Archive for the ‘Money’ Category
How Do You Ensure You’re Not Being Ripped Off on Appliance Repairs?
Kitchen Ceiling + Water = Bad
A few years ago (5 1/2 to be exact), our washing machine overflowed. We discovered this when our daughter walked into our bedroom and announced, rather matter-of-factly, that water was coming through the kitchen ceiling.
The Front Loader
After the obligatory “dance” with ServePro and the insurance company, we replaced the offending unit with a (quite lovely) front loading washer from Sears. it’s great for washing clothes. And cell phones. And pens.
The Conversation…
Seems one of the aforementioned objects has done some damage. I know this because the spin cycle now sounds like a shuttle launch, there are pieces of shredded plastic in the pockets of my favorite khakis. So, ‘who ya gonna call’, and how do you make sure you’re not being ripped off?
The Podcast…
Podcast: Download
Should You Get Inside Wire Coverage From The Phone Company?
Wiring Worries
This is one of those things that drives me nuts. The phone company offers this insurance for “inside wiring”. It’s a few bucks a month, and the pitch is that it would cover a potentially big issue. Or would it?
Worth Protecting?
I personally think it’s the term. “Inside wiring” just sounds so… vital.
The Conversation..
When you consider the plummeting popularity of the “land line”, I’m wondering if even considering insurance for inside wiring is ridiculous. Your thoughts?
The Podcast…
Podcast: Download
The Printer Ink Dilemma
Future Ink Shock
You buy a printer for ninety nine bucks, and you’re convinced that you just got an amazing deal. Then you run out of ink. (Is there such a thing as “ink shock”?)
Too Many Choices
These days you can buy a printer that advertises lower ink costs, but how do you know they’re telling the truth? You’ve also got those ink cartridge refill services – but are they worth it?
The Conversation…
Let us know how you handle “the printer ink dilemma” by entering your thoughts in the comments section…
The Podcast…
Podcast: Download
What Should You Do When You Get Into A Fender Bender?
Your Day Has Just Taken A Turn For The Worse
I’ve been in fender benders, and the accident itself can be the least of your worries. For starters, you’ve just signed up for a new part time job, and it’s not a job you want: you’re about to spend a lot of time in a “rental”.
And Then There’s The Phone Calls
You’ll also be calling insurance companies, the local police department, and your new best friend, the guy at the repair shop. He’s got the power in the relationship, so sooner or later he’ll stop returning your calls.
The Conversation…
So, cautious driver, what say ye? Should you speak with the other driver? Should you move your vehicle before you call the police? You can share your experience and advice by clicking here.
The Podcast…
Podcast: Download
Weddings and Bar Mitzvahs: How Much Should You Give?
I grew up completely clueless in the ways of the cash gift. For my family, it was always simple: you were invited to a wedding, and you sent a glass bowl from Tiffany. If you knew the people really well, you got the nicer bowl. That turquoise box said you cared. (It also meant recipient knew exactly where to take it it back.)
Stranger In A Strange Land
I’ll never forget the first time I went to an “envelope” wedding. I sent the bowl from Tiffany beforehand, thinking I was covered. Then, some time between the meat course and dessert, the bride started making the rounds. I was forced to pull the groom aside and offer up the equivalent of an IOU.
Looking For Mister Good Bar (Mitzvah)
My next hurdle came when my kids turned 13, and started getting invited to Bar (and Bat) Mitzvahs. With these events, I’ve always been aware of the fact that an envelope is involved – but I’m never quite sure how much to give. (Full disclosure: I’m a lapsed Presbyterian.)
The Cost Equation
These days, I usually end up guessing how much a Bar Mitzvah (or wedding) is costing on a per person basis, I give accordingly. It’s the best formula I can come up with, but it has the effect of making me feel as though I’ve turned some kid’s sacred right of passage into a high end buffet.
The Conversation…
So what do YOU think? If you’ve ever gotten married, or thrown your child a Bar Mitzvah, what felt like a reasonable, heart felt gift? The conversation starts here.
