, you assist these individual locate their missing assets and collect a &lt;br /&gt;commission for doing so. You only collect a commission when you reunite some one with their &lt;br /&gt;unclaimed property .&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;The Inquisitive Explorer's Unclaimed Money Finder's Guide explains it all. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It takes very little money to get started!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= &lt;br /&gt;"http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.ne&lt;br /&gt;tii.net/MoneyFinder/moneyfinder.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;And as a bonus I will throw in the Inquisitive Explorer's Guide to Free Government Money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You have nothing to lose and everything to gain in this exciting business.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1886762572395957303?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1886762572395957303/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1886762572395957303' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1886762572395957303'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1886762572395957303'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/07/reclaim-lost-riches-and-assets.html' title='Reclaim Lost Riches and Assets'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1288259186892035846</id><published>2009-07-14T07:52:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-07-14T07:53:34.945-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Investments'/><title type='text'>The Forex Market You, and The World</title><content type='html'>Forex is a trading ‘method’ also known as FX or and foreign market exchange. Those involved in the foreign exchange markets are some of the largest companies and banks from around the world, trading in currencies from various countries to create a balance as some are going to gain money and others are going to lose money. The basics of forex are similar to that of the stock market found in any country, but on a much larger, grand scale, that involves people, currencies and trades from around the world, in just about any country. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Different currency rates happen and change every day. What the value of the dollar may be one day could be higher or lower the next. The trading on the forex market is one that you have to watch closely or if you are investing huge amounts of money, you could lose large amounts of money. The main trading areas for forex, happens in Tokyo, in London and in New York, but there are also many other locations around the world where forex trading does take place. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The most heavily traded currencies are those that include (in no particular order) the Australian dollar, the Swiss franc, the British pound sterling, the Japanese yen, the Eurozone eruo, and the United States dollar. You can trade any one currency against another and you can trade from that currency to another currency to build up additional money and interest daily. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The areas where forex trading is taking place will open and close, and the next will open and close. This is seen also in the stock exchanges from around the world, as different time zones are processing order and trading during different time frames. The results of any forex trading in one country could have results and differences in what happens in additional forex markets as the countries take turns opening and closing with the time zones. Exchange rates are going to vary from forex trade to forex trade, and if you are a broker, or if you are learning about the forex markets you want to know what the rates are on a given day before making any trades. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The stock market Is generally based on products, prices, and other factors within businesses that will change the price of stocks. If someone knows what is going to happened before the general public, it is often known as inside trading, using business secrets to buy stocks and make money – which by the way is illegal. There is very little, if any at all inside information in the forex trading markets. The monetary trades, buys and sells are all a part of the forex market but very little is based on business secrets, but more on the value of the economy, the currency and such of a country at that time. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every currency that is traded on the forex market does have a three letter code associated with that currency so there is no misunderstanding about which currency or which country one is investing with at the time. The eruo is the EUR and the US dollar is known as the USD. The British pound is the GBP and the Japanese yen is known as the JPY. If you are interested in contacting a broker and becoming involved in the forex markets you can find many online where you can review the company information and transactions before processing and becoming involved in the forex markets.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember to only trade with money that you can afford to lose. Too many people have ruined themselves by getting in too deep over their heads. If your budget allows for it, trading the Forex market is one of the more lucrative and exciting markets around. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember to come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to living the Champagne life on a Beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*****************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1288259186892035846?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1288259186892035846/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1288259186892035846' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1288259186892035846'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1288259186892035846'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/07/forex-market-you-and-world.html' title='The Forex Market You, and The World'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2567278676726110450</id><published>2009-06-30T06:40:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-06-30T06:41:23.227-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to invest'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Investments'/><title type='text'>Forex Trading, Behind The Hype.</title><content type='html'>Forex trading is the media darling of the year. One cannot view business shows, read business newspapers or sites without being bombarded by ads for Forex trading opportunities or classes. But what is Forex and why the hype? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Forex trading is all about making big money. Some investors have found it quite easy to make a large amount of money as the forex market changes daily. Forex, is the foreign exchange market. Online and offline you will find references to the forex market as FX as well. Forex trading takes place through a broker or a financial institution often where you are able to purchase other types of stocks, bonds and investments. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When you are thinking about getting involved in the forex markets you should know you are sending money to be invested with other countries. This is done to prop up the investments of people involved in certain types of hedge funds, and in the markets overseas. The forex market could have your money invested in one market one day, and the next day your money is invested in another country. The daily changes are determined by your broker or financial institution. When reading your statements and learning more about your account, you will find that every type of currency has three letters that will represent that currency. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For example, the United States dollars is USD, the Japanese yen is JPY, and the British pound sterling will read as GBP. You will also find that for every transaction on your account listing you will see information that looks like this: JPYzzz/GBPzzz. This means that you took your Japanese yen money and invested it into something in the British pound market. You will find many transactions from one currency to another if you have money that is scattered through out the forex markets. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Forex markets trading by investment management firms are the companies you can trust with your money. You want to find a company that has been dealing with forex trading since the early seventies, and not someone just new on the block so you get the most for your hard earned money. It is important that you beware of companies that are popping up online, and often times from foreign countries that are stating they can get you involved in the forex markets and trading. Read the fine print, and know whom you are dealing with for the best possible protection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are interested in trading on the forex market, you will find limits for investing are different from company to company. Often times you will learn that you need a minimum of $250 or $500 while other companies will need $1000 or $10,000. The company you are dealing with will set limits in how much you need to open an account with their company. The scams that are online will tell you, that you only need a $1 or $5 to open an account, but you need to learn more about that company and where they are doing business before investing any money, this is for your own protection while dealing in forex trading and markets online.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember there are no guarantees in life, so be careful and only invest what you can afford to lose. Be careful and make sure you study the markets before jumping in cold. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to living the champagne life on a beer budget.  We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2567278676726110450?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2567278676726110450/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2567278676726110450' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2567278676726110450'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2567278676726110450'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/06/forex-trading-behind-hype.html' title='Forex Trading, Behind The Hype.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3468128374985345329</id><published>2009-06-15T08:27:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-06-15T08:28:28.562-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='health care costs'/><title type='text'>Choosing the Best Health Insurance Coverage</title><content type='html'>The news has been agog over Health Insurance again as the government has decided to distract us with this issue once again. Let's face it there are those who won't get insurance n matter what. Others are jsut confused as what to do about it and why do they need it. If you are in the latter here's some help in choosing the right coverage. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With so many different types of health insurance plans and restrictions out there, it can be difficult finding the best health insurance for you. However, this process is not impossible to do well with a little research. There are a few items to look for when deciding on health insurance plans, and by considering them all you can make a good decision for yourself and your family about health insurance. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The most important thing to look for is coverage. More often than not, insurance will cover physician visits and fees. Your health insurance should also cover hospital expenses such as room and board in case you are kept overnight or longer for observation or treatment. Good health insurance should also cover surgeries and any expenses associated with surgical treatment. Beyond these typical items of coverage, health insurance plans can diverge greatly. To really understand what coverage you would utilize and which plan would save you the most money, you will need to make a list of items that you want covered in an insurance plan. For instance, do you have glasses or contacts? Then you may be more interested in a plan that covers vision - either paying for your eye exam and/or partially paying for your glasses or contacts. Though many people think that health insurance covers prescriptions, prescription coverage is actually an optional benefit. If you know that you often have prescription drugs to fill, finding insurance that offers prescription coverage may be a must. If you are a woman and plan on having or want to have children, maternity care or family planning services are also optional benefits that you may want to consider. Once you make this must-have list of optional coverage, you can begin looking for health insurance plans that give you the opportunity to add these optional benefits. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another item you should definitely consider is if your current physicians or specialists are included in the health insurance company's preferred provider network or if you have the opportunity to choose any physician (often the case only with indemnity or traditional health insurance plans). If you would like the freedom to choose your own doctor, traditional health insurance plans or preferred provider organizations may offer more attractive plans - though these also cost a little more. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lastly, consider price. After researching different coverage plans and physician requirements, compare deductibles and monthly premiums to find the best deal. Often, you can get group rates through your employer, or you may find that artist organizations (for freelance artists) offer health care plans. By researching price, as well as other health insurance options, you can make the best choices for your family. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Having the right Health Insurance can mean the difference between living a good and healthy life and being in debt forever after a minor procedure. Without your health you have nothing so make sure you get eh best you can afford. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to living the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3468128374985345329?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3468128374985345329/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3468128374985345329' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3468128374985345329'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3468128374985345329'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/06/choosing-best-health-insurance-coverage.html' title='Choosing the Best Health Insurance Coverage'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8163587633085301840</id><published>2009-06-01T09:41:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-06-01T09:42:02.430-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Saving - It's Your Money, Keep It.</title><content type='html'>We seem to have turned the corner (If the government can be trusted) in this latest economic downturn. But just because things are getting better, don't fool yourself that it will never happen again. In order to be ready you need to prepare yourself through savings and investment. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The value of money cannot be underestimated. In a recent national survey, more than 96% Americans agreed that early monetary savings would help one achieve a fruitful and stable life.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving is a way of insulating oneself from the many symptoms of health and natural adversity. While an average youth of yesteryears thinks more about short-term financial goals such as purchasing a new pair of signature shoes, owning a new jet ski or a brand new car, statistics show that more and more are starting to realize the importance of keeping a personal savings.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Long terms goals are described as goals that have a lasting effect should a person’s present actions be religiously maintained. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The following statements are outlined to provide information and tips on how you can start up your money-saving gimmicks and ensure a happy and financially stable future and list the reasons as to why saving money should occupy a greater place in our list of priorities in life. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Reasons for Saving:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving for your Future and Present Needs – Saving today will provide you with flexible financial resources in the future. Keeping at least 20% of your monthly earnings while using the other for your household, personal and unexpected expenses will surely play a big part in your pursuit for a stable future. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving for an Investment Need – Savings can also be a source of your future capital for engaging in business enterprises. It will provide you more opportunity for venturing on your unexplored talents and earn you a huge potential in increasing your money exponentially. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving for your Retirement – More than 23% of today’s elderly were shown to have failed in one instance in their lives, to save and strategically used their money for preparing their way to retirement. As a result, these folks extend their entire retirement career working on an equally satisfying job that pays them enough to cover their basic expenses. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keys to Fulfilling your Saving Goals: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;No matter how good our intentions and objectives for saving are, we should also take note that goals can fall and touched the following baselines or characteristics.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Attainability – Goals should be something attainable and one which can be achieved without you doing something extraordinary or illegal. A little amount of patience and hard work are key. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Consistency – Changing your goals from time to time due to incidents that may arise in the near future are sure ways to deterring your intention to save. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;While we need to focus on the present incidents, we also need to take hold of our original intention and continue until you have gained enough leads to get it. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes making a budget and paying yourself first is very important. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques about living the champagne life on a beer budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;======================================================  &lt;br /&gt;It's your right to get assistance from Your Government!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes the government gives away billions of dollars each year to assist people like you and me for just about anything. Starting a business? Yes there is money for you. Need help with your house or health? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes money is available. Who is on your side? Who can guide you?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"The Inquisitive Explorer's Guide To Free Government Money Programs", That's who.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get your share and let Uncle Sam help you. Check it out at:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href= "http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/marketing/govmoney.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;================================================================&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8163587633085301840?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8163587633085301840/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8163587633085301840' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8163587633085301840'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8163587633085301840'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/06/saving-its-your-money-keep-it.html' title='Saving - It&apos;s Your Money, Keep It.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-7276080144982769607</id><published>2009-05-18T09:00:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2009-05-18T09:00:57.489-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Merriment'/><title type='text'>Bagging A Cheap Flight</title><content type='html'>The vacation season is all but upon us and you are wondering how you can afford taking the family out during these economic times without breaking the bank. Buying a last minute flight is can be quite tricky. Many charter airlines deal primarily with packages and as such the flight-only option can actually end up costing more than a simple package. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;All is not lost though! There are still plenty of ways to pick up a flight bargain. Bear in mind that if you are going for a do it yourself option on your holiday, it is wise to book the flight first, as this is likely to be the largest expenditure and there is generally less of a variety of carriers meaning less room for negotiation. Almost without exception finding a cheap hotel will be easier than finding a cheap flight.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Trawl the websites of those flight operators that cover the location which you wish to travel to. Join their mailing list. OK, so you may end up with endless junk mail, but you will also get to hear about all of the deals that they are currently offering. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As a general rule, the best deals are available for flights leaving Monday to Thursday and on domestic flights many bargains can be found on a Saturday. Travelers will almost invariably pay more for a Friday or Sunday flight. Most holiday operators will offer the best deals for those who purchase a set time in advance, normally at least 14 days. If it is possible to stay a Saturday night, this will also normally result in a lower fare.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When searching, if possible, entertain the possibility of a flight that involves a connection. Airlines often place a large premium on non-stop flights and if this is not vital for you, you are likely to be able to save many dollars.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A further premium is normally placed on ‘nice’ flight times, i.e. ones that will not involve a particularly early start or involve traveling over night. Again if you are prepared to compromise slightly on your flight times, you may find that you can make huge savings.Try not to stick rigidly to your destination. It may be possible to fly into a nearby airport and drive the last hour or so; this may offer you a better price overall.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Whenever you are considering buying a flight, it is always worth going to a consolidator such as Orbitz or Priceline. This will give you some excellent background information, such as the operators that offer the destination you are after and the typical prices. By doing your homework you will be able to act quickly when you see a bargain in the future. Very good deals often only appear for a very short period of time so it is important that you learn to recognize a good deal so that you can pounce on one-off deals before they disappear. When you are doing your homework, try a search with ‘flexible dates’. This will allow you to get a good feel for the price differences that are in operation during your ideal travel period.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A few other hints that can help you to bag a flight bargain is to consider air courier travel. To be able to become a courier you will have to be very flexible, prepared to travel alone with very little luggage, but on the plus side you will get to travel to new places very cheaply.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some countries offer air passes to tourists that allow discounts if you are planning on spending a lot of time traveling around a particular region such as Australia or Europe. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you book an airline ticket and then find that the price has gone down, contact the airline and ask for a refund. Many of the large airlines offer to pay back the difference if the prices go down. Read the small print and ask for the refund if it applies. Even if your chosen airline does not offer this sort of refund policy it is still worth asking as with increased competition airlines are very keen to keep customers happy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to living the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a &lt;br /&gt;href="http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.netii.net/fina&lt;br /&gt;nce.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-7276080144982769607?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/7276080144982769607/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=7276080144982769607' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7276080144982769607'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7276080144982769607'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/05/bagging-cheap-flight.html' title='Bagging A Cheap Flight'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6313077303518594385</id><published>2009-04-28T08:15:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-04-28T08:16:26.225-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='s'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Poor Rens Tips To Decorating Your Dining Room</title><content type='html'>You are dissatisfied and bored with the look of your dining room. Sure it worked back in 1995, but today is different and you really want a change. However in today's economy things are a bit tight, so what do you do? Well there are a number of different ways for decorating a dining room to give it a whole new lease on life, without breaking the bank. Try these tips:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.Why not cover the table with some fabric in order to hide any ugly surfaces?  You could then use the colors in the fabric as the basis for the new décor for the room.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.The use of inexpensive accessories will help to change the whole appearance of your dining room.  Get some candles and candleholders in order to provide a different look and feel to your room.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3.Why not make a wall hanging for the room.  If you can, purchase some Chinese posters (these are inexpensive) as they are easy to turn into wall hangings.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.Why not see if where you live has a furniture bank.  This is where you can arrange to drop off any old pieces of furniture that you have and no longer want. Then all you need to do is choose a piece from what they have there to replace the piece you have donated.  You may find the ideal dining table and chairs that you want for the theme of your room.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5.The rule of three.  Instead of placing items together as even numbered groups, do it in odd numbered groups instead.  Where 2 candlesticks together look symmetrical, by adding a bowl or another smaller candlestick holder, you will give the element of surprise.  Plus, by mixing colors and textures in order to form groups of three in a room, it will provide you with a whole new look also.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6.As previously mentioned, when looking to redecorate your living room, move the furniture.  You can also do this in your dining room.  Instead of the table being horizontal to the walls, why not place it in the room at an angle (but make sure you have enough space to walk round it).  Also, move any cupboards etc., away from walls, and instead place these in corners of the room at angles.  By doing this, you are giving your dining room a whole new look.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7.Why not build and attach a fold down shelf to one of your dining room walls?  It will certainly make it easier for you when entertaining, and can be used as a buffet area also.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8.How about giving your dining room cabinets a new lease on life and paint them to accentuate the color of the room?  Check at your local paint supply store or DIY store, as well as online for advice on how to paint unusual surfaces.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;9.Use a mirror in order to create light and space in your dining room.  Frame one in such a way that it creates a mock window.  You could even use one by placing it behind some artistic belongings in order to highlight them from all sides.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;10.If your dining room chairs are looking a little tired and dated, then cover them with slipcovers…why not try making some covers yourself?  Why not purchase another tablecloth or two that matches the one you use for your table, and upholster them in this as well?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;11.Finally, why not repaint the room?  You do not need to do the whole room, just paint one or two walls with an accent color.  Maybe go for a color which will accent all the various aspects of the room, and integrates well with any soft furnishings that you have.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just because money is tight doesn't mean your style has to suffer. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6313077303518594385?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6313077303518594385/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6313077303518594385' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6313077303518594385'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6313077303518594385'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/04/poor-rens-tips-to-decorating-your.html' title='Poor Rens Tips To Decorating Your Dining Room'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-662327952448479374</id><published>2009-04-14T11:36:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-04-14T11:37:06.778-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgets'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Setting Priorities in a Family Budget</title><content type='html'>When economic downturns arise those who were smart enough to focus and set priorities in their family budgets had an easier time than those who didn't. Good times will return, and when they do, make sure you are one of the smart ones. Develop a family budget so that next downturn you will be ready and be able to weather the storm easier.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Often times, the family budget is a source of conflict.  Most of the time, the major earner makes the final financial decision, which isn’t always a welcome deal for the rest.  Since money is such an intrinsic part of family life, families need to achieve accord in this aspect.  There is a four-step cycle in budgeting the family money to maintain peace and harmony.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Set your priorities.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Priorities are different from goals.  They are aspects in your family’s life that you, as a family, want to set focus on, say health or children’s future.  While goals are specific targets that support priorities.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In setting priorities, do not set too many as it defeats the purpose.  Ideally, there should only be one, but because life is not ideal, 2 to 3 are reasonable. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As the priorities are set and agreed upon, write them down.  Post the paper where everybody can see them to remind them of what your family is focused on for the next few years.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. List down your goals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Once the family has set and agreed on priorities, the next step is to set the goals.  Goals are specific and measurable conditions that, when achieved, will support the priorities.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In setting goals, establish a target that is both challenging yet achievable.  A 10-15% of the family’s income is a good savings target for a child’s future education: stretching yet reachable.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Try to limit your family into setting 1-2 goals per priority, to maintain focus.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Work towards your goals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;After setting your priorities and goals, start living by them.  All of the family’s activities will be geared towards working at your goals.  Track progress, particularly on financial goals, by using an income and expense-tracking tool.  The simplest way is to get a notebook and list down all expenses and incomes and set a budget for future spending.  