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.

Having kids doesn't mean they would have taken care o you.

You still need to save but being debt-free in retirement is and should be a goal.

I'm keenly aware of how important it is to set a good example. You may not think that your kids are paying attention to you, especially with something like money, but they probably are.

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

We have to protect ourselves by doing our own homework.

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.