Great tips found at www.onlineorganizing.com
Here's a little help for you fellow entrepreneurs out there! Click on the title for the article...Enjoy - Dorethia
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Saturday, September 6, 2008
You're Not the Boss of Me!....Well Maybe You Are...
I don't get a chance to watch a lot of t.v. I had cable a couple of times but found that:
1. Unless you buy all the add-ons, nothing's on t.v.
2. I wasn't home enough to take advantage of the service
3. I was spending too much time arguing over incorrect bills and poor customer service for something I rarely used....therefore I ditched it.
Now we are being forced into HDTV. I don't like it. I believe it is unfair to the consumers. I have been screaming this since the announcement was made and I thought I was on an island all by myself until I ran across the articles below earlier this year. Either you buy a new t.v., cable or you buy converters and the government will give you $40 towards the converters.
The cost of the converters is not the issue, the infringement is having someone else decide how clear the picture on MY television should be. I CARE NOT!!!! As long as it's not fuzzy - I'm good! I can't tell the difference between plasma, high def or whatever the other one is! There is no absolute need to go HDTV, this is one of those deals where everyone benefits except the consumers and the government makes a nice profit. I don't want to buy a new t.v. or cable and there are many people who feel the same way.
Of course I'll get the converters because truly I have no choice. I'm just grateful for the ability to rant on blogs....thank goodness that hasn't been taken away.
Check out these articles by Keith Crain of Crain Communications - another voice crying out into the seemingly wilderness....
Keith Crain: It Just Doesn't Seem Very Democratic: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20080211/SUB/380959951
Keith Crain: Someone Really Ought to See The Light: http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20080303/SUB/803030332
______________________________________________
p.s.........Another example of unfair foolishness is Michigan's Driver Responsibility Law enacted a few years ago. After you have paid your tickets, your reinstatement fees etc, which can all add up not so nicely, you are fined again for having gotten too many tickets. Each fine is dependent upon the severity of your record. There was no warning, no notices (so it couldn't be fought right away) - just this is the rule, pay up! I believe in making people pay for not following the traffic rules - I certainly have contributed to the state and city coffers for disobedience. But I believe that it's unfair to add an additional fine once they've made restitution. Last time I checked this wasn't deterring people from getting tickets - no one gets in their car planning to get a ticket anyway. It would have been more prudent to run some informative PSA's on radio and t.v. commercials on benefits of driving safety, consequences for various offenses etc. .......just my twenty cents!
Hybrid Cars and Such....
Okay, I must admit that I'm way behind in getting on the bus of this 'green' movement. I'm not especially wasteful, do recycle plastic grocery bags as bathroom garbage bags, hate litter and don't buy pop so no recycling issues there. I do buy lots of water and sorry, but I don't recycle the bottles...I know...I know. . My green thumb is more like black because I can barely get anything to grow. Ask my neighbors who just shake their heads and laugh every time I attempt yard work....after a while, out of sheer sympathy and amusement, they'll help me! (My mother would be ashamed, she's a pro). So yes, I know I get an F for green I'm sure. But there's always redemption and I'm starting today to learn more, what with all the talk of bio fuels, green clothing and hybrid cars.We'll start with Hybrid Cars. Being totally ignorant, I had to ask an 'expert' - my Uncle Danny...(see I called you an 'expert' ha ha - never again) I wanted to know what the hoopla was about and if they truly SAVE MONEY....
In the long and short of it, he explained that hybrid cars are great for city driving - in and around the neighborhood, grocery stores, etc. Why? ...because they have electric motors that takeover when you are at a light or stopped in traffic. Hybrid cars seem to 'cut off' when you stop at a light, thus preserving energy, gas. They are still on, but the electric motors have kicked in and when the light changes you're off again - using petroleum. On the freeway you don't save $$ because the electric motors add weight to the car, thus decreasing the miles per gallon you get because the car is working harder. I did some research and Uncle Danny is absolutely correct.. go figure!
Here are some links that explain how hybrid cars work in detail - for those equally as ignorant as I am:
Great Explanation of Hybrid Cars: http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/08/green-basics-hybrid-car.php
Want to Know Which Hybrids Give Biggest Bang for Your $$$ - Report @ CNN.com:
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/autos/0809/gallery.consumer_reports_hybrids/12.html
http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/autos/0809/gallery.consumer_reports_hybrids/12.html
Okay, I've got my green t-shirt and I've learned about hybrids - I should be up to a C+ at least...as for my black thumb, I don't believe there is any help.... until next time - Dorethia
Monday, September 1, 2008
On the Virtues of Making Your Children Do the Dishes by Sue Shellenbarger @ WSJ
Quiz for the day: How much time each day, on average, does a 6- to 12-year-old child spend on household chores?
