In the spirit of higher learning I decided to put myself through the arduous task of studying the educational side of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. A few things I took away from the hours of research:
Several strings of lights are okay, 250 strands for a grand total of 25,000 imported italian twinkle lights, might be excessive. If you’re trying to compete with the laser light show at Epcot Center, stop, you lost already. Your wallet will thank you and so will your neighbors.
Writing a $7,500 check to cover the deposit on a swimming pool when you don’t have money in your account is a bad idea.
Hoping that your Christmas bonus shows up on time and is big enough to cover the check is even worse.
I’m not sure how far ahead one normally pays for a pool instillation, but the middle of winter might just be too early. Paying too far in advance is borderline sketchy, wait till the ground thaws.
Despite what you might think, kidnapping your boss, will not get you that bonus either.
When the insanity of the holidays begins to set in, remember, there’s always Jack Daniels.
Before I destroy any future enjoyment from the movie, just watch it and forget everything written earlier. Enjoy the laughs and Happy Holidays!
Great Reads From Around The Web
A post at the College Investor tells a great story about the best investment advice they received with a few very good lessons.
Buck Inspire offers up some lessons learned from aspiring to be big, with basketball analogies.
Not sure what to do with that 401k, Money Beagle has a simple lesson from cashing out a 401k.
A post at Not Made of Money admits to learning a few money lessons from their parents. We don’t admit it often, but that stuff sticks.
