Random Musings of a Curious Mind

Now That's What I Call A Bonus!

I've worked for some good companies over the years. Some were fun and some were generous. None were as generous as this Illinois company.

In the midst of the stories about Wall Street and corporate greed, it was heart-warming to read about Peer Bearing Company's support of their employees. They are not the first company to pay year-end bonuses. But, I'm pretty sure, that no non-executives are lucky enough to get a check like these people did.

We used to call it profit-sharing, when I worked for a computer leasing company. But I can assure you - no organization I know has ever taken the term quite so literally.

Mr. and Mrs. Spungen - God Bless You!


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Jules

We're (Sorta) Baaaack!

True to their word, our wireless provider got my phone back up within 24 hours. I was pleasantly surprised - for about 20 minutes. Then, I got angry.

For years, we have had unlimited access (through what they call T-Zones) to online information. If our phones could support the set-up, we could get to it. Once I cancelled and reinstated my phone, we could no longer get thtis access.

Don't believe the T-Mobile commercials! Ever since Deutsche Telecom came in - value went out the window.


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Jules

Veterinary Emergency Fund Mission

As a pet owner, okay as a person owned by a pet, I live in fear that my baby will have an emergency that I cannot afford. (Given that I can only occasionally afford food, this is a pretty safe assumption.)

Veterinary Emergency Funding Mission

If your pet had an emergency, would you be able to pay for it? Veterinary emergency care can be very costly and most emergency hospitals require payment up front. Lack of sufficient funds can leave an owner faced with euthanasia for a beloved companion. The Veterinary Emergency Funding Mission (VEFM) helps locate these funds.

A 'friend' of mine, with years of veterinary experience, understands the fear that many of us face. In 2004, our cat 'Bear' developed a bowel blockage that eventually, painfully, killed him. If we had been able to have him fixed, we would have reduced the probability that he would develop this condition.

If you need help - or if you can help - please visit VEFM.org.



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Jules

GoDaddy.com

If you've been following this blog, you know that I recently changed webhosts. There was a brief adjustment period where I had to learn how to make my forms and pages work with the new host. I'm still learning - or should I say, unlearning.

But, minor disconnects notwithstanding, I am much happier with GoDaddy.com than I was with my previous host. For a number of reasons:

I don't have to use a stand-alone FTP program to manage my files and folders. GoDaddy provides a good one with my account. And, unlike many other programs, I can move files from Folder A on my hard drive to Folder B on my website, without having to change global settings. Most of the time, I need to upload/download to the same folder name. But when I want to move the files within non-matching folders, I can - easily.

GoDaddy allows me to specify which folders are visible and accessible on the Internet. If someone goes looking at my directories, they can only see what I want them to see. There's even an option to password protect those directories, for further security against outside changes. Gotta love that!

My account email options are huge! I can have a slew of domain-related email addresses and specify how messages are routed. For example, if someone sends an email to customer_service@jmarkafghans.com, which doesn't actually exist, I can have the email routed to customerservice@jmarkafghans.com and send an automated response to the sender that alerts them to the correct address. Once it's set up, I don't have to bother with it again.

Another goodie that I just love - Google Webmaster Tools are included. Now, I don't have to use separate software and login to generate sitemaps and update Google on my site content. I'm lazy - this is great!

Probably the best thing about my new webhost is the price and flexible payment options. With my previous host, I couldn't pay early; I couldn't pay for 2 or more months at a time, if I wanted to; and I payed more per month for the inconvenience.

GoDaddy.com has a variety of packages for individuals and businesses, at highly competitive rates. And - right now - you can even save $5.00 !


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Jules

Another Laptop?

Would someone please tell me if it's possible to be a laptop jinx? Because I'm having trouble with this - my 3rd laptop in 4 years. It's beginning to hurt my feelings!

It's not that they were particularly inexpensive or odd-brands. The first (purchased new) was a Compaq model which, we found out later, had a habit of overheating. No kidding! It got so warm that it actually melted the AC connection.

The second laptop, also purchased new, was an Acer with a decent (we were told) reputation for reliability. In self-defense, we bought a cooling pad. But this computer had a habit of crashing the hard drive - and it was never recoverable. After mailing it back for replacements - twice - the monitor failed. (Granted, the laptop got bounced off the bed. So, I'm pretty sure that we contributed to the monitor problem.)

