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Across the Fence:  Thought provoking question  |
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La Patite Ferme
True Blue Farmgirl
623 Posts
Jenn
CA
USA
623 Posts |
 Posted - Mar 07 2007 : 10:04:51 PM
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Dear Farm Friends,
Last week I received a magazine in the mail that had a survey with the 10 best places to live in the country life. I won't bore you with all the statistical info that went into selecting each area. It was interesting to see the variety of locations throughout the country, but what was even more interesting was the financial information given for each area (land prices, house prices and farm prices). As I read the article and looked at the varying prices it got me thinking.
I've always been a farm girl, whether it was on a suburan lot, a large commerical farm or my current 1/3 acre - the land, growing things and producing my own food has been in my blood. They are traits that I have tried to pass on to my daughter (now 14). As she has grown and raised her variety of animals she too wants her career AND her little place in the country where she can continue a lifestyle she enjoys very much.
But, we live in CA with skyrocketing land prices that are even higher if the land has a house and outbuildings on it. One of the areas mentioned was in CA. A county with stunning landscapes and even more stunning land prices - $30,000/acre average; houses with just a few acres over half a million dollars.
So here are my thought provoking questions -
As we teach our children to enjoy and value a simpler life, to feed ourselves from what we raise and grow, and strive to continue what we have taught them are we not also, unwittingly, sending them down a path of frustration and endless trials to obtain the farm dream in a financially prohibitive climate?
How will we teach them to obtain their dream? What financial skills can we teach them now?
What can we do to start them on a path to make their dream a reality?
How do we convey to them that the fire and passion for the dream makes life more enjoyable, even when it takes years or decades to attain?
We have always learned so much from each other and I don't think this will be any different. Tell us what you are doing to guide your kids down the financial road. Ask questions, share, so we can all think and learn together. My hope is to pass on what we learn to the next generation of farm girls.
Jenn
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jo Thompson
True Blue Farmgirl
603 Posts
Jo
the mountainside of the Chugach
in Alaska
USA
603 Posts |
Posted - Mar 07 2007 : 10:16:02 PM
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Jenn, I thought this was a wonderful thread that you started...... I have a friend who has raised her children here in Alaska in a way that you are describing....... I raised a wonderful son..... my priority, everyone's priority (this is only what I think of course) is that you raise children who don't have to "have everything", you raise them rich with culture, with curiosity, as enlightened as they can be. We can not see the future and what they will be able to afford, it is possible that your children may only have small homes with no property, etc. etc. but if you can teach them to live an enriched life, to ask questions, to just live SIMPLY. I think you will make happy, happy adults. It's more about knowing what you need to survive, than only wanting more and more.
I had a beautiful garden on a little tiny lot in California a long, long time ago. Your children may range far, far away from you someday. Teach generosity and show them the world, the rest will take care of itself. jo
"life is drab without a lab"
http://homepage.mac.com/thomja/Anchorage/PhotoAlbum15.html |
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Marybeth
True Blue Farmgirl
6418 Posts
Mary Beth
Stanwood
Wa 98292
USA
6418 Posts |
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Aunt George
True Blue Farmgirl
1476 Posts
Georgann
Midlothian
VA
1476 Posts |
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happymama58
True Blue Farmgirl
1210 Posts
Patti
Missouri
USA
1210 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 08:33:41 AM
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You've raised some wonderful questions. My gut response to one of those (" . . . are we not also, unwittingly, sending them down a path . . . in a financially prohibitive climate?") is going to sound a bit harsh, but it really is just practicality. So here goes:
I don't think the climate is financially prohibitive to the dream we talk about here. There are roadblocks to all dreams, bar none. However, it's up to the individual/couple/family to determine what is ultimately most important to them and act accordingly. California is extremely expensive, no doubt. But it's not necessary to live in California. THere is extremely cheap land still to be found in this country (in a neighboring county here, for example, you can still buy acreage for under $900 an acre) if you are willing to relocate. Yes, this might bring about sacrifice in another area, but to be honest, I don't think that any accomplishment or object gained is all that valuable to us if it's gaining didn't involve at least some sacrifice.
My husband and I know a couple who live in a high-income area but dream of moving to the country. When they talk about why they "can't" do this, their conversation is peppered with things like "private schools, both of our jobs, shopping, the kids' interests", etc., etc. All of these are VERY VALID concerns, but each person/family must decide which valid concerns are paramount. This couple has a gorgeous home, expensively decorated; they both have fancy cars less than 2 years old, dress very nicely (she has a ton of shoes!). None of that is wrong. However, to live their real dream, some of the lesser "dreams" or "wants" may have to be left behind or curtailed. Shopping at the mall once a month or every other month instead of weekly. Seeing grandparents twice a year instead of monthly. Does each family member, starting with the 16 yr old, really need their own car? So the kid pitches a fit because they have to ride the bus. Since when should kids have everything they want?! I'm not talking giving up necessities here; I'm talking about an honest appraisal of what we consider a necessity.
I realize full well that some people have a career or job that demands they live in a high-cost area, and they may not have the skills to leave that job. If they really want to move, they need to first decide on where they want to live, then research and learn what jobs are available or how they can earn an income there, then cultivate those skills as best they can.
But the main thing I think most people need to do is simply learn they can't have everything. Then they make the choice. The dream is affordable and it's attainable if the person really wants it.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
Please visit me at www.marykay.com/pmiinch |
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EmmJay
True Blue Farmgirl
352 Posts
Mary Jane
Amherst
Nova Scotia
Canada
352 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 08:48:15 AM
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WOW Patti;
Well said.
My move to the country was out of necessity, but now that I am here, I would not have it any other way. I believe my kids are learning more here in the last year, than they did near the city (15 years). Hubby has two daughters that stayed because of work, so we see them maybe once every couple of months.
When we head out to visit, they always ask for a chicken, turkey, roast beef, or even eggs, whatever we are willing to bring them.
My 17 year old does not have a car, nor will she be getting one. She does work part time, and will be graduating in June. She bought her own prom dress, pictures, and grad ring. I am so very proud of her for these things, and she does feel a sense of accomplishment when she does something on her own. She is planning on furthering her education, but is talking about coming back to the country.
If this is truly her dream, I know she will obtain it. Me, I am living my dream, and it's funny how it was obtained, not by choice...but then again, HE works in mysterious ways.
MJ
"Thank GOD I'm a country girl"
http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o134/EmmJay07/ |
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happymama58
True Blue Farmgirl
1210 Posts
Patti
Missouri
USA
1210 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 08:53:50 AM
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Mary Jane, you're so right about His plan and how He works. It sounds like you have a wonderful daughter -- isn't it great to watch them make mature decisions you know full well they will never regret and that will serve them well as adults. It's the best feeling a parent can have, imho.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
Please visit me at www.marykay.com/pmiinch |
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happymama58
True Blue Farmgirl
1210 Posts
Patti
Missouri
USA
1210 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 10:02:13 AM
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I gave my gut response, and now I have to clarify something. It sounds as if I have it all figured out. No way. This is my belief, but putting it into action is a work in progress. DH and I have made choices that many of you would say are foolish. For example, some parents choose to have their children pay their way to college; we've chosen otherwise. To some, they may feel that it's not a necessity for us to pay for college, and they are RIGHT. It isn't. But we still choose to do it, even though it cramps us financially. There are many changes dh & I could make, even though we've already cut back on many things in order to live this way (particularly since I lost my job, but we started simplifying before that). We continue to make changes and sacrifices. And I'll admit, there are some changes we SHOULD make but haven't bit the bullet yet.
I'm certainly not sitting here pointing any fingers; just sharing a viewpoint that also applies to myself. I've come to this belief the hard way, which seems to be the way I like to learn! 
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
Please visit me at www.marykay.com/pmiinch |
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MustangSuzie
True Blue Farmgirl
634 Posts
Sarah
New London
Missouri
USA
634 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 10:47:46 AM
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If you want something bad enough, you sacrifice and do what it takes to get it. Like my dad always says, do your wants come before your needs? Living a simple life and only taking what you need is my philosophy. Everyone has different things that they consider important though. I was just reading a story about a couple this morning, who live in Montana where land is expensive. They saved, bought some land and lived in a tent for a couple of years until they built their log, earth contact, solar home on a combined income of less than $12000 a year. I was like wow! Of course that is an execption and not everyone could do that, but what inspiration! I could see myself living in on my MJ's wall tents while I was building a green house.
This was a great idea for a thread!
Blessings....
Sarah
"In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations." -From The Great Law Of The Iroquois Confederacy.
REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE!!!!
http://mustangsuzie.wordpress.com
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Frankenblonde
Farmgirl in Training
28 Posts
Courtland
CA
USA
28 Posts |
Posted - Mar 08 2007 : 11:41:51 PM
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My husband and I lucked out and bought our 73 acres for $525,000 almost 3 years ago (in the Sacramento area, Northern California). We have a small, 85-year-old house, a couple of old outbuildings, and about 65 acres of dirt. We got a great deal (for the acreage, anyway, not so much the house!). But I've learned to appreciate this crooked old house because it's saved us from living in a motor home while waiting to refinance for a new house. I've been fixing it up and loving it, and even when we build a new house I'm keeping this one for guests! I repainted & brightly decorated the kids' rooms and they love their special places, made just for them. We give funny names to the weird old stuff around here, which makes it "cool" instead of "lame" (for instance, "The Rickety Old Bridge of Doom" is the metal grate bridge that crosses a water canal ~ the kids see it as a fun challenge to cross!).
Our family does chores together and has fun together here in the country, which makes us really thankful for all we do have (not worring about what we could have). We make room for little wants, while prioritizing the big needs, and therefor we all work towards a common goal. I teach the kids to "bloom where they're planted" in being happy where God has put them for the time, but I also teach them to strive to achieve their dreams and use the wisdom and talents God has given them.
Basically, we work hard but stop to smell the wildflowers. 
“Always know in your heart that you are far bigger than anything that can happen to you.”
~ Dan Zadra, Chicken Soup for the Country Soul
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Annab
True Blue Farmgirl
2900 Posts
Anna
Seagrove
NC
USA
2900 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 06:01:33 AM
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I'd have to say: save for that dream and never give up on it!
Even if a piece of land costs, what exactally IS the price for a bit of space that can be passsed on to generations??
Keep in mind the cost of inflation too. What was it years ago in the West? All you needed was a fast horse and a piece of wood to stake your claim???
Teach children the value of a buck, the value of saving for the future, and to not go into debt that will cause sleepless nights and repossession threats.
That's part of the problem for kids today......the goods come too easily and in their eyes, it can all be thrown away and replaced too easily too. The things we most desire ought to be sweated over and saved up for.
I look at my parents and how they can travel the world and can pay cash for ANY vehicle they desire. It took many, MANY years for this to happen. It hasn't come easily or quickly. They are two of the most givingest people I'll ever know and Lord knows I'll never be able to repay in full their generosity and kindness they have showered on me and my brother....and each of our families.
Their mantra is to pay it forward, so to that end, I try to be kind and loving and generous to others. |
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Amie C.
True Blue Farmgirl
2099 Posts
Finger Lakes Region
NY
2099 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 06:30:32 AM
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Patti, I think you are dismissing the "financially prohibitive climate" too easily. For a variety of reasons, young people today are going to have greater obstacles to financial security than people of older generations. Jennifer says that her daughter expects to have a career AND a place in the country. If that's what she wants, she needs to start planning for it carefully. Will her college education require her to take out student loans, and will her future salary allow her to pay them back and still have a decent standard of living? It used to be assumed that going to college was the ticket to a good job and a good life. But that assumption may not be true anymore. As someone else has said, she will need to consider where she wants to live and what careers she can practice in that area. For my parent's generation, it was pretty doable to have a professional job in the city and a country home for weekends. Today's young adult would have to have a super high-paying job to make that possible, just because of the higher cost of college and the shrinking availability of financial aid.
I think that parents of teenagers and young adults have a responsibility to help their children look at the future realistically and start making financial plans now. Don't fall into the assumption that everyone needs to go straight from high school to college, and that the college degree will assure your children's future. There really are no more lifelong jobs, and starting out in life with debt just makes it harder to move from one career to another. I'm not saying that college is not worthwhile, but it helps to have a realistic idea of what the costs and rewards are going to be.
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happymama58
True Blue Farmgirl
1210 Posts
Patti
Missouri
USA
1210 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 06:47:23 AM
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With all due respect, I'm not dismissing this easily at all. Rather, I think there are SOME people who want to blame the economy rather than make every necessary sacrifice to attain something they want. I've spent alot of years making mistakes, blaming my circumstances for why I can't do what I want, when I've learned both from personal experience and from that of others, that money is NOT the issue. It's a matter of priorities and of realizing you cannot have everything. Look at the women here who have dreams of owning acreage, but there are circumstances beyond their control. Husbands with heart conditions that preclude working much land or being far from medical care, for example. So their priorities change, maybe not joyfully, but sometimes we have to learn joy. So these women do what they can on their lot in town. They adjust their dream because their priority is not getting what they want, but living gracefully with what they've been given (in the example I gave, it's a dh with medical issues, but it could be any variety of things).
Land is affordable. Not everywhere, no. But if you want the dream bad enough, there are ways around that $$ issue. There are some great examples of people who have and are doing just that -- examples on this board (Mary Jane is a great one as are some of the other wonderful farmgirls here), in books, magazines, etc.
Do you really think young adults today have it any worse than those young adults of earlier years? I doubt it very much. Read about the Depression, the Dust Bowl, the earliest settlers to this country who came here because they were in debtors prison, and the examples go on & on. I think we think we have it worse because we get the stats and such from the media every day -- the Dow is down, interest rates are up, or whatever. We're told it's difficult, so we believe it.
I know some of you may take this as me being too "strong" in my views, but I am very passionate about the concept of choices, priorities, and sacrifice. I don't buy into you can be anything you want -- not at all. I cannot reasonably be a brain surgeon. I don't want to, but even if I did, I do not have the mental capability to make it in med school. Period. But I do feel most people can get closer to their dream than they think they can, IF they are willing to compromise -- maybe compromise their dream, their possessions, whatever.
I guess we'll just have to agree to disagree on this one.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
Please visit me at www.marykay.com/pmiinch |
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happymama58
True Blue Farmgirl
1210 Posts
Patti
Missouri
USA
1210 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 06:54:54 AM
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Annie, I forgot to respond to the specific situation you offered -- the young adult who wants a career and the country life. You mention student loans. There are many ways to attend college without going into debt. Again, it's a matter of choices. Work your way through (takes longer, but that's the trade-off), after graduation work in an impoverished area or for a company that will take over your loans so that your loans are forgiven, etc., etc. My son is in his 2nd year of pre-med school, and he has already learned of over a dozen ways that he can have all of his loans forgiven. I've heard of teachers, lawyers, businessmen, you-name-it doing the same thing. There are tons of people who graduate, even with advanced degrees, without debt. They just don't make good news, and the media can't point to it is as the government's fault! You mention having a home in town and a weekend home in the country? Again, that's a choice. Why two homes? If the farmlife is your dream, why live in the city most of the time? If it's the conveniences of shopping, close to job, etc., -- well, I addressed those in my first post. It's all about what you really want, not about having it all.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
Please visit me at www.marykay.com/pmiinch |
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Amie C.
True Blue Farmgirl
2099 Posts
Finger Lakes Region
NY
2099 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 10:15:04 AM
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Patti, I think you are absolutely right that getting the kind of life you want requires "choices, priorities, and sacrifice". But that is not what the typical teenager is going to hear from the culture at large. That's why I wanted to point out the importance of thinking about these things in a realistic way from an early age.
I do think that, historically speaking, the American middle class reached its peak between about 1945 and 1975. So young people today are growing up in comfortable circumstances, and they may assume that they will be able to afford the same kind of lifestyle as a matter of course. I look at my younger sisters and their friends. They all have cell phones, myspace accounts, ipods. And yet they are dropping out of high school, and when you ask them what they plan to do with their lives they just shrug. And there are fewer good jobs available now, even to people with degrees, than there were when our parents were getting out of school.
Regarding students loans, I know that it is possible to graduate debt-free. But the average student graduates from college (undergrad) with about $18K in debt last time I heard. It's so easy to get caught up in the idea that you must go directly from high school to college, and then graduate four years later, even if you don't know what kind of career you want. I would certainly advise any current high school student to look at other options. Maybe just waiting a few years until you have a better idea of the kind of work you want to do and what it takes to make a living at it. So many of my friends are working two jobs just to to pay off their student loans. It's hard to get ahead that way.
I'm just saying the kinds of things I wish an adult had told me when I was younger. Better to plan first and avoid as many obstacles as you can. Saves a whole lot of work and frustration later. |
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grace gerber
True Blue Farmgirl
2804 Posts
grace
larkspur
colorado
USA
2804 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 11:52:47 AM
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Thanks Jennifer for asking the questions we have all asked ourselves at one time or another and Thank You Jo for the great response.
I guess my first suggestion is not to look at this life as "Sacrifice" but a life full of choices. We all make choices and we have to be willing to except the outcome. When my husband passed we moved from a huge house and very upscale professional world to our country log home and a new way of living. My one Choice (Sacrifice) I made was not to level the county so my sons would stay in the same school district and friends. That meant I had to purchase land in a very expensive area but I was willing to make that choice. My boys have grown into young men who have no issues with who they are, where their going and how they walk in the world. What more could I want for them. When you show your life to your children and you are living in truth for you, they can make informed and smart choices. I know that no matter what life puts in front of them they have the tools to make a path that is right for them. Nothing in life is a given - who knows what the future will hold and why must it all be about the money. As the saying goes - "You leave this world in a suite with no pockets - what have to given the world?"
Also, my gift to my sons is allow themselves the right to change their minds. Sometimes we get too busy in putting a plan in front of ourselves and when all signs shows it is not working, we refuse to make a new plan because we are too busy defending our first choice. I put myself thru college working two jobs and living on my own at age 16. I graduated with top honors into a profession that I have made a choice not to practice. I had a great plan, made many plans since then and still have plans to come.
Many people are also too concerned with what the outside world will think of them. My sons have seen first hand that those who judge them are usually the one's who do not have their own life the way they want and so they have to make others join them on their level so they have company. I have given my sons the ability to see thru the TV ads, Pop Culture Clutter and Media Judgements that seem to be the mantra of todays youth. When someone would rather give you the shirt of his back then worry what label his shirt is - then you will have children who make it in the world.
I wish you peace in your families choices and enjoy each day that you have because all the plans you make in the world does not get it right anyway. If you really look at the best parts in your life - you will see that none of them where planned!!
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com |
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sweetproserpina
True Blue Farmgirl
535 Posts
meg
Vinemount
Ontario
Canada
535 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 7:24:33 PM
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What wonderful topic. I'm really enjoying reading the responses. I thought I'd give my 2 cents, just an opinion from a young person starting out, trying to figure out how I can reach that farmgirl dream...
A few issues have come up as to whether young people have it harder than ever before. The answer to this is not so simple as there are different ways to look at. I think many young people expect the comforts they had growing up in their parents' house. They want the big screen tvs, the fast internet and the vacations and think they are entitled to get them. To afford this lifestyle many young people now are going into enormous debt to pay for it all. It is the culture of "get it now, pay for it later." And to these young people I really fear what their lives will be like ten years from now - absolutely drowning in debt because they never really learned the value of a dollar. Getting a high paying job isn't often a solution either if you don't know how to manage your money.
And speaking of jobs... for a young person in 2007 trying to get their foot in the door for a career, a university degree today is what a high school degree used to be. It is a must for many jobs out there. For my current job I had to have one (and bring my degree to the interview as proof!) even if you have scads of experience a degree is still required. After I graduated I experienced (as did many of my friends) a 'post grad slump'. We had degrees, experience working in a world renown museum, great references - and we couldn't get a job checking coats at the local museum. It was absurd. I was told that an undergrad wasn't enough anymore, a master's was better. Many of my peers once finishing their degree went onto a technical college in hopes of better career prospects. I remember my career planning high school teacher telling us plainly "the years of having one job or even one type of career are over, you will probably change careers at least 7 times in your life now." It's hard for young people. Harder than it was for past generations? I think it's all relative, what seems hard for one generation, may seem easy for another. Each generation has different wants, desires, and needs.
As for advice, well... cheap farmland is availible but you'll probably have to move to find it, I've found this out the past few years and we've adjusted our plans accordingly- we're moving east as soon as we can manage it. Family and friends may seem far way, but they are only a phone call, a quick flight, or a fun road trip away. And think of all the wonderful stories you'll have to tell them when you are living your dream! To set your kids on the right financial path teach them how to save and invest properly. Carefully invested money today will grow and multiply beautifully - especially if you are young and have the decades to watch it grow. I am a firm believer that I am the mistress of my own destiny and can create my future if I plan and work towards it. Be happy. No matter what you do or where the bend in the road leads you. If you can find the happiness in small things then the frustration will never last long.
Gosh, I've rambled on longer than I ought to - must go fix supper!
"Isn't it splendid to think of all the things there are to find out about? It just makes me feel glad to be alive--it's such an interesting world."
http://theprimroseway.blogspot.com/ |
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ponyexpress
True Blue Farmgirl
320 Posts
Sandy
Kirkwood
Missouri
USA
320 Posts |
Posted - Mar 09 2007 : 9:23:43 PM
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I believe that the best lessons we have been able to personally teach our children have been taught by example, specifically in choosing to live beneath our means. I don't in any way mean to minimize the struggle that many families face just in paying the bills and living paycheck to paycheck. We were very fortunate that my husband's job provided a very nice living. But rather than trying to maintain a lifestyle that reflected that of many of his colleagues, we instead chose to live a more direct, needs-based life.
We now live in a townhome, but when the kids were little, we had a very nice, comfortable home in a very nice neighborhood, but nothing that compared to the homes that most of my husband's colleagues. We drove nice cars, safe cars that got us from point a to point b in fine fashion. No, they weren't the "status" cars, but they served the purpose. We didn't rush out to get cable, big-screen TV, playstation, etc, etc. We didn't have the lawn lavishly landscaped and hire lawn services to maintain the landscaping. We had what we needed, and then some, but felt no desire to keep up with the Jones'. These weren't always easy choices to make - the pressure to conform was always present.
Our choices allowed us the luxury of buying him a car when he turned sixteen, but he worked all through high school and college and needed the transportation. No, it was not a new car - at the time it was a 7 year old Civic and he drove it for six years. It also allowed us to pay for his college so that he could begin his working life debt free.
While he now makes noises about wanting his status car or logo clothing, I also find that he shops at TJ Maxx or has scouted out the best deal on the items he wants. He is a generous tipper at restaurants (especially when I am paying) because he has worked in the food industry and knows how hard that work can be. We provided the "basics" and what he wanted above that, he worked and paid for himself.
Along the way, he will learn what it takes to make his dreams come true and to adapt and adjust when necessary. Mostly, I wanted him to be an independent thinker who has a good strong sense of who he is inside and what is really important to him. It does not have to be the same values that I have, but it needs to have meaning and substance and he has to be willing to plan and work for what he wants out of life. So far, he's doing a good job!
I've tried to find a suitable exercise video for women my age...but they haven't made one called "Buns of Putty" |
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Amie C.
True Blue Farmgirl
2099 Posts
Finger Lakes Region
NY
2099 Posts |
Posted - Mar 10 2007 : 12:04:51 PM
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Hey, I think I should just clarify: I never meant to imply that young people today are facing the worst circumstances ever in history. That would be ridiculous. I just meant that the job outlook and financial climate will be harder for Gen X and Gen Y as they enter the workforce than it was for their parents and grandparents.
I have definitely had the same experience as Meggie of having a degree and not being able to get even the most basic of jobs in the field. I have to say, though, my experience has been that even a master's degree isn't necessarily going to help. My husband went back to school after 10 years in the workforce because he had not been able to get a "real" job with his bachelor's degree, and everyone was telling him that education was still the way to go, you just need more of it now. Well, now he's right back at the same job that he left to get the master's degree. It seems like there are very few fields where the need for staff matches the number of qualified people. That's why it's all the more crucial to stay out of debt, even if that means it takes longer to get the degree.
I've been talking to people in the arts, not directors of museums or anything, but people who run recording studios, or screen t-shirts, or make jewelry for a living. If you can pull the means together, starting a small business is a possible route to a job that doesn't require a traditional degree. Although you can wind up with big debt that way too.... |
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ponyexpress
True Blue Farmgirl
320 Posts
Sandy
Kirkwood
Missouri
USA
320 Posts |
Posted - Mar 10 2007 : 7:30:43 PM
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Amie - I agree with you that the college grads of today have different challenges than the Boomers. It takes persistence, creative thinking and a willingness to make the phone calls and connections needed to get that foot in the door. My son graduated college this past summer with a degree in Communications....a pretty generalized, liberal arts degree. I was a bit concerned that he wouldn't be able to find even an entry level job. But he "worked the system"; he talked with friends, colleagues, teachers, anyone he could think of that might have a recommendation. Long story short, he was hired for the Professional Associate program of a major insurance company as an underwriter and they even paid him a handsome relocation fee for moving to Chicago. The jobs are there but the key seems to be in matching the education to the current and future trends in the market AND seeking out new and creative ways to make contacts.
As far as working in the arts, I have a perspective from two sides. I have many friends who are making, or attempting to make, a living from their art. Many have a spouse to help subsidize their income or they are working a second job in addition to their art. I also have a son-in-law who is attempting the music / recording studio line of work -- and has been for the past 8 years. While he has a certain following in his town - there hasn't been much progress in terms of career moves and he doesn't seem particularly interested in moving in any other direction. Without my step-daughter and her income, I doubt that he could afford to continue. She provides the main source of income, the insurance, the retirement savings... it isn't a career path I would recommend without serious reservations.
I've tried to find a suitable exercise video for women my age...but they haven't made one called "Buns of Putty" |
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La Patite Ferme
True Blue Farmgirl
623 Posts
Jenn
CA
USA
623 Posts |
Posted - Mar 11 2007 : 11:10:51 PM
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WOW!! I had no idea my ramblings would get this much attention :)
All your comments are wonderful. I've enjoyed reading them. It's nice to know we are all thinking along the same lines.
Amie's comments about starting now and laying out a plan is more the direction I was thinking. Although I poised the questions they are not questions I have not addressed with my own daughter. I'm not just sitting by hoping for the best. From the time she wanted to buy chicks I have guided her in how to earn her own money. I have been (hopefully) teaching/training her to be financially independent and secure so when the time comes she will have choices. There are many ways young people can earn a dollar. And when neighbors and friends learn about the goal they are eager to help. The endeavors may not seem like much, but when you combine them with simple financial planning principals a little goes a long way.
A few years ago I read an article written about money management for kids. It was basically what I had heard before - save some, spend some, donate some. But, what was different about this article was a diagram the author had included about the earning power of money. The example it gave was - if an eight year old invested nine dollars a month he/she would have a million when they retired. Later, I spoke with a friend who is a financial planner. Although he disagreed with the monthly amount because the interest rate would have to consistantly be about 12% (not realistic) he did agree that consistant long term saving/investing was a persons best path to financial security. After punching in some numbers on his fancy calculator he came up with $15/month (at 8% - more realistic) the 8 year old would have to save to have a million when they retired. Just for fun I had him figure out what my daughter would have to save in order to accumulate the same million; and then several other ages including mine. It was interesting to see how the invested dollar amount went up as the person got older - because they had lost the earning power from all those past months.
I know many of us are not aiming for our kids to be millionaires, just the chance to live the life they want. I guess my point is that it's never too young to start them on the right path so they can pursue their chosen life.
Even though I am trying to help her learn how to save and spend the money she earns I still think about what it will be like for her when she wants to buy a place. My parents still can't grasp the idea that the little house they bought, in the late 60's for less that $20,000, is worth almost a million.
Thanks ladies for some great responses and for letting me think out loud.
Jenn
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Across the Fence: Thought provoking question |
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Thought provoking question
