financial matters

While children and fathers are scrambling to paint a piece of pottery and buy the right card before Mother's Day arrives this weekend, drop them one of these economical hints. Instead of treating you to a swanky spa day, tell them the lady of the house would appreciate a festivity that doesn't involve breaking the bank. Or pamper your own mother with one of these activities:

• Picked flowers only last so long. Forgo a trip to the florist and take mom to the botanical gardens where the entire family can enjoy the brilliant blossoms.
• Rather than taking mom out to the movies, rent her favorite classic flick and stock up on her candy cravings. When the kids are sent to bed, she can relax in pure peace and pleasure.
• Who needs a five-star hotel when camping is an option? Pack up the tent, campfire tools and a satchel for a night in the wilderness. Spoil her with s'mores and hot chocolate while soaking up all that nature has to offer.

To see other ways to celebrate mum, read more

If you want to spark a debate, just gab about America's health and child care systems. While many countries offer new mothers a year of maternity leave, most American women get three months maximum. And in regard to financial benefits, there are few. The child tax credit offers parents a small relief, but for most, it is negligible. In France, however, it's a different story.

Even two of the world's most famous and wealthy movie stars, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, are eligible for relief from the French government. While I can only assume they would reject it, People reports:

They are technically eligible for a "nanny payment" of $975.84 a month, not to mention an "orphan allowance" of $508.97 for each of their three adopted children. The grand total, $2,592.81, would be payable by check each month.

The total of their child care assistance is high due to the number of children they have, but I am still impressed that people of their stature would qualify for such aid. In addition to noshing on baguettes, wine, and cheese, France sounds like such a nice place to raise a family.
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