Our home window got replaced yesterday and we were told the partial roof is coming up in rotation likely when I'll be gone so D will supervise the job. Nice to see things come together.
I forgot to comment on using our Nexus iris scans to get through customs coming home from our last trip. We need more practice centering our eyes but it was pretty fast when you don't have to answer verbal questions or line up.
One tip. If you are travelling as a couple or family, use separate machines. D waited for me to get done thinking he was using the same "program" since we have one family declaration card. The machine doesn't know that nor cares so we could have been done at the same time.
Now that I have my tablet, I've been considering getting a Boingo account for airport internet access as I'll be hitting 4 airports this next trip.
Upon further research, it is only reasonable in north america. European prices and global plans are much higher so not really worth it for my casual use. I'll just use wifi when I can get it free, like at Pearson.
I'll be leaving tomorrow for my next adventure. Back in 2 weeks.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Car Insurance
We just received our annual car insurance renewal and to our surprise, it went down!
There has been a change in the car insurance policy in our province whereby the base coverage has now gone down explaining the price decrease.
There are a handful of pages of charts explaining the base coverages of all the categories. What one must do now is decide whether the new lowered coverage is sufficient?
If not, you will need to call them to discuss increasing either back to where it was before or boosting it higher. As much as a $20 decrease a month is great, we need to make sure we are not under insured.
Well, the time has come for trip preparations once again. I've been printing out maps and scouring weather forecasts to get some idea of temperature ranges so I can pack properly without checking in luggage. This one is challenging me.
After "freezing" in Slovenia last month I'm not taking any chances this time. I don't want to be walking all over the place looking for an inexpensive pullover to buy when I have more than enough clothes at home.
There has been a change in the car insurance policy in our province whereby the base coverage has now gone down explaining the price decrease.
There are a handful of pages of charts explaining the base coverages of all the categories. What one must do now is decide whether the new lowered coverage is sufficient?
If not, you will need to call them to discuss increasing either back to where it was before or boosting it higher. As much as a $20 decrease a month is great, we need to make sure we are not under insured.
Well, the time has come for trip preparations once again. I've been printing out maps and scouring weather forecasts to get some idea of temperature ranges so I can pack properly without checking in luggage. This one is challenging me.
After "freezing" in Slovenia last month I'm not taking any chances this time. I don't want to be walking all over the place looking for an inexpensive pullover to buy when I have more than enough clothes at home.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
New Addition
Well I bit the bullet and bought myself a tablet--A Motorola Xoom. So far so good, getting used to a touch screen. D has been busy loading all my stuff onto it. He is surprised at how easy and quick it was to do.
The purpose of it initially was for reading and emailing while away without having to lug around my laptop. Now that I've started at my new office, having a lighter computer helps immensely with keeping my briefcase weight under control. An issue I didn't expect to have to contend with before.
An extra bonus I hadn't thought of was using the tablet as a replacement for my chunky ipod (80 gig), reducing travel weight once again. And the sound is good!
It also has a gps map function that will locate where you are and give you travel directions ie bus, train, plane to where you want to go without you needing a data plan. Don't ask me how that works.
Since my recent trip research to Asia someday, D and I have started amassing better travelling clothing ie. lighter, quick drying, hand washable, nice looking (non safari, non travel looking...) so we wouldn't have to pack as much.
We were impressed with the selection available. Some of the materials are simply astonishing. Some of the prices were as well. I will get to try out a couple of new pieces on my next trip.
The purpose of it initially was for reading and emailing while away without having to lug around my laptop. Now that I've started at my new office, having a lighter computer helps immensely with keeping my briefcase weight under control. An issue I didn't expect to have to contend with before.
An extra bonus I hadn't thought of was using the tablet as a replacement for my chunky ipod (80 gig), reducing travel weight once again. And the sound is good!
It also has a gps map function that will locate where you are and give you travel directions ie bus, train, plane to where you want to go without you needing a data plan. Don't ask me how that works.
Since my recent trip research to Asia someday, D and I have started amassing better travelling clothing ie. lighter, quick drying, hand washable, nice looking (non safari, non travel looking...) so we wouldn't have to pack as much.
We were impressed with the selection available. Some of the materials are simply astonishing. Some of the prices were as well. I will get to try out a couple of new pieces on my next trip.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Frustrating People 2
Well my frustrating people experience took place at Best Buy. I'm inching closer to buying a tablet.
Basically I've down graded what I would like it to have. My last search was for something that runs Windows 7 and would be basically a laptop replacement. So I had my heart set on the Asus Eee 64 GB.
Now I've decided I don't need something even that big. I am willing to consider an Android running tablet like the Motorola 32GB Xoom. At half the price of the Asus, and I can buy some conversion app that will convert my excel spreadsheet into a usable form. I can read my books and send email using a WIFI connection.
For some reason I was caught up with having a specific and expensive browser/operating system when it isn't necessary.
D and I figured this on our own because the fellow who was the "expert" in the department couldn't help us at all other than offer to "look it up online" with us. I told him I could do that at home. The value with being here is to be shown how something works.
I don't understand what the value is in hiring someone who doesn't know the products? All he was able to contribute was for the $20 price difference, you can get an iPad 2 and it can do everything.
What does that mean? And when I asked him that, all he could say was it that it is the second generation iPad, so you know what you are getting...vs the Xoom and others which are first generation...
So I ask about my spreadsheets. He didn't know. He didn't know if it can be done on the Android tablets either. The way he said it, it felt like I was supposed to find his answer acceptable. Oh yeah, the spreadsheet app on an iPad is called "Numbers". OK.
Yes, I realized he was telling the truth of he didn't know. But I don't find that acceptable. I would not hire someone who cannot really help other than to say they don't know. Aren't they supposed to learn about the products? I'd like to get paid just for being there and not being helpful.
This isn't the first time I've run into issues with help at Best Buy. When I was looking to purchase my bluetooth headset, the guy then didn't know how the set up with my computer would be like because he owns a Mac.
That's really helpful, especially when the tone intimated at the superiority of Macs. I couldn't help rolling my eyes at D.
I have no issues with Apple. If they produce a product that will work for me, I'll happily buy it. Knowing the differences between the products, pros and cons is what I was after, in order to make a somewhat educated decision.
Isn't that true for most things? I just wasn't going to jump on any bandwagon just because someone tells me it is the best but cannot explain if it would be the best for me.
Basically I've down graded what I would like it to have. My last search was for something that runs Windows 7 and would be basically a laptop replacement. So I had my heart set on the Asus Eee 64 GB.
Now I've decided I don't need something even that big. I am willing to consider an Android running tablet like the Motorola 32GB Xoom. At half the price of the Asus, and I can buy some conversion app that will convert my excel spreadsheet into a usable form. I can read my books and send email using a WIFI connection.
For some reason I was caught up with having a specific and expensive browser/operating system when it isn't necessary.
D and I figured this on our own because the fellow who was the "expert" in the department couldn't help us at all other than offer to "look it up online" with us. I told him I could do that at home. The value with being here is to be shown how something works.
I don't understand what the value is in hiring someone who doesn't know the products? All he was able to contribute was for the $20 price difference, you can get an iPad 2 and it can do everything.
What does that mean? And when I asked him that, all he could say was it that it is the second generation iPad, so you know what you are getting...vs the Xoom and others which are first generation...
So I ask about my spreadsheets. He didn't know. He didn't know if it can be done on the Android tablets either. The way he said it, it felt like I was supposed to find his answer acceptable. Oh yeah, the spreadsheet app on an iPad is called "Numbers". OK.
Yes, I realized he was telling the truth of he didn't know. But I don't find that acceptable. I would not hire someone who cannot really help other than to say they don't know. Aren't they supposed to learn about the products? I'd like to get paid just for being there and not being helpful.
This isn't the first time I've run into issues with help at Best Buy. When I was looking to purchase my bluetooth headset, the guy then didn't know how the set up with my computer would be like because he owns a Mac.
That's really helpful, especially when the tone intimated at the superiority of Macs. I couldn't help rolling my eyes at D.
I have no issues with Apple. If they produce a product that will work for me, I'll happily buy it. Knowing the differences between the products, pros and cons is what I was after, in order to make a somewhat educated decision.
Isn't that true for most things? I just wasn't going to jump on any bandwagon just because someone tells me it is the best but cannot explain if it would be the best for me.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Frustrating People
D and I both had frustrating people moments yesterday. Here's D's first.
There is a colleague of D's who makes bitey comments about other peoples' "better" lives. And yesterday it was targeted at D, who didn't appreciate it.
She said things like "Oh, it must be nice not to have kids...", or "It must be nice to have all that money to travel..." or "I wish I could just take off somewhere like you can..." and various variations of the above in an accusatory tone.
Luckily for her, she wasn't speaking to me as I do not have as much patience as D and this is hardly the first time plus I do not do well with "victim mentalities" in the first place.
Background story: She has a deadbeat husband who she supports along with 2 kids. She isn't particularly good at what she does and is one of those people who has become complacent in the 20 plus years with the company.
Her husband is emotionally and mentally abusive and she likes to manipulate her in ways that ensure she cannot have a life outside of catering to him and the kids. He doesn't "allow" her to take a vacation. They do not live together but he certainly seems to control her. A decade's worth of counselling hasn't helped yet.
So D's replies to yesterday's bitter comments: "How much do you spend in daycare in a month? Now times that by 12. (holy crap)", "How many people work (one) and how many people are you supporting? (4)" and "Did you choose to get married and have kids or were you forced to? (by choice)".
"Well, our lifestyle was chosen by choice too. Vacations and vacation properties didn't just fall out of the sky onto our lap because we were lucky. We actively planned to make it happen. So until you have that figured out, don't make any more negative comments to others because you are frustrated with your choices and perceived lack of control."
Next post will be my experience.
There is a colleague of D's who makes bitey comments about other peoples' "better" lives. And yesterday it was targeted at D, who didn't appreciate it.
She said things like "Oh, it must be nice not to have kids...", or "It must be nice to have all that money to travel..." or "I wish I could just take off somewhere like you can..." and various variations of the above in an accusatory tone.
Luckily for her, she wasn't speaking to me as I do not have as much patience as D and this is hardly the first time plus I do not do well with "victim mentalities" in the first place.
Background story: She has a deadbeat husband who she supports along with 2 kids. She isn't particularly good at what she does and is one of those people who has become complacent in the 20 plus years with the company.
Her husband is emotionally and mentally abusive and she likes to manipulate her in ways that ensure she cannot have a life outside of catering to him and the kids. He doesn't "allow" her to take a vacation. They do not live together but he certainly seems to control her. A decade's worth of counselling hasn't helped yet.
So D's replies to yesterday's bitter comments: "How much do you spend in daycare in a month? Now times that by 12. (holy crap)", "How many people work (one) and how many people are you supporting? (4)" and "Did you choose to get married and have kids or were you forced to? (by choice)".
"Well, our lifestyle was chosen by choice too. Vacations and vacation properties didn't just fall out of the sky onto our lap because we were lucky. We actively planned to make it happen. So until you have that figured out, don't make any more negative comments to others because you are frustrated with your choices and perceived lack of control."
Next post will be my experience.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
The Heat
My new office air conditioning can get really cold. So much so I have left a permanent emergency layer there just in case. There is nothing worst than feeling like doing jumping jacks in the middle of summer because you are freezing.
At home we hover at the 74 - 75 degree F range. Not enough to make one freeze but enough to take the humidity out of the air. It is not on overnight. The house has done really well this season in light of our high high temperatures.
They are calling for 49 C humidex today and there is talk records may be broken.
Our city has asked people not to water lawns due to lowered water levels from lack of rain the past month. Our grass is showing dry patches now. They say it is just going dormant.
We have made an extra effort to close blinds during the day to help keep heat out. Our hydro and water bill came out to $108 last month. Not bad for us especially when actual usage is barely half of it.
Being on well and septic at the cottage has advantages here. Not having to pay for usage or the fees that cost well more. Makes for reasonable monthly running expenses.
At home we hover at the 74 - 75 degree F range. Not enough to make one freeze but enough to take the humidity out of the air. It is not on overnight. The house has done really well this season in light of our high high temperatures.
They are calling for 49 C humidex today and there is talk records may be broken.
Our city has asked people not to water lawns due to lowered water levels from lack of rain the past month. Our grass is showing dry patches now. They say it is just going dormant.
We have made an extra effort to close blinds during the day to help keep heat out. Our hydro and water bill came out to $108 last month. Not bad for us especially when actual usage is barely half of it.
Being on well and septic at the cottage has advantages here. Not having to pay for usage or the fees that cost well more. Makes for reasonable monthly running expenses.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Net Worth Accounting
I'm not completely accurate in my monthly net worth postings. The reason being there are certain account movements I don't bother to track due to the amount of work and there being no real need.
So I do not account for credit card balances because they are paid off with no penalties. I don't account for our checking accounts because monies sitting there is monthly/planned spending. Nor do I account for cash we keep in various currency for travel purposes. I don't even update at the same time each month.
The only things I track for net worth purposes are items that don't get much movement, large items that form most of our assets and liabilities. So that I can get a broad strokes idea of where we are.
I do not get involved with perennial arguments of whether primary residences and cars and personal property ought to be on a net worth statement. I have them on mine.
The one item we don't have any numbers for yet which will become significant with time is D's new pension. I'm assuming we are supposed to get some kind of statement regarding the value of it.
D has looked into it and he was told there is an annual statement that gets published. So we'll just have to look out for it this year sometime. Once we get our hands on it, I'll be able to do a once a year update.
I probably ought keep on top of things in the real estate valuation area. We are likely still undervalued for our main house and cottage. But our ski condo worth is likely higher than it ought to be as markets have fallen in the area. Factoring everything, I'm still expecting us to come out ahead overall.
Whereas in the automobile department, it tends to only goes down. That pricks a bit. I can only imagine how it would feel had we bought new instead of 50% off.
So I do not account for credit card balances because they are paid off with no penalties. I don't account for our checking accounts because monies sitting there is monthly/planned spending. Nor do I account for cash we keep in various currency for travel purposes. I don't even update at the same time each month.
The only things I track for net worth purposes are items that don't get much movement, large items that form most of our assets and liabilities. So that I can get a broad strokes idea of where we are.
I do not get involved with perennial arguments of whether primary residences and cars and personal property ought to be on a net worth statement. I have them on mine.
The one item we don't have any numbers for yet which will become significant with time is D's new pension. I'm assuming we are supposed to get some kind of statement regarding the value of it.
D has looked into it and he was told there is an annual statement that gets published. So we'll just have to look out for it this year sometime. Once we get our hands on it, I'll be able to do a once a year update.
I probably ought keep on top of things in the real estate valuation area. We are likely still undervalued for our main house and cottage. But our ski condo worth is likely higher than it ought to be as markets have fallen in the area. Factoring everything, I'm still expecting us to come out ahead overall.
Whereas in the automobile department, it tends to only goes down. That pricks a bit. I can only imagine how it would feel had we bought new instead of 50% off.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Looking Ahead Again
Time is just clicking away here. Now that work has slowed for me, I am noticing the rest of my life's pace as too quick. My mind is still racing when it attacks a new idea. It hasn't figured out I have more time now and no rushing is needed.
Now that I am looking around more, I told D I feel we are doing too much. He says it has gotten significantly less vs a month ago. So he feels we are on the right track. That's good to at least hear.
