A foreclosure does not define you financially.

I use my financial values to set my limitations. I have three children I want to put through college debt free. So that means I can't spend wildly or with disregard.

If you haven't saved, your child may have to work. But do what you can to NEVER take out student or parent loans.

My writing is definitely influenced by and speaks to African-Americans because that is who I am. I'm black. I'm a black woman. I'm a black mother, wife, churchgoer, etc. I am the legacy of slavery.

I'm not a fan of debt consolidation. In my experience, many people "clear" credit cards and other debt to get the one payment and never change what they need to change to prevent getting into debt again.

You shouldn't invest the money if you are looking to use it within five years. Too much risk.

A foreclosure does not define you financially.