We’ve made it to the final article in the How to Write a Cover Letter series. Yay! And just like in the How to Write a Resume series, I’m ending with a bang by giving you a few free cover letter templates for your downloading pleasure. Writing a cover letter is pleasurable, right? Think positive people!

Anyfreetemplate, landing that job interview with the right (write?) cover letter is a heck of a lot easier when you’ve got a few cover letter examples and free cover letter templates to play with.

I’ve put the cover letter templates in Microsoft Word format (just like the free resume templates), to simplify life for everyone. Now, a few words of caution — I’ve never been a fan of generic cover letter templates since they lack honesty, so please try to customize these templates to bring an authentic voice to your application. Now let’s get downloading! Wheee!

Cover Letter Template: Classic

Choose the Classic cover letter format if you’re applying to a traditional organization, require a business letter format, and you can be brief in a single page.

Free Download: Classic Cover Letter Template
(Microsoft Word Format)

Here’s the same Classic cover letter template, but this one contains example content.

Free Download: Classic Cover Letter Example
(Microsoft Word Format)

Cover Letter Template: Contemporary

Choose the Contemporary cover letter format if you’ve got stellar skills to highlight in bullet points and you’re applying to a less traditional field.

Free Download: Contemporary Cover Letter Template
(Microsoft Word Format)

Here’s the same Contemporary cover letter template, but this one contains example content.

Free Download: Contemporary Cover Letter Example
(Microsoft Word Format)

Cover Letter Conclusions

Phew! I am so beyond thrilled to have finished the How to Write a Cover Letter series for you. If you’ve been following this blog for a while, then you know how much effort and time I put into these posts, and I sincerely hope they find you well and help you even a little bit. I know it’s not easy to put yourself out there when looking for work, but highlighting your best skills in a killer cover letter is a sure-fire way to get closer to landing that job interview.

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

It’s always a little bit easier to polish up a resume or write a cover letter when you’ve got a few resume cover letter samples to mull over. Since I’ve spent eons mulling over and contemplating job applications, I’ll spare you some grief and just give you some sample cover letters for free.

Both of these cover letter examples are based on the Classic and Contemporary Cover Letter Formats, so if you’ve read through this series then you’ll know what I’m squawking about. If you’re looking at your computer screen with a blank stare, don’t fret. This blog is a fret-free zone. Got it? Good!

Each sample cover letter includes a little bio of the example job seeker to give you an idea if a particular cover letter format is a fit for you. So be sure to grab your target job, match your skills to the employer’s requirements, and get downloading these free cover letter samples. Ohh, and there are a few free resume examples available for download too. Aren’t I a super nice gal? Um, don’t answer that.

Classic Cover Letter Examples

The Classic cover letter format is the traditional method of formatting a cover letter since the content resembles a business letter.

Job Seeker Bio: Cindy Smyth, Administrative Assistant

In this sample cover letter, job seeker Cindy Smyth is applying for a job as an administrative assistant in the financial industry. She has opted to use the Classic cover letter format since her application is brief and the company she is applying to is fairly traditional.

Free Download: Classic Cover Letter Example
(Administrative Assistant Example)

Cover Letter Tips

• Compare Cindy’s sample cover letter with her sample resume and the target job. See how they match?
• Be sure to keep your Classic cover letter brief and stick to one page.
• Highlight your strengths and match your skills to employer requirements.

Contemporary Cover Letter Examples

The Contemporary cover letter format starts as a regular business letter, but instead of selling your skills in paragraphs, just list your stuff in a few bullet points. It’s easiest to write a Contemporary cover letter by copying the strongest points from your resume.

Job Seeker Bio: Jane Smith, Software Developer

In this sample cover letter, job seeker Jane Smith is the perfect candidate for the Contemporary cover letter format.

She has skills that are easily highlighted in bulleted points and her industry is not traditional. Due to the number of applicants in the technical field, I bet her hiring manager would appreciate a scannable cover letter.

Free Download: Contemporary Cover Letter Example
(Software Developer Example)

Cover Letter Tips

• Compare Jane’s sample cover letter with her sample resume and the target job. See how they match?
• It’s easiest to write a Contemporary cover letter after the resume, since the best points are pulled from the latter.
• Don’t be lazy and just list points. Be sure to write a solid introduction and finish with a flourish.

I keep getting emails about my resume advice and I love your feedback. Thank you! Please let me know if these sample cover letters are helpful. Now stay tuned for the next (and last) installment of the How to Write a Cover Letter series since I may include a free cover letter template (or two).

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

I’ve been dreading the continuation of the How to Write a Cover Letter series. It’s not because I’m lazy. But getting my motor revved and my writing in gear to explain resume cover letter formats is a bit of a drag.