As I look at my travel plans for the remainder of the year, I feel rushed. There is a lot going on for me. Exciting things put in place at a time where my work days and amounts were different. Some of the holidays don't fall on the "right" times now but I'm not going to change it.
Even the Chilean volcanic ash news is looking up. A large part of that rushed feeling comes from my not picking "easy" places to go. I'm not a lie down on a beach and drink for a week type. Never have been. I like to challenge myself with different cultures and languages which takes effort and energy.
With the type of travel deals we've been seeing so far this year, we are planning on not really planning for 2012. Go forth on a "see what comes up" attitude instead. Still research and learn and save so that we will be ready to move on an opportunity should it pop up.
Now that I am looking around more, I told D I feel we are doing too much. He says it has gotten significantly less vs a month ago. So he feels we are on the right track. That's good to at least hear.
As I look at my travel plans for the remainder of the year, I feel rushed. There is a lot going on for me. Exciting things put in place at a time where my work days and amounts were different. Some of the holidays don't fall on the "right" times now but I'm not going to change it.
Even the Chilean volcanic ash news is looking up. A large part of that rushed feeling comes from my not picking "easy" places to go. I'm not a lie down on a beach and drink for a week type. Never have been. I like to challenge myself with different cultures and languages which takes effort and energy.
With the type of travel deals we've been seeing so far this year, we are planning on not really planning for 2012. Go forth on a "see what comes up" attitude instead. Still research and learn and save so that we will be ready to move on an opportunity should it pop up.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Looking Ahead
The result of our Turbo Hub this weekend was "OK" in the mornings and down the rest of the weekend. So "regular" summer weekend usage is still overwhelming the system.
So I just switched to reading books on my laptop instead. By the way, the final Harry Potter movie was very satisfying. I even splurged on popcorn!
Out where we live, we are in dire need of rain. It hasn't rained for weeks and we finally broke down over the weekend to water our trees and gardens. The high temperatures has stalled our outdoor painting and other work.
I'm starting to compose in my head a secondary maintenance list that will require capital savings. Things like repairing/replacing our septic tank at the cottage, re-surfacing our asphalt driveway at home.
Not really sure when the septic will need to be replaced. Any checks we've had has been great and being just the two of us, we do not constitute a high load for the system. It doesn't hurt to have some money set aside just in case, now that the account won't really be needed for a new roof for a while.
The driveway I can comment on. It does need some help and I have no idea how much things like that cost. One of these days I'll get around to requesting a quote. Nearby neighbours recently had theirs done in concrete. I want to get quoted for both just to know the difference.
So I just switched to reading books on my laptop instead. By the way, the final Harry Potter movie was very satisfying. I even splurged on popcorn!
Out where we live, we are in dire need of rain. It hasn't rained for weeks and we finally broke down over the weekend to water our trees and gardens. The high temperatures has stalled our outdoor painting and other work.
I'm starting to compose in my head a secondary maintenance list that will require capital savings. Things like repairing/replacing our septic tank at the cottage, re-surfacing our asphalt driveway at home.
Not really sure when the septic will need to be replaced. Any checks we've had has been great and being just the two of us, we do not constitute a high load for the system. It doesn't hurt to have some money set aside just in case, now that the account won't really be needed for a new roof for a while.
The driveway I can comment on. It does need some help and I have no idea how much things like that cost. One of these days I'll get around to requesting a quote. Nearby neighbours recently had theirs done in concrete. I want to get quoted for both just to know the difference.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Turbo Hub Update
D got us an answer about our terrible experience with the Turbo Hub a couple of weekends ago. There was a major outage due to overloading of the system.
Because our hub uses the cellular network and we are in cottage country, our tower (which is fairly new) has to be able to handle all the weekenders who are just coming for the weekend.
They have underestimated the volume of users. There is no issues during the business week but come 5 pm on a Fridays all matter of heck breaks loose.
A lot of cell phone plans entice you with free calls after 6 pm depending on your company. And with most families there are multiple phones. So the picture is easily formed.
Each family coming up either renting or owning or visiting brings with them phones that use data on top of what locals already use. Add to that the popularity of downloading photos for all to see, a data traffic jam is what can happen.
We are interested to see how this non long weekend stacks up now that summer vacation is here. Hopefully better!
Because our hub uses the cellular network and we are in cottage country, our tower (which is fairly new) has to be able to handle all the weekenders who are just coming for the weekend.
They have underestimated the volume of users. There is no issues during the business week but come 5 pm on a Fridays all matter of heck breaks loose.
A lot of cell phone plans entice you with free calls after 6 pm depending on your company. And with most families there are multiple phones. So the picture is easily formed.
Each family coming up either renting or owning or visiting brings with them phones that use data on top of what locals already use. Add to that the popularity of downloading photos for all to see, a data traffic jam is what can happen.
We are interested to see how this non long weekend stacks up now that summer vacation is here. Hopefully better!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Venice
Venice was very much like what I thought it would be and better. I wasn't prepared for how much I would love all the back alleyways, all the small bridges where you can experience total silence for a long time before seeing anyone.
It's not as confusing as you may think. We only got turned around once and we didn't have to use a map. Once you get out of the San Marco area you'll find the real neighbourhoods with local cafes and restaurants with their much more reasonable prices. It was refreshing not to hear the sound of lawn mowers and cars. We didn't realize how significant that would be until we came home.
Sure, we did the tourist trap thing and ate (not the best food) by the Rialto bridge and paid through our noses for the privilege. One of which is being entertained by the traffic chaos of multiple commuter ferries, gondolas, private boats all come within inches of each other, criss crossing the canal all over the place. There is no right of way, traffic lanes or no wake zones in Venice that we were able to see.
One time, we saw a fire boat tear down the middle of all that, creating such wake that the water splashed up on the sides of the restaurant seating. The gondoliers all hunkered down the best they could to avoid having themselves and their guests dumped on the water. You know you are in Italy. Imagine Rome traffic but on water! It was great fun. D and I were grinning ear to ear and shaking our heads.
Our first ferry ride was captained by a trainee whom I got quite impatient with because all he was concerned about doing was singing and dancing to tunes on the radio instead of watching for available docks. His trainer didn't seemed concerned.
Loading docks were on a first come first serve basis and we sat there in the water for almost 20 min watching other more assertive boats get the available spots as soon as another boat would back out. I wanted to go up there and take over! All our other rides were captained by seasoned fellows who just pushed their way into spots. I loved it!
Over all, there are surprisingly ample opportunities to get off the beaten path in Venice. The food wasn't as bad as some tour books would lead you to believe. And like most cities, you pay more in the areas where everyone goes. As this was our first immersion in the city, we paid more. The next time will cost less as we will be renting an apartment in one of our favourite districts.
I am so glad D and I got to experience this together. Incidentally, we haven't gotten a real answer to D's time off without pay question. They are still investigating. Guess this particular manager has never been asked that before. We are staying hopeful.
It's not as confusing as you may think. We only got turned around once and we didn't have to use a map. Once you get out of the San Marco area you'll find the real neighbourhoods with local cafes and restaurants with their much more reasonable prices. It was refreshing not to hear the sound of lawn mowers and cars. We didn't realize how significant that would be until we came home.
Sure, we did the tourist trap thing and ate (not the best food) by the Rialto bridge and paid through our noses for the privilege. One of which is being entertained by the traffic chaos of multiple commuter ferries, gondolas, private boats all come within inches of each other, criss crossing the canal all over the place. There is no right of way, traffic lanes or no wake zones in Venice that we were able to see.
One time, we saw a fire boat tear down the middle of all that, creating such wake that the water splashed up on the sides of the restaurant seating. The gondoliers all hunkered down the best they could to avoid having themselves and their guests dumped on the water. You know you are in Italy. Imagine Rome traffic but on water! It was great fun. D and I were grinning ear to ear and shaking our heads.
Our first ferry ride was captained by a trainee whom I got quite impatient with because all he was concerned about doing was singing and dancing to tunes on the radio instead of watching for available docks. His trainer didn't seemed concerned.
Loading docks were on a first come first serve basis and we sat there in the water for almost 20 min watching other more assertive boats get the available spots as soon as another boat would back out. I wanted to go up there and take over! All our other rides were captained by seasoned fellows who just pushed their way into spots. I loved it!
Over all, there are surprisingly ample opportunities to get off the beaten path in Venice. The food wasn't as bad as some tour books would lead you to believe. And like most cities, you pay more in the areas where everyone goes. As this was our first immersion in the city, we paid more. The next time will cost less as we will be renting an apartment in one of our favourite districts.
I am so glad D and I got to experience this together. Incidentally, we haven't gotten a real answer to D's time off without pay question. They are still investigating. Guess this particular manager has never been asked that before. We are staying hopeful.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Learning Lots
Yes, I will be one of the adults pushing their way through the crowds of ankle biters at the opening of Harry Potter this weekend. I can't wait.
It's hard to believe but taking away my Friday shift (2 1/2 hrs) has made a difference in my frame of mind. The rest of the week is more relaxed. Last week I felt a bit hyper (withdrawal likely) from not needing to gear up anymore. This week nothing. Improvement I believe.
I've been learning so much about South East Asia the last couple of days. Enough to make me appreciate my national airline so much more. It isn't easy nor possible to fly with one airline between Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. I told D yesterday I need a computer like Tony Stark's to manage all my pages.
Am also getting used to the various currencies too. And what about flight passes, you ask? Crazy restrictive and confusing. I'm beginning to appreciate just how much work it takes to get good itineraries together.
Sometimes it just is easier to train it between certain destinations. Maybe those seemingly "expensive" prices are worth it after all?
National Geographic publishes the results of their top Adventure tour companies surveys online. It is a good place to start your research on what is out there and get familiar with companies and places you've always dreamed about.
One realizes quite quickly just how developed niche world travel is and just how many others have already tread the paths you are just starting to discover.
It's hard to believe but taking away my Friday shift (2 1/2 hrs) has made a difference in my frame of mind. The rest of the week is more relaxed. Last week I felt a bit hyper (withdrawal likely) from not needing to gear up anymore. This week nothing. Improvement I believe.
I've been learning so much about South East Asia the last couple of days. Enough to make me appreciate my national airline so much more. It isn't easy nor possible to fly with one airline between Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. I told D yesterday I need a computer like Tony Stark's to manage all my pages.
Am also getting used to the various currencies too. And what about flight passes, you ask? Crazy restrictive and confusing. I'm beginning to appreciate just how much work it takes to get good itineraries together.
Sometimes it just is easier to train it between certain destinations. Maybe those seemingly "expensive" prices are worth it after all?
National Geographic publishes the results of their top Adventure tour companies surveys online. It is a good place to start your research on what is out there and get familiar with companies and places you've always dreamed about.
One realizes quite quickly just how developed niche world travel is and just how many others have already tread the paths you are just starting to discover.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Adriatic
Travel review posts continued...
D and I are liking the Adriatic side of things more and more. It is vastly different from the Mediterranean side. The wealth there is more hidden. There is much more space and vastness. Areas are pristine and tourist groups (if you even see any) are much smaller.
Whereas evidence of wealth is pretty much in your face in Monaco and Nice port. Loads of tour groups following hand raised signs everywhere. Not as bad as Venice (our high water mark now) but enough for you to wonder what is going on? Why are people reluctant to discover very safe places on their own?
As we are being changed by the new places we encounter, we are increasingly wondering if our "old favourites" will continue to hold favour still? We'll be returning to France in the fall, specifically Paris first then renting an apartment in Nice again.
We are also aching to get back to Germany and Holland again. But the lure of Belgium is enticing and everything is tempered by D's restrictive holiday allowance. He has officially asked if taking time off without pay would be acceptable. We are awaiting word.
D and I are liking the Adriatic side of things more and more. It is vastly different from the Mediterranean side. The wealth there is more hidden. There is much more space and vastness. Areas are pristine and tourist groups (if you even see any) are much smaller.
Whereas evidence of wealth is pretty much in your face in Monaco and Nice port. Loads of tour groups following hand raised signs everywhere. Not as bad as Venice (our high water mark now) but enough for you to wonder what is going on? Why are people reluctant to discover very safe places on their own?
As we are being changed by the new places we encounter, we are increasingly wondering if our "old favourites" will continue to hold favour still? We'll be returning to France in the fall, specifically Paris first then renting an apartment in Nice again.
We are also aching to get back to Germany and Holland again. But the lure of Belgium is enticing and everything is tempered by D's restrictive holiday allowance. He has officially asked if taking time off without pay would be acceptable. We are awaiting word.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Future Travel Plans
I have been slowly but surely doing research on travels to Indochina -- Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand. The original idea was to use turning 40 as an excuse to go. But seriously, when have I needed an excuse to see a new place, right?
So it may not happen next year. The cost is high to cover all that distance and to get in the experiences I would like in less than a month. It's because I am considering an adventure tour and flights are used instead of spending days on end on trains which is what a lot of travellers do in order to save on hotel nights.
Speaking of hotels, you may consider me a wimp as I want air conditioning and my own bathroom. I don't need 5 stars, 3 would be fine. Even though it may be a tourist trap, I am really excited at the idea of spending a couple of nights on a Junk Boat in Halong Bay and eating some fantastic seafood.
What I'm not excited about is the possibility of having to get inoculated for Japanese Encephalitis and possibly rabies, on top of malaria pills. Torturous side effects aside, the price tag on those 3 items cost over $1000.
So it is almost like buying 2 plane tickets a person before the price of the trip. (I already have Typhoid and Yellowfever, from last year's failed trip to Argentina) My life is worth more than $1000, I know. It's another significant line on the trip budget, that's all.
So it may not happen next year. The cost is high to cover all that distance and to get in the experiences I would like in less than a month. It's because I am considering an adventure tour and flights are used instead of spending days on end on trains which is what a lot of travellers do in order to save on hotel nights.
Speaking of hotels, you may consider me a wimp as I want air conditioning and my own bathroom. I don't need 5 stars, 3 would be fine. Even though it may be a tourist trap, I am really excited at the idea of spending a couple of nights on a Junk Boat in Halong Bay and eating some fantastic seafood.
What I'm not excited about is the possibility of having to get inoculated for Japanese Encephalitis and possibly rabies, on top of malaria pills. Torturous side effects aside, the price tag on those 3 items cost over $1000.
So it is almost like buying 2 plane tickets a person before the price of the trip. (I already have Typhoid and Yellowfever, from last year's failed trip to Argentina) My life is worth more than $1000, I know. It's another significant line on the trip budget, that's all.
Friday, July 8, 2011
10 Pictures
Rialto traffic
Back street Venice -- So quiet and lovely
The Craziness that is San Marco -- We preferred to be away from the crowds 
Arsenale district -- Where we will call home next time...
Quick trip over to Dubrovnik to show D the sights
Small town Italy
Slovenia
LjubljanaThursday, July 7, 2011
Ljubljana, Slovenia
[This is the first of a number of posts about my trip to Venice. Warning: They will not necessary be in order or be related to each other, nor about Venice. You'll see why as the story unfolds... :) I'm still processing it and basking in the afterglow of it all.]
Our recent trip was enhanced when we took a day trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia -- 2 1/2 hrs by car from Venice. What a cool hip but gentle city. Lots of young people due to the university. Easy to get around. Hard to get really lost. Lots of upscale stores.
