Okay there isn’t really much of a difference between personal finance in the US and personal finance in Canada, but bear with me.  Ever since Robin Williams referred to Canada as “a loft apartment over a really great party” and asked “how can you take an economic crisis seriously if the currency is called the loonie“ I’ve always looked at Canada with a comical fondness.  In actuality I have tremendous respect for Canada and they are an important partner in with the US in policy, commerce, and tourism.  If you don’t believe me, drive to Myrtle Beach or Orlando in the summer.  I for one was fortunate enough to visit Canada many years ago with my family.  We barely crossed the border, but we did spend a night or two in Niagara Falls (on the Canadian side).

Editor’s Choice: Four Pillars

It’s with that in mind that I want to highlight the best Canadian personal finance blogger I know.  Mike runs a b;og called Four Pillars that I’ve been reading for a long time.  I want to thank him for featuring Weakonomics this week but I also want to point out the fascinating content he’s putting together over there.  I’d never heard of Leyland Motors before and you probably haven’t either.  They went bankrupt in 2005 after a long and drawn out process of government bailouts.  Read the story, and see if it sounds familiar.  Ahh history, you’re like a spinning wheel, or rim.

Here’s the best of the rest I’ve been reading this week.

The Finance Buff recently got the opportunity to use his emergency fund, but there was a problem.  We all know our funds can be accessed in a few days, but what do you do if you need cash right at that second?  Read his story and heed his advice that you “test” your fund every once in a while and make sure you can get to your cash when you need it.  Read what I do in the comments of the post.
Flexo of Consumerism Commentary points out there are many instances where the use of debt is a good idea.  This goes against what the Dave Ramseys of the world always scream.  I too believe debt can be an advantageous tool, however also believe that in personal (as opposed to business) cases it’s still best to pay it off as quickly as possible.

J Money of Budgets Are Sexy received an email from his pops that had the top 10 signs the economy really is that bad.  I won’t spoil the jokes, but I’ll give you my favorite:
“When the bank returns your check marked insufficient funds’ you have to call the bank and ask if they meant you or them.”
Duel Income No Kids links to two outstanding articles from the NY Times that discuss the government deficit.  If you want to see a breakdown of this $2 trillion mess be sure to check them out.  This is the sort of topic I love to write about but sometimes just don’t have the time.  So go read!

Just a couple of housekeeping bits and I’ll let you go.  Be sure to check out my posts this week featured in the Carnival of Personal Finance and the Money Hackers Carnival.

WIN A FREE BOOK!!!!!

Oh and lest we forget the most important thing of all!  Have you submitted a comment to enter to win a free copy of Biography of the Dollar yet?  You should!  There’s three ways to enter and you can do all three.  It won’t take a second.  Have a great weekend.

Photo: imuttoo

By The Weakonomist

The Weakonomist is the founder of Weakonomics. Clicking the picture of the puppy will tell you more about him. If you like what you're reading consider subscribing to the blog, following him on Twitter, and checking out the related posts below. Please consider a donation if you really enjoy Weakonomics.

categories: links, personal finance