There are those that invest in computer software or a family accountant.  Whatever it is, the important thing is to have a system of monitoring the family’s performance towards achieving their goals.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Evaluate your family life.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;At a certain point in time, when you feel like it’s time to evaluate your life, check how your family is doing against the goals.  Goals that have been achieved can be checked off the list, and new ones can be formulated.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;At times, in major changes, say a career move, or when a family member goes away, it may be time to re-evaluate priorities. When such a time comes, then the cycle begins, just like what it’s for: life! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you need more tips, help and direction in setting up and developing a budget? See below for a couple of handy tools. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to show you how to live the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-662327952448479374?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/662327952448479374/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=662327952448479374' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/662327952448479374'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/662327952448479374'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/04/setting-priorities-in-family-budget.html' title='Setting Priorities in a Family Budget'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8227383414033094818</id><published>2009-04-06T09:58:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-04-06T09:59:06.352-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgets'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Traveling on A Budget</title><content type='html'>The vacation season is all but upon us and the family is itching to travel. Traveling is seen as a luxury that can be afforded only by some and necessitates saving over several months in order to get the holiday that you want. This does not have to be the case. With a bit of careful thought and a lot of planning, it really is possible to travel on a budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of course, traveling on a budget means different things to different people. Some would consider a budget holiday to involve backpacking and camping. This type of holiday can be done on a budget relatively easily; the real skill arises when you are trying to get a ‘luxury’ holiday for a budget price. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Interestingly, paying more does not necessarily guarantee you a better holiday. Whenever you are on vacation, you will probably be surrounded by other families, some of which have paid more than you for the vacation and others which have paid significantly less. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You can be one of those who sits smugly by the others declaring the ‘cheap’ vacation that they have managed to secure. It’s easier than you think!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?&lt;br /&gt;Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?&lt;br /&gt;Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?&lt;br /&gt;Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You don't need to have a fortune to enjoy traveling even in this economy. In fact many places are more than willing to make better deals now, so go ahead and plan it out and book that vacation now.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Must Have Finance Tools and Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a &lt;br /&gt;href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html"&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8227383414033094818?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8227383414033094818/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8227383414033094818' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8227383414033094818'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8227383414033094818'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/04/traveling-on-budget.html' title='Traveling on A Budget'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3503971657733806281</id><published>2009-03-31T09:42:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-03-31T09:43:19.748-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='s'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>The Family that Saves Together, Stays Together.</title><content type='html'>If you are in charge of creating the family budget, chances are, you’ve had the unfortunate experience of having a brilliant budget plan that isn’t executed well. This happens to many families and couples, and with a little attitude tweaking, you can solicit the help of your family in making your budget work.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Create a family budget vision. Talk to your spouse and children about whatever budgetary constraints you are facing, or whatever financial goals you intend to set. By being completely honest about the bills and loans you have to pay, or your intention to save a certain amount of money for a family emergency fund (or a college fund, for that matter), you can help your family understand better your collective financial situation. This will allow them to change their perspective on purchases they make, and will help you make sure that whatever money crunching strategies you utilize won’t be counteracted by a subsequent spree by your teen. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another good technique is to create a list of usual expenditures per member of your family. Together, identify which items you can do away with in order to save up some extra money from your monthly income. By doing this altogether, you are making your family participate better and see the contributions they can make into making your family’s finances better.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Should your child have the habit of continuously asking for money for minor and oftentimes unnecessary purchases, you can let your children learn to manage their own week’s allowance. With their limited money to budget, they will realize the value of money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Put a cap on the amount of expenditures you make in a week. The best way to do this is set aside a fixed amount of cash that you will spend for a week. By putting this limitation on your spending, you are forced to prioritize spending on the most essential over other things. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Make it easy for your family to save more. How often do you eat out? Most family budgets are blown over because of the frequency of dining out and the accompanying exorbitant expense of that activity. Eating at home will reduce your expenses, not to mention allow for your family to bond over cooking at home. Do you spend on routine purchases like coffee and newspapers? Cut back on the latte and the paper, and put aside the amount you would otherwise spend. Your family’s collective saving will surprise you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lastly, don’t be afraid to create a most efficient driving route, as well as grouping together activities into one car trip. This way, you can save a lot on time and even on gasoline and car expenses. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving money and living large on a small budget doesn't have to be a chore. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************************&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Want to save money while learning how to save money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Books included in this package are my valuable and necessary resources for today's economy:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Debtfree Lifestyle Handbook which shows you how to get out of debt.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Setting up A Family Budget which shows you techniques for staying out of debt and living and enjoying your life without breaking the bank.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get the Two ebooks and save 50%, plus get two amazing bonus ebooks.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The bonus books include:   &lt;br /&gt;   &lt;br /&gt;Budget Travel - Yes you can travel in style and save money.Learn how with this valuable resource.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Budget Home Decorating Tips - redo your home without breaking the bank. Just becaus you want to save money doesn't mean you can't live nice.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href=”http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html”&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;*****************************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3503971657733806281?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3503971657733806281/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3503971657733806281' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3503971657733806281'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3503971657733806281'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/03/family-that-saves-together-stays.html' title='The Family that Saves Together, Stays Together.'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5485318138777571732</id><published>2009-03-23T07:54:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-03-23T07:55:05.223-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgets'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Housing Scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Decorate Your Kitchen without Breaking The Bank</title><content type='html'>Decorate Your Kitchen without Breaking The Bank&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For many people, the thought of redecorating their kitchen can be frightening.  They start thinking that they need to replace everything in order to get a whole new look.  But this they do not need to do, by just following a few or all of the tips provided below, you should be able to create something new for next to nothing.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Instead of replacing the cabinets in your kitchen, why not repaint them?  There are many techniques around which are easy to learn and will provide your cabinets with an expensive designer look.  Such techniques as crackling, faux finishing and glazing are not only simple to do, but will save you money.  If you need help on looking for ways to up date old and tired kitchen cabinets, then take a look on the internet.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.  Provide your kitchen walls with a new lick of paint.  By painting your walls in warm and inviting colors, you will make the room even more of the hub of the home.  Plus, if you have good quality wooden cabinets, a new coat of paint will help the wood to appear richer.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Why not spend a little of your budget on purchasing some new hand towels and potholders that will match the color of your new décor?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.  Another simple and easy tip for redecorating your kitchen, and will cost you nothing, is to get beautiful dishes and glassware out of the cupboards, and use them to accentuate the kitchen.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5.  But a great way of changing the whole décor of your kitchen is by putting up new curtains.  You could try this first before you do anything else.  They will help to create a fresh new look to your kitchen, and they certainly will not break the bank.  Plus, you may well find that just making this one change will give your kitchen a completely different look.  By changing your curtains, you could actually bring out the personality of the kitchen with little or no effort on your part.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6.  Why not use fabric in your kitchen?  If you have appliances that you wish to hide, then using a fabric is a cheap and cost effective way of doing this.  Just get some material that co-ordinates with the décor of your kitchen, and some wire and hooks, and then just place the fabric in front of the appliance.  Hey, presto, it’s covered up, and the fabric provides a new dimension to your room.  Plus, if it should get dirty, all you need to do is take it off and put it in the washing machine and wash it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7.  Why not consider replacing the cabinet doors.  There are many companies around which provided many different designs, colors and shapes of kitchen cabinet doors.  This is a much more cost effective way of giving your kitchen a whole new look without actually having to replace the whole cabinet.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8.  Also why not just replace the ironmongery on your cabinet doors, and get new handles?  Just by doing this you will be giving your kitchen a whole new look.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;9.  One other affordable way of making your kitchen look different is by adding a kitchen island.  They not only provide you with more counter space, but they provide a place where people can gather.  However, for those of us on a budget, instead of getting a permanent one, why not instead consider getting a kitchen cart?  Because they are on wheels, when not being used they can be put away, and so leave you with room in your kitchen.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;10. Finally, if your kitchen redecorating budget is so small that you would be unable to do any of the above.  Then why not think about replacing the backsplash instead.  Just by doing this, you can really dress up that drab and dull kitchen that you have.  The great thing about backsplashes is that they now come in a variety of different colors and materials, as well as styles.  But how much you spend on this will depend on what material you select for it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So as you can see, redecorating your kitchen on a budget can be as simple as just giving the walls anew coat of paint, or changing the existing hardware or doors on your cabinets.  But just by making one small change to your kitchen you can give it a whole new look&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques on living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5485318138777571732?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5485318138777571732/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5485318138777571732' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5485318138777571732'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5485318138777571732'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/03/decorate-your-kitchen-without-breaking.html' title='Decorate Your Kitchen without Breaking The Bank'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8207725438370722250</id><published>2009-03-16T10:31:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2009-03-16T10:32:37.073-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='do it yourself repairs'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Debt Free'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='do it yourself'/><title type='text'>Getting Started On Budget Redecorating</title><content type='html'>Just because money is tight, there is no reason to not keep up your household. One doesn't need a lot of money to upgrade and redecorate one's household. The first thing you should remember when decorating is that there are no rules except those that you set for yourself.  However, having a plan is always a good idea and will help you to keep on budget.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Below are a provided a number of tips that will help you get started.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Trust yourself&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember, you will know more about what looks good for your home than you think.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Focal Points&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Select the most important element in a room, say a fireplace, and make this the focal point.  Then place furnishings and objects around it to draw a person’s eye towards it.  You could, if you want, direct the person’s eye towards, say, a window, which then directs them to look outside into the garden.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Themes&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Provide each room with a theme.  