It’s so much fun in the fall to go to Chelan, Washington, and visit with my high school classmates. Lake Chelan is so beautiful. And new, since I lived there, are wineries, a fantastic diversification to the famous apple industry of Central Washington. My sister and I, both graduates of... Read more →

In the past, I haven’t had much of a problem buying souvenirs when I’ve been on vacation. They just seem to be plentiful at tourist spots. Madrid, Paris, London, San Francisco, Miami, Seattle. I have post cards from them all. Not so much from museums. I love museums, but I’ve... Read more →

My niece asked me to send some photos of our ancestors from 1910 and 1920 to share with her book club. Of course, I said, and the memories began to flow. How are you doing organizing your family historical photos? Do you have them in notebooks? Are they scanned? I... Read more →

For most summers, my daughter Lisa, who lives in Madrid, visits me with her kids, Rafa and Cecilia. Although the visits are shorter now that the kids are older and want to spend more time with their friends, we had a great time. Fun times included a barbecue, swimming, walking in an arboretum and parks, dining out, and a July Fourth celebration. Read more →

It made me happy this morning so see so many loving stories about fathers on Facebook today, when Americans gather to celebrate Father’s Day or remember their dads who have passed away. Not everyone has positive memories of their dad and today may be a challenging day for them. Here are facts and figures for Father’s Day this year. Read more →

When I’ve had a consumer complaint recently, several times the customer service representative has said to me “I’m sorry that you feel that way.” The “sorry,” but I’m not sorry response it like getting an emotional slap in the face. One time it happened when I didn’t get information about a credit union fee, and I also mentioned lacking customer service at a local branch. Read more →

Today, I hope you’re having a great celebration with your mom or are remembering her if she is no longer with us. My mom, Ruth L. Slingsby, photo at left, was a hard-working, supportive mom. I miss her every day. She passed away in 2005 at the age of 89. Here are some facts and figures for Mother’s Day 2024: Read more →

My birthday is May 4, a wonderful time in the spring when everything is blooming. When I was a child growing up in Central Washington on an apple ranch, I used to run through the orchard on my birthday when the trees were in full bloom, an enchanted place. The blossoms were spectacular and the fragrance marvelous. Read more →

I love Ireland. In 2016, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit Ireland with my daughter Lisa. When we flew into Dublin, it was like I was coming home. Ireland is a lot like the Seattle area where I live – lots of rain and green in the landscape. And, some of my ancestors, the Baylee family, came from Ireland. Read more →

I know, I know. As a consumer and personal finance journalist, I should have had my will prepared a long time ago. I’ve had a handwritten will for years that was witnessed by two friends. It’s not sufficient, but it was something. People need to have a will because if they don’t, their assets, if any, will be distributed according to state law. Read more →