Since you’re reading this you’re probably spinning your wheels too. Yep, getting ready to write a cover letter can make anyone feel a little deflated — I don’t care how good your engine.

But no fear. I’ll speed ahead and make this bloggy post short and simple. Because when it comes to winning the cover letter race, the shortest and simplest formats reach the checkered flag first. Swoosh!

There are two cover letter formats I’d like you to take for a drive. I’ll get super creative and call them the Classic and the Contemporary formats. Snort. So get your seat belt fastened and let’s get this over with fast.

The Classic Cover Letter Format

The Classic cover letter is the most common format, and it’s the type most prospective employers expect to see. The Classic is the traditional method of formatting a cover letter where the content resembles a simple business letter. Here’s how to know if this format is for you:

Use the Classic cover letter format when:

• You’re applying to traditional organizations.
• You can stick to a single page.
• You can keep it brief.

A Classic cover letter works well for traditional jobs where sticking to conservative business practices lands you the job interview. I’ve also used the Classic format when applying to an internal position since the hiring manager preferred classic letters and was aware of my skills. Indeed, it helps to know what the hiring manager prefers.

The biggest problem with this cover letter format is the length — many job seekers go overboard and write a multiple page essay boasting their stuff. This is a “fail” since a long meandering mess buries your skills, fast. Most hiring managers spend seconds reading a resume and barely scan cover letters. If you can’t grab their attention at first glance, all your cover letter writing skills are a waste.

The best approach with the Classic cover letter format is to write brief paragraphs filled with relevant job experience, applicable skills, and outstanding accomplishments. Here is the basic Classic cover letter format:

Classic Cover Letter Format Example

Your Contact Information

• Name, Address, Phone Number, Email

Employer’s Contact Information

• Name and Title of hiring manager
• Organization Name and Address

First Paragraph

• Identify the position
• State why you’re right for the job

Second Paragraph

• State why you want to work for the company
• Show how you’re a good fit
• Use examples that highlight your experience

Final Paragraph

• Request an interview
• Thank the hiring manager

Closing

• Sincerely,
• Your name

I’ve covered the structure of the Classic cover letter in detail in Anatomy of a Killer Cover Letter. Check it out for some additional goodness.

The Contemporary Cover Letter Format

The Contemporary cover letter format is a little bit different — it tends to get noticed. And getting noticed amongst a bunch of applicants is how you land a job interview. This format starts with the basics, but instead of singing your praises in paragraphs you just list your skills using simple bullets.

Sure, using the right keywords, action words, and avoiding these cover letter pitfalls helps too. Here’s how to know if this format is for you:

Use the Contemporary cover letter format when:

• You’ve got stellar skills to highlight.
• Your skills match employer requirements.
• You want your cover letter to get noticed.

Since hiring managers scan piles of cover letters trying to find the right fit, it’s important to highlight your stuff fast — and the Contemporary method gets your message across at lightning speed. Here is the basic Contemporary cover letter format:

Contemporary Cover Letter Format Example

Your Contact Information

• Name, Address, Phone Number, Email

Employer’s Contact Information

• Name and Title of hiring manager
• Organization Name and Address

First Paragraph

• Identify the position
• State why you’re right for the job

Second Paragraph
Use THREE bullet points to highlight:

1. Quantifiable skills that match employer requirements
2. Your experience
3. Your accomplishments

Final Paragraph

• Request an interview
• Thank the hiring manager

Closing

• Sincerely,
• Your name

There you have it! Two cover letter formats to help you write a winning job application, get noticed, and land a job interview. Next I’ll share some sample cover letters and perhaps a cover letter template (or two).

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Booties!

Now, I’ve never been one for doggie dress-up or feline fashion since “pet wear” is expensive and mostly silly, but there are indeed times when a dear pet can benefit from winter footwear. So yes, when the weather outside is frightful I do protect my dog’s paws with the super durable Muttluks booties.

I’m pretty impressed with Muttluks since they’ve lasted many seasons on the farm. If your pet is suffering with dry cracked paws, a good dollop of Bag Balm on the foot pads and in between the toes is super frugal, healing, and helpful too. I use this balmy stuff on my own hands and feet too, so there.

To answer your most pressing dog bootie questions I’ve put together this video showing you how they go on and whether our mutt likes them. I’ll let you be the judge of the latter.

Backyard Chickens!

Now let’s talk chickens. Last year I had some major plans to build a little coop and house some backyard chickens since I love a good project and because organic eggs are tasty. All of my fine feathered plans took a left turn when a flying truck wheel nearly killed us in this car crash. Dealing with whiplash, replacing the car, and trying to promote my book were all I could handle — mentally and physically. So now I’m feeling better and back to sourcing chickens, feed, and finding coop plans. If you’ve got some backyard chicken knowledge then please do get clucky and share your comments.