You may just decide on a color, or it may be a particular style, say French Country or Italian Tuscany, for say the kitchen.  Doing this will give you a starting point, and will help to guide you through the decorating stages.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Planning&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When planning your design, work from the largest area of the room to the smallest.  For instance, start with walls, windows, floors, furnishings and then finish with accessories.  It is important to remember the larger the decorating surface, the more impact it will have on the finished design.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the most important thing of all when decorating on a budget is to have fun!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Shop smart and you will find it easy to keep within your budget and you can have the look you want if you really want it and work for it. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to assist you in living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8207725438370722250?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8207725438370722250/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8207725438370722250' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8207725438370722250'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8207725438370722250'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/03/getting-started-on-budget-redecorating.html' title='Getting Started On Budget Redecorating'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-3486757437116084430</id><published>2009-03-10T09:34:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2009-03-10T09:34:52.156-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Living Room Decorating on a Budget</title><content type='html'>In today's economy fixing up one's house can be rather expensive. However one still likes to change things up once in a while just to keep life exciting. One of the ways to spice up your home life is to redecorate the interior of your house. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are a number of different ways to provide a new look to your living room.  It may be that you are just starting out in a new home, or that you would like to revive an old tired space, but decorating any room, and especially the living room, can be a real challenge.  It can be even more of a challenge when you only have small budget to work with.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the biggest hurdle that we face is how to get a look that expresses our unique personality, without spending a fortune.  However, by looking at the items you already have in a different way, you should be able to create a cozy family room for almost next to nothing.  Below are provided a number of decorating tips which should help to turn a drab living room into a warm and friendly place for everybody to gather.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.  Paint&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Paint one wall using your favorite color, and so make this the focal point of the room.  Then hang a piece of interesting art on the wall (it could even be something you have made yourself).  Next, place a nice piece of furniture on that side of the room to provide even more accent to the wall.  If you want to add extra impact to the wall, then why not use a rubber stamping technique?  Although it is extremely easy to do, rubber stamping can look very impressive when finished.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Use an Area Rug&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is a great way to define a conversation area and look for one which will complement the décor of the room.  Rather than lying it straight, put it at an angle underneath your coffee table (if you have one).  Or if not, then just place it in a central location where the seating is situated.  Why not add some large cushions as well?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Pictures &amp; Mirrors&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hang those which most reflect your personality.  If you are able to, try frames that are more ornate.  Plus, when hanging a mirror, place it in a position where it will reflect either a nice view, or an interesting architectural element of the room.  Including a mirror in a room also creates the illusion of more space in a room because of the light reflecting off it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.  Lighting&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Replace lamps, as these are one thing that will provide clues to your room being outdated.  If you are unable to replace the whole lamp, then just consider replacing the lampshade instead.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5.  Coffee Table&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your coffee table is looking tired or scratched, then cover it with a small decorative throw rug.  Or if you want to be a bit more adventurous, then why not consider tiling the top of it with mosaic tiles or colored glass instead?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. Rearrange the Furniture&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But do not think square; instead, put your furniture at an angle.  By doing this you are giving a whole new look to the layout of your room, and is much more inexpensive than going out and buying new furniture.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also pay attention to the floor space that you have left and use it.  You could actually get some scatter cushions and use these as additional seating.  It will provide your living room with a much more relaxed atmosphere.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7.  Plants&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Use plants to add freshness and impact to the décor of your room, and if placed strategically, will hide any ugly flaws in a room.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Finally, if you do not need it, then remove it.  You can either donate it to your local charity, or ask a family member or friend if they could use it.  By de-cluttering a space, you will not only be providing yourself with more room, but you will also be gaining a whole new look.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques on living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember, we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-3486757437116084430?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/3486757437116084430/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=3486757437116084430' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3486757437116084430'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/3486757437116084430'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/03/living-room-decorating-on-budget.html' title='Living Room Decorating on a Budget'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2344557763002766753</id><published>2009-03-04T08:40:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-03-04T08:41:55.070-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investment'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Investments'/><title type='text'>Long Term Investing Not Short Term Panic</title><content type='html'>“Patience Grasshopper” is the key to making it in the markets. The markets may be down but don't count them out just yet. Sure a lot of people have lost money in the short term, but if you are patient you will recoup those losses and more. Right now there are a lot of good bargains and if one does their homework they will find that they will make money. The thing is one has to think long term, hard as that might be these days, but the long term is where you will make it.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are many ways to invest your money, even if you aren't that fluent in the stock market. Again it all depends upon your risk quotient, your monetary goals and your stage in life&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are ready to invest money for a future event, such as retirement or a child’s college education, you have several options. You do not have to invest in risky stocks or ventures. You can easily invest your money in ways that are very safe, which will show a decent return over a long period of time.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;First consider bonds. There are various types of bonds that you can purchase. Bond’s are similar to Certificates of Deposit. Instead of being issued by banks, however, bonds are issued by the Government. Depending on the type of bonds that you buy, your initial investment may double over a specific period of time.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mutual funds are also relatively safe. Mutual funds exist when a group of investors put their money together to buy stocks, bonds, or other investments. A fund manager typically decides how the money will be invested. All you need to do is find a reputable, qualified broker who handles mutual funds, and he or she will invest your money, along with other client’s money. Mutual funds are a bit riskier than bonds.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Stocks are another vehicle for long term investments. Shares of stocks are essentially shares of ownership in the company you are investing in. When the company does well financially, the value of your stock rises. However, if a company is doing poorly, your stock value drops. Stocks, of course, are even riskier than Mutual funds. Even though there is a greater amount of risk, you can still purchase stock in sound companies, such as G &amp; E Electric, and sleep at night knowing that your money is relatively safe. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The important thing is to do your research before investing your money for long term gain. When purchasing stocks you should choose stocks that are well established. When you look for a mutual fund to invest in, choose a broker that is well established and has a proven track record. If you aren’t quite ready to take the risks involved with mutual funds or stocks, at the very least invest in bonds that are guaranteed by the Government.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Patience and doing one's homework is the key to making it these days (or any days really) in the markets. Be smart, don't panic and things will work out fine. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques that assist you in living the Champagne Life on a beer budget. We're all in this together, and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; &lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2344557763002766753?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2344557763002766753/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2344557763002766753' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2344557763002766753'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2344557763002766753'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/03/long-term-investing-not-short-term.html' title='Long Term Investing Not Short Term Panic'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-8556275465105841984</id><published>2009-02-23T08:17:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-02-23T08:18:01.766-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investment'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investing'/><title type='text'>How Much Money Should You Invest?</title><content type='html'>Many first time investors think that they should invest all of their savings. This isn’t necessarily true. To determine how much money you should invest, you must first determine how much you actually can afford to invest, and what your financial goals are.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;First, let’s take a look at how much money you can currently afford to invest. Do you have savings that you can use? If so, great! However, you don’t want to cut yourself short when you tie your money up in an investment. What were your savings originally for?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It is important to keep three to six months of living expenses in a readily accessible savings account – don’t invest that money! Don’t invest any money that you may need to lay your hands on in a hurry in the future. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;So, begin by determining how much of your savings should remain in your savings account, and how much can be used for investments. Unless you have funds from another source, such as an inheritance that you’ve recently received, this will probably be all that you currently have to invest. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Next, determine how much you can add to your investments in the future. If you are employed, you will continue to receive an income, and you can plan to use a portion of that income to build your investment portfolio over time. Speak with a qualified financial planner to set up a budget and determine how much of your future income you will be able to invest.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With the help of a financial planner, you can be sure that you are not investing more than you should – or less than you should in order to reach your investment goals. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For many types of investments, a certain initial investment amount will be required. Hopefully, you’ve done your research, and you have found an investment that will prove to be sound. If this is the case, you probably already know what the required initial investment is.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If the money that you have available for investments does not meet the required initial investment, you may have to look at other investments. Never borrow money to invest, and never use money that you have not set aside for investing!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back again next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to help you live the champagne life on a beer budget. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well then check out these Must Have Finance Tools &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Personal Finance Tools - products that you can use to get your finances together and make money even in down times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-8556275465105841984?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/8556275465105841984/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=8556275465105841984' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8556275465105841984'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/8556275465105841984'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-much-money-should-you-invest.html' title='How Much Money Should You Invest?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4898715899628311043</id><published>2009-02-17T08:11:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-02-17T08:12:09.686-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investing'/><title type='text'>Before You Invest, Stabilize Your Current Situation  First!</title><content type='html'>The stock market is at a low point and that is a good time to get into the market if you are able. There are a lot of good values and the market has only one way to go and that is up. The long term trend shows that after a crash like the one we just had, the market rebounds to higher levels. For the long term investor these are good times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, before you consider investing in any type of market, you should really take a long hard look at your current situation. Investing in the future is a good thing, but clearing up bad  or potentially bad  situations in the present is more important.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Pull your credit report. You should do this once each year. It is important to know what is on your report, and to clear up any negative items on your credit report as soon as possible. If you’ve set aside $25,000 to invest, but you have $25,000 worth of bad credit, you are better off cleaning up the credit first!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Next, look at what you are paying out each month, and get rid of expenses that are not necessary. For instance, high interest credit cards are not necessary. Pay them off and get rid of them. If you have high interest outstanding loans, pay them off as well.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If nothing else, exchange the high interest credit card for one with lower interest and refinance high interest loans with loans that are lower interest. You may have to use some of your investment funds to take care of these matters, but in the long run, you will see that this is the wisest course of action.