Imagine ... NO exposure to downside risk! So instead of 4.75% return on a CD you can receive 3 times as much, with no risk to your principal or earnings on that principle. They are so safe they qualify for placement in IRA, 401K, and Keogh private plans.

Maturities are available from 12 - 36 months, and are taxed as capital gains when they mature.

CAVEAT: Do Not use "contestable" or policies that offer to buy back annually or at maturity. They are more likely unregistered securities. Ask only for one who represents a viatical settlement provider who is licensed, bonded, insured. Make sure policies are "traditional, conforming, non-contestable" viatical settlements.

Isn't it time you join professionals? Your Banker won't tell you! Nor your Insurance Broker or Attorney! Not even your Fund or Trust Manager! For more info on Viatical Settlements and reputable firms, please visit this page;

http://www.quackwatch.com/02ConsumerProtection/viatical.html

Coffee/Muffin mornings:

I'm guilty of this? I have to have my morning coffee (the office coffee is not very good) but at least I've learned to cut back on muffins and donuts. At $3.00/day over course of a month you are looking at a potential saving $60.

Lunch:

I finally stopped being lazy and started preparing my own lunch. Not only is it expensive but also fast food is not entirely healthy either. If you save on average $5/day that adds up to $100 for month.

Sales patterns:

In my experience, Christmas merchandise is discounted 50% or more a day or two before Christmas and following Christmas.

Also consider buying seasonal products (boots, winter/summer clothing) as seasons change. At times it might be difficult to find your exact size or colour but luckily that's usually not case. We're talking savings of 40-60% and sometimes even more.

Case in point, I bought a leather jacket from Eddie Bauer last spring which was regularly priced at $498, and which was reduced to $199 and then further reduced by 30% during their annual spring sale. What made deal even sweeter was that I had a $75 gift certificate, which I earned through MyPoints.com. Not a bad deal and one, which I'm proud of because I don't really have shoppers luck. As much as I like a deal, I can never find exactly what I'm looking for... maybe I'm too picky.

Something else I noticed where I live, gas prices are usually at their lowest Thursday through Monday and by Monday afternoon gas prices go up 5 - 8 cents per liter. However, pay attention to price patterns and news in gas industry to have an understanding about where gas prices are heading and how it might affect you.

Month end recap:

By end of month, depending on your lifestyle choices and spending habits, you just might end up with an extra $50, $100 or more that you thought you never had. You can do it without depriving yourself and without a noticeable difference in your day-to-day life.

It's a balance between living for today and planning for future. It's not always easy but it's worth it!

Think of these little sacrifices as an investment, which will reap you multiple rewards many times over.