I write for people who are good money managers and want to know how to be even better stewards over their money.

My husband and I are pretty good at leaving money alone until we need it for what we've saved it for.

My experience may be different than theirs, readers can identify with trying to save for retirement or their own kid's college fund. In truth, the name of the column, "The Color of Money," has less to do with my race than the fact that the color of money is green and it's green we all need to live a good life.

Priorities lead to prosperity.

When you give people who are being financially responsible money, you are enabling them to continue a bad habit. So you are actually helping by saying, "Love you but no."

A smart couple with a healthy financial relationship is always talking about money and how they're handling it. If there's a medical emergency or a job loss, talk about it. If there's a windfall, talk about it. Your financial situation is a constantly changing thing.

You are NOT a financial failure if you rent. You are getting something for your money. A roof over your head.