It's been 30 days since I put out the challenge to not watch TV for a month. Speak up and share your experience. Here's what I found over 7 years ago when I stopped watching TV... More time - This is pretty simple. The average American adult watches 5 hours of TV per day. Convert some of that … [Read more...] about Follow Up: 30 Day Challenge – Can you do without TV?
Personal Enjoyment
What Causes Inflation? (You may be surprised) – Part 2
In Part 1 of this post, we examined the facts concluding that inflation is caused by monetary debasement. In this follow up, we'll observe the reason behind why common belief is that inflation is at 3% - 5%. First, let's recap what was already covered: What is Inflation? Inflation is the steady, … [Read more...] about What Causes Inflation? (You may be surprised) – Part 2
30 Day Challenge: Can you do without TV?
I do a lot of things differently in an effort to enjoy my life. Sometimes I forget just how abnormal some of them are. This past week I co-instructed the IRA Association of America professional member enrollment course in Denver, CO. During a lunch conversation, one of our new members asked me what … [Read more...] about 30 Day Challenge: Can you do without TV?
Penalty Free Early Distributions
Probably one of the must unknown facets of retirement planning is that you can distribute before age 59 ½ for any reason without paying the extra 10% early distribution tax. How? Substantially Equal Periodic Payments Set a distribution schedule calculated using IRS tables The schedule must have … [Read more...] about Penalty Free Early Distributions
Consumer confidence falling & the $600 checks to save the day
Did you get your $600 check yet? What will you do with it? Surveys are saying that most Americans will use their "Economic Stimulus" check to deal with gas, food, and catching up on bills. This doesn't stimulate the economy. Consumer spending stimulates the economy. In other words, the Department … [Read more...] about Consumer confidence falling & the $600 checks to save the day
Real Estate in the Wild West
"Buying foreign real estate is kind of like buying real estate in the Wild West. 150 years ago they probably didn't have an MLS, local board of Realtors, or disclosure laws," says foreign investment specialist Tom Phelan. I had the chance to catch up with him today and pick his brain. As described … [Read more...] about Real Estate in the Wild West