Archive for July, 2008

Most consumers hear the word recession and cringe to think of all the bad things that could happen to them personally and financially. However, there are some things that may be a blessing in disguise during a recession. It’s really more about the perspective of the individual. The next time you hear the word recession, [...]

Bend, Oregon, is a big city with a small town feel. It is the perfect place to spend time relaxing and recharging your worn down office zone batteries. From the rambling river that flows alongside a park in downtown to the year round recreation activities available, you can find plenty to do in Bend. You [...]

When I was a kid, I can remember looking forward to the “lazy days” of summer, and was pretty good at finding things to do to keep busy.  My parents took my brother and I on several camping trips, but there would still be several weeks throughout every summer when we would find ways to [...]

One reason people select cruises as a vacation option is for the numerous opportunities and activities on board. Yes, most Caribbean cruises still present the traditional belly flop contest, line dances and Bingo games; but onboard activities have come a long way and have grown in sophistication to meet the varying needs as the varying [...]

Nearly 50 million people in the United States don’t have health insurance coverage.  With the increasing cost of living, going to the doctor or dentist becomes almost impossible for most family budgets if there isn’t health insurance available to help offset the expense. I’m lucky to have wonderful health insurance coverage through my husband’s job [...]

Atlantis is not a hidden city anymore…it is a treasured gem in the Bahamas. Atlantis Resort offers tropical escapes for all ages with turquoise waters, sandy beaches, on-site dolphin encounters, fabulous pools, a water park complete with tubes, water slides through an aquarium and its sea life, fantastic cuisine, casino gaming, amazing views, tropical beverages, [...]

Weekend getaways are often times just what the doctor ordered to re-energize one’s mind, body and soul or to just have a little fun. Cruising on a three-night itinerary can fit the bill without breaking the bank. These cruises offer great cuisine, accommodations and entertainment as well as the opportunity to experience the Bahamian culture. [...]

While most people dread the thought of moving, the reality is that at some point there is a likelihood you will sell your house at some point due to lifestyle changes, job changes, or for downsizing purposes. Whatever the reason, you will always want to be prepared should that day come, especially if you plan [...]

With the nearby cities of Solvang to the northeast and Santa Barbara to the southeast, Refugio State Beach is the perfect camping getaway. Whether you are tent or RV camping Refugio State Beach is a great spot to park yourself. This beach has great waves that can turn pretty intense on a dime. Maybe that [...]

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions a consumer can make. With the increasing difficulties the home sales industry is now facing, most lenders will require a down payment of some kind, in order to qualify for a home loan. It wasn’t that long ago when lenders were more comfortable with the [...]

The phone is ringing and the last thing you want to do is find a debt collector calling on the other end, trying to collect on a debt you can’t pay. The harassing phone calls are becoming more frequent, warning notices are piling up and there is no way you can even make the minute [...]

While many people of retirement age can not afford to retire, many more could secure their retirement if they do their part to make sure they are preparing for retirement. While retirement aged people should have already taken the step to secure their work-free future, it is the young, working people that need to get [...]

This week’s carnival is hosted by Mighty Bargain Hunter and offers the history of the American Flag as a theme.  Tons of personal finance related articles, so head over and check them out.  Here is a sample: Discover Debt Freedom gives five tips for finding financial freedom, especially for folks who could improve their spending [...]

One of the most common ways to save money that is mentioned over and over is by skipping meals out on the town and staying home to eat instead. But what happens when you go to work everyday? Bring a bologna and cheese everyday can get old fast but so many people are trying to [...]