I knew I had found my life's passion after writing my first column for The Washington Post. The response was like nothing we had seen in the business section. Everyday people were writing that finally someone was speaking to them in a way that was understandable. I think we were all shocked at how many readers wrote in to say that they too had a Big Mama who taught them about money.

Having fun time is a good use of your money.

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

Money may not buy love, but fighting about it will bankrupt your relationship.

You can't time the market.

Many debt collectors offer a lump sum option so ask. And if you get it, make sure it's in writing and you keep the payoff statement FOREVER.

If we don't want the companies to cheat on us, we shouldn't be cheating on them.