Mighty Bargain Hunter is hosting the July 7 edition of the Carnival of Personal Finance. Here are some of the posts you’ll find on all things financial:

• Passive Family Income presents Preparing for house guests and added expenses: “I have brainstormed several expenses (direct or indirect) that we will incur while my in-laws will be visiting us.” I could also add from my family’s perspective that expected company will spur you to finishing those long-postponed household and yard projects. But we benefit from that work long after our guests leave!
• Mend Your Money presents Shopping too much?: “They’re using shopping to numb the worry and stress of unsteady income, shaky jobs, treacherous home mortgages and rising food and gas prices. When they feel bad for whatever reason, off to the mall, bookstore or even grocery store they go.” Here’s a Monroe on a Budget way to shake off stress (during summer months). Go find a playground – my favorite spot happens to be Veteran’s Park along the River Raisin – and get on a swing. I’m not worried about taking those swings from the kids, they would rather play at the new playground at nearby Munson Park.
• Cash Money Life presents The Other America: “The falling dollar and increasing oil prices are bleeding into other areas of our economy, leading to higher priced commodities that affect everyone. Especially hard hit are those who rely upon food stamps for their groceries every month.” How do you get frugal living information to the food stamp families? The Internet is a wonderful resource for families who crossed the digital hurdle when they had money – but how to you reach the other populations? The newspaper where I work, The Monroe Evening News, is trying really hard to do that through its print edition. Local readers should watch for some new features coming soon.
  
• Monroe on a Budget presents College financing 08-09: the rules have changed. “Even if your family’s personal financial circumstances have remained the same, you may find that financial aid package to be much different mix of assistance programs as compared to previous’ years.” Some of the college financial aid programs Michigan families relied on in previous years are no longer available. What’s your plan B?