Most of us know we should save money, it’s good financial sense. Yet, it’s easier said than done, especially when you feel strapped or broke on a daily basis.

For me, I began developing an interest in long-term investing after exploring career paths. My first real exposure to the concept of investing came in the form of an unpaid internship at a boutique sized investment bank in Los Angeles.

The average cost of a home nationwide is $199,900, though in more expensive states like Colorado, California, and New York, the average price zooms up to over $435,000. Everyone knows downsizing to a smaller home is greener, but did you also know it makes shrewd financial sense?

With many schools starting this month, I’m giving away a FUL olive green backpack with a cable-reinforced handle – perfect for the high school or college kid on the go. I personally carry a backpack, myself, on any given day.

Here it is 8 months into 2013 and I’m not so sure I’m on target with my New Year’s Resolutions. To be honest, if I didn’t write them here at this blog, I don’t think I’d even remember what they were! However, looking back at my January post, I kept my “resolutions” minimal and realistic: