Krista and Doug, when I saw on social media that you were engaged, I couldn’t have been more pleased. What wonderful news!
This little blog is a reflection on discussions Christina and I have had recently; what we wish we knew when we first got together a lifetime ago in 2012.
1) We would have had more discussions about how we wanted to treat our family finances before we got married. We haven’t had many conflicts over money in our relationship, but with Christina being a natural saver and me being a spender, we could have made accommodations to fit both of our tendencies better.
2) We would have sat down every pay cheque and given every dollar a job with a written zero dollar based budget. You can tell your money where to go or you can wonder where it went.
3) I would have listened to Christina’s gut instinct - my wife’s gut instinct is strong and accurate. Every time I ignore Christina’s gut instinct, it costs me at least 10,000 dollars.
4) There’s so much worthwhile reading on personal finance, relationships and marriage. As I’ve recently started reading for pleasure and utilizing our local library more, I am strongly enjoying all the different perspectives on so many subjects.
5) It’s not sophisticated to buy on credit to get points or miles. Minimum payments are a joke that help bank executives build better cottages and ensure you won’t own one, and car payments are a great way to stay middle-class. Debt is dumb, cash is king.
6) Looking back screws with your neck.
As our engagement gift to you, I am going to send you a copy of Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover, a book we read in early 2019 which has been an absolute game-changer for us as a couple.
Krista and Doug, you have our love and support and we look forward to your wedding!
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