If you guessed more than a half-hour, you're wrong. Children are spending a mere 24 minutes a day doing cleaning, laundry and other housework -- a 12% decline since 1997 and a 25% drop from 1981 levels, says Sandra Hofferth, director of the Maryland Population Research Center at the University of Maryland, based on a forthcoming study of 1,343 children. In the glacial realm of sociological change, that amounts to a free fall....
Click title for the rest of the article.....Enjoy! -Dorethia
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Paying Your Kids for Chores
Okay, in the previous post we discussed chores your children do get paid for and chores they don't...now how do you pay them and help them manage their money?
Make sure the amount you pay is reasonable for the job done. Just because lil' David NEEDS $50 for a video game he wants doesn't mean you give him $50 for just sweeping out the garage.
1. Assign a value for each task
2. Have a specific pay day, pay on time, pay with cash
3. Take money away for a job not well done, misbehavior at home or at school, but be fair
The Evelope System - an ancient chinese secret....
Paying with cash let's them 'see' their profit and is a great motivator. Teach them to have an envelope system:
Saving:
Teach them to always save something - 20%; at minimum 10% - not saving is NEVER an option
Also, have bank accounts for them so this money can be deposited and they can learn how to handle bank transactions.
Spending:
It's okay for them to spend, it may be tempting not to, but let them buy whatever they want - offer some guidance and common sense help, but they did work for this money.
Giving:
Teach your kids the importance of tithing and helping others who are less fortunate.
Make sure the amount you pay is reasonable for the job done. Just because lil' David NEEDS $50 for a video game he wants doesn't mean you give him $50 for just sweeping out the garage.
1. Assign a value for each task
2. Have a specific pay day, pay on time, pay with cash
3. Take money away for a job not well done, misbehavior at home or at school, but be fair
The Evelope System - an ancient chinese secret....
Paying with cash let's them 'see' their profit and is a great motivator. Teach them to have an envelope system:
Saving:
Teach them to always save something - 20%; at minimum 10% - not saving is NEVER an option
Also, have bank accounts for them so this money can be deposited and they can learn how to handle bank transactions.
Spending:
It's okay for them to spend, it may be tempting not to, but let them buy whatever they want - offer some guidance and common sense help, but they did work for this money.
Giving:
Teach your kids the importance of tithing and helping others who are less fortunate.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Make Them Work For IT!!!
Who???? Your Kids!!! Stop GIVING them money....and please, please give them CHORES!!! Yes, chores those ancient tasks we had to do to justify taking up space in our mom's house!
I am blown away at the number of our youth that do not have to do anything except stick their hands out! Just giving them money does not teach them any kind of work ethic, nor set an example for them to guide their own children one day!
Now to teach them responsibility and money management there are chores they get paid to do and those they don't...see big mama's outline below:
Chores They Don't Get Paid For:
Cleaning their own rooms!!!!!
Younger Children: pick up thier toys
Age 7/8: Dust, clean mirrors, clean their own room, clean the bathroom,picking weeds out of the garden
Ages 9/10: Add washing dishes, sweeping the floor, begin to teach them how to properly mop. By the age of 10/11 they can begin learning how to cut grass. Yes, I know, it won't be those nice neat lines you like, but remember you are training and if you just can't take it, let them do a small section. You can also introduce washing clothes. Even if you sort them yourself and just have them to switch the loads.
Jr./Sr. High: By the time they reach this age your little darlings should have long since had a regular schedule for house cleaning assignments and have consequences for not doing them well.
At this point your child should know how to thoroughly clean a house, even if he or she seems allergic to the notion, they have been taught!
Chores They DO Get Paid For:
Softy #1: Oh no, my son/daughter will not wash the dishes (insert any task really) well, they'll either be broken or still dirty....
Taskmaster: You make him/or her do it over and over until they get it right!!!!
Softy #2: I'd rather do it myself and get it out of the way, plus they are just children let them enjoy their childhood.
Taskmaster: Childhood is to be enjoyed, but it is also preparation for adulthood....what are you preparing your child for if they don't acquire work habits in their youth? oooo pick me pick me....you are preparing them to live with you forever!!!
Now, here's my BALANCE tidbit. It is important to have a reasonable schedule. Often we are taking our kids to this practice or that game on top of homework, etc. It is important to have a schedule for chores so you don't do away with it altogether. Also, the chores should be fair, but firm and the expectation should be that they are done correctly or done over.
Also, for those of you who have housekeepers, still set aside some time for your children to wash dishes, do laundry, etc. It is important that they learn these skills.
Okay, one more thing. I think it is important to teach our son's and daughters the same household skills. Son's learn how to cook, daughters learn how to cut grass. Son's learn how to wash clothes, daughters take out the trash. The schedule rotates.
I am blown away at the number of our youth that do not have to do anything except stick their hands out! Just giving them money does not teach them any kind of work ethic, nor set an example for them to guide their own children one day!
Now to teach them responsibility and money management there are chores they get paid to do and those they don't...see big mama's outline below:
Chores They Don't Get Paid For:
Cleaning their own rooms!!!!!
