The Carnival of Personal Finance for Oct. 27 was hosted by Master Your Card. Here are some of the posts you’ll find on all things financial:

• FruGal presents Is the credit crunch threatening your relationship?: “In many couples one person takes sole responsibility for the finances – paying bills, etc. If you are going through a rough time, financially, share the burden between you a little more fairly.” At the very least, the financial detail person should explain what’s going on and ask for suggestions. This is a situation where you need as many ideas as possible to get through as best as possible.
• Managing Money God’s Way presents Can you cosign this loan for me?: “The bank is requiring a cosigner because your friend or family member has already been determined to be a risk at repaying the loan. If the bank doesn’t trust them to repay the loan, why do you?” I remember a car dealer being so hungry for a car sale they suggested I find a co-signer. I didn’t like that idea and bought a cheaper car from a different dealer. My credit was fine – the problem was my debt-to-income ratio.
  
• The Wisdom Journal presents The return of layaway: “One year for mother’s birthday, my brother went to the store and bought a few items she wanted out of layaway. She was thrilled when she opened her gifts.” Now, that’s a clever way to make sure you picked the right gift!

The Festival of Frugality for Oct. 28 was hosted by Living Well on Less. Here are some of the posts you’ll find on frugal living concepts:

• Economic Crunch presents 10 tips for cheap eats at work: “Save lunches out for entertaining clients (which can be expensed or deducted) or social events (birthdays, new employees).” I have been known to “do lunch” in downtown Monroe with friends or co-workers. There are several restaurants within two blocks of the newspaper office and I have my favorite places. But for me, lunch out is saved for special occasions.
• Higher Education Weblog presents Cut your living expenses in half: “Buy clothing in neutral colors such as black, red, navy, white and khaki. It’s easier to mix and match outfits!” My everyday socks are white or black, and I have only a pair or two of frivolous socks. I made that choice when I realized the peach yarn in my socks did not match, and never would, the peach yarn on my sweater.
• Monroe on a Budget presents Frugal living tasks you can do in the dance school lobby: “Network with other moms for hand-me-down and second-hand rehearsal outfits and dance shoes that might fit your kids.” The Economic Crunch blogger, linked above, liked this post!