Link Love

I’ve rounded up a series of financial and frugal posts from various blogs around the blogosphere. Enjoy!

Financial Fun for Everyone

• Would You Relocate for the Perfect Job? | Wise Bread
• How I Paid off $63,000 of Debt in 11 Months | Fiscal Geek
• Haiti Earthquake Relief – How To Help! | Million Dollar Journey
• Personal Financial Statements Shouldn’t Be Top Secret | Budgets Are Sexy
• Bringing Back the Organizing Challenge | Organizing Junkie
• Clutter Free Home: 6 Tips | Blogger For Hire
• What are the S&P Dividend Aristocrats? | Bargaineering
• Your Spouse: Financial Teammate or Financial Enemy? | No Debt Plan
• 3 Ways to Get Started Investing with $1,000 or Less | Debt Free Adventure
• Save Money and Protect Yourself When You Are On Vacation | Gather Little By Little
• What Are Opportunity Costs? – Textbook Personal Finance | Mrs. Micah
• Should I Buy ETFs Or Index Funds? | ABC’s of Investing
• Book Review: SuperFreakonomics | Four Pillars
• Real Rate Of Investment Return | The Smartest Consumer
• When And How To File A Credit Report Dispute | Amateur Asset Allocator
• 6 Tips to Lower Cost on Your Auto Insurance Policy | Good Financial Cents
• Is Variable Life Insurance the Best Investment for You | Consumer Boomer
• Is there such thing as good debt? | Personal Finance By The Book
• How To Save Serious Money in 2010 | Studenomics
• Don’t Forget About The Free YNAB Giveaway | Wisdom Journal
• Prepare Your Own Taxes – It’s Not Hard | Being Frugal
• Alternative Investment Options | Debt Kid
• Ambitious 2010 Business Goals | Man Vs. Debt
• 5 Tips for Making Extra Money | PT Money
• Carnival of Personal Finance: Support Haiti Edition | Million Dollar Journey

American Money Matters

• New Law Makes it Harder for Teens to Get a Credit Card Starting February 22 | Gen X Finance
• Get Organized For Filing Your Taxes | Bible Money Matters
• Best Tax Software for Your 2009 Return | Money Smart Life
• Best 2010 Dividend Stock Picks | Intelligent Speculator
• How Does The CARD Act of 2009 Affect Credit Card Holders? | Free From Broke
• 2010 Roth IRA Conversion, Important Things to Know | Moolanomy
• How to File Your Annual Tax Returns Online | Dough Roller
• How to Break Free from Your Escrow Account | My Dollar Plan
• Survival Skills To Barter | Money Energy

Canadian Money Matters

• New Blog Alert! Couch Potato Investing Basics Part 1 | Canadian Couch Potato
• A unanimous vote for index investing | Wealthy Boomer
• Should You Close Your Credit Card Account? | Gail Vaz-Oxlade
• How to cut your car insurance costs | Chaya Cooperberg
• Book Review: Winning the Loser’s Game | Canadian Capitalist

Got a request?

Do you have a frugal, financial, or fun post/question/thingy request you’d like me to write about? I get considerable questions on investing topics, frugal wedding ideas, and some farming things. I’m wondering if there’s something YOU would like to read on Squawkfox? I can’t promise to write about everything — I like to stick with topics that are sexy, delicious, and fun — so if you’ve got a request within this theme then feel free to shoot it my way. I’m not out of ideas (my head is packed full) but I’d like to hear your thoughts too.

Over the next few weeks I’ll be adding some book reviews to the mix and finally finishing off my How To Write A Cover Letter Series. No, I haven’t forgotten. Hope you guys liked the video!

Cheers,
Kerry

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

If you’re in the market for a shiny new gym membership, it may be wise to read the fine print and know your rights before agreeing to a fitness club contract. No one wants to be stuck paying for a membership they can no longer use, for whatever reason.

But if you’re revved and ready to burn a few calories, here are ten ways to get fitter while saving some cash on a fitness club or gym membership. Yay, fitness tips!

1. Scrutinize Promotions

Most gyms and fitness centers start the New Year with various promotional deals to entice new members to join. Get in the game by touring around town to find the best fitness deal for your dollars. Make a list and compare membership fees, contract lengths, termination terms, locker fees, facility offerings, class types, hours of operation, equipment types, and peak hours. If all things are equal, don’t be afraid to flex some muscle and negotiate a better rate by playing one gym’s promotional offer off another. Some gyms may have some wiggle room and will give you a discounted or promotional rate.

2. Weigh in with HR

Break free from your cubicle and head to your human resources department for information on corporate fitness passes. Chances are your employer has a group or discounted membership at a local gym. These days many companies are on-side when it comes to battling the bulge and want employees to get fit and live a healthier lifestyle. So it could be well worth your time to ask your company if you qualify for a fitness discount. Just be sure to skip the elevator and take the stairs when you visit HR. Smile.

