Essentials - Ramit

New segment today that I'm really excited about:

Raine's Essentials are things that I couldn't live with out, things I wouldn't have survived the past 2 years without, and things I desperately NEED want!

Pregnant with momo twins, and facing a 7 week hospital inpatient stay, the first thing I remember doing:  setting my finances in order.  I do the finances in our family. Pregnant = forgetful.  I set up everything to be as automated as possible....and then I stumbled across this lovely book:

Before I spent $10 on the book, I'd read posts from Ramit's website. I like his style--boy's got spunk.  He doesn't hold back.  Lifehacker interviews him here. He's been on NPR, morning shows, newspapers, etc.

Best $10 I ever spent.  I'd saved myself $29 in fees by the end of the first week.  Since then I've MADE (tax free) money with a Roth IRA for retirement.  I knew nothing about investing before I grabbed his book.

(He also has a continuing segment called the money diaries that I enjoy.)

OK - and here's the best part  - after reading his book...the 2 times when I found myself with financial questions that weren't already answered, I emailed him.  Both times, he responded within 10 minutes (even though it was after midnight!) and we chatted until my questions were resolved.  Now I'm not saying it's gonna be that way for everyone...but I found it pretty amazing! (I wonder if he's figured out how to get around the whole need-sleep issue.)

Anyway, go check out his website and his book.  You'll be glad you did. 

(No paid promotions were involved in this post--just my unsolicited opinion.)

My Bright, Bright Sun-Shiny Day...

[Pictured:  Beautiful Rabbit, Strong Bear, Delightful Finch

Seraph, and Angel-Roo]

The sun came out today just long enough to take everyone outside for some playtime!


We're applying for disability and medical aid for Seraph.  Her congenital heart defect (and complications) are on the the disabilities list.  The latest form asked me to compare Seraph's activities and abilities to that of a normal child her age.  ...like Angel?  My mom told me never to compare my twins.  Twins HATE that!!

Mom also taught me to be optimistic.

It was physically and emotionally draining to write out all of Seraph's challenges from birth to present.

I have learned soooo much over the past 2 years--warning signs, tips & tricks, precautions, etc.  I'm thinking of writing a book.  I love writing.  There are so many things that I wish someone had mentioned to me - things that could have helped Seraph not spend so much of her first years in the ICU if only I'd known them sooner.  Plus, maybe writing it will help me pull out of the funk that her disability forms have smashed me into.