Search found 2125 matches
- Tue Mar 26, 2024 11:20 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Volvo CPO Extended Warranty
- Replies: 28
- Views: 6026
Re: Volvo CPO Extended Warranty
@RootSki, Looking back, do you think you make the right call? I just bought a 2021 CPO XC60 (about 31K miles) and was offered the 10-year extension (which I know is somewhat of a misnomer) from the NJ dealership for $3,864. I was Googling for insights and came upon this thread. Buying an extended warranty goes against every rule of personal finance I've ever read. But in this case--with visions of my car sitting in the shop with strange maladies and tech failures--I'm seriously considering it. Thanks. I see this is an older thread but we recently went through a similar discussion. My wife bought a CPO Mercedes SUV and opted to get the additional two years of factory warranty on top of the CPO warranty. Because Benz repairs can be expensive...
- Tue Mar 26, 2024 5:56 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
Am I missing something? How do you post pics in the body of a post? I just see the IMG button as opposed to an actual attachment type button.
- Mon Mar 25, 2024 5:05 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
I can’t play from memory, it’s why I’d never be able to do Irish sessions. Need the sheet music, and a metronome won’t be refused either.gunny2 wrote: ↑Mon Mar 25, 2024 4:50 pmMe too. I can kinda sorta read music, but I hated it so much I decided to just play by memorization.madbrain wrote: ↑Mon Mar 25, 2024 3:16 pmThat is the hardest part for me. I pretty much have to memorize everything I play.investingdad wrote: ↑Mon Mar 25, 2024 10:34 am Now reading two different lines of music at the same time? Yeah, no thanks!
- Mon Mar 25, 2024 10:34 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
I disagree. I started at age 43 and have been playing now for seven years. I possess zero special skill or talent. I posted my progress on here to document how it’s been going after asking other BHs what they thought about starting the violin as an adult. I can say with 100% confidence that anyone that wants to lean to play and makes a sincere effort will likely achieve a basic proficiency after five years. I can say with 100% confidence that it isn't true for everyone (and you are not giving yourself enough credit). Anything which requires skill and talent to do at a proficient level or better is something not everyone can do. Some pick it up easily, some not so easily, some never will no matter how hard they try. Sure you have to put the...
- Mon Mar 25, 2024 8:31 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
$45k for a violin. +$3.5k for a bow. Both worth it. Nice, pictures? What is the story of the violin? Are you a professional musician? I started playing about seven years ago and have documented on here. My violin was about a quarter of that and worth every penny. FWIW, here's a pic of my violin. https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/d/1-jvsmwagTWJgNav_jAVzyNBzX3gFHt8V I am not a professional violinist. I took lessons for 10 years as a kid, ages 9-19. I stopped playing after sophomore year in college. And then I didn't play for 40 years! A year or so after I retired, I dug out my old violin from under the bed. Even though I thought I remembered everything in my head, I couldn't bow an open string without hitting another string! Muscle memory go...
- Mon Mar 25, 2024 8:28 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
I disagree.
I started at age 43 and have been playing now for seven years. I possess zero special skill or talent. I posted my progress on here to document how it’s been going after asking other BHs what they thought about starting the violin as an adult.
I can say with 100% confidence that anyone that wants to lean to play and makes a sincere effort will likely achieve a basic proficiency after five years.
- Sat Mar 23, 2024 6:50 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
Nice, pictures?
What is the story of the violin? Are you a professional musician?
I started playing about seven years ago and have documented on here. My violin was about a quarter of that and worth every penny.
- Fri Mar 22, 2024 10:10 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Replies: 253
- Views: 18245
Re: What Toys Have You Bought That Have Been Worth it?
- Billiards table in our finished basement, a lot of people get one and then don’t use it but I love shooting pool. Olhausen so made in America.
- violin. That was pricey, like more than two billiards tables pricey. Probably the best purchase I ever made for an item only I would use.