Younger Children: pick up thier toys
Age 7/8: Dust, clean mirrors, clean their own room, clean the bathroom,picking weeds out of the garden
Ages 9/10: Add washing dishes, sweeping the floor, begin to teach them how to properly mop. By the age of 10/11 they can begin learning how to cut grass. Yes, I know, it won't be those nice neat lines you like, but remember you are training and if you just can't take it, let them do a small section. You can also introduce washing clothes. Even if you sort them yourself and just have them to switch the loads.
Jr./Sr. High: By the time they reach this age your little darlings should have long since had a regular schedule for house cleaning assignments and have consequences for not doing them well.
At this point your child should know how to thoroughly clean a house, even if he or she seems allergic to the notion, they have been taught!
Chores They DO Get Paid For:
- Doing your household duties - cleaning your room, washing dishes on your day
- Cleaning out the garage/basement/other extremely cluttered areas
- Helping with major yardwork projects
- Cleaning out closets/re-organizing cabinets
- Other household projects that go above and beyond the call of duty
(see post: 'Paying Your Kids For Chores')
Softy #1: Oh no, my son/daughter will not wash the dishes (insert any task really) well, they'll either be broken or still dirty....
Taskmaster: You make him/or her do it over and over until they get it right!!!!
Softy #2: I'd rather do it myself and get it out of the way, plus they are just children let them enjoy their childhood.
Taskmaster: Childhood is to be enjoyed, but it is also preparation for adulthood....what are you preparing your child for if they don't acquire work habits in their youth? oooo pick me pick me....you are preparing them to live with you forever!!!
Now, here's my BALANCE tidbit. It is important to have a reasonable schedule. Often we are taking our kids to this practice or that game on top of homework, etc. It is important to have a schedule for chores so you don't do away with it altogether. Also, the chores should be fair, but firm and the expectation should be that they are done correctly or done over.
Also, for those of you who have housekeepers, still set aside some time for your children to wash dishes, do laundry, etc. It is important that they learn these skills.
Okay, one more thing. I think it is important to teach our son's and daughters the same household skills. Son's learn how to cook, daughters learn how to cut grass. Son's learn how to wash clothes, daughters take out the trash. The schedule rotates.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Bush Signs Housing Rescue Law - CNN.com
President enacts controversial measure that aims to help borrowers, bolster the housing market and provide a fail-safe for Fannie and Freddie.
By Jeanne Sahadi, CNNMoney.com senior writer
Last Updated: July 30, 2008: 11:12 AM EDT
Click Title for Story
By Jeanne Sahadi, CNNMoney.com senior writer
Last Updated: July 30, 2008: 11:12 AM EDT
Click Title for Story
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Buppie Yuppie Busy-ness!!
It’s cool to be busy, swamped…so busy that you only have a moment here to say this or a few minutes to meet ..it’s cool because it makes you feel important…like you have so much going on…and maybe you do, but those around you shouldn't feel rushed through your conversation, lunch, dinner, basketball game - you get the point.
In the midst of all this busy-ness, you miss quality time with quality people....while you are attempting to connect with the ‘right’ folks, attend the ‘right’ meeting.
Not to mention, when you are always soooo busy, quality people no longer desire to be around you, you give off an anxious, hectic, vibe. Never settled, never comfortable, just running and rushing around all the time….when the truth of the matter is that balanced people find time for friendships, dinners out with family, time to make new acquaintances, and business networks…without saying…"I’ve only got a few minutes", "you know I’m so busy I’ve got to go". No one wants to hang around you because they don’t feel important enough for a slice of your time. A slice where you are relaxed, not looking at your watch or worse ANSWERING YOUR CELL PHONE! My next post will be about cell phone etiquette at lunch, dinner, standing in line at the grocery store! (I am guilty too).
We are all ambitious, driven, high achievers – regardless of age. But what matters is the quality of your relationships, whether business or personal. When you give off that hectic vibe, you are telling the person you are with that time with them does not matter, you’re not focused on what they are talking about or enjoying thier company.
It doesn’t matter if it is a business acquaintance, family member or friend. Everyone wants to feel as if their presence is important when you are around them.
We are all so concerned with being upwardly mobile, on this committee, on that board, going to this meeting, this event, working long hours….some of us bask in it, as if it says "Hey I’m about something, Hey I’m doing something"…..and you are….kudos to you….hard work pays off, being in the know does too….but what do you know about those closest too you …as you zoom here and there….what about new people you meet and you swear ‘we’ve got to get together’? But never do or you try to squeeze them in between this or that - at the last minute to boot. In all this buppie yuppie busy-ness we need to settle down, calm down and enjoy the moment as well as enjoying the people we come across.
True networking is about building genuine relationships, leaving others feeling good after meeting with you...and that's impossible to do when you're too busy.
In the midst of all this busy-ness, you miss quality time with quality people....while you are attempting to connect with the ‘right’ folks, attend the ‘right’ meeting.
Not to mention, when you are always soooo busy, quality people no longer desire to be around you, you give off an anxious, hectic, vibe. Never settled, never comfortable, just running and rushing around all the time….when the truth of the matter is that balanced people find time for friendships, dinners out with family, time to make new acquaintances, and business networks…without saying…"I’ve only got a few minutes", "you know I’m so busy I’ve got to go". No one wants to hang around you because they don’t feel important enough for a slice of your time. A slice where you are relaxed, not looking at your watch or worse ANSWERING YOUR CELL PHONE! My next post will be about cell phone etiquette at lunch, dinner, standing in line at the grocery store! (I am guilty too).
We are all ambitious, driven, high achievers – regardless of age. But what matters is the quality of your relationships, whether business or personal. When you give off that hectic vibe, you are telling the person you are with that time with them does not matter, you’re not focused on what they are talking about or enjoying thier company.
It doesn’t matter if it is a business acquaintance, family member or friend. Everyone wants to feel as if their presence is important when you are around them.
We are all so concerned with being upwardly mobile, on this committee, on that board, going to this meeting, this event, working long hours….some of us bask in it, as if it says "Hey I’m about something, Hey I’m doing something"…..and you are….kudos to you….hard work pays off, being in the know does too….but what do you know about those closest too you …as you zoom here and there….what about new people you meet and you swear ‘we’ve got to get together’? But never do or you try to squeeze them in between this or that - at the last minute to boot. In all this buppie yuppie busy-ness we need to settle down, calm down and enjoy the moment as well as enjoying the people we come across.
True networking is about building genuine relationships, leaving others feeling good after meeting with you...and that's impossible to do when you're too busy.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Christmas in July!
No I am not announcing a huge SALE! And I know it is the middle of summer and no one is thinking about Christmas, but now is the perfect time to do so!! Early planning can save you a world of stress as the holiday season approaches.
Thanks to a good friend, a light came on in my head one Christmas many many moons ago. Many people don’t pay their November/December bills to buy Christmas gifts or they will go into debt buying gifts on credit for people when they are barely buying groceries. This is crazy.
I was someone who seemed to never have enough money throughout the year, but found money during Christmas time for gifts. I have two big families with a lot of kids and a Secret Santa drawing for adults. I never charged Christmas gifts, but I did put off paying December’s bills - to my detriment later of course.
My friend, Temeka and I were talking one year during the holiday and when she saw all the money I spent on Christmas she was shocked. At the time, we were both single moms and she knew I couldn’t afford it. Temeka told me she asked her daughter what was one thing she wanted more than anything else and that is what she bought her. Temeka, her sister, and her mom had an understanding; they didn’t exchange gifts at all, no hard feelings, just love. The family came together for dinner and that was that. No pressure, no debt, just a nice Christmas.
I was hesitant at first. I thought people would be upset because they bought my kids gifts and I didn’t buy for theirs etc., etc. But I tried it that first year anyway. I bought my kids one big gift and a couple of small things, I bought for my mom and I did do the Secret Santa’s for both families, but that was it!! My bills were paid - it was freedom!!! No one disowned me, everyone understood and still bought things for my kids.
Now, I know everyone’s family is not as understanding, caring, loving, and wonderful as mine :-)). This has caused major riffs in some families - I've heard the stories. This shows you how much they value the true reason for the season. But we must do what is best for our families financially and not try to please everyone else. If you can afford to buy gifts for everyone – wonderful – do it. This isn’t a mantra against giving or Christmas. But when people are in debt and can’t pay their bills, buying gifts isn’t even on the priority list.
Thanks to a good friend, a light came on in my head one Christmas many many moons ago. Many people don’t pay their November/December bills to buy Christmas gifts or they will go into debt buying gifts on credit for people when they are barely buying groceries. This is crazy.
I was someone who seemed to never have enough money throughout the year, but found money during Christmas time for gifts. I have two big families with a lot of kids and a Secret Santa drawing for adults. I never charged Christmas gifts, but I did put off paying December’s bills - to my detriment later of course.
My friend, Temeka and I were talking one year during the holiday and when she saw all the money I spent on Christmas she was shocked. At the time, we were both single moms and she knew I couldn’t afford it. Temeka told me she asked her daughter what was one thing she wanted more than anything else and that is what she bought her. Temeka, her sister, and her mom had an understanding; they didn’t exchange gifts at all, no hard feelings, just love. The family came together for dinner and that was that. No pressure, no debt, just a nice Christmas.
I was hesitant at first. I thought people would be upset because they bought my kids gifts and I didn’t buy for theirs etc., etc. But I tried it that first year anyway. I bought my kids one big gift and a couple of small things, I bought for my mom and I did do the Secret Santa’s for both families, but that was it!! My bills were paid - it was freedom!!! No one disowned me, everyone understood and still bought things for my kids.
