Money & Finance #59: Credit, Money Management, and Saving

1) After reading "How credit scores work" and taking the quiz ( my score was 90%,) even I already know it's affected everything in life, but it's still surprise how much what is linked to the score. Recently I put a new car loan application at my bank and learn about my score in the low 800/850. I got the best interest rate available. I guess all careful planning and on time paying bill are really paid off.

2) I created an Excel spread sheet to record all daily and monthly expenses. I found it easy to track down how much money in and where does it go. Having my mortgage, emergency, retirement and investment funds automatic draft, it leaves me.... what I have to work with. I don't have any problem with it at all.

3) I am not a county employee so I cannot participate in the TCDRS. Read thru it, I think it's a good plan, it guarantees 7% on return no matter how up or down market is. Very steady! This will make a lot easier when you sit down and plan your retirement.

Money & Finance #58: Banking, Budgeting, and Spending

1) I have used banking on line for a while now and I like it very much. At my bank, Houston Federal Credit Union, I get it free of charge because I have an automatic directly deposited. With banking on line, I can check my account and pay my bill at anytime and anywhere I want. I even can set up a routine bank draft such as an investment or mortgage. I believe the bank has a way to keep us safe and secure. I feel ok with banking on line.

2) I used Mint.com to plan a budget and checked on my credit report for a few years. I even used Mint.com to keep track with my investment, it let me know am I on track with my plan or I need to diversify more. I created an Excel spread sheet for my every day spending or compare month to month utilities. So far everything works fine and I am on top of it. I have checked some of the recommended web site but I get used to with what I do, I understand the concept so it saves me time.

3) I understand we need to save but don’t be too greedy, it make life no fun. As long as I am not going over budget, I am ok. I think if I am willing to work for what i want, I deserve it. I am not in debt and still have extra to give away, a healthy and comfy life style, it’s acceptable.

Pot Luck #57: TXT U L8R - Texting

Texting. It’s sure a new generation thing but it doesn't limit anyone, I think. I have done that.... many times to my kids and close friends. Usually I keep it's short, just want to say hi, happy b-day!, ... or some needed message and you have no way to write it down such as a phone number, an appointment date and time ... so simple like that, I do not use silly text as in Lingo 2 Word. Most of the phone has a preset message and it let you presetting yourself too.

One time while riding a bus to downtown, I play catch-up with my son by texting. You don't want to talk private in public, and time sitting on the bus can be long to ... forever. I'm so glad to have a way to make the trip shorter and the same time spending with people you love.

About texting while driving (even talking on the phone) I definitely against it. It’s not just danger to you but to somebody else as well. I do hope people realize it and be smart to not doing it, keeping the road safer.