3. Go Back to School

Ok, don’t sign up for a second (or third) degree just to score a free gym pass. Silly! If you’re a graduate from a local university or college, you could go to the head of the class and land an alumni discount. Head to your Alma Mater with your alumni card in hand and get some fitness for less. Now that’s smart thinking!

4. Get Physical with Non-Commitment Passes

Ask your preferred fitness facility or gym if they offer non-members no-commitment passes. To get you hooked on fitness many gyms offer special passes to let non-members visit on a trial basis for a few days or a week. Give these passes a go and try out the club and facilities before signing for a membership. You’ll find out fast if the club’s locations, programs, and hours of operation work for you.

5. Ask for Your Discount

Does your gym offer a family, student, or seniors discount? Many gyms want your business and will give you a discount if you qualify. Before signing the contract, be sure to bring your student card or driver’s license to prove your age or student status. Being studious, over 65-years-old, or a member of a family could carry a fitness benefit in the shape of big savings.

6. Find a Fitness Friend

If you’ve got a fitness fiend of a friend then ask to join them for a workout. Many gyms and fitness centers offer their members guest passes to entice friends to join. If you’ve got a friend with membership benefits at your gym of choice, ask for a guest pass to try before you buy.

7. Get a “Specialty” Membership

It makes little sense to pay for a pool pass if you only want to use the weight room. So ask for a specialty membership to restrict your use (and user fees) to only the activities you want. Many gyms offer “add-on” fitness fees for squash courts, weight rooms, hot tubs, classes, and pool.

8. Go Off-Peak

If you work flexible hours, then you could avoid the gym lunch rush by opting for an “off-peak” membership pass. Many popular gyms offer a less expensive membership option if you’re willing to sweat it out during the daytime or on weekends.

9. Check Out Your Community Recreation Center

Consider skipping boutique and fancy fitness memberships altogether by choosing to work out at your local community center. Many community centers offer affordable monthly and drop-in rates, making it cost-effective to choose only the classes you want without all the extra initiation or towel fees. Depending on where you live, your YMCA/YWCA may also offer affordable membership rates to help you keep costs down.

10. It’s Fun to Volunteer at the YMCA!

I’ve never tried this, but a few of my friends earned a free YMCA fitness pass by volunteering their time at the YMCA/YWCA. Spending a few hours a week giving facility tours could land you an all-access fitness pass without tapping your wallet. Besides, if you’re going to spend time working out, adding an extra hour to your gym visit is not an impossible task to accomplish.

If spending even a dime for a gym membership blows your budget, then check out these 10 Frugal Ways to get Fit this Winter and even 10 Free Ways to get into Fitness this Summer. My free Printable Workout Log has also been insanely popular this week.

Your Two Cents: Got a frugal way to cut the costs of a gym membership? Ever get caught by surprise fitness club fees?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

It’s no secret that losing weight and getting fit takes effort, and it’s easy to succumb to those flashy advertisements promising you’ll drop those pounds fast just by dropping a few bucks on some product. Don’t believe the hype.

There are endless ways to get fit in the colder winter months without spending a small fortune. Chaya Cooperberg, from the fabulous Home Cents Blog, explores numerous frugal fitness methods in Getting fit on a budget.

If you’re looking for a free download, then burn some winter weight (smirk) by downloading my free eBook The Insider’s Guide To Frugal Food & Fitness! and then grab a copy of the Free Printable Workout Log. If you live in a warmer climate, then a winterized workout isn’t going to get you snow — so check out these 10 Free Ways to get into Fitness this Summer

Now lets get on with some fun ways to get frugally fit by embracing winter! No gym memberships or wallets required!

1. Go Snowshoeing

Go ahead and grab that set of snowshoes from your basement (or borrow them from a neighbor) and go for a stroll in the snow. Snowshoeing is a butt-busting workout that requires strength, agility, balance, and stamina to make it from Point A to Point B. Besides, walking in snow is hard work. I’m breaking into a sweat just thinking about.

Yes, you may fall on your arse. Yes, your dog may look at you funny.

But getting back on your feet and experiencing nature is most certainly a lot more fun than hitting that stair climber at the gym.

If you’re stuck for a pair of snowshoes, then check out your local outdoors shop for an inexpensive rental. Some stores may sell you last year’s model for cheap if you end up loving that levitating on the snow feeling.

2. Build a Snowman

Roll with it and build a snowman, a snow-woman, or a snow-gender-neutral-person in your yard. Smile. Making snow-people is a super fun activity for families so bundle up your bunch and get outside. Don’t forget to garnish Mr. Frosty with a corncob pipe, a button nose, and two eyes made out of coal.

