Articles by A.B. (Staff Writer)

Yesterday I received the news that so many others have heard, my job will be coming to an end. Luckily, my boss was very kind, and has alerted me three months in advance with the hopes that I will be able to find something else. At this moment I’m hoping it will give me the [...]

Starting a business on a budget is no easy task. There’s always a product, gadget, gimmick, or location that someone’s willing to convince you that you need — the worst part is when you’re convincing yourself. After signing papers on my own space last Tuesday, I’m right in the thick of it, but got some [...]

Ohana, multi-family living, “boomerang children”. No matter what you call it, extended families living under one roof or on one property can be a cultural norm or a way to cope with the financial difficulties that many are facing. Many say it’s “Easier said than done.” They are correct. There are many issues to work [...]

The first step to buying a used car is choosing a vehicle, or at least narrowing your options. Ask yourself: How many passengers do you regularly carry? What sort of trunk or cargo space do you need? What is the minimum gas mileage a car has that will stay within your budget? What would your [...]

This week, when you find yourself scrambling for a last minute gift, dreading the shopping malls, you may be able to take advantage of regifting. During any time of gift-giving, from weddings to baby showers, Christmas and birthdays, you inevitably unwrap at least one present, and are rewarded with pure puzzlement. A myriad of thoughts [...]

While I always loved having turkey with my family each year, I dreaded the days that followed. It is my firm belief that the reason turkey is primarily consumed at only three times of year (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter) is that the thought of more than three weeks of turkey leftovers per year turns the [...]

Last week, when the President signs the expanded aid package, my husband and I (and many others) breathe a collective sigh of relief. The expanded aid package includes a seven month extension of the First Time Home Buyer Credit. While many people do not support the extension, I am grateful for it. Granted, my position [...]

Having a pet can bring great joy, laughter and comfort to all around. Unfortunately, they can also mean additional, even unexpected, expenses in today’s already tough economy. According to the ASPCA, approximately 500,000 to 1,000,000 cats and dogs are currently in danger of abandonment due to the economic downturn. While caring for a pet is [...]

At least quarterly, Mr. B and I try to take a look at our budget. How is it (or isn’t it) working? Since we are considering buying a house, we have also been looking for ways to slice our budget without bleeding. From out experience, here are some tips on how to create a budget. [...]