So, the big day has finally arrived, my oldest son and stepdaughter are graduating from high school.  Money, money and more money, this is what you have to look forward to senior year.  I was not aware of the outrageous cost that we would be incurring this year.  Senior

pictures, cap and gown pictures, yearbook picture page,  graduation announcements, senior breakfast, grad night party, family and friends celebration party, not to mention prom, homecoming and winter formal, these are just a few things that we have had to pay for this year.  I feel as though we are planning a wedding.  Don't get me wrong, I am proud and excited, but I feel that I was not prepared for the financial burden that it would create. 

I would like to prepare all of you up and coming parents, so you will not be blind sided by the immense expense of graduating high school.  My advice would be to set aside a separate account when your children enter high school.  This will help to alleviate the stress and financial burden on your family.  Graduation should be a time of joy and celebration, without the worry of money.  Plan ahead and be aware, graduating from high school is not cheap!