Thanks for the tips. You have provided some very concrete advice.
I wish i could wave a magic wand to make it all happen! I have found that moving from paper to electronic statements has been one of the great ways to reduce clutter.
I finally found a place to get my soybean in bulk for cheap. Found it by doing a search on the internet.
bulkfoods.com
I now buy my vital wheat gluten in large bulk bags also.
I try to buy 75.00 worth of stuff to get free freight.
I like making my own wheat bread so I get my flour there.
Beans, Nuts also.
I was definitely surprised by the emotion expressed throughout these comments. Several people brought up some excellent arguments, but a few people fell back on some rather worn and simply incorrect claims. But hey, I'm just happy that most people are applying some sort of cost-benefit analysis to this policy discussion.
First, I'm glad that so many people mentioned taking a harder look at government subsidies. That is rightfully and rationally the first step. Second, many wise people pointed out that defining "junk food" would be incredibly difficult and not nearly as easy as the article suggests. Would it be so difficult, however, that it's best not to try? I dunno- that's a topic for additional debate. Several comments rightfully pointed out that the DC lobby-machine would dive head-first into that discussion, with the rational intent of influencing the outcome. Why? Because the livelihoods of people-- not just rich "fat cats", but the jobs and wages of all types of people in entire industries -- would be on the line. (I'm continually surprised how many people think that only evil "big business" has lobbyists - when you get a chance, go check out which organizations have the largest K Street lobbyists... you'll be surprised.)
Finally, several people pointed out the fallacy in the "government-needs-money-so-we-should-have-another-tax" argument... this asserts the unsubstantiated claim that the government's current spending is all worthy of funding. Yes, the government "needs" money, but perhaps we should consider how effectively and efficiently we are using each dollar of spending? And rather than presupposing that the current budget deficit necessitates additional taxes, why not realistically evaluate current spending?
As for myths, there are two in particular that appear more than once and are widely believed to be true. These are more than just false; they have been accepted by large numbers of people without critical analysis, and have thereby altered conclusions about a long list of social issues. If you don't believe the next two points, I recommend you go out and do a little research yourself.
First, fast food is NOT cheaper than many, much healthier alternatives. A holistic cost-benefit analysis demonstrates that a "fast food" meal is much more expensive than shopping wisely and then preparing your own meal. (Yeah, that means a person needs to do a little thinking, know some basic math, and plan ahead. And that also includes healthcare costs in the future, labor costs, opportunity costs, ... the list goes on.) In short, "fast food" is only cheaper if you do a rather narrow, simplistic evaluation of costs and benefits. Consider more variables, and the conclusion changes.
The second myth (and this one is particularly misleading) is that the poor do not have access to anything but junk food. Some people are spitting rage at their computer monitors after reading that. How dare I call it a myth? Well, it is. EVERYONE in the United States has access to groceries which are healthier than fast food outlets. That doesn't mean they have "perfect" access, nor that they have access to the absolutely healthiest food. But the threshold here is whether they have access to grocery options that are, for comparable costs and given wise personal choices, simply healthier than fast food. Sure, maybe its not a wide-range of farm-fresh "organic" options of eight types of onions and six types of milk, but the basic staples and ingredients for a healthy meal ARE available. (Before the criticism starts flying, I'm not getting this only from Ivory Tower academic studies; I have lived and worked in some of the worst neighborhoods in the United States, and I have visited every state and a majority of the poorest communities.) This argument - that the poor do no have access to anything but junk food - is demonstratively false. If you don't believe that, go walk through a few neighborhoods- options are there, period. No one is arguing, however, that fast food isn't EASIER to come by... that's probably true. In summary, the myth that the poor do not have access to healthier and more economical groceries (relative to fast food meals) is misleading and unfortunately widespread.
Of course, neither of those myths change the fact that people must be educated to make good decisions. And it doesn't change the fact that people make choices that are bad for them. But, as mentioned numerous times, that doesn't mean that the government should be our nanny. Then again, if we must pay for other people's healthcare in the future, and obesity is associated with 1 out of every 5 dollars in US healthcare, then perhaps we need to find new ways to "encourage" good health? In other words, a good cost-benefit analysis of a "fat tax" depends heavily on the healthcare debate.
And yes, if you hadn't guessed already, I'm an economist.
This site has been extremely helpful in finding wonderful things to do for not alot of money. All of your posts have been helpful as well. I haven't been to Seattle in 15 yrs, so I definitely need to do my research. Thanks to all!
Nope, don't think a fat tax will change anything. What about the 4 month old baby who was denied insurance (think that was overturned, though) for being "obsese". That is pure insanity!