A colleague of D's made us promise to have a Union beer or two on her behalf as it was her home town. Apparently if we drink the other main brand Lasko in the city, we would be looked upon weirdly.
Later, by the coast, we did try Lasko. I think the waiter thought I was surprised by the cost because it was more than I expected when it was the opposite. Two pints and a large bottle of sparkling water was 7 euro! I thought he meant 17 euro and we would have considered that cheap as you can easily pay 12 euro for 2 espressos or 10 euro for a large beer in Venice sitting down.
Lunch was eaten in the heart of the old town a couple of store fronts by a wonderful chocolate store (more later). I wanted to try something local. The menu translation left a bit to be desired as my dish was called "roasted pork knuckles" served with potatoes and garlic.
The waitress's clarification wasn't much better but I went for it. D had a steak with an interesting brandy sauce and about a palm size hunk of baked goat cheese. There is some serious cafe culture here. Had an excellent medium bodied glass of white wine made by Vinakoper.
My meal ended up being roasted ham hocks. It was fall off the bone tender. The meal portion was huge -- I got 3 of them. And the potatoes was a a baked potatoe chunk pie held together with lots of garlic and I think cream or creamed goat cheese.
Despite my better judgement, I ate it all and followed it up (not all at once) with a large dark chocolate macademia nut bark from the above mentioned chocolate store -- 5 Euro! Would have been much much more expensive in Paris.
Slovenia is hilly and very lush. Whoever does their tourist website has done an excellent job. I was very excited to see it. While on the highway to the capital we saw numerous wind warnings and wind measuring devices found at small airports.
Apparently wind is a serious issue and highways get closed often as cars have been known to blow off the highway. Roads are in great shape otherwise. Everyone heads to their small coast on the weekends to see and be by the water so there is serious road congestion then.
We met a wonderful Slovenian lady who spoke perfect english and she painted a picture of Slovenia that was "typical" of middle class families. People get paid once a month. Average income is $1000 euro a month and typical housing expenses (rent, utilities etc) eat up $700. People dream of owning their own apartment and car. Neighbours get along as long as you car isn't better than theirs (no joke).
The government of Slovenia provides a pension equivalent to 70% of a person's income. There is universal healthcare and "free" education. There is a general aptitude test taken after highschool that will allow you to choose a professional path based on results. Like many countries, the government is trying to cut back retirement benefits.
The day we were there was "freezing" compared to the mid 30's Celcius we had been experiencing so being unprepared for 11 degrees celcius we were frantically looking to buy clothing. The main department store in town was Salvatore Ferragamo upscale so no go there. I just wanted an inexpensive pullover. We did find something that worked when we finally found a Zara.
We both were surprised by how much we enjoyed Slovenia. I've already looked up potential apartment rentals when we are ready for a return trip. If you have a chance, please go.
Our recent trip was enhanced when we took a day trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia -- 2 1/2 hrs by car from Venice. What a cool hip but gentle city. Lots of young people due to the university. Easy to get around. Hard to get really lost. Lots of upscale stores.
A colleague of D's made us promise to have a Union beer or two on her behalf as it was her home town. Apparently if we drink the other main brand Lasko in the city, we would be looked upon weirdly.
Later, by the coast, we did try Lasko. I think the waiter thought I was surprised by the cost because it was more than I expected when it was the opposite. Two pints and a large bottle of sparkling water was 7 euro! I thought he meant 17 euro and we would have considered that cheap as you can easily pay 12 euro for 2 espressos or 10 euro for a large beer in Venice sitting down.
Lunch was eaten in the heart of the old town a couple of store fronts by a wonderful chocolate store (more later). I wanted to try something local. The menu translation left a bit to be desired as my dish was called "roasted pork knuckles" served with potatoes and garlic.
The waitress's clarification wasn't much better but I went for it. D had a steak with an interesting brandy sauce and about a palm size hunk of baked goat cheese. There is some serious cafe culture here. Had an excellent medium bodied glass of white wine made by Vinakoper.
My meal ended up being roasted ham hocks. It was fall off the bone tender. The meal portion was huge -- I got 3 of them. And the potatoes was a a baked potatoe chunk pie held together with lots of garlic and I think cream or creamed goat cheese.
Despite my better judgement, I ate it all and followed it up (not all at once) with a large dark chocolate macademia nut bark from the above mentioned chocolate store -- 5 Euro! Would have been much much more expensive in Paris.
Slovenia is hilly and very lush. Whoever does their tourist website has done an excellent job. I was very excited to see it. While on the highway to the capital we saw numerous wind warnings and wind measuring devices found at small airports.
Apparently wind is a serious issue and highways get closed often as cars have been known to blow off the highway. Roads are in great shape otherwise. Everyone heads to their small coast on the weekends to see and be by the water so there is serious road congestion then.
We met a wonderful Slovenian lady who spoke perfect english and she painted a picture of Slovenia that was "typical" of middle class families. People get paid once a month. Average income is $1000 euro a month and typical housing expenses (rent, utilities etc) eat up $700. People dream of owning their own apartment and car. Neighbours get along as long as you car isn't better than theirs (no joke).
The government of Slovenia provides a pension equivalent to 70% of a person's income. There is universal healthcare and "free" education. There is a general aptitude test taken after highschool that will allow you to choose a professional path based on results. Like many countries, the government is trying to cut back retirement benefits.
The day we were there was "freezing" compared to the mid 30's Celcius we had been experiencing so being unprepared for 11 degrees celcius we were frantically looking to buy clothing. The main department store in town was Salvatore Ferragamo upscale so no go there. I just wanted an inexpensive pullover. We did find something that worked when we finally found a Zara.
We both were surprised by how much we enjoyed Slovenia. I've already looked up potential apartment rentals when we are ready for a return trip. If you have a chance, please go.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Update
We have a theory that our cell phone provider (Bell) must turn down their reception on holidays and weekends in cottage country because our turbo hub and cell phone doesn't work well at all then.
I cannot confirm it and D will get around to calling them to find out but if anyone knows, please let me know. We are happy it works on work days as D works remote from there a few Fridays a month. Guess that is the most important thing.
But, since we are paying for all the other days of the month, it would be nice to access it.
Going up on a Thurs night has really changed our cottaging experience. We don't run into the type of chaotic traffic like we used to. It will likely prolong our cottage ownership as well. I've found myself less apt to want to sell this year.
By the way, the cottage roof looks really good. Due to the postal strike we just noticed the check for the work was just cashed yesterday, 3 weeks later. We are still waiting for the work at the house to be done. Our turn ought to be at the end of the month.
Everything is paid for via investment accounts set up for that purpose. Luckily those types of capital expenses won't (knock on wood) come around for another few decades so there is plenty of time to save up for the next round.
I cannot confirm it and D will get around to calling them to find out but if anyone knows, please let me know. We are happy it works on work days as D works remote from there a few Fridays a month. Guess that is the most important thing.
But, since we are paying for all the other days of the month, it would be nice to access it.
Going up on a Thurs night has really changed our cottaging experience. We don't run into the type of chaotic traffic like we used to. It will likely prolong our cottage ownership as well. I've found myself less apt to want to sell this year.
By the way, the cottage roof looks really good. Due to the postal strike we just noticed the check for the work was just cashed yesterday, 3 weeks later. We are still waiting for the work at the house to be done. Our turn ought to be at the end of the month.
Everything is paid for via investment accounts set up for that purpose. Luckily those types of capital expenses won't (knock on wood) come around for another few decades so there is plenty of time to save up for the next round.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Mish Mash
Because of the differing travel markets, I'm not hearing much news/updates regarding the Chilean volcano eruption outside of airline sites.
It has been going on for a month now and the ash spewed is still very significant with regards to air travel. The impact to the country is strong. I'm afraid world weather disruption is now the new normal.
My business has moved into "summer mode" which usually means slower work levels. I'm actually taking 3 weeks off not til August but my mind has already started to switch to vacation setting.
This is also the first month of my semi-retired work week. It hasn't sunk in yet. I'm sure it will by the end of July. Funny enough, I'm looking at our budget differently, more conservatively, "just in case", when there isn't any real reason for it. Natural protective instinct, I'm guessing.
We went to the drive in twice over the Canada Day long weekend and saw 4 movies. It was a lot of fun.
The amount of mosquitoes were ridiculous! The car was swarmed. So much so I didn't even want to leave the car to pee. I am one of those people when bitten, the bite swells up like a large welt and I am miserable for days. Plus they seem to love me.
So this summer, despite not liking putting chemicals all over me, I am using the strong mosquito repellent stuff. All the organic products used in the past haven't worked well enough for me. I've had enough of the bites and the suffering that come along with it.
It has been going on for a month now and the ash spewed is still very significant with regards to air travel. The impact to the country is strong. I'm afraid world weather disruption is now the new normal.
My business has moved into "summer mode" which usually means slower work levels. I'm actually taking 3 weeks off not til August but my mind has already started to switch to vacation setting.
This is also the first month of my semi-retired work week. It hasn't sunk in yet. I'm sure it will by the end of July. Funny enough, I'm looking at our budget differently, more conservatively, "just in case", when there isn't any real reason for it. Natural protective instinct, I'm guessing.
We went to the drive in twice over the Canada Day long weekend and saw 4 movies. It was a lot of fun.
The amount of mosquitoes were ridiculous! The car was swarmed. So much so I didn't even want to leave the car to pee. I am one of those people when bitten, the bite swells up like a large welt and I am miserable for days. Plus they seem to love me.
So this summer, despite not liking putting chemicals all over me, I am using the strong mosquito repellent stuff. All the organic products used in the past haven't worked well enough for me. I've had enough of the bites and the suffering that come along with it.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Charter Flights
D and I decided that Air Transat wouldn't be our first choice next time we are flight searching. The service was great. It has nothing to do with that. Even the food was decent.
We thought a direct flight to Venice would be great but the plane seats in our case was so hard, our behinds went numb which made it hard to sleep comfortably on the way there.
On the way home, we ended up on a plane without seat back displays so the in flight entertainment was horrible. So we felt trapped for the 9 hrs plus. Thank goodness for iPods and travel journals.
We like our travel miles and with Air Transat, you don't get anything outside of what your credit card gives. Had we gone our usual route and flew KLM/Air France/Delta, I would be a smidgen away from a free North American flight.
Overall our charter experience was better than I imagined or have been told about. Price wise it wasn't that much less than a "regular" airline. The real potential benefit was the direct flight scheduling. I think with the right planes, it would have been much better.
We also notice that there were a very high proportion of first time travellers in our group who were on tour packages. Perhaps charter airlines and their respective agencies make their money this way.
Because of this, there was higher than normal travel giddiness, confusion and a corresponding lack of travel etiquette relating to allowing people in rows ahead to exit before you, knowing what to do at xray screenings...(mind you, I walked through forgetting to take the sunglasses off my head and even the security check gal didn't notice during the pat down).
The amount of luggage people brought were staggering. As online check is only available at certain hubs (not Venice), we had to line up to check in 3 hrs prior and the line was crazy. I haven't had to do that in ages and haven't missed it one bit.
So between the plane and check in experiences, the charter route is low on the list of flight options. I actually don't mind connections because you can stretch your legs, get a meal/drink, do some shopping. It just adds a few hours to the travel day so we have to pick flights earlier in order to arrive at the time we want.
We thought a direct flight to Venice would be great but the plane seats in our case was so hard, our behinds went numb which made it hard to sleep comfortably on the way there.
On the way home, we ended up on a plane without seat back displays so the in flight entertainment was horrible. So we felt trapped for the 9 hrs plus. Thank goodness for iPods and travel journals.
We like our travel miles and with Air Transat, you don't get anything outside of what your credit card gives. Had we gone our usual route and flew KLM/Air France/Delta, I would be a smidgen away from a free North American flight.
Overall our charter experience was better than I imagined or have been told about. Price wise it wasn't that much less than a "regular" airline. The real potential benefit was the direct flight scheduling. I think with the right planes, it would have been much better.
We also notice that there were a very high proportion of first time travellers in our group who were on tour packages. Perhaps charter airlines and their respective agencies make their money this way.
Because of this, there was higher than normal travel giddiness, confusion and a corresponding lack of travel etiquette relating to allowing people in rows ahead to exit before you, knowing what to do at xray screenings...(mind you, I walked through forgetting to take the sunglasses off my head and even the security check gal didn't notice during the pat down).
The amount of luggage people brought were staggering. As online check is only available at certain hubs (not Venice), we had to line up to check in 3 hrs prior and the line was crazy. I haven't had to do that in ages and haven't missed it one bit.
So between the plane and check in experiences, the charter route is low on the list of flight options. I actually don't mind connections because you can stretch your legs, get a meal/drink, do some shopping. It just adds a few hours to the travel day so we have to pick flights earlier in order to arrive at the time we want.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Super Getaway
Am back home and back to work. Long shift yesterday! Slept like a rock last night and have a medium list of things to catch up on today -- at a leisurely pace. Jet lag minimal. A few early approach pictures of Venice to whet your appetites. It's diet and workout time for D and I. Too much good food and wine and gelato...full travel report to come.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Back In A Week
We will be leaving this weekend for Italy. With everything that has gone on this first half of the year, we are both really happy about getting away for a bit.
Even though mentally we know that making money isn't all that, it isn't until exhaustion hits before you remember that time is number one thing D and I value. We both have a hard time saying "No" to everything that may look good on paper but can drain you dry in reality.
Oh, and a quick update about my office move. I will be starting at my new office as of July. Everything is there and ready to go. There was even less stuff than last year and took a fraction of the time to move than I thought. All good things.
Hope everyone has a productive and fun week.
Even though mentally we know that making money isn't all that, it isn't until exhaustion hits before you remember that time is number one thing D and I value. We both have a hard time saying "No" to everything that may look good on paper but can drain you dry in reality.
Oh, and a quick update about my office move. I will be starting at my new office as of July. Everything is there and ready to go. There was even less stuff than last year and took a fraction of the time to move than I thought. All good things.
Hope everyone has a productive and fun week.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Mish Mash
My allergies have been horrible this year. A wet and what feels like an extended spring may be a cause. My homeopathic remedy usually does the trick but I've had to resort to Claritin when it gets completely out of control.
On a much more fun note, there is an art exhibit I'd like to see this summer in Ottawa -- "Caravaggio and His Followers in Rome". The perennial summer issue is availability of weekend time. I am going to check into flying and staying for just one night.
The annual "Donkey Day" was last Sunday. As many of you know, I am a big fan of them. And the day helps to raise money and awareness for the sanctuary.
I haven't been in the frame of mind to look for another company to quote for replacing attic insulation at the cottage. It has been non stop for contractor contacts in the last month.
I'm tired of people not showing up and not responding when they say they will. When I feel mentally strong enough to tackle this job again, I'll resume. After all, I waited 8 yrs. Another year isn't going to kill me. The amount we've accomplished this year already is more than enough.
On a much more fun note, there is an art exhibit I'd like to see this summer in Ottawa -- "Caravaggio and His Followers in Rome". The perennial summer issue is availability of weekend time. I am going to check into flying and staying for just one night.
The annual "Donkey Day" was last Sunday. As many of you know, I am a big fan of them. And the day helps to raise money and awareness for the sanctuary.
I haven't been in the frame of mind to look for another company to quote for replacing attic insulation at the cottage. It has been non stop for contractor contacts in the last month.
I'm tired of people not showing up and not responding when they say they will. When I feel mentally strong enough to tackle this job again, I'll resume. After all, I waited 8 yrs. Another year isn't going to kill me. The amount we've accomplished this year already is more than enough.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Roofing Tip
Because of our upcoming getaway, we will not be able to see the result of the cottage roof replacement until the end of the month. Which brings me to a valuable roofing tip.
Make an effort to visit a roofing supply place where they have moderately large samples of the various shingles up on display. Not the hand held boards with a couple of shingles, or worse, the page with a 2 inch version of the shingle.
You really don't get the full effect of the colour or texture until you see a few rows of it installed like it would be on your roof.
For the cottage, we didn't know about contractor roofing supply places so we went to a local home supply center and agonized over the mini samples they had. I had pictures of our existing roof on my Blackberry and D and I must have looked like fools looking at the phone and holding the tabs up the light...
When we finally made it to the proper roofing place, we were able to see the real thing. Thankfully, we made a great choice for the cottage and had we gone with the other one, it would have been great too (phew!).
For the house, it was trickier in some ways. As we are doing a partial replacement, we were looking to match the colour with what is currently the rest of the roof as we like that colour. Once we saw the 2 colours this roofer recommended, it was a no brainer. We only liked the one.
For those who wish more details, we went with a 30 yr shingle for the cottage and a 50 yr shingle for the house. It was what was recommended to us.
Make an effort to visit a roofing supply place where they have moderately large samples of the various shingles up on display. Not the hand held boards with a couple of shingles, or worse, the page with a 2 inch version of the shingle.
You really don't get the full effect of the colour or texture until you see a few rows of it installed like it would be on your roof.
For the cottage, we didn't know about contractor roofing supply places so we went to a local home supply center and agonized over the mini samples they had. I had pictures of our existing roof on my Blackberry and D and I must have looked like fools looking at the phone and holding the tabs up the light...
When we finally made it to the proper roofing place, we were able to see the real thing. Thankfully, we made a great choice for the cottage and had we gone with the other one, it would have been great too (phew!).
For the house, it was trickier in some ways. As we are doing a partial replacement, we were looking to match the colour with what is currently the rest of the roof as we like that colour. Once we saw the 2 colours this roofer recommended, it was a no brainer. We only liked the one.
For those who wish more details, we went with a 30 yr shingle for the cottage and a 50 yr shingle for the house. It was what was recommended to us.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Home Maintenance Update
We will be flying Air Transat to Venice. They offer a direct flight from Toronto vs. the last time I few, which was via Amsterdam.
The price was lower than the major carriers but more importantly, the flight times worked better but we won't be receiving any extra points. As this is my first dealing with them, I'll report back my opinions after.
A message arrived from the cottage roofer (while we were outside painting) letting us know the job has been completed. And most importantly, there were no surprises or extra expenses.
We were mildly concerned that boards would have to be replaced. I wasn't joking when I described the previous roofing job as somewhat a "disaster". I'm just grateful it lasted until I was ready to have it replaced.
We allotted $4500 to the job (just in case there were extras) and we will be needing just over $4000. So the $500 extra will be shifted towards our partial home roof and window replacement which is in the $1500 cost range.
It is so nice to have big jobs like this completed, especially when you are relying on others to do it. We just faxed through the signed agreement for our house job and the estimated time when our job will be completed is in the 4 - 6 wk range.
By then we hope our outdoor painting will be completed. Our goal is to avoid strenuous outdoor work during the high humid times. I certainly feel for those professions who are at the mercy of extreme heat.
The price was lower than the major carriers but more importantly, the flight times worked better but we won't be receiving any extra points. As this is my first dealing with them, I'll report back my opinions after.
A message arrived from the cottage roofer (while we were outside painting) letting us know the job has been completed. And most importantly, there were no surprises or extra expenses.
We were mildly concerned that boards would have to be replaced. I wasn't joking when I described the previous roofing job as somewhat a "disaster". I'm just grateful it lasted until I was ready to have it replaced.
We allotted $4500 to the job (just in case there were extras) and we will be needing just over $4000. So the $500 extra will be shifted towards our partial home roof and window replacement which is in the $1500 cost range.
It is so nice to have big jobs like this completed, especially when you are relying on others to do it. We just faxed through the signed agreement for our house job and the estimated time when our job will be completed is in the 4 - 6 wk range.
By then we hope our outdoor painting will be completed. Our goal is to avoid strenuous outdoor work during the high humid times. I certainly feel for those professions who are at the mercy of extreme heat.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Too Much
D has an unfortunate car mishap on the way to the cottage last weekend. A flap of something rubbery flew up in the air and hit his car on the bumper. It managed to cause mini cracks on the clear coat and almost knocked out the grill protective cover over his fog light.
He has not had the best luck with vehicles lately. In our garage, he dropped something made of hard plastic onto my car and the result were 4 vertical scrapes I had to touch up. This incident was preventable and we have chalked it up to mental exhaustion and subsequent clumsiness.
We have subsequently decided that he will no longer accept extra contract work during the warmer months as the increased outdoor housework makes life too hectic. And in reality, his contract work pay doesn't go to savings. It is more fun money and we can live without it.
I have one more Friday to work and will move into official semi-retirement. Pretty exciting! How long will that phase last? To be honest, I hope for a while as I still want and need to save. Plus I am also curious to find out if I will achieve a better stress balance at work. I can hardly believe I will be celebrating my 14th year of practice this summer.
Our exterior painting projects are more than 1/2 done. We went at it for about 6 hrs yesterday (lost track of time) but the results are worth it. With the weather being so unpredictable this year, we feel we need to take advantage of what workable weather we get.
I'm anxiously awaiting strawberry season to start.
He has not had the best luck with vehicles lately. In our garage, he dropped something made of hard plastic onto my car and the result were 4 vertical scrapes I had to touch up. This incident was preventable and we have chalked it up to mental exhaustion and subsequent clumsiness.
We have subsequently decided that he will no longer accept extra contract work during the warmer months as the increased outdoor housework makes life too hectic. And in reality, his contract work pay doesn't go to savings. It is more fun money and we can live without it.
I have one more Friday to work and will move into official semi-retirement. Pretty exciting! How long will that phase last? To be honest, I hope for a while as I still want and need to save. Plus I am also curious to find out if I will achieve a better stress balance at work. I can hardly believe I will be celebrating my 14th year of practice this summer.
Our exterior painting projects are more than 1/2 done. We went at it for about 6 hrs yesterday (lost track of time) but the results are worth it. With the weather being so unpredictable this year, we feel we need to take advantage of what workable weather we get.
I'm anxiously awaiting strawberry season to start.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Airstream Tour
We did something educational and fun over the weekend. Ever since I saw a documentary on Airstreams, I've been wanting to see one in person. Sure, I've seen them on the highway but I really wanted to go inside one.
I finally got that chance and was it ever fun. They are really neat. We started with their smallest sport models and moved up to the 30+ ft ones. They know it is really hard to consider the smaller ones once you've been around the larger ones.
Our vehicle has a lot of towing power so it wouldn't have a problem but I can't really see myself pulling it around all over the place. What I can see myself doing is buying a piece of land (that would allow trailers) and putting one there permanently ie. in Nfld.
We were both so glad to have had the chance to go through one. They were as cool as I imagined. But, you should have seen my face when it was suggested it was possible to amortize the cost of one over 25 yrs!
I've never taken longer than 7 yrs to pay off any of my houses ($145K - $285K). I cannot believe people would chose an option like that for something in the $55000 price tag. You wouldn't even get that option for a car!
Like most specialty vehicles (car, boat etc), there are specific extra costs that come along with it -- special toilet paper, chemicals, smaller sized everything that costs a lot more...There is a definitely lifestyle cost attached to it.
I finally got that chance and was it ever fun. They are really neat. We started with their smallest sport models and moved up to the 30+ ft ones. They know it is really hard to consider the smaller ones once you've been around the larger ones.
Our vehicle has a lot of towing power so it wouldn't have a problem but I can't really see myself pulling it around all over the place. What I can see myself doing is buying a piece of land (that would allow trailers) and putting one there permanently ie. in Nfld.
We were both so glad to have had the chance to go through one. They were as cool as I imagined. But, you should have seen my face when it was suggested it was possible to amortize the cost of one over 25 yrs!
I've never taken longer than 7 yrs to pay off any of my houses ($145K - $285K). I cannot believe people would chose an option like that for something in the $55000 price tag. You wouldn't even get that option for a car!
Like most specialty vehicles (car, boat etc), there are specific extra costs that come along with it -- special toilet paper, chemicals, smaller sized everything that costs a lot more...There is a definitely lifestyle cost attached to it.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Update
I don't want to save 100% of my income. That's too boring. And I do not believe it is necessary. So I am going to start with 85% and see how that goes.
The other 15% will be my fun money and it will be a raise compared to what I was getting from Friday income. Should I desire more spending money, then I'll change that ratio to a maximum of 50%.
An update on the Turbo hub antenna... The first time it worked really well! The next day, we couldn't even get one laptop going well. Turned out there was something going on with the Bell Tower as my cell phone wasn't receiving anything.
Last weekend when D was up, he had no troubles. The antenna was purchased off of an eBay vendor for around $36US plus shipping.
Turns out, we got a deal on our contract with Bell as we noticed the prices have gone up since. We got a 2 year contract. Hopefully prices will still be reasonable come renewal time and most certainly better, newer technology too.
We are also loving the drive up on a Thursday night vs. Fridays. So far so good and what a difference! It is shaping up to be a great summer season.
The other 15% will be my fun money and it will be a raise compared to what I was getting from Friday income. Should I desire more spending money, then I'll change that ratio to a maximum of 50%.
An update on the Turbo hub antenna... The first time it worked really well! The next day, we couldn't even get one laptop going well. Turned out there was something going on with the Bell Tower as my cell phone wasn't receiving anything.
Last weekend when D was up, he had no troubles. The antenna was purchased off of an eBay vendor for around $36US plus shipping.
Turns out, we got a deal on our contract with Bell as we noticed the prices have gone up since. We got a 2 year contract. Hopefully prices will still be reasonable come renewal time and most certainly better, newer technology too.
We are also loving the drive up on a Thursday night vs. Fridays. So far so good and what a difference! It is shaping up to be a great summer season.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
All Coming Together
I'm late with my bi-yearly dental check up so it's off to the dentist for me today. Yuck! I'm not a fan and am one of those people who gets nervous at the sounds of dental drills.
The roofer I have been waiting for has answered my questions and we will be firming up our contract with him after we decide on shingle colours this weekend. Am so relieved to have it so close to completion -- At least on my end.
I've figured out where the monies will be coming from. The roofer up north does not take credit card but the local one here does so at least I get some points out of it.
I just got notified our $50 gas card courtesy of MasterCard is on its way. After my car expense next week, I'll be getting another one from Visa too.
The roofer I have been waiting for has answered my questions and we will be firming up our contract with him after we decide on shingle colours this weekend. Am so relieved to have it so close to completion -- At least on my end.
I've figured out where the monies will be coming from. The roofer up north does not take credit card but the local one here does so at least I get some points out of it.
I just got notified our $50 gas card courtesy of MasterCard is on its way. After my car expense next week, I'll be getting another one from Visa too.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Only Wed
Today feels like it ought to be Friday! The week has been so full with each day seemingly stuffed with 2 days worth of events in it.
Summertime is typically slower work wise for me. There is a natural cycle that ebbs and flows throughout the year I've come to appreciate.
In my ideal world, we'd be able to work less during the dark winter months when it makes sense to allow our bodies to hibernate.
Heck, it would be great if we could all work part time and still maintain a good quality of life. I can just imagine how much less stress and more health it could bring.
Summertime is typically slower work wise for me. There is a natural cycle that ebbs and flows throughout the year I've come to appreciate.
In my ideal world, we'd be able to work less during the dark winter months when it makes sense to allow our bodies to hibernate.
Heck, it would be great if we could all work part time and still maintain a good quality of life. I can just imagine how much less stress and more health it could bring.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Decisions Decisions
Three and a half hours later and I got my car back. Repair was covered by warranty -- turned out to be a temperature sensor.
Would have cost $500 if I was covering it on my own. Was told about extended warranty. Am considering it.
The most fun part was getting to test drive a convertible sports car while I was waiting. Made the time go by faster.
Next stop is to get the 3M protection on the front of my car. That's happening either this week or next depending on whether I can complete any paint touch ups at least 24hrs in advance.
I've made up my mind and will be dropping my Fridays at work (2 1/2 hrs) totally starting July. So I have proclaimed myself to be officially semi-retired.
It was a tough decision but a necessary one for mental health reasons more than anything. Now I will be getting 4 days off in a row every week.
Financially the only thing affected is our pocket money as Friday income is split between D and I. We'll just have to dip into our dream for casual spending.
Would have cost $500 if I was covering it on my own. Was told about extended warranty. Am considering it.
The most fun part was getting to test drive a convertible sports car while I was waiting. Made the time go by faster.
Next stop is to get the 3M protection on the front of my car. That's happening either this week or next depending on whether I can complete any paint touch ups at least 24hrs in advance.
I've made up my mind and will be dropping my Fridays at work (2 1/2 hrs) totally starting July. So I have proclaimed myself to be officially semi-retired.
It was a tough decision but a necessary one for mental health reasons more than anything. Now I will be getting 4 days off in a row every week.
Financially the only thing affected is our pocket money as Friday income is split between D and I. We'll just have to dip into our dream for casual spending.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Home Maintenance
D and I had a really productive day yesterday. We were so into our garage door and surround painting, we managed to totally miss the men's French Open final and our talked about screening of X Men First Class.
The garage results are great, even though we are only at the first coat. We have a wooden garage door, so not only is it heavy but also requires a lot of prep -- scraping, sanding, filling, priming.
Managed to get a small sunburn at the back of my neck from it all. We were invited to a friend's house for dinner so it was great to get some good work in and not have to cook.
D's cottage spring cleaning went well. He worked extra hard this past week. I'm a lucky girl to have someone who is willing to do all that physical labour.
He told me that one of our neighbours up there discovered his well had run dry and was not a happy camper, to say the least. His is a 200 ft drilled well which translates into "expensive to replace".
I can only imagine how stressed I would be if it were me in his shoes. We had to replace our well 8 yrs ago because the pipe got clogged after a couple of decades but they just popped a new one in the same place.
Our next door neighbour had to try twice before finding water. I wouldn't want to find myself in a place where we had to consider a shared well situation. Not because I do not wish to help out a neighbour, but from a resale perspective.
I know I would hesitate to buy a property that had a shared situation, well or driveway, for that matter.
The garage results are great, even though we are only at the first coat. We have a wooden garage door, so not only is it heavy but also requires a lot of prep -- scraping, sanding, filling, priming.
Managed to get a small sunburn at the back of my neck from it all. We were invited to a friend's house for dinner so it was great to get some good work in and not have to cook.
D's cottage spring cleaning went well. He worked extra hard this past week. I'm a lucky girl to have someone who is willing to do all that physical labour.
He told me that one of our neighbours up there discovered his well had run dry and was not a happy camper, to say the least. His is a 200 ft drilled well which translates into "expensive to replace".
