Talkin' 'bout my generation

Take a look at this article about "boomerang kids" - college grads who then move back in with their parents.

It's probably not news to anyone who knows me that I think that's just stupid, but then again I'm of the idea that it's far better to be completely broke but independent rather than have a bit more saved up but relying on someone else to get there.

But, okay, I'm stupid and stubborn. Not news. Scroll down to the end of that article:

TAKE TEACHABLE MOMENTS. College grads may have aced their physics and linguistics exams, but most still need help with basic paycheck economics. Have meetings to discuss paycheck deductions like Social Security taxes. Help them decide how much to contribute to their 401(k) plan (as much as possible, especially if they aren't paying rent), and where to invest it. If you don't feel competent to be doling out all the advice, spring for one or two sessions with a financial planner who charges hourly fees.

Why do so many people seem to assume that people graduate college never having received a paycheck - implying that someone has made it to, what, 21 years of age without having a job? Even a job at Wendy's over summer break? Lifeguarding? Hell, babysitters get paid and have to pay taxes, right? I mean, I suppose there are people who can do that (ie, go through college without themselves working), but...I'd imagine that they're of a financial background where money's not really an issue.

I grant that the 401(k) thing is valid. I also grant that I'm pretty much a financial idiot and my knowledge there goes as far as "It's some sort of retirement savings plan thingy, usually offered as a benefit." But if you get a job offering that, wouldn't it come with some sort of literature explaining it? And presumably if you've 'aced your exams' though are apparently still a doofus, you know how to read, right?

It bugs the hell out of me when people automatically assume that everyone in my generation/everyone in the college age bracket is a helpless idiot who needs hand-holding.

Back from a winter wonderland

Christmas was OK. Nothing stupendous, but it was nice to see family again. It would have been nice to have a bit more time, but thus is life. It was also great to get down to Maryland to see some relations on that side of the family, as I don't know when I last saw any of them (at least a year and a half ago, probably more). So, it was pleasant.

More personally, since returning to the US, I've decided to drink far less soda. I'm not going to even try to cut it out completely because I quite honestly like soda. But in England I was drinking almost soda and coffee exclusively, because juice costs more and doesn't last as long, and I'm not a big water drinker. So I've decided that I'm going to limit myself to an occasional treat, less than daily. Who knows how it'll hold up once I go back to school.

Also, I decided today as we were cruising out of suburban Maryland: America is just stupidly in love with our own flag, and I don't understand it at all.