[BCHGRL]

I read an article on CNN Money or MSN this week about how few baby boomers are prepared for retirement.

My mom is the same way, and my dad leaves the finances to her. My downfall is that I was very unfrugal in my early twenties -so when I even suggest budget or try to talk to her, she brings up my days of 200 shoes.

She took out a loan to give me a gift for my wedding in April (and didn't tell my dad who thought they had plenty of money with all the overtime he has been working.) I didn't know about it until after the fact. Even though I am 27, she spends $1K or more on just myself and my husband for Christmas. I've begged her not to do so much, but nothing changes.

I have a business trip to Europe this fall. She wants to accompany me, and her first comment was that she could take out a loan to finance it.

I know she is trying to get better. She no longer visits TJ Maxx every week. I just wish she would have the financial awakening I did at 26. Her 50th birthday is in a few months so maybe it will awaken her to reality - maybe! It would just kill me to see my parents in a desperate financial situation when they enter their golden years.