tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50027860004993953222024-03-04T23:01:28.454-08:00Pin-Striped PJ'sTips to save money and earn money (without actually having a job), mixed in with a little bit of financial newsLizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-42784651911914942592009-05-26T06:28:00.000-07:002009-05-26T07:19:29.849-07:00President Obama's Credit Card Law to Protect CardholdersBoth cardholders and <a href="http://www.federalreserve.gov/Pubs/shop/">credit card issuers </a>are to blame for credit card debt problems. Many cardholders overspend and are careless about sending in timely payments. Many credit card companies have been sneaky and unreasonable about increasing rates and charging fees and penalties, making it even more difficult for their customers to <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2008/01/03/pf/saving/toptips/index.htm">get out of debt</a>.<br /><br />At a signing ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/">President Obama </a>signed into law a bill that will help <a href="http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/consumerhdbk/">protect credit card holders </a>from the card companies' bad behavior. (Unfortunately, Obama is unable to protect cardholders from themselves. They'll just have to grow up and become responsible adults).<br /><br />President Obama spoke out against unexplained fees, changed payment deadlines, increases in interest rates, and applying payments toward low rate balances rather than high rate balances. Card holders with excellent track records as well as those who are delinquent have all been victimized by the companies' greedy tactics.<br /><br />“We’re here to put a change to all that,” President Obama declared. He set some new rules for the card companies which will become effective in early 2010:<br /><br /><ul><li>People under 21 cannot receive credit unless they can prove they have the ability to repay the debt or if a parent or guardian co-signs.<br /></li><li>Rates on existing balances cannot increase until the cardholder is at least 60 days delinquent.<br /></li><li>Once a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">delinquent</span> cardholder has paid at least the minimum for 6 months, their card's rate must return to it's original percentage. </li><br /><li>All cardholders must receive 45 days' notice and an explanation before any rate increase. </li><br /><li>Increased rates are not retroactive on previous balances for people who pay their bills on time and have been sending in at least their minimums.<br /></li></ul><p><strong>Warning</strong> - the credit card companies will find other ways to improve their revenue. In danger of extinction are cards with no annual fees and cards with freebies and cash back. Basic interest rates and fees might go up for everyone. The top issuing companies will probably survive this change but smaller banks might decide to get out of the business, giving the surviving companies less competition and a bit too much power for my taste. </p><p>For now, I will continue to pay my one and only card in full every month and brace myself for what comes next.<br /></p><p align="center"><strong>Related articles you might be interested in:</strong></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://pinstripedpjs.blogspot.com/2009/03/debt-how-to-avoid-get-out-and-stay-out.html#links">Debt - How to Avoid, Get Out and Stay Out</a><br /><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://pinstripedpjs.blogspot.com/2009/04/credit-scores-understanding-and.html#links">Credit Scores- Understand and Improving Yours</a><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://pinstripedpjs.blogspot.com/2009/01/cash-back-credit-cards.html#links">Cash Back Credit Cards</a><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="http://pinstripedpjs.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-file-for-bankruptcy-without.html#links">How to File Bankruptcy Without a Lawyer</a></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-4248713754774327072009-04-21T08:10:00.001-07:002009-04-27T06:48:24.281-07:00How to File For Bankruptcy Without a LawyerIndividuals are allowed to represent themselves in bankruptcy court. One doesn't need an attorney but be warned - success is not easy! There is so much to know and do. Do something wrong, forget to do something and one might may mess up their rights and success. Second chances are not often given.<br /><br />Having a good lawyer who specializes in bankruptcies is highly recommended. Some people qualify for "pro bono" (this means free) legal counseling. Contact the state bar association, court websites, and/or local law schools for more information on getting assistance or at least some advice. Check out the <a href="http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/findlegalhelp/home.cfm">American Bar Association</a> the <a href="http://www.lsc.gov/">Legal Services Corporation</a>, or the web site of the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/courtlinks/">bankruptcy court</a> where you intend to file.<br /><br />One needs to be familiar with the <a href="http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode11/usc_sup_01_11.html">US Bankruptcy Code</a>, the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rules-redir.pl?url=http://www.law.cornell.edu/rules/frbp/&title=%20Cornell%20Law%20School%20Legal%20Information%20Institute">Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure</a>, and the rules of the local court in which the case is filed. One can find "local rules" and other useful information at the local courthouse and on its website.<br /><br />Debtors (that's the person trying to get out their debts) must list <strong><em>all</em></strong> property and debts in their bankruptcy schedules. US Goverment <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/bkforms/bankruptcy_forms.html#200">Form B200 </a>lists documents and schedules you will need.<br /><ul><li>Be thorough - debts not listed will not be discharged!</li><br /><li>Be honest - if you are caught with one tiny indescretion, the judge can deny the whole case. No destroying, manipulating, distorting, hiding or lying!</li><br /><li>Cases are audited. If you are caught cheating, you are guilty of a crime (bankruptcy fraud) which means going to jail. Um, hmmm!</li></ul>Individulas who want to file for bankruptcy <em><strong>must</strong></em> get credit counseling from an <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/bankruptcycourts/approvedagencies.html">approved provider</a> within 180 days <strong><em>before</em></strong> filing their case. One must also file a Statement of Compliance and a Certificate of Credit Counseling (given by the counselor).<br /><br /><a name="services"></a>If you do not know where you are permitted to file a case, check the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/bkforms/bankruptcy_forms.html#official">Official Bankruptcy Forms page</a> to see the box on Form B1 (Voluntary Petition) entitled "Information Regarding the Debtor - Venue" and the part of the Instructions relating to that box.<br /><br />If you are filing or involved in a bankruptcy case and do not have an attorney, check out the web site of the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/courtlinks/">bankruptcy court</a> where the case has been or will be filed as well as the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/bankruptcycourts/resources.html">Bankruptcy Resources</a> page.<br /><br /><a name="fraud"></a><em><strong>Non-Attorney Petition Preparers</strong></em> type up information on <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/bkforms/index.html">Bankruptcy Forms</a> (forms are free, available at this link). They must sign every document they prepare; print their name, address, and social security number on the documents, and give copies to the debtor. They cannot sign a document on the debtor's behalf or receive payment from the debtor for court fees. They are barred by law from providing legal advice, telling debtors what to say in court, or helping out during court.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-18971600068326299292009-04-09T06:52:00.001-07:002010-06-05T14:38:10.130-07:00Credit Scores - Understanding and Improving Yours<div>Your USA credit rating is very important. It will decide whether or not you get approved for a loan. It will influence your interest rate. It might also influence whether you are hired at a new job, your car insurance rates, and your utility rates. Think of interest as money flushed down the toilet - avoid it as much as possible.<br />
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<strong>Different ways to obtain your credit report:</strong><br />
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* If you recently applied for a loan, the lender/bank did a credit check on you and got a score. They must tell you, for free, what that number was. My bank mailed me a letter.<br />
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* You are entitled to a <a href="https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index?move=yes">free report </a>once every 12 months, thanks to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fair_and_Accurate_Credit_Transactions_Act">Fair And Accurate Credit Transitions Act </a>of 2003. This is great for finding out your credit history and credit score. You might uncover items on your history that are wrong or not you. You might discover you are the victim of identity theft. You will receive reports from each of the "Big Three" credit reporting companies - <a href="http://www.equifax.com/freereportandcreditscore/drtv/?CMP=KNC-Google&HBX_PK=fico&HBX_OU=50&gclid=CLS0hcyL5JkCFdxM5Qod_n4nRg">Equifax</a>, <a href="http://www.experian.com/?ysmwa=ml3zrrmVPWYE7xGfpCwEhqVNgFFcFO33fewrcRDUV_cDZW_8OOhfYYoY2nTeZ7dr">Experian </a>and <a href="http://www.transunion.com/">TransUnion</a>.<br />
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* Bankrate.com offers an <a href="http://www.bankrate.com/brm/fico/calc.asp">online credit score estimator</a>. It's free and quite fast. I did it and the result matches what my bank recently told me. It's a good starting to point to see if your credit is bad, good or great.<br />
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* There are many different companies that monitor credit. To "join" one of these companies you have to pay a monthly fee and in return you receive updates on your credit report, alerts when something new has occured or your score has changed, as well as helpful financial information. <a href="http://www.consumercompare.org/credit_report_services/compare.php?kw=cc1+gcrfsb2+fico&gclid=COCwqNv545kCFQOeFQodHkzaRw">Next Advisor </a>has a wonderful online chart comparing several different companies, their costs, and benefits.<br />
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<strong>The following items affect credit scores:</strong><br />
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* Payment history - All payments should be on time. Minimums or more than the minimum should be sent in for auto, personal and mortgage loans. Credit cards should be paid in full each month. Never, ever skip a payment - send in at least something to show good faith. Bankruptcy is bad - it'll be on your credit report for 10 years. Avoid it at all costs - try to work something out with your creditors. You can get loans after bankruptcy but the interest rates will be sky high and will eat like a cancer into your bank account.<br />
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* Amounts owed -<br />
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</div><ul><li>The total monthly minimum owed is compared to monthly income. This shows the lender whether you are living beyond your means (and have spending control issues or just aren't ready to be financially independent). </li>
<li>The balance is also compared to the credit limit. Lenders like a big gap between these two numbers because this leaves room for paying for unexpected bills (car repairs, home repairs, sudden health issues etc). When your credit card is new and the limit is low, try to keep under 80% of the limit and pay in full each month. When your card limits get higher, stay under 30%. Carrying a balance into the next month is okay but avoid it when you can.</li>
