On the one hand, they say to park far away from your destination, in order to get exercise walking the distance between. Depends on the area and how well you know it.
However, when it is dark, park as close as you can and in a well-lighted area. No valuables should be visible in the car. Lock the car doors.
When alone, use the elevator instead of the stairs.
A few notes about getting into your car in a parking lot, or parking garage:
a) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, and in the back seat. The less clutter there is in your car, the easier it will be to note that something is wrong.
b) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. You could be pulled into a van while attempting to get into the car.
d) Have your car keys out and ready before you reach your car.
e) Once in your car, lock the doors and leave. Do not sit and organize your purse or check the receipts, etc.
The main thing is to be alert and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on suspicious-looking people, and be ready to run or scream. Hopefully you will at least be able to get into your car, lock the doors, and drive off.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Internet Safety
Supposedly the techno-savvy younger generation is educating their elders about internet security, but the techno-savvy generation seems to make mistakes...
You hear that prospective employees and college counselors and whoever may be important to your future is able to look at your MySpace and Facebook pages to get an idea (realistic or not) about your personality and work ethics.
So why aren't you cleaning up your pages? So what if it's someone else posting those dirty jokes and questionable pictures. Take a gander, then delete it. And what is it with all these pictures of people holding glasses and cups, doing gang signs, and making faces? If you are getting your picture taken, whether at a bar or at a wedding, put that glass down!!
Okay, now what about your kids?
1) Keep the computer in a common area. (Your kids should just assume that you can look over their shoulders at any time, and they should be able to look over yours...)
2) Monitor your child's activity online.
3) Install and use parent-control software to limit access. You might like to know what kind of access their friends have.
4) Know who their online friends are.
5) Disable the webcam.
6) Don't give a child a cell phone with a camera and Internet access.
7) Educate your child about online hazards.
a) Once online, an embarrassing photo or message cannot be reversed, and may become public.
b) Predators can find you online, on social networks, chat rooms, and gaming sites.
8) Set rules:
a) Never give out full name, address, city of residence, phone numbers, name or location of school, or age to anyone. If "Grandma" wants that information, she should be asking the parent. (I.e., it may not be "Grandma" who is asking.)
b) Never post or upload (or download) anything online that they wouldn't want to be seen on the front page of the newspaper.
c) Never send pictures of themselves online to people they don't know.
d) Never respond to (or initiate in anger) any messages that are belligerent, harassing, obscene, or
suggestive.
e) Never meet face-to-face with someone they meet online.
9) Encourage civil behavior. Be nice, or if you can't think of anything nice to say, say nothing at all. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
10) Encourage critical thinking. Don't believe everything you see on the internet. Be wary of strangers and their offer of money, gifts, etc.
You hear that prospective employees and college counselors and whoever may be important to your future is able to look at your MySpace and Facebook pages to get an idea (realistic or not) about your personality and work ethics.
So why aren't you cleaning up your pages? So what if it's someone else posting those dirty jokes and questionable pictures. Take a gander, then delete it. And what is it with all these pictures of people holding glasses and cups, doing gang signs, and making faces? If you are getting your picture taken, whether at a bar or at a wedding, put that glass down!!
Okay, now what about your kids?
1) Keep the computer in a common area. (Your kids should just assume that you can look over their shoulders at any time, and they should be able to look over yours...)
2) Monitor your child's activity online.
3) Install and use parent-control software to limit access. You might like to know what kind of access their friends have.
4) Know who their online friends are.
5) Disable the webcam.
6) Don't give a child a cell phone with a camera and Internet access.
7) Educate your child about online hazards.
a) Once online, an embarrassing photo or message cannot be reversed, and may become public.
b) Predators can find you online, on social networks, chat rooms, and gaming sites.
8) Set rules:
a) Never give out full name, address, city of residence, phone numbers, name or location of school, or age to anyone. If "Grandma" wants that information, she should be asking the parent. (I.e., it may not be "Grandma" who is asking.)
b) Never post or upload (or download) anything online that they wouldn't want to be seen on the front page of the newspaper.
c) Never send pictures of themselves online to people they don't know.
d) Never respond to (or initiate in anger) any messages that are belligerent, harassing, obscene, or
suggestive.
e) Never meet face-to-face with someone they meet online.
9) Encourage civil behavior. Be nice, or if you can't think of anything nice to say, say nothing at all. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
10) Encourage critical thinking. Don't believe everything you see on the internet. Be wary of strangers and their offer of money, gifts, etc.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Bounce Fabric Softener Sheets
This is another one of those viral e-mails. As I have said before, I would avoid having any dryer sheets in my home, but you might learn something useful here. When you check snopes.com, most of this is baloney...
1. It will chase ants away when you lay a sheet near them.
Baloney. If you have ants and have cleaned the area of the food that is attracting them, and caulked up all the holes where they enter, then you could try a spicy blend to keep them away (cinnamon, basil, pepper, spearmint). But who wants spices on the floors? Clean with vinegar, and the vinegar itself is a repellent!
2. It takes the odor out of books and photo albums that don’t get opened too often.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda. Sprinkle it between pages and leave open to air out. Then brush out the baking soda.
3. Repels mosquitoes. Tie a sheet through a belt loop when you are outdoors.
Baloney. May even attract them. Again, you can make your own with herbs and essentials oils, but where do you find all that stuff? The best bet, although expensive, is lemon eucalyptus oil.
4. Eliminates static electricity from TV screen, wipe screen with a used sheet to keep dust from resettling.
Well, duh, it's used for static cling. But it will make the TV screen streaky. Try wiping with... vinegar!
5. Dissolve soap scum from shower doors by cleaning with a sheet.
Okay, may do the trick, but with elbow grease. Can use WD-40, but that's another petroleum product. Prevent soap scum from developing with regular vinegar clean-ups!
6. Freshen air in your home. Place a sheet in a drawer or hang in the closet.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda or cedar blocks.
7. Prevent thread from tangling. Run a threaded needle through a sheet before sewing.
Well... you can also run the thread across a wax candle, but do you really have that much of a problem with tangling?
8. Prevent musty suitcases. Place a sheet inside empty luggage before storing.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
9. Freshen air in your car. Place a sheet under front seat.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
10. Clean baked goods from pan. Put sheet in pan, fill with water, let sit overnight, and sponge clean. Antistatic agent weakens bond.
Baloney. If you have a problem with things sticking to your baking pans, then invest in parchment to line baking sheets.
11. Eliminate odors in waste baskets, Place a sheet in bottom of basket.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
12. Collect cat hair.
Baloney. I would take a piece of packing tape, and put it sticky-side out around my hand. Then pat at the hair, while turning the tape to a clean area to capture more hair. Replace tape as needed.
13. Eliminate static electricity from venetian blinds. Wipe blinds with a sheet to prevent dust from resettling.
Well, duh, it's used for static cling. Try wiping with vinegar.
14. Wipe up sawdust from drilling or sandpapering. A used sheet is like tack cloth.
Baloney. Use packing tape, or better yet, vacuum!
15. Eliminate odors in dirty laundry. Place a sheet in bottom of laundry bag or hamper.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda, or do the laundry!
16. Deodorize shoes or sneakers. Place a sheet in your shoes overnight.
It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
17. Golfers keep a sheet in their back pockets to keep the bees away.
Baloney. Leave the bees alone.
1. It will chase ants away when you lay a sheet near them.
Baloney. If you have ants and have cleaned the area of the food that is attracting them, and caulked up all the holes where they enter, then you could try a spicy blend to keep them away (cinnamon, basil, pepper, spearmint). But who wants spices on the floors? Clean with vinegar, and the vinegar itself is a repellent!
2. It takes the odor out of books and photo albums that don’t get opened too often.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda. Sprinkle it between pages and leave open to air out. Then brush out the baking soda.
3. Repels mosquitoes. Tie a sheet through a belt loop when you are outdoors.
Baloney. May even attract them. Again, you can make your own with herbs and essentials oils, but where do you find all that stuff? The best bet, although expensive, is lemon eucalyptus oil.
4. Eliminates static electricity from TV screen, wipe screen with a used sheet to keep dust from resettling.
Well, duh, it's used for static cling. But it will make the TV screen streaky. Try wiping with... vinegar!
5. Dissolve soap scum from shower doors by cleaning with a sheet.
Okay, may do the trick, but with elbow grease. Can use WD-40, but that's another petroleum product. Prevent soap scum from developing with regular vinegar clean-ups!
6. Freshen air in your home. Place a sheet in a drawer or hang in the closet.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda or cedar blocks.
7. Prevent thread from tangling. Run a threaded needle through a sheet before sewing.
Well... you can also run the thread across a wax candle, but do you really have that much of a problem with tangling?
8. Prevent musty suitcases. Place a sheet inside empty luggage before storing.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
9. Freshen air in your car. Place a sheet under front seat.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
10. Clean baked goods from pan. Put sheet in pan, fill with water, let sit overnight, and sponge clean. Antistatic agent weakens bond.
Baloney. If you have a problem with things sticking to your baking pans, then invest in parchment to line baking sheets.
11. Eliminate odors in waste baskets, Place a sheet in bottom of basket.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
12. Collect cat hair.
Baloney. I would take a piece of packing tape, and put it sticky-side out around my hand. Then pat at the hair, while turning the tape to a clean area to capture more hair. Replace tape as needed.
13. Eliminate static electricity from venetian blinds. Wipe blinds with a sheet to prevent dust from resettling.
Well, duh, it's used for static cling. Try wiping with vinegar.
14. Wipe up sawdust from drilling or sandpapering. A used sheet is like tack cloth.
Baloney. Use packing tape, or better yet, vacuum!
15. Eliminate odors in dirty laundry. Place a sheet in bottom of laundry bag or hamper.
Well... It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda, or do the laundry!
16. Deodorize shoes or sneakers. Place a sheet in your shoes overnight.
It replaces the smell with its own, and who wants that petroleum sheen on everything? Here I would use baking soda.
17. Golfers keep a sheet in their back pockets to keep the bees away.
Baloney. Leave the bees alone.
Criticizing
Back during my dark days of depression, everything irritated me. I remember criticizing your dad in front of you, with the purpose that you would learn what not to do or what you should do. We can't remember specifics (perhaps you can tell us what you remember!), but for example I would say he needed to help me more with housecleaning. My naive thought was that all the children would then learn to help their spouses/roommates more with housework.
This is wrong on so many counts!
Now, when hearing someone criticize another, I realized that what was really learned was that it is okay to criticize. Aargh! I know now it is NOT okay to criticize, at least in public! Oh, we can complain to our confidantes about the annoying behaviors of others, and vent our irritations to a close sibling, but we should hold our tongues in a public setting. And kids should not be privy to the troubles of their parents.
It is also "wrong" in that I was depressed and irritable, so no matter what your dad did, I was critical. If you find yourself being irritable, and wanting to complain about things (that didn't bother you at all in the past), look for the source of irritation. Of course, my clinical depression was then sorted out by medication, so I no longer was as irritable, nor as critical. (I fear I am naturally a critical person, though. But don't worry, the person of whom I am most critical is... myself.)
Even in my "normal times", I would occasionally start an argument with your dad. I eventually realized that we had a "fight" every time the night before your grandparents were to arrive for a visit. So my anxiety at the in-laws coming made me irritable and critical... (Now I am no longer anxious when they come!)
When I see others being critical, it appears "wrong" that they are making a big deal about some little thing that hardly matters. That's easy for me to say now, because when I was depressed, everything was a big deal. But if you feel like criticizing something, take a step back and ask if it really matters.
If it does matter, be specific. Needing more help with the housework doesn't give anyone a clue about what they can actually do. I have realized that no one can actually read my mind, and no one thinks like I do, so it's less likely they will be able to guess what I need.
And finally, can we make our criticism in a positive way? Maybe not, but starting out with a thanks for anything else that person does or means to you may help!
Dialog between men and women is another whole blog, but I can now say that I used to assume what your dad thought and felt and ... I was wrong!
It's odd how now I feel hurt whenever I see someone criticizing another in front of an audience ( I inwardly wince). Imagine how much hurt I was causing to everyone involved in the past! Je me regret! (I'm sorry, I regret it..)
This is wrong on so many counts!
Now, when hearing someone criticize another, I realized that what was really learned was that it is okay to criticize. Aargh! I know now it is NOT okay to criticize, at least in public! Oh, we can complain to our confidantes about the annoying behaviors of others, and vent our irritations to a close sibling, but we should hold our tongues in a public setting. And kids should not be privy to the troubles of their parents.
It is also "wrong" in that I was depressed and irritable, so no matter what your dad did, I was critical. If you find yourself being irritable, and wanting to complain about things (that didn't bother you at all in the past), look for the source of irritation. Of course, my clinical depression was then sorted out by medication, so I no longer was as irritable, nor as critical. (I fear I am naturally a critical person, though. But don't worry, the person of whom I am most critical is... myself.)
Even in my "normal times", I would occasionally start an argument with your dad. I eventually realized that we had a "fight" every time the night before your grandparents were to arrive for a visit. So my anxiety at the in-laws coming made me irritable and critical... (Now I am no longer anxious when they come!)
When I see others being critical, it appears "wrong" that they are making a big deal about some little thing that hardly matters. That's easy for me to say now, because when I was depressed, everything was a big deal. But if you feel like criticizing something, take a step back and ask if it really matters.
If it does matter, be specific. Needing more help with the housework doesn't give anyone a clue about what they can actually do. I have realized that no one can actually read my mind, and no one thinks like I do, so it's less likely they will be able to guess what I need.
And finally, can we make our criticism in a positive way? Maybe not, but starting out with a thanks for anything else that person does or means to you may help!
Dialog between men and women is another whole blog, but I can now say that I used to assume what your dad thought and felt and ... I was wrong!
It's odd how now I feel hurt whenever I see someone criticizing another in front of an audience ( I inwardly wince). Imagine how much hurt I was causing to everyone involved in the past! Je me regret! (I'm sorry, I regret it..)
Housecleaning 101
You know that I like to use vinegar (white distilled vinegar) and have already referenced the 1,001 Uses of Vinegar (http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/). It will disinfect, deodorize, and remove stains.
Housecleaning that is cheap, green, and healthy requires very little equipment. I use a rag, a rag towel, vinegar, baking soda, a Swiffer, and a vacuum cleaner! People don't realize that green-living saves not only the environment, but money as well!
The main principle of house cleaning is "from the top down". I could never understand seeing my girl scouts sweeping the floor before wiping off counters. They then had to sweep again. Start by wiping down ceiling light fixtures, ceiling fans, then window and door frames, tops of hanging picture frames and mirrors, then furniture. Vacuuming the floor should be last, after cleaning the baseboards!
Dusting: One of those microfiber "feather" dusters can do a temporary dusting, but a good dusting requires a damp cloth to wipe off the dust, and a clean cloth to wipe and "polish" the surface dry and to remove water spots. You can do this on polished wood, as well as counters, glass, porcelain, and chrome. Be sure to rinse the damp cloth often to remove dirt and dust, so that you aren't just swirling around the dust on your furniture. On surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom, I will splash a little vinegar on the damp cloth to do the wiping. It has been suggested to fill a spray-bottle with equal parts water and vinegar as an all-purpose cleaner, and you may find this easier to do. I just don't want to dirty or even own another plastic bottle!
Windows: You could use that all-purpose cleaner bottle of equal parts water and vinegar, or fill another bottle with water and 1/4 cup vinegar to clean glass and mirrors. Hey, I just splash vinegar on a damp cloth and clean. Then wipe dry with newspaper for a streak-free finish.
I have three levels of housecleaning:
1) Manly cleaning means a swipe with the feather duster and vacuuming only the floor surfaces that I can see.
2) Regular cleaning means dusting with a damp rag and removing, cleaning and replacing all items on the dusted furniture. All funiture is moved to make sure every square inch of floor surface is vacuumed.
3) Spring cleaning means everything is removed from shelves, closets, drawers, etc., is cleaned, and is replaced only if it is to be kept. Things that have outlived their usefulness get taken to Goodwill, or trashed if no longer usable.
Of course, the actual housecleaning that gets done is a variant of all three levels!
Housecleaning that is cheap, green, and healthy requires very little equipment. I use a rag, a rag towel, vinegar, baking soda, a Swiffer, and a vacuum cleaner! People don't realize that green-living saves not only the environment, but money as well!
The main principle of house cleaning is "from the top down". I could never understand seeing my girl scouts sweeping the floor before wiping off counters. They then had to sweep again. Start by wiping down ceiling light fixtures, ceiling fans, then window and door frames, tops of hanging picture frames and mirrors, then furniture. Vacuuming the floor should be last, after cleaning the baseboards!
Dusting: One of those microfiber "feather" dusters can do a temporary dusting, but a good dusting requires a damp cloth to wipe off the dust, and a clean cloth to wipe and "polish" the surface dry and to remove water spots. You can do this on polished wood, as well as counters, glass, porcelain, and chrome. Be sure to rinse the damp cloth often to remove dirt and dust, so that you aren't just swirling around the dust on your furniture. On surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom, I will splash a little vinegar on the damp cloth to do the wiping. It has been suggested to fill a spray-bottle with equal parts water and vinegar as an all-purpose cleaner, and you may find this easier to do. I just don't want to dirty or even own another plastic bottle!
Windows: You could use that all-purpose cleaner bottle of equal parts water and vinegar, or fill another bottle with water and 1/4 cup vinegar to clean glass and mirrors. Hey, I just splash vinegar on a damp cloth and clean. Then wipe dry with newspaper for a streak-free finish.
I have three levels of housecleaning:
1) Manly cleaning means a swipe with the feather duster and vacuuming only the floor surfaces that I can see.
2) Regular cleaning means dusting with a damp rag and removing, cleaning and replacing all items on the dusted furniture. All funiture is moved to make sure every square inch of floor surface is vacuumed.
3) Spring cleaning means everything is removed from shelves, closets, drawers, etc., is cleaned, and is replaced only if it is to be kept. Things that have outlived their usefulness get taken to Goodwill, or trashed if no longer usable.
Of course, the actual housecleaning that gets done is a variant of all three levels!
Laundry - Drying
Drying laundered clothing should be simple - right?
If time and space and homeowners' associations permit, hanging clothes on a line outdoors is the best! In terms of energy conservation and money, that is. The dried clothes may be a little stiff when dry, but should shake out easily. If not, you may be using too much laundry detergent.
Okay, most of us use the dryer.
1) Make sure clothes are not sopping wet. The better wrung-out the clothes are, the faster they will dry. Sometimes the last spin cycle on your washing machine needs to be repeated to get most of the water out of the clothes. The best thing about front-loading washing machines is that they do a great job of wringing out water. (And don't leave damp clothes in the washing machine too long, they may get musty and moldy.)
2) When transferring items from the washing machine to the dryer, shake them out. That tightly wadded and twisted sheet will not dry as fast as the one you shake open. And that pair of underpants wadded inside the twisted sheet probably won't dry at all!
3) It's best to remove things from the dryer as soon as the dryer is stopped. Immediately hanging and folding clothes minimizes wrinkles. But I think that is no longer a "must-do" in today's world.
4) Clean the lint trap after each load. You will see how much lint is accumulated. A film of lint prevents air circulation and slows the drying process. The dryer vent should also be cleaned periodically (annually) to keep the vent open to allow more efficient drying. I am not so worried about a possible fire if the vent is blocked, as I am of damp clothes, and the electricity being used as the dryer continues to run and run!
DRYER SHEETS or Bounce:
Do not use. There are many uses for Bounce sheets which can be another blog, but they should be avoided altogether. Just think of them as sheets soaked with petroleum, and that might make you stay away from them.
1) Fabric softener? If your clothes are coming out that stiff, it's because of too much soap or laundry detergent. Cut back on the amount you use. Washing clothes is more about the tossing and turning than it is about the detergent. No need to worry about using too little detergent.
2) Static cling? Natural fabrics (except silk) don't have static cling problems. Using vinegar in the laundry machine will reduce static cling. Or put a small safety pin in the waistband or inner seam of the offending item when you are wearing it.
3) There is no need to add a scent to your clothing, either through the dryer sheets or detergent. If your clothes are clean and without a smell, that's fantastic! But if you must make your clothes smell nice, than use something natural, like real dried lavendar or cedar blocks.
4) Dryer sheets tend to add an invisible "sheen" to items, and is especially a problem with towels. Try drying a washed car with a towel that was dried with a dryer sheet. Doesn't absorb any water!
5) Dryer sheets tend to line your lint trap with an invisible "sheen" so that your dryer has to work harder. Keep that lint trap clean!
6) Dryer sheets tend to coat the electronic moisture sensor with residue, and your dryer will not run efficiently.
There is too much evidence of petroleum products causing cancer and the like, so I stay away from fabric softener dryer sheets.
If time and space and homeowners' associations permit, hanging clothes on a line outdoors is the best! In terms of energy conservation and money, that is. The dried clothes may be a little stiff when dry, but should shake out easily. If not, you may be using too much laundry detergent.
Okay, most of us use the dryer.
1) Make sure clothes are not sopping wet. The better wrung-out the clothes are, the faster they will dry. Sometimes the last spin cycle on your washing machine needs to be repeated to get most of the water out of the clothes. The best thing about front-loading washing machines is that they do a great job of wringing out water. (And don't leave damp clothes in the washing machine too long, they may get musty and moldy.)
2) When transferring items from the washing machine to the dryer, shake them out. That tightly wadded and twisted sheet will not dry as fast as the one you shake open. And that pair of underpants wadded inside the twisted sheet probably won't dry at all!
3) It's best to remove things from the dryer as soon as the dryer is stopped. Immediately hanging and folding clothes minimizes wrinkles. But I think that is no longer a "must-do" in today's world.
4) Clean the lint trap after each load. You will see how much lint is accumulated. A film of lint prevents air circulation and slows the drying process. The dryer vent should also be cleaned periodically (annually) to keep the vent open to allow more efficient drying. I am not so worried about a possible fire if the vent is blocked, as I am of damp clothes, and the electricity being used as the dryer continues to run and run!
DRYER SHEETS or Bounce:
Do not use. There are many uses for Bounce sheets which can be another blog, but they should be avoided altogether. Just think of them as sheets soaked with petroleum, and that might make you stay away from them.
1) Fabric softener? If your clothes are coming out that stiff, it's because of too much soap or laundry detergent. Cut back on the amount you use. Washing clothes is more about the tossing and turning than it is about the detergent. No need to worry about using too little detergent.
2) Static cling? Natural fabrics (except silk) don't have static cling problems. Using vinegar in the laundry machine will reduce static cling. Or put a small safety pin in the waistband or inner seam of the offending item when you are wearing it.
3) There is no need to add a scent to your clothing, either through the dryer sheets or detergent. If your clothes are clean and without a smell, that's fantastic! But if you must make your clothes smell nice, than use something natural, like real dried lavendar or cedar blocks.
4) Dryer sheets tend to add an invisible "sheen" to items, and is especially a problem with towels. Try drying a washed car with a towel that was dried with a dryer sheet. Doesn't absorb any water!
5) Dryer sheets tend to line your lint trap with an invisible "sheen" so that your dryer has to work harder. Keep that lint trap clean!
6) Dryer sheets tend to coat the electronic moisture sensor with residue, and your dryer will not run efficiently.
There is too much evidence of petroleum products causing cancer and the like, so I stay away from fabric softener dryer sheets.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Finance - Checks
Do you young folks still have checkbooks?
It is common knowledge these days, but in the past it was done: Do not have your social security number printed on your checks. It's been suggested not to print your full name or your address on the checks, but these days, anyone can look up your name and address. And some retailers will not accept such checks. No need for your phone number or your driver's license info on the check. If the retailer needs such information, they can write it on the one check.
Use a ball point pen, so that an intercepted check can't be laundered and altered.
Don't write a check out for "Cash". Instead write it out to your name.
Print in capital letters, everything except your signature.
Write only the last four digits of your account number on the "For" line when paying by check, if you write anything at all.
When cashing a check, do not endorse it (sign the back) until you are at the teller window. If depositing the check, write "For deposit only" after your signature.
If mailing a check, do not put the envelope in your street-side mailbox for the mail carrier to pick up, as someone else can intercept it. I myself prefer dropping off mail inside the post office.
Keep unused checks in a secure place, so that no one can learn of your account number or bank routing information.
Review your monthly statement and balance your checkbook to insure there are no unauthorized transactions. Better yet, go online to keep an eye on your accounts.
It's too bad we have to be so careful.
It is common knowledge these days, but in the past it was done: Do not have your social security number printed on your checks. It's been suggested not to print your full name or your address on the checks, but these days, anyone can look up your name and address. And some retailers will not accept such checks. No need for your phone number or your driver's license info on the check. If the retailer needs such information, they can write it on the one check.
Use a ball point pen, so that an intercepted check can't be laundered and altered.
Don't write a check out for "Cash". Instead write it out to your name.
Print in capital letters, everything except your signature.
Write only the last four digits of your account number on the "For" line when paying by check, if you write anything at all.
When cashing a check, do not endorse it (sign the back) until you are at the teller window. If depositing the check, write "For deposit only" after your signature.
If mailing a check, do not put the envelope in your street-side mailbox for the mail carrier to pick up, as someone else can intercept it. I myself prefer dropping off mail inside the post office.
Keep unused checks in a secure place, so that no one can learn of your account number or bank routing information.
Review your monthly statement and balance your checkbook to insure there are no unauthorized transactions. Better yet, go online to keep an eye on your accounts.
It's too bad we have to be so careful.
Safety - Frightening a Burglar or Attacker
One of those viral e-mails suggests you keep your car keys with you at all times, to use the panic button in cases of someone breaking into your house or someone attacking you.
While the car alarm you set off may deter the burglar or attacker, it may also annoy your neighbors, who tend to ignore car alarms.
So while I may use the panic button during a personal attack, I would not assume the noise of a car alarm guarantees the attacker will back off. Be ready with other strategies. Another viral e-mail suggests keeping a can of wasp spray to use against attackers, but that may be illegal. If you happen to have a can of wasp spray, then use it! Carrying around wasp or pepper sprays, or any type of weapon, is NOT widely encouraged, because the attacker can grab the weapon and use it against you!
The number one thing to do when attacked is to run and scream. If you can't run, try an elbow or knee to the solar plexus (belly button area to knock the breath out of the attacker) or try a knee or kick to the groin (if the attacker is male). And scream! If the attacker pulls out a gun and you haven't been trained to disarm him, perhaps being passive will lessen injury, but that is not guaranteed. Now, I am talking about a physical attack. If he just wants your money, then perhaps you could throw your wallet in one direction, then run in the other direction and scream.
As for burglars, turning on a light may deter him as much as a car or house alarm going off. I've accidently set off my house alarm, and I don't think any neighbor would respond. And many of you do not even have car or house alarms!
Other deterrents:
1) Lock your doors and windows (duh!).
2) Secure outdoor furniture and try to put away tools, etc. Don't leave a shovel out to help a burglar break your window.
3) If you can't afford a security alarm system, maybe you can get the sign or decal to put up.
4) In the same vein, put up a security camera (even if it doesn't work!).
5) Plant spikey, prickly plants under windows.
6) Own a dog! Or put up a "Beware of Dog" sign!
And pray that you do not become a statistic.
While the car alarm you set off may deter the burglar or attacker, it may also annoy your neighbors, who tend to ignore car alarms.
So while I may use the panic button during a personal attack, I would not assume the noise of a car alarm guarantees the attacker will back off. Be ready with other strategies. Another viral e-mail suggests keeping a can of wasp spray to use against attackers, but that may be illegal. If you happen to have a can of wasp spray, then use it! Carrying around wasp or pepper sprays, or any type of weapon, is NOT widely encouraged, because the attacker can grab the weapon and use it against you!
The number one thing to do when attacked is to run and scream. If you can't run, try an elbow or knee to the solar plexus (belly button area to knock the breath out of the attacker) or try a knee or kick to the groin (if the attacker is male). And scream! If the attacker pulls out a gun and you haven't been trained to disarm him, perhaps being passive will lessen injury, but that is not guaranteed. Now, I am talking about a physical attack. If he just wants your money, then perhaps you could throw your wallet in one direction, then run in the other direction and scream.
As for burglars, turning on a light may deter him as much as a car or house alarm going off. I've accidently set off my house alarm, and I don't think any neighbor would respond. And many of you do not even have car or house alarms!
Other deterrents:
1) Lock your doors and windows (duh!).
2) Secure outdoor furniture and try to put away tools, etc. Don't leave a shovel out to help a burglar break your window.
3) If you can't afford a security alarm system, maybe you can get the sign or decal to put up.
4) In the same vein, put up a security camera (even if it doesn't work!).
5) Plant spikey, prickly plants under windows.
6) Own a dog! Or put up a "Beware of Dog" sign!
And pray that you do not become a statistic.
Etiquette - Thank-you Notes
Thank-you notes are still a must-do!
In this day and age, we are accepting e-mail thank-you notes, and maybe even Tweets. Or a phone call or a text message.
Thank-you notes do much more than relay your undying gratitude for a gift or deed. The single most important purpose of the thank-you note is to let the sender know that the gift/deed was received. Especially when it involves money! Or when a gift is sent from a third party (i.e., an online retail store). If we order a registry gift, usually the only way we know it was received is via a note from the receiver. So, please, send a quick thank-you, or at least an I-received-it note!
Need help remembering to send a thank-you? Do not deposit or cash a gift check until you have sent a note. Do not use any gift until you have sent a note. Have your child send a note before being allowed to play with a gift toy.
Get the kids into the habit. Let us return to an era of consideration and respect for others. Do not take a gifter for granted and do feel some gratitude for those who are thinking of you.
Thank you!
In this day and age, we are accepting e-mail thank-you notes, and maybe even Tweets. Or a phone call or a text message.
Thank-you notes do much more than relay your undying gratitude for a gift or deed. The single most important purpose of the thank-you note is to let the sender know that the gift/deed was received. Especially when it involves money! Or when a gift is sent from a third party (i.e., an online retail store). If we order a registry gift, usually the only way we know it was received is via a note from the receiver. So, please, send a quick thank-you, or at least an I-received-it note!
Need help remembering to send a thank-you? Do not deposit or cash a gift check until you have sent a note. Do not use any gift until you have sent a note. Have your child send a note before being allowed to play with a gift toy.
Get the kids into the habit. Let us return to an era of consideration and respect for others. Do not take a gifter for granted and do feel some gratitude for those who are thinking of you.
Thank you!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Finance - Credit Card Safety
A viral e-mail forwards advice like:
1) Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put 'PHOTO ID REQUIRED'. (If your bank provides the service, have your photo put directly on your credit card; Bank of America does this.)
2) If you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the 'For' line. Instead, just put the last four digits. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won't have access to it. (Also, if sending payment checks by mail, do not leave them in a streetside mailbox for the carrier to pick up, as someone else may intercept it.)
3) If your credit cards are lost or stolen, cancel the credit cards immediately. The key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them, whether you are at home or on the road.
4) File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).
5) Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number.
a) Equifax: 800-525-6285
b) Experian (formerly TRW): 888-397-3742
c) Trans Union : 800-680-7289
d) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 877-438-4338
6) In addition, place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel.... Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Also carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel either here or abroad.
Generally, limit the number of credit cards that you have or carry, so that if a problem arises, you do not have to as much damage control to do. Only carry the credit cards that you absolutely need and keep your other credit cards locked up in a personal safe. Having more than one credit card is good for credit purposes and gives you a larger credit limit in case of emergencies, but you probably don't need more than three different credit cards. You may additionally have some specialty credit cards (gas, department store, etc.), but keep track of them all.
Pay off the full credit card amount every month. If you are unable to do so, you are spending beyond your means. It makes little sense to accrue interest fees and late fees, when you are already unable to pay your bills.
Other common sense advice:
1) Never give out credit card info (or Social Security number) over the phone unless you initiated the call, and never over a cordless phone. One common scam is when someone calls you "back" right after you place an order, claims to be from the merchant and tells you that there was a problem with your card number -- would you mind giving it to them again? The best thing to do is ask for a contact name and call the merchant back at the number you used originally.
2) Look for secure checkout when using your credit card to make purchases online. The URL address should include "https:" and often there is a lock icon on your browser. Try to use only well-known retailers. Do not respond to any e-mail asking for credit card information; immediately delete it.
3) Make certain you get your card (and photo ID) back after you make a purchase! Have the clerk give you the sales slips of any cancelled or voided transactions, so that you can personally destroy them.
4) Check your monthly statement to make certain all charges are your own, and immediately notify the card issuer of any errors or unauthorized charges. Which means: Save receipts, all of them! Don't leave them with the retailer. (You can shred receipts after you have balanced your monthly statement.)
5) Never lend your card to anyone, and don’t leave cards or receipts lying around your room, no matter where you live.
6) Oh, my gosh! But I'll say it anyway - don't write down your PIN (credit card PIN for cash advance) anywhere near your credit card, and try to cover the keypad when you punch in the PIN.
7) Shred all those pre-approved credit card offers, and unsolicited credit card applications. Shred old credit card statements. Shred old credit card receipts.
Good luck! As hard as you try, you may not be able to avoid "identity theft", but let's hope for the best!
1) Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put 'PHOTO ID REQUIRED'. (If your bank provides the service, have your photo put directly on your credit card; Bank of America does this.)
2) If you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the 'For' line. Instead, just put the last four digits. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check processing channels won't have access to it. (Also, if sending payment checks by mail, do not leave them in a streetside mailbox for the carrier to pick up, as someone else may intercept it.)
3) If your credit cards are lost or stolen, cancel the credit cards immediately. The key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them, whether you are at home or on the road.
4) File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).
5) Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and also call the Social Security fraud line number.
a) Equifax: 800-525-6285
b) Experian (formerly TRW): 888-397-3742
c) Trans Union : 800-680-7289
d) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 877-438-4338
6) In addition, place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel.... Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Also carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel either here or abroad.
Generally, limit the number of credit cards that you have or carry, so that if a problem arises, you do not have to as much damage control to do. Only carry the credit cards that you absolutely need and keep your other credit cards locked up in a personal safe. Having more than one credit card is good for credit purposes and gives you a larger credit limit in case of emergencies, but you probably don't need more than three different credit cards. You may additionally have some specialty credit cards (gas, department store, etc.), but keep track of them all.
Pay off the full credit card amount every month. If you are unable to do so, you are spending beyond your means. It makes little sense to accrue interest fees and late fees, when you are already unable to pay your bills.
Other common sense advice:
1) Never give out credit card info (or Social Security number) over the phone unless you initiated the call, and never over a cordless phone. One common scam is when someone calls you "back" right after you place an order, claims to be from the merchant and tells you that there was a problem with your card number -- would you mind giving it to them again? The best thing to do is ask for a contact name and call the merchant back at the number you used originally.
2) Look for secure checkout when using your credit card to make purchases online. The URL address should include "https:" and often there is a lock icon on your browser. Try to use only well-known retailers. Do not respond to any e-mail asking for credit card information; immediately delete it.
3) Make certain you get your card (and photo ID) back after you make a purchase! Have the clerk give you the sales slips of any cancelled or voided transactions, so that you can personally destroy them.
4) Check your monthly statement to make certain all charges are your own, and immediately notify the card issuer of any errors or unauthorized charges. Which means: Save receipts, all of them! Don't leave them with the retailer. (You can shred receipts after you have balanced your monthly statement.)
5) Never lend your card to anyone, and don’t leave cards or receipts lying around your room, no matter where you live.
6) Oh, my gosh! But I'll say it anyway - don't write down your PIN (credit card PIN for cash advance) anywhere near your credit card, and try to cover the keypad when you punch in the PIN.
7) Shred all those pre-approved credit card offers, and unsolicited credit card applications. Shred old credit card statements. Shred old credit card receipts.
Good luck! As hard as you try, you may not be able to avoid "identity theft", but let's hope for the best!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Weight Watching - An Addiction?
I can understand the cravings, the not being able to stop, the hunger.
Part of this need made me realize early that I was probably prone to addictions. I happily embraced not liking the smell of cigarettes (and later, marijuana). I was glad that I didn’t like the smell of beer or alcohol. Any tastes of those “vices” just confirmed what the smell told me: yuck! I was happy because I felt that if I had liked them, I would have taken up smoking or drinking and I would become addicted; I would be the chain-smoker, the alcoholic.
(Another big factor that kept me from drugs and drinking was that I didn’t want to lose control. I had fainted too many times as a pre-teen, and it’s an awful feeling to regain consciousness and not know what has happened. Worse was after surgery, where I couldn’t remember getting dressed or speaking with the doctor – so, to not remember things I had actually done! This loss of control may, or may not, bother you!)
So perhaps I became addicted to eating. I used to be gung-ho about things. About running, cooking, gardening, cleaning. Some would say I am obsessive-compulsive about such things. So did I become gung-ho about eating? The only problem is, I didn't want to be gung-ho about eating. Why can't I be gung-ho about not eating? (Well, first of all, it is equally as dangerous to starve yourself.)
And then what happens when you do eat the right things and exercise, and still you gain weight? That is a conundrum the medical world has not yet figured out.
In a normal world, you can listen to your body and it will tell you what you need. But these days, our bodies are so out of balance, that it begins telling you that you need more fat or sugar or ...
What can we do?
Step one: can you figure out why you are eating so much, or eating the wrong things?
Are you eating because you are bored? If you are simply bored and find yourself going to eat, that’s when you should substitute another activity, like going to the gym or knitting.
Are you eating because of association? You can get into a bad habit by reading when you eat, which becomes eating whenever you read. So you should eat at a dining room table and do nothing else, and then you’ll want to hurry and finish eating to get back to your reading! Also, do not eat when watching TV.
Are you eating to stay awake? Instead of eating, chew (sugarless) gum.
Are you eating because you are depressed? Sometimes you don’t really feel depressed or sad. Maybe anxious, or frustrated. Maybe angry or irritated. And you eat to feel better, and often you do feel better, and that makes you want to eat more to feel even better, etc. This is the hard one to solve. A good night’s sleep is the best thing to deal with a normal immediate depression, anxiety, anger, fear, etc. Your body repairs itself and gets itself back into balance during different sleep phases. All these feelings are normal if they last a day or two. It is not normal if they last weeks. That is when you need medical help to get things back in balance.
If you can figure out a specific reason for eating binges, then hopefully you can find a solution. But when you can’t figure it out, it sure makes it harder.
Part of this need made me realize early that I was probably prone to addictions. I happily embraced not liking the smell of cigarettes (and later, marijuana). I was glad that I didn’t like the smell of beer or alcohol. Any tastes of those “vices” just confirmed what the smell told me: yuck! I was happy because I felt that if I had liked them, I would have taken up smoking or drinking and I would become addicted; I would be the chain-smoker, the alcoholic.
(Another big factor that kept me from drugs and drinking was that I didn’t want to lose control. I had fainted too many times as a pre-teen, and it’s an awful feeling to regain consciousness and not know what has happened. Worse was after surgery, where I couldn’t remember getting dressed or speaking with the doctor – so, to not remember things I had actually done! This loss of control may, or may not, bother you!)
So perhaps I became addicted to eating. I used to be gung-ho about things. About running, cooking, gardening, cleaning. Some would say I am obsessive-compulsive about such things. So did I become gung-ho about eating? The only problem is, I didn't want to be gung-ho about eating. Why can't I be gung-ho about not eating? (Well, first of all, it is equally as dangerous to starve yourself.)
And then what happens when you do eat the right things and exercise, and still you gain weight? That is a conundrum the medical world has not yet figured out.
In a normal world, you can listen to your body and it will tell you what you need. But these days, our bodies are so out of balance, that it begins telling you that you need more fat or sugar or ...
What can we do?
Step one: can you figure out why you are eating so much, or eating the wrong things?
Are you eating because you are bored? If you are simply bored and find yourself going to eat, that’s when you should substitute another activity, like going to the gym or knitting.
Are you eating because of association? You can get into a bad habit by reading when you eat, which becomes eating whenever you read. So you should eat at a dining room table and do nothing else, and then you’ll want to hurry and finish eating to get back to your reading! Also, do not eat when watching TV.
Are you eating to stay awake? Instead of eating, chew (sugarless) gum.
Are you eating because you are depressed? Sometimes you don’t really feel depressed or sad. Maybe anxious, or frustrated. Maybe angry or irritated. And you eat to feel better, and often you do feel better, and that makes you want to eat more to feel even better, etc. This is the hard one to solve. A good night’s sleep is the best thing to deal with a normal immediate depression, anxiety, anger, fear, etc. Your body repairs itself and gets itself back into balance during different sleep phases. All these feelings are normal if they last a day or two. It is not normal if they last weeks. That is when you need medical help to get things back in balance.
If you can figure out a specific reason for eating binges, then hopefully you can find a solution. But when you can’t figure it out, it sure makes it harder.
Laundry Tip - Sorting?
I think everyone knows about sorting laundry, especially separating whites and colors. You used to have to separate delicates from heavier items like towels, too!
But sometimes you don't have enough clothing to fill the washing machine, and you always want a full load. For the environment's sake, don't waste water and wash partial loads!
Now, I am actually going to recommend a commercial product! I know I try to use natural products, but this time... I use Color Catcher by Shout. You throw a small sheet in the washing machine with a mixture of whites and colors, and if any colors are going to run, this sheet magically collects them. You can re-use the sheet for multiple loads, until it turns a dark purplish gray and you feel like it has soaked up enough color!
We have a front-loading washing machine, which recommends that you combine a variety of weights of clothing. So the towels don't get washed separately. If you have something so delicate that you wouldn't put it in with a towel, perhaps it needs to be handwashed.
So instead of sorting, I hope as you add clothes to the washing machine, you are:
1) Checking all pockets (Sometimes the only allowance I receive is change from pockets, with an occasional bonus of a dollar bill! Although money goes through the wash without a problem, it's the tissue and crayons that you want to keep out of the washing machine!)
2) Pre-treating all stains (If you don't have time to scrub them by hand, then by all means, use the Shout Stain Remover. I prefer the gel over the spray, since the gel goes right on the stain, while the spray goes everywhere!)
3) Treating all stinky spots with vinegar (See Laundry Tip - Vinegar)
4) Making sure all velcro closures are closed, so that the "hooks" aren't exposed to grab at other clothing
5) Closing all zippers
6) Hooking bras, again so that hooks aren't free to grab
7) Unbunching socks (a scrunched-up sock will stay that way and not seem to get clean inside the crunched parts!)
8) Tying strings together, like the strings on a hooded sweatshirt or on a men's bathing suit. If you don't tie them together, one end could get caught on a velcro hook and get pulled out entirely. And what a pain it is to string it back through!
But sometimes you don't have enough clothing to fill the washing machine, and you always want a full load. For the environment's sake, don't waste water and wash partial loads!
Now, I am actually going to recommend a commercial product! I know I try to use natural products, but this time... I use Color Catcher by Shout. You throw a small sheet in the washing machine with a mixture of whites and colors, and if any colors are going to run, this sheet magically collects them. You can re-use the sheet for multiple loads, until it turns a dark purplish gray and you feel like it has soaked up enough color!
We have a front-loading washing machine, which recommends that you combine a variety of weights of clothing. So the towels don't get washed separately. If you have something so delicate that you wouldn't put it in with a towel, perhaps it needs to be handwashed.
So instead of sorting, I hope as you add clothes to the washing machine, you are:
1) Checking all pockets (Sometimes the only allowance I receive is change from pockets, with an occasional bonus of a dollar bill! Although money goes through the wash without a problem, it's the tissue and crayons that you want to keep out of the washing machine!)
2) Pre-treating all stains (If you don't have time to scrub them by hand, then by all means, use the Shout Stain Remover. I prefer the gel over the spray, since the gel goes right on the stain, while the spray goes everywhere!)
3) Treating all stinky spots with vinegar (See Laundry Tip - Vinegar)
4) Making sure all velcro closures are closed, so that the "hooks" aren't exposed to grab at other clothing
5) Closing all zippers
6) Hooking bras, again so that hooks aren't free to grab
7) Unbunching socks (a scrunched-up sock will stay that way and not seem to get clean inside the crunched parts!)
8) Tying strings together, like the strings on a hooded sweatshirt or on a men's bathing suit. If you don't tie them together, one end could get caught on a velcro hook and get pulled out entirely. And what a pain it is to string it back through!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Weight Watching - The Basics
Remember that it is harder to lose weight when you are older (over 40 years). The only advice I can give is: try not to gain the weight in the first place.
That can be difficult, because you have to juggle so many things.
Yes, if you take in fewer calories, and burn off more calories, the math should result in decreased weight. However, there are two other important factors that make the math more complicated.
1) Stress. If you can reduce stress in your life, do it. Unfortunately, stress is just a part of life these days, so you have to do all kinds of things to counter stress - like breate, laugh, sing, exercise, play, hug or be hugged. Now, those things that people usually do to cope with stress, like alcohol, drugs, smoking, or physical violence, will make things worse in the long run.
2) Sleep. Sleep is important for your body to get itself back in balance. Get your 7-8 hours per night. (More sleep than that can be unhealthy!).
As you get older, you should be eating less because your metabolism is slowing down. I know how difficult that is to do, because I love to eat, and to try new foods, and...
So you think you will just exercise more, but then your body won't let you exercise at the same pace, because of arthritic knees and sore backs, getting dizzy or losing your vision. That makes it more stressful... You can see the vicious circle going on here.
Develop a life routine of eating moderately at regular intervals, exercising or playing regularly, and sleeping at consistent time. The same routine or schedule very day.
Yeah, right!
That can be difficult, because you have to juggle so many things.
Yes, if you take in fewer calories, and burn off more calories, the math should result in decreased weight. However, there are two other important factors that make the math more complicated.
1) Stress. If you can reduce stress in your life, do it. Unfortunately, stress is just a part of life these days, so you have to do all kinds of things to counter stress - like breate, laugh, sing, exercise, play, hug or be hugged. Now, those things that people usually do to cope with stress, like alcohol, drugs, smoking, or physical violence, will make things worse in the long run.
2) Sleep. Sleep is important for your body to get itself back in balance. Get your 7-8 hours per night. (More sleep than that can be unhealthy!).
As you get older, you should be eating less because your metabolism is slowing down. I know how difficult that is to do, because I love to eat, and to try new foods, and...
So you think you will just exercise more, but then your body won't let you exercise at the same pace, because of arthritic knees and sore backs, getting dizzy or losing your vision. That makes it more stressful... You can see the vicious circle going on here.
Develop a life routine of eating moderately at regular intervals, exercising or playing regularly, and sleeping at consistent time. The same routine or schedule very day.
Yeah, right!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Housework: Making the Bed Part II
Next we will deal with how often you change the sheets on the bed.
(You may want to see what someone else says: "The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide" at http://boomersurvive-thriveguide.typepad.com/the_survive_and_thrive_bo/2009/06/how-often-should-you-change-your-bed-sheets.html)
We have always changed them at least once a week, and if there were any problems (bed-wetting of any sort, bloody noses, etc.) they got changed immediately.
Assuming you bathe or shower every night before getting into bed, you may be allowed to go longer between changing sheets.
But if you read, are flatulent, count money, eat, or wrestle in bed, think about changing the sheets more often!
It helps if your mattress and pillows are covered with hypo-allergenic, allergen barrier protectors. Invest in these, and you will only need to change the sheets and pillowcases, and not the mattress pad and pillows! There are those who save time by sleeping on top of their bedding so they do not have to make the bed. But the purpose of sheets is to protect your mattress, pillows, and bedspread from your body and its oils, flaking skin, dandruff, drool, snot, bacteria, viruses, dirt, scabs, cosmetics, ear wax, loose hairs, semen, yeast, toe jam, blood, sweat and tears. When you sleep, you should only be touching your sheets and pillowcases. The blanket should have a sheet between it and you. Pulling the blanket up to keep warm? Make sure you fold the sheet over the edge of the blanket to pull it up! Otherwise you will have to wash the blanket weekly!
In summary, the cleaner you are when you go to bed, the longer you can wait to change the sheets. And if the only things you touch when sleeping are the sheets and pillowcases, then those are the only things you need to wash frequently.
Of course, there is spring and fall cleaning which requires you to thoroughly wash everything!
(You may want to see what someone else says: "The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide" at http://boomersurvive-thriveguide.typepad.com/the_survive_and_thrive_bo/2009/06/how-often-should-you-change-your-bed-sheets.html)
We have always changed them at least once a week, and if there were any problems (bed-wetting of any sort, bloody noses, etc.) they got changed immediately.
Assuming you bathe or shower every night before getting into bed, you may be allowed to go longer between changing sheets.
But if you read, are flatulent, count money, eat, or wrestle in bed, think about changing the sheets more often!
It helps if your mattress and pillows are covered with hypo-allergenic, allergen barrier protectors. Invest in these, and you will only need to change the sheets and pillowcases, and not the mattress pad and pillows! There are those who save time by sleeping on top of their bedding so they do not have to make the bed. But the purpose of sheets is to protect your mattress, pillows, and bedspread from your body and its oils, flaking skin, dandruff, drool, snot, bacteria, viruses, dirt, scabs, cosmetics, ear wax, loose hairs, semen, yeast, toe jam, blood, sweat and tears. When you sleep, you should only be touching your sheets and pillowcases. The blanket should have a sheet between it and you. Pulling the blanket up to keep warm? Make sure you fold the sheet over the edge of the blanket to pull it up! Otherwise you will have to wash the blanket weekly!
In summary, the cleaner you are when you go to bed, the longer you can wait to change the sheets. And if the only things you touch when sleeping are the sheets and pillowcases, then those are the only things you need to wash frequently.
Of course, there is spring and fall cleaning which requires you to thoroughly wash everything!
Housework: Making the Bed Part I
If you were paying attention, you have learned to make the bed using the military method (which is detailed in an article at "The Art of Manliness": http://artofmanliness.com/2009/11/19/how-to-make-a-bed-you-can-bounce-a-quarter-off-of/), because I learned from my father, rather than from my mother who was used to rolling up a futon from the floor and sticking it in a closet.
I am in favor of letting the bed air out a bit before making it (and in a related matter, I do not like to sleep in a room that is shut up tight. Either leave a door or a window open. Otherwise, the room will smell raunchy.)
But why make the bed at all? Now that you are adults, I suppose it is a personal preference or just laziness that will dictate what you do. I just need some order in my personal life, as opposed to the disorder out there in the world.
And although you may not care what your friends think, I swear the pest control guy does a more thorough job when he sees a nice neat home.
But perhaps the greatest reason to make the bed is to keep the dust and other creatures out of the bed. So at least pull up the bedspread!
I am in favor of letting the bed air out a bit before making it (and in a related matter, I do not like to sleep in a room that is shut up tight. Either leave a door or a window open. Otherwise, the room will smell raunchy.)
But why make the bed at all? Now that you are adults, I suppose it is a personal preference or just laziness that will dictate what you do. I just need some order in my personal life, as opposed to the disorder out there in the world.
And although you may not care what your friends think, I swear the pest control guy does a more thorough job when he sees a nice neat home.
But perhaps the greatest reason to make the bed is to keep the dust and other creatures out of the bed. So at least pull up the bedspread!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Laundry Tip - Vinegar
Sunday is laundry day at our house. So laundry tips are likely to come on Sundays!
I use vinegar (white distilled vinegar) because:
a) it is environmentally-friendly,
b) it is wallet-friendly (purchase a gallon or more container, and pour some into a smaller bottle for use in the laundry room),
c) it is versatile.
As I begin to load the washing machine, I will put vinegar directly on:
1) underarms of clothing that have yellowed or have deodorant build-up, or on underarms of sweaty clothing to prevent yellowing and deodorant build-up,
2) on the traditionally stinky parts of underpants (i.e. where men have flatulence and where women have discharge).
I routinely add a tablespoon in the fabric softener dispenser of my washing machine in addition to the usual detergent. (A quarter cup is recommended, but since I have a front-loader, I use half that amount, or less depending on how much vinegar I used to "pre-treat"!)
I NEVER use liquid bleach or fabric softener.
There are at least "1,001 Uses for Vinegar" which you can check out at:
http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/
and specifically for laundry:
http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/pageViewSec.asp?id=8
So why do I use vinegar specifically in regards to laundry? Because
a) I usually use only cold water to do the laundry, I need something to handle the germs, mold and mildew.
b) If your water is hard, vinegar will act as a water softener and boost the power of your detergent and decrease soap scum.
c) Most of our clothes are made from natural fibers like cotton, so they need milder treatment.
I use vinegar (white distilled vinegar) because:
a) it is environmentally-friendly,
b) it is wallet-friendly (purchase a gallon or more container, and pour some into a smaller bottle for use in the laundry room),
c) it is versatile.
As I begin to load the washing machine, I will put vinegar directly on:
1) underarms of clothing that have yellowed or have deodorant build-up, or on underarms of sweaty clothing to prevent yellowing and deodorant build-up,
2) on the traditionally stinky parts of underpants (i.e. where men have flatulence and where women have discharge).
I routinely add a tablespoon in the fabric softener dispenser of my washing machine in addition to the usual detergent. (A quarter cup is recommended, but since I have a front-loader, I use half that amount, or less depending on how much vinegar I used to "pre-treat"!)
I NEVER use liquid bleach or fabric softener.
There are at least "1,001 Uses for Vinegar" which you can check out at:
http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/
and specifically for laundry:
http://www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/pageViewSec.asp?id=8
So why do I use vinegar specifically in regards to laundry? Because
a) I usually use only cold water to do the laundry, I need something to handle the germs, mold and mildew.
b) If your water is hard, vinegar will act as a water softener and boost the power of your detergent and decrease soap scum.
c) Most of our clothes are made from natural fibers like cotton, so they need milder treatment.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Bathroom Tip - Toilet Paper
The Great Over or Under Debate...
You know, when you replace the toilet paper roll on the toilet paper roll holder, should the end of the roll come forward over the top of the roll, or should it drop down behind?
Others have already thoroughly studied this problem, and I refer you to Current Configuration (http://currentconfig.com/2005/02/22/essential-life-lesson-1-over-is-right-under-is-wrong/).
My preference, is of course, over the top, mostly because of the location of the toilet paper roll in relation to my hand when I am sitting on the toilet. When I reach for the toilet paper, my hand is more often above the roll, thus it is easier to grab the end if it is on top. I do not like searching for the end under the roll, when I'd rather be done and doing something else.
Now, if a man were to ever use toilet paper after doing #1, he would also be above the toilet paper roll, and you know you want to make things as easy as possible for him.
However, my main advice for replacing the toilet paper roll is - JUST DO IT! Please don't leave an empty roll!
Thank you!
P. S. Also, please don't leave just one square of toilet paper on the roll for someone else. If you can't find a use for it, then leave it on top of the new roll you have just installed. Thanks!
You know, when you replace the toilet paper roll on the toilet paper roll holder, should the end of the roll come forward over the top of the roll, or should it drop down behind?
Others have already thoroughly studied this problem, and I refer you to Current Configuration (http://currentconfig.com/2005/02/22/essential-life-lesson-1-over-is-right-under-is-wrong/).
My preference, is of course, over the top, mostly because of the location of the toilet paper roll in relation to my hand when I am sitting on the toilet. When I reach for the toilet paper, my hand is more often above the roll, thus it is easier to grab the end if it is on top. I do not like searching for the end under the roll, when I'd rather be done and doing something else.
Now, if a man were to ever use toilet paper after doing #1, he would also be above the toilet paper roll, and you know you want to make things as easy as possible for him.
However, my main advice for replacing the toilet paper roll is - JUST DO IT! Please don't leave an empty roll!
Thank you!
P. S. Also, please don't leave just one square of toilet paper on the roll for someone else. If you can't find a use for it, then leave it on top of the new roll you have just installed. Thanks!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Children and Automobiles
My advice on leaving children alone in cars:
DON'T!
Never mind that a child can suffocate in the heat, freeze in the cold, slip down in the carseat and choke on a strap, escape the carseat and start the car, or be abducted!
No, what you don't want is to be in the shoes of the two young women in line at the post office - when the cop came in and asked the owner of the car with the kids to step forward...
What I can't understand is, if there are two adults and unknown number of children, why would both adults need to come in to the post office? If they couldn't handle bringing the kids in with them, certainly one could have stayed in the car. If they needed to talk, they had cell phones. If they needed to talk privately, well, we could all hear their conversation while in the post office...
The lines at the post office are notoriously long, but there is no good reason to leave a child alone in a car.
P. S. OMG! I just remembered I left my own daughter in the car when I went into the post office the other week, AND I gave her the car keys!
(She is 20 years old... She could have driven off to a colder climate, become frozen, slid down and choked on the seat belt, and been arrested for neglect of an elderly person. How dangerous is that?! Like I said, DON'T leave kids alone in the car!)
DON'T!
Never mind that a child can suffocate in the heat, freeze in the cold, slip down in the carseat and choke on a strap, escape the carseat and start the car, or be abducted!
No, what you don't want is to be in the shoes of the two young women in line at the post office - when the cop came in and asked the owner of the car with the kids to step forward...
What I can't understand is, if there are two adults and unknown number of children, why would both adults need to come in to the post office? If they couldn't handle bringing the kids in with them, certainly one could have stayed in the car. If they needed to talk, they had cell phones. If they needed to talk privately, well, we could all hear their conversation while in the post office...
The lines at the post office are notoriously long, but there is no good reason to leave a child alone in a car.
P. S. OMG! I just remembered I left my own daughter in the car when I went into the post office the other week, AND I gave her the car keys!
(She is 20 years old... She could have driven off to a colder climate, become frozen, slid down and choked on the seat belt, and been arrested for neglect of an elderly person. How dangerous is that?! Like I said, DON'T leave kids alone in the car!)
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