Giveaway Contest: Now I Want to Hear From You!
By Mike
I wrote my very first post yesterday introducing myself and telling my I thoughts on handling Gather Little by Little. However, the biggest part of a blog is its readers and community. For the past months, I have been reading your comments and discovered how great GLBL readers are.
This is why I have decided to run a contest in order to know what you like from Gather Little by Little and also what you would like to read in the upcoming months. Are there any topics that you prefer or you wish to read about?
Here are the prizes:
#1 16GB iPod touch
#2 $25 Amazon gift certificate
#3 $25 Amazon gift certificate
How to enter the contest:
You just have to write a comment saying what you like from GLBL or what you would like to read in the future.
Each comment gives you a chance to win. You are normally limited to one comment but if you have 3 ideas or more, you will get 2 chances!
The winners will be announced on Friday, July 31st.
Your feedback is very important to me as it will guide me through the direction I will give to Gather Little by Little.
Thx for your help!!
July 21st, 2009 at 6:43 am
I don’t expect you to be Larry — that wouldn’t be fair. However, I do expect you to continue the tradition of being useful, honest, and helpful.
Good luck with your new blog. It’s a sizable investment you’ve made and I wish you the best.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:02 am
Glad to see you are taking the reins here! I’ve always liked this site, and hope it continues to deliver great advice.
I’ve always been a fan of the money stories here, so all I ask is that you not let them go entirely…don’t get me wrong, the majority of content here is great stuff! I just do not tire easily of both positive and negative money stories…they teach us all a little something about money.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:23 am
I hope the posts keep the same personal touch they had so far.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:26 am
I always like posts where we get to ask the blogger anything we want. I’d like to throw a few curveballs.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:38 am
I love personal stories, a personal touch to some of the posts. It helps us to relate to the author. :)
July 21st, 2009 at 7:48 am
Kind of like Matt, I’ve always been a fan of the stories. How to’s are something that GBLGuy was good at too. I enjoyed his account of moving to a new house and the money pits with it, so that was something else I liked.
Welcome!
July 21st, 2009 at 7:50 am
I enjoy some of the personal testimonies of the readers – reminding us that we are not the only ones who struggle or who have persevered.
Additional information regarding insurance would be helpful (all kinds: auto, home, health, life, etc) – we should do what we can to protect ourselves.
I also enjoy the biblical references, when applicable – what God says about money and our responsibilities with it.
July 21st, 2009 at 7:51 am
Larry brought his personality to his blog, which is what makes it so wonderful to read. I don’t think anyone expects you to write like Larry or share his point of view on everything, but I think everyone will want to see the same amount of honesty and integrity.
Looking forward to reading the new articles and seeing where you take this blog. :)
July 21st, 2009 at 7:52 am
I came across this blog while looking for information about zero percent balance transfers, and I liked the way the article was written. It was accessible, not full of unexplained or confusing terms, and just seemed like decent people had written it… (some blogs aren’t that way, obviously).
If I had any requests, it would be for more information about additional (and passive) forms of income. I think that these things are more and more important with the economy as it is right now, and even a little money each week or month can make a difference for somebody.
Also, I agree with Christina… personal experiences make stories stand out and remain viable in the mind.
Thanks for asking!
-Curt
July 21st, 2009 at 7:59 am
I agree with others, that the personal stories and scripture references are what keep me coming back.
I enjoyed Larry’s personal stories, his tranparency, but also the articles that answered questions and helped to solve problems of the readers.
Welcome to GLBL, and I look forward to reading your articles!
July 21st, 2009 at 8:02 am
True to the name, I would like to see more information on low capital investment strategies. I’d like to see more tips on how to get the more ‘spendy’ family members on to the frugality line of thinking. Plus, tutorials on how to compare investments through looking at available information (like how to compare returns on two similar mutual funds etc.).
July 21st, 2009 at 8:14 am
Welcome to GLBL. Here’s the three things that keep me coming back:
1. Ways to save money that are not obvious. (most blogs will give you the standard advice….I’m talking about things that most people don’t think about)
2. Personal stories….it’s always interesting to see others go through somewhat the same things that the readers do.
3. Keep a good personality. There are numerous blogs out there to read….this is what separates them.
July 21st, 2009 at 8:39 am
I am sorry to sound like everyone else,but I have to agree and say the personal stories:)
July 21st, 2009 at 8:53 am
Hi Mike,
What I like most (in order of preference) are:
1. personal anecdotes and stories about real people in real situations and how they applied frugality or budgeting or some other personal finance topic.
2. quick lists – 10 ways to save money today, 25 ways to improve gas mileage, things like that.
3. educational stories that teach about a financial topic such as 401k’s, investing, saving, current events, etc.
Thanks!
July 21st, 2009 at 9:01 am
I really enjoy hearing money from a biblical view. It seems if we manage money from our own perspective, it gets off track quickly and self centered.
Any personal stories of money are great as they are very real and most often very practical. They hit home much quicker and have a strong impact.
I work in finance so enjoy the deeper articles also.
I look forward to reading!
July 21st, 2009 at 9:01 am
I like the personal stories and examples. They help motivate me and educate me.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:38 am
Hi Mike,
What I really enjoy reading about are:
1) Like everyone else, personal stories with a lesson. We’re not here to read the news. I enjoy the anecdotal accounts of money lessons.
2)Articles on generating extra income, home and side business ideas, and low risk investing strategies.