- Tissot watch
- Jura capresso fully automatic coffee maker, we do love our espresso
- violin. That was pricey, like more than two billiards tables pricey. Probably the best purchase I ever made for an item only I would use.
- Tissot watch
- Jura capresso fully automatic coffee maker, we do love our espresso
- Thu Mar 21, 2024 6:15 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: In-laws 529 for grandkids, bite my lip or say something?
- Replies: 58
- Views: 5895
Re: In-laws 529 for grandkids, bite my lip or say something?
Well, I guess this was a polarizing topic! My gut was bite my lip, but it certainly felt good to at least vent here. While we have a great relationship with them, I do worry that they "trust" their FA and this will be more seen as a criticism of him...sigh. FWIW, coming from a family with not that much money myself, I asked my FIL to introduce me to his FA when I was about 24 years old and looking at Roth IRA. I posted a question about what he suggested on a different forum (GetRichSlowly, sadly not around anymore)...and they all told me to run -- he suggested a front load C share high expense ratio target fund. So I've known for a long time what kind of investments this guy offers. Luckily the internet told me to run for the hil...
- Thu Mar 21, 2024 1:38 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: In-laws 529 for grandkids, bite my lip or say something?
- Replies: 58
- Views: 5895
Re: In-laws 529 for grandkids, bite my lip or say something?
It pains me to say it but biting your lip is probably best. If they're anything like my dad, they believe what they’re doing is correct and won’t listen to contrary advice.
I asked my dad why he was so invested in one particular fund family that is, in my opinion, ripping him off on fees and I got the answer that it pays him X dollars a month with solid returns.
There was no point debating because he was convinced he was correct. I think the fund was recommend by an advisor so you can fill in the blanks.
I asked my dad why he was so invested in one particular fund family that is, in my opinion, ripping him off on fees and I got the answer that it pays him X dollars a month with solid returns.
There was no point debating because he was convinced he was correct. I think the fund was recommend by an advisor so you can fill in the blanks.
- Thu Mar 21, 2024 1:20 pm
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
- Replies: 72
- Views: 9353
Re: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
I’m glad this thread was revived.
I posted this in Aug 2016.
Since then our net worth increased by a factor of 2.4. Now that metric by itself says little, it could have gone from $100 to $240.
So let’s look at it this way without me actually sharing our net worth:
Aug 2016…portfolio was at 35.5% of my target number to be FIRE.
March 2024…portfolio is at 85.5% of my target number to be FIRE.
Expected age to be FIRE is 54. That will be in 3.5 years and four years sooner than I was forecasting in 2016.
No direct real estate investing.
I posted this in Aug 2016.
Since then our net worth increased by a factor of 2.4. Now that metric by itself says little, it could have gone from $100 to $240.
So let’s look at it this way without me actually sharing our net worth:
Aug 2016…portfolio was at 35.5% of my target number to be FIRE.
March 2024…portfolio is at 85.5% of my target number to be FIRE.
Expected age to be FIRE is 54. That will be in 3.5 years and four years sooner than I was forecasting in 2016.
No direct real estate investing.
- Thu Mar 21, 2024 10:57 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
- Replies: 72
- Views: 9353
Re: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
For what it’s worth, I’m only counting the value of our home based on purchase price plus a couple of key improvements we made and not the Zillow value.
If I used the Zillow value I would be adding another 150K to our net worth. But to me home equity is not easily tapped and thus not worth considering for retirement modelling..
If I used the Zillow value I would be adding another 150K to our net worth. But to me home equity is not easily tapped and thus not worth considering for retirement modelling..
- Thu Mar 21, 2024 9:27 am
- Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
- Topic: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
- Replies: 72
- Views: 9353
Re: Did you use Real Estate to build wealth?
I’m still here. Still not a landlord. Still following the same strategy from not just 8 years ago but almost 30 years ago.
Our home at the moment is maybe 8.5% of our net worth. But it’s a meaningless stat as I’m only concerned about our portfolio value.
We are running further ahead of schedule than we were at the time I posted this. I appreciate the check in on my old post!
- Wed Feb 28, 2024 11:03 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Want to leave timeshare.
- Replies: 111
- Views: 12273
Re: Want to leave timeshare.
We took over a Disney Vacation Club timeshare from a family member via gifting. There’s about 12 years left on it and we just pay the annual fees. We enjoy the resort without needing to be in the parks and for us this works.
- Tue Feb 27, 2024 8:59 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dental crowns
- Replies: 60
- Views: 8067
Re: Dental crowns
Someone has to have a name of a US trained Dental practice working outside the US in a great vacation spot for a little medical tourism. A huge part of all of this is followup and problem solving. When I was in practice I had a patient or two go to Mexico for some complicated implant restorations. When she developed problems....nope, not gonna touch that. Last one to touch it, owns it. It was probably going to cost her $10k to get it resolved and fixed. Keep it local. Got that right. Mine was complicated and I knew going in I was looking at a multi step process. No way I’m doing anything but local should interim problems come up. It’s been a couple years now and everything went great but my surgeon told me up front it was going to be tricky.
- Tue Feb 27, 2024 8:37 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Dental crowns
- Replies: 60
- Views: 8067
Re: Dental crowns
In the Philly region I’ve seen billboards citing $888 for an implant.
The devil is in the details.
I have an upper front implant that was very complicated due to the need to do grafting to repair abscess damage. My process took 24 months start to finish, not an $888 job.
The devil is in the details.
I have an upper front implant that was very complicated due to the need to do grafting to repair abscess damage. My process took 24 months start to finish, not an $888 job.
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 9:48 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: College cheating, what would you do?
- Replies: 64
- Views: 4453
Re: College cheating, what would you do?
She already recognizes that reporting her could come back and bite her. But she’s brought it up several times to me because it really irritates her, which I completely understand. She’s having her eyes opened to the reality of lying and cheating for the purpose of self advancement, something I’m happy to say she has not learned or seen from my wife or I.
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 8:57 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: College cheating, what would you do?
- Replies: 64
- Views: 4453
College cheating, what would you do?
My daughter is in her freshman year of college at a Big Ten university. She’s on a partial academic scholarship and is doing very well academically. Her living/dorm situation has been a toxic mess and we’ll be relieved when she can finally get away from the current roommate. Which brings me to the point of my post. My daughter has become aware that her roommate cheats….and not just cheat, blatantly cheats. She apparently has been using ChatGPT (the AI tool) to compose ALL of her papers this semester. All of them. She even discussed it over the phone when ChatGPT was returning nonsense data. She has also used it to complete remote exams. My daughter has overheard her discussing this multiple times with various people. She has gone from disbe...
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 6:38 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I’m calling it out. I'd accept it without saying a word. I'd call that in most of the time because if it's close (if I don't see a gap) I'm calling it in (And probably say "nice shot!"). We're not playing for money here. It's supposed to be fun. I like the idea of "pickleball justice" (or karma) someone mentioned before. When people call that out, I accept it, and then they screw up the serve or the return next shot and I think "Yep, you felt guilty for calling that out" We regularly play with people that call balls out that are in by the rule book … we just agree they have decided they aren’t following the written rules for some reason. I assume it’s in order to try to win. Life is like that. The example that...
- Fri Feb 23, 2024 5:56 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
PB justice is real, same phenomenon in tennis.HomerJ wrote: ↑Thu Feb 22, 2024 11:20 pmI'd accept it without saying a word.
I'd call that in most of the time because if it's close (if I don't see a gap) I'm calling it in (And probably say "nice shot!"). We're not playing for money here. It's supposed to be fun.
I like the idea of "pickleball justice" (or karma) someone mentioned before.
When people call that out, I accept it, and then they screw up the serve or the return next shot and I think "Yep, you felt guilty for calling that out"
But I won’t feel guilty on that particular call.