Now, I know everyone’s family is not as understanding, caring, loving, and wonderful as mine :-)). This has caused major riffs in some families - I've heard the stories. This shows you how much they value the true reason for the season. But we must do what is best for our families financially and not try to please everyone else. If you can afford to buy gifts for everyone – wonderful – do it. This isn’t a mantra against giving or Christmas. But when people are in debt and can’t pay their bills, buying gifts isn’t even on the priority list.
TIP: Now is the perfect time to begin saving for Christmas gifts or to start picking them up one by one - my aunt does this and is done with her shopping by October!
Disclaimer!!: You always have the one person who is a bit on the extreme side soo....I DO NOT suggest not buying your own children Christmas gifts, but you may be able to scale it down a little bit by buying the items that they want most. You could also begin family traditions that will last longer than the gifts ever will.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Lead Foot Anonymous....
Hello Everyone, my name 'Speed Racer' and I have a lead foot.
EVERYONE: HELLO SPEEDRACER!
Host: When did this all begin Speed Racer?
SR: Well, I don't know exactly. I don't mean to drive too fast - except for maybe when I'm in a hurry.
Host: How often are you in a hurry?
SR: All the time I guess. But there are times when I'm just daydreaming or listening to a really goood song and I step on the gas unaware of my speed.
Host: And what impact does this have on your life Ms. Speed Racer.
SR: Well, I've spent quite a bit of money paying tickets......
Host: Exactly how much?
SR: Let's just say I could have gone to Europe twice.
EVERYONE: OOOHHH NOOOOO!!
SR: My car insurance is also extremely high because of the tickets.
EVERYONE: OOOH NOOOOO!!
Host: Well, I'd say it's time for a change, wouldn't you?
SR: I believe it is. What do you thing I should do???????
EVERYONE: STOP DRIVING SO DANG ON FAST, OBEY THE SPEED LIMIT -- DUH!!!
Traffic tickets waste a lot of time and money. Both of which could be better used in many other areas of my ...um..I mean...our lives.....it is financially prudent to follow the rules so we can keep our money in our pockets where it belongs!
EVERYONE: HELLO SPEEDRACER!
Host: When did this all begin Speed Racer?
SR: Well, I don't know exactly. I don't mean to drive too fast - except for maybe when I'm in a hurry.
Host: How often are you in a hurry?
SR: All the time I guess. But there are times when I'm just daydreaming or listening to a really goood song and I step on the gas unaware of my speed.
Host: And what impact does this have on your life Ms. Speed Racer.
SR: Well, I've spent quite a bit of money paying tickets......
Host: Exactly how much?
SR: Let's just say I could have gone to Europe twice.
EVERYONE: OOOHHH NOOOOO!!
SR: My car insurance is also extremely high because of the tickets.
EVERYONE: OOOH NOOOOO!!
Host: Well, I'd say it's time for a change, wouldn't you?
SR: I believe it is. What do you thing I should do???????
EVERYONE: STOP DRIVING SO DANG ON FAST, OBEY THE SPEED LIMIT -- DUH!!!
Traffic tickets waste a lot of time and money. Both of which could be better used in many other areas of my ...um..I mean...our lives.....it is financially prudent to follow the rules so we can keep our money in our pockets where it belongs!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Obvious Gems
I went to a local restaurant to catch up with an old friend I hadn’t seen in about 3 years. It is a common hang out/meet-up spot in downtown Detroit that I’ve frequented a million times. As we were walking out my friend led me in a different direction and I was surprised to see there was a whole other side with more seating, bar and band that I NEVER knew was there. I asked if it was new and with a chuckle my friend said UH.. NO! It was funny because I’m a known downtown dweller, lover of most things Detroit.
There are a lot of new spots downtown that I could get a pass on not knowing about, but a place that has been in Detroit for as long as I have? – we both arrived in ’89 - no way! I couldn’t believe that after all these years of dinners and letsgettogethers, I didn’t know about the OTHER SIDE. No, I will not tell you the restaurant in order to spare myself from an onslaught of Dorethia, areyoukiddingme emails and jokes. I’ve already given you a hint anyway. I would like to keep my Detroiter Card in tact thank you very much!
I was thinking about how many times we miss out on an experience because we are used to doing things a certain way or taking a certain route. Oftentimes it’s unconsciously. I always came in and went to the bar or to tables in the direction I was used to. Life is the same way sometimes, things are right in front of us and instead of taking a moment to check it out, we step over it or ignore it to go in the direction that is familiar or safe to us. It would truly be a great benefit to be a little more attentive to our surroundings, the people in our lives, the experiences available to us - we may find a gem we passed over the first time (or a million times) around.
-Dorethia
There are a lot of new spots downtown that I could get a pass on not knowing about, but a place that has been in Detroit for as long as I have? – we both arrived in ’89 - no way! I couldn’t believe that after all these years of dinners and letsgettogethers, I didn’t know about the OTHER SIDE. No, I will not tell you the restaurant in order to spare myself from an onslaught of Dorethia, areyoukiddingme emails and jokes. I’ve already given you a hint anyway. I would like to keep my Detroiter Card in tact thank you very much!
I was thinking about how many times we miss out on an experience because we are used to doing things a certain way or taking a certain route. Oftentimes it’s unconsciously. I always came in and went to the bar or to tables in the direction I was used to. Life is the same way sometimes, things are right in front of us and instead of taking a moment to check it out, we step over it or ignore it to go in the direction that is familiar or safe to us. It would truly be a great benefit to be a little more attentive to our surroundings, the people in our lives, the experiences available to us - we may find a gem we passed over the first time (or a million times) around.
-Dorethia
Monday, May 12, 2008
Real Talk...
Hey Dee -
With the economy being what it is, what suggestion do you have for an individual who every blue moon is able to take a breathe due to my head being above water, but it seems that as I get closer to the door of prosperity the futher away it seems. It reminds me of that scene in Poltergist when the mother goes to check on her children and the faster she ran to the door of thier bedroom the further away the door was.
Get at Ya Mans,
-Roy
With the economy being what it is, what suggestion do you have for an individual who every blue moon is able to take a breathe due to my head being above water, but it seems that as I get closer to the door of prosperity the futher away it seems. It reminds me of that scene in Poltergist when the mother goes to check on her children and the faster she ran to the door of thier bedroom the further away the door was.
Due to my past I understand that who I am, is a direct result of who I was. I commend you and all your efforts to inform people so that they can take care of themselves. If at any step in your plight to enlighten I can assist you with a bit of REAL TALK - you let me know.
Get at Ya Mans,
-Roy
Paying The Price....
So, you've made some big financial mistakes? I’ve made some whoppers. We’ve all made some here or there. It's not the end of the world even though it seems that way when we're in the thick of it.
Okay, still a little down? I’ll give you one story for a good laugh at my expense....
Did I mention that I have absolutely nooo carpet in my home? Hey, I hear you laughing!! In my defense, it had a hardwood floor sweeper thingee…um…that was useless....
Needless to say, salesmen cannot come to my door with the latest gadget and I don’t borrow for anything anymore. Praise God – the light has come.
Okay, still a little down? I’ll give you one story for a good laugh at my expense....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Years ago a very charming lady knocked on my door with a super duper wonderful vacuum cleaner that floated on air and walked on water. It sucked up microscopic dirt out of carpet, mattresses, there was an attachment to blow up balloons and it even vacuum under the refrigerator. Ooooh Weee! All for the low, low price of $2,200 big ones! Are you serious? No thank you, pack it up, unless it will pay this mortgage too! A single mom, going to school, on a limited income, I certainly couldn't afford it. Plus, I didn't have any carpet!
Well then, Miss Charming says, hey you get yours free if you sell twenty in 90 days AND it will only take you a few hours a week to sell. I fell for it. I am a good salesperson, or so I thought, and 90 days is a long time to sell twenty of them. Mind you I had to finance mine first and only had 3 days from signing the paperwork to change my mind.
On the second day I called to return it - the thing was so cumbersome that you longed for a regular upright vacuum regardless of how much dirt and dust it blew back into the air. No, No, No – you need it – we’ll even throw in the super duper mopping attachment for free that is worth another $500. Call me sucker, because that’s what I was! I kept the vac and resolved to trying to sell twenty so I didn't have to pay for mine. DUMB DA DUMB DUMB DUMB.
Well I went on one appointment, to try to sell it, then I felt guilty – no one I knew could afford a $2,200 vacuum cleaner. Now, what kind of person am I if I try to sell it to them knowing this? Not to mention, to be a success at anything takes way more than just a few hours a week.
I struggled like crazy to pay it off, I was already overextended and couldn't squeeze $5 more dollars out of my budget let alone a monthly payment on a monster vac.
Well then, Miss Charming says, hey you get yours free if you sell twenty in 90 days AND it will only take you a few hours a week to sell. I fell for it. I am a good salesperson, or so I thought, and 90 days is a long time to sell twenty of them. Mind you I had to finance mine first and only had 3 days from signing the paperwork to change my mind.
On the second day I called to return it - the thing was so cumbersome that you longed for a regular upright vacuum regardless of how much dirt and dust it blew back into the air. No, No, No – you need it – we’ll even throw in the super duper mopping attachment for free that is worth another $500. Call me sucker, because that’s what I was! I kept the vac and resolved to trying to sell twenty so I didn't have to pay for mine. DUMB DA DUMB DUMB DUMB.
Well I went on one appointment, to try to sell it, then I felt guilty – no one I knew could afford a $2,200 vacuum cleaner. Now, what kind of person am I if I try to sell it to them knowing this? Not to mention, to be a success at anything takes way more than just a few hours a week.
I struggled like crazy to pay it off, I was already overextended and couldn't squeeze $5 more dollars out of my budget let alone a monthly payment on a monster vac.
Did I mention that I have absolutely nooo carpet in my home? Hey, I hear you laughing!! In my defense, it had a hardwood floor sweeper thingee…um…that was useless....
Needless to say, salesmen cannot come to my door with the latest gadget and I don’t borrow for anything anymore. Praise God – the light has come.
So if you have goofed up with money and debt, it’s not the end of the world. Your problems may be bigger than a vacuum, but there's always hope. We always get a DO OVER. Yeah, you may have a mess to clean up, that's alright -begin again!
Read, listen to, devour, all the information you can about budgeting, paying your bills, saving money, planning for your future and staying out of debt. All of it won’t be good advice for you – so eat the hay and spit the sticks, but at least get on the road to changing your situation!
As for the super-duper vac? A girlfriend of mine has had it for quite some time now and I may get it back – if I ever buy carpet.
As for the super-duper vac? A girlfriend of mine has had it for quite some time now and I may get it back – if I ever buy carpet.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
The Big Question!!!!
Okay, I've had several people ask me what I'm doing with my rebate check. When I respond that I'm paying off a bill - They exclaim NOOO! DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELF!!!!
You know, go on a nice vacation, go shopping, update your t.v. girl, 'cause.. um.. you only have one and it is not a flat screen. The bills will always be there....
Well, one less bill to pay is something for myself, freeing up some money every month and getting even closer to being completely and totally debt free IS SOMETHING FOR MYSELF!!!
The way things are going we will all to have to use our rebates as emergency funds for gas, milk and eggs anyway!
You know, go on a nice vacation, go shopping, update your t.v. girl, 'cause.. um.. you only have one and it is not a flat screen. The bills will always be there....
Well, one less bill to pay is something for myself, freeing up some money every month and getting even closer to being completely and totally debt free IS SOMETHING FOR MYSELF!!!
The way things are going we will all to have to use our rebates as emergency funds for gas, milk and eggs anyway!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Not Your Thing?
A lot of people tell me, Dorethia, I like what you’re teaching, but budgeting, balancing, etc. – all that is not my ‘thing’. I ask them if MONEY is their thing? We all like money and we all want some more.
The truth is you are not going to accumulate much money LATER if you don’t develop a few simple habits NOW. If you don’t decide to budget each pay, have a plan for saving and spending, and balance your checkbook while you are making $12/hour – money will slip through your hands when you’re making $100/hr. What will happen when a big contract or other opportunity comes your way down the line? The fruits will be spoiled because you haven’t developed any discipline when it comes to your personal finances.
We all know people who work everyday, make decent money, have minimal bills and are always broke. Why? Spending without a plan or an account of where it went. In every area of our lives we must do what it takes to be successful - spiritual, family, career, relationships, and MONEY. Diligent money management allows us to:
a. Have Some
b. Give Some
c. Preserve Some
So, go forth and make budgeting, balancing and banking your 'thing'!
The truth is you are not going to accumulate much money LATER if you don’t develop a few simple habits NOW. If you don’t decide to budget each pay, have a plan for saving and spending, and balance your checkbook while you are making $12/hour – money will slip through your hands when you’re making $100/hr. What will happen when a big contract or other opportunity comes your way down the line? The fruits will be spoiled because you haven’t developed any discipline when it comes to your personal finances.
We all know people who work everyday, make decent money, have minimal bills and are always broke. Why? Spending without a plan or an account of where it went. In every area of our lives we must do what it takes to be successful - spiritual, family, career, relationships, and MONEY. Diligent money management allows us to:
a. Have Some
b. Give Some
c. Preserve Some
So, go forth and make budgeting, balancing and banking your 'thing'!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Get Back On the Horse!
Even for the most astute, money management can be a task. You’ve got a million things going on, you forget to pay this bill or log that trip to the ATM … and we all know it only takes one transaction to throw your account off. Who of us hasn’t experienced that dreadful moment when we realize that because of a simple error, we now have to pay overdraft fees the equivalent of a car note!
For some of us the error isn’t so simple, it is clearly poor management. We don’t know what’s in our account, we are spending and letting the chips fall where they may, crossing our fingers in line at Target, praying it ‘goes through’.
Whatever the case - when you fall off the horse, get back on it! Don't beat yourself up, just shake it off, saddle up and keep on moving.
I remember an episode from 'Everybody Loves Raymond' where Ray and his wife were arguing about money and of course he insisted he could do a better job so she told him to take it over. He botched it up horribly and then went through great pains to create a 'fake' checkbook so she wouldn't know. It was hilarious! Well the electricity ended up disconnected and of course his wife was furious. If he had put the same energy into correctly managing the finances as he did in creating the fake checkbook, his lights would have still been on! ha ha
Even as you become an expert at managing your own money, you may make mistakes...we're human. Start over if you have to, redo that page in the checkbook --- just make sure you have the correct amounts!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Mayor Kilpatrick - Do the Math...
Detroit politics have left me exhausted! Truly, every day it is something different. I am saddened as the nation watches what is going on in our city and wonder as many of us do - what is going on?
I voted for Mayor Kilpatrick the first term, I was a staunch supporter. A great orator, his charisma and knowledge in the political and business arena made him the best candidate in my eyes. I dismissed early rumblings as folks just not liking him, trying to look for something negative. But after the first 2 years - I was done. There was just too much even then. I was disappointed and still am because the Mayor has a wealth of talents that he seems to be squandering. He had an opportunity to seal his future in politics or whatever career path he chose.
Anyway - on to the math.....
Granted, I'm not the mayor of a major metropolitan city, but you get the point.
The mayor and his mom and his pastor have called for us to pray for him and his family. I'm a praying woman - consider that done - but I want the mayor and his family and advisors to pray as well and truly ask if it isn't time to call it quits.
What has Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick Done for Detroit?
In order to be fair - I did find this list from a poster of good things Kwame has done in the city. I cannot confirm nor deny any of it and if anyone has any info please share. I can say that there have been new housing starts and our downtown looks better than ever thanks to him. Read on...
Balanced Detroits budget to avoid receivership
Organized the Transformation Growth Comittee - which is a big reason why Detroit has had so much revitalization downtown.
Organized the Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization- which is working on the improvement of 8 detroit areas including improvement on lighting, streetscaping, and facade.
Detroit 12 yr tax abatement- which gives Detroit residences a break on their taxes for the first 12 yrs. This has really pushed the property sales in Detroit. -(This is a little misleading, it only applies to wealthy residents in certain neighborhoods, namely closer to downtown - the everyday person in Detroit doesn't benefit)
I voted for Mayor Kilpatrick the first term, I was a staunch supporter. A great orator, his charisma and knowledge in the political and business arena made him the best candidate in my eyes. I dismissed early rumblings as folks just not liking him, trying to look for something negative. But after the first 2 years - I was done. There was just too much even then. I was disappointed and still am because the Mayor has a wealth of talents that he seems to be squandering. He had an opportunity to seal his future in politics or whatever career path he chose.
Anyway - on to the math.....
I can't ALMOST lose 26 million in much needed (or not needed for that matter) funds and KEEP MY JOB.
I can't be behind 2-3 years in financial reports and KEEP MY JOB.
I can't cause my company to be sued for 8.4 million dollars and KEEP MY JOB.
I can't lose a major conference/client deal (Mayors Conference) that would bring big money to the company and KEEP MY JOB
I definitely can't publicly smear the company image and goodwill in the community and among businesses and KEEP MY JOB.
Granted, I'm not the mayor of a major metropolitan city, but you get the point.
The mayor and his mom and his pastor have called for us to pray for him and his family. I'm a praying woman - consider that done - but I want the mayor and his family and advisors to pray as well and truly ask if it isn't time to call it quits.
What has Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick Done for Detroit?
In order to be fair - I did find this list from a poster of good things Kwame has done in the city. I cannot confirm nor deny any of it and if anyone has any info please share. I can say that there have been new housing starts and our downtown looks better than ever thanks to him. Read on...
Balanced Detroits budget to avoid receivership
Organized the Transformation Growth Comittee - which is a big reason why Detroit has had so much revitalization downtown.
Organized the Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization- which is working on the improvement of 8 detroit areas including improvement on lighting, streetscaping, and facade.
Detroit 12 yr tax abatement- which gives Detroit residences a break on their taxes for the first 12 yrs. This has really pushed the property sales in Detroit. -(This is a little misleading, it only applies to wealthy residents in certain neighborhoods, namely closer to downtown - the everyday person in Detroit doesn't benefit)
Monday, March 3, 2008
Is Your Company an LLC? MEET WITH YOURSELF!
Hey!! Here's an interesting tip that I didn't know........
If you are an LLC you must, must, must make sure that you separate your personal from the business!! Uh, Duh Dorethia we knew that!! .....Okay....you knew you had to have an Operating Agreement and a separate bank account....but did you know that even if you have a single member LLC you also had to have regular meetings.....WITH YOURSELF!! Yes, with yourself. These meetings must be on the calendar, scheduled and you must outline what you 'discussed'.
I was at a thing, talking to a guy and he was telling me about 2 cases in which the LLC owners were personally held liable in lawsuits based on this one criteria. I believe they were in the Metro Detroit area, can't remember but I will try to find the cases soon to post as well.
In all the research you do, you will probably never find this little tid bit of info....well at least I didn't...anyway...get to scheduling those meetings...WITH YOURSELF!! Mine starts in about 20 minutes....ha ha.
Friday, February 15, 2008
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