KNOWWHAT YOUWANT
Start With a Full Pot of Honey in the New Year
TAKE A BREAK goals is crucial, but before you can do that, you need to know where you stand. Look through savings accounts, checking accounts, credit cards, and investments. Find out where your money goes! Addressing this may feel stressful, but it will allow you to set realistic expectations for the year. “Did you ever stop to think, and forget to start again?” –Eeyore Jan. 18 is Winnie the Pooh Day, a celebration of author A.A. Milne’s lovable characters. Each one has something we remember them by: Eeyore is always down and sad, Tigger is bouncy and bubbly, Pooh is silly and sweet, an Roo is curious and adventurous. When it comes to gathering important documents needed for taxes, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, but don’t be an Eeyore — embrace Roo’s adventurous spirit and forge ahead! As you’re putting your documents in order, here are 10 strategies to get you on track. 1. Assess where you are. Setting financial
2. Create a budget. One of the best things you can do for your finances is set a budget. However, once done, you have to stick to it! 3. Use personal finance software. Knowledge is power. For example, how much did you spend at the movies last year? With finance software, you can know the answer with just a click. 4. Prioritize your debts. Not all debt is equal — make a list based on interest rates and pay the highest off first. 5. Pay off your debt. Interest is stealing money from you, so paying off debts now will enable you to invest it in the future. 6. Keep spending to a minimum. If you are a spender, you might need to change your habits. Study your budget and see where you can cut spending. 7. Plan for retirement. Retirement is coming and you should be prepared for it. Figure out how much you need to live
the retirement lifestyle you want, and set a plan to make it happen. 8. Read a financial book each month. The printed word is amazing because it allows you to communicate directly with the most brilliant financial minds. Picking up a finance book is an excellent way to get the advice you need. 9. Create clear and concise goals for the year. Focus on where you want to go and how you’re going to get there. Creating a step-by-step guide will allow you to celebrate your small victories along the way. 10. Stay organized. Organization is critical to meeting your financial goals for the year. When it comes to your personal budget, the more organized you are the better. As you’re following these tips, harness the energy of Tigger and get organized!
SAVORYWINTER SOUP
Ingredients
Inspired by tasteofhome.com
• 2 pounds ground beef • 3 medium onions, chopped • 1 garlic clove, minced • 3 cans (10 1/2 ounces each) condensed beef broth, undiluted • 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained • 3 cups water • 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced • 1 cup fresh or frozen cut green beans • 1 cup cubed potatoes, peeled • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced, or 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes • 1 teaspoon dried basil • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme • Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
To save chopping time, use frozen sliced carrots and cubed hash brown potatoes in savory winter soup. 1. In a large skillet, cook beef and onions over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain. 2. Transfer to a 5-quart slow cooker. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on low until vegetables are tender, 6-8 hours.
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