3) Even if I don’t employ them, I also like to hear about high risk investing strategies. I just like to keep up with what people are doing in the investing world.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:46 am
I work for as a business developer for a faith-based credit union. Financial tips and tricks are good, but a site that discusses financial issues in the light of Scripture helps me as I interact with members and try to answer their questions.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:55 am
1/ Reviews of interesting websites.
2/ Interesting things from your daily life.
3/ Reviews of the events you visit / movies you watch
July 21st, 2009 at 10:05 am
I’d like you to bring your experience with clients. Embrace the differences between you and larry, you plan for clients and their stories are likely to inspire the readers.
Good Luck
July 21st, 2009 at 10:09 am
Personal stories
Reviews of interesting sites.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:11 am
I love the personal stories. Both of success and failure. It teaches everyone lessons and makes finance more personal.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:22 am
I really like helpful hints on how to save money, anywhere. I also like the personal stories that help detail pitfalls or put things into perspective.
Good Luck!
July 21st, 2009 at 10:24 am
Best of luck with the site! You have huge shoes to fill.
I’d like to see some simple ways to invest.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:29 am
I would like to see articles about financial planning and investments.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:32 am
I hate to sound like a broken record, after all the other comments, but I really enjoyed Larry’s (and later Stew’s) personal stories, and I’d love to hear yours, too. And I agree with Amy that success stories and failure stories help us learn and keep it real, too.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:33 am
The main reason that I like GLBL is that it helps me see that there are others facing the same decisions and trying to figure out what they need in their financial journey as myself. My wife and I are only 24 but you can never start to soon. We are well on our way to starting out debt free…we have lots of goals and questions and I could go on for days…we need a question answer post one day!
July 21st, 2009 at 10:39 am
Good luck
I would like to see
1) Personal stories from people of a variety and backgrounds and situations.
2) Simple assessments of current changes/opportunities (i.e. tax breaks for clunkers)
July 21st, 2009 at 10:47 am
I like to read the personal stories; it helps to see the similarities and differences in how people manage their day-to-day finances.
Quick lists are always good.
Examples of things that have worked or not worked for you in terms of personal finance.
Good luck!
July 21st, 2009 at 10:48 am
The personal stories are so inspiring to me. We need to see more success stories out there to remind ourselves that we can do it too! I also like to hear about what happens when people make mistakes in their financial lives, and how they fix it. Honesty is encouraging too!
July 21st, 2009 at 10:59 am
I really enjoy the christian context to the messages.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:02 am
I also really enjoy the “real life” application type of stories. It helps people to relate things to their own unique situations. There are no definite answers to all financial situations, but the more resources (such as these types of stories) you can pull advice and experience from, the more equipped you are to handle the specific situation you will face.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:05 am
I would also love to read about different types of “frugal hacks”. Different little ideas that are resourceful and frugal without sacrificing too much quality. Not sure if this is something that will fit into the scope of GLBL, but the overall topic is the same.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:07 am
I would like to hear about the correct (or close to correct) financial choices you have made. I hear so much about the bad choices, it would be encouraging to hear about good choices that made a positive influence on your (or someone else’s life).
July 21st, 2009 at 11:10 am
I always like the question and answer type of articles too.
Also the more personal financial stories. :) Thanks,
July 21st, 2009 at 11:11 am
i find this web useful..i do some read up on ur post and it help me with my dialy life and oso my school work.really love the site.esp the one on saving money, it reali reflect on the current issue and im able to see what others are think abt the situation around us.
thankz
July 21st, 2009 at 11:12 am
Some of my most favorite things are:
1) Contest
2) Money saving ideas
July 21st, 2009 at 11:17 am
Best of luck on the ‘new management’ of the blog. What I liked to see with the old GLBL and what would be great to continue with the new GLBL is to align the subjects with scriptures from time to time. Sometimes when we have problems, incl. $$ problems, they best thing is to pull out and read the Bible. When I get a scripture from GLBL, I mark that verse with a note about where I received the mention of the scripture. It makes it all come full circle, thanks.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:18 am
This was the first financial blog I discovered, and it was the one that made me want to start my own blog. I loved the personal stories and how the bible influenced his thinking.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:25 am
Welcome!
I , too, enjoy the personal stories, learning from others is a great way to learn!
I also like the intergration of the Lord’s teachings-
As a new home owner, I’d like ot hear any money saving tips on our house expenses. Its’ far different than renting!
Also, the tips on how to make extra income is always apprecaited!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:28 am
Hi Mike,
I need financial education. My parents lived through the depression and lived frugally, but never took the time to teach me how to do it myself. Their sacrifices and savings were very private so I when I started a career, I didn’t have the skills to budget and save.
So I’d like to see financial advice on 3 levels.
1) Basic – just starting out with a budget and emergency fund
2) Intermediate – ways to save for short/long term goals
3) advanced – investments, wills, trusts, retirement accounts
I’ve recommended this website to many friends who are all at different financial stages in their lives so everyone would benefit somewhere between a variety of subjects.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:30 am
it is helpful to hear about financial stories from a christian’s perspective.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:31 am
Some of the things that I’ve enjoyed about Gather Little By Little over the past couple of years:
1. Personal stories: like many of the comments above I’ve enjoyed the personal touch on this blog – personal stories talking about how Larry was trying to improve his finances, make a working budget, etc. Personal stories really help to build a relationship with the readers.
2. Faith based posts: As a fellow Christian blogger I enjoyed the biblical take on personal finance, and the intertwining of faith and finance. I’d love to see more of that.
3. Posts On Frugality: I also would like to see more posts about frugality, saving money and real life examples of how to do that.
once again, good luck and God bless on this new blogging adventure!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:31 am
I discovered this website about 6 months ago. On thing that I really like is how most advice and information is told in a way that anyone can relate to. There is always a personal story to go along with the topic. That makes it easier to relate.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:37 am
I’d like to read more meal planning ideas. I liked the fact Larry had a large family, but I am forever interested in what other people eat
July 21st, 2009 at 11:38 am
As a very new reader to this site – I really don’t know a lot about what was here before.
What I want is info on:
1.Small investments.
2.How to make my blog into a money making blog (how to get advertisers – do I need a new domain – things like that).
3. Info on building food storage.
And yes please – include personal stories.
Thanks!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:42 am
I have just become debt free, and that frees up a lot of money for other things, particularly giving it away. I would like more posts on the blog about increasing giving more to the church and the less fortunate, without sacrificing too much our own basic needs.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:48 am
I’d like to see:
1) A place for individuals to post their own testimony regarding money lessons they have learned and how it related to their growth with Christ, as many of us don’t have time or inclination to create a blog on our own, but would like to share and help anyway.
2) More posts which tie biblical lessons directly with money management.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:54 am
Nice to see you here too Mike, I only found out about GLBL because of Financial Blogger, and now it’s in my RSS
Nothing much to say, I like all PF topics in general, but I like
– personal stories (heartfelt)
– lessons from encounters (so MBA, work, etc..)
A lot of frugal tips I am already aware of, so they can only be done so much unfortunately @@
Good luck to myself
July 21st, 2009 at 11:56 am
I really enjoy this blog and getting the daily emails. I did just read the Rich Dad, Poor Dad book and there are many interesting examples in there. I’d like to see a few more book reviews and discussions from those books.
Thanks and keep up the great blogging.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:59 am
Hi – Like everyone else, I love the personal angle – the personal stories & I’d like to hear questions from viewers & others responding – we’re all in this together. I also the food stories – don’t ask me why, I guess I’m a foodie. Finally, as I get older I’m gearing for retirement (if that is ever possible) & while lot’s of people talk or blog vaguely about retirement, I’d love to read about real people & what they are doing or have done.
July 21st, 2009 at 11:59 am
Welcome to the blog and thanks for having this contest!
I have three ideas:
1) Unique ways to save money. Something we haven’t already thought of, or a new perspective on an old way to save.
2) Personal posts/perspective. Like many others, I enjoy reading stories.
3) And finally, I’d love to see you add a suggestion box or voting where we could vote on certain posts and/or post ideas. I have seen this implemented on other blog sidebars and it’s pretty interesting. It allows you to get feedback all the time instead of just in one post!
Hope this helps. Looking forward to seeing what you do with the site!
-Erica
July 21st, 2009 at 12:02 pm
I really enjoy do it yourself projects that are cheap and cost effective. one with actual experience are the best, where the writer can actually comment about the pitfalls.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:05 pm
I will echo the other comments …
* keep it real by having personal stories – I think Gibble guy & Stew’s honesty is what keeps a lot of us coming back. I would like to know what financial advice worked for you and what didn’t. At this point, I feel like almost everything I’ve been told about finances for the past 10 yrs is wrong {luckily I didn’t do most of it};
* I liked the ‘ask the m-network anything’ option;
* Even though I am in my 40s, I am like Pitztop {LOVE, LOVE the name}, I’ve referred many to the blog who are in different phases of life & I had no financial education growing up. I am here to ‘change my family tree’ and break the cycle of using credit cards.
Alternative income: I would also like info on a home based business. What is real and what is a scam? How do you get started? Is there a product out there that would be a good business?
Also, my husband just started a real estate appraisal business … what are some tips for starting a business.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I only found GLBL a few weeks ago but have really loved it – bookmarked it immediately. I have to say the Christian point of view was a big plus for me. Also just the honest stories from real life to educate! Good Luck!
July 21st, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Welcome!
I really appreciate the fact this blog avoids spending too much time on tired cliched frugal tips that every other PF blogger has already blogged to death about. I also really appreciate the humble, kind, non-judgmental tone of the blog. It doesn’t make me feel inferior for not having a cushy retirement fund (yet!) nor does it try to make me feel like an idiot for my occasional $4 latte.
I do appreciate the subtle Christian point of view. It’s not naive (God dresses the flowers and feeds the birds, surely he will take care of you! Don’t worry and just give all to God!) or preachy, just a gentle reminder every now and then that we all need some Faith in our lives.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Mike,
I am not sure if you are a Christian, I suspect you are since it is hard to escape the Bible verse in the title.
I think that side of the blog attracted a lot of dedicated followers(and a few loathers).
I personally, love to read about people getting free from the chains of debt and how it frees them up to chase their dreams.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:47 pm
I like the money-saving ideas that anyone can implement into their lives…small things that can make a difference. Many websites, blogs, etc. are always suggesting high dollar ways to “save” money, like buying all brand-new Energy Star appliances to save a few dollars a month on the electric bill.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:49 pm
I agree with the other posters but would also add
-I liked the links in the articles, they were usually well placed and added more fullness to the points being made. Now I don’t always have time to read the linked articles but even glancing though them was helpful. I’ve been reading other blogs and the “advertising” links and grouped links at the end of the articles just didn’t draw me in.
July 21st, 2009 at 12:59 pm
I liked the personal touch of the blog, real stories that had real effects.
And I would like to see same examples that help people get debt free. Any tricks and tips are great, even though some would might seem obvious for some people.
Besides it would be nice organizing the blog on specific tasks; each post would be linked to a task, and the list of tasks (tags for posts) would be displayed on the side of the blog as an ordered list of necessary steps to get debt free. This way we can see the list of steps that would be required to get debt free, and by clicking on a step we would see all the posts that are in that category.
Good luck!
July 21st, 2009 at 1:04 pm
I agree with most of the comments. The personal touch is a must to keep things ‘real’ and ‘honest’. I follow a few blogs that are similar and enjoy reading about new things, not the same old items rehashed by a different author, as well as adding in the personal aspect. i.e. Don’t tell me I can save money by using CFLs.
I, as well as almost all the readers should hopefully know this, if you do talk about CFL’s let us know your actual savings, like: “I saved 100 KW / month by using CFL which translated into $150. I put the savings directly into a money market account which earns 10% interest, and will over the course of the year allow me to take over the world.”
July 21st, 2009 at 1:05 pm
1. I like it anytime a personal finance blog finds and explains a great resource I can reuse over time – like an excel file that I can download and keep track of my progress from my desktop, or a widget, or a pdf file that outlines a way to organize information – like estate planning or comparing auto insurance quotes, etc.
2. I’m a huge Dave Ramsey fan – so I enjoy stories of the stuggles to get out of debt and maintaining the intensity of focus needed to keep working towards that goal. On the flip side, I can’t get enough of motivational stories of those who did get out of debt and how they did it. What was easy and hard.
3. Simple 1-off money saving tips and tricks that are easy to digest and impliment. Or themes with a list of tips and tricks – i.e. 10 home adjustments, or 10 childcare ideas – odds are there would be something in that list for everybody’s personal situation.
July 21st, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I read a ton of personal finance blogs on a regular basis. After a while, they all seem to be writing about the same thing. If i read one more time about doing without the morning latte, I think I’ll scream.
So my one request would be to try to write stories that have not been done to death by every other PF writer out there. So much of what i read is very basic, trite, commonsense stuff, like “Use coupons when grocery shopping.” Duh. “Try to consolidate shopping errands to save money on gas.”
I guess what i’m trying to say is, speak to a more sophisticated audience and assume they’ve lived a day or two and already have a basic understanding about money.
July 21st, 2009 at 1:11 pm
I enjoy the money saving tips as well as the real life stories that help people out.
July 21st, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Agree with Seth.
Love frugal tips, honesty and giveaways.
Thanks! God bless you!
July 21st, 2009 at 1:39 pm
I like to read about how other people teach their kids about money. My kids are still young (3 and 1) so I have time left to educate them, and I like to know how other people do it.
I also like to read DIY stories, different projects, what worked and what didn’t, etc. We are currently remodeling.
We will be debt-free soon, and I would like to read more about investing, retirement, and college funding, as well as stories that can keep me motivated to stay out of debt.
I would like to read about how to encourage my spouse to see the importance of remaining debt-free, budgeting, saving, and living more frugally.
I am an atheist, but I still enjoy reading this Christian website. I don’t think you have to be religious to understand the message.
July 21st, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Things I like about GLBL:
(1) First, and most important to me, the Christian perspective;
(2) Examples from personal experience;
(3) Practical and detailed guidelines to follow;
(4) Clear links to other websites and articles;
(5) Easy links to previous GLBL articles by category;
Things I’d like to read about in the future:
(1) Because the largest population age group is now baby-boomers, I would like to see more articles on how people in that age-bracket, who have had to give up retirement plans, lost money, or are unemployed due to the economy, can recover financially or at least make it through this time without ending up homeless or having to claim bankruptcy. I know many people who are in over their heads now.
(2) Similarly, more articles about how the next largest age-group, 20-30, can avoid situations that face their parents now and can plan with the new economic forecast in mind.
(3) Along those same lines, articles about how to consolidate too many maxed-out credit lines when the banks are not increasing credit limits to accommodate consolidations or have outrageous interest rates (to beat Pres. Obama’s new guidelines). As a life-coach, I have had many clients who feel that there is no way out other than bankruptcy.
(4) Regarding a magazine format: great, as long as content remains easily accessible and there are detailed instructions for visitors who are new to blogging.
Thanks for all you do.
July 21st, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Things I would like to see in the coming months.
1) teaching your children about finance (my kids are young 6,4,2)
2) personal stories about finance in your life both mistakes and success
3) tips on being frugal
July 21st, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Comment #1 — I’ll leave a second with two more ideas!
First, thank you for your blog. I’ve been a regular reader for some months now.
What I’d like to see:
*more frugal posts – real-life situations – with actual real-life examples of people dealing with the issue in questions
*best equipment-type comparisions: which is the best digital camera, best laptop, etc.
July 21st, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Comment #2 (with ideas!)
*The Best… Recipe, Vacation Spot, Vehicle, etc. — all YOUR OPINION, with room for reader comments!
*Family Issues — especially dealing with people who do not share your commitment to the frugal side. Do you have any experience with parents or in-laws in this regard? Or your friends? I think this would resonate with many of your readers.
Thanks so much.
July 21st, 2009 at 2:51 pm
I like frugal tips. Best of luck!
July 21st, 2009 at 2:58 pm
1 really like this this allows sharing of mistakes and successes by real people. I think we all realize that we are less than perfect despite our best intentions.
This site appealed to me because it wasn’t busy selling and left room for individual opinions.
Don’t take it personal, but I find that professional financial planners are often too busy selling what is beneficial for them without consideration of what is best for real people.
In the end, no one appreciates the value of money more than the person who worked for it.
I would appreciate an article about how to evaluate energy savings – there are so many that claim to save, but when you try to add up the numbers, they have a 40 year payback on the investment. For example, how do the instant hot water heaters compare to solar to convential? Also, keep in mind that many of us live in warm climates that don’t spend a lot of money keeping hot water warm in the summer. So what makes sense in Minnesota, may not make sense in Texas. I find that many of the ‘calucators’ out there are geared generically to cold climates.
July 21st, 2009 at 3:29 pm
best of luck one thing I would be interested would be around how to figure out how mush to have in you emergency fund what are the key things to have funded or not funded and while this is going to be different for everyone what are the must haves and such we should consider id there any rules of thumb so to speak
July 21st, 2009 at 3:40 pm
Like a number of others have already said, the personal stories are what I like the most. I think if you try to do things from “real world” perspective you’d be heading in the right direction. Finding articles full of advice is easy. Seeing an article with a lesson learned in a real world example is a little harder to come by and is at least part of the reason why Larry was so successful here.
July 21st, 2009 at 3:46 pm
1.Profiling a the budget of a real person (or couple) and giving them advice on how they can improve & save money
2. Advice on asset allocation?
Thanks!
July 21st, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Welcome to the GLBL site…it’s hard to comment when there’s so many ideas covered! Just keep it simple and relatable, because ultimately, we all are people trying to get through this life, with enough for our families, and we want to enjoy our lives, too. We’d like to help others also, when all is said and done.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:09 pm
1-Idea’s here. how about twitter updates from you on your page here. Like everytime you tweet its on the side of the page here.
2-A question and answer area would be great.
3-Change your whole sight into a Social network here.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:15 pm
1. Real life stories/examples…
2. Financial tips- budgeting, shopping, household, yard, etc.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:28 pm
1) Keep the Christian perspective
2) I’d love to see articles about what to do/avoid when it comes to purchasing a home – we’re thinking of doing so in the next few years.
3) A weekly Q&A post, or a reader forum, would be great.
4) Advice on how to determine whether to pay off debt of commit money to savings (how to weigh expected rates of return, etc). This is particularly vexing when I debate whether to pay off more student debt or save for retirement with my savings money.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:31 pm
1. I’d like to see more on saving for kid’s college. I always go back and forth with if and how much to save. I know I don’t want to save for the a full ride to Harvard (not that I even could), but I think that I want to help them some.
2. Personal storise of success/failures of yourself and possbily some readers. You could have a guest reader that you interview weekly by choosing them randomly in your comments section, that way you could have very wide range of people to interview.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:35 pm
Congrats on the purchase.
I want to know…
1. How to buy a blog.
2. How to setup automatic tithing.
3. How to get free money for your kid’s college savings.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:35 pm
1. Personal stories of successes/failures/processes/techniques/habits/etc.
2. Web site reviews and relevant links.
3. Frugality tips for real people with jobs, family, and lives.
I have enjoyed this site in the past and look forward to doing so in the future.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:39 pm
I enjoyed hearing from Larry’s personal financial story. It was great to follow his decisions and learn from him!
Also, I like how he intertwined his faith with his blog.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:42 pm
I really like the ‘ask the M-network’ series, hope it continues!
July 21st, 2009 at 5:09 pm
I will miss Larry’s personal stories and writing style, but looking forward to learning more about you and ideas.
Things I would like to learn more about …
1. Frugal Tips and Ideas
2. Investment ideas
3. Website/book reviews
July 21st, 2009 at 5:19 pm
I could really use some success stories on how to make it at a home base buisness.
July 21st, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Creative, organizing tips and ideas to make my life easier.
July 21st, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Advice on how to prepare for a second child.
July 21st, 2009 at 5:44 pm
I enjoyed the personal stories at well. I really need advice on simple and effective ways to invest.
July 21st, 2009 at 5:58 pm
I would love to see posts about family finances and personal finance for 20’somethings/college students.
July 21st, 2009 at 6:33 pm
I’d just appreciate you being you. I know you’ll have a wealth of information to offer.
July 21st, 2009 at 8:59 pm
I would like to see GLBL give snapshots into real people’s financial lives and give feedback on what you think those real people should do further with their finances.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:00 pm
I find that it is not so easy to earn money blogging since most advertisers will depend on PR. I like to know what is the the alternative way to earn money online. I am not good in affiliate so I can never earn any from there.
Your advice is greatly appreciate.
July 21st, 2009 at 9:39 pm
What I like GLBL is a blog that easily understand by people like us
with no knowledge how to make monkey works for us i/o of we work
of money. It teaches us the sense of money.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:01 pm
Firstly, my appreciation for your articles, I enjoyed quite a few of them. I’m new to your site but I am trying to read through whatever captures my interests.
I have been thinking of starting a small business myself, but have been bothered by many “what if”. Your article about “Starting online store” is really helpful. Perhaps you would be able to offer some insights on “Business Franchising”?
Earnestly looking forward to more great write ups from your mighty brain.
July 21st, 2009 at 10:12 pm
I like the personal touch. It’s one thing to share personal finance stories or personal stories. It’s another to show how much you care about helping others. That’s what I enjoy about reading GLBL.
In my mind, while it’s nice to see something on a daily basis, it’s not necessary. This is not Twitter, it’s so much more.
What I’d like to see more of – and something that may come easier for you is the investing tips / habits / steps to take to invest early, often, with diversification and discipline, with no holdups about trading and long-term holding.
Another blog that I read is fundmymutualfund and there is a commitment and caring beyond the financial thought process.
Good Luck with bringing your expertise to words here and I’ll have to check out your prior site as well.
Ketan
July 21st, 2009 at 10:41 pm
I’d like articles about preparing for college expenses and various college fund options.
Look forward to hearing from you!
July 21st, 2009 at 10:49 pm
I like your blog – I find it interesting and current. I would like to continue to see:
1. Current/useful advice to improve the average person’s financial health.
2. Personal stories that we all can relate to.
3. Book and website reviews.
4. Useful links.
Thanks so much and I appreciate your hard work in making this such a good resource.
Carolyn
July 21st, 2009 at 10:56 pm
I would like to read more about starting a business!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Here are my suggestions:
(1) Help demystify financial products. My family personally lost $50,000 because we “invested” in some Lehman structured products that we didn’t understand but was assured by the broker that it was “low risk”. Well, now we know.
(2) Share advice on financial planning, but hopefully you will bring some fresh perspectives. E.g. what are the different types of insurance policies and what are they suitable for. Too often, agents try to push their pet products that may not be suitable for a specific individual.
(3) Share the odd tip – but not with a view to “encourage” herd instinct or greedy buying. Rather, I often like to read about tips and the reasoning behind those tips…to me it’s educational and helps build up my financial IQ.
(4) Be funny!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:25 pm
I am brand new to GLBL and I look forward to reading about frugal tips and budgeting. I would like to see info on the different types of college saving programs and the pros and cons in using them. I liked that this blog is easy to read and you seem open and honest about helping others make better financial decisions. Here’s to getting started- you and me both!!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:41 pm
I too like personal experiences from other readers; “how to be prepared if you get cancer; are you ready for the financial bind if this happens?”
July 21st, 2009 at 11:45 pm
Welcome Mike! I’m looking forward to hearing from you, and all your ideas! I would love to hear more about passive, yet legit ways to make a few more bucks, besides things like a second job (been there, done that most of my life, and it’s VERY hard to find one right now here in Michigan anyway!). And, some layman’s explanations of financial concepts would also be MUCH appreciated, along with your ideas on the best investment places. Again, I’m definitely looking forward to whatever you do, I know it will be helpful and enjoyable to so many of us! Best of luck to you!
July 21st, 2009 at 11:55 pm
First of all, congrats on the purchase.
Things I like from GLBL:
– honest posting… specially from Stew
– put Christian perspective on some of the postings
– The contests. In the past GLBL always gave nice prizes for the contests.
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:12 am
Welcome aboard
Personally, I enjoy the following
1. The personal accounts of dealing with specific issues that highlight frugality or innovative approaches. With your background as a financial planner, I am sure you have seen a wide variety of circumstances tackled well and poorly – respecting the confidentiality of your clients, anecdotes drawn from these experiences would be of help to many people.
2. Smart options for money – not just cheap options (value v price) and how to discern the difference.
3. Economic commentary and opinion.
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:15 am
Forgot to say that I would also like to see more articles regarding passive income – beyond hobbies. That is, ideas to build a business or buy a business (including due diligence processes)
July 22nd, 2009 at 2:32 am
I really like to read about planning for retirement and savings, as well as passive income.
July 22nd, 2009 at 4:05 am
I liked GLBL’s family oriented PF aricles – his article on his son’s observations when they went to a homeless shelter for example.
In future too, such personal stories are what I’m are looking for.
July 22nd, 2009 at 5:50 am
I can give three suggestions.
1. How to budget when someone gets large income all at once
2. How to deal with parental involvement in finances
3. How to share our GLBL lifestyle with our neighbors to help them without offending them.
July 22nd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Welcome! I really enjoy the personal stories and the conversational tone of the site. It is very friendly and welcoming.
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:26 am
What I like to read–personal storieso,both successes and failures.
What I need to read–financial planning, eg are 403b’s a good choice for retirement? Would Roth IRa’s be better?
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:44 am
I love the everyday ideas. I hope you keep those coming.
I like the advice on the bills that we ALL have like groceries, utilities, taxes, etc. In today’s economy, survival may come down to cutting your living expenses to keep afloat. Even those not planning for retirement can benefit from cutting daily expenses.
Thanks for asking!
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:47 am
I like the personal stories. I’m not interested in a blog that simply talks about finances in general–I want to get to know you and your family and feel connected. (And your older child’s the same age as mine!)
I’d like more links to financial news stories. Only one other blog I read does that regularly (Boston Gal’s Open Wallet). I don’t have time to seek them all out on my own and appreciate the links (she links, quotes, and comments on them). Of course, only relevant, interesting ones!
Connections to your readers–such as profiles, questions (and answers), asking us questions (about your own life or from other readers) and then featuring the answers in another post (not just the comments–I never go back to old posts just to read the comments).
Good luck on the new venture!
July 22nd, 2009 at 9:46 am
Here are the topics I enjoy reading about on GLBL:
1. Personal experiences and lessons learned
2. “Home Economist” ideas like gardening and composting.
3. Budgeting tools and tips.
A topic I don’t see much on GLBL but would be interested in reading about is ideas for traveling frugally.
July 22nd, 2009 at 10:04 am
I would suggest topics like
1) leasons learned – both good and bad
2) how to save money
3) how to teach your kids about money – earning/saving/giving
July 22nd, 2009 at 11:08 am
I would like to see posts about everyday savings also,
1. Saving money getting groceries
2. How finances effect all aspects of your life.
3. How the current economy is effecting every day people.
Thanks,
Erik
July 22nd, 2009 at 11:28 am
I would love to see some posts on saving money in regards to people who are Single. And I dont mean, ‘young and not married YET’ people, but “people who arent planning on getting married.” LOL, I’m happily single and plan to stay that way. So many blogs focuz on savings in regards to kids and college funds for them, and I’m more interested in revving up my retirement sabings, plus other savings and investment opportunities.
Thanks!
Laura in Atlanta
July 22nd, 2009 at 11:34 am
Please keep God in your articles. That’s why most of us love this blog.
July 22nd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
I enjoy practical ideas regarding budgeting. I also enjoy hearing personal illustrations. I would like to see some articles on teaching children about handling money.
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:05 pm
Hi Mike! Just wanted to say congrats to all your success and taking over the blog.
It’s awesome to read and get feedback from a Christian’s viewpoint trying to survive and overcome the financial and social lifestyle of this world. Thank you for being such an inspiration to my life and giving me so much help and understanding in my financial woes and worries. I realized from your blog that it’s so important to keep your checkpoint with God first and realized the rewards of being patient and prudent. I’m actually only 25 and single but I think you have been very relevant to me in terms of my family but I was hoping you could have more suggestions for me on how to start early for a person just graduating college and where to invest first and how to do it wisely even with a small first job income with college loans. Also basically how to pay off college loans faster vs credit card debt. What is good consolidation and what is a con for consolidation? What about this year? I know that this year there were a lot of changes. I still haven’t consolidated but should I?
I think it could be good for your kids as well as other parents with kids that just graduated and left with such concerns.
Thanks so much Mike and Stew you guys are a blessing!
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:22 pm
I really enjoy the honesty and the “down to earthness” of your stories. I always enjoy the personal touch with stories about your families and what is good for the kids. What has worked for you.
Thank you and best of luck!
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Congrats on buying GLBL!
What would I like to see? Well, to answer that question, I have to find out why I subscribed to GLBL a few weeks ago, even though I am pretty good about my finances, and I read a bunch of other PF blogs. I think that the name attracted me to it. Very few people get rich overnight, or get out of debt overnight. It is a slow process. You do it in small steps; little by little. Secondly, even though I don’t really think I am religious, I think I am pretty religious. I don’t think about it. I sometimes behave as if, or consider myself to be, not religious, but I pray daily (I think), I know I am nothing without God, all my goals, projects, etc are entrusted in Him… so, that brought me over to GLBL, so that I could keep God in my learning of Money. Does it make sense?
Do I expect you to write about God all the time? No. Do I want you to “fake” that you are religious? No. Do I want you to “use” God to make money? No. What if I ask you to mention God once in a while, but your “god” is different from my God? Will that make me happy just because I see “god” and I think it is God?
Kinda long comment. I think you should just be yourself. God will helps us figure out what’s best through your work, and may be through it all, we will lead each other to Him.
God bless!
July 22nd, 2009 at 8:49 pm
Hi Mike!
I have been a subscriber and follower of GLBL for almost 2 years. What attracted me to the site was the biblical application towards finances that Larry applied to his personal events. It was the same that kept me here.
I don’t expect you to be Larry… that would be totally unfair to you. I do look for continued biblical applications, and I do hope you keep that route. The name GLBL is grounded in Proverbs 13:11.
Thanks, Mike, and I look forward to seeing how things turn out!
July 22nd, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Just found GLBL recently but I appreciate the biblical perspective and that is what keeps me coming back. Good luck!
July 22nd, 2009 at 9:24 pm
Been encouraging and inspiring as I go along reading your articles which I have missed out over the years since I just found out about your site not long ago.
Basically with a huge family of 3 kids and 1 on the way, plus the high cost of living in Singapore, it’s kind of tough. Careful planning and budgeting are very important for husband and me, especially with the ongoing economic recession.
I look forward to more wonderful articles to keep us going.
July 22nd, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Hi, I am a new reader of GLBL and so far I find it really instructive, and I like personal stories I can relate too. I would love to see something about “how to make a budget and stick to it” and maybe stories and example from people.
July 23rd, 2009 at 9:07 pm
I like the articles about money management and the personal stories. I might like to see a few articles on money saving tips.
July 23rd, 2009 at 11:54 pm
I would like some personal stories but from a younger audience from maybe young adults or teens, would also help to broaden your audience
July 23rd, 2009 at 11:59 pm
I would like to see more personal stories from a wider age group, younger adults or teens would be nice to see.
July 24th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
At the bottom of the main page there used to be a link to see the previous articles. Can you add that back?
July 24th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Wow… that’s a lot of comments. I don’t have much new to add except my support for the following:
– First and foremost, keep the tie to Scripture and Christianity… but resist the urge to preach. I’m looking for PF informed by Christianity, not scripture lessons with a bit of PF tacked on.
– Keep the stories personal – tie everything back to what’s going on in your life and why you find it interesting
– Don’t focus too heavily on investing. Every once in a while is good, but I think most of the audience here is still working on the basics.
– Show how having young kids affects your finances.
– Tell stories of your own mistakes with money, how you realized it, and what you did to fix it.
Congrats on buying this blog. I look forward to seeing what you do with it.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
Greetings and Welcome! My requests come from a purely personal stance! My husband and I have been married for 23 years and are the parents of two wonderful sons. Throughout our marriage, I have been a
SAHM. We have had credit card theft more than once and my spending got us into debt; also, more than once.
1.) I belong to Debtor’s Anonymous ( via their literature only ) and I am doing pretty well. Are there any other suggestions you have for me and the high I get from spending?
2.) Since I am not employed, are there any jobs that I can do from
home that aren’t a scam?
3.) We will have two sons in college soon at the same time? We
would appreciate the best financial possibilities for their schooling.
4.) I like to help others who are less fortunate than we are,
so when I give to charities, how do I really know who is receiving benefits from any contributions?
5.) We only have the savings plan at my husband’s work.
Should we try to save in other ways?
Many thanks!
Cindi
July 25th, 2009 at 12:13 am
1) True-life financial stories. What’s your financial life like? How did you get where you are?
2) Career-oriented posts – productivity, increasing income, inc.
3) As other have said, I would like to more posts about issues relevant to young people. We’ve got time on our side, but we still need to make good decisions now to provide for our futures.
4) Debate posts. It’s be great to see something more unusual than, say, credit cards v. cash or rent v. own.
July 25th, 2009 at 8:22 am
I love the Christian perspective–that’s really appealing to me. I’d also love to see articles on what happens right after getting out of debt. How do you motivate yourself to keep going and what are things you can do?
July 25th, 2009 at 9:44 am
I follow GLBL via RSS and often drop by the site to read comments. I like the way you weave religious lessons throughout the posts, to keep things in perspective. Personally, I would like to see more reviews of financial services (cards, accounts, etc). I appreciate the analysis of policies (i.e. new gov’t financial laws etc).
Most of all, I find posts driven by analysis very useful. If you’re plotting out retirement or some other financial goal, most will assume you say X dollars by Y year to achieve that goal. Financial bloggers know better! They take into account all kinds of factors that I normally wouldn’t have thought of. That analysis is extremely valuable, insightful and helps us readers.
So more reviews of services and more analysis! If not, we’ll all keep reading, because the site is rock solid.
Cheers mate.
July 25th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
A post on the different ways to get “bored money” as nicely described by mymoneyblog.com.
July 25th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
I fall in love with GLBL because it has a personal experience story about financial. I would like to suggest for better.
Add some review about site that help in manage your financial?
Or site that can help you in gain money?
How about story for teenager? Maybe you can tell how teenager also can gain some money? Maybe from blogging, part-time or etc?
I also would like suggest:
Hope you can change the Archive, About or etc to the sidebar. For the first time I come to this blog. I can’t find who own this awesome blog.
Thank your for the contest.
July 25th, 2009 at 11:32 pm
What i’m like from this blog is so simple. That’s because the concept of this blog. As written on your site about : Write about personal financial with Christian Bible perspective. What i want to ask is : Is there other blog like this? I think the concept is rare. And because to write using bible perspective, i’m sure all tips and trick is good and not againts the law, so we can feel safe. That’s only, so simple but it’s true.
What i wanna read for this blog in the future is :
1. Of course great article like you already write. That’s mean, to keep your article based on concept of this blog.
2. Article from guest blogger. I hope the article is came from success Christian people. So it’s not only meet the blog concept motivate us.
3. I hope in every article, you write an bible quote which related to the article. It’s because i find a lot of article is great, but i’m confuse about it relation with bible. This is also to meet your blog concept (write by bible perspective)
Thanks…!!!
May the God be with you always
July 27th, 2009 at 12:26 am
I’ve always liked the biblical/Christian perspective of this blog, as well as hearing GLBL’s personal stories related to the topic at hand.
July 27th, 2009 at 9:41 am
I enjoy the down-to-earth financial advice with a Christian perspective. With my tight budget, I am encouraged by “Gather Little by Little!” Keep the tips coming and good luck! :)
July 27th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
I would like to read more about budgeting, and creative ways to save.
July 27th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
Proof read, spell check. Good luck!
July 28th, 2009 at 2:02 am
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading.Thanks for sharing the information. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
July 31st, 2009 at 12:55 pm
I love your blog and am a new reader. I love hearing about what personally works for you and your family. The latest post about eating out for lunch was great!
July 31st, 2009 at 5:40 pm
Because finances are so hush hush in our society I like hearing about how others deal with money or the lack of it.
September 2nd, 2009 at 8:17 pm
I am new to your blog but it seem to make me like we are family. I think the blog bring people together so I love the blog. To read what others have to say is very interesting. It is a pure desire of a wonderful connection. It is meeting new people and reading others words of counsel and wisdom and sometimes in humor. Something I feel like showing you off like family childrens pictures. If a blog gets you to think then it is good to have one. Our brains and our emotions will keep a person living just reading your blog. Thank you. Blessings! :) Tel