Sorry for the delayed response, as i missed seeing this thread....

First, relating to Whole Life Insurance, I think for the most part this should be something you might stay away from..

A good total return balanced fund for the future:

Other than funds like Dodbx, Laalx, Prwcx, Vwelx, Oakbx or Fpacx, I'd strongly consider either a good Worldwide Total Return Balanced Fund alternative like Mdlox, Eaafx or:

Here is also something brand new and maybe worth watching. http://www.invescopowershares.com/products/overview.aspx?ticker=pca It's actual ER (with it's underlying funds) is around .70%. It is composed of 'proprietary indexes'...

For myself I'll stick to Worldwide Equity Income Hybrids like Caibx and Tibix as I'm older and my present and future needs are different.....

A great One Fund for a 'child' (with a reasonable minimum). 'Fairholme Fund' (Fairx)

Here are some other ideas. http://www.thestreet.com/story/10366414/1/three-elements-for-a-benchmark-portfolio.htm Ooops, just tried the link and it does not open the article. Open the link and then type in Tibax in the Search Box. Then, click on the article by 'Vern Hayden' ('Three Elements For A Benchmark Portfolio')

Best to you.......

t