There are many websites, articles, television shows and books that describe how to handle difficult financial situations. All provide an instant cure for your financial woes. Our objective is to show how to prevent these difficult situations (or at least be ready for them) by careful planning on a decade by decade basis. This approach was pioneered by my late uncle, an attorney and financial analyst, and used by several of his millionaire clients and a poor one, namely the author. How to approach annuities, taxes and pension plan borrowing are also discussed as they may apply to your needs. A mini-glossary of the relevant terms is also included to clarify any new words you may not be familiar with. Remember to always check multiple credible sources before you commit to a plan of action. Also, be sure to review your plans on a regular basis. Good luck.

After the devastation of a miscarriage wore off, we decided to pursue the possibility of adopting a child. We subsequently adopted two lovely children. The process was so complicated, cumbersome and costly that I decided to write a book on it to help others through the process and minimize the complications, cost and cumbersome paperwork. Helpful bullet points are at the end of each chapter.

Using practical experience and discussions with numerous patients, doctors, and attorneys, as well as the Wall Street Journal, I have pieced together a workingman's guide to financial matters. It is written in a simplified manner which is easy to understand and without any technical jargon. It is compiled in a matter such that one can address any problem in any order, yet be fully informed by the time one reaches the end of the book. The object is to increase your wealth while not starving to death or depriving yourself of the pleasures of life. However, you may have to give up that daily $3.00 cup of StarbucksT coffee for a cheaper blend OR go to Starbucks less often.