Now, I am being tormented by a refurbished Dell. This puppy has had some minor problems since it walked in the door - the AC adapter connection is loose and the battery doesn't charge. The battery isn't a huge issue, since I rarely move the laptop from where I sit, but if the power goes out - not so good.

However, the loose AC adapter has become a serious pain in the neck. I use the laptop as a true laptop 95% of the time. This means that, with a loose power connection, if I sneeze or wiggle or move wrong - the laptop unplugs! No biggy when I'm playing a game. But, 500 words into a 600 word article or 2 sentences from the end of a blog post . . .

Let's just say I've developed a keen ability to make up curse words when the need arises.



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Jules

Wilmington Real Estate

The housing / mortgage crunch notwithstanding, I can't help house-hunting. Some day we will be moving and it's important to know what's available and where and at what price.

With the kids gone, we have the luxury of looking everywhere and anywhere. Today, I found an interesting site for Wilmington NC real estate. I really liked some of the options.

For example, there is a small community north of Wilmington. The zip code only has about 4,000 people. Just what we've been looking for. And the housing prices are pretty nice, too.

For $112,000, we could get a 1,700+ square feet, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom on 1.2 acres. Now that's affordable!

Granted, we'd have to be closer to a VA hospital and the climate would be seriously hard on Mark's lungs. But I have to admit, it's a good start to the hunt.



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Jules

Housing Market Has to Mend?

Okay - this is a real 'Duh!?' moment. I was reading the AP article about how, for the bailout to work, the housing market has to mend. Maybe I don't get it. (Wouldn't be the first time.)

There's $700 billion (big B) designated to pull Wall Street's head out of its ahem and it may be next year - or later - before the bucks start to flow? Wrong Answer people! Let's get that money where it needs to be - and do it now!

Now, at the risk of shining a light on my lack of understanding, this is what I see: We know which lenders and financial institutions habitually took advantage of consumers, right? These consumers were talked into more house or more mortgage than they could afford, right? Well, isn't that where we start?

You see, that is what I have never understood - through this entire housing crisis. When a mortgagee has trouble making payments, few banks will work with them - even in the face of artificially inflated property values. Instead they foreclose, evict a family, and - find any logic here, I dare you - auction off the home for a fraction of the mortgage value, writing off the difference!!

Take some of that pretty bailout money - and rewrite those mortgages. (Someone somewhere is holding the paper from these lenders.) Home values have consistently dropped for months now - so adjust the value of the mortgage to reflect the value of the home. Apply a realistic finance rate - and keep these families in their homes!

Of course, for speculators and 'flippers' this refi does not apply. You tried to make money in an inflated market - if you lost your shirt, you'll just have to play for the skins.



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Jules

The Hunt for Lighting

For those of you who have been following my lighting battle - all I can say is . . . I'm still looking.

You would think that I could find something I like, given all of the online stores. But there are so many things to take into consideration.

The torchieres have to be sturdy - as well as attractive - because Paka-the-speed-demon loves to do laps through the living room. Even though he's feline, he's not all that graceful and has been known to run into / bounce off of the furniture. (Heck, he's even fallen off the shelf in front of the window. But that's a whole 'nother post.)

Oddly enough, it's not the living room lamps that are giving me the most trouble. That distinction goes to the bathroom fixture, over the sink. Either I am incredibly picky or my taste is so horribly outdated that there hasn't been anything I'd like on the market in 25 years.

Either way . . . I'm still looking.



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Jules

Used Cisco Equipment

There are a lot of caveats to buying used computer equipment; especially when you're purchasing over the Internet. It's not like you can drive back to the store and demand satisfaction, if something goes wrong. And, unless you've got a laptop, even that isn't a convenient option.

When it works out-of-the-box, how long will it work? tends to be the next question. Not much point spending hard earned dollars only to have the system crash within the first month - and no remedy for the problem. (Although, some days even the new systems let you down.) And, what about appearance? Does a used system look like it's been beaten and bounced around? Not good, regardless of price.

I recently found a site that sells, among other brands, used Cisco systems. They provide a 90-day warranty and guarantee that the used/refurbished equipment will qualify for a service contract through the manufacturer.

They even extend their refurbishing attention to the appearance - which really impressed me. I don't mind buying used - if it's a reliable unit - but I shouldn't have to put up with a computer or system that looks bad. (My latest laptop has many of the keyboard markings rubbed off, not to mention a good number of dings and scratches on the case.)

It's nice to know that there are sellers with an interest in quality.



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God Bless!

Jules

Moving Services

If you've priced moving services lately, you know that (like everything else) you often get a lot less than you expect - for a lot more money. It's one of the things that keep us from moving. (Well, that and hating to move.) For us, there's just no easy answer.

Being on the 2nd floor, we'd have to haul everything down to a rental van - or any other pack-it-yourself option. Neither of us is in that kind of shape anymore. And, with both of the boys gone, we don't have a free labor source anymore, either. Strike One

Although it would be physically preferable, being on a fixed income with exhorbitant rent, we can't afford a full-service moving company. It's pretty much impossible to get ahead of the bills long enough to put that kind of cash aside. Strike Two

Of course, hitting the lottery for a few million would solve all of our moving problems. Unfortunately, we don't play the lottery. Strike Three

Looks like we're a bit stuck.



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God Bless!

Jules

Auto Insurance

Despite all of the commercials to the contrary, there really isn't that large a difference in insurance premiums. I did an experiment recently, just to see how our rate compares in the marketplace. Wow - is all I can say.

After requesting an auto insurance online quote, I waited. It really didn't take long for the numbers to come in. But none of them were even close to what we pay.

Honestly, I knew that we were getting a good rate - especially with the renter's insurance bundled in the price. Surprisingly, no other company could come even close.

If you're not sure you're getting a good deal, take a few minutes and check out the competition.



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Jules

Pyramid Financial Solutions

The news these days is filled with stories of recession, job loss, and consumer financial problems. We're all feeling the pinch - at the pump, at the grocery store, when the utility bill is due. But what if you're a business owner?

Are your receivables taking a hit in these tough economic times? Does it seem like the monthly payments coming in are getting smaller and smaller? Have you considered debt collection agencies?

Before you place your problem accounts with an agency, make sure that you find a collection service that understands and respects your business - and your relationship with your customers. Companies and consumers frequently experience highs and lows in their cashflow. A slow-pay today could be a shining star next year. If you can't work with those accounts, and maintain relationships, you risk long-term damage to your business and your reputation.

As with everything in life and business, always do your research.



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Jules

Proactiv Acne Cream

As I have mentioned before, I am always looking for a great way to care for my skin and minimize breakouts. But, it's not easy or inexpensive to find exactly what will work on my combination, sensitive, old-lady skin without some help. Luckily, there are places on the Internet that do the hard work for me.

With all of the commercials for Proactiv acne cream, you have to wonder what people who aren't getting paid would say. Apparently, nothing too positive. It seems that this product doesn't work that well, doesn't continue to work over time, doesn't moisturize sufficiently, and doesn't mention the overwhelming smell from all three (3) steps.

Admittedly, the drying problem may mean that it's only good for people with oily skin. I don't know. It's hard to get a real feel for something, after only one review.

Maybe you can help: Have you tried this acne program? Did it work for you? What about the smell? Was there a problem with overly dry skin?

Let me know. I'd love to know what you experienced.



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Jules

Balance Transfer Credit Card

Financially, things are tough all over. And they have been for a while - unless you really are a Rockefeller. We have watched the price of everything go up - everything we used to be able to afford. It's not just frustrating; it's frightening.

If we had credit card debt to deal with, on top of soaring fuel and food prices, we would be in serious trouble. Luckily, we don't use or own credit cards. But there is an option, for those who do have such issues in their financial lives. A balance transfer credit card may be just what they need.

Moving credit card balances from high interest cards to low interest (or even no interest for an introductory period) can give borrowers a chance to stop a downward spiral. There are a number of balance transfer card programs out there. Some offer 0% APR on transferred balances, for a specific time frame Others offer no-fee balance transfers or a fixed-rate APR on transfers.

The perfect choice depends on the amount being transferred and the time it will (realistically) take to pay it off. For example: if you owe $3,600.00 and can pay $300.00 per month, then a 0% APR for 12 months is perfect.

Before things get worse, investigate some of the options available to you. Nothing feels quite as good as paying off a debt.



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God Bless!

Jules

Payday Loans

With the economy in the dumps these days, it doesn't take much to send finances spiralling downward. In our case, it's trying to get the truck fixed. Not an easy job, let me tell you. While we were saving up to fix the head gasket, the battery died.

Have you ever toted a battery to the store? Those puppies are heavy! It would have been nice to have the cash to just have someone come out and take care of everything. That's the problem with once-a-month income.

One option we looked at is Payday Loans. I knew that there were places one could go, but we couldn't get anywhere. I didn't know that they were available online.

Not only can one apply online, a fax machine isn't necessary! I like the idea of a secure application, something you can't be certain of when using a public fax machine. And you can't beat the quick approval time.

My only suggestion - be sure that you can afford to repay the loan. In our case, I have a mid-month check that helps cover any emergencies. So, taking out a payday loan at the beginning of the month - in an emergency - would work for us.

Wish I'd known about this before. Would definitely have saved Mark a backache!



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Jules

Cisco IT Certification

In so many careers, a four-year degree is mandatory for advancement. For years, I held a position that should have had a different title (and paycheck) but I don't have a degree. Not even an Associates.

Recently, I've considered getting back into IT, my original course of study many years ago. Since I don't have a degree, I didn't think that there was much future for me in a new career. Then I read about Cisco certification. Suddenly, not being degreed isn't quite the stopping-block I thought it would be.

For example, they offer a CCENT™ (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) Certification program that ensures professionals have the knowledge and skill to install, operate, and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including basic network security. The level of information and assistance is incredible! From a list of learning topics to quick learning modules, videos, and white papers to practice questions, learning games, and exam tutorial - The Cisco Learning Network has exactly what I need to pursue a new career.

Best of all, for me at least, Cisco publishes a Certification Self-Study series, which assumes no knowledge of the subject matter and offers detailed instruction. Not only are they great books for studying and preparing for the certification exams, I would imagine they would continue to be useful on the job. In the beginning, it's always nice to have a reference source.

It's been a while since I found something I really wanted to explore and learn about. This may just be the program I need.





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God Bless!

Jules

Moving Trucks

A little over four years ago, when Mark was very sick, we were invited to move in with a friend in Washington state. All of us knew that the prognosis wasn't good. Our friend (and Mark) wanted to make certain that I had a place to live and wasn't alone.

In the midst of coordinating hospice care, I was also researching affordable airfare (including our cat Bear) and moving trucks. Suffice it to say, I was not overly pleased with the options I was given by the different moving companies that I contacted.

Since then, I've found that there are some terrific alternatives. Ideally, if you need to save money on a move, you've already decided to pack the majority (if not all) of your possessions. That will only save a bit with most companies. (I know from experience.)

Normally, in a move, it doesn't matter if you're moving across country or across town, everything goes into and out of the truck - immediately.

What if you could have a trailer delivered to your home - on your schedule - with three (3) days to load it up? Then, once you've packed up everything, the trailer is driven to your new home. Within the price, you get three (3) days to unload.

It certainly seems like an ideal way to deal with the hassle of moving.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
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We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

FOX Reviews Zenni Optical

If you were wondering, as I have been, whether the glasses I talked about in an earlier post are really a good deal, I have an answer.

FOX consumer review program Deal or Dud? followed one mother's experience. The video details include the ordering process, issues with the family's optometrist, and the quality of the final product.

As you'll see in the report, ZenniOptical.com did a terrific job with the information that they were given. Both prescriptions were perfect. However, due to a lack of information from the optometrist and a wiggly little boy, there were issues with one pair.

Frankly, I was quite impressed. I've already found my favorite frames. (Okay I've found several favorite frames.) Luckily, I can afford more than one now.

Now, I'm off to get my prescription information.



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God Bless!

Jules

Private Jet Charter

Obviously, my business isn't large enough, nor do I travel enough to warrant a private jet charter. But wouldn't it be incredible!?

Just imagine the convenience of catching a flight when you want and not needing to work around airline schedules. Not only that, but many of these charters include catering and a private flight crew. (So much for a $5.00 bag of peanuts!)

Of course, it's not an incredibly inexpensive way to travel, but it's not as pricey as I imagined. When a company or organization has a number of people who need to be in the same place, at a specific time, it definitely makes a lot of sense.

Personally, I think it's a wonderful idea. Who knows? Maybe I'll even get to try it, someday.



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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
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God Bless!

Jules

Corporate Performance Management

In the world of corporate performance management, there are a lot of companies offering solutions.

For those who are looking for true innovation, do what RTI did and go to PROPHIX. The winner of the 2007 Innovative Solution Award for Corporate Performance Management offers groundbreaking and quantifiable value to their clients. From reporting and budgeting to analysis and forecasting to business process and sales performance management, find the solutions that allow your company to function as a collaborative entity.

With user-friendly services, training, and support, it couldn't be easier to engage your personnel in key business processes.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules