Nightmare Train in Crazytown

My 2.5yr old's favorite movie right now is The Little Engine That Could (2011), affectionately called "I think I can," which is just adorable when he asks to watch it, "want I think I can on TV Mama!" In the story, adapted from the classic book The Little Engine That Could, There's a big train that appears to want to help the little blue engine, but turns into the big scary nightmare train. I feel like that's been the markets recently.

The downslide in global financial markets had been a teeth-grinding, wild and crazy ride to witness and difficult to navigate, even for those of us working in the financial sector. "Crazytown USA" said a wise observer I know.

For those of you considering changes to your personal accounts, 401k, IRAs and 529s, please be especially cautious of doing so at times like this. Market timing is difficult for professionals and non-professionals alike and moving out of risk assets (stocks) at the bottom = locking in losses while moving into safe havens (bonds, gold) at the top is no better.

Below are a few articles on the subject of personal finance:

• Timing the Market Risky for the Average Joe *may require subscription
• After the Downgrade: 10 Steps to Protect Your Retirement
• Bargain Hunters Beware *may require subscription
• Buy Stocks, Sell Bonds

**please note these are resources and do not constitute investment advice

Be careful out there!
It'sABusyLife,
Danielle