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Get yourself into good financial shape  and then enhance your financial situation with sound investments.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It doesn’t make sense to start investing funds if your bank balance is always running low or if you are struggling to pay your monthly bills. Your investment dollars will be better spent to rectify adverse financial issues that affect you each day.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;While you are in the process of clearing up your present financial situation, make it a point to educate yourself about the various types of investments.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This way, when you are in a financially sound situation, you will be armed with the knowledge that you need to make equally sound investments in your future.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips on living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget. We're all in this together, and I'm pulling for you.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well then check out these Must Have Finance Tools&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Personal Finance Tools - products that you can use to get your finances together and make money even in down times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4898715899628311043?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4898715899628311043/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4898715899628311043' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4898715899628311043'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4898715899628311043'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/02/before-you-invest-stabilize-your.html' title='Before You Invest, Stabilize Your Current Situation  First!'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1711879480131758409</id><published>2009-02-08T09:33:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-02-08T09:34:28.360-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living tips'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='the universe and everything and how to enjoy oneself in it.'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='TV'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='press'/><title type='text'>What is Wrong With Our Financial Press</title><content type='html'>It's the end of the world! Repent now or be lost forever! We will never see good times again! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sayings from religious nuts? Rantings of a lunatic? No just the popular press on TV and in print creating another crisis. It's as if someone turned a switch and now,according to them, we are forever damned. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Why the “Doom and Gloom”?  Because it sells newspapers and TV shows that's why. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Amazingly the TV people tell us we don't want to hear “happy stories”, just about who is being bad and &lt;br /&gt;that we are having a crisis. How do they know? They never try the other way, except during the “soft news” portions about cute puppies and kittens. Why don't they focus more on success stories and the good that is happening in the world? Because they don't really know what is going on, they are just repeating feeds and wires passed to them. Hey it's easier than actually working eh? Besides it helps spread the gospel of “group think” and they all want to be good drones.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The main reason for this of course is the narcissistic nature of the society these days. (Of course it is easy to blame it all on the baby boomers, but the younger generations are even worse. Proof you say? Well just look at MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, etc. and see the “Look At Me” nature of all the posts and whining). So everyone wants to think that this is the worst ever because that means we are now part of history. Guess what, it's not, and the press knows it, but it doesn't sell ad space to admit that. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The exception of course is sports reporting where today's stuff have to be the “Best Ever”, even though they don't take into consideration the advances in technology and money issues etc. Yes, instant gratification for dummies. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But I regress.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are times bad? Yes. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Have they been like this before? Definitely.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Will good times ever return? Of course.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When? In the next few years.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What is happening is called “A Business Cycle”. Things go up and then come down, then back up, then back down, then.. well you get the picture. It has been happening since day one, the cavemen and cavewomen had it easy, they just migrated to better areas when things looked bleak in their environs, hence how the world got populated over time. Of course we can't do that enmasse, but we will adapt and things will turn better, and we will all be the stronger for it. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the same people who have been predicting that “There Is No End In Sight For Good Times” are now predicting “No End In Sight For Bad Times”. And they claim to be professionals? Professional what? The these so called “Journalists” are only newsreaders picked because for their looks and personalities. It is disgusting that these idiots are even on the air or writing for newspapers and magazines. Worse are a lot of these special shows. There are some, to be fair, that are good and those few people actually know what they are talking about. You know who you are and who I mean. But the majority are just good at moving their lips and making coherent sounds come out in pleasant voices. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What should you do? Well if you are smart you would just ignore “Doom and Gloomers” like the New York Times, Washington Post, etc  and most TV Talking Heads. You will be surprised at how things are actually not as bad as they seem if you observe readily what is going on. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sure there are bad things happening, but it is not the end of the world (that comes on December 21, 2012 if the Mayans are to be believed, but that's another story for another post). But by keeping our heads and helping out one another, we will survive and be ready for the next uptick, which should be around the autumn I believe. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Be sure to stop by weekly for more tips, trick, techniques and observations on “Living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget”.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well then check out these Must Have Finance Tools For 2009&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Personal Finance Tools - products that you can use to get your finances together and make money even in down times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-1711879480131758409?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/1711879480131758409/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=1711879480131758409' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1711879480131758409'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/1711879480131758409'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/02/what-is-wrong-with-our-financial-press.html' title='What is Wrong With Our Financial Press'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-2513208564465295280</id><published>2009-01-19T10:24:00.001-08:00</published><updated>2009-01-19T10:24:51.844-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to find a job'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>How Not To Lose a Job</title><content type='html'>Nowadays, finding a job can be very tedious. However, some people contend that trying to keep a job to avoid the risk of losing it is in even harder. This is because they are trying whatever viable means there is, in order not to lose their jobs. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Unemployment is a devastating condition in the society.  It wrecks dreams and ambitions, and the goal to have a happy and decent life. In fact, unemployment had such an effect in the United States in 1990, where it only recorded 45% of its population working and from here; only 24% are working full time. That is why it is extremely important for a person to find a job and try harder not to lose it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Today, the percentage of people who are employed gradually increases and the wage that they earn escalates as well, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The families that only earn from $10,000 to $50,000 in a year are already less common because the others are earning a lot more. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For people who already have a job and desire not to be jobless again, here are some tips that they must follow in order to stay on track:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Employees should always try their best to improve their performance&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This entails a chain reaction within the work force in the company. The employee should, by all means try harder to do their job well as well as improve their performance in order to increase productivity. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Once productivity has been improved, the income of the company will grow, meaning there will be more funds for remuneration and more probabilities that the company will adhere to its employees' cultivation and motivation.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Avoid procrastination&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If a person does not want to lose his or her job, procrastination should be avoided. Making up lame excuses, even if there is the slightest truth in it, will never justify the work undone.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. It is better for a person to find a job that he or she truly likes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It would be harder to keep a job that a person does not like. This will only result to poor performance and everything. It is better for a person to find a job that would bring meaning to his or her life.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The main point here is that people should know how to turn failures into success in order to focus on one common goal: never to lose a job again.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips on living the Champagne Life on a Beer Budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well then check out these Must Have Finance Tools For 2009&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Personal Finance Tools - products that you can use to get your finances together and make money even in down times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-2513208564465295280?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/2513208564465295280/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=2513208564465295280' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2513208564465295280'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/2513208564465295280'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/01/how-not-to-lose-job.html' title='How Not To Lose a Job'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4703696201413275880</id><published>2009-01-12T10:30:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2009-01-12T10:31:30.385-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='health care costs'/><title type='text'>Health Insurance Coverage Explained</title><content type='html'>Health insurance coverage is very important because it gives one the security that should anything happen to him, he and his family would not need to worry. Health insurance coverage usually includes medication, consultations with doctors, hospitalization and hospital stays. Some health insurance coverage even include diagnostic and treatment procedures costs. Health insurance coverage gives one peace of mind. If you have health insurance coverage and become sick, you can relax and worry less knowing that your health insurance coverage will take care of the cost. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There is a variety of health insurance coverage plans to choose from. One of them is the managed care plan, in which the insurance companies offer their own doctors and hospital affiliations which would readily provide health care to their members should they need it. However, the disadvantage of this health insurance coverage is, should you prefer to visit your own doctor or be admitted in the hospital of your choice, this health insurance coverage plan would require that you would pay a certain amount. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A Fee-of-Service plan is a health insurance coverage plan in which the company splits with the insured the cost of the doctors and hospital bills. The insured usually pays the company monthly. Two kinds of fee-of-service plans exist. One of them is the basic health insurance coverage with pays the room and care during confinement, the cost of surgery, along with some diagnostic procedures and the medications. The other fee-of-service health care coverage plan pays the cost of long-term illnesses or injuries. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Health Maintenance Organization plan or HMO plan provides for the doctor's consultation, confinement, surgery, and diagnostic tests. However, the insured in this health insurance coverage plan has no liberty to choose his own doctors or hospital. This type of health insurance coverage plan also offers immunizations, check-ups, mammograms, and other health care in order to prevent illness and minimize the cost. Those who are members of this health insurance coverage plan simply pay using their membership card. Choice of physicians is limited because the insured in this health insurance coverage should first consult the HMO doctor. The HMO physician is the one who would refer the insured to specialists if needed. Another kind of HMO health insurance coverage allows the insured to be referred to a specialist that is not a member of the HMO pool of physician. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are diseases that last long and are very expensive to treat such as cancer that may take a long time to cure. People with cancer who bought health insurance coverage prior to acquiring the disease would have fewer worries regarding the medical cost of curing the disease. Nobody would like to get cancer because it is painful and sometimes,terminal. The physical and emotional burden is very hard on the patient, and having one less aspect to worry about makes this health insurance coverage an attractive option. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Diabetes is also a good reason to get health insurance coverage because this disease requires continuous treatment and expenses in order for the diabetic to maintain good health. Health insurance coverage is needed because of what the insured would need to spend on doctor's consultations, medications, and equipments such as blood sugar monitor.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Health care costs are the number one concern these days, so it is imperative you have good insurance coverage. We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you. Come back next week for more tips tricks and techniques on Living the Champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; &lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Well then check out these Must Have Finance Tools For 2009&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Personal Finance Tools - products that you can use to get your finances together and make &lt;br /&gt;money even in down times.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4703696201413275880?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4703696201413275880/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4703696201413275880' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4703696201413275880'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4703696201413275880'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/01/health-insurance-coverage-explained.html' title='Health Insurance Coverage Explained'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-7769759113745968629</id><published>2009-01-04T07:17:00.001-08:00</published><updated>2009-01-04T07:17:57.490-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Housing Scams'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><title type='text'>The Survey Says....... SCAM!</title><content type='html'>The Survey Says....... SCAM!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The latest craze for making “easy money” on the net these days is the almighty Survey. I am sure a lot of you have seen these ads:  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;“Companies Want Your Opinion”&lt;br /&gt;“Make Easy Money Giving Your Opinion”&lt;br /&gt;“Share Your Opinion and Make $100s Weekly”&lt;br /&gt;etc.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I have decided to investigate a few of these and found most of them to be if not downright scams, at least a bit shaky. They seem to lure one in with fast cash and quickly build the cash (or prize points) to a certain level, but one below the payout listed in the agreement. They suddenly “run out” of surveys for you to take, and after a few months of frustration you give up and they don't shell out a thing. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Others are just there to get your name on leads for companies that pay the survey company per lead so that everyone that fills out the forms and gives their opinions, well the survey site makes money and you get a few credits to your account, and then you wait. Then they start sending or offering you surveys that are for products that you have to pay to receive a “free trial” (if it is free, why are you asking for my credit card number?), which of course they are going to charge you and if you forget to cancel at some agreed time (10-14 days usually, sometimes 30), they will put you on automatic billing. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Again the survey site owner keeps getting a commission for every month someone is billed, but you the survey taker only gets taken on both ends. Unless of course it is some product or service you want, but in any case you are not getting your money back through the survey site, nor are you getting your payout. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of course comes the bigger scams where they offer “great prizes” for redeeming points. Of course most of these set the points so high that after all the paying for “free trials”, buying products etc, one might as well have just bought the item they wanted too in the first place, it would have been cheaper and you wouldn't have a ton of unwanted services, charges and/or magazines and junk mail. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Oh yea I almost forgot about those online survey sites that require a phone number. Why if I am taking online surveys do they need a phone number? Well to sell it of course to telemarketers. You get flooded with calls, and again the site owner makes tons of money and you get to eat cold dinners and interrupted evening activities, or a full voice mailbox.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another way they offer you to make money is to refer you friends. Of course if you get them 1,000 people they just might pay out in thank you once these friends fill out enough “free trials” and lead generating surveys to make it their worthwhile. Naturally they seem to find ways to limit the number of friends you can have and that is another way to keep from paying out. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sure some people have claimed to make money from these, but then again maybe not as most people are too embarrassed to admit they are being taken in by these con artists. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The point is if you want to participate, go ahead, just don't expect to make money fast if at all. Be careful out there and if it is too good to be true, it probably is. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"Who Else Wants To Get Their Hands On A Step-By-Step System That Can Make You At Least $11,917 Per Month Starting From Scratch?..&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The World Is Changing Dramatically And You Must Take Action Right Now! Sign Up For Maverick Money Makers Risk Free Today! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How Can I Make This Work For Me?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Click here and find out today:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/"&gt;http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-7769759113745968629?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/7769759113745968629/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=7769759113745968629' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7769759113745968629'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/7769759113745968629'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2009/01/survey-says-scam.html' title='The Survey Says....... SCAM!'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-5016050586722451947</id><published>2008-12-29T11:49:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-12-29T11:50:08.945-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><title type='text'>Tricks that Can Make You Rich In The New Year</title><content type='html'>Tricks that Can Make You Rich In The New Year&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Saving has always been a way of life for people who believed on its power. These people know that they have to save more money in order to create a more established future.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, as time goes by, more and more people find it hard to save money. They contend that saving is no longer a way of life but a resolution that they have to strictly adhere to just to salt away some amount of money. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Some people even insist that it is no longer possible for a person to save more money because most of them are already living paycheck to paycheck. With all the high-prices of commodities these days, saving more money is no longer workable.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the point is that people can indeed save more. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How? Here is a list of some modern ways that will let you save more money:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Save some percentage from your salary&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most money-savers automatically take at least 30% from their salary and save them into their savings account. The basic concept here is that most of us spend whatever amount we have on our paycheck, and maybe even more. If you are able to limit that amount, your expenses will unexplainably get smaller.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Pay everything in cash&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Credit cards had always been a way of life for most consumers. The problem is that they become so comfortable with it that they tend to spend everything on credit. In fact, statistics show that the average family has an average outstanding balance on their credit cards amounting to $7,000. And they even pay almost $1,000 in each year just on the interest charges alone.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hence, because of this comfortable shopping, they forget to keep track of their expenses and accumulate more payables than what they can afford to pay.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Set goals&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Create goals that you really want and not be fickle-minded about it. If there’s a certain amount involved, be specific with the amount, like saying “I will save $5,000 in a year and not around $5,000.”&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Try to set your goals based on your priorities. Have a period for every goal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Check your company’s retirement plan&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;With your employer plan such as the 401(k) or the 403(b), you can definitely save more money for the future. Here, your company will deduct a percentage of your salary from each paycheck and invest the amount in your choice of instruments mainly mutual funds. Sure the market may be down at the present time, but over the long run the trend is upwards and you will be fine if you don't panic.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The bottom line is that saving is not just a way of life or a resolution. It’s the ultimate gratification that you get as a fruit of your labor. Keeping a budget is important and the trick is to keep at it and live the life your way. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Happy New Year!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"Who Else Wants To Get Their Hands On A Step-By-Step System That Can Make You At Least $11,917 Per Month Starting From Scratch?..&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The World Is Changing Dramatically And You Must Take Action Right Now! Sign Up For Maverick Money Makers Risk Free Today! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How Can I Make This Work For Me?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Click here and find out today:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/"&gt;http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-5016050586722451947?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/5016050586722451947/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=5016050586722451947' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5016050586722451947'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/5016050586722451947'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/12/tricks-that-can-make-you-rich-in-new.html' title='Tricks that Can Make You Rich In The New Year'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4243434162471695407</id><published>2008-12-15T06:31:00.001-08:00</published><updated>2008-12-15T06:31:45.690-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Credut'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart credit'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to credit'/><title type='text'>Life After Credit Card Debt</title><content type='html'>Life After Credit Card Debt&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Yes it is that time of year again where people tend to overspend either to impress family and friends, or to overcome some deep seated guilt. These people tend to get into most trouble with their credit cards going into massive debt. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Credit card debt is a very big problem that is being faced by a lot of people who have been irresponsible and undisciplined in the use of their credit card. Though some might have landed up with credit card debt due to some unfortunate event/emergency in their life, most people carry a credit card debt due to their own wrong doings (i.e. wrong usage of their credit card debt). There are a lot of ways to pay off credit card debt and a lot of people do achieve this feat (i.e. are able to pay off credit card debt). Surely, to be able to pay off credit card debt is really a great achievement in itself for not everyone is able to pay off credit card debt. It takes a lot of discipline, restraint, planning and perseverance to finally pay off credit card debt. However, there is more to paying off credit card debt then just being able to pay off credit card debt. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here we are talking about the life after you pay off credit card debt successfully. As mentioned before, of all the people that try to pay off credit card debt not everyone is able to pay off credit card debt i.e. there are some failures too. However, some people fail after they have succeeded in paying off credit card debt. These are those people who let themselves loose and go on a spending spree as soon as they pay off credit card debt. Soon, these people again land up with a credit card debt and are again trying to pay off credit card debt. So, it’s not enough to just pay off credit card debt, it’s equally important to maintain a debt-free status even after you pay off credit card debt; only then can you enjoy a stress-free life in the world of credit cards. So learn your lessons well and do not let yourself loose on the path to another credit card debt. Most of the rules that you followed when you were trying to pay off credit card debt, will also hold good after you have paid off your credit card debt. Here is a quick synopsis of things that you should take care of even after you pay off credit card debt:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1) Do not overspend. Yielding to the sale offers for something that you don’t really need, is a big mistake that leads to overspending&lt;br /&gt;2) Always remain within 70% of your credit limit.&lt;br /&gt;3) Make credit card bill payments in time and in full.&lt;br /&gt;4) Don’t hold more than 2 credit card accounts (two are enough for anyone)&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These are just very basic things; you can add more based on your own experience and knowledge. Remember the most important thing is to make a budget and stick to it faithfully. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, techniques and tricks to help you live that champagne life on a beer budget. We're all in this together and I'm pulling for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"Who Else Wants To Get Their Hands On A Step-By-Step System That Can Make You At Least $11,917 Per Month Starting From Scratch?..&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The World Is Changing Dramatically And You Must Take Action Right Now! Sign Up For Maverick Money Makers Risk Free Today! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How Can I Make This Work For Me?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Click here and find out today:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/"&gt;http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;**********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4243434162471695407?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4243434162471695407/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4243434162471695407' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4243434162471695407'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4243434162471695407'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/12/life-after-credit-card-debt.html' title='Life After Credit Card Debt'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-596209916658041881</id><published>2008-12-08T09:14:00.001-08:00</published><updated>2008-12-08T09:14:41.282-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='money making'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Spending Wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Merriment'/><title type='text'>Impulse Spending – Nemesis of the Wise Shopper</title><content type='html'>Impulse Spending – Nemesis of the Wise Shopper&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The Holiday season is upon us and time again for all those guilt shopping trips. It happens all the time, here we are trying to figure out what to buy for our family and friends, and we feel guilty if we don't overspend. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The biggest problem is when we are just browsing for those “Stocking Stuffers” , and we start picking up this, and that , and those and..... until we have gone way over budget and find ourselves back into the debt cycle we pledged not to repeat from years past.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The secret is to make a list and stick to it. Just like grocery shopping. If you make a list before hand and figure out how much you want to spend per person, then it is easy to stick with the budget you set for yourself. Sticking to the list and budget will allow you to not do any impulse spending, and you won't have the overspending problem you had last year. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are not sure if you are an impulse shopper or not here are a few clues:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Answer these questions truthfully:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.)Does your spouse or partner complain that you spend too much money?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.)Are you surprised each month when your credit card bill arrives at how much more you charged than you thought you had?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3.)Do you have more shoes and clothes in your closet than you could ever possibly wear?