Photo: flickr/lululemonathletica CC-Attribution

OK, what the heck is a corncob pipe? I swear, I spent my youth singing that dang Frosty the Snowman song and I’ve NEVER, ever, decorated my snow-people with corncob pipes. Have you? Anyantismokingblogger, if you’ve got some really nice deep fluffy snow then try building a snow fort, a snow sculpture, or even an igloo for giggles.

3. Play Pickup Hockey

Grab a group of guys (or gals) and head outdoors for a game of hockey. A game of pickup hockey is a great way to chill with friends while getting exercise. Being a Canadian, in Canada, where hockey is a Canuck rite of passage, I’ve found games played on the street, in backyards, and on local outdoor rinks. This game can literally be played anywhere, at anytime, without a lot of equipment. Sure, you’ll need a stick, perhaps a puck or a ball, a pair of boots or skates, and some face protection for the goalie. You don’t need nets though — just grab a couple of garbage cans to mark the goal. Yes, we Canadians can rig a hockey rink out of anything, I suppose.

4. Walk the Dog, Go for a Hike

If your dog is fat, it’s probably because you need more exercise — so take your mutt outside for a brisk winter walk or a hike. Walking is an ideal, frugal form of exercise since it requires zero sports equipment or athletic skill. And getting in a few paces everyday can add up to a lot of calories burned over the week.

If you’re looking for a step in the right direction then check out this free 12 Week Beginner Walking Program. Now step to it!

5. Throw a Snowball Fight

Did a fresh snowfall just snow you in for the afternoon? Then get your family and friends outside for a group snowball fight. Nothing gets the heart rate racing like being chased by a group of snow wielding people looking to get ya good! There’s nothing wrong with being hit by a soft fluffy flier, but if the snow is hard-packing, then maybe just build a snowman instead.

6. Go Skiing

Get bound in a set of bindings and head for the hills for some classic cross-country skiing, skate skiing, or even down-hill skiing. The cost of each of these options depends on how much equipment you already own.

Photo: flickr/eivinds CC-Attribution

So if you’ve got the gear, then don’t let it go to waste in your garage. Get out and point those skis in the right direction and get fit. If you’re ski gearless (like me), then frugal options can be borrowed, rented, or bought used. Joining a local club is an excellent way to find used gear for less since many members will have upgraded over the years.

7. Slide on a Sled, Tumble on a Toboggan!

You don’t need to be kid to play in the snow. Sliding on a sled or tumbling on a toboggan can offer miles of inexpensive fitness fun on nearby snowy slopes.

Sure, sliding down the hill is the easy part, but climbing UP is what gets you fit.

Over the years I’ve managed to slide on wooden sleds, plastic toboggans, magic carpets, and flexible flyer sleds. In university, when I was young and stupid, I even managed to fly down a wicked hill on a cafeteria tray (sorry, no photos of my silliness). But yeah, if you can find a flat surface, I bet you can make it slide on the right slope.

And kids like to slide too, so bring them along.

8. Dig Yourself Out

If you’ve got a driveway or sidewalk covered with snow, then be nice and clear your ice. Shoveling yourself out of the deep is hard physical work, so if you’re not used to heavy lifting then be easy on yourself and take your time.

When the snow is too dense to dig, then get your family and neighbors to help. Many hands make light work.

9. Ice Skating

There’s nothing like gliding on a pair of skates, feeling the breeze blow in your hair, and then falling flat on your a$$. Been there, done that, and loved every minute of it.

I learned the fine art of ice skating (cough) when I lived in Ottawa, Canada’s Capital. Ottawa is home to the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink. I couldn’t have called myself a local without spending hours skating downtown, gliding to school, or stopping by the sidelines for a tasty BeaverTail — U.S. President Barack Obama approved!

But you don’t need a big canal to skate — your local rink may be perfect or an outdoor sheet of ice may be just around the slippery corner.

10. Join a Polar Bear “Swim” Club

There’s a crazy bunch of people who like to dip their dumplings in freezing lakes and waterways. Yes, these people are nuts. Yes, the gentlemen may no longer have nuts. But crazies aside, it’s kind of refreshing to take a dip in freezing waters. I’ve done it once. I’ll never do it again.

Photo: Diana Hodge McGregor

But swimming in frigid waters is a fun way to meet people and get fitter by trying to stay warm. Maybe.

So if you’re feeling the pinch in your jeans and you’re looking for a real way to get winter fit, then brave the cold and get outside with these frugal fitness ways. If you’d rather stay inside, then those Wii fitness games look like fun too.

UPDATE: Everyone keeps asking me about my dog’s booties. They are called Muttluks and have lasted us several seasons on the farm. Here’s a video of the booties in action!

