Book excerpt: So you've got the basics of your personal finances under control (at leas -- you've controlled your credit card spending, purchased a house, started saving for retirement) but wait! Now that your kids are growing up and your career is moving along, you're facing a whole new set of personal finance challenges. College, weddings, your son or daughter's first car! How to manage these big expenses and still stay afloat?! And how to deal with unexpected changes such as downsizing or a move?! Help is here. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Personal Finance in Your 40s and 50s is the guide you need to everything from helping your kids get on their feet to buying a second home. Coverage includes: Assessing your own financial position in mid-life -- pluses and minusBeing a parent and a blank check -- teaching your kids about moneyPaying for cars, college, weddings and other big parent expensesAssessing and affording your second home, dream home, or vacation homeKeeping your finances in order during a job change -- for the better or worseWhat to think about if you want to start your own businessDivorce and personal financeThinking of the future -- wills, in-laws, aging parents and more!The basics of investing -- in your 40s and 50s. Where to start or how to progress