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 9:07 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
The official PB rules are happily clear on how to handle line calls. You don't call a ball "out" unless you can *clearly* see space between the line and the ball as it bounces. If one player on a team sees it out, and the other player on the team sees it in, then "doubt exists" and team's call is in. It depends on what you mean by "clearly". Here's an explanation with a picture: Basics - Judging Ball "In" or "Out" | USA Pickleball https://usapickleball.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/in-or-out1.jpg From: USA-Pickleball-Official-Rulebook-2024-v1.pdf , page 31. The first two sentences are what I go by. 6.C.3. The opponent gets the benefit of the doubt on line calls made. Any ball that cannot b...
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 6:18 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
The official PB rules are happily clear on how to handle line calls. You don't call a ball "out" unless you can *clearly* see space between the line and the ball as it bounces. If one player on a team sees it out, and the other player on the team sees it in, then "doubt exists" and team's call is in. It depends on what you mean by "clearly". Here's an explanation with a picture: Basics - Judging Ball "In" or "Out" | USA Pickleball https://usapickleball.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/in-or-out1.jpg From: USA-Pickleball-Official-Rulebook-2024-v1.pdf , page 31. The first two sentences are what I go by. 6.C.3. The opponent gets the benefit of the doubt on line calls made. Any ball that cannot b...
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 4:33 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I’m convinced there’s a phenomenon in pickleball where some people have this idea you’re supposed to play a certain way and when you don’t they get irritated. This seems especially true when PB players who have never played tennis encounter former tennis players. I doubt it is a "former tennis player" thing. I figure every PB venue on the planet has a bunch of former (and current!) tennis players. They are literally everywhere. If your tennis methods mean your team always wins, then you are just better than the other players and should seek out stronger competition. If your team does not always win, then perhaps there are pickleballisms to consider. Sometimes a dink IS the right shot. I do run into some PB players that labor unde...
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 4:27 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
One area which limits my ability to improve is that I constantly return shots that are going out of bounds. If I can reach for it, I'll return the shot. Every time. The more experienced players tell me not to do that. They're right, because the play continues and we'll lose the point. So, exercise control and don't hit the ball when you know it's going out. Agree with line calls, tough at times. Where I play if we are not certain, most say "in". Letting balls fly: What really helps with this, is having court position awareness. I played open play last night, and my partner absolutely killed us with not letting balls go, he was fully aware of what he was doing but just couldn't resist trying to return every shot. Frustrating. :ann...
- Thu Feb 22, 2024 4:25 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
Court awareness takes time. There is no substitution for experience on the court.LadyGeek wrote: ↑Thu Feb 22, 2024 3:20 pm One area which limits my ability to improve is that I constantly return shots that are going out of bounds. If I can reach for it, I'll return the shot. Every time.
The more experienced players tell me not to do that. They're right, because the play continues and we'll lose the point. So, exercise control and don't hit the ball when you know it's going out.
I’ve found that a lot of people don’t have a good sense of line awareness and ball flight anticipation. This is where tennis experience really helps a lot because it’s a skill that’s already been developed.
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:15 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
My experience above was in open play. Where I play also has times for just beginner, just intermediate, and just advanced. I can only make the open play and I try to gravitate to the strongest court.
I’m 50, not 20. Some guy my age whining about hitting the ball too hard? Come on, man. It’s open play and it’s not like I got 30 years on you.
I’m 50, not 20. Some guy my age whining about hitting the ball too hard? Come on, man. It’s open play and it’s not like I got 30 years on you.
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 8:46 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I’m convinced there’s a phenomenon in pickleball where some people have this idea you’re supposed to play a certain way and when you don’t they get irritated.
This seems especially true when PB players who have never played tennis encounter former tennis players.
This seems especially true when PB players who have never played tennis encounter former tennis players.
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 5:26 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
If I’m moving to the kitchen at the time the opposing team returns serve I’m watching the returner the whole way. It’s not difficult to: -anticipate the shot type based on body position and swing motion -change course and move back …especially if you’re moving with your body not fully square to the net. PB courts are not that big. I’ve also observed that a lot of players don’t understand how to run down and return lobs. I also have trouble with lobs -- a table tennis background not tennis. Not uncommon. In the faster games, it's rare for the partner of the server to advance much on serve. The serve is deep (or should be) and the return deep (the return doesn't even have to be that fast ... just deep). If the return of serve is clearly shor...
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 3:22 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
If I’m moving to the kitchen at the time the opposing team returns serve I’m watching the returner the whole way. It’s not difficult to:
-anticipate the shot type based on body position and swing motion
-change course and move back
…especially if you’re moving with your body not fully square to the net.
PB courts are not that big.
I’ve also observed that a lot of players don’t understand how to run down and return lobs.
-anticipate the shot type based on body position and swing motion
-change course and move back
…especially if you’re moving with your body not fully square to the net.
PB courts are not that big.
I’ve also observed that a lot of players don’t understand how to run down and return lobs.
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 2:58 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I’m moving to the kitchen as soon as my partner serves but he didn’t have time to get there on my third shot? Not understanding at all. You cannot move to the kitchen "as soon as your partner serves". You have to hang back when your partner serves, due to two bounce rule. And yes, he didn't have time to get to kitchen on your third shot. If you are firing away your third shot against good players, they are both at the net, and they can easily handle your drive. Your partner will not have time to get to the net before your opponent returns your drive. But there are more reasons not to drive your third shot. Unless you are extremely skillful and consistent, your opponent will put away any shots you make that don't just barely clear...
- Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:27 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I ran into a guy during open play at the one location I attend that took issue with my tennis approach. Not only did he have comments when he played against me, he had comments while we were paired up. I’m hitting too hard from the baseline and need to drop shot. Uh, ok. I hit return of serve hard and rush the kitchen line and I hit the third shot hard and rush the kitchen line. I’m not standing on the baseline hitting ground strokes. He also complained that my third shot drive was too fast and not giving him enough time to get to the net. Third shot! I’m moving to the kitchen as soon as my partner serves but he didn’t have time to get there on my third shot? I play with two different groups and there are some people that really seem to not...
- Mon Feb 19, 2024 6:26 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
- Fri Feb 16, 2024 9:00 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Any recommendation of a book that chronicles the downward spiral of an ordinary person
- Replies: 102
- Views: 9420
Re: Any recommendation of a book that chronicles the downward spiral of an ordinary person
Not a book, but both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul feature main characters whose slow burn descent into a downward spiral destroy the lives of everyone around them.
- Fri Feb 09, 2024 8:42 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
- Replies: 129
- Views: 24661
Re: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
We have a Jura fully automatic. It’s the best. My wife and I make at least 4 cups daily and mine are always doubles. This is going to be our splurge this year. Probably either an E8 or Z10, or the S8 if it gets updated before we're ready to buy. As for the thread topic, last year I bought the modern version of a car I've been lusting after since I was a teenager. It cost just slightly more--in nominal dollars--than my last three vehicles combined. :shock: But we're doing well (just crossed a major investment milestone last month), I enjoy it and am keeping it forever. We have a previous generation E8. It replaced our original Jura of similar model that made it it through over 12,000 servings. Not sure what this one is up to but it’s a wond...
- Tue Feb 06, 2024 8:33 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
- Replies: 129
- Views: 24661
Re: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
I don’t think at 50 I’ve had a midlife crisis.
But for my 50th birthday I bought myself a Tissot automatic watch. I was never a watch person and it was on a whim. I now wear it everyday and absolutely love it; a $550 purchase. I may buy myself a Longines as well , maybe at 60. I can’t believe I typed “60”… cripes.
Not midlife crisis but midlife…accomplishment? A few months ago at age 50 I mustered the courage to perform in public for the first time with my small string ensemble class, well documented on another thread.
But for my 50th birthday I bought myself a Tissot automatic watch. I was never a watch person and it was on a whim. I now wear it everyday and absolutely love it; a $550 purchase. I may buy myself a Longines as well , maybe at 60. I can’t believe I typed “60”… cripes.
Not midlife crisis but midlife…accomplishment? A few months ago at age 50 I mustered the courage to perform in public for the first time with my small string ensemble class, well documented on another thread.
- Tue Feb 06, 2024 8:28 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
- Replies: 129
- Views: 24661
Re: Best & Worst "Mid-Life Crisis" expenditures
Explore new ways to make coffee: https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=419809 A good espresso machine, a grinder, and freshly roasted beans is a game changer if you drink coffee. And, you can even justify it financially if you are paying $4-$6 daily for your fancy coffee drink. Or, a good machine, grinder, and freshly roasted beans (complete with a roaster)... Along with 4-6 a day for (not) fancy coffee :mrgreen: I had a bunch of money on crate and barrel gift cards. Bought a nice jura. The coffee is great. I’m not sure that I taste the difference enough that the machine was worth it. But I had family staying with me and everyone said this is the best coffee they ever had. So there is no longer any temptation to go to Starbucks ...
- Fri Jan 19, 2024 1:02 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
I wouldn’t hit the panic button just yet. I would agree. You'd be surprised what can be done while playing with a medical limitations. Without going into details, I play with lots of people with various injuries (my knee was replaced last year). In fact, it's a great opening line to meet someone. All we talk about is medical problems. :) Ha! Yep. Nearly all our guys are retirees. Back issues, broken arms, hip replacements and hernias. The latest is an upcoming double knee replacement. Appreciate the feeling of optimism and agree on touch shots. The speed up and power forehands are what have me conerned the most. Hoping I can (literally) pick up a paddle in 6 weeks. In the mean time, the edema and early PT will be my seesaw of pain. Cheers!...
- Fri Jan 19, 2024 9:10 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
Been playing for 1.5 years. Am totally addicted an play as much as my work and family time allow. 3.5 player. My father and his neighbor both have a court and we play for 2hrs at a time. I am usually playing with guys 20yrs older than I, with some obvious advantages, but the socialization is the biggest benefit. I love playing. I find the biggest discerning elements of play that limit player ability are 1) (not) playing as a team (moving up and back for offense/defense) 2) "setting your partner up" to get drilled in the shins and 3) not learning third shot drop and/or giving yourself time to get to the kitchen to neutralize the point. (100% "bangers"). I was looking forward to 2024, then fractured my right (dominant) wr...
- Wed Jan 17, 2024 8:46 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
Since starting pickleball I’ve had injury after injury, none related to falls: strained Achilles (6 months of tough rehab), pulled hamstring (3 months) and tennis elbow (8 months). As a 67 yo former college tennis player and part time tennis instructor in good shape, the most surprising injury was tennis elbow but I think all the injuries were age related. I decided to go to a physiatrist, we had a good talk about what exercises were appropriate to extend my tennis and pickleball career and I worked with a trainer to measure and improve muscle strength, flexibility and the ratio of strength between certain muscle groups (for example calf to hamstring). Knock on wood, I feel great and haven’t had an injury since. Best, As I think about it, ...
- Fri Jan 12, 2024 5:35 pm
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
When I teed off on PB shots, I was aiming down the line or trying to split my opponents…hitting at them seemed to easy to defend. As long as the ball was hitting on the same line as their feet it wasn’t coming back. I hit a few passing shot winners down the line on the opponents forehand side that felt wonderful, huge topspin just pulls that PB right down to the ground. Actually, my understanding is that when both are at the non volley line, hitting directly towards the shoulder of your opponent's playing hand is considered a good tactic. Not enough time to move the body, and awkward to return. Not appropriate if your opponent is a low level rec. player who is uncomfortable with hard shots in their direction, but a lot of rec. players now ...
- Fri Jan 12, 2024 8:05 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
- Replies: 377
- Views: 89969
Re: Who's up for pickleball? Zero-zero-two. Game On!
When I teed off on PB shots, I was aiming down the line or trying to split my opponents…hitting at them seemed to easy to defend. As long as the ball was hitting on the same line as their feet it wasn’t coming back. I hit a few passing shot winners down the line on the opponents forehand side that felt wonderful, huge topspin just pulls that PB right down to the ground. Actually, my understanding is that when both are at the non volley line, hitting directly towards the shoulder of your opponent's playing hand is considered a good tactic. Not enough time to move the body, and awkward to return. Not appropriate if your opponent is a low level rec. player who is uncomfortable with hard shots in their direction, but a lot of rec. players now ...
- Wed Jan 10, 2024 11:22 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
It's amazing what will freeze up and when. I am fine with public speaking, but playing music is so much more nerve-wracking for me. When I have been able to control this, it has usually involved "bringing on" the nerves early -- sort of anticipating the shock and getting used to it, then walking out calm because I'm ready for it. Again, something you can practice, but it's funny and unpredictable sometimes. Ovation! Loved your playing! Freezing up is the out of control ego diminishing you of course. I’m also learning how to deal with this. My teacher has given me a few tips. Before playing stand up tall and straight and spend some time feeling the neck, shoulders arms and fingers fully relax. Move your head around and put your au...
- Wed Jan 10, 2024 9:37 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
I meant the audience.
- Wed Jan 10, 2024 9:02 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
When performing on violin, I have found it helpful to start with something fast-paced (e.g., Allegro) to give the initial burst of adrenaline that leads to shaky bow a chance to calm down. Professional musicians sometimes take a dose of propranolol about 30 min before getting on stage to reduce the jitters that can really be evident when performing on a stringed instument. Your sequence suggestion makes a lot of sense. Unfortunately the instructor elected to start with the slow piece that’s also more technically challenging. We should have started with the easier, upbeat holiday medley to cover the jitters and build confidence. My violin teacher also mentioned a beta blocker and admitted she’s used them a few a times when it was an importa...
- Wed Jan 10, 2024 8:00 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
When performing on violin, I have found it helpful to start with something fast-paced (e.g., Allegro) to give the initial burst of adrenaline that leads to shaky bow a chance to calm down. Professional musicians sometimes take a dose of propranolol about 30 min before getting on stage to reduce the jitters that can really be evident when performing on a stringed instument. Your sequence suggestion makes a lot of sense. Unfortunately the instructor elected to start with the slow piece that’s also more technically challenging. We should have started with the easier, upbeat holiday medley to cover the jitters and build confidence. My violin teacher also mentioned a beta blocker and admitted she’s used them a few a times when it was an importa...
- Wed Jan 10, 2024 7:59 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
It's amazing what will freeze up and when. I am fine with public speaking, but playing music is so much more nerve-wracking for me. When I have been able to control this, it has usually involved "bringing on" the nerves early -- sort of anticipating the shock and getting used to it, then walking out calm because I'm ready for it. Again, something you can practice, but it's funny and unpredictable sometimes. Ovation! Loved your playing! Freezing up is the out of control ego diminishing you of course. I’m also learning how to deal with this. My teacher has given me a few tips. Before playing stand up tall and straight and spend some time feeling the neck, shoulders arms and fingers fully relax. Move your head around and put your au...
- Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:43 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
I've been following this for all 7 years (yikes!), and I'm so happy you're still at it and still posting about it. You've received some good new data about your response to public performance -- that's a good thing to know about yourself. Just as you can study and practice to get "substantively" better at the instrument, you can study and practice to get "procedurally" (?) better at the performance aspect. There are plenty of things you can do to affect your reaction to nerves, especially pre-performance routines. Congrats on sticking with it. This has been fun to be a very remote bystander to. The funny thing about this is that for my megacorp job I often present to large groups of colleagues, do client technical prese...
- Tue Jan 09, 2024 11:41 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
I've been following this for all 7 years (