Even if people have to pay more for health insurance, how many will stop eating their fast food meals? Many dieters gain the pounds and smokers have a hard time giving up their cigarettes, too. There is a poll about this here: poll on unhealthy foods being taxed
If a person is not worried about relationships going bad, and complete trust is assumed, what can we do with our asset allocation now to ensure that all estate issues, transfers, costs are minimal upon death?
For example...What is the best way to prevent probate taxes, and income tax burdens for family in your estate planning?
If my adult children (2) are the beneficiaries of term deposits, GIC's, RRSP's, etc, will they avoid all these costs after my death ? What if I transfer ownership of liquid assets to their names now, or is there no taxes later with these items anyways.
Can I transfer my home, in name, to my children now, so that they are not burdened with capital gains issues from my estate later.
I think this fully explains the ideal burden free scenario I am
wondering about.
I agree with Chris. Taxes to discourage behavior are not the direction to go. I say subsidize healthy food and stop subsidizing unhealthy food. That would make healthy food cheaper and unhealthy more expensive, thus accomplishing essentially what you set out to with a sin tax.
Great post and good points by all. In between use and play, why not rent them out to individuals, schools or professionals (production) in your community. Especially the higher quality ones. www.toolzdo.com let's you rent, swap, donate locally all from one site. As far as hand-me-downs costumes, maybe a swap with other families would work better - the costume would be new to all in its new home. Children get weird like that when it comes to siblings. Check out ToolzDo. It's the safer and easier way to rent, swap, give & get free stuff online. You also get to check what your neighbor is up to. Really cool!!!
Great ideas, and they do work. Antother helpful thing is a yearly evaluation of finances. (We do this about the time we learn if my husband is getting a raise of not.) Do the budget categories work, can we skim a bit to get more into savings, do we want to eliminate or add categories, are we moving forward? It takes a chunk of time, but is well worth it.
these are things that i never heard of. particularly the ginger(the first thing that crept into my mind was vampire repellent). They are really useful and i they will help keep me away from the doctor
It is very interesting post! I like the idea of "Choose one time every week or month to spend on "money stuff." I should do this.
It will give me a full greasp of my financial situation.
I have been a Democrat all my life, and it's been a long one. I consider myself as liberal as they come. But what I'm seeing lately is not, in my opinion, true liberalism. To me, being liberal means "Live and let live". It means not trying to control every aspect of other people's lives. It means I'll do my thing and you do yours, as long as neither of us is bringing harm to the other.
It means if I want to smoke, I should be able to. At the same time, I know that my smoking affects others so I agree that we shouldn't do it inside public buildings or in someones home that doesn't smoke inside themselves. Outdoors is a different matter. Then it becomes none of your business. If I'm already standing outside smoking and you don't like smoke, don't stand beside me.
It means if I want to drink, I should be able to, as long as I don't potentially bring harm to others. I shouldn't be able to drive a car, etc.
It means if I want to eat junk food and empty calories, I should be able to as long as I'm not bringing harm to others. Now, the ones who are for taxing "unhealthy" food, please tell me how I am harming you. If your answer is that I will be a burden on health insurance that you are not, maybe you need to be truthful with yourselves about some of your bad choices.
Do you drink alcohol, other or more than the recommended 1-2 glasses of red wine a day? If you do, then you could be a burden on the health care system.
Do you talk on your cell phone while you drive? If so, then you could cause an accident and be a burden on the health care system.
Do you get the recommended amount of sleep each night so that you're alert and able to function safely, and to help your immune system work at it's best? If not, then you could be a burden on the health care system.
Do you engage in a dangerous hobby, such as skydiving, bungee jumping, skiing, football, racing, etc.? If so, you could be a burden on the health care system.
I don't have much money and I struggle daily to make it until the next payday. After the outrageous tobacco tax President Obama sprung on us without warning or telling us he was going to do that to get the money for the extra health insurance for children before he was elected, I've had to cut way back on smoking and am now buying the cheapest cigarettes I can find, after smoking the same brand for the past 20 years. I know it's bad for me, but I'm the one with the habit and it's no one's business but mine. Yet, I'm being made to feel like a criminal for doing something people have done for years without any grief from others. Where did the "we'll just tax the wealthy their fair share" go? Taxing tobacco even more just hits the poor and middle class in their pocketbooks. The rich can still easily afford their tobacco. And now you want to tax me for eating what I can afford, or want??
Maybe I don't care for eating broccoli and rabbit food all the time. Maybe you have no business in my business, as I don't in yours.
This is why I have changed my mind about health care reform, especially the public option. I was all for it until I realized the middle class, poor, and targeted groups of people are going to foot the bill. Now I hope it doesn't go through.