If your pet is suffering with dry cracked paws, a good dollop of Bag Balm on the foot pads and in between the toes is super frugal, healing, and helpful too.

Your Two Cents: Got a fun and frugal way to bust the bulge and get winter fit?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Over the last two years this blog has grown beyond the bounds of my imagination with millions of visitors, over ten thousand subscribers, and too many comments to count. Thank you for spending your valuable time here. It would have been pretty darn lonely squawking by myself, without you. In these two short years I’ve met many amazing readers, received many heart-warming emails, and have enjoyed my travels across the blogosphere with many amazing bloggers.

To celebrate Squawkfox’s two-year blog anniversary (Blogiversary) I’ve rounded up the posts you liked best. Based on visits, comments, Twitters, and emails received, here are your Top Squawks from 2009!

1. 6 Words That Make Your Resume Suck

You wanted to know why your resume sucked, so I told you. I needed to say something about crappy resumes after spending weeks trying to fill a few open positions at my place of employment. The prospects applying to the jobs were talented, but their resumes really stunk. So I downed a glass (or two) of vino and squawked out this snarky post.

Within the span of 24 hours, 6 Words That Make Your Resume Suck hit the front pages of Digg, Delicious Popular, and Lifehacker. The traffic was so intense that my blog host died and took hundreds of other blogs down with it. If your blog was hosted on my server, I’m sorry for the catastrophic failure. Smile.

I’ll never fully understand why this post resonated with almost a million readers this year, but it did. I guess the moral of the story is — don’t drink and blog.

• 6 Words That Make Your Resume Suck

2. The Best Things in Life are Free

I introduced you to my friend Simon and shared a short story about a very long bike ride. The story is only 320 words. The bike ride was 112 miles. This is my favorite post and I’m humbled that you loved it.

• The Best Things in Life are Free

This is an actual photo of Simon and me. Many people ask. Now you know.

3. 6 Action Words That Make Your Resume Rock

I guess 2009 was the year to put some polish on your resume because you all wanted your resumes to rock. This post hit the front pages of Digg and Delicious. I had to move to a new server and pay the big bucks to prevent another catastrophic blog failure.

• 6 Action Words That Make Your Resume Rock

4. 5 Ways To Screw Your Credit Card Company

Credit card companies can be sneaky sneakers, and it’s not hard to fall prey to the power of plastic. You showed them by sharing your legal ways to stick it to them!

• 5 Ways To Screw Your Credit Card Company

5. My name is not really Squawkfox

You wanted to know my real name, so I told you. Thousands of people “Googled” my name the day this post went live. I guess you were looking for some good digital dirt? Snicker. Or maybe this post was so popular because I shared the secret to getting laid? Silly, I know.

• My name is not really Squawkfox

6. Free Printable Workout Log

You wanted to get fit and not spend a bundle at the gym, so I shared my workout log with you. This little exercise tracker helped me train for and complete two Ironman Triathlons. This post also hit the front page of Lifehacker.

• Free Printable Workout Log

7. How to Buy a Slow Cooker or Crock Pot

You love your slow cookers, and I had fun sharing my thoughts on the humble crock. The slow cooker is a fabulous way to stay frugal and feed a family for less. Yum.

• How to Buy a Slow Cooker or Crock Pot

8. The Killer Credit Card Calculator

You wanted to reduce your credit card debt faster. I don’t blame you. Paying more than the minimum balance is key to killing that plastic debt and this Credit Card Calculator is just the tool to prove it. Warning, results may shock you!

• Credit Card Calculator

9. 3 Costly Life Insurance Policies to Avoid

I landed a gig writing for the MSN Sympatico Your Money Blog this year and managed to ruffle a few financial feathers with this post on life insurance. It seems that Insurance Agents, Brokers, and other Policy Peddlers got miffed when I shared the secrets to buying better life insurance policies for FAR less money. Go figure.

Well, I received LOTS of email from angry agents. One in particular shared his rant, and then apologized for his poor punctuation and spelling because his assistant was on vacation. So, if you don’t want your hard-earned policy premiums being spent on vacations for assistants and for agents to gripe at bloggers then give this post a read. You might just get more coverage for less cash.

• 3 Costly Life Insurance Policies to Avoid

10. 14 Things to Do Before and After a Car Accident

I nearly lost my head (and husband) this year when a set of flying wheels flew off a truck and struck our car. Our car was totaled and I spent weeks having nightmares about eating an airbag. Not tasty. The outpouring of email from you guys was amazing, and I thank you for sharing your personal stories of similar experiences. Who knew flying wheels were so common.