</ul><div>* Age of your credit history - The older the better. Get started as soon as possible. A simple gas card is a good first step - it's something you will use regularly and can pay off in full each month. A seasoned credit history gives the lender a very good idea of who you are as a borrower. Some lenders will not give out loans to people with little or no credit history.<br />
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* Types of credit - Different types is good. It shows experience which lenders like. One car loan, one mortgage loan, one personal loan, one credit card = good mix. All credit cards and nothing else = bad.<br />
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* New credit:</div><div></div><ul><li>This is almost like no credit history. You haven't proven yourself so you are considered a risk. It's a "fear of the unknown" that scares lenders.</li>
<li>The other kind of "new credit" is when someone with a longer history takes out new loans or gets new credit cards all of a sudden - this makes a lender nervous - why does this person all of a sudden need money?</li>
<li>Never apply for multiple loans/credit all at the same time. When the lenders see your credit report, they will see that everyone else is checking you out at the same time. What might happen is everyone will scare each other away and you will end up with nothing.</li>
</ul><div><br />
Your job history will also affect whether or not you get a loan as well as the interest rate. Don't be a job hopper. Find a good paying job and stay there. If you are new at a job, hopefully you were with your previous employer for many years. Lenders like stability. They feel it reflects good character which is less of a risk to them.<br />
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Having a well-paying job is important, too. Lenders will compare your loans to monthly income to determine your ability to stay financially healthy and repay them.<br />
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Hopefully, the above information is helpful. </div><div><br />
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</div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkPkhwuUXis8ly6kJ91iR_24yDI6Anun886xe78ZarL6fZKjBH8FnDsODpoIBspinwtIQz5CT6MobA9FN0BDFtNFdNlWuO5KudLPnXMenN-V7PET9s6cGZGORLe5xfLfWzcBd8uhlHdSr/s1600-h/credit-score.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322722769388185730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkPkhwuUXis8ly6kJ91iR_24yDI6Anun886xe78ZarL6fZKjBH8FnDsODpoIBspinwtIQz5CT6MobA9FN0BDFtNFdNlWuO5KudLPnXMenN-V7PET9s6cGZGORLe5xfLfWzcBd8uhlHdSr/s400/credit-score.jpg" style="cursor: hand; height: 167px; width: 237px;" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div align="center"></div><div><br />
<strong>How I established my credit score of 811 (which is excellent):</strong><br />
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After 6 months at my first part-time job, I got a "secured" credit card from my bank. I did this for two reasons: I needed a credit card to get a rental car for my uncoming vacation (rental companies do not rent to people without credit cards). I also wanted to establish my credit because, one day in my distant future, I would eventually apply for a car loan and a mortgage - a credit history will be a must.<br />
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After 6 months of charging necessities only on my credit card and paying the bill in full every month, I applied for one gas card and used that card every week for fill-ups. I paid those bills in full.<br />
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After being at the same job for 12 months, I applied for one department store card and used it once a month only, just to keep it active. I paid my bill in full every month. I also closed my secured credit card account and got a regular account with a higher limit (thru the same bank).<br />
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When I moved into my first apartment, I was able to get the utilities in my name because I had a credit history already. Having utilities in my name now contributes to my future credit history. Always paid those bills in full. I want good credit and I want heat!<br />
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I applied for another department store card to pay for my refrigerator and couch only. I paid those two purchases off in three months. I did not do any decorating or fun spending because I consider money to be "tight" until all credit cards balances are zero.<br />
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When I applied for my first car loan, I paid extra each month, paying it off in 3.5 years, avoiding flusing interest money down the toilet. I also bought what I needed, not what I wanted.<br />
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The rest of my life follows that pattern. No fun spending until the credit card can be paid in full each month. Shop around for rates for car and mortgage loans. Refinance into lower rates if possible.<br />
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Update: Just applied for a 2nd mortgage to build another room onto our house. My credit score was 890. That's kick ass great!</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-65805919881013164092009-04-06T05:14:00.000-07:002009-04-06T05:18:55.068-07:00Tax Write Offs for Your Cat - VideoSheba and her owner discuss various tax write offs. I think they need to get a second opinion!<br /><br /><br /><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q7UVNH73eBY&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q7UVNH73eBY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-32752300229527056142009-04-01T16:35:00.000-07:002009-04-01T17:20:56.465-07:00Chase Bank Lawsuit - Monthly Service FeesA California class action suit claims that Chase Bank has violated, among other things, the <a href="http://www.fdic.gov/regulations/laws/rules/6500-200.html">Truth in Lending Act </a>when it began charging its customers a $10 "monthly service fee" on "balance transfer checks." This fee was applied to existing transfered balances as well as the new ones.<br /><br />Many cardholders became irate because this fee was not disclosed to them at the time they used their transfer checks. Many people refused to pay the fee. To make matters worse for themselves, Chase Bank then upped the interest rate and minimum monthly payment on these particular account holders. This is another action, not in the original terms of the transfer contract, that is part of the lawsuit.<br /><br />Many people who used the balance transfer checks were struggling to keep control of their finances. They were consolidating high interest loans into a single low interest loan. The monthly fee and raised rates ended up making finances more difficult. Some cardholders would have been better off not doing the transfer when the new terms are considered.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-28394266289374991042009-03-23T18:31:00.000-07:002009-03-23T18:56:57.153-07:00AIG Executives Giving Back BonusesThe US government paid <a href="http://www.aig.com/Home-Page_20_17084.html">AIG</a> about $170 billion in bailout money so far this year. Then AIG turned around and doled out $165 million in bonuses and retention bribes. Some of the money even went to former employees.<br /><br />To say this outraged the public and it's customers is an understatement. Mediums saw angry mobs with pitchforks and torches in their crystal balls.<br /><br />So far 15 AIG executives have agreed to return their bonuses which comes out to about $30 million. A few lower ranking employees have also agreed to return their bonuses, another $20 million. Employees have been asked to return their bonuses. Some have, some are still thinking about it and some refuse to do so. There have been some high level resignations.<br /><br />Bonus information is being collected by <a href="http://www.ct.gov/governorrell/site/default.asp">Governor Rell</a>, hoping to invalidate them under the <a href="http://www.ct.gov/dcp/lib/dcp/trade_practices/connecticut_unfair_trade_practices_act_regulations.doc">Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act</a>. Go, Rell, go!<br /><br />The House of Representatives tried to put a 90% tax on bonuses of the higher-earning employees just at AIG but the President said it was unconstitutional. Now the Senate is thinking of something similar to pass.<br /><br />If you look at how much money AIG lost, this bonus amount is tiny in comparison and not the cause of their financial problems. It's the higher up muckie-mucks pilfering the vast coffers of their employer. However, companies should never hand out bonuses unless the company does well. AIG is not doing well and should not be paying anyone bonuses.<br /><br />Besides, I think bonuses should be handed out from the bottom levels up - where the money is truly needed and matters.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-687113720229848492009-03-16T07:12:00.000-07:002009-03-22T12:46:29.186-07:00DEBT - How to Avoid, Get Out, and Stay OutSo many of us spend more than we earn each month. Our lifestyles are beyond our means. And we are in total, 100% denial of this fact. We are clueless and stupid. No disrespect intended.<br /><br />How much money that is spent each month should be based upon income, not on what is wanted or desired or anything else that one's Id has a hankering for. We are humans and we are adults - we must rise above this lack of self-control.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZWDgiF6QtuHBJxX3Tk0EG8uQT9Sdix4z8l__OpX-FPyjVkXvx2Aw2ZLFyjuURTl4Z419rJGfFRQ4dGoSwLpZY0SliyNMb81aZUBGmEulS-auhNBPO_HZjMf532iXCGWsYCkeBwFTud36/s1600-h/burn-credit-card.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314161608081581282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 217px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZWDgiF6QtuHBJxX3Tk0EG8uQT9Sdix4z8l__OpX-FPyjVkXvx2Aw2ZLFyjuURTl4Z419rJGfFRQ4dGoSwLpZY0SliyNMb81aZUBGmEulS-auhNBPO_HZjMf532iXCGWsYCkeBwFTud36/s320/burn-credit-card.jpg" border="0" /></a>It's time to grow up and be a responsible adult that makes smart decisions. Time to put on your big girl panties or big boy boxers!<br /><br />First of all, destroy every single credit card and ship them back to the banks, asking that your accounts be closed immediately. Don't give me any whining or I'll get out the world's smallest violin and play "My Heart Bleeds For You."<br /><br />You are allowed to have only one phone. If you have a cell phone, cancel your landline completely. Now contact your cell phone provider and get into the cheapest package you can. Get rid of texting. A call is cheaper than a text. Texting is for teenagers - it's like passing notes in class.<br /><br /><ul><br /><li>Drop all memberships - the gym, the museum, clubs, everything!</li><br /><li>Stop paying people to do things you can do yourself - manicures, lawn mowing, cleaning service.</li><br /><li>Stop eating out at restaurants, clubs and bars, and going to movies, plays and concerts...at least for the next 2 months to see how able you are at meeting your "needs."</li></ul>Now let's look at your income because that's our starting point for figuring out what you can spend.<br /><br /><strong>What is your gross (before tax) income per month?</strong><br /><br />Figure out 10% and tag it for retirement. This can be a 401K, an IRA or savings account or combination of the three. Just make sure you are saving 10% every month for when you are old and gray. This is NOT vacation or fun money! You must put this much away every month or you will be living in a cardboard box and visiting soup kitchens during your golden years.<br /><br />Figure out 25% and tag it for housing. This is the MAXIMUM that you should be spending to put a roof over your head. Homeowners should count mortages/equity loans. Renters need to count their rent. Add in any association fees. If this monthly amount is under 25% then do a happy dance because you'll need this extra cushion to help you out in the next step. If it is above the 25% limit, then refinance your mortgage or MOVE SOMEWHERE CHEAPER!<br /><br />Figure out 35% and tag it for housing + long term loans. Use the money you figured out in the previous step and add to it: homeowner/renter insurance (calcuate a monthly average), private mortgage insurance (PMI), car payments, car insurance, student loans, personal loans, property taxes (figure out a monthly average).<br /><br />If you are under the 35%, good for you! If you are over the 35% limit, then you need to reduce one of the variables: Move somewhere that doesn't have association fees or has lower property taxes. If your loan balance is 80% or less of the original loan amount, you can get out of the PMI by writing to the lien holder. Trade your car in for one that'll give you lower monthly payments and cheaper insurance or even go for a motorcycle. See about refinancing your student loans. Sometimes Bank of Dad comes in handy. Make up a contract that details monthly payments and penalties for late payments and be faithful in your payments! Never send in nothing. Always send something no matter how sad your excuse is. I don't want to see the two of you on Judge Judy!<br /><br />Some people like to bring in room mates to help out with income. That's a nice idea but remember that room mates come and go. Those times between an old and new room mate are going to be tight. If there's a falling out or something unforseen comes, you may not receive that last month's rent or a 30 day notice. Don't put yourself in this position. It's a vulnerable place to be. Be a roomer rather than the main person on the lease.<br /><br />Now on to the subject of food. In the beginning, allow yourself to eat out only once a month and it has to be somewhere cheap. It'll be painful, but you'll get used to it. I promise. One idea for you - dump your change into a jar at the end of every day. After the end of each month, however much change you have dictates how much you can spend eating out. Here's another idea - invite friends over. You treat to pizza (using your accumulated change), one friend brings drinks, another brings salad, and another brings dessert. Make it once a month get-together.<br /><br />At home you need to buy the basic ingredients and make your own meals. No boxed, ready to cook meals. One of my pet peeves is boxed macaroni and cheese meals. OMG - it is so cheap to buy your own macaroni and use some Cheese Wiz or cubes from a block of cheese you cut up yourself.<br /><br />Do not be brand loyal! Become a Benedict Arnold and hold your head up high! Use coupons but beware - some brands are still more expensive even with the coupon applied. Don't get tricked.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyaob4Qy-bgJm5JBEaW1eJSnmp5L5DV9VAc8VSscgrkRD1QSnzivZMIvfO_PJyv3YHsMqXdejGB3L0U1mgH-fO18YAQzHAIs3Jod9mS1E-a0kNCzpBEw_hjnjCLZDI9nKrfZft42qwKOI/s1600-h/Fruits___Vegetables.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314164086166190050" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 250px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 223px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyaob4Qy-bgJm5JBEaW1eJSnmp5L5DV9VAc8VSscgrkRD1QSnzivZMIvfO_PJyv3YHsMqXdejGB3L0U1mgH-fO18YAQzHAIs3Jod9mS1E-a0kNCzpBEw_hjnjCLZDI9nKrfZft42qwKOI/s320/Fruits___Vegetables.jpg" border="0" /></a>For fruits, get fresh or canned. You have your favorites so buy the one that's the cheapest per pound that week. Applesauce is cheaper than fresh apples per serving. If canned or jarred fruit goes on sale, buy a bunch of it.<br /><br />Go frozen with veggies. Canned is high in salt has has a funny metallic taste. Frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh but cheaper. Again, compare your favorites and buy whichever one is the cheapest per pound. Get the size of bag that's the best price per pound. It's not always the largest bag.<br /><br />Meat is a touchy subject. The cheapest meats are usually high in fat and bad for you. You don't want to be eating high fat meat every day! Try to get low fat, healthier cuts of meat but only eat meat three times a week. Figure on a quarter pound of meat (or less) per person. Avoid super size servings. On the other days, eat macaroni, spaghetti or soup. Soup is real cheap.<br /><br />Forget about buying snacks, desserts and booze. Maybe allow yourself one big bag of pretzels per week. They are cheap, low in fat, and tasty.<br /><br />About paying your bills - always pay the full amount requested on items that can be taken away from you like your home, utilities and car. Then pay the minimum on your other monthly payments.<br /><br />Clothes - never pay full price. Wait for sales. Ask yourself whether you need it or want it. Replacing worn out sneakers is a need. Wanting shoes to match an outfit is a want. Thrift shops are misunderstood. If you take the time, you can find nice clothes that fit properly. Don't settle for clothes that are ill-fitting, stained or in bad repair. Be patient and picky. No one will ever know if you do this right.<br /><br />Decorating - don't do it right now.<br /><br />Go through the above crash diet on spending for at least 2 months to see just how much money you have left over for "wants." Write down every expenditure to give yourself an idea of just how much you can spend on stuff, movies, eating out and such. Write down how much money you will allow for fun or shopping each month.<br /><br />If you want to buy something big, like a couch, you need to start saving and pay for it in full with cash. This is how <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ross_Perot">Ross Perot </a>worked his way up. Seriously!<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vzXY1Ep_ZsKepsxHYRS9cYeDsdGD89GiJU11g3LJCHn1p5XGysw3qHG1jpJIkSSGrxls4k-BIXPQU_VmQvNX5IDEqTRCBIPuXtPZmYxbKzqmBsYaNWG-mEqzTuXADE8px0hQ4UylfMkU/s1600-h/piggy+bank.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314165239811377506" style="WIDTH: 216px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vzXY1Ep_ZsKepsxHYRS9cYeDsdGD89GiJU11g3LJCHn1p5XGysw3qHG1jpJIkSSGrxls4k-BIXPQU_VmQvNX5IDEqTRCBIPuXtPZmYxbKzqmBsYaNWG-mEqzTuXADE8px0hQ4UylfMkU/s400/piggy+bank.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-89067609113391132522009-03-06T07:32:00.000-08:002009-04-01T06:32:36.691-07:00Freebies - Free Stuff on Your Birthday and Throughout the Year!Lots of restaurants and stores give you freebies on your birthday. Food, fun, games, all kinds of free stuff! You might have sign up first. Some places let you sign up online but others need you to fill out a form in person. Please contact the businesses first (website, phone call or personal visit) for details. Not all locations are participants - sometimes it's up to the manager or franchise owner. Not all employees know about the clubs, so you might want to talk to a manager.<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.freebirthdaytreats.com/"></a>This list is still under construction...<br /><p><a href="http://www.alfyspizza.com/specials.htm">Alfy’s Pizza</a> - Free personal pizza for kids 12 and under.</p><p><a href="http://www.amatos.com/club/">Amato’s Sandwich Shop</a> - free food and/or gift</p><p><a href="http://www.addaform.com/c/@DJgB9V9guepbg/Forms/76808EVJ/76808EVJ.html">Applebees</a> - Free kids meal</p><p><a href="http://www.arbysthankyouclub.com/aremail.asp">Arby’s</a> - coupons</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/atlbrd/lp/join/join.asp">Atlanta Bread Company</a> - free cookie on your birthday.</p><p><a href="http://www.auntieannes.com/email_signup.aspx">Auntie Anne’s Pretzels</a> - coupons.</p><p><a href="http://www.austingrill.com/austingrillee/index.php?/austin_grill_main/join/">Austin Grill</a> - coupons</p><p><a href="http://bakerssquare.prm1.net/e/signup/">Bakers Square</a> - coupons</p><p><a href="http://www.bandidos.com/index/FreeStuff/free-birthday-food.asp">Bandido’s</a> - $12 coupon toward entree.</p><p><a href="http://www.baskinrobbins.com/BDayClub/RegisterInfo1.aspx">Baskin Robbins</a> - Get a free ice cream plus discount on birthday cake</p><p><a href="http://www.bearmountain.com/index_winter.php">Bear Mountain/Snow Summit </a>- (SoCal) - lift tickets</p><p><a href="http://www.belleayre.com/winter/special.htm">Belleayre Moutain</a> - (NY) - lift tickets (off season birthdays can come during ski season)</p><p><a href="http://www.benjerry.com/our_company/contact_us/forms/chunk_spelunker/index.cfm">Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream</a> - free ice cream!</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/bdscrp/lp/wb/join.asp">BD’s</a> - Join Club Mongo </p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/bjs/lp/join/joinnew.asp">BJ’s Restaurants</a> - Free Pazookie</p><p><a href="http://www.blackangus.com/PrimeClub.htm">Black Angus Steakhouse</a> - free steak dinner when you join and again on your birthday.</p><p><a href="http://www.blimpie.com/index.html">Blimpee's Subs </a>- Free 6 inch sub<br /><br /><a href="https://kids.bobevans.com/birthday.asp">Bob Evans</a> - Free kids meal </p><p><a href="http://www.bigboy.com/">Bob’s Big Boy</a> - contact your local restaurant</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/bnza/lp/join/join.asp">Bonanza/Ponderosa Steakhouse</a> - contact your local restaurant</p><p><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/Home">Border's Bookstore & Cafe</a> - coupon and dessert</p><p><a href="http://www.bostonmarket.com/home">Boston Market</a> - coupons</p><p><a href="http://www.bowlbrunswick.com/coupons?noCache=52:1236545173">Brunswick Bowling</a> - lots of freebies and discounts</p><p><a href="http://www.bucadibeppo.com/eclub/">Buca di Beppo</a> - treat for joining and on your birthday and anniversary</p><p><a href="http://www.buffalowildwings.com/">Buffalo Wild Wings</a> - click on the tree house in the upper left corner on their site to join. Free dessert.</p><p><a href="http://www.clubbk.com/Register/Default.aspx">Burger King</a> - free kids meal<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cpk.com/cpkids/register.php">California Pizza Kitchen</a> - Free kids meal during the month of their birthday<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/cptnd/lp/join/join.asp">Captain D’s</a> - Join their D’s Club and get a coupon for $3 off any meal, among other freebies.</p><a href="http://www.cariboucoffee.com/page/1/home.jsp">Caribou Coffee</a><br /><br /><p><a href="http://www.carrows.com/eClub/go.php?pid=su">Carrows</a> - free dessert for signing up and again on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.beststeakinthewest.com/">Cattlemen’s Steakhouses </a>- Free dessert </p><p><a href="http://65.86.161.70/hscver2007/handshakeclub.shtml">Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse</a> - Sign up and get a free dessert plus points for every dollar spent.</p><a href="http://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/default.asp">Cheesecake Factory </a>- Free dessert<br /><br /><p><a href="http://news.chevys.com/clients/chevys/survey.htm">Chevy’s Fresh Mex </a>- "free gift"</p><a href="http://www.childrensplace.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/BirthdayClubRegistration?langId=-1&catalogId=10001&storeId=10001">Children's Place </a>- Free gift coupon on your birthday and on your child's birthday<br /><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/chlscrp/lp/join/join.asp">Chili’s</a> - Free chips and queso when you join plus a coupon for your birthday.</p><p>Chips N Giggles - Free meal</p><p><a href="http://www.chuckecheese.com/coupons/register.php">Chuck E. Cheese’s</a> - Free gift on child's birthday plus email coupons throughout the year</p><p><a href="http://www.claimjumper.com/hypertext/joinresponse.htm">Claim Jumper</a> - Free dessert.</p><p><a href="http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/birthday/birthday_club.aspx">Coldstone Creamery</a> - free ice cream<br /><br /><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/buffets/lp/join/join_ryans.asp">Country Buffet</a> - coupon on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://hosted.where2getit.com/crackerbarrel/">Cracker Barrel</a> - Contact your local restaurant</p><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">C</span><a href="http://www.culvers.com/culverized/e-club.aspx">ulvers</a> - offers and coupons when you sign up and on your birthdy.</p><p><a href="http://thedqcentral.com/">Dairy Queen</a> - Free ice cream coupon.</p><p><a href="http://www.damonsglendale.com/index.html">Damon’s Steakhouse </a>- coupons </p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.daveandbusters.com/Rewards/Profile.aspx">Dave And Busters </a>- free games, coupons, discounts</p><p><span style="color:#3366ff;">De</span><a href="http://www.deltaco.com/page8.html">l Taco</a> - two free soft tacos when you sign up and a free shake on your birthday.</p><p><a href="http://www.dennys.com/LiveImages/enProductImage_334.pdf">Denny’s</a> - Free kids meal and sundae.</p><p><a href="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=FreeOnYourBirthdayPage&bhcp=1">Disneyland or Disneyworld </a>- Free admission on your birthday in 2009</p><p><a href="http://www.donpablos.com/">Don Pablos</a> - Join their Habenero Club and get free dip sampler when you sign up, plus $10 coupon on your birthday, club anniversary and every 10th visit.</p><p><a href="http://www.einsteinbros.com/#/EClub/">Einstein Brothers Bagels </a>- coupons throughout the year</p><p><a href="http://www.elchico.com/join_club.php">El Chico Cafe </a>- coupons throughout the year</p><p><a href="http://www.famousdaves.com/pig-club/">Famous Dave’s Barbeque</a> - Free meal (not all locations have the P.I.G. Club)</p><p><a href="http://www.farrellispizza.com/club.html">Farrelli’s Pizza</a> - Join their Fire Club and get coupons when you sign up, on your birthday and on your club anniversary. You also get "cash back."</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/fzl/lp/join/join.asp">Fazoli’s</a> - coupons throughout the year</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/buffets/lp/join/join_ryans.asp">Fire Mountain</a> - free Mega Bar Meal when you join plus coupons on your birthday, club anniversary and throughout the year</p><p><a href="http://www.firehousesubs.com/birthday/">Firehouse Subs</a> - free sub on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clients/flattop/loop/join/join.html">Flat Top Grill</a> - freebie when you sign up and on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.friendlys.com/bday_club/?lastMid=222534">Friendly’s</a> - Free ice cream cone if you join their birthday club.</p><p><a href="http://www.frostypawstreats.com/frostypaws/default.aspx?tabid=43">Frosty Paws</a> - free stuff for your dog</p><p><a href="http://www.fuddsclub.com/">Fuddruckers </a>- kids club</p><p><a href="http://www.glorydaysgrill.com/">Glory Days Grill</a> - Free sundae on your birthday if you sign up in advance.</p><p><a href="http://www.goldstarchili.com/eclub/join-eclub/default.aspx">Gold Star Chili</a> - Get a free dessert on your birthday, free treat on your anniversary of joining, and a free appetizer when you sign up.</p><p><a href="http://www.goldencorral.com/">Golden Corral</a> - check with your local restaurant </p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/grdnBrsch/lp/join/join2.asp">Gordon Biersch</a> - coupon for joining and on birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.grillfish.com/">Grillfish</a> - Free meal </p><p><a href="https://www.hardrock.com/Estore/login/login.asp?TargetURL=/estore/services/customer/hrc_myrock_homepage.asp&sError=Please+login&QueryString=">Hard Rock Cafe </a>- discounts, freebies and priorities</p><p>Hollywood Video - Free video rental if you <a href="https://www.hollywoodvideo.com/profile/default.aspx?new=Y">sign up</a> in advance.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/buffets/lp/join/join_ryans.asp">Hometown Buffet</a> - coupon on your birthday</p><p>Hooters - Free song & T-shirt (Pretty soon here I’m going to have an entire outfit!) If you live on the west coast, there’s even a <a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/htrs/lp/join/joinftf.asp">Hooters Club</a> for you to join up with.</p><p><a href="http://www.houlihans.com/EmailClub.aspx">Houlihan’s</a> - Free coupon for an entree during your next visit up to a week after b-day (Kinda complicated…but free!)</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/jcs/lp/join/join.asp">Joe’s Crab Shack</a> - Free cake if you join their club.</p><p><a href="http://server1.streamsend.com/streamsend/signup.php?cd=47792&ld=12">Juice It Up</a> - They promise to give you a “birthday gift” but their website doesn’t say what it is. Might be worth signing up for though.</p><p>Keg Steakhouse and Bar - Hiffer Jospeh reports they’ll give you a 10oz. prime rib dinner with Caesar salad during your birthday month, Sunday-Thursday only. You might want to call ahead to confirm this though.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/keva/lp/join/join.asp">Keva</a> - The Keva Klub promises free coupons around the time of your birthday.</p><p><a href="http://krispykreme.qm4.net/members/UpdateProfile.aspx?Action=Subscribe">Krispy Kreme</a> - Free half dozen glazed donuts and a coffee mug with either coffee or soda in it! You might want to sign up ahead of time.</p><p>Logan’s Roadhouse - Free song and slice of cheesecake.</p><p>Lotus - Free meal</p><p>Macaroni Grill - Free dessert plus an OPERA-style “Happy Birthday” song, which is always different.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/lmdln/lp/join/join/join.asp">la Madeleine</a> - coupons for free food around your birthday.</p><p>MACARONI GRILL - free dessert + OPERA-style "Happy birthday" song </p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/mggns/lp/join/join.asp">Maggianos</a> - $10 off purchase of $20 if you sign up in advance.</p><p><a href="http://www.msventures.com/">Mainstreet Ventures</a> - Up to 50% off your meal.</p><p><a href="http://marbleslabcreamery.com/kids/join.asp">Marble Slab Creamery</a> - free ice cream cone on birthday up to age 12.</p><p>Marie Calenders</p><p>MAX AND ERMA </p><p>MELTING POT - Club Fondue <a href="http://www.themeltingpotclubfondue.com/" target="_blank">The Melting Pot</a></p><p><a href="http://www.memphis-bbq.com/">Memphis BBQ</a> - Coupon good for a free Rack of Ribs & strawberry shortcake, but you must sign up on their website 24 hours in advance.</p><p>Mexican Village - Free meal</p><p><a href="http://www.moes.com/newsletter.aspx">Moe’s Southwest Grill</a> - coupon for a free burrito. They also have a <a href="http://moes.kidsbirthdayclub.com/sign_up.cfm">birthday club</a> for kids under 10.</p><p><a href="http://www.gomongo.com/experience/joinClubMongo.php">Mongolian’s B.B.Q.</a> - coupon for a <a href="http://www.heyitsfree.net/">free birthday meal</a>.</p><p>MY LITTLE PONY BIRTHDAY CLUB - <a href="http://www.hasbro.com/mylittlepony/default.cfm?page=Entertainment/Parties/BirthdayClub" target="_blank">mylittlepony - Entertainment/Parties/BirthdayClub</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/ndls/lp/join/join.asp">Noodles & Company</a> - Signup for their newsletter and they’ll send ya a coupon for a free meal right around our birthday!</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/ochrl/lp/zipjoin/eclub.html">O’Charley’s</a> - I remember getting quite a few free desserts over the years from them! They have an E-News club that you can sign up at to get the coupons.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/buffets/lp/join/join_ryans.asp">Old Country Buffet</a> - coupon on your birthday</p><p><a href="https://hospitaliano.olivegarden.com/clients/olivegarden/survey.htm">Olive Garden</a> </p><p><a href="http://clubcantina.ontheborder.com/clients/ontheborder/survey.htm">On The Border</a> - Free appetizer if you sign up.</p><p>Outback Steakhouse - Free dessert or appetizer</p><p><a href="http://www.pbloco.com/freestuff.asp">P.B. Loco</a> - Sign up for their newsletters and you’ll receive coupons periodically for free stuff, as well as coupons for free stuff when your B-day rolls around.</p><p><a href="http://bakerybuddies.kidsbirthdayclub.com/">Perkin’s</a> - Free bakery goodie on birthdays for kids under 12.</p><p><a href="http://www.pfchangs.com/">P.F. Chang’s</a> - Free cake or cheesecake via their e-mail list.</p><p>Poncho’s - Free meal, dessert & pictureProvino’s Italian Restaurant - Free $10.99 meal and ice cream dessert</p><p><a href="http://www.qdoba.com/Email.aspx">Qdoba Mexican Grill</a> - Join their eClub and get a free burrito on your birthday, as well as free chips n’ salsa just for joining up.</p><p><a href="http://www.quiznos.com/offers/index.aspx">Quizno’s</a> - Join their mailing list and get a free birthday gift </p><p><a href="http://overboard.redlobster.com/clients/redlobster/survey.htm">Red Lobster</a> - Free slice of cake if you join their Overboard Club.</p><p><a href="http://apps.fishbowl.com/a/redrobin/join/join.asp">Red Robin</a> - Free Hamburger if you sign up for Eclub.</p><p><a href="http://www.ringling.com/offers/baby.aspx">Ringling Brothers Circus </a></p><p><a href="http://www.rockbottom.com/MugClub.php">Rock Bottom</a> - Free appetizer for Mug Club members.</p><p>Round Table - Free personal pizza</p><p><a href="http://www.rubytuesday.com/soconnected.asp">Ruby Tuesday</a> - Sign up in advance and they’ll send you something!</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/buffets/lp/join/join_ryans.asp">Ryan’s</a> - coupon on your birthday</p><p>Safeway Grocery Store</p><p><a href="http://www.sanfranciscooven.com/ovenbytes.html">San Francisco Over</a> - Sign up in advance and you’ll get a coupon for a free birthday treat.</p><p><a href="http://www.schlotzskys.com/">Schlotzsky’s</a> - Get a free sandwich if you sign up ahead of time.</p><p><a href="https://www.smokeybones.com/bonesclub/">Smoky Bones</a> - Members of the Bones Club get a free meal or appetizer, not sure which.</p><p>Snow Summit/Bear Montain (SoCal) - Free skiing/riding</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/SpghttWrhs/lp/join/join.asp">Spaghetti Warehouse</a> - Signup for a free meal & possibly free appetizer?</p>SONIC - <a href="http://wackypack.kidsbirthdayclub.com/" target="_blank">Wacky Pack Kids' Birthday Club</a> & one for adults too<br /><br /><p><a href="http://www.soupersalad.com/source/SFC/SFC_Main.aspx">Souper Salad</a> - Join their Souper Salad Club and they’ll e-mail you a coupon for one free birthday meal which can be used within a week or your birthday.</p>STEAK AND ALE - free mini choco cake<br /><br /><p>Steak-N-Shake - Free dinner for “birthday club” kids.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/swschl/lp/join/join.asp">Swiss Chalet</a> - Get a free appetizer just for joining the Rotisserie-mail plus a free birthday surprise.</p><p><a href="http://www.genxmex.com/">Taco Bell</a> - Free combo meal of your choice.</p><p>Target - They send you a <a href="https://sites.target.com/site/en/spot/page.jsp;jsessionid=V0TQ015MSCCDRLARAAV5X5Y?title=birthdaycentral_signup&_requestid=1056390">free Birthday Mailer</a>, full of free gifts, tips, and coupons. You sign up to six of your children who will all receive a mailer on their birthday!</p><p>Ten Ren - Hiffer Bethany sent in a tip that her local Ten Ren has a sign offering a free Bubble Tea on your birthday with photo identification.</p><p><a href="http://www.texasdebrazil.com/index2.php">Texas De Brazil</a> - Sign up for their e-club and they’ll send you a $40 gift certificate! This place can be pricey, but it’s soooo worth it.</p><p><a href="http://www.fridays.com/gmms/GiveMeMoreStripes.aspx">TGI Friday’s</a> - Join their Stripes Club and receive an appetizer/dessert just for joining. Earn points throughout the year every time you dine.</p><p><a href="http://www.childrensplace.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/BirthdayClubRegistration?langId=-1&catalogId=10001&storeId=10001">The Children’s Place</a> - Register to receive coupons on your birthday and again on your child's birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/ttlentmnt/lp/join/v3/join.asp">The Fox and Hound</a> - Free appetizer when you join and an entree on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://oldspaghettifactory.kidsbirthdayclub.com/">The Old Spaghetti Factory</a> - free kid's meal</p><p><a href="http://www.thepalm.com/index.cfm?fa=p&pid=8">The Palm</a> - Join the 837 Club and earn points every time you dine. Rewards vary by location.</p><p><a href="http://www.pastahouse.com/locations/index.html">The Pasta House and Pronto </a>- Free dessert. Check with your local restaurant.</p><p><a href="http://www.vinetavern.com/">The Vine Tavern & Eatery</a> - Free lunch</p><p><a href="https://secure.murgent.com/emopt/index.php?id=2665%20">Todai Seafood and Sushi Buffet </a>- several coupons and freebies</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/tnyrms/lp/join/join.asp">Tony Roma’s</a> - sign up and receive a dessert</p><p><a href="http://www.trubdayclub.com/">Toys R Us </a>- card, gift and balloon on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://insidersclub.unos.com/insiders/">Uno Chicago Grill </a>- free appetizer for joining and coupons on your birthday</p><p><a href="http://www.vaccarospastry.com/promotions.jsp">Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop </a>- Free coffee club. Check directly with shop for details on coupons.</p><p><a href="http://www.wendys.com/news/signUp.jsp">Wendy’s</a> - Receive coupons for joining, on your birthday and throughout the year. </p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/wngstp/lp/join/join.asp">Wingstop</a> - Get free buffalo wings on your birthday.</p><p><a href="http://www.fishbowl.com/clt/zxbys/lp/join/join.asp">Zaxby’s</a> - Join their Z-Mail club and you’ll get a coupon for a free meal, whether or not it’s your birthday! Kids can <a href="http://www.zaxbys.com/bday.html">sign up here for their Kid Club</a> and get not only a free meal, but a free cookie on their birthday!</p><p><a href="http://www.ztejas.com/zmail.php?section=zmail">Z’ Tejas Southwestern Grill</a> - Join the Z'Club and receive a coupon for the month of your birthday.</p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-62543054957697723522009-02-27T04:57:00.000-08:002009-02-27T05:58:19.131-08:00Save Money on Insurance - Auto, Homeowner, Renter, Life<p><strong>Auto Insurance-</strong><a name="autoinsurance"></a> </p><ul><li>You can save money by calling at least four of the lowest-priced, licensed insurers to learn what they would charge you for the same coverage. Shop around again every few years to make sure your company is still the best deal.</li><br /><li>Raise your deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage. Make sure whatever amount you choose is something can can afford just in case you do have a claim. I don't want to hear you say "I didn't fix my car because I couldn't afford my deductible." You can also opt to drop this coverage completely if there's no lien holder. </li><br /><li>Each state has it's own rules on minimum liability coverage (for the other guy's car and medical bills, if you are at fault). You might want to lower your liability closer to this dollar amount.</li><br /><li>Make certain that your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one.</li><br /><li>Buy your auto and homeowner/renter policy from the same company - many gives multiple policy discounts.</li></ul><br /><a name="homeowner"></a><strong>Homeowner/Renter Insurance-</strong><br /><ul><li>Contact at least four insurers to learn what they would charge you for the same coverage. </li><br /><li>For homeowners, the "dwelling" coverage needs to be enough to cover rebuilding your home as it was. This is a construction price. It is not necessarily what your house is worth on the real estate market. These are two different numbers.</li><br /><li>"Contents" is the coverage for your stuff inside. It's the things you'd pack into a truck and take with you when you move. Basic policies pay "Actual Cash Value" which is the used value of an item. A 2 year old tv is worth more than a 10 year old tv, assuming similar technology and features. "Replacement cost" is the reasonable cost to replace something. Most policies will advance you the Actual Cash Value. Do you want Replacement Cost? Or are you willing to settle for Actual Cash Value? </li><br /><li>Make certain your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one. </li></ul><br /><br /><strong>Life Insurance-</strong><a name="lifeinsurance"></a><br /><ul><li>If you want insurance protection only, and not a savings and investment product, buy a term life insurance policy. Term policies are cheaper.</li><br /><li>Contact several companies for quotes first.</li><br /><li>Whole Life, Universal Life, or other cash value policies are more expensive. Get them only if you plan to hold onto them for at least 15 years. Once your policy is canceled (you switch to someone else) all those extra investment dollars are lost.</li><br /><li>Check the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website (<a class="fontblue100arialbold" title="National Association of Insurance Commissioners" href="http://www.naic.org/cis/">http://www.naic.org/cis/</a>) or your local library for information on the financial soundness of insurance companies.</li><li></li></ul><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEsH8jfovbPqKzw2eiWRLUBAb2GxxV4rX58PlQhIk73wGTg-js4mSExTyfj_mNiVd_OK1-7ELdUAD8dY4MW6WcB1p59FIIHFlqhazp43mRFraS8pU3HZb-0QidT782ADQ6NVRv8hMCwXT/s1600-h/dollars.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5307475944394891682" style="WIDTH: 280px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 220px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbEsH8jfovbPqKzw2eiWRLUBAb2GxxV4rX58PlQhIk73wGTg-js4mSExTyfj_mNiVd_OK1-7ELdUAD8dY4MW6WcB1p59FIIHFlqhazp43mRFraS8pU3HZb-0QidT782ADQ6NVRv8hMCwXT/s400/dollars.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">....</span></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-64053191022364605072009-02-24T05:20:00.000-08:002009-02-24T06:06:25.595-08:00Save Money On Automobile Gas, Repairs, Purchase and InsuranceHere's how to save money on gas, repairs, purchase/lease, and on insurance:<br /><br /><em><strong>New Cars</strong>-</em><a name="newcars"></a><br />You can save thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a car by selecting a model that combines a low purchase price with low depreciation, financing, insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and repair costs. <a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/"><em>Consumer Reports</em> </a>and other magazines usually have charts with this information. Once you have selected a model and options you are interested in, you can save hundreds of dollars by comparison shopping. Get price quotes from several dealers (over the phone or Internet) and let each know you are contacting the others. Also get written offers on your trade-in. Many years ago I went to three different dealers to buy the same car. Their selling prices were very close to eachother but my highest trade-in offer was $3500 more than my lowest offer! Remember there is no "cooling off" period on new car sales. Once you have signed a contract, you are obligated to buy the car.<br /><br /><strong><em>Used Cars-</em></strong><a name="usedcars"></a><br />Before buying any used car, compare the seller's asking price with the average retail price in a the <a href="http://www.kbb.com/kbb/UsedCars/default.aspx">Kelley Blue Book</a>, Redbook or other guide to car prices which can be found at many libraries, banks, and credit unions. Check your potential car out in <em><a href="http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/">Consumer Reports</a></em>. Does it have a good history in reliability and average upkeep cost?Have a mechanic you trust check the car, especially if the car is sold "as is." Consider purchasing a used car from an individual you know and trust. They are more likely than other sellers to charge a lower price and point out any problems with the car. Outright ask the seller to divulge any problems encountered in the last 5 years and what was done to fix them. Ask what shop they took their car to and visit that shop - ask to see a history of work done on that car.<br /><br /><strong><em>Auto Leasing</em></strong><a name="autoleasing"></a><strong><em>-<br /></em></strong>Don't decide to lease a car just because the payments are lower than on a traditional auto loan. The leasing payments are lower because you don't actually own the car.<br />Leasing a car is very complicated. You must consider the price of the car (known as the capitalized cost), your trade-in allowance, any down payment, monthly payments, various fees (excess mileage, excess "wear and tear," end-of- lease), and the cost of buying the car at the end of the lease. A valuable source of information about auto leasing can be found in <a class="fontblue100arialbold" title="Keys to Vehicle Leasing: A Consumer Guide" href="http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/leasing/" target="_blank">Keys to Vehicle Leasing: A Consumer Guide</a>, which is published by the Federal Reserve Board and Federal Trade Commission.<br /><br />Do a side-by-side comparison of buy vs. lease on the same car. What is the difference in monthly payments? Is it a big difference or a small one? What is the final cost if you keep the lease as compared to buying it outright. Your interest rates of buy vs. lease might make a difference. Call a few banks to get their loan rates. You usually get a discount from the bank you already have an account with but that's not a guarentee you'll get the best rate from them. Bring this info with you when you car shop. The dealer probably does business with a bank as well and might be able to beat your best rate, but not always.<br /><br />Do compare what you'll spend on gasoline in a year. Miles per gallon is important to consider if you do any distance driving! Also ask your insurance agent to give a rates for each of your options. One choice might cost you $1000 per year more than the other choice. Avoid surprises when it comes to insuring your new vehicle!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWOvB8LyrgPrdT7kHy2OfIM9ArC0h_8N-Df4wgbW407lQqqGmVp91Xltd6qa8Lo_zj8fsOFZ5vS42PXzuS7GcPxUmN2akGDTczeD3vMX2_fwUIcb4jSZACNUdMHTO3163RiIRhkEzFTUV/s1600-h/cars.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306361963357208194" style="WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 260px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhWOvB8LyrgPrdT7kHy2OfIM9ArC0h_8N-Df4wgbW407lQqqGmVp91Xltd6qa8Lo_zj8fsOFZ5vS42PXzuS7GcPxUmN2akGDTczeD3vMX2_fwUIcb4jSZACNUdMHTO3163RiIRhkEzFTUV/s400/cars.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><strong><em>Gasoline</em></strong><a name="gasoline"></a><strong><em>-<br /></em></strong>You can save hundreds of dollars a year by comparing prices at different stations, pumping gas yourself, and using the lowest-octane called for in your owner's manual. You can save up to $100 a year on gas by keeping your engine tuned and your tires inflated to their proper pressure. Some grocery stores are now giving out discounts if you buy at their gas stations. The store keeps track of dollars spent on food shopping. You swipe your grocery card at the pump to get the discount. I shop at Giant. My last fill-up got me a 70 cents per gallon discount!<br /><br /><strong><em>Car Repairs</em></strong><a name="carrepairs"></a><strong><em>-<br /></em></strong>Consumers lose billions of dollars each year on unneeded or poorly done car repairs. The most important step that you can take to save money on these repairs is to find a skilled, honest mechanic. Before you need repairs, look for a mechanic who, is certified and well established, has done good work for someone you know, and communicates well about repair options and costs. If something needs to be replaced, tell the mechanic you want to see the faulty/broken part first. Make them show you the crack (or whatever it is). There are some things you can do yourself and you'll pay alot less for the part and not have to pay labor - oil changes, air filter, and toping off anti-freeze, oil and wiper fluid. Just make sure you check them every month!<br /><a href="http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/money/66ways/content#top"></a><br /><em><strong>Auto Insurance-<br /></strong></em>You can save several hundred dollars a year by purchasing auto insurance from a licensed, low-price insurer. Call your state insurance department for a publication showing typical prices charged by different companies. You can also get comparisons from Progressive. Then call at least four of the lowest-priced, licensed insurers to learn what they would charge you for the same coverage. Talk to your agent or insurer about raising your deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage to at least $500 (if you can afford $500 should an accident happen) or, if you have an old car, dropping this coverage altogether. My car is old but my comp/collision is only $50 a year, so I'm keeping it. This can save you hundreds of dollars on insurance premiums.<br />Make certain that your new policy is in effect before dropping your old one. If you have renter's or homeowners insurance, you might get a discount on that or the auto policy if you go through the same insurer for both.<br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">,,,,,,,,</span>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-91157274725128037842009-02-20T12:27:00.000-08:002009-02-20T12:45:11.955-08:00State Beer Taxes Going Up!Here's just the facts on beer taxes-<br /><br />Oregon law makers want to raise the beer tax from $2.60 per barrel to $49.61 which is an 1,800% increase. That will cost beer drinkers 15 cents more per 12-ounce glass but the beer industry says it would more likely be $1.50 per glass.<br /><br />Idaho's plan to raise the tax on beer from 15 to 52 cents as well as the tax on wine has passed its initial committee review.<br /><br />New York Governor David Patterson wants to raise the state tax on beer from 11 cents to 24 cents per gallon. Now there is speculation that Anheuser-Busch would close its Lysander brewery if this goes through.<br /><br />A total of 24 states are considering higher alcohol taxes.<br /><br />Here's some info on the flip side:<br /><br />Wisconsin's beer tax hasn't gone up there in 40 years and will stay that way. There is no talk of increasing it's beer tax.<br /><br />Missouri beer drinkers also seem safe for an increase.<br /><br />Wyoming has the lowest beer tax of all the states.<br /><br />The beer industry is lobbying for a reduction in the federal beer tax, jumping on the "stimulus" bandwagon.<br /><br />In Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Texas, Alabama and Minnesota, the "blue laws" that ban the sale of alcohol on Sunday might be dropped.<br /><br />A Nebraska legislator suggested that tourism could increase in his state if people could legally drink beer in state parks. Of course, public drunkeness in state parks will increase , too.<br /><br />Utah is contemplating changing its unique liquor laws by dropping the "club" system in bars.<br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Lx6T6YsmD_ND6kdjsYAPpZZsZhtazEjqn3Q6zTOkmO5c6xi1EJRj97a6Snztba615pCeDSviFDZ-xfdchnfdch-xDcXoupVZRmvNLlMHwCNWVcSSE817lR6lYEwk-VmoHi3DnPfIDCUs/s1600-h/beer-styles.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304982766568184162" style="WIDTH: 311px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 314px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Lx6T6YsmD_ND6kdjsYAPpZZsZhtazEjqn3Q6zTOkmO5c6xi1EJRj97a6Snztba615pCeDSviFDZ-xfdchnfdch-xDcXoupVZRmvNLlMHwCNWVcSSE817lR6lYEwk-VmoHi3DnPfIDCUs/s400/beer-styles.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-34061140459199343172009-02-19T07:17:00.000-08:002009-02-19T07:40:30.210-08:00Obama's $75 Billion Help for ForeclosuresObama's plan is an attempt to stop the wave of foreclosures and allow homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth to refinance. The plan was announced during his stop in Mesa, Arizona.<br /><br />Obama wants to make it easier for people to rework or refinance their mortgages. The President said the plan, "will give millions of families resigned to financial ruin a chance to rebuild … prevent the worst consequences of this crisis from wreaking even greater havoc on the economy. And by bringing down the foreclosure rate, it will help to shore up housing prices for everyone."<br /><br />This plan will allow up to 5 million people to refinance their mortgages through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, both of which are privately held companies but under government control. The plan has three points: to help homeowners refinance; to help stabilize the housing market aimed at reaching up to 4 million at-risk homeowners; and to drive down mortgage rates. Government money is offered to entice homeowners, mortgage companies and mortgage investors to rework loans.<br /><br />"This will allow millions of families stuck with loans at a higher rate to refinance," Obama said, "and the estimated cost to taxpayers would be roughly zero; while Fannie and Freddie would receive less money in payments, this would be balanced out by a reduction in defaults and foreclosures."<br /><br />The White House also wants bankruptcy judges to rework the terms of mortgages in court. The banking industry has fought bitterly against such a law for years but Obama wants that attitude to change. The President's plan is not meant to help speculators. It is for keeping "hard pressed homeowners" in their homes.<br /><br />The lending industry needs "clear and consistent guidelines for loan modifications" which are necessary to speed up the process of making loans more affordable and fair. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will use these new guidelines for the loans they own or guarantee. Also, companies receiving government money "will be required to implement loan modification plans consistent with Treasury guidance."<br /><br />The plan offers incentives to get banks to modify at-risk loans before the homeowner gets behind in payments. They will receive an up-front payment of $1,000 for each eligible loan modification and $500 to banks and mortgage investors $1,500 if at-risk loans are modified before borrowers fall behind. The government said it would also help pay down the principal of certain mortgages by up to $1,000 a year for up to five years if the borrower hasn't missed any payments. This, of course, doesn't help homeowners who are already in trouble.<br /><br />For a loan to qualify for modifications, lenders would need to bring the monthly mortgage payment down to 38% of a borrower's monthly income. Do the math - see how your monthly mortgage payment compares to 38% of your before-tax monthly income. The government would also match further reductions in the interest rate down to 31%.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-2804725632456957082009-02-17T06:30:00.000-08:002009-02-20T12:47:35.840-08:00How to Save Money on Your Phone BillIf you still have a landline plus also have a cell phone, call your landline provider and drop the toll and long distance coverage asap. From now on, use your cell phone for these calls. I did this - it saved me $25 per month just for the "honor" of having the service plus another 30 cents a minute whenever we called our friend Mike who only lived 10 miles away. Also, some of my friends' cell phone numbers were considered "toll" by the phone company.<br /><br />Now call several phone companies that provide landline service in your area to find the cheapest BASIC calling plan (no toll or long distance coverage). Also consider a bundled package that covers your internet connection.<br /><br />You might want to opt out of inside wire maintenance, caller ID, and use of the phone company's answering machine. Compare the cost of their answering machine vs. using your own. How much do you pay in a year for that feature. How much does it cost to buy a new, inexpensive one? You do the math. For caller ID, I just listen to the voice that starts to leave a message. I pick up if I am interested - alot cheaper than paying for caller ID. Besides, you run to the run to see who's calling anyway!<br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8vDdkjXC9SuFcUnRTXO_MJxlIZHE9YaNLno9kC7FfnXTboCmC13HPvsVi8T-ZY7rbdbFivlIqx3fyX1hC8VzF0uB-000i4WB8-SjKXAIodBPJjR4RXN4qNlRcBd9hwIc1X5T-NvLwPkw/s1600-h/cell+phone+ear.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303779976824138130" style="WIDTH: 217px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX8vDdkjXC9SuFcUnRTXO_MJxlIZHE9YaNLno9kC7FfnXTboCmC13HPvsVi8T-ZY7rbdbFivlIqx3fyX1hC8VzF0uB-000i4WB8-SjKXAIodBPJjR4RXN4qNlRcBd9hwIc1X5T-NvLwPkw/s400/cell+phone+ear.png" border="0" /></a></p><br />Some people get rid of their landlines completely. Just make sure you are on top of keeping your phone charged. One thing to remember - if you are at work, don't answer your cell phone. If the call is important, the caller will leave a message that you can check on your lunch break or when you get home. Don't become become a slave to your ringing phone. A true emergency can be phoned into the business's main desk.<br /><br />How often do you use your cell phone? Prepaid wireless plans have higher per minute rates and fees but may be a better option (compared to monthly connection fees) if you use the phone only occasionally.<br /><br />Review your cell phone bill for the past few months. How many minutes are you allowed to make? How many did you actually use? Perhaps calling the provider for a plan that offers fewer minutes can save you some money.<br /><br />Text messaging is expensive. Consider a plan that allows less TM or try to wean yourself off of it. Go for something that cuts you off rather than surcharges super amounts of money for going over your minutes allowed.<br /><br />Do not ask the operator to make a call for you. Do not agree to allow the phone company to dial a number after you've called information to get a number. They will charge you. Do not fall for this convenience. Using an operator to place the call can cost you up to $10 extra. To save money on information calls, look the number up on the Internet or in your phone book.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">.</span>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-27056564416031421742009-02-15T13:12:00.000-08:002009-02-17T07:08:18.031-08:00Toyota Cuts Production and Executive CompensationToyota is cutting North American production, cutting executive compensation up to 30 percent and offering buyouts to about 18,000 workers. They will cut production days at some U.S. factories in April — from two to eight days according to the amount of inventory at the particular plant. The change will begin in April at its auto assembly plants in Indiana, Kentucky and Texas, as well as auto-parts factories in Alabama, Missouri and West Virginia.<br /><br />Toyota is also starting shorter work weeks at some plants. Hourly employees would work four hours less per week. Unionized plants in the U.S. and Mexico will <em>not</em> be affected, however.<br /><br />“We’ve taken responsible, step-by-step actions to address this issue in recent months, and we hope the new measures will help us adjust while protecting jobs,” said VP Jim Wiseman for Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America.<br /><br />The 30 percent pay drop for executives includes a 5 percent salary cut and the eliminated bonus. Bonuses will be eliminated for all salaried and executive employees which accounts for about 10 percent of Toyota’s 30,000 manufacturing jobs in North America. Production team bonuses will be reduced rather than omitted.<br /><br />The buyouts also will not be offered to workers at a Canadian plant, nor unionized plants in the U.S. or Mexico. The buyout package consists of 10 weeks of pay, plus two weeks of pay for every year of service, plus $20,000. It will be the company’s first North America-wide buyout offer.<br /><br />Toyota will also eliminate salary increases for the “foreseeable future.” Toyota expects its first annual net loss since 1950. The company is in the process of eliminating 5,300 contract jobs in Japan.<br /><br />Toyota is grappling with plunging demand worldwide, especially in the U.S., and a strong yen, which cuts overseas profits of Japanese exporters like Toyota.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-28352442100035223942009-02-15T08:55:00.000-08:002009-02-15T13:58:50.210-08:00Hot Naked Chicks of All Colors With Guns!<div><div>Do you think the title of this post will increase my traffic? Just having some fun...</div><div></div><div></div><br /><div><strong>Come see naked, hot chicks, chicks of all colors, chicks with guns, chicks with mouths open, threesomes and more. Color photos! Young chicks in groups:</strong> </div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtLH98Jfo6RGtiG4Yd_Qq0LUdkcogTnQJSlBx6k_ctkAfOyI_GVB0pEYJteiVv0pfNrFdOnoRs-xjfi6HeNRhfhYcfvmEEj6ZIzDFnVrTVJjn2pW0kEfZUX59eqtBnKWD2Nph8Q1ABdU-/s1600-h/chicks+with+guns.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303075083923721986" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 237px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtLH98Jfo6RGtiG4Yd_Qq0LUdkcogTnQJSlBx6k_ctkAfOyI_GVB0pEYJteiVv0pfNrFdOnoRs-xjfi6HeNRhfhYcfvmEEj6ZIzDFnVrTVJjn2pW0kEfZUX59eqtBnKWD2Nph8Q1ABdU-/s320/chicks+with+guns.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXglsdt0Vb_TL7gw7OO3Lu2QBsAyiRz2nj_3gx7ck6eM8BFT3jOGctF5TigMx4s8qnAHZINAHRcTBaFZ3iD49hxRpBzvXbpnS_phyKDitrOWTiDAc1LvqMCMVNl1vIDgNN1u7GnHnMfW0m/s1600-h/chicks+with+mouths+open.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303075167014891746" style="WIDTH: 318px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 263px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXglsdt0Vb_TL7gw7OO3Lu2QBsAyiRz2nj_3gx7ck6eM8BFT3jOGctF5TigMx4s8qnAHZINAHRcTBaFZ3iD49hxRpBzvXbpnS_phyKDitrOWTiDAc1LvqMCMVNl1vIDgNN1u7GnHnMfW0m/s320/chicks+with+mouths+open.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOerZK_FUHG6UdjZhaWQ8vkHejdDORs4konFvjFFAki5CvoodI7qy_2xq7pQkre2uiuqOY0JNSVM2pUbThFHeCd4y4ysGCmbaJM0FYQXQi0qde3An8XnD1nHryBDJKHnmO5JUElAgIBiK/s1600-h/chicks+naked.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303075000132807538" style="WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 244px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOerZK_FUHG6UdjZhaWQ8vkHejdDORs4konFvjFFAki5CvoodI7qy_2xq7pQkre2uiuqOY0JNSVM2pUbThFHeCd4y4ysGCmbaJM0FYQXQi0qde3An8XnD1nHryBDJKHnmO5JUElAgIBiK/s320/chicks+naked.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcPOTVCjQxqq2d3EtneubP6zBtnhMbZmdvL2wvW3sPJOkCAzfmDJTFu9dithskLcpsz2hITcgKUlLFAJsaz09xcHJIIzNCglDvuSHfnolMivCXiJZiPM1JBtzwVjljdzWc_EURQFJ0KZZ/s1600-h/chicks+all+colors.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303074829846676738" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 231px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYcPOTVCjQxqq2d3EtneubP6zBtnhMbZmdvL2wvW3sPJOkCAzfmDJTFu9dithskLcpsz2hITcgKUlLFAJsaz09xcHJIIzNCglDvuSHfnolMivCXiJZiPM1JBtzwVjljdzWc_EURQFJ0KZZ/s320/chicks+all+colors.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOerZK_FUHG6UdjZhaWQ8vkHejdDORs4konFvjFFAki5CvoodI7qy_2xq7pQkre2uiuqOY0JNSVM2pUbThFHeCd4y4ysGCmbaJM0FYQXQi0qde3An8XnD1nHryBDJKHnmO5JUElAgIBiK/s1600-h/chicks+naked.jpg"></a></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-zF6Ks0sC1-R-gWobbMjnl_uEghww4OH0pe0sYX2ByB9CUY0djMLkBJENankJzKDNjK8YVB-cMp7UzNzg-qVqU7ubno_RHFvOklEmJISLUFpc8GVXyTpyoYW8CY0sXdERMEhotVSU5GS/s1600-h/chicks+lined+up.bmp"></a></div></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-51904889218974455552009-02-12T05:32:00.000-08:002009-02-13T07:16:34.517-08:00Obama's 2009 Stimulus Bill - Update Feb 12th.Lawmakers agreed on a $789 billion plan for government spending and tax cuts. It was a compromise between everyone, hoping to save/create 3.5 million jobs. Hopes are that President Obama will sign it by Valentine's Day.<br /><br />“We had to nip and tuck and cut here and cut there and modify here and shape there,” said Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus. “We had a long way to go to get to $789 billion, believe me.”<br /><br />One of Obama’s proposals, a plan to provide a $500 payroll tax cut to individuals and $1,000 to families, got pared down. Under the compromise, there will be $400 for individuals and $800 for families in tax cuts. Retirees and disabled veterans who don’t pay payroll taxes will receive a one-time only payment of $250.<br /><br />Lawmakers had to compromise a proposed $35 billion plan to increase home sales. The Senate wanted to double a $7,500 tax credit for homebuyers but under the compromise plan, that credit would only be increased to $8000. This, of course, does not help people already in homes.<br /><br />A proposal to boost the auto industry through tax breaks to new car buyers, to write off interest on their loans, stands at $9 billion. I think auto and homeowner interest should be write offs, but only one each.<br /><br />A proposed business tax cut that would have allowed companies to convert losses into tax refunds was almost entirely axed because it would have cost $67.5 billion over the next two years. Too much money.<br /><br />Lawmakers dropped provisions that required companies accepting money from the government’s Troubled Asset Relief Program to repay the cash portions of bonuses topping $100,000. Too bad. That should have stayed.<br /><br />The bill will spend $59 billion to increase aid to the unemployed by extending unemployment benefits by 20 weeks and increasing weekly benefits by $25. The subsidy to help unemployed people continue buying health insurance from their former employers will be increased.<br /><br />There is $29 billion for highway construction projects, $7 billion to expand access to broadband and $11 billion to renovate the nation’s electrical grid. There will also be $15.6 billion for Pell college tuition grants, $8 billion for rail projects, $5 billion to weatherize low-income homes (to save money spent on heating and cooling) and $4.5 billion to make federal buildings more energy efficient as well.<br /><br />There will be “Buy American” rules for materials used in construction that are able to avoid violating existing international trade agreements.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ffffff;">.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2D0yx9Dec9A0aDfcUKP6JEwXTUyErHUgppKFHJrKBwpGKHk2MmS8eokPN0cdy5zASOS49ZKCXS3lBduG1KG-_q1jUFtQ3nE0JPuyM7OW7JQShFl-PFcr4p3Sktes4pL3l6KDtO0_r-5E2/s1600-h/obama.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301908875048729394" style="WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2D0yx9Dec9A0aDfcUKP6JEwXTUyErHUgppKFHJrKBwpGKHk2MmS8eokPN0cdy5zASOS49ZKCXS3lBduG1KG-_q1jUFtQ3nE0JPuyM7OW7JQShFl-PFcr4p3Sktes4pL3l6KDtO0_r-5E2/s400/obama.bmp" border="0" /></a></span>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-19674574034886984312009-02-06T06:28:00.000-08:002009-02-06T07:05:30.713-08:00Cheap Date Ideas<div align="left">Visit a museum or art gallery or show, especially a free one. Bring your own lunch, eat outside if weather permits.<br /><br />Pick out two movie DVD's, pop a huge bowl of corn and get some soda so that you can spend all night cuddled up on the couch without spending a dime.<br /><br />Invite your chocoholic friends over for a poker game. Admission is one unopened bag of Hershey's Kisses (to make sure everyone brings fresh ones). Once everyone is there, open your bags and each candy is a poker chip.<br /><br />Go for a scenic drive through the mountains, along the beach, across farm land. See the leaves change, look at Christmas lights, watch the first spring flowers.<br /><br />Visit a Saturn dealership on a Saturday. Most have free barbeques going - hamburgers, hot dogs and/or chicken plus chips and soda. All free. Call ahead to confirm the one you've chosen is having a cookout and what time they start up the grill. Then look at cars and have a free lunch.<br /><br />Drive to an unusual or historic town you've never been to and walk around, visit the old section, pop into quaint little shops. My picks - Solvang and Santa Barbara in California, Peddler's Village and New Hope in Pennsylvania.<br /><br />If it is nice out, spread out a blanket and look for stars. Bring a map of constellations to help you identify what you are looking at. Check online to see when special events occur such as comets or meteor showers. Get away from city lights.<br /><br />Visit open houses in a wealthy neighborhood, even the new constructions. Have fun looking at the opulent and extravagant houses and steal their decor ideas.<br /><br />Go swimming in a lake, river or the ocean. Don't forget the picnic lunch and music for afterward!<br /><br />Go people watching at the mall. In advance, make up a list of unusual things and compete to see who sees more mohawks, fashion faux pas, age groups, crying babies etc...<br /><br />Go to a playground and try out the swings and the merry go round. Perfect opportunity for a picnic lunch and kite flying.<br /><br />Watch the sunrise or sunset together. See if you can be at the beach or on a mountaintop or somewhere the sun touches the natural horizon (not buildings). Bring your cameras. Breakfast on the beach is awesome! Bring some fruit, bagels and a thermos of coffee.<br /><br />Visit a public garden, botanical garden, or even a very well stocked nursery. Bring your cameras and take lots of pictures of flowers and butterflies.<br /><br />Visit an old cemetery and do grave rubbings. Visit the one that has your own relatives, too.<br /><br />Go for a bike ride or rollerblading together. Go kite flying.<br /><br />Go fishing. Kiss each fish before you throw it back! A great camera opportunity.<br /><br />Go to the pet store and look at the dogs and cats together. Some PetSmart stores have cats and dogs from local shelters displayed on Saturdays. Give them some of your lovin'.<br /><br />Arrange a group potluck date where each couple brings a dish they prepared together. Meet at someone's home, the beach, a park.<br /><br />Take your date on a tour of your hometown. Show where you lived, pop in and say "hi" to neighbors, swing by your schools.<br /><br />If it is snowing, have a snowball fight, build perverted or comical snow people and critters, go sledding.<br /><br />Find a puzzle that you really like, put it together and then use puzzle glue so you can keep it!<br /><br />Take your boom box somewhere and dance! Visit a beautiful place like a park or botanical garden. Invite friends to come along. Slow romantic music and faster tempo ones, too!</div><div align="center"><br /><br />*******************************************<br /></div><a title="Relationship and Dating Advice" style="BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 0px" href="http://www.planjam.com/weblog"></a>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-70711317747387778832009-02-02T05:23:00.000-08:002009-02-02T06:19:57.341-08:00Free Coupons - Food & Grocery<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgNEfk1taa3u8o5dUzY1fVenuoW7MTTUYf5w7c119g-anUlIHVDnVU-RrG5tvukIOOSRZn3SM20WDcgzcY554NTx-Wzeh0YqW00Rr2nRZpQm8OhzH3KjZuCfSUUm3e8iT_UCwJGBItqZv/s1600-h/grocery-food.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298203926274771506" style="WIDTH: 248px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgNEfk1taa3u8o5dUzY1fVenuoW7MTTUYf5w7c119g-anUlIHVDnVU-RrG5tvukIOOSRZn3SM20WDcgzcY554NTx-Wzeh0YqW00Rr2nRZpQm8OhzH3KjZuCfSUUm3e8iT_UCwJGBItqZv/s400/grocery-food.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The below links are to grocery stores that give out online coupons. Check them out!</div><br /><br /><strong>Specific Stores</strong>:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.bashas.com/ecoupons.php">Basha's</a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.genuardis.com/ifl/grocery/Smart-Savings?SR=sr2sc210ms20374mb2885pi45ai37">Genuardi's </a></div><br /><div><a href="http://giant.coupons.smartsource.com/Web/index.aspx?Link=NK7WYLCCBSH3Q">Giant</a></div><br /><a href="http://www.kroger.com/in_store/Pages/coupon_landing.aspx">Kroger</a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.publix.com/">Publix</a></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.ralphs.com/in_store/Pages/coupon_landing.aspx">Ralph's</a></div><br /><a href="http://www.safeway.com/">Safeway</a><br /><br /><div><strong>Product Coupons:</strong></div><br /><p><a href="http://www.annistonstar.com/coupons/as-index.htm">Anniston Star Coupons</a></p><p><a href="http://print.coupons.com/couponweb/Offers.">Coupons dot Com</a></p><a href="http://www.grocerysavingtips.com/grocerystores.htm">Grocery Saving </a><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#3333ff;">M</span><a href="http://www.mysavings.com/grocery-coupons-printable-free.asp">y Savings</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ppgazette.com/">Penny Pincher Gazette</a></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-38092039185231754442009-02-02T05:21:00.001-08:002009-02-02T06:21:39.696-08:00Free Coupons - All Kinds of Stuff!Here's a list of sites that give out free coupons. Check them out!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.budgetmom.com/">Budget Mom</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.coolsavings.com/home">Cool Savings<br /></a><br /><a href="http://www.couponalbum.com/">Coupon Album</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.couponcabin.com/">Coupon Cabin</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.couponmom.com/">Coupon Mom</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.couponsurfer.com/">Coupon Surfer<br /></a><br /><a href="http://dealspl.us/coupons">Deals Plus</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.entirelycoupons.com/coupons-offer/">Entirely Coupons</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.eversave.com/Campaign_Reg-Reg80.jsp?cid=85&sourceid=23471&siteid=Content-shopping&gclid=CMXTxtj2vZgCFQu-GgodiiGubQ">Eversave</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.fabuloussavings.com/">Fabulous Savings</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.freecoupons.com/free-stuff-coupons/">Free Coupons</a><br /><p><a href="http://www.freeflys.com/FreeSamples.php">Free Flys</a> </p><p><a href="http://www.mycoupons.com/">My Coupons</a></p><a href="http://discounts.shopathome.com/Specials.aspx">Shop at Home</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWWkKy3Pk4wvsLTWRqCW855R7IY1SbGJlAf7cQIgEH9piKx3GoDP0MpZY-vgjgbfCXFFt0I_HikWZc7jInCjcp9SAizgCGwL7437jS0Jf6czHxS19UTy7iJrxH-MyutZbUxNsEOmpP6_t/s1600-h/coupons.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298204748865462530" style="WIDTH: 308px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 243px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWWkKy3Pk4wvsLTWRqCW855R7IY1SbGJlAf7cQIgEH9piKx3GoDP0MpZY-vgjgbfCXFFt0I_HikWZc7jInCjcp9SAizgCGwL7437jS0Jf6czHxS19UTy7iJrxH-MyutZbUxNsEOmpP6_t/s400/coupons.jpg" border="0" /></a>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-64644499075523789112009-01-30T21:13:00.000-08:002009-01-30T21:42:31.895-08:00Use Less Gasoline and Save Money!Stop doing jackrabbit starts. Proceed slowly and gently. Let the weight of your foot push down on the accelerator rather than using your muscles. Drive like you're in no hurry. Sudden starts ruin fuel economy.<br /><br />Slow down. Besides avoiding speeding tickets, slowing down from 65 to 55mph can squeeze out an extra few miles per gallon.<br /><br />Come to gentle stops. Take your foot off the accelerator and glide awhile before having to use the brakes. The stops should be gentle, not hard.<br /><br />You will find that you will feel more relaxed after a week of practicing the above hints.<br /><br />Lighter weight cars get better gas mileage. Don't use your car as a storage bin. Get rid of the weight.<br /><br />Don't waste time and gas on unnecessary trips. Combine two or more errands into one loop rather than separate trips. Make sure your stores are open. Make sure you know where you are going. I live by Mapquest. My husband lives by his GPS.<br /><br />Carpool with a friend or neighbor to the grocery store, work or school. Take turns.<br /><br />Don't work your airconditioner so hard. Do things to help lighten it's workload. Windshield reflectors will keep the inside temperature down while your car is parked. Towels thrown over the dash, seats and steering wheel will protect them from absorbing heat. Regularly replace the AC air filter. A clogged filter increases the load on your system and thus your fuel efficiency.<br /><br />Get regular tune-ups, oil changes and tire rotations. Make sure your tires are properly inflated. All affect how much gas your car eats up. Taking care of tires maximizes their life, too.<br /><br />Solar Electric Vehicles manufactures solar panel systems that can be installed on the roof of your hybrid. Gathering sunlight and converting it into electricity, the panel lets a hybrid run for up to 20 miles per day in pure electric mode, netting a purported 29 percent increase in fuel economy.<br /><br />If you already own a hybrid vehicle, conversion kits are available that add a battery pack and some extra computing power and can be plugged into a home socket. Fully charged, they will run on electric power alone for up to 40 miles.<br />.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-62005154357568388662009-01-30T05:34:00.000-08:002009-01-30T05:55:34.889-08:00Make Money Blogging With Chitika Advertising<span style="color:#ffffff;"> .</span><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7CjCUu7ym-riuoC1aEGWR1OL0BxzvuaJRMzcC71OhVOmIdD0gKavbG5B_Str5TNSR0XUQQtlUxnaAB32QWvsco8Gg4Ni0UwW4oObQ7VLF_wuKQfRMjNLbzRKXCGoTeu2SIAIPl0FGF6M/s1600-h/bananaevent.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297084748912119618" style="WIDTH: 202px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 163px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn7CjCUu7ym-riuoC1aEGWR1OL0BxzvuaJRMzcC71OhVOmIdD0gKavbG5B_Str5TNSR0XUQQtlUxnaAB32QWvsco8Gg4Ni0UwW4oObQ7VLF_wuKQfRMjNLbzRKXCGoTeu2SIAIPl0FGF6M/s400/bananaevent.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><br />Founded in 2003, Chitika (pronounced CHIH-tih-ka), is a full-service on-line advertising network serving over 2 billion monthly impressions across more than 30,000 websites. They are 100% compatible with Adsense.</div><br /><div>When someone does an internet search and then clicks on your website or blog, an ad related to the search will pop up on your site. Your regular readers, who visit your site directly, do not get the ad. Only the people who do searches get the ad - this is because they are statistically more likely to click on ads. Click <a href="http://chitika.com/how-does-chitika-premium-work.php">HERE </a>for a short video tutorial from Chitika.<br /><a href="http://chitika.com/family.php"></a><br />The best websites and blogs for Chitika are ones related to products. If you are interested in applying for Chitika advertising, click <a href="http://chitika.com/publishers.php">HERE</a> and get started. Good luck!</div><br /><div>.</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-49199744739563633662009-01-28T14:31:00.000-08:002009-02-19T07:42:44.329-08:00USA Postage Rates Might Increase in May 2009The US Postal Service is having money problems, the worst ever in their history. Stamps are allowed to go up in May 2009 by a maximum of 2 cents. If you are buying stamps in April or May, don't buy too many at the current rate or you'll find yourself back at the post office having to buy a bunch of 1 or 2 cent completer stamps.<br /><br />They are also considered cutting mail delivery to 5 days a week instead of the current 6 days.<br /><br />See the attached msn.com news link:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28897426/?GT1=43001">http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28897426/?GT1=43001</a><br /><br /><strong><em><span style="color:#cc0000;">UPDATE 2/15/09 - Told ya so! Stamps are going up 2 cents in May!<br /></span></em></strong><br /><br />.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-38469144522914009912009-01-27T05:20:00.000-08:002009-01-27T05:30:28.832-08:00De Beers Diamonds Class Action LawsuitIf you bought any diamonds or jewelry with diamonds in it between 1994 and 2006, read this:<br /><br />In 2001, lawsuits against De Beers were filed in state and federal courts claiming that De Beers unlawfully monopolized the supply of diamonds, conspired to fix, raise, and control diamond prices, and issued false and misleading advertising.<br /><br />The Settlement Agreement provides that $22.5 million be distributed to the Direct Purchaser Class, and that $272.5 Million will be distributed to the Indirect Purchaser Class. It is not possible to tell how much, if any, each claimant will receive before the Claims Administrator finishes processing all claims.<br /><br />Here is a link to the lawsuit's website: <a href="https://diamondsclassaction.com/">https://diamondsclassaction.com/</a><br /><br /><p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1vqJjZRkIXpvBmBhHSvEiRWQInHts4RZSEMIYARcmYiboORFQp9r1LUitgVkKT9MgyhN4LEUVcGbOf1gZXice3FQ1EY6Q686f4Gf6OYQNVcjVJnat6Nbp-l1c5bLOtfuALhV16IiDW_O/s1600-h/loose_diamonds.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295964895383248610" style="WIDTH: 244px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 196px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1vqJjZRkIXpvBmBhHSvEiRWQInHts4RZSEMIYARcmYiboORFQp9r1LUitgVkKT9MgyhN4LEUVcGbOf1gZXice3FQ1EY6Q686f4Gf6OYQNVcjVJnat6Nbp-l1c5bLOtfuALhV16IiDW_O/s320/loose_diamonds.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-10544191710698056102009-01-27T05:09:00.000-08:002009-01-28T14:27:51.167-08:00Cash Back Credit CardsI have a VISA card from Chase Bank. My interest rate is very low, there's no annual fee and I earn cash back. I pay my bill in full every month, not paying any interest. So they aren't making any money off me. Besides regular purchases, some of my utilities are automatically charged onto my card. Because of the cash back, I haven't had to visit an ATM in a few years!<br /><br />There are lots of credit cards out there that give cash back but you have to be careful. Some have you pay an annual fee. Some charge high interest rates which is a problem if you carry balances into the next month. Try to find one that doesn't cost you anything.<br /><br />That being said, here's a website that lets you compare credit card terms. Pick the one that's best for you and start earning your cash back.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.credit-cards-resource.com/consumer/rewards/cash-back/browse/?path=ceg-cbkg-mps-103e1a&r=1">http://www.credit-cards-resource.com/consumer/rewards/cash-back/browse/?path=ceg-cbkg-mps-103e1a&r=1</a><br /><br />.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5002786000499395322.post-3750604149644448102009-01-21T11:27:00.000-08:002009-01-28T14:26:57.720-08:00Ebay and BarbieMy daughter cleaned out her movie collection over the weekend. There's a pretty decent market for Barbie items so I decided to put her Barbie DVD's up for auction on Ebay. Rather than bother with listing them individually, I set them up as a collection. By doing this my target market is the younger girls who don't have very many or no Barbie movies yet. Moms and grandmothers will be the ones who are most likely to buy so I put the listing of titles in pink and purple to appeal to the little girl in them. (I would never use such colors for something manly like a jackhammer!)<br /><br />I did some research - these movies go for $15 to $20 at the stores. Obviously I am not going to get new prices but I put this info in the item description to remind people of how much value they are getting. I also did Ebay research and found out that the average Barbie DVD goes for $9. I mentioned that in my listing to show people what to expect once the bidding (knock on wood) starts.<br /><br />To hopefully cause some excitement to the first few bidders, I started the bidding at $20 which is only $2 per DVD. Much cheaper than the historical average selling price and way cheaper than buying new. Even when you factor in the shipping, it's a deal.<br /><br />Speaking of shipping, I like to give my winning bidders a choice of shipping options. The cheapest and slowest is Media or Parcel Post. Media is for books, movies, music etc. The fastest is Priority Mail. The winning bidder pays for the shipping, not the seller.<br /><br />I recycle boxes, packing peanuts and bubble wrap. There are also gift shops that I can visit that will give me boxes and excess packing peanuts for free. The only things that I end up buying are packing tape and bubble wrap.<br /><br />I took a few pictures of the movies against a neutral background. The photo came out kind of dark so I lightened it, then saturated the colors back to being pretty close to the original. The first picture on an Ebay listing is free. I would never put something up for auction without a picture. Bidders need something to see which helps pique their interest and most bidders are wary of buying something sight unseen.<br /><br />The fee I am paying Ebay is 35 cents for the listing which is based upon the initial bidding price that I set. If my DVD's sell, Ebay will also get a very small commission. There are different percents for different final selling prices so I can't say what they would be until it's all over.<br /><br />Nowadays, Ebayers have to have Paypal accounts which is fine with me. I have an account and have been Ebaying for a few years now with no problem.<br /><br />So, if you happen to be in the market for Barbie DVD's, check me out on Ebay - my ID is 4mervlygurl and the item number of this auction is 190281744039<br /><br />I will add to this article once the excitement (again, knock on wood) begins!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91hbqowALxznXM2-SuL34gcdwIJIckTzHIpDKf9DejsJl1NtC500t3qJ-vJ_ecCSA_jCE27GOWbDNOJTg37Xcb19hU3oNwBMgNSXKRFtXXrxjZvQPCS6N4-4HuTtbKupsGvSbLS2aXay2/s1600-h/barbie+dvd+movies+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293830931885846002" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91hbqowALxznXM2-SuL34gcdwIJIckTzHIpDKf9DejsJl1NtC500t3qJ-vJ_ecCSA_jCE27GOWbDNOJTg37Xcb19hU3oNwBMgNSXKRFtXXrxjZvQPCS6N4-4HuTtbKupsGvSbLS2aXay2/s320/barbie+dvd+movies+006.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br />Progress of auction:<br /><br />Weds - put item up for auction, bidding will be open for one week<br /><br />Thurs - got one bid already plus 3 more potential bidders are "watching." Right now the winning price is $20.<br /><br />Fri - a second bidder has joined in. The price is now up to $26. Still have 3 "watchers."<br /><br />Sat - no new bids but the number of "watchers" has increased to 6.<br /><br />Sun - there are now 3 bidders and the price is up to $31. There are now 10 "watchers."<br /><br />Mon - no change<br /><br />Tues - up to 4 bidders, price is now $33, and "watchers" has increased to 14<br /><br />Weds - ended up with 8 bidders and the final selling price was $71.00<br /><br />.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03797298427790034910noreply@blogger.com0