I don't belong anywhere now. Republicans want to control other countries, and Democrats want to control the people in their own country. Both are wrong. Both parties are control freaks. Please leave other people alone and mind your own business. Stay out of my life and stop trying to control everything I do. Don't you have enough to worry about in your own lives without being in mine?
After reading a tip about paying a bill as soon as it arrives (and I use easy on-line banking), life has become simpler. I use a three-ring binder to organize bills by month.
Paying as soon as the bill arrives means that I don't leave open the possibility of late charges, just because I become too busy to pay the bill.
I also strive to have as few bills as possible. Some bills are deducted directly from my bank account. I use my debit card and only one credit card.
Donno about these. Could it all be just old wives tales?
I think getting sick is quite mental. If you believe you won't get sick, you seldom get sick. My mom used to always tell me i'd catch cold if i didn't dry my hair right away. I didn't dry, and I got sick.
Think healthy and be healthy!
Keigu,
Financial Samurai
"Slicing Through Money's Mysteries"
Taking a couple of dropperfuls of Osha root tincture as soon as you begin to get symptoms can also ward off a cold or flu. Osha is a native plant of the Rockies, and its root has antibacterial and antiviral properties. I have used its tincture for several years nw and it has worked well for me. I save money by making my own tincture: get an ounce of Osha root from an herb store. Put it in high proof vodka or grain alcohol (Everclear) and equal parts water. Put the mixture in a covered jar, store in a cupboard, and shake it up every day. After two weeks, strain and refrigerate.
Okay . . . so what does one do with ALL the prospectus staff we get with/about investments? Right now, we get it via mail. I don't want it on-line as there is way too much stuff there already to keep track of. Since I don't understand it, I don't read it, file it, or keep it. I may regret it one day but I think all the paper is a waste of good trees.
Thanks for the tips. You have provided some very concrete advice.
I wish i could wave a magic wand to make it all happen! I have found that moving from paper to electronic statements has been one of the great ways to reduce clutter.
These are some very good tips - natural and common sense goes a long way in life.
I finally found a place to get my soybean in bulk for cheap. Found it by doing a search on the internet.
bulkfoods.com
I now buy my vital wheat gluten in large bulk bags also.
I try to buy 75.00 worth of stuff to get free freight.
I like making my own wheat bread so I get my flour there.
Beans, Nuts also.
I was definitely surprised by the emotion expressed throughout these comments. Several people brought up some excellent arguments, but a few people fell back on some rather worn and simply incorrect claims. But hey, I'm just happy that most people are applying some sort of cost-benefit analysis to this policy discussion.
First, I'm glad that so many people mentioned taking a harder look at government subsidies. That is rightfully and rationally the first step. Second, many wise people pointed out that defining "junk food" would be incredibly difficult and not nearly as easy as the article suggests. Would it be so difficult, however, that it's best not to try? I dunno- that's a topic for additional debate. Several comments rightfully pointed out that the DC lobby-machine would dive head-first into that discussion, with the rational intent of influencing the outcome. Why? Because the livelihoods of people-- not just rich "fat cats", but the jobs and wages of all types of people in entire industries -- would be on the line. (I'm continually surprised how many people think that only evil "big business" has lobbyists - when you get a chance, go check out which organizations have the largest K Street lobbyists... you'll be surprised.)
Finally, several people pointed out the fallacy in the "government-needs-money-so-we-should-have-another-tax" argument... this asserts the unsubstantiated claim that the government's current spending is all worthy of funding. Yes, the government "needs" money, but perhaps we should consider how effectively and efficiently we are using each dollar of spending? And rather than presupposing that the current budget deficit necessitates additional taxes, why not realistically evaluate current spending?
As for myths, there are two in particular that appear more than once and are widely believed to be true. These are more than just false; they have been accepted by large numbers of people without critical analysis, and have thereby altered conclusions about a long list of social issues. If you don't believe the next two points, I recommend you go out and do a little research yourself.
First, fast food is NOT cheaper than many, much healthier alternatives. A holistic cost-benefit analysis demonstrates that a "fast food" meal is much more expensive than shopping wisely and then preparing your own meal. (Yeah, that means a person needs to do a little thinking, know some basic math, and plan ahead. And that also includes healthcare costs in the future, labor costs, opportunity costs, ... the list goes on.) In short, "fast food" is only cheaper if you do a rather narrow, simplistic evaluation of costs and benefits. Consider more variables, and the conclusion changes.
