The Sun's Financial Diary

Holiday gift shopping is likely the farthest thing from your mind as you soak up the sun’s rays this summer, but if you have children in your life than now’s exactly the right time to start thinking about it. Even as you read this article, stockrooms in the back of retailers everywhere are bursting at [...]

Let’s face it, there’s nothing fun about being a “glass is half empty” person. Take control – especially when it comes to your finances – and stop looking for the silver lining. Instead, turn that cup into half or completely full by creating the silver lining it yourself. How? Instantly improve the quality of your [...]

The economy being what it is and the real estate market being what it is, I’m stuck, literally stuck in a smallish condo raising two rambunctious boys. Granted, this wasn’t what I ever expected, or even (admittedly) what I initially wanted, but even more surprising has been the multitude of upsides to the situation. As [...]

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, convenience unfortunately isn’t cheap. Anytime you employ someone else to help you out in some way shape or form, you’ll likely pay for it. The good news is, however, that you can score some everyday conveniences to help make life easier for even cheaper than you [...]

It’s good, common sense that having the right tools makes any job easier. You don’t set out to bake a cake without, first, having the necessary ingredients. Likewise, in order to get the most for the least amount of money, it makes sense to review the tools of the money-saving trade. Coupons: Clip ‘em and [...]

A few weeks ago, my household joined the 800,000 others who have abandoned cable recently in favor of watching television shows for free over the internet. For me, that means a $70 monthly reduction in my cable bill. During these first few cable-free weeks we have had some fun, some frustration and, I’m not afraid [...]

A few weeks ago when we brought up the idea of household debt panels, we talked about the way that many people attempt to upgrade their appearance with expensive cars, clothes and other items even when they can’t afford to because their possessions act as a mask to their true financial identity. Believe it or not, [...]

Apparently, I don’t get out much. This weekend, Hubby and I decided to go out with another couple for dinner and a movie. 4 hours and $70 later I was in the car on the way home with a stunned expression on my face trying to figure out where it all went wrong. You know, [...]

The parallel between habits when it comes to food and money are significant. Many people reach for a cookie when they’re depressed, others for their credit card. Some celebrate with cake and sweets, still others by purchasing themselves tangible treats. If you’re an emotional spender, best for you – and your budget – to fess [...]

I was once a big fan of stocking up on things when they were on sale. I used to think this was a great way to be frugal — buying things on sale before I needed them in anticipation of the time when I would. After a few years I accumulated so many unused items [...]