I can only imagine how stressed I would be if it were me in his shoes. We had to replace our well 8 yrs ago because the pipe got clogged after a couple of decades but they just popped a new one in the same place.
Our next door neighbour had to try twice before finding water. I wouldn't want to find myself in a place where we had to consider a shared well situation. Not because I do not wish to help out a neighbour, but from a resale perspective.
I know I would hesitate to buy a property that had a shared situation, well or driveway, for that matter.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Another Day
Well, it has been 1 month since I've stopped putting prepayments towards the mortgages. Haven't missed it for 1 second. It's nice to see savings accounts build up again.
I've declared myself officially done the mortgage payment game. I handed the baton to D who gratefully accepted it. Now I am working on my long term career plans -- How to handle Fridays, drop them or work them around my life? I'm working 1 Friday a month during the summer. That's all I know for now.
My first German car test came this week in the form of a "check engine" light. The first thought in my head was "Here we go...the universe is testing my resolve here...". Never in my 14 yrs of Honda ownership had I ever gotten a "check engine" light come on. So my first trip to the dealership is coming right up.
The fellow who was supposed to give us an estimate for the cottage roof insulation stiffed D this weekend. I'm not happy about that and have received no message from him. Onto the next company. At first I was going to call and then I thought, if this is the way they run their business, I don't wish to engage with them any further.
I spending a lazy day catching up on reading. It's nice to be able to putter away. Our trip to Venice is around the corner. Time to bring out the good ole Italian phrase book for a whirl.
I've declared myself officially done the mortgage payment game. I handed the baton to D who gratefully accepted it. Now I am working on my long term career plans -- How to handle Fridays, drop them or work them around my life? I'm working 1 Friday a month during the summer. That's all I know for now.
My first German car test came this week in the form of a "check engine" light. The first thought in my head was "Here we go...the universe is testing my resolve here...". Never in my 14 yrs of Honda ownership had I ever gotten a "check engine" light come on. So my first trip to the dealership is coming right up.
The fellow who was supposed to give us an estimate for the cottage roof insulation stiffed D this weekend. I'm not happy about that and have received no message from him. Onto the next company. At first I was going to call and then I thought, if this is the way they run their business, I don't wish to engage with them any further.
I spending a lazy day catching up on reading. It's nice to be able to putter away. Our trip to Venice is around the corner. Time to bring out the good ole Italian phrase book for a whirl.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Freebies
I usually use credit card points towards flights. Recently we decided to use them towards gas cards.
Luck would have it I have just enough points for a $50 card and since ordered, there is news of a postal strike in our neck of the woods.
The very best part about it is the credit card has no fee and I do not carry a balance so it truly is a free gift.
Our other card normally has a fee associated with it but because I have a business account with the bank, it is waived.
I get points with use as well as travel insurance which has saved us a lot of money over the years.
D's new card has a fee of $75/yr but it covers our roadside assistance for both our vehicles, saving us having to buy a plan anymore.
It's great to get freebies and discounts just for regular spending.
Luck would have it I have just enough points for a $50 card and since ordered, there is news of a postal strike in our neck of the woods.
The very best part about it is the credit card has no fee and I do not carry a balance so it truly is a free gift.
Our other card normally has a fee associated with it but because I have a business account with the bank, it is waived.
I get points with use as well as travel insurance which has saved us a lot of money over the years.
D's new card has a fee of $75/yr but it covers our roadside assistance for both our vehicles, saving us having to buy a plan anymore.
It's great to get freebies and discounts just for regular spending.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Getting There
We have firmed up with the one roofer and am waiting for the other one to answer some questions prior to firming up. It's all good.
Haven't figured out which account to use for payment of the smaller job yet. The other one is going to be paid for from our non tax acct.
The only other job slated for this summer is new attic insulation at the cottage. I have a call out to a company for more info and an estimate.
At home, the biggest job this summer will be exterior painting -- garage & sun room. All the paint have been bought. Just waiting on mother nature to cooperate. Can't wait! It's going to look great when completed.
D's annual spring cleaning weekend happens this weekend, sans me as I apparently get in the way and complain too much about the noise...
Haven't figured out which account to use for payment of the smaller job yet. The other one is going to be paid for from our non tax acct.
The only other job slated for this summer is new attic insulation at the cottage. I have a call out to a company for more info and an estimate.
At home, the biggest job this summer will be exterior painting -- garage & sun room. All the paint have been bought. Just waiting on mother nature to cooperate. Can't wait! It's going to look great when completed.
D's annual spring cleaning weekend happens this weekend, sans me as I apparently get in the way and complain too much about the noise...
Monday, May 30, 2011
Deals!
I think retailers and the travel industry are hurting a bit.
I got a great deal on my recent bookings. D and I took a day trip to a shopping mall yesterday so I can look for a few things and we found some amazing offers.
My work clothes mainly come from Mexx. But yesterday, I didn't find anything great there but completely lucked out at Banana Republic -- A store I haven't shopped at much since my personal budget cut backs.
It felt like shopping in the States. I got 25% off everything and they gave out an extra savings coupon worth 30% off the total. To get good quality things at that much of a discount was amazing.
I bought a top, skirt and dress for just over $100 taxes in. Normally, that is what it would cost for a pair of pants. It was worth the gasoline to get there.
I got a great deal on my recent bookings. D and I took a day trip to a shopping mall yesterday so I can look for a few things and we found some amazing offers.
My work clothes mainly come from Mexx. But yesterday, I didn't find anything great there but completely lucked out at Banana Republic -- A store I haven't shopped at much since my personal budget cut backs.
It felt like shopping in the States. I got 25% off everything and they gave out an extra savings coupon worth 30% off the total. To get good quality things at that much of a discount was amazing.
I bought a top, skirt and dress for just over $100 taxes in. Normally, that is what it would cost for a pair of pants. It was worth the gasoline to get there.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Saying No
D and I decided to opt out of an event scheduled for today because he is just pooped. It's usually me as I have come to expect unlimited energy from D. We all have our limits.
I'm a bit disappointed to be missing out on this particular event because of the potential fun factor. Got me thinking of all the times (lots!) I've said no to things because I didn't want to put myself over the edge energy wise.
One of my girlfriends has great difficulty saying no. She will burn the candle on both ends to make things happen. For the longest time I was wide eyed with wonder at her endurance.
Unfortunately she has developed health issues recently that is hopefully going to have her slow down a bit in order to heal. Not surprisingly, she is not happy and is fighting it.
I see a lot of myself in her. I think we all can to some extent.
I'm a bit disappointed to be missing out on this particular event because of the potential fun factor. Got me thinking of all the times (lots!) I've said no to things because I didn't want to put myself over the edge energy wise.
One of my girlfriends has great difficulty saying no. She will burn the candle on both ends to make things happen. For the longest time I was wide eyed with wonder at her endurance.
Unfortunately she has developed health issues recently that is hopefully going to have her slow down a bit in order to heal. Not surprisingly, she is not happy and is fighting it.
I see a lot of myself in her. I think we all can to some extent.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
It's All Coming Together
Can you believe it? We actually got a quote from a roofer at exactly the time he said he would get it to us! I can hardly believe it. And to top that, we met another roofer yesterday. Maybe spring is just slow to spring this year?
The first quote is for the cottage. And I had just called on Tues. When we were up there for the long weekend, D and I decided it was time. We've owned it for 8 years now and it had been replaced 2 owners before. It was a do it yourself job and I humbly would suggest I could have done much better. Even the roofer called it a bit of a mess.
So it is time. I don't have confidence it can make through another winter. The quote is in the $4500 range for a one floor 700 square foot property. We have $6000 set aside for it so am happy to come under. We are going to confirm the job tonight and it should be done within a month.
The roofer we met yesterday was for the sun room and we were told the quote will arrive via email. It hasn't gotten here yet but D has worked with the company before and he is optimistic. We also asked for an entire roof quote as a fyi to see if what we've put aside is on target with current rates. They are hopefully going to be replacing a window or 2 for us as well.
If this quote is reasonable, they've got the job. I'm not going to chase the last roofer who was here 2 1/2 wks ago for his quote if they are not interested enough in the job to reply.
I did book the cool trip to Scandinavia and Russia for later this summer. It more than makes up for my cancelled one to Iceland and Stockholm last month as well as my cancelled time off last summer due to my office move. I'm a bit overwhelmed from the excitement and scope of it. Time to look into getting a Russian tourist visa.
The first quote is for the cottage. And I had just called on Tues. When we were up there for the long weekend, D and I decided it was time. We've owned it for 8 years now and it had been replaced 2 owners before. It was a do it yourself job and I humbly would suggest I could have done much better. Even the roofer called it a bit of a mess.
So it is time. I don't have confidence it can make through another winter. The quote is in the $4500 range for a one floor 700 square foot property. We have $6000 set aside for it so am happy to come under. We are going to confirm the job tonight and it should be done within a month.
The roofer we met yesterday was for the sun room and we were told the quote will arrive via email. It hasn't gotten here yet but D has worked with the company before and he is optimistic. We also asked for an entire roof quote as a fyi to see if what we've put aside is on target with current rates. They are hopefully going to be replacing a window or 2 for us as well.
If this quote is reasonable, they've got the job. I'm not going to chase the last roofer who was here 2 1/2 wks ago for his quote if they are not interested enough in the job to reply.
I did book the cool trip to Scandinavia and Russia for later this summer. It more than makes up for my cancelled one to Iceland and Stockholm last month as well as my cancelled time off last summer due to my office move. I'm a bit overwhelmed from the excitement and scope of it. Time to look into getting a Russian tourist visa.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Musings
D and I have decided to give a couple of those daily deals a try. One is for a Japanese restaurant and the other a fun day out at an amusement park.
We are hoping our experiences will allow us to save on our usual monthly outings and get us out to new places. Guess exposure is the point of the deals. Maybe we'll find some new favourite spots.
For some reason, I've caught the moving bug. It's not like me to feel this way. I tend to enjoy buying places but selling them is a nightmare for me.
I think I just like the exercise of wondering what type of house would I like now, knowing what I know now? In reality, it is more accurate to say what else would I like in addition to what I already have?
My current answer would be a larger garage and driveway. A finished basement preferably with a walk out to the back yard. A larger, more private lot, perhaps in the country.
Of course that would mean I would have a larger commute again. And the price tag for those additional features translates into an extra $150K than what our home would be worth. And depending on where we go, property taxes could skyrocket. Country living can also mean well water and septic systems.
On a travel note, caught wind of a great trip to Scandinavia and Russia this summer...I'm giving myself 24hrs to sleep on it...
We are hoping our experiences will allow us to save on our usual monthly outings and get us out to new places. Guess exposure is the point of the deals. Maybe we'll find some new favourite spots.
For some reason, I've caught the moving bug. It's not like me to feel this way. I tend to enjoy buying places but selling them is a nightmare for me.
I think I just like the exercise of wondering what type of house would I like now, knowing what I know now? In reality, it is more accurate to say what else would I like in addition to what I already have?
My current answer would be a larger garage and driveway. A finished basement preferably with a walk out to the back yard. A larger, more private lot, perhaps in the country.
Of course that would mean I would have a larger commute again. And the price tag for those additional features translates into an extra $150K than what our home would be worth. And depending on where we go, property taxes could skyrocket. Country living can also mean well water and septic systems.
On a travel note, caught wind of a great trip to Scandinavia and Russia this summer...I'm giving myself 24hrs to sleep on it...
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Extra Long Weekend
After what has felt like getting one's teeth pulled, I have gotten one contractor to look at our sunroom roof and window. No quote yet, didn't bother to get up on the roof and it has been 1 1/2 wks.
Next week is our third quote attempt. (Remember our first quote never materialized with no phone call.) Hopefully this company will be a bit more professional. Otherwise D and I will be learning how to do it ourselves...and I'm serious about that.
I updated our NetworthIQ listing this morning and the numbers have dropped by about $11K as the markets have taken a bit of a beating. I had no real sense of the size of the drop until I plugged the numbers in. Numbers can be so harsh!
We haven't been up to the cottage since our dead tree was removed (hope that has been done too!). This is a long weekend for us Canadians and mine starts today as I'm off til next Tues.
It is also D's annual attempt at opening it. Crossing fingers and toes! Also keeping them crossed for decent weather. We'd like to go to the drive in one of the nights...yummy french fries and onion rings...
Have a great weekend everyone!
Next week is our third quote attempt. (Remember our first quote never materialized with no phone call.) Hopefully this company will be a bit more professional. Otherwise D and I will be learning how to do it ourselves...and I'm serious about that.
I updated our NetworthIQ listing this morning and the numbers have dropped by about $11K as the markets have taken a bit of a beating. I had no real sense of the size of the drop until I plugged the numbers in. Numbers can be so harsh!
We haven't been up to the cottage since our dead tree was removed (hope that has been done too!). This is a long weekend for us Canadians and mine starts today as I'm off til next Tues.
It is also D's annual attempt at opening it. Crossing fingers and toes! Also keeping them crossed for decent weather. We'd like to go to the drive in one of the nights...yummy french fries and onion rings...
Have a great weekend everyone!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
All Kinds of People
I spent the morning putting out all the various "fires" related to my business. None of it too crazy, just time consuming. Stuff that would fester if I left it for later.
D and I were at a casual meet and greet the other night at our local business association and one of the couples we met (not sure how they got invited) stood out in our both of our minds for different reasons.
There is an age and generation gap between the couple of 11 yrs. You can think of the older of the 2 as young for her age and the younger one as really young for his age. The 2 of them together made for an interesting combination.
The girlfriend is educated but is tired of her job. She has no passion for it and am hoping for a quick buck online. So she has started a blog and has heard that through advertising, you can make enough to pay rent.
The boyfriend is not post secondary educated and works in a factory. His social life (now hers too) and conversation comprises of his friends' accomplishments and perks.
This couple basically goes around to neighbours and friends for free meals and "weekend away" trips. They have no problem sleeping in garages or basements or floors or using someone's hot tub when they are not there. And they are proud of their very full social life and who they know.
What do they offer in return? From what we heard, not much, maybe leftover wedding wine...
The crazy thing, is that they seem very happy!
Call us jaded or whatever, but we cannot relate to that type of lifestyle. The girlfriend is a year younger than me. I guess if the people they hang with don't mind it, then what is the problem?
It is hard for D and I who are self made to consider the idea of "couch surfing" or going over to someone's house at supper time to get invited for a meal. I know how it can take a community to raise a child, but really?
D and I were at a casual meet and greet the other night at our local business association and one of the couples we met (not sure how they got invited) stood out in our both of our minds for different reasons.
There is an age and generation gap between the couple of 11 yrs. You can think of the older of the 2 as young for her age and the younger one as really young for his age. The 2 of them together made for an interesting combination.
The girlfriend is educated but is tired of her job. She has no passion for it and am hoping for a quick buck online. So she has started a blog and has heard that through advertising, you can make enough to pay rent.
The boyfriend is not post secondary educated and works in a factory. His social life (now hers too) and conversation comprises of his friends' accomplishments and perks.
This couple basically goes around to neighbours and friends for free meals and "weekend away" trips. They have no problem sleeping in garages or basements or floors or using someone's hot tub when they are not there. And they are proud of their very full social life and who they know.
What do they offer in return? From what we heard, not much, maybe leftover wedding wine...
The crazy thing, is that they seem very happy!
Call us jaded or whatever, but we cannot relate to that type of lifestyle. The girlfriend is a year younger than me. I guess if the people they hang with don't mind it, then what is the problem?
It is hard for D and I who are self made to consider the idea of "couch surfing" or going over to someone's house at supper time to get invited for a meal. I know how it can take a community to raise a child, but really?
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Cost of Liquids
A lot of our local news has to do with the price of gasoline. People are getting pretty outraged by the high prices.
When you compare the relative costs of the various types of fluids we consume, it turns out gasoline isn't the worst culprit.
Check out this fun list.
D and I do not have a water dispenser at home. We are good with tap water and will use a Brita filter.
I'm not much of a drinker so alcohol is purchased for entertaining. D will have the occasional beer but you will not see it in our fridge often.
Can't say I'm much of a milk drinker either. D is, so we buy it in the 4L bags.
Coffee is one area D will spend on. Whereas I will buy nail polish and lotion. We spend as little as we can on decent shampoo. I do own a couple bottles of perfume but rarely use it.
When you look at liquids this way, all of a sudden paying for premium gas doesn't seem too bad!
ps. I too have lost my replies to comments from the last Blogger update.
When you compare the relative costs of the various types of fluids we consume, it turns out gasoline isn't the worst culprit.
Check out this fun list.
D and I do not have a water dispenser at home. We are good with tap water and will use a Brita filter.
I'm not much of a drinker so alcohol is purchased for entertaining. D will have the occasional beer but you will not see it in our fridge often.
Can't say I'm much of a milk drinker either. D is, so we buy it in the 4L bags.
Coffee is one area D will spend on. Whereas I will buy nail polish and lotion. We spend as little as we can on decent shampoo. I do own a couple bottles of perfume but rarely use it.
When you look at liquids this way, all of a sudden paying for premium gas doesn't seem too bad!
ps. I too have lost my replies to comments from the last Blogger update.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Daily Deals
A friend introduced me to all those "deal" sites and now I get daily "deals" sent to my inbox. They are pretty tempting but I've yet to buy anything even though some of the deals are ridiculously cheap.
Why is that?
I haven't figured it completely out but I'm thinking a lot has to do with loyalty. For example, one of the first ones I got was for a spa. You can go get a facial, a few other things for $39 or thereabouts.
That is crazy cheap. My facials cost $115. I've tried other places in the past and they have not come close to what I get at my usual spot. Ditto with hair salons.
Thanks to google street maps, I can see what and where this new deal location is all about and this time, it was located at a seedy strip mall with terrible parking. Not a location I would go to and certainly no where close to where I go now.
I can see myself buying into one of these deals for a restaurant I haven't been to yet. But, as a person of habit, I have a core group of places I frequent. Now I'm sounding old and inflexible!
Why is that?
I haven't figured it completely out but I'm thinking a lot has to do with loyalty. For example, one of the first ones I got was for a spa. You can go get a facial, a few other things for $39 or thereabouts.
That is crazy cheap. My facials cost $115. I've tried other places in the past and they have not come close to what I get at my usual spot. Ditto with hair salons.
Thanks to google street maps, I can see what and where this new deal location is all about and this time, it was located at a seedy strip mall with terrible parking. Not a location I would go to and certainly no where close to where I go now.
I can see myself buying into one of these deals for a restaurant I haven't been to yet. But, as a person of habit, I have a core group of places I frequent. Now I'm sounding old and inflexible!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Live For Who?
We know someone who is separated. She owns a large property in the country and has 3 grown kids.
The marital home (above) is in the midst of being sold for a nice sum. The dilemma is, should she buy or rent at this stage of life -- over 60 yrs old?
In order to buy, it would cost 50% of the proceeds of the sale. It is important for her to have enough room to house family when they visit.
Having come from a generation where RSPs were not as mainstream as it is for D and I, she has no significant retirement savings. Her own mother, when she passed on, left her $10000.
It is also important for her to leave money to her kids. Two of them are self sustaining. One is struggling still in their 40's. There is a chance they may have to move in with her.
I think she ought to rent first and decide later, rather than buy the first place that comes up. It is important to ensure there is enough money for her first as one never knows what health challenges may crop up.
What if there is need of assisted living? Those types of living arrangements do not come cheap. Elaborate family dinners can be held at someone else's home.
She has spent her life working around everyone else. I'm not sure she has it in her to start living for herself first. I'd hate to see her financial stability weakened because of this.
The marital home (above) is in the midst of being sold for a nice sum. The dilemma is, should she buy or rent at this stage of life -- over 60 yrs old?
In order to buy, it would cost 50% of the proceeds of the sale. It is important for her to have enough room to house family when they visit.
Having come from a generation where RSPs were not as mainstream as it is for D and I, she has no significant retirement savings. Her own mother, when she passed on, left her $10000.
It is also important for her to leave money to her kids. Two of them are self sustaining. One is struggling still in their 40's. There is a chance they may have to move in with her.
I think she ought to rent first and decide later, rather than buy the first place that comes up. It is important to ensure there is enough money for her first as one never knows what health challenges may crop up.
What if there is need of assisted living? Those types of living arrangements do not come cheap. Elaborate family dinners can be held at someone else's home.
She has spent her life working around everyone else. I'm not sure she has it in her to start living for herself first. I'd hate to see her financial stability weakened because of this.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
No Plan
Neighbours of ours got talked into converting their mortgage into a line of credit. I'm not sure it was such a great move for them.
The reason being, they are both spenders and in the short 2 months since it was set up, they have managed to max it out.
When it was set up, they asked for some extra money in order to pay back debts owed to other creditors as well as a bit of leeway "just in case". There hasn't been an emergency but the credit room is now gone.
The worrisome thing is their focus has been completely on the minimum payment being so much smaller than their previous mortgage as the only thing required is the interest portion only.
If you pay it, it makes you feel like a responsible person. When in reality, you'll never pay it off and that is what I think banks are hoping for.
There is some peace associated with a mortgage payment plan. When it is done, it is done. All you have to do is pay it when you're supposed to, just follow the plan.
The reason being, they are both spenders and in the short 2 months since it was set up, they have managed to max it out.
When it was set up, they asked for some extra money in order to pay back debts owed to other creditors as well as a bit of leeway "just in case". There hasn't been an emergency but the credit room is now gone.
The worrisome thing is their focus has been completely on the minimum payment being so much smaller than their previous mortgage as the only thing required is the interest portion only.
If you pay it, it makes you feel like a responsible person. When in reality, you'll never pay it off and that is what I think banks are hoping for.
There is some peace associated with a mortgage payment plan. When it is done, it is done. All you have to do is pay it when you're supposed to, just follow the plan.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Prudent Decisions
I've decided to delay the start of my dance lesson due to work overload. On one hand, my brain tells me it will help me neutralize the work effects.
My other side of the brain tells me to just allow yourself to recover and catch up instead of always going and doing. It's quite the fight up there.
So the right side of brain won out this round. I'm sticking with the basic exercise and rest and good food. That will mean sushi tonight!
The first long weekend "of the summer" for us Canadians is coming up in another 1 1/2 wks. It will also be the first time D will be using the turbo hub on the Friday, working remote from up north.
We will get to drive up on the Thursday night, hopefully avoiding the crazy summer cottage traffic from now on.
As we tend to go twice a month, I'm taking the Fridays off those weeks throughout the summer cottaging season. Might do that into the fall as well, haven't decided yet.
My other side of the brain tells me to just allow yourself to recover and catch up instead of always going and doing. It's quite the fight up there.
So the right side of brain won out this round. I'm sticking with the basic exercise and rest and good food. That will mean sushi tonight!
The first long weekend "of the summer" for us Canadians is coming up in another 1 1/2 wks. It will also be the first time D will be using the turbo hub on the Friday, working remote from up north.
We will get to drive up on the Thursday night, hopefully avoiding the crazy summer cottage traffic from now on.
As we tend to go twice a month, I'm taking the Fridays off those weeks throughout the summer cottaging season. Might do that into the fall as well, haven't decided yet.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Not Reliable
Well, the roofer, who said he was going to come give us a quote (again) didn't show again with no phone call! So he is officially off the roster. It is a shame because I believe he does good work when he is here and we've worked with him in the past.
Unreliability makes it hard for me to want to do business with someone. Plus it is hard to grow a business that way. D says this is an endemic problem amongst roofers in his experience. So off to the next company on the list.
I'm in the midst of working out my summer work schedule. Last summer I took Fridays off. This summer I think I'll have to work 1 Friday a month in order not to have to shift all of my home visit clients. The change may not be worth the hassle.
Unreliability makes it hard for me to want to do business with someone. Plus it is hard to grow a business that way. D says this is an endemic problem amongst roofers in his experience. So off to the next company on the list.
I'm in the midst of working out my summer work schedule. Last summer I took Fridays off. This summer I think I'll have to work 1 Friday a month in order not to have to shift all of my home visit clients. The change may not be worth the hassle.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Car Accessories
I've been spending a bit on car accessories. New mats ($282.50), cargo liner ($209.29) and perhaps a trickle charger so my battery doesn't die when we are away for 2 - 3 weeks ($189.84).
A big expense may be coming in the form of 3M film protection of the front end. If I go for it, it will come to around $2300 taxes in. I'm considering it piece by piece.
These are all one time "set up" expenses. That's what I'm telling myself. The last time I went through this (at a much lower rate) was 14 yrs ago for a much simple machine.
Finally, I'll be saving up for new wheels and winter tires. If I get them from the States, they will be cheaper ($2500). In Canada, likely closer to $3600 - $4000.
And here I thought target shooting was expensive! I'm also telling myself it is much cheaper than what my parents paid for a year of piano lessons. It's been fun and I'm enjoying the process more now that I seem to be over my sadness.
Have a great weekend everyone!
A big expense may be coming in the form of 3M film protection of the front end. If I go for it, it will come to around $2300 taxes in. I'm considering it piece by piece.
These are all one time "set up" expenses. That's what I'm telling myself. The last time I went through this (at a much lower rate) was 14 yrs ago for a much simple machine.
Finally, I'll be saving up for new wheels and winter tires. If I get them from the States, they will be cheaper ($2500). In Canada, likely closer to $3600 - $4000.
And here I thought target shooting was expensive! I'm also telling myself it is much cheaper than what my parents paid for a year of piano lessons. It's been fun and I'm enjoying the process more now that I seem to be over my sadness.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Fun Times!
I'm at an interesting financial cross roads and will be taking the month of May or beyond if needed to feel things out a bit.
My "annuity" from D is scheduled to start next year. For new readers who may not know what I'm talking about, it is the amount of money that D needs to fully own 50% of our properties, to be a true partner. As it is important for him to do so, we have come to call the equalization payment my annuity.
The value of it sits at around $133000. So, what that means is that I've overpaid by that amount and have continued to pour in mortgage prepayments weekly with the hopes of ending our ties to the bank earlier. What that also means is my annuity starts earlier.
I'm asking myself whether it matters to me to have my annuity start earlier? Or would I like to start saving again and stop right now?
If you ask D, his answer would be stop right now. That I've done enough. Cut that stressful part out of your life. He is fully capable of handling things from here. Just back off.
Guess it isn't much in my nature to back off. It has gotten me this far in life, not without some health costs though. Being somewhat of a control freak still, I worry about things falling apart if I don't keep my finger in it.
The interesting part is even I have to admit we are close enough to the end. More importantly to D, it is a symbol of my confidence in him and his career to carry us through the rest of it. So he is taking my controlling behaviour personally.
I will not be making additional prepayments this month. Instead I will put the monies into a savings account and letting it sit there while I ponder if I can be done with all this.
In other news, I just receive the last of my trip refunds. It totalled more than I expected which is always exciting. I was supposed to receive only 50% back from Icelandair and they must have added some airport taxes into it mix as I received 72% back. Cool!
The funds have already been spent again as D and I just confirmed a trip to Italy (Venice) together in June. I've been harping about us going since my short stay there last Nov and I'm really excited we can do this trip together.
He has some strong ideas about travel destinations due to his limited holidays ie. I couldn't pay him to come to Iceland and Sweden with me. I'm fortunate I have time to do both.
Finally, it has been impossible not to drive with a smile these days. I'm really happy with my new (to me) vehicle. It is a true indulgence and not about going green. I couldn't go down to pick it up myself because I was too upset about letting go of my old car. That didn't bother D too much as he loved driving it home.
My "annuity" from D is scheduled to start next year. For new readers who may not know what I'm talking about, it is the amount of money that D needs to fully own 50% of our properties, to be a true partner. As it is important for him to do so, we have come to call the equalization payment my annuity.
The value of it sits at around $133000. So, what that means is that I've overpaid by that amount and have continued to pour in mortgage prepayments weekly with the hopes of ending our ties to the bank earlier. What that also means is my annuity starts earlier.
I'm asking myself whether it matters to me to have my annuity start earlier? Or would I like to start saving again and stop right now?
If you ask D, his answer would be stop right now. That I've done enough. Cut that stressful part out of your life. He is fully capable of handling things from here. Just back off.
Guess it isn't much in my nature to back off. It has gotten me this far in life, not without some health costs though. Being somewhat of a control freak still, I worry about things falling apart if I don't keep my finger in it.
The interesting part is even I have to admit we are close enough to the end. More importantly to D, it is a symbol of my confidence in him and his career to carry us through the rest of it. So he is taking my controlling behaviour personally.
I will not be making additional prepayments this month. Instead I will put the monies into a savings account and letting it sit there while I ponder if I can be done with all this.
In other news, I just receive the last of my trip refunds. It totalled more than I expected which is always exciting. I was supposed to receive only 50% back from Icelandair and they must have added some airport taxes into it mix as I received 72% back. Cool!
The funds have already been spent again as D and I just confirmed a trip to Italy (Venice) together in June. I've been harping about us going since my short stay there last Nov and I'm really excited we can do this trip together.
He has some strong ideas about travel destinations due to his limited holidays ie. I couldn't pay him to come to Iceland and Sweden with me. I'm fortunate I have time to do both.
Finally, it has been impossible not to drive with a smile these days. I'm really happy with my new (to me) vehicle. It is a true indulgence and not about going green. I couldn't go down to pick it up myself because I was too upset about letting go of my old car. That didn't bother D too much as he loved driving it home.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
On Frugality
Having bumbled and mumbled my way through this blog since Sept '08, I've found my identification of frugality has changed.
I spend some time reading through a blog I had found in my early blogging days but had stopped reading because it made me feel guilty I wasn't doing more to be more frugal or environmentally friendly.
I realize that other people can only make me feel what I allow. My competitive nature can get me into trouble as I like to challenge myself to see if I can it too.
Some changes have been great. Others made me feel unnecessarily miserable. If you look hard enough, you'll find someone out there who is more extreme than you.
Part of the art of living your life is finding how the way you live falls within the spectrum of life.
It would certainly be neater and easier if we all started with say 100 units of "life energy" which we could use to create our life. Some of us may choose to have a larger house, others may choose to have to spend it on a larger family.
Life isn't compartmentalized so neatly. There will always be those with more and less than you. And no one is 100% right or wrong in how they choose to live.
We may be able to agree on some facts about global warming or peak oil and modify our lifestyles accordingly. Some may choose to ignore it.
That's where the consciousness part of living comes in. If you choose to live a certain way, act a certain way, own it and the consequences that come of it. Isn't that what being an adult is all about?
I'm happy to report I've matured since 2008.
I spend some time reading through a blog I had found in my early blogging days but had stopped reading because it made me feel guilty I wasn't doing more to be more frugal or environmentally friendly.
I realize that other people can only make me feel what I allow. My competitive nature can get me into trouble as I like to challenge myself to see if I can it too.
Some changes have been great. Others made me feel unnecessarily miserable. If you look hard enough, you'll find someone out there who is more extreme than you.
Part of the art of living your life is finding how the way you live falls within the spectrum of life.
It would certainly be neater and easier if we all started with say 100 units of "life energy" which we could use to create our life. Some of us may choose to have a larger house, others may choose to have to spend it on a larger family.
Life isn't compartmentalized so neatly. There will always be those with more and less than you. And no one is 100% right or wrong in how they choose to live.
We may be able to agree on some facts about global warming or peak oil and modify our lifestyles accordingly. Some may choose to ignore it.
That's where the consciousness part of living comes in. If you choose to live a certain way, act a certain way, own it and the consequences that come of it. Isn't that what being an adult is all about?
I'm happy to report I've matured since 2008.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Getting Ready
D and I have a few exterior house maintenance jobs on tap this summer. The largest one involves painting -- Garage door, exterior doors, trim and sunroom. We've decided on the colour so it is now a matter of weather cooperation to mark the start.
Eventually we will have to replace the garage door and opener but I hope it can hang in there for a few more years yet. The current door is made of wood. I will go with a metal one next time as it is much lighter and easier to maintain.
May 1st is the start of our time of use electrical billing in our area. We have already started doing laundry on weekends. Drying laundry is usually outside during the summers.
We finished installing blinds on all south facing windows and they will be closed during the day time to help deflect heat away as to lower the amount of AC usage. I'm curioius to see our first bill as we believe ourselves to be quite conservative already.
I've found someone to take down the dead tree at the cottage. No reply yet from the prospective roofer for the sunroom.
Eventually we will have to replace the garage door and opener but I hope it can hang in there for a few more years yet. The current door is made of wood. I will go with a metal one next time as it is much lighter and easier to maintain.
May 1st is the start of our time of use electrical billing in our area. We have already started doing laundry on weekends. Drying laundry is usually outside during the summers.
We finished installing blinds on all south facing windows and they will be closed during the day time to help deflect heat away as to lower the amount of AC usage. I'm curioius to see our first bill as we believe ourselves to be quite conservative already.
I've found someone to take down the dead tree at the cottage. No reply yet from the prospective roofer for the sunroom.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Cost Per Use
We have been gliding along with double the food account money for the last couple of months. Today we did a larger Costco shop as our membership expires April so that we don't have to renew for a few months.
That is one reason I don't have the "Costco American Express" card as you then have to renew right on time. Last year we bought gift cards so that we could still purchase without renewing yet.
Our cost of membership goes down per month this way. Being just the 2 of us, we don't shop there as often as full size families do but find enough savings in what we do buy to justify continued membership.
The last week off has been great. I was pretty productive and got 90% of my list of clean out/organization stuff done. Am a bit tired heading back to work this week and as usual, will need a couple of days before I am revved back up to full frequency.
That is one reason I don't have the "Costco American Express" card as you then have to renew right on time. Last year we bought gift cards so that we could still purchase without renewing yet.
Our cost of membership goes down per month this way. Being just the 2 of us, we don't shop there as often as full size families do but find enough savings in what we do buy to justify continued membership.
The last week off has been great. I was pretty productive and got 90% of my list of clean out/organization stuff done. Am a bit tired heading back to work this week and as usual, will need a couple of days before I am revved back up to full frequency.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Odd Jobs
The flashing as well as the roof over our sun room is getting old and is in need of replacement. We have experienced some leakage along the edge of an exposed brick wall. As our flooring is tile, it didn't case any damage.
D is pretty handy. Has done some roofing but doesn't feel confident about the flashing part. So I am in the midst of looking for a contractor to get the job done. I'm not expecting this to be an expensive job as the roof area is small.
We lucked out on finding a fellow to remove a tree at the cottage for a reasonable price. The last dead tree we took down cost $475. This one is coming in at $282.50, much better.
D is making another attempt this year to open the cottage without professional help. Fingers crossed all the elements will be in alignment and the savings will be around $200.
We have various "working accounts" in place to handle small fixes without any hesitation. Large scale jobs like entire roofs, car, furnace, hot water heater replacement etc. are funded from our non registered accounts.
D is pretty handy. Has done some roofing but doesn't feel confident about the flashing part. So I am in the midst of looking for a contractor to get the job done. I'm not expecting this to be an expensive job as the roof area is small.
We lucked out on finding a fellow to remove a tree at the cottage for a reasonable price. The last dead tree we took down cost $475. This one is coming in at $282.50, much better.
D is making another attempt this year to open the cottage without professional help. Fingers crossed all the elements will be in alignment and the savings will be around $200.
We have various "working accounts" in place to handle small fixes without any hesitation. Large scale jobs like entire roofs, car, furnace, hot water heater replacement etc. are funded from our non registered accounts.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Better Health
Stress and I are not strangers. I can get so stressed I need to take a homeopathic stress remedy to calm me down. About 12 yrs ago, I had my first anxiety attack.
I live (and I think a lot of others do too) with a certain level of background stress. It isn't until I have free time, vacation time, walking or running time I tune into just how stressed out I really am.
My normal behavior is to override it and keep going. I'll catch up with it/myself later. Not the most healthy coping habit.
The single most thing that stresses me most is money -- How to continue earning it happily. Followed closely by how my management of it affects my relationship with D.
He feels I'm too strict. I'm tense from forcing myself to be strict. My refusal to believe we are OK and will be OK. It hinders the level of enjoyment I have in my work. A big vicious circle.
I have no big answers other than to enact some small stress reduction changes. Little by little they will add up to major significance and better health.
I live (and I think a lot of others do too) with a certain level of background stress. It isn't until I have free time, vacation time, walking or running time I tune into just how stressed out I really am.
My normal behavior is to override it and keep going. I'll catch up with it/myself later. Not the most healthy coping habit.
The single most thing that stresses me most is money -- How to continue earning it happily. Followed closely by how my management of it affects my relationship with D.
He feels I'm too strict. I'm tense from forcing myself to be strict. My refusal to believe we are OK and will be OK. It hinders the level of enjoyment I have in my work. A big vicious circle.
I have no big answers other than to enact some small stress reduction changes. Little by little they will add up to major significance and better health.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Sad Day
D's uncle died suddenly last week. He was 67 yrs old and retired a couple of years ago after a long and fruitful career running his own construction company. Happily married for decades with healthy children and grandchildren.
They has just come home from their vacation down south when he fell over and was taken to the hospital. He died 2 days later from advanced lung cancer no one knew he had. They had plans to tour the States in their motor home. The one big purchase they worked so hard to attain. It was a sad day.
The subject of stress has been on the top of most people's conversation and the concept of waiting til what the "normal" acceptable retirement age to begin living. Most times when the subject of early retirement would come up, most people roll their eyes at us. Not so that day.
I noticed a significant increase in interest about our plans, especially when we are able to talk in terms of short time lines. It's much easier to comprehend a 2 - 5 yr time span vs 25 yr.
They has just come home from their vacation down south when he fell over and was taken to the hospital. He died 2 days later from advanced lung cancer no one knew he had. They had plans to tour the States in their motor home. The one big purchase they worked so hard to attain. It was a sad day.
The subject of stress has been on the top of most people's conversation and the concept of waiting til what the "normal" acceptable retirement age to begin living. Most times when the subject of early retirement would come up, most people roll their eyes at us. Not so that day.
I noticed a significant increase in interest about our plans, especially when we are able to talk in terms of short time lines. It's much easier to comprehend a 2 - 5 yr time span vs 25 yr.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Clean Out Continues
Declutter your mind, declutter your life. Declutter your house, declutter your life etc. etc.
So far so good. I've got good momentum and am finding myself willingly doing stuff to D's continued amazement.
It has been incredible just how much stuff I'm pulling out of my head's thing's to do list. Things I've been carrying around with me for years.
I must admit, it has been therapeutic, even for a quasi minimalist like me.
It has been a great trip down memory lane as well. Sorting through piles of legal paperwork uncovered old real estate listings and bank papers. I even had the advertisement of my townhome condo.
Looking at old mortgage papers made us chuckle when we looked at our signing rates of 6.1% vs our 2 and change % now.
So far so good. I've got good momentum and am finding myself willingly doing stuff to D's continued amazement.
It has been incredible just how much stuff I'm pulling out of my head's thing's to do list. Things I've been carrying around with me for years.
I must admit, it has been therapeutic, even for a quasi minimalist like me.
It has been a great trip down memory lane as well. Sorting through piles of legal paperwork uncovered old real estate listings and bank papers. I even had the advertisement of my townhome condo.
Looking at old mortgage papers made us chuckle when we looked at our signing rates of 6.1% vs our 2 and change % now.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Spring Clean Out
I'm off this week and will spend it de-cluttering and organizing home, cottage and my life.
Talking myself out of taking a trip this week felt like I was volunteering for a root canal. In the big scheme of things, it really is a minor thing.
What got me through it was the feeling I have reached another "ceiling" in my life and I must do the work to break through it in order to reach the next new level.
D is utterly amazed with me. Who are you, he asked. I've put off a whole lot of things/decisions about our home, some for the 3 years we've been here and he had given up trying to get me engaged in discussions.
I'm capable of learning, however slow!
Talking myself out of taking a trip this week felt like I was volunteering for a root canal. In the big scheme of things, it really is a minor thing.
What got me through it was the feeling I have reached another "ceiling" in my life and I must do the work to break through it in order to reach the next new level.
D is utterly amazed with me. Who are you, he asked. I've put off a whole lot of things/decisions about our home, some for the 3 years we've been here and he had given up trying to get me engaged in discussions.
I'm capable of learning, however slow!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Update
It is set. My colleague and I will be moving offices for July 1st. Everything has been inked and signed. We are very excited as it will be a better long term business move.
There is much less stress with this one as our business model will not change. Nothing much changes other than a more central location with better parking. It is my hope to finish up my career here.
My recent car purchase will cause some shifting of assets in my NWIQ chart. The depreciable assets (oh well!) goes up while non registered account balances goes down.
As D and I are splitting on this purchase and he doesn't want to cash out his non registered stocks, he will be carrying a line of credit balance for the next year or so. I'm paying for my half outright.
No new news about my pregnant friend's plight. Her partner hasn't made any attempts to reach out to her. She is trying hard to keep a positive outlook for the baby's sake.
D and I feel so strongly about her we are thinking of setting up an RESP/savings account as our gift to the baby.
Happy Easter Everyone!!!
There is much less stress with this one as our business model will not change. Nothing much changes other than a more central location with better parking. It is my hope to finish up my career here.
My recent car purchase will cause some shifting of assets in my NWIQ chart. The depreciable assets (oh well!) goes up while non registered account balances goes down.
As D and I are splitting on this purchase and he doesn't want to cash out his non registered stocks, he will be carrying a line of credit balance for the next year or so. I'm paying for my half outright.
No new news about my pregnant friend's plight. Her partner hasn't made any attempts to reach out to her. She is trying hard to keep a positive outlook for the baby's sake.
D and I feel so strongly about her we are thinking of setting up an RESP/savings account as our gift to the baby.
Happy Easter Everyone!!!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Drudged Up
Is it silly to be sad about leaving your first car? I'm feeling very nostalgic over it. It has been in my life for 14 yrs and represented not only my first car but my freedom and ticket to independent life. I am used to it.
D says it will go to a great new home and will serve the next person really well. That doesn't make me feel much better. It's just that it is so well designed for someone practical like me. I dislike center consoles and it is one of the few that doesn't have one.
I guess I'm one of those people who get attached to things. At various points, I reverted back to wanting to fix it. Then D gets on his mini rampage about how it is time to move on to a safer, newer car. Something that has that better stereo you want. Something that has a bit more pep than 125HP.
That it is OK to spend money on yourself and show your success a little. I will own up to that. No one but a handful of people and a whole lot of bloggers knows that I do all this travelling and own more than one home.
How I dress certainly doesn't give anything away. I do use a few nice purses though but it would be interpreted as fairly normal as a lot of women splurge on a nice purse.
But a snappy car draws attention and I'm not used to that. D thinks I ought to get used to some of that and to feel proud of myself for my hard work over the years.
I come from a culture where it is very normal to show success with material things. I've rebelled against it for most of my life. If I was "normal" according to upbringing, I'd be on my 4th car by now and own a giant executive house with a 3 - 4 car garage in the suburbs of Toronto.
My family considers me "poor" because I have driven the same car for 14 yrs and because I do not shop at Holt Renfrew and Bayview Village. Thus my not so great relationship with them. They would consider the fact that I have been looking to buy a used car as cause for concern. It's just not a successful thing to do. I disagree.
Because I've chosen to live differently from them means I have been cut off from my family all this time. They withdrew from me so that I could learn just how tough life is and learn their approach is right. I bought a small SUV because I needed the room to move myself out of the house while they stood watching.
They have been hoping I would come back to them after being defeated by life and beg to be taken back. It hasn't happened yet and I don't expect it to. I have too much pride and I've worked too hard for that to happen. It's amazing how much stuff gets drudged up because of a car purchase.
D says it will go to a great new home and will serve the next person really well. That doesn't make me feel much better. It's just that it is so well designed for someone practical like me. I dislike center consoles and it is one of the few that doesn't have one.
I guess I'm one of those people who get attached to things. At various points, I reverted back to wanting to fix it. Then D gets on his mini rampage about how it is time to move on to a safer, newer car. Something that has that better stereo you want. Something that has a bit more pep than 125HP.
That it is OK to spend money on yourself and show your success a little. I will own up to that. No one but a handful of people and a whole lot of bloggers knows that I do all this travelling and own more than one home.
How I dress certainly doesn't give anything away. I do use a few nice purses though but it would be interpreted as fairly normal as a lot of women splurge on a nice purse.
But a snappy car draws attention and I'm not used to that. D thinks I ought to get used to some of that and to feel proud of myself for my hard work over the years.
I come from a culture where it is very normal to show success with material things. I've rebelled against it for most of my life. If I was "normal" according to upbringing, I'd be on my 4th car by now and own a giant executive house with a 3 - 4 car garage in the suburbs of Toronto.
My family considers me "poor" because I have driven the same car for 14 yrs and because I do not shop at Holt Renfrew and Bayview Village. Thus my not so great relationship with them. They would consider the fact that I have been looking to buy a used car as cause for concern. It's just not a successful thing to do. I disagree.
Because I've chosen to live differently from them means I have been cut off from my family all this time. They withdrew from me so that I could learn just how tough life is and learn their approach is right. I bought a small SUV because I needed the room to move myself out of the house while they stood watching.
They have been hoping I would come back to them after being defeated by life and beg to be taken back. It hasn't happened yet and I don't expect it to. I have too much pride and I've worked too hard for that to happen. It's amazing how much stuff gets drudged up because of a car purchase.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
All Ready
Finally got my retina scan done for my Nexus account. It was a bit of a process as for some reason, the computer wasn't able to capture mine easily. So 12 tries later and me almost blinded, I was done.
Then they walk you through a simulation of how you get through passport control and immigration. That part was easy enough and literally takes 2 minutes. We'll get to test it out next time we travel.
The car dealer is willing to take my car in as a trade for a very minimal amount of money. D feels we can sell it privately for much more. I like the convenience of being able to drop off an old car and swap it for your new one, especially when the dealer is 1 1/2 hr away. We are going to give it til Wed.
Then they walk you through a simulation of how you get through passport control and immigration. That part was easy enough and literally takes 2 minutes. We'll get to test it out next time we travel.
The car dealer is willing to take my car in as a trade for a very minimal amount of money. D feels we can sell it privately for much more. I like the convenience of being able to drop off an old car and swap it for your new one, especially when the dealer is 1 1/2 hr away. We are going to give it til Wed.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Contrasting Day
Friday was a day of contrasts!
I start it by putting a counter offer on a nice used luxury automobile. An hour later, I find out my offer was accepted.
I sign up for salsa lessons and an art class, all to start in May.
The middle of my day came with news of a friend's son being diagnosed with some form of liver disease. He is currently undergoing extensive testing.
I end the day with news from a dear friend who is 7 months pregnant that she has left her partner due to his ongoing drug habit.
As she is kinda dependent on his income, I don't know how she will be able to afford diapers, daycare etc. Thank goodness she has family nearby who will pitch in.
I start it by putting a counter offer on a nice used luxury automobile. An hour later, I find out my offer was accepted.
I sign up for salsa lessons and an art class, all to start in May.
The middle of my day came with news of a friend's son being diagnosed with some form of liver disease. He is currently undergoing extensive testing.
I end the day with news from a dear friend who is 7 months pregnant that she has left her partner due to his ongoing drug habit.
As she is kinda dependent on his income, I don't know how she will be able to afford diapers, daycare etc. Thank goodness she has family nearby who will pitch in.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Clean Out
My spring clean out has officially started. A half garbage bag of clothing is destined for donation. Next step will be paper recycling and book donation.
Tonight will be pretty quiet. Our dinner guests ended up getting sick so we issued a rain check. Consequently we have a ton of leftovers which freeze well.
I have a burning desire to tie up all the various loose ends that exist in my life. From hemming pants to sorting through piles of stuff.
If I end up staying home for my holiday, I'll be doing more of that. Believe it or not, I'm actually excited at the prospect of it.
I haven't cancelled anything yet as I am giving myself the option of a last minute take off. My absolute deadline is Wed. If I overdo the clean out, I may just want to take off.
Tonight will be pretty quiet. Our dinner guests ended up getting sick so we issued a rain check. Consequently we have a ton of leftovers which freeze well.
I have a burning desire to tie up all the various loose ends that exist in my life. From hemming pants to sorting through piles of stuff.
If I end up staying home for my holiday, I'll be doing more of that. Believe it or not, I'm actually excited at the prospect of it.
I haven't cancelled anything yet as I am giving myself the option of a last minute take off. My absolute deadline is Wed. If I overdo the clean out, I may just want to take off.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Disposable Housing
D works with someone who is in the process of buying and selling their 4th house. Each time they do it, they've lost money. We don't get it.
The first time, it was because they realized they didn't like old houses as much as they thought.
The second time, it was because the new house didn't have enough character and felt bland.
The third time, it was because they wanted to try moving out to the country for some more space and then found it too isolating.
Now, the forth time, they want to be in a city where there are more services and are hoping the perfect house will finally be found.
Each of the homes have needed $20K - $25K worth of work so that has meant an equity line of credit which eventually gets wrapped into the next mortgage.
The time frames of house ownership have been between 2 - 4 years with the ages of this couple in the 30's.
If there was ever a scenario of "disposable housing", this is it.
The first time, it was because they realized they didn't like old houses as much as they thought.
The second time, it was because the new house didn't have enough character and felt bland.
The third time, it was because they wanted to try moving out to the country for some more space and then found it too isolating.
Now, the forth time, they want to be in a city where there are more services and are hoping the perfect house will finally be found.
Each of the homes have needed $20K - $25K worth of work so that has meant an equity line of credit which eventually gets wrapped into the next mortgage.
The time frames of house ownership have been between 2 - 4 years with the ages of this couple in the 30's.
If there was ever a scenario of "disposable housing", this is it.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Indecision
It is a 3 mortgage payment month. Because D gets paid bi-weekly, we don't need to make any special plans or arrangements.
Back when I was on my own, I did have to build up extra as I got paid bi-monthly. I don't miss those days.
It is a good week for self care. I'm treating myself to a facial this morning and had a massage earlier in the week.
Believe it or not, I still haven't made a call on my vacation yet. I just know I'm taking the time off regardless. The thought of having time to organize my life at home is tempting right now.
Haven't made any decisions about my car either. This has not been a good month for making up my mind it seems.
Back when I was on my own, I did have to build up extra as I got paid bi-monthly. I don't miss those days.
It is a good week for self care. I'm treating myself to a facial this morning and had a massage earlier in the week.
Believe it or not, I still haven't made a call on my vacation yet. I just know I'm taking the time off regardless. The thought of having time to organize my life at home is tempting right now.
Haven't made any decisions about my car either. This has not been a good month for making up my mind it seems.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Gift Card
I'm not one to buy for the express purpose of getting a reward but tonight we were at our local drug store and a poster advertised a $20 gas card if we spent $75.
We were there to see if our vitamins were really on sale. I needed to get some face cream plus other household stuff. And another big reason to go was so I could prepay for the Harry Potter DVD coming out this week.
All in all, we ended up spending around $95 and received the gas card. It was a lucky stumble upon tonight. With gasoline prices on the up and up, a gas card is a valued reward for preplanned spending.
We were there to see if our vitamins were really on sale. I needed to get some face cream plus other household stuff. And another big reason to go was so I could prepay for the Harry Potter DVD coming out this week.
All in all, we ended up spending around $95 and received the gas card. It was a lucky stumble upon tonight. With gasoline prices on the up and up, a gas card is a valued reward for preplanned spending.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Sharing Space
Well, it looks like I'll be moving offices again. In our search for new space ever since finding out our current building is undergoing zoning changes, we stumbled on a pretty incredible office sharing deal.
The person who is leasing the space is wanting to share it as it is not being used part of the time. Business wise, she works in the same sector as me so is complimentary.
Best part is the rent. She has calculated it based on amount used. That's pretty amazing. Because I work part time hours, my rent would be $500/month and I wouldn't even have to buy most supplies or clean.
I like the office very much. It's small and professional. Nicer than what I have right now and the location is much better. It wouldn't have been anything I'd sign up for myself because I would have found the entire lease too expensive but a share of it is amazing.
Ideally, I'd like to finish my career in this location. And she isn't going anywhere for a long time as there is a 2nd child on the way and her spouse is a prominent self employed professional in town. Plus they just bought a house.
Another visit or 2 and I may be inking a deal. My current lease is up at the end of June.
The person who is leasing the space is wanting to share it as it is not being used part of the time. Business wise, she works in the same sector as me so is complimentary.
Best part is the rent. She has calculated it based on amount used. That's pretty amazing. Because I work part time hours, my rent would be $500/month and I wouldn't even have to buy most supplies or clean.
I like the office very much. It's small and professional. Nicer than what I have right now and the location is much better. It wouldn't have been anything I'd sign up for myself because I would have found the entire lease too expensive but a share of it is amazing.
Ideally, I'd like to finish my career in this location. And she isn't going anywhere for a long time as there is a 2nd child on the way and her spouse is a prominent self employed professional in town. Plus they just bought a house.
Another visit or 2 and I may be inking a deal. My current lease is up at the end of June.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Portable Internet
We signed up for the "turbo hub" (portable Internet device) and tested it out at the cottage this weekend.
Our verdict is, with one computer, slightly slower than home but will work just fine. With 2 laptops, it slows down quite a bit.
D found out there is an antenna you can buy which is supposed to boost signals so we'll see how that works once it comes in.
We lucked out with the set up cost. The hubs were just marked down a day before we arrived to buy it so we got to save $20. We signed up for a 2 year contract at about $35/month.
This hub will be replacing our Internet at the ski condo. Yearly costs are still higher though.
The real gain is the ability to go to the cottage on a Thursday night as D works remote Fridays allowing us to avoid the typical Friday night cottage traffic. That in itself will raise our quality of living.
And on long weekends, we would just come home on the Sunday, again avoiding traffic and getting time at home too, rather than rolling into town the day before going back to work.
Our verdict is, with one computer, slightly slower than home but will work just fine. With 2 laptops, it slows down quite a bit.
D found out there is an antenna you can buy which is supposed to boost signals so we'll see how that works once it comes in.
We lucked out with the set up cost. The hubs were just marked down a day before we arrived to buy it so we got to save $20. We signed up for a 2 year contract at about $35/month.
This hub will be replacing our Internet at the ski condo. Yearly costs are still higher though.
The real gain is the ability to go to the cottage on a Thursday night as D works remote Fridays allowing us to avoid the typical Friday night cottage traffic. That in itself will raise our quality of living.
And on long weekends, we would just come home on the Sunday, again avoiding traffic and getting time at home too, rather than rolling into town the day before going back to work.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Interesting Turn
The mechanic's estimate for my car came to $1200 taxes in consisting of my rear brakes, a new battery, and a couple of tie rods with alignment after.
None of which are really pressing. I brought my car home to think about it and paid the $35 check up bill.
D gets a call from the mechanic yesterday inquiring if I wanted to sell my car as he has a customer looking for something his son can drive for the next 4 years at university.
This was a long time customer who trusted the opinion of the shop keeper who thought of us as he knew my car. We suggested a price of $2500 and I'd throw in my set of 4 Blizzaks (no rims) which are good for another season or 2. He said he was interested.
I felt pretty flattered. D thought it was a sign I needed to finally let go of my old car and move onto my next vehicle.
It made me sad to think of giving her up. Mind you, I was sad too throwing out my long time favourite pair of pants a month ago.
If I can muster up some time today, I'm going to test drive a few more used cars.
None of which are really pressing. I brought my car home to think about it and paid the $35 check up bill.
D gets a call from the mechanic yesterday inquiring if I wanted to sell my car as he has a customer looking for something his son can drive for the next 4 years at university.
This was a long time customer who trusted the opinion of the shop keeper who thought of us as he knew my car. We suggested a price of $2500 and I'd throw in my set of 4 Blizzaks (no rims) which are good for another season or 2. He said he was interested.
I felt pretty flattered. D thought it was a sign I needed to finally let go of my old car and move onto my next vehicle.
It made me sad to think of giving her up. Mind you, I was sad too throwing out my long time favourite pair of pants a month ago.
If I can muster up some time today, I'm going to test drive a few more used cars.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Don't Get It
(It's my car's turn to be in today. Crossing fingers it won't cost more than it is worth. I can still sell mine for around $2500.)
This seems to be the month for a lot of my girlfriends' kids' birthdays. So I've been hearing a lot of moaning and groaning about how much kids' birthday parties are costing these days -- around $2000.
Normally, I wouldn't speak up about things like this as we don't have kids so don't understand the need for 1st, 2nd, 3rd birthday parties but when the subject of party budget came up, I felt the need to voice my opinion as a 3rd party observer.
We covered a number of good points. One was why are you even doing this? The most common reason was for the pictures so that when their kids grow up, they can look back at what their 1st birthday party consisted of.
My view was a 1 yr old doesn't care about their birthday. And I don't think a 16 yr old looking back at 1 yr old birthday photos are going to care much either. If you are doing it so that your kid won't accuse you of being a bad parent for not doing it, then you need to question your definition of "good parent".
Well, that went over well. I think this falls under the same umbrella as substituting a baby for a doll or playing house with a real house or planning a wedding without realizing what marriage means.
This seems to be the month for a lot of my girlfriends' kids' birthdays. So I've been hearing a lot of moaning and groaning about how much kids' birthday parties are costing these days -- around $2000.
Normally, I wouldn't speak up about things like this as we don't have kids so don't understand the need for 1st, 2nd, 3rd birthday parties but when the subject of party budget came up, I felt the need to voice my opinion as a 3rd party observer.
We covered a number of good points. One was why are you even doing this? The most common reason was for the pictures so that when their kids grow up, they can look back at what their 1st birthday party consisted of.
My view was a 1 yr old doesn't care about their birthday. And I don't think a 16 yr old looking back at 1 yr old birthday photos are going to care much either. If you are doing it so that your kid won't accuse you of being a bad parent for not doing it, then you need to question your definition of "good parent".
Well, that went over well. I think this falls under the same umbrella as substituting a baby for a doll or playing house with a real house or planning a wedding without realizing what marriage means.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Car Stuff Update
Quick post this morning as I have a meeting to fly to shortly.
Just got a phone call from D, whose wagon is in for snow tire removal. Apparently they have found a loose ball joint as well as some cracked belts. Total fix price $550.
Something told me yesterday not to put that leftover $1000 towards the mortgage just yet...glad I listened.
It was supposed to have been my car going in today but we just got back into car hunt mode so will be postponing it until we find out more.
Finally test drove a 328i, 335i and a couple of Cayennes S's. I ran out of gas before we got to the A4s and S4s.
I can understand now, how the test drives alone can talk someone into sign papers right away. Those cars sell themselves. I've learned a lot about the differences between Japanese vs German power.
No decision yet on my trip. I will need to make up my mind this week.
Just got a phone call from D, whose wagon is in for snow tire removal. Apparently they have found a loose ball joint as well as some cracked belts. Total fix price $550.
Something told me yesterday not to put that leftover $1000 towards the mortgage just yet...glad I listened.
It was supposed to have been my car going in today but we just got back into car hunt mode so will be postponing it until we find out more.
Finally test drove a 328i, 335i and a couple of Cayennes S's. I ran out of gas before we got to the A4s and S4s.
I can understand now, how the test drives alone can talk someone into sign papers right away. Those cars sell themselves. I've learned a lot about the differences between Japanese vs German power.
No decision yet on my trip. I will need to make up my mind this week.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Keep It Coming
A few days ago, I posted about putting some extra savings into our mortgage prepayment. Well, the origin of the savings is D's tax account for when he worked contract for 6 months last year.
He had put aside too much money, it turns out.
Today, he told me there is another $800 left from that account after filing and paying his taxes. Great news I said! But it gets better.
This year, we got our cottage closing for free. It is the 2nd time in the 8 yrs we've owned it. We'll take it, we said! The amount we saved is a little over $200.
Finally, D got a call for some part time contract work lasting 6 - 8 weeks. He has accepted which means some extra spending money for us.
When there is leftover regular income, it does towards debt repayment. The $1000 minus my car repair (rear brakes) will go towards mortgage.
When there is extra income, it gets split between us as fun money. I pop my share into my dream account.
He had put aside too much money, it turns out.
Today, he told me there is another $800 left from that account after filing and paying his taxes. Great news I said! But it gets better.
This year, we got our cottage closing for free. It is the 2nd time in the 8 yrs we've owned it. We'll take it, we said! The amount we saved is a little over $200.
Finally, D got a call for some part time contract work lasting 6 - 8 weeks. He has accepted which means some extra spending money for us.
When there is leftover regular income, it does towards debt repayment. The $1000 minus my car repair (rear brakes) will go towards mortgage.
When there is extra income, it gets split between us as fun money. I pop my share into my dream account.
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