The second myth (and this one is particularly misleading) is that the poor do not have access to anything but junk food. Some people are spitting rage at their computer monitors after reading that. How dare I call it a myth? Well, it is. EVERYONE in the United States has access to groceries which are healthier than fast food outlets. That doesn't mean they have "perfect" access, nor that they have access to the absolutely healthiest food. But the threshold here is whether they have access to grocery options that are, for comparable costs and given wise personal choices, simply healthier than fast food. Sure, maybe its not a wide-range of farm-fresh "organic" options of eight types of onions and six types of milk, but the basic staples and ingredients for a healthy meal ARE available. (Before the criticism starts flying, I'm not getting this only from Ivory Tower academic studies; I have lived and worked in some of the worst neighborhoods in the United States, and I have visited every state and a majority of the poorest communities.) This argument - that the poor do no have access to anything but junk food - is demonstratively false. If you don't believe that, go walk through a few neighborhoods- options are there, period. No one is arguing, however, that fast food isn't EASIER to come by... that's probably true. In summary, the myth that the poor do not have access to healthier and more economical groceries (relative to fast food meals) is misleading and unfortunately widespread.
Of course, neither of those myths change the fact that people must be educated to make good decisions. And it doesn't change the fact that people make choices that are bad for them. But, as mentioned numerous times, that doesn't mean that the government should be our nanny. Then again, if we must pay for other people's healthcare in the future, and obesity is associated with 1 out of every 5 dollars in US healthcare, then perhaps we need to find new ways to "encourage" good health? In other words, a good cost-benefit analysis of a "fat tax" depends heavily on the healthcare debate.
And yes, if you hadn't guessed already, I'm an economist.
You also have to keep in mind that today, you're not going to be able to find a business credit card, with the economy the way it is going.
This site has been extremely helpful in finding wonderful things to do for not alot of money. All of your posts have been helpful as well. I haven't been to Seattle in 15 yrs, so I definitely need to do my research. Thanks to all!
Nope, don't think a fat tax will change anything. What about the 4 month old baby who was denied insurance (think that was overturned, though) for being "obsese". That is pure insanity!
Even if people have to pay more for health insurance, how many will stop eating their fast food meals? Many dieters gain the pounds and smokers have a hard time giving up their cigarettes, too. There is a poll about this here: poll on unhealthy foods being taxed
The best cure for a cold or flu is not to get sick in the first place. Here are a few tips to prevent getting sick in the first place:
Wash your hands frequently.
Keep your hands aware from your face.
Drink hot liquids.
Gargle with salt water (or listerine in you don't want the salt).
If a person is not worried about relationships going bad, and complete trust is assumed, what can we do with our asset allocation now to ensure that all estate issues, transfers, costs are minimal upon death?
For example...What is the best way to prevent probate taxes, and income tax burdens for family in your estate planning?
If my adult children (2) are the beneficiaries of term deposits, GIC's, RRSP's, etc, will they avoid all these costs after my death ? What if I transfer ownership of liquid assets to their names now, or is there no taxes later with these items anyways.
Can I transfer my home, in name, to my children now, so that they are not burdened with capital gains issues from my estate later.
I think this fully explains the ideal burden free scenario I am
wondering about.
Your assistance is appreciated. Thanks.
I agree with Chris. Taxes to discourage behavior are not the direction to go. I say subsidize healthy food and stop subsidizing unhealthy food. That would make healthy food cheaper and unhealthy more expensive, thus accomplishing essentially what you set out to with a sin tax.
Great post and good points by all. In between use and play, why not rent them out to individuals, schools or professionals (production) in your community. Especially the higher quality ones. www.toolzdo.com let's you rent, swap, donate locally all from one site. As far as hand-me-downs costumes, maybe a swap with other families would work better - the costume would be new to all in its new home. Children get weird like that when it comes to siblings. Check out ToolzDo. It's the safer and easier way to rent, swap, give & get free stuff online. You also get to check what your neighbor is up to. Really cool!!!
I prefer natural food like Chicken Soup. This is good idea.
I too liked your blog
Great ideas, and they do work. Antother helpful thing is a yearly evaluation of finances. (We do this about the time we learn if my husband is getting a raise of not.) Do the budget categories work, can we skim a bit to get more into savings, do we want to eliminate or add categories, are we moving forward? It takes a chunk of time, but is well worth it.
these are things that i never heard of. particularly the ginger(the first thing that crept into my mind was vampire repellent). They are really useful and i they will help keep me away from the doctor
I wish to have this kind of opportunity soon..but indeed you are right. Self discipline is very important for this type of career.
It is very interesting post! I like the idea of "Choose one time every week or month to spend on "money stuff." I should do this.
It will give me a full greasp of my financial situation.
Cheers
I have been a Democrat all my life, and it's been a long one. I consider myself as liberal as they come. But what I'm seeing lately is not, in my opinion, true liberalism. To me, being liberal means "Live and let live". It means not trying to control every aspect of other people's lives. It means I'll do my thing and you do yours, as long as neither of us is bringing harm to the other.
It means if I want to smoke, I should be able to. At the same time, I know that my smoking affects others so I agree that we shouldn't do it inside public buildings or in someones home that doesn't smoke inside themselves. Outdoors is a different matter. Then it becomes none of your business. If I'm already standing outside smoking and you don't like smoke, don't stand beside me.
It means if I want to drink, I should be able to, as long as I don't potentially bring harm to others. I shouldn't be able to drive a car, etc.
It means if I want to eat junk food and empty calories, I should be able to as long as I'm not bringing harm to others. Now, the ones who are for taxing "unhealthy" food, please tell me how I am harming you. If your answer is that I will be a burden on health insurance that you are not, maybe you need to be truthful with yourselves about some of your bad choices.
Do you drink alcohol, other or more than the recommended 1-2 glasses of red wine a day? If you do, then you could be a burden on the health care system.
Do you talk on your cell phone while you drive? If so, then you could cause an accident and be a burden on the health care system.
Do you get the recommended amount of sleep each night so that you're alert and able to function safely, and to help your immune system work at it's best? If not, then you could be a burden on the health care system.
Do you engage in a dangerous hobby, such as skydiving, bungee jumping, skiing, football, racing, etc.? If so, you could be a burden on the health care system.
I don't have much money and I struggle daily to make it until the next payday. After the outrageous tobacco tax President Obama sprung on us without warning or telling us he was going to do that to get the money for the extra health insurance for children before he was elected, I've had to cut way back on smoking and am now buying the cheapest cigarettes I can find, after smoking the same brand for the past 20 years. I know it's bad for me, but I'm the one with the habit and it's no one's business but mine. Yet, I'm being made to feel like a criminal for doing something people have done for years without any grief from others. Where did the "we'll just tax the wealthy their fair share" go? Taxing tobacco even more just hits the poor and middle class in their pocketbooks. The rich can still easily afford their tobacco. And now you want to tax me for eating what I can afford, or want??
Maybe I don't care for eating broccoli and rabbit food all the time. Maybe you have no business in my business, as I don't in yours.
This is why I have changed my mind about health care reform, especially the public option. I was all for it until I realized the middle class, poor, and targeted groups of people are going to foot the bill. Now I hope it doesn't go through.
I don't belong anywhere now. Republicans want to control other countries, and Democrats want to control the people in their own country. Both are wrong. Both parties are control freaks. Please leave other people alone and mind your own business. Stay out of my life and stop trying to control everything I do. Don't you have enough to worry about in your own lives without being in mine?
bless this post with love,peace,respect and success.
just let love be
6jaonD http://mMs93Hfppskd6wngIosSu.net
After reading a tip about paying a bill as soon as it arrives (and I use easy on-line banking), life has become simpler. I use a three-ring binder to organize bills by month.
Paying as soon as the bill arrives means that I don't leave open the possibility of late charges, just because I become too busy to pay the bill.
I also strive to have as few bills as possible. Some bills are deducted directly from my bank account. I use my debit card and only one credit card.
Donno about these. Could it all be just old wives tales?
I think getting sick is quite mental. If you believe you won't get sick, you seldom get sick. My mom used to always tell me i'd catch cold if i didn't dry my hair right away. I didn't dry, and I got sick.
Think healthy and be healthy!
Keigu,
Financial Samurai
"Slicing Through Money's Mysteries"
Taking a couple of dropperfuls of Osha root tincture as soon as you begin to get symptoms can also ward off a cold or flu. Osha is a native plant of the Rockies, and its root has antibacterial and antiviral properties. I have used its tincture for several years nw and it has worked well for me. I save money by making my own tincture: get an ounce of Osha root from an herb store. Put it in high proof vodka or grain alcohol (Everclear) and equal parts water. Put the mixture in a covered jar, store in a cupboard, and shake it up every day. After two weeks, strain and refrigerate.
Okay . . . so what does one do with ALL the prospectus staff we get with/about investments? Right now, we get it via mail. I don't want it on-line as there is way too much stuff there already to keep track of. Since I don't understand it, I don't read it, file it, or keep it. I may regret it one day but I think all the paper is a waste of good trees.
I hit the tea hard when I come down with something, especially ginger tea. Anyone use a neti pot? I've heard good things about 'em.