This past week, I decided to part ways with the MoneyBlogNetwork. It was a completely amicable separation — I just decided that it was time for a change — and I wish them all the best. And with that, it’s time for a quick trip around the personal finance blogosphere…

• Flexo provided firsthand evidence that you should never (ever!) expose short-term money to the stock market. In short, he dumped some cash into a charitable gift fund with the intention of disbursing it later this year. Unfortunately, he put it in a broad market index fund and it’s dropped 20%.
• Jim talked about how to get out of jury duty. I’ve never actually been called for jury duty (knock on wood), but this was an interesting read nonetheless.
• Trent talked about the dangers of rewarding children for normal behavior. Honestly, I think that his point goes far beyond material rewards. Far too often, my wife and I hear parents lavishing praise on their children for doing the most mundane things. While it’s important to be a positive influence in your child’s life, there’s no need to go overboard with congratulations for simply living life.
• Jeremy warned against compounding your investment losses. As I’ve said in the past, it’s important stay the course, and avoid trying to time the market.
• Finally, Ron has some great tips for getting ‘back to basics‘ in the face of our current financial crisis. It’s simple, really… Start living within your means, paying off your debts, and saving for the future.

And with that… I hope you all have a great week!