Money & Finance #59: Credit, Money Management, and Saving
I read the article How Credit Scores Work then took the Credit Score Quiz. I had a perfect score on the quiz and did not learn about any new information regarding credit reports and/or scores. I have experience with this information thorough buying a house and cars, all of which are now payed for. I just need to work on some other debt now.
I have made a spending/budget plan. I find the process easy to plan out, but difficult to execute. My difficulty is getting other members of the family to either help plan or execute. I use direct deposit because it is easier to plan when to pay bills, especially when using online banking, as mentioned in the previous post.
What I found to most useful on the TCDRS site to help understand my retirement benefits is the fact that it is so detailed. On this site you can: check your balance, review pay out options, get forms or brochures, follow links to other sources. They allow you to log in to to your personal account. If you want to check your personal account, check you statement for your PIN or call customer service to have it mailed to you.
All this information allows you to better plan for your retirement. I still have about 9 years before I qualify under the "rule of 75", but I plan to work longer than that. If I am unable to work for some reason, they also give available disability information. It is better to know this information in advance and not be suprised when you need to actually use it.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Money & Finance #58: Banking, Budgeting, and Spending
Money & Finance #58: Banking, Budgeting, and Spending
1)My bank does offer online banking and I do use it. It is nice to be able to pay bills online and track deposits & withdrawals. This especially convenient when family members don't remember to tell you about using their debit card. Since I mainly handle the bill paying, although I wouldn't mind someone else doing it, I still opt for paper bills & notices, in case I am unable to access the online banking or a family member needs to pay bills. Security seems to be OK. I use my home network, which is password protected itself, to access my banking. The bank also has security safeguards, so I know that I am at the real banking site. I selected a picture and named it myself as an extra ID feature. I do wish that since access is 24/7 that banking itself was also 7 days, but they don't send out bill payments on the weekends.
2) I've looked at the budgeting tools available. I really like Mint and could possibly see using it, but part of the problem is dealing with other members of the family. If it was just me, it would be much easier. I'm still trying to convince others that some of these tool could benefit them, and in turn, the rest of the family
3) I've read the article, Spend Less on Everything, on ways to cut back on spending. I already incorporate/implement several of these into my financial plan. I use a programmable thermostat, carry a refillable water bottle, wash in cold water as much as possible, and have been using CFLs for years. Being Green can save you money. I also comparison shop, both online and in person. I know where to get my regular "bulk" items and where to get my grocery deals. There are some other things I would like to do, but as I mentioned before, it requires the cooperation of other family members.
1)My bank does offer online banking and I do use it. It is nice to be able to pay bills online and track deposits & withdrawals. This especially convenient when family members don't remember to tell you about using their debit card. Since I mainly handle the bill paying, although I wouldn't mind someone else doing it, I still opt for paper bills & notices, in case I am unable to access the online banking or a family member needs to pay bills. Security seems to be OK. I use my home network, which is password protected itself, to access my banking. The bank also has security safeguards, so I know that I am at the real banking site. I selected a picture and named it myself as an extra ID feature. I do wish that since access is 24/7 that banking itself was also 7 days, but they don't send out bill payments on the weekends.
2) I've looked at the budgeting tools available. I really like Mint and could possibly see using it, but part of the problem is dealing with other members of the family. If it was just me, it would be much easier. I'm still trying to convince others that some of these tool could benefit them, and in turn, the rest of the family
3) I've read the article, Spend Less on Everything, on ways to cut back on spending. I already incorporate/implement several of these into my financial plan. I use a programmable thermostat, carry a refillable water bottle, wash in cold water as much as possible, and have been using CFLs for years. Being Green can save you money. I also comparison shop, both online and in person. I know where to get my regular "bulk" items and where to get my grocery deals. There are some other things I would like to do, but as I mentioned before, it requires the cooperation of other family members.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
A Consumer's How To #44: How To & Make
A Consumer's How To #44: How To & Make
Of the different types of How To sites listed in the blog post above, Instructables is my favorite. I like eHow, WikkiHow, and HowStuffWorks too. There really aren't any how-to that I don't like, because they each have their own appeal. One not listed that I really like is MAKE. It is one that truly encourages the use of your imagination.
I looked at the Instructables site and immediately saw a subject I wanted to learn about: a Paracord bracelet with a side release buckle. I've seen these for sale online and have wondered how they were made. One DIY site had issued a "challenge" a while back to see who would figure it out. If I can remember which one it was, I'll make sure they have this link.
The instructions for this "survival" bracelet are very easy. I was having Girl Scout camping flashbacks about knot making. I don't know if I will be making one anytime soon, but I have a source fro instructions now. Maybe if I happen across some paracord while thrift shopping or freecycling ..... Or I could see what I have on hand...... Maybe a trip to the hardware store.... Hmmmm.....
Of the different types of How To sites listed in the blog post above, Instructables is my favorite. I like eHow, WikkiHow, and HowStuffWorks too. There really aren't any how-to that I don't like, because they each have their own appeal. One not listed that I really like is MAKE. It is one that truly encourages the use of your imagination.
I looked at the Instructables site and immediately saw a subject I wanted to learn about: a Paracord bracelet with a side release buckle. I've seen these for sale online and have wondered how they were made. One DIY site had issued a "challenge" a while back to see who would figure it out. If I can remember which one it was, I'll make sure they have this link.
The instructions for this "survival" bracelet are very easy. I was having Girl Scout camping flashbacks about knot making. I don't know if I will be making one anytime soon, but I have a source fro instructions now. Maybe if I happen across some paracord while thrift shopping or freecycling ..... Or I could see what I have on hand...... Maybe a trip to the hardware store.... Hmmmm.....
Monday, April 6, 2009
A Consumer's How To #43: Buying & Selling Online
A Consumer's How To #43: Buying & Selling Online
Ebay I have used Ebay of several occassions. I use PayPal for payment. There was only one problem, which was quickly resolved. It helped that I documented all attempts of contact with the seller. Ebay is nice for used items, or new, that you can't find locally.
Half.com is good for textbooks. That is what I used it for.
Craigslist is great for local selling and shopping. There are no fees for using this site. I have both bought and sold items on Craigslist. I usually meet people away from the house, but have had people come to my house to buy/pick up and I have gone to others to do the same. Safety can be a factor, so use common sense.
Amazon is my friend. I will admit to Prime membership. I have bought both new and used. Customer service has been quick to help with any problems.
Etsy This is the first I have heard of this site. Not my cup of tea, but I will be telling a few friends.
I use PayPal for several things. Ebay, taxes - yes some can be paid via PayPal, and occasional shopping sites. I like PayPal because of its ease of use. PayPay already has my billing and shipping info and I don't need to type it in again and again. It is convenient for websites that I may want to use for shopping, but don't want to have to set up an account. I have not used it
for selling and accepting payments, but I can see the advantage of using it to do so.
Ebay I have used Ebay of several occassions. I use PayPal for payment. There was only one problem, which was quickly resolved. It helped that I documented all attempts of contact with the seller. Ebay is nice for used items, or new, that you can't find locally.
Half.com is good for textbooks. That is what I used it for.
Craigslist is great for local selling and shopping. There are no fees for using this site. I have both bought and sold items on Craigslist. I usually meet people away from the house, but have had people come to my house to buy/pick up and I have gone to others to do the same. Safety can be a factor, so use common sense.
Amazon is my friend. I will admit to Prime membership. I have bought both new and used. Customer service has been quick to help with any problems.
Etsy This is the first I have heard of this site. Not my cup of tea, but I will be telling a few friends.
I use PayPal for several things. Ebay, taxes - yes some can be paid via PayPal, and occasional shopping sites. I like PayPal because of its ease of use. PayPay already has my billing and shipping info and I don't need to type it in again and again. It is convenient for websites that I may want to use for shopping, but don't want to have to set up an account. I have not used it
for selling and accepting payments, but I can see the advantage of using it to do so.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Potluck #49: L'amore di lingue - Love of Languages
Potluck #49: L'amore di lingue - Love of Languages
OK, I'll admit to taking 2 years of French in High School a couple of decades ago. I didn't take the 3rd year because I was more interested in the Calculus & Drafting courses I was taking. My brain just leans more in that direction.
LiveMocha has some neat tricks to make the language more relevant, more intune with your life. You don't have to use the social connection part, but having real people and not just a program help you is a big bonus. They are there to learn too and really want to help.
Mangolanguages - The flash cards & narrator are OK, but the interaction IS kind of slow. My brain might fall asleep if I didn't pay attention. It is not a bad program, just not for the way my brain is wired.
I've also played with Rosetta Stone, available here - World Languages , if you have an HPL card. Rosetta Stone is kind of like a cross between LiveMocha and Mangolanguages, without so many flash cards or the social interaction part.
Of these three here, I'd probably start back with Rosetta Stone and move on to LiveMocha. That is if I could wrap my brain around it again. I could use some Spanish for work and maybe some Japanese.
Maybe if I think of it in terms of a puzzle......
OK, I'll admit to taking 2 years of French in High School a couple of decades ago. I didn't take the 3rd year because I was more interested in the Calculus & Drafting courses I was taking. My brain just leans more in that direction.
LiveMocha has some neat tricks to make the language more relevant, more intune with your life. You don't have to use the social connection part, but having real people and not just a program help you is a big bonus. They are there to learn too and really want to help.
Mangolanguages - The flash cards & narrator are OK, but the interaction IS kind of slow. My brain might fall asleep if I didn't pay attention. It is not a bad program, just not for the way my brain is wired.
I've also played with Rosetta Stone, available here - World Languages , if you have an HPL card. Rosetta Stone is kind of like a cross between LiveMocha and Mangolanguages, without so many flash cards or the social interaction part.
Of these three here, I'd probably start back with Rosetta Stone and move on to LiveMocha. That is if I could wrap my brain around it again. I could use some Spanish for work and maybe some Japanese.
Maybe if I think of it in terms of a puzzle......
Pot Luck #57: TXT U L8R - Texting
Pot Luck #57: TXT U L8R - Texting
I don't have a cell phone, so the only way I have sent any text message was via a web application to my DH's phone. I understand the principle behind it and have used DH's phone to access some web info, so I know how the keyboard function works. However, due to lack of any practice, I'm not sure I could send a message in an emergency. I might need to borrow DH's phone to practice my 'typing'.
I do understand some text lingo because I do use it in chat. I like Lingo 2 Word & can see where it could be really fun to use.
Texting and driving? I don't need to read the New York Times article. I already know that texting and driving is very, very, very scary. It is worse than talking on your phone & driving! I've alredy heard all the excuses on using a cell & driving and no, I don't think most people are talented enough to be doing both. I mean, I know some people, that if I HAD to ride with them, I wouldn't even talk to then while they were driving. I try very hard not to be in that situation.
It is scary seeing another driver texting while driving. Nothing could be that important.
If that is not bad enough, now Onstar wants you to twitter from the car ? OMG
I don't have a cell phone, so the only way I have sent any text message was via a web application to my DH's phone. I understand the principle behind it and have used DH's phone to access some web info, so I know how the keyboard function works. However, due to lack of any practice, I'm not sure I could send a message in an emergency. I might need to borrow DH's phone to practice my 'typing'.
I do understand some text lingo because I do use it in chat. I like Lingo 2 Word & can see where it could be really fun to use.
Texting and driving? I don't need to read the New York Times article. I already know that texting and driving is very, very, very scary. It is worse than talking on your phone & driving! I've alredy heard all the excuses on using a cell & driving and no, I don't think most people are talented enough to be doing both. I mean, I know some people, that if I HAD to ride with them, I wouldn't even talk to then while they were driving. I try very hard not to be in that situation.
It is scary seeing another driver texting while driving. Nothing could be that important.
If that is not bad enough, now Onstar wants you to twitter from the car ? OMG
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Potluck #50: Global Nation
Potluck #50: Global Nation
I decided to use Tripbase.com to plan a "dream" vacation. Lately, I've been having the urge to get closer to Nature than the cats, possums, raccons, crows, & hawks in my backyard.
I used the destination finder, deciding to fly with high emphasis on nature, a little on dining, and nothing else. Only one location on my list had high nature AND good dining.
Here is the overview: San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina for $2866 for 8 days
I looks like I'll have to get that passport. I'll be arriving to late for the Peguin Santuary tours, but there are several tours to local waterfalls, a glacier, and a volcano.
Volcano.........
On second thought, I think I 'll go to Yellowstone National Park for under $1300 for 8 days instead. I'm sure I could find good food and I'd probably get more exercise walking around.
Look at this list:
Lone Star Geyser
Mallard Lake
Firehole River
Midway Geyser Basin
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone Lake
Fairy Falls
Storm Point Trail
Heart Lake Loop
Seven-Mile Hole Trail
Trout Lake Trail
Purple Mountain Trail
I don't think I can do them all in one week, but this is half the price of Argentina, so maybe I'll stay twice as long.
Update: Yellowstone in the news - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29843691/
I decided to use Tripbase.com to plan a "dream" vacation. Lately, I've been having the urge to get closer to Nature than the cats, possums, raccons, crows, & hawks in my backyard.
I used the destination finder, deciding to fly with high emphasis on nature, a little on dining, and nothing else. Only one location on my list had high nature AND good dining.
Here is the overview: San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina for $2866 for 8 days
I looks like I'll have to get that passport. I'll be arriving to late for the Peguin Santuary tours, but there are several tours to local waterfalls, a glacier, and a volcano.
Volcano.........
On second thought, I think I 'll go to Yellowstone National Park for under $1300 for 8 days instead. I'm sure I could find good food and I'd probably get more exercise walking around.
Look at this list:
Lone Star Geyser
Mallard Lake
Firehole River
Midway Geyser Basin
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone Lake
Fairy Falls
Storm Point Trail
Heart Lake Loop
Seven-Mile Hole Trail
Trout Lake Trail
Purple Mountain Trail
I don't think I can do them all in one week, but this is half the price of Argentina, so maybe I'll stay twice as long.
Update: Yellowstone in the news - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29843691/
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