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4.)Do you own every new gadget before it has time to collect dust on a retailer’s shelf?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5.)Do you buy things you didn’t know you wanted until you saw them on display in a store?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you answered “yes” to any two of the above questions, you are an impulse spender and indulge yourself in retail therapy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is not a good thing. It will prevent you from saving for the important things like a house, a new car, a vacation or retirement. You must set some financial goals and resist spending money on items that really don’t matter in the long run. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Impulse spending will not only put a strain on your finances but your relationships, as well. To overcome the problem, the first thing to do is learn to separate your needs from your wants.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Advertisers blitz us hawking their products at us 24/7. The trick is to give yourself a cooling-off period before you buy anything that you have not planned for. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When you go shopping, make a list and take only enough cash to pay for what you have planned to buy. Leave your credit cards at home.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you see something you think you really need, give yourself two weeks to decide if it is really something you need or something you can easily do without. By following this simple solution, you will mend your financial fences and your relationships.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The same holds true for all those little knick-knacks and other “little items you pick up at the register or display as you are checking out of the store. Resist, stay true to your list and enjoy your holiday season with out worrying about the bills in January.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips and tricks to help you live the champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;****************************************************************** &lt;br /&gt;Are you sick and tired of making just enough money to survive? &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;"Who Else Wants To Get Their Hands On A Step-By-Step System That Can Make You At Least $11,917 Per Month Starting From Scratch?..&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The World Is Changing Dramatically And You Must Take Action Right Now! Sign Up For Maverick Money Makers Risk Free Today! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How Can I Make This Work For Me?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Click here and find out today:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/"&gt;http://gudbudie.maverick66.hop.clickbank.net/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;********************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-596209916658041881?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/596209916658041881/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=596209916658041881' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/596209916658041881'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/596209916658041881'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/12/impulse-spending-nemesis-of-wise.html' title='Impulse Spending – Nemesis of the Wise Shopper'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6653341877614558039</id><published>2008-12-01T04:20:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-12-01T04:21:12.518-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='fitness'/><title type='text'>Do You Need Home Fitness Equipment?</title><content type='html'>Do You Need Home Fitness Equipment?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Ah yes the end of year is here and we all start measuring our life for the past year and look for ways to improve ourselves. It seems no matter the level of health, everyone seems to be obsessed with the state of their fitness. So what do people do? Either they shell out lots of money for health club fees or they rush out and buy fitness equipment.  A lot of people get these as gifts for the holidays as well, so what exactly should one look for when buying or asking for fitness equipment?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are a hundred lots of home fitness equipment nowadays that are sold in the market. Do not make the mistake in buying something and then regretting why you bought it after a day or two. Home fitness equipments vary and you should always have one good reason to buy it. Don't believe on everything commercials tell you about the equipment. Some equipment may seem easy to use on television but n fact will not really work for you. Try to ask yourself first of these questions before you grab your wallet and buy that equipment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you need it? The equipment should suit your interests and needs. The activities that you will do with that equipment should be challenging and something to enjoy on. Buying equipment is never a guarantee that you will use it especially if it is something new that makes it harder to use. Make sure that you already know the equipment and that it is something that you already tried in a fitness club. Start from buying small equipments that are aligned to your interests.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Can you afford it? Don't be fooled with the thought that you will be forced to use something because you spent too much money for it. Expensive equipments are never an assurance that you will use them or that they are effective for you.  Always consider how much are you willing to pay for certain equipment. Also ask yourself iif it is worth it. Always check on the quality before you buy equipment. The price may be too low but consider that the quality can also be low. Or it may be expensive but then the quality is not that good. You can try choosing on cheaper alternatives but not sacrificing the quality of the equipment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You may also want to check out for some used equipments. Most of the time, this is where you find a better deal. You can even find equipments that do not seem to have been used at a very low rate. Or you can find the equipment 3 months old but the price is almost half the original.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you have enough space for it? This is often what buyers forget to consider. Try to consider first where to place a treadmill before buying it. Before you buy something, make sure you know where you will place it. Your place may not accommodate the equipment. Plan ahead and make sure that the equipment can be placed in your home without causing any hassle.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Is it safe for you? If you have existing conditions, be sure to check with your doctor to make sure that the equipment will be safe for you. Some equipment may be painful to use and might cause harm to your body. So make sure to try it first be fore you buy it.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It also suggested that you first consider if a gym near you already has that equipment.  You can save money by just registering to that gym and use that equipment compared the price you will spend if you will buy that product.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Buying fitness equipments should be bought with consideration. Do not buy by impulse. Always ask the opinion of a professional gym instructor before you buy something. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Please remember that the best fitness equipment will do nothing if you don't use it regularly yourself. So get to it and save on those expensive club fees. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living a champagne life on a beer budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6653341877614558039?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6653341877614558039/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6653341877614558039' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6653341877614558039'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6653341877614558039'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/12/do-you-need-home-fitness-equipment.html' title='Do You Need Home Fitness Equipment?'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4997711819764225227</id><published>2008-11-24T07:53:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-11-24T07:54:54.673-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgets'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Making Ends Meet'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Happiness in The Frugal Lifestyle</title><content type='html'>The word “frugality” has left a more negative connotation for most people than simply being a saver, a cheapskate or tightwad. There is a thin line difference to saving and too much frugality to the point of being awkward and ridiculous. This is where the negative connotation comes from.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But if you are guided with the right principles and reasons in deciding to live a frugal life, you would never go wrong. If you have decided to live frugally, no need to be worried of insults. Keep your head up high.  And keep your focus through these tips.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Eating Out - Having gimmicks with friends on a Friday night is fine if you do it once in a while. But this can be expensive if you add them up at the end of the month.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Clothing - Naturally, if you are the kind of person who adores signature and designer clothes, do not expect that there will be something left of your take home pay. Instead of being trendy, wear clothes that can easily be matched with your other clothes. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Own Home - If you are planning to move out and find a place to settle, do not be overwhelmed by the excitement, instead be practical. As a start, buy a smaller house or try other ways like rent-to-own, do-it-yourself arrangements, and owner financing. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Buying Your Own Car - Shy away from sports cars or SUVs. Just stick to your purpose of buying a car which is to transport you anywhere you need to go. Check out also program cars like a new car warranty. Maybe this is not just the best time to replace your car with a new one.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. Shopping for Groceries - As much as possible do not go with items that are branded. Choose non-brands and try looking for items on the highest or lowest shelves for best prices. Grab the opportunity and shop during sales or use coupons.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. Family Out - There are inexpensive ways to bond with your family and be entertained like going to libraries, local parks, malling, picnics, visit friends and local church.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7. Buying School Supplies - Stock school supplies at home and do not buy anything fancy.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8. Be contented with what you have and try to live within what you earn. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;9. Plan your Child’s College Education - Teach them the ways to be independent and self-supporting by encouraging them to apply for scholarships and “on campus jobs”.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;10. Be Aware of your Financial Limitations &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;11. Anticipate your Failures by Planning - Have always a budget plan so you would avoid impulsive buying.&lt;br /&gt;  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Being frugal in the long run gives one the resources to get through tough times, and in better times enjoy special moments and not worry about finances. Remember I'm on your side as we are all in this together. Come back again next week for another great tip on living the good life without breaking the back. Be sure to check out my ebook (link below) if you need help working out a budget.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4997711819764225227?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4997711819764225227/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4997711819764225227' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4997711819764225227'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4997711819764225227'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/11/happiness-in-frugal-lifestyle.html' title='Happiness in The Frugal Lifestyle'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-330065751944527986</id><published>2008-11-17T09:18:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-11-17T09:19:35.443-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Using Budgeting Tools</title><content type='html'>Using Budgeting Tools &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In these tough economic times one needs to spend wisely. The best way to do so is to make a budget and stick to it. Budgeting your monthly expenses in order to get the greatest return on your income (and perhaps, even put aside some for saving!) doesn’t have to be extremely hard. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Various budgeting programs are available for use. Money management programs provide you with a usual package that allows you to enter your cash inflows and outflows, categorizes your expenditures, and at times, presents to you analysis of your spending behavior. Through these programs you can also input the various payments you have to make monthly, and subsequently track if you’ve paid your dues on time. Moreover, some programs also offer you a tax form draft that will help you make sure you’re not missing out on any dues or any deductibles, for that matter.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another budgeting tool that you can utilize are coupons. Various stores and magazines contain coupons that you can use to get discounts on various products. Should there be a need to purchase a particular product for which you have a coupon for, you will end up saving a fraction of what you might have had to spend on a regular purchase.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Lists—whether on a piece of paper, on your cellular phone, or on your personal digital assistant (PDA) will help you keep focused on what you have to buy, and in effect, keep track of the purchases you make. A classic example is your regular grocery trip. Prior to making the trip, plan out the week’s entire menu and identify what food items and materials you need to purchase that are unavailable in your pantry. Then, make a list of other household items that you’ve run out of (or are eventually going to run out of before you can make the next trip to the grocery). Armed with these lists, you can go to the grocery and know exactly where to go and what you’re going to buy. Without these lists, you will walk idly along aisles, and will likely pick up various food items that you won’t likely need in the immediate future, or already have at home. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A filing system is perhaps one of the best budgeting tools you can have in your home. With simple, labeled file folders, you can put together your bills, your receipts, and whatever bank documents are issued to you when you save or pay. By putting together your bills, your credit card receipts, and the like, you are able to keep track of how much you owe and when your payments are due.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Effective budgeting tools are those that best address your needs as a consumer. Create your own budgeting tool or find a program, or a book, (I just happen to have one handy) or some other resource to do it for you—just make sure it suits your lifestyle. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-330065751944527986?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/330065751944527986/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=330065751944527986' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/330065751944527986'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/330065751944527986'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/11/using-budgeting-tools.html' title='Using Budgeting Tools'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-957744578477492272</id><published>2008-11-10T06:22:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-11-10T06:23:27.428-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Budget'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='buying wisely'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Holiday Shopping'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart budgets'/><title type='text'>Holiday Money Saving Ideas</title><content type='html'>With the hype that holidays usually bring, people always have the tendency to buy more and spend more without taking into account the consequences that their actions can bring.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Hence, it does not necessarily mean that because it is the holidays you have all the reason in this world to buy whatever you want and spend how much you want. Some people contend that it’s just once a year, so better give what you have. However there are smart ways to spend and still enjoy the fun of gift giving.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The problem is that giving something just for the spirit of the holidays does not mean you have to spend gold. You can still give something that will be deeply appreciated without having to spend more money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here’s how:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1. Make a budget and stick to it&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The problem with most people is that they find making a budget relatively easy but sticking to it is doubly hard. So what’s the point of making a budget when you do not know how to conform to what you have stated in there?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Making and using your budget should always go hand in hand. Therefore, when you make your budget this holiday season, it is best that you follow the things that are written in it so that you would be able to save more money.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2. Live within your means&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Of course, everybody would want to give gifts because that is what the holiday season calls for. However, it does not necessarily mean that you have to spend more than what you can afford. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The trick to saving more money is to always live within your means. Spending more than what you can afford will definitely bring more problems than you can afford to solve.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Personalize it!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As they say, it is the thought that counts. Hence, there are no better ways to show how much you have thought of those people this holiday season than making personalized gifts.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Shop and compare&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It really pays to shop around and doubly better when you compare prices. You will never know which items are better priced than the others are when you do not compare their values.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The point here is that you should not be confined to one shopping portal. Try to look for other items, usually in thrift stores and consignment shops, where you can find the best items at a lower price.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Indeed, shopping for the holidays can be fun, but you don’t have to be spendthrift. Nowadays, you really just have to be practical.&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-957744578477492272?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/957744578477492272/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=957744578477492272' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/957744578477492272'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/957744578477492272'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/11/holiday-money-saving-ideas.html' title='Holiday Money Saving Ideas'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-4239590081510894364</id><published>2008-11-03T09:30:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-11-03T09:31:31.799-08:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='investment'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='newbie investing'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='how to invest'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Investments'/><title type='text'>You Should Still Be Investing</title><content type='html'>The stock market crashes and immediately all the pundits are screaming that it's the end of the world. You would think that with all the computers, education etc. we have today these air heads would realize that this happens on a cyclical basis and that the market will come back just as strong. So it it imperative that you continue with your long term investing and build your nest egg.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Investing has become increasingly important over the years, as the future of social security benefits becomes unknown.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;People want to insure their futures, and they know that if they are depending on Social Security benefits, and in some cases retirement plans, that they may be in for a rude awakening when they no longer have the ability to earn a steady income. Investing is the answer to the unknowns of the future.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You may have been saving money in a low interest savings account over the years. Now, you want to see that money grow at a faster pace. Perhaps you’ve inherited money or realized some other type of windfall, and you need a way to make that money grow. Again, investing is the answer. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Investing is also a way of attaining the things that you want, such as a new home, a college education for your children, or expensive ‘toys.’ Of course, your financial goals will determine what type of investing you do.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you want or need to make a lot of money fast, you would be more interested in higher risk investing, which will give you a larger return in a shorter amount of time. If you are saving for something in the far off future, such as retirement, you would want to make safer investments that grow over a longer period of time. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The overall purpose in investing is to create wealth and security, over a period of time. It is important to remember that you will not always be able to earn an income… you will eventually want to retire.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;You also cannot count on the social security system to do what you expect it to do. As we have seen with Enron, WorldCom and others throughout the years, you cannot necessarily depend on your company’s retirement plan either. So, again, investing is the key to insuring your own financial future, but you must make smart investments!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keep in mind that investing is long term and you should budget smartly to include investing what you can afford. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-4239590081510894364?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/4239590081510894364/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=4239590081510894364' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4239590081510894364'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/4239590081510894364'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/11/you-should-still-be-investing.html' title='You Should Still Be Investing'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-6143432326491831595</id><published>2008-10-28T04:04:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2008-10-28T04:05:46.068-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='smart credit'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='protecting name'/><title type='text'>Making Sure You Are Really You</title><content type='html'>Protecting your personal information is easy to do if you just follow common sense rules and pay attention to what you are doing. After all no one is responsible for your safety except you. So what can you do to make sure you are a safe as possible? &lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;We all know that criminals are out there, waiting to steal our credit card information.  These very criminals want credit card information so they can run up the charges then leave you holding the bags - with nothing to show for it.  Even though some are local, most credit card criminals are in far away lands.  Worse than that, they like to hide or go by other names so it’s virtually impossible to track them down.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The most common way for criminals to get credit card information is through phishing, which involves a fake email that appears to be sent from your credit card company.  Normally, this fake email states that there was an error with your account, or that it was accessed by unauthorized personnel and needs your attention.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Spotting fake emails isn’t hard to do - as long as you know what to look for.  The most obvious hint for most, is the fact that they don’t even have a credit card from the company that has sent the email.  For others, the link is what gives the fake email away.  Anytime you get an email from a credit card that you believe to be fake, you should always hover your mouse over the link, then “right click” the link with the mouse and select “view source”.  If the link is indeed fake, the website address that comes up will be something other than that of a credit card company.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The criminals don’t want you to look at the source for their website, as they simply want you to click on the link before you look at anything else.  Once you have clicked on the link, you’ll arrive at a website that is usually an exact copy of a credit card website.  Fake sites normally include everything that the actual site does, including the logos and banners.  Even for the most amateur of credit card criminals, web pages like this are very easy to create.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Those of you who have fell victim to this scam, probably realized what you have done little too late.  Once you have entered in your credit card information, you have done exactly what the criminals wanted and put yourself in violation of credit card fraud and identity theft.  Once the criminal has your social security number and credit card information, he is more than likely to use that information to go on a shopping spree - stealing your money and running up your account.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you receive an email such as this, you should always delete it.  Even if you just click on the fake website to investigate, you may do more harm than good.  Even though you may not enter any information at all, your computer may get infected with viruses or spyware simply because you clicked on the link.  To avoid this altogether, you should never click on a link that you believe to be a fake credit card company website.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you do your part and protect your credit card information, you won’t have anything at all to worry about.  Your personal information is very important, as you never want it to fall in the wrong hands.  As long as you protect it, you won’t have anything to worry about.  There are always criminals out there, which is why you should always be on guard.  Criminals want your personal information and your credit card numbers - it’s up to you to ensure that they don’t get it.  A criminal will do anything to get what they want, which is why protecting yourself is so very important these days.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember the most important thing is you are responsible for your own safety, so use common sense and be careful. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Mahalo.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************   &lt;br /&gt;Need to learn how to get and stay out of debt and live debt free?&lt;br /&gt;Tips and techniques outlined in our ebook “Debt Free Living”. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For more information: &lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html"&gt; http://www.renspubhouse.com/debtfree/debtfree.html&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;******************************************************************&lt;div class="blogger-post-footer"&gt;&lt;img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/3528893696887692809-6143432326491831595?l=poorrens.blogspot.com' alt='' /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/feeds/6143432326491831595/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=3528893696887692809&amp;postID=6143432326491831595' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6143432326491831595'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3528893696887692809/posts/default/6143432326491831595'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://poorrens.blogspot.com/2008/10/making-sure-you-are-really-you.html' title='Making Sure You Are Really You'/><author><name>michael rener</name><uri>https://profiles.google.com/107320401742349962728</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='32' height='32' src='//lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHlpaSIJ2Yw/AAAAAAAAAAI/AAAAAAAAAII/NVcbNXz6e5k/s512-c/photo.jpg'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3528893696887692809.post-1267901959575211267</id><published>2008-10-20T17:47:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2008-10-20T17:48:16.766-07:00</updated><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='Saving Money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='save money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='living large on small money'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='budgeting smartly'/><category scheme='http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#' term='making money'/><title type='text'>Easy Money-Saving Techniques</title><content type='html'>One of the most obvious and easy ways to save some extra cash is to change some of the way you use products and items in your everyday life.  The key is to make minor changes.  You don't have to go overboard to save money, just use some common sense and old fashioned imagination.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For instance, always buy the cheapest hand soap you can find.  The quality doesn’t necessarily go up with the price and you can use it in place of ‘bath soap.’  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Always use the whole product.  Turn bottles upside down and drain to get the last bit from them.  Tear open sugar and flour sacks to get everything; squeeze or cut open tubes to use it all before running out to buy more.  You’ll be surprised at how much there really is left!  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Also, never use more than you need.  Just because it says on the box that you need a full cup, doesn’t mean that you really do it need it.  Half a measure of laundry detergent and a half teaspoon of dish soap are examples of what are usually enough, rather than what the manufacturer says.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To save some cash, you can use some of the things in your house in some unique ways.  Instead of spending lots of money on the fancy floor cleaners, try using ammonia.  It does a great job, and you can use plain water in between times.  If your furniture needs some polishing, mix equal parts of white vinegar and vegetable oil and rub on the furniture.  Buff with a cloth until it shines.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For a freezer bag, use empty chip bags and close with masking taps.  Also try a bowl with a lid, such as a margarine tub.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your skin is feeling a little dry, there are several substitutes for expensive lotion.  Petroleum jelly rubbed into your hands at night after a warm water soak, mayonnaise (rinse w/ cold water after), or any other oil based food.  Just be sure to put it on immediately after your hands have been in water. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; To save some money on laundry, dissolve a bar of hand soap in water to replace laundry detergent.  Add three gallons of hot water, mix thoroughly and add a cup of washing soda.  &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Sure, these are small changes, but added up, they can put some extra change into your pocket throughout the year!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;H
