by Dr Peggy on January 15, 2013
When a teenager starts making noises about not wanting to go to college, the usual response for parents is a major anxiety attack. Yes, yes there are teens who have clear and appropriate life goals that do not require a college education. This is not the post debating technical versus general education. Instead, this post refers to high school students who have good grades, are excelling academically, are active in activities and have always seen themselves as attending college.
But even these students are beginning to be part of the group asking “Why am I going to college again?” “Can I afford to go to college?” “Will I be able to pay back what I owe?”
On the blog Frugal Dad I found this very profoundly interesting – and somewhat depressing – infographic. Take a look.
Now you may be thinking that this website must be all about not attending college. You would be wrong. Instead, frugal dad talks about all of the ways you can help your child get an education, because even with all of the above facts, it is still the best chance our children have of some element of financial security. Take a look at his suggestions and remember to start as soon as you can!
by Dr Peggy on December 18, 2012
There are no more words that can be spoken about the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School. We refer you to all of the stories of help and support and comfort.
Instead, we would like to suggest a new exercise that we all should begin. It’s purpose is not to increase your heart rate – although that may happen. It’s purpose is not to decrease your weight – although that may happen. It’s purpose is to exercise our grateful muscle.
Being grateful is something that we tend to ignore. We just take for granted that we have a family who loves us. We know that our children or our parents or our grandparents love us. We know they are there and that they will be there if we need them. We just know.
The Grateful Exercise requires that you stop each morning – even before you place your feet on the floor – and write down three things that make your grateful. They can be huge or small, essential or trivial. What they are doesn’t really matter. What matters is that you take those precious moments before you start your day to acknowledge what you have. Every morning. And get your children involved. Ask them at breakfast or in the car on the way to school, or whenever is best for you and them.
Gratefulness is a state of mind. It’s a place we need to be right now.
Happy Holidays to you and yours.
