On Saturday, Team CU1 walked along with 6,000 other moms, sisters, grandmas, aunts, daughters, co-workers, neighbors and friends at the Alaska Run for Women in Anchorage.  All of these amazing women join together every year for one reason, to raise awareness and fight against breast cancer.

I met my husband ten years ago, when I was a green, small town girl just visiting home for summer break from college. Dan was living the bachelor life, which meant frozen dinners, dirty socks, and not knowing how to monitor his bank account. He spent his money like a free bird each month, and when his card was finally declined, he lived on Ramen noodles until payday!

I’ve traveled down a dark path these past few days. While absent mindedly surfing the web, I read an article entitled “Why it’s SO worth it to buy designer brands!” This article lauded the cut and quality of fancy pants, purses, etc. – of course claiming that each piece of apparel was well worth the price of the designer’s name. Is this true? Do I need fancy pants and an empty wallet to look and feel my best?

My couch has peanut butter on it. Underneath, there are remnants of a Raisin Bran breakfast, and I can almost guarantee that a half dozen utensils have been eaten by the overstuffed cushions. My house is a messy eater. Or is it my family?

Yesterday I packed my car full of kids, swimsuits and sunblock and high-tailed it to the beach. We sunbathed on blankets, waded in icy water and swatted at mosquitos – all with the broad smile of Alaskans who appreciate any shade of summer we get! This beach visit was my "brain break" for the week, where I relaxed after a long day and didn't think of anything important.

Most days, I feel pretty on top of my to-do list. Certain tasks are on deck each week, and if I follow my project road map, I can reach the weekend with a grand sense of accomplishment. Unfortunately, when it comes to finances, I don’t feel as “in control.” Unexpected expenses arise, interest rates fluctuate, and it’s tough not to splurge on take-out after a long day. What’s a girl to do?!

Well, I have some ideas.

Have you noticed all the greenhouse goodies filling up stores these days? Starter plants and flowers are out in full bloom, waiting for you to liven up your living space or grow a greenhouse of your own. I’m a sucker for pretty plants, and each year I spend a bit too much on foliage for each corner of my house. Problem is, I tend to kill them. And that gets costly.

This spring, I have a new resolution. I’m going to set a plant budget, and I’m going to fund it via “spare change.” Maybe plants don’t inspire you to overspend like they do me, but this week, give my method a try with your personal shopping weak spot!

Medical expenses stress me out. For many folks, health insurance can be quite costly – and when it comes time to use your benefits, there’s that pesky out-of-pocket expense as well! Since medical costs add up quickly (and oftentimes unexpectedly!), they’re a serious factor in anybody’s annual budget. What can you do to protect your financial health from sick days?

First, know your health insurance options. Choose a plan (through your employer or elsewhere) that best meets your typical, annual needs. How often do you visit the doctor? Do you have any major medical needs, such as an upcoming pregnancy or procedure? The way you plan to use your insurance will influence whether a high or low deductible is appropriate. Don’t forget to research prescription benefits as well! By comparing your insurance plan options, you’ll be prepared for the associated monthly costs and gain some insight into what you’ll pay when your benefits are actually used.

Way to go, Alaska! It’s mid-April, and for many of us, the snow seems to be at bay (for the time being). We’re enjoying a bit of authentic SPRING – and it’s even arrived on time! Disclaimer: if it’s snowing outside your window right now, you may want to stop reading today’s blog. Go curl up under a blanket. I’ll bring you some hot chocolate later.