The New Date Night

A couple of weeks ago, I traveled with my family to Chicago for a continuing education conference. Our schedule went something like this: I get up early, learn fun new tax and accounting information in the morning, attempt nap time with my tired and cranky 4 and 2.5 year old while my husband and I sit in a dark hotel room reading our kindles (what would we have done in the past?!?), pray that they would fall asleep quickly and soundly so we could do something together later in the afternoon, without a major meltdown. Some days this worked and some days we had major meltdowns 🙂

Baby Learning to SaveOne morning I was sitting in class learning fun new tax and accounting information and the instructor started talking about not only taking control of your financial situation, but also being motivated to do so. It got me thinking about my first blog post and the role mothers traditionally play in managing the family finances. How many of us moms, whether working, staying at home, or both, are fully aware of our families’ financial situation? Do you pay the bills; know how much is in your checking account? Do you know how much your family is saving, if you are saving, and what type of financial instrument you are saving with? Does your family have savings plans for your children’s education, or for retirement? Perhaps you do. Maybe you are the one in charge of this part of your family, and I commend you if so. But maybe you aren’t. I challenge you to get motivated and to get informed. Sit down with your husband. As a matter of fact, make it a monthly date night. Break open a bottle of wine and get out the bank statements and calculators. Talk to each other about where things are financially and where you can improve. Find out how you are saving, and if you aren’t, see how you can start. Just becoming informed of your own financial situation is a huge first step. You may have some great ideas about better ways to save or maybe you saw a tidbit in the news about a certain stock to invest in. It is important to take control as a family of this part of your life, not only for you, but for your children as well. Your kids will see you taking an interest in this and may start asking questions. What better way to start introducing the world of money and saving to your children than by example?

So pick a night, get your bottle of choice (mine is Pinot Noir as of late), and get calculating. It all starts with the first step. And who knows, you may enjoy it. Oh, and if you are ever are in Chicago with two little ones, two words. Children’s Museum. Every day. All day.

Cheryl
Cheryl Leddy is both a mom and a C.P.A. in her native Jacksonville, FL. Upon graduating from the University of Florida, her love for Jacksonville brought her back to the First Coast where she began her career and her family. She and her husband have three curly-haired children, Nate, Evelyn, and Whit, whom she adores, but who constantly keep her on her toes! Cheryl is fortunate to be able to work as a C.P.A. at Farmand, Farmand, and Farmand, LLP while also being home with her children (except during the dreaded “tax season”!). Her favorite parts about living in Jacksonville are the great family and kid-friendly activities, the proximity to the beach, as well as the short drive to Gainesville, where she can keep up with the Florida Gators (her first true love)! She is excited to share some tax and financial tips that can benefit all moms and growing families…hope you enjoy!

5 COMMENTS

  1. I’ve always wanted to do this, get involved in the finances, but just never have. My husband would love it if I did. What a great way to start, with a bottle of wine!!! Great idea!

  2. Love this Cheryl! Wives definitely need to be involved and know exactly what you own, what financial institution its located and your usernames and passwords to access it because you have to be prepared for every situation ladies. My husband recently deployed and I had to take the reins on all of this and I’m really glad I’ve stayed involved all along so it wasn’t such a painful transition.

  3. Your post reminded me just how much I need to get back in the financial loop with my family. I was really involved, but after having a baby four months ago, I have become a bit of a financial slacker. Time for me to get in gear! Thanks for the reminder!

  4. I am the one in our family that takes care of the bills, education funds, etc. I totally agree with you Cheryl that women need to play this role or at least be aware of the family’s financial situation. Congrats on your blog! Keep it up.

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