While we are talking about money stuff, before you start spending your raise, inheritance, or whatever money, make sure you have either a savings account or an envelope in your top dresser drawer (or where ever you want your secret stash to be) that equals or exceeds SIX months worth of living expenses. This lessens the panic when you suddenly have a car repair, child’s braces, new fridge, job loss or any of the other ‘surprises’ in life.