Kalen Bruce's Blog

Affordable Vacations, Simple Experiences, and “Surprise Bags”

Take a few MOMENTS to relax and read.

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Vacations don’t have to include Disney World or an expensive Caribbean cruise. I actually came up with 25 affordable vacation spots that include locations in all parts of the states and even the rest of the world. If you plan well, and well in advance, you can travel to some nice places without going broke doing it. And go during off-season. This is a common and obvious point, but we often forget it when planning. Off-season means so...

Finance in Schools, Adding Value, and AI Travel Itineraries

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Why isn’t finance taught in school? This is a common question, but did you know there is actually a reason? Well, one reason (more on the conspiracy theory side, but it could be true) is that the government/large corporations need “worker bees,” so they want most of the workforce to be followers. Maybe. Makes a lot of sense, but finance journalist Dan Kadlec, actually found these definite five reasons in his research:

Only one in...

20 Unforgettable Family Travel Experiences to Try Before the Kids Grow Up

Every parent knows that childhood flies by in the blink of an eye. You’re rocking them to sleep one minute, and the next, they’re packing for college. That’s why making the most of these fleeting years is essential, and one of the best ways to do that is through shared adventures. The right family travel experiences can strengthen bonds, create lasting memories, and teach your kids invaluable lessons about the world.

Here’s a list of 20 unforgettable family travel experiences that will shape ...

How Minimalism Can Bring Families Closer Together

Minimalism isn’t just about decluttering your home—it’s about making space for what truly matters. For families, adopting a minimalist mindset can create more room for connection, meaningful experiences, and genuine togetherness. In a world full of distractions, embracing simplicity can bring families closer together in ways that are both practical and profound.

Reducing Mental Clutter for More Quality Time

One of the biggest benefits of minimalism is reducing the mental clutter that comes...

Financial Milestones, Fun Minimalism, and Minimalist Packing

Take a few MOMENTS to relax and read.

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There are so many aspects of finances that it’s hard to know you’ve hit all the important milestones for your kids. There are things they should know by each age, and I’ve simplified that into this quick article.

OOPPORTUNITY

Project 333 is a minimalist fashion challenge created by Courtney Carver that encourages people to dress with just 33 items (including clothing, shoes, and accessories) for three months. The Capsule Wa...

Financial Milestones for Kids: What They Should Know by Age 5, 10, and 15

Raising financially smart kids isn’t about handing them a stack of personal finance books and hoping they absorb the knowledge. It’s about small, practical lessons that build up over time. Teaching kids about money early on helps them develop financial responsibility, confidence, and a mindset for success. But what should they know at different ages? Here’s a roadmap of financial milestones for kids at ages 5, 10, and 15.

Make sure to read the important reminder at the end too…

By ...

The Ultimate Guide to Minimalist Packing for Family Trips

Packing for family trips can feel like an overwhelming game of Tetris—one where each piece has sentimental value, practical importance, or the potential to spark a meltdown if forgotten. But with the right mindset and a solid plan, it doesn’t have to be stressful. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pack efficiently, save space, and avoid the dreaded “Where’s my favorite [insert random item]?” moments.

Check out the most affordable places if you’re looking for ...

How to Talk to Kids About Minimalism (Without Making It Boring)

Minimalism is a powerful concept for simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters. But explaining it to kids can be tricky. How do you talk to kids about minimalism in a way that’s engaging, relatable, and not boring? Children naturally love their stuff—so it’s essential to approach the topic with care, creativity, and plenty of practicality.

That’s why I wrote a comprehensive guide to help you teach minimalism to kids, filled with actionable tips, real-life examples, and ways to make ...

Chores & Responsibility, Emotional Attachment, and a Travel Tool

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Teaching your kids to help with chores isn’t just about keeping the house clean — it’s about building life skills. Chores teach responsibility, teamwork, and the value of contributing to something bigger than themselves. It also helps kids develop a strong work ethic, learn accountability, and appreciate the effort it takes to maintain a home. Plus, when kids see their role in the family, they gain confidence and a sense of belonging...

What Chores Can Teach Kids About Work and Wealth: A Practical Guide for Parents

If you’re wondering how to instill a solid work ethic and financial responsibility in your kids, look no further than your own home. What chores can teach kids goes far beyond just keeping a clean house — they lay the foundation for lifelong lessons about work, money, and even how to manage their time and responsibilities. Let’s explore how chores are more than just daily tasks and how you can implement strategies that shape your child’s view on work and wealth.

Why Chores Are More Than Just ...