I'm actually listening to the Wall Street Journal report

Nothing like having kids to suddenly focus your attention on money. I admit - before I had children I liked money as much as the next person - I just never paid it much attention. If I had it, I spent it.

Now, I am trying to learn about investing. I'm listening to the Wall Street Journal report, something I used to use to run down the hall to get a Diet Coke or go to the bathroom. I listen now. I don't always understand what I'm hearing, but I listen.

I am trying to understand the housing market and it's effect on my 401(k), whether or not I should try to open a Roth IRA like Suze Orman preaches, whether I should save for my kids in a 529 plan before my own retirement is fully funded. Much of what I read and hear feels like overhearing someone speaking Spanish in the grocery store - I understand every 10th word or so.

But there is reason to keep listening. As I hear phrases and concepts repeated, it's starting to sink in. Repetition is the key to learning - isn't that what they say? So my hope is that as I listen, something will stick despite my reluctance.

Shameless plug - shameless plug - you can listen with me every morning at :25 and :55 past the hour, and I'll share with you anything extra I learn as well.

Just one last question - can anybody tell me why sites like Scottrade and etrade have to look so complicated??