Exhale. Christmas is over for another year. Just get through New Year’s and it’s back to the old grind. Let’s read some personal finance news to tide us over.

Exploring The Climax Scene of Trading Places Popular culture meets sound investment planning. I like it. (@ wisebread)

Make January’s Mortgage Payment Early Good advice, but the guy claims this will save him $1,500 on his tax bill. That’s basically ludicrous unless he lives in a mansion. I think he meant that it will reduce his taxable income by about $1,500. (@ making our way)

How to Save Money on Laundry This is a collection of thoughtful ideas on how to save on a common task. For me, the big savings will occur when I move from this apartment and get my own washer and dryer instead of the community one that eats quarters. (@ binary dollar)