• 14 Things to Do Before and After a Car Accident

11. 4 Swiffer Cleaning Hacks for Cheaper Dust-Free Living

I felt a little bit silly showing you my Swiffer hack, but you liked this simple way to save money on refills while doing something good for the environment. PLUS: it works great on pet hair.

• 4 Swiffer Cleaning Hacks for Cheaper Dust-Free Living

12. 397 Ways To Save Money

You all must like free s$it, because after introducing my first book,
397 Ways To Save Money, I decided to give away a few signed copies to some savvy readers.

Anytoobad, the contest is long over. But you can still download a free excerpt of my Amazon Canada Top 100 Bestseller. Thank you to everyone who bought, browsed, or borrowed my book from their local library.

• 397 Ways To Save Money

There you have it — one popular post per month of this crazy year. Thank you for reading the blog, following me on Twitter, and chatting with me on Facebook. Let’s see what Squawks I can muster in year three.

Sincerely,
Kerry

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

On behalf of all of us I want to wish you a wonderful Holiday Season and say thank you for frugaliciously squawking with us this year. I hope you’ll be able to spend time with friends and loved ones over the holidays, and may your New Year be filled with all frugal things that are sexy, delicious, and fun.

You can find me on Twitter as @squawkfox over the holidays! Don’t be shy, say hello!

Sincerely,
Kerry

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

The problem is, how the heck do you wrap a CD when it doesn’t have a jewel case? Gaw! This is where readers like Sarah S. come in handy. Sarah emailed the other day ALSO looking for a way to wrap those shiny discs. Since we both have the same issue, I thought I’d get a little crafty with a free way to Make Your Own CD Covers.

 
Here’s how to make your own CD cover:

1. Go ahead and download the Printable CD Cover Template, and then print it out. Make sure your printer isn’t scaling the template smaller — a CD should fit into the inner square!

2. Use a pen or pencil to trace the template onto heavy card stock. Thicker paper is easier to handle and keeps the CD safe.

3. Use your scissors to cut the pattern out along the solid lines.

4. Fold the corners along the dashed lines. You may need to score the paper with a knife or scissors if you’re using very heavy stock.

5. Place your disc in the center and fold the CD cover closed.

6. Seal your CD cover closed with a holiday sticker or bow. Make your CD an ornament by using a needle and thread to add a tree hanger.

If you’ve got your CDs covered, then maybe you just need a gift tag for those last minute presents under the tree? Check out these free 6 Printable Gift Tags, (including these super cute printable gift tags from Santa!)

Many thanks to Sarah S. for suggesting this frugal fix for a common CD problem!

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Since I’m big fan of financial literacy and have always LOVED the gift of knowledge, perhaps consider giving the gift of financial literacy to those on your list this year. Yes, that Twilight saga series is a lot of fun — but learning how to manage money is an essential lifelong skill, whether you’re an ancient vampire or a young human.

I’ve had a few readers ask for my favorite financial resources for kids, newbie investors, and financially-minded folks — so I’ve compiled this list of some of the best personal finance books around!

Personal Finance Books for Everyone

Maybe you need some gifts for him, gifts for her, gifts for dad, or gifts for mom. Whoever is on Santa’s List this year, there is something here for everyone.

General Money Matters

1. Personal Finance For Dummies | by Eric Tyson

   Sound and practical advice for those who want to get control over their personal financial lives.

2. The Millionaire Next Door | by Thomas J. Stanley

   Follow these seven simple rules and become the next “millionaire next door.”

3. The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness | by Dave Ramsey

   The very popular Dave Ramsey offers a comprehensive plan to get out of debt and achieve financial fitness.

4. Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything | by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner

   The authors make economics fun, especially in the chapter: Why Drug Dealers Live With Their Mothers.

5. The Complete Tightwad Gazette | by Amy Dacyczyn

   For the frugalist on your list. Lots of fun tips!

6. One Year to an Organized Life: From Your Closets to Your Finances | by Regina Leeds

   The organized way to get organized: a week-by-week plan to forever streamline all aspects of your life, including your finances.

Books about Investing

1. The Four Pillars of Investing: Lessons for Building a Winning Portfolio | by William J. Bernstein

   Gives investors the tools to build top-returning portfolios­­ without the help of a financial adviser.

2. The Bogleheads’ Guide to Investing | by Taylor Larimore, Mel Lindauer, Michael LeBoeuf

   One of my personal favorites — the authors take beginners and advanced readers alike through the paces of investing.

3. The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing (Revised Edition) | by Benjamin Graham, Jason Zweig, Warren E. Buffett

   A classic investment book. With Warren E. Buffett credited as an author it’s hard to go wrong here.

Money Books for Kids, Teens, and Young Adults

Got a kiddo on your list? Perhaps a teen needing some financial direction in life? Or how about someone in their 20s or 30s?

Gifts for Kids

1. Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday (ages 4-8) | by Judith Viorst

   Want to laugh at your own mistakes while teaching your kids about saving and spending? Then meet Alexander!

2. Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids (grades 4-8) | by Gail Karlitz

   Clear explanation of the theory behind investing and compound interest, for kids!

3. A Smart Girl’s Guide to Money: How to Make It, Save It, And Spend It (ages 9-12) | by Nancy Holyoke

   From the American Girl’s A Smart Girl’s Guide series, this smart read offers advice on earning, saving, and spending money. Topics such as feelings about money, launching a business, becoming a smart shopper, and investing are also covered.

Gifts for Teens

1. The Motley Fool Investment Guide for Teens: 8 Steps to Having More Money Than Your Parents Ever Dreamed Of | by David Gardner, Tom Gardner, and Selena Maranjian

   From the publishers: “The editors of the Motley Fool website offer sound advice on everything from finding a job, investing in the stock market and avoiding financial pitfalls.” Ages 12-up.

Gifts for Young Adults

1. Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance In Your Twenties and Thirties | by Beth Kobliner

   This updated version can help youngish adults in their 20’s and 30’s get a grip on their finances.

2. The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous & Broke | by Suze Orman

   Media personality Suze Orman has written a lot of books. This one is aimed at “Generation Broke” — those in their 20s and 30s looking to break free from student debt, credit card bills, and then find the path to investing in Roth IRAs and 401(k)s.

Books by Personal Finance Bloggers

Who hasn’t stumbled upon a fab personal finance blog in the last while? Smile. If you love money blogs, then maybe someone on your holiday gift list will love a tome by these big bloggers.

1. 10,001 Ways to Live Large on a Small Budget | by The Writers of Wise Bread

   The bloggers at the personal finance blog Wise Bread offer thousands of ways to spend less while still enjoying life! Plus, they’re really really super nice people.

2. The 4-Hour Workweek Expanded and Updated | by Timothy Ferriss

   Want to escape the 9-5 rat race? Looking to live anywhere? Take a peek at this massive bestseller to get a grip on Timothy Ferriss’s “lifestyle design” principles — or read his blog, The Four Hour Workweek.

3. I Will Teach You To Be Rich | by Ramit Sethi

   A 6-week personal finance program for 20-to-35-year-olds written by Ramit Sethi, the blogger behind I Will Teach You To Be Rich.

Ok, Ok I wrote a book this year tooo and since I have a blog, here’s my contribution: 397 Ways to Save Money!

Money Books for Canadians

If you’re living above the 49th parallel then you probably don’t care too much for Roth IRAs and 401(k)s. So if RRSPs, RESPs, and TFSAs are where you store your toonies, then you may go loonie for my favOURite Canadian personal finance authors!

1. The Wealthy Barber: The Common Sense Guide to Successful Financial Planning | by David Chilton

   Chilton’s common-sense approach to investing and money management is timeless — and with over 1.5 million copies sold, The Wealthy Barber is the best-selling book ever of any kind in Canada.

2. Debt Free Forever | by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

   Gail Vaz-Oxlade, host of Slice Network’s Til Debt Do Us Part and financial guru, has just published Debt-Free Forever. I’m told that it’s filled with Gail’s brand of sensible but hard-hitting advice that everyone can use. I can’t wait to review Gail’s book in the new year.

3. How to Pay Less and Save More For Yourself | by Rob Carrick

   As the personal finance columnist for The Globe and Mail, Rob Carrick is one of Canada’s most trusted and widely read financial experts. I loved his book and will be reviewing it in the new year.

4. Personal Finance For Canadians For Dummies | by Eric Tyson, Tony Martin

   Sound and practical advice for those Canadians who want to get control over their personal financial lives. A must read.

5. Findependence Day | by Jonathan Chevreau (also available here)

   Jonathan Chevreau is one busy fellow. He’s a financial columnist at the National Post, the blogger behind The Wealthy Boomer, and author of the fabulous Findependence Day. From the book: “Findependence Day chronicles a young debt-ridden couple’s long journey to financial independence. After being humiliated about their credit card debts on a national TV show, Jamie Morelli vows his personal Financial Independence Day will be the day he turns 50.” I can’t wait to review Chevreau’s book in the new year.

6. 397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less | by Kerry K. Taylor (that’s me!)

   I’m really just a little guy when compared to these BIG Canadian authors! But my first book has been on the Amazon Canada Top 100 Bestseller’s List a few times. Not bad for a newbie! It’s a fun read for anyone looking to save some cash. Promise.

Money and Giving

Sometimes the best books about money are those about giving of yourself.

• Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace – One School at a Time | by Greg Mortenson

  A stunning read. One person can really make a difference.

Your Two Cents: Got a favorite financial read I missed on this list?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor