It’s show and tell time!
There isn’t much that makes me happier than looking at old pics of children. Even the ugliest of adults was once a beautiful, smiling baby.
We were cleaning out boxes of old photographs to scan and store when we came across this gem on the left.
In my mind, this picture was taken yesterday,
and yet my twins are now 16 years old.
Holy s$%! I’m old!
This time next year they will have been accepted at a college of their choice.
In less than two years Cheryl and I will be here alone.
I’ve met plenty of people who’ve said “I can’t save for that yet.”
The key word: yet.
Here’s my perspective: Time runs away.
That’s why I sock money away. What motivates you to save?
Joe is a former financial advisor and media representative for American Express and Ameriprise. He was the “Money Man” at Detroit television WXYZ-TV, appearing twice weekly. He’s also appeared in Bride, Best Life, and Child magazines, the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Sun-Times, Detroit News and Baltimore Sun newspapers and numerous other media outlets. Joe holds B.A Degrees from The Citadel and Michigan State University.
Cute kiddos! It’s crazy how time flies…
The idea of retiring and being completely financially independent really is what motivates me. How great would it be to not have to rely on a paycheck to survive?
I’d love to travel, volunteer, travel, and simply be free.
Thanks, Jason! Their good looks come from their mother, I assure you.
I don’t want to put words in your mouth, but it seems to me that being independent is the important part for you. From the little I’ve gotten to know you, I don’t see you as the “retiring” type.
I save money for the same reason–my daughter. She’s only 5 so we have a while before college but I have to start now. 12 years is going to pass very, very quickly.
Your twins are too cute, and they’re famous now!
Can I be allowed to say I’m not saving for the child’s college yet, since I’m currently cash flowing the husband’s college and, well, don’t actually have the child yet?
But I agree, given that we’re also considering an alternative (and therefor private) education for the child we don’t yet have, saving for education costs is definitely high on our priority list.
Absolutely, Erin! Everyone isn’t saving for twins. I’d actually advise against it (unless you’d like to help save for mine!).
Judging from the photo, I would definitely say that those are two of the most beautiful reasons I have ever seem to save. I’d love to see what they look like now.
In any event, the reason I save is for future security. I want to feel confident that I have enough money socked away for my golden years.
Thanks, Anthony!
I wish more people felt the need for future security. I think people are pretty wrapped up in the “now” game, sadly.
They’re so sweet!!! It’s true what you said; even ugly adults were once cute. There’s a reason why child stars don’t turn into adult stars often. Sorry kid…you’re just not cute anymore. The ones that stay cute…stay employed! I digress….good points, Joe! My kids are the reason I want to be a better person in ALL facets of my life, but definitely my finances as well.
Your comment, Michelle, reminds me of when I was a financial contributor at my local TV station. I began working as an advisor for some of the female talent (anchors, weather, etc.). They felt the same way many child stars must feel. There’s a total double standard. A man in TV reaches a certain age and he was sure to look “distinguished” with grey hair. My client would turn 40-45 and felt the clock ticking because the tv station would think she was “too old.”
Awww this IS so sweet! I must say, though, that I know some attractive adults. I’ve seen their baby pictures. Not all of them were cute. Haha. But in all seriousness, that’s the reason I’m trying to get my finances in order. Hands down. Time flies and I want to be the best parent I can be.
Hey, they have hair!
Enjoy, the last two years go faster than the first 16 it seems to me. So many things going on, homecoming, prom, and college apps, oh my.
Of course empty nest ROCKS.
They definitely are screwed in the future on the hair end, Dr. Dean, coming from me….
I think longingly about empty nest when the family is fighting and nobody wants to claim the four dishes in the sink….
Time does run away, no question about it! I do think of kids’ college education, but also about retirement. Don’t want to be old, in lesser health, and needing to work!
Number One Son is also out of the nest in a couple years. Damn…
Haha, I swear my mother had similar photos of me when I was a lad in a similar position, I can imagine her whipping one out just to show and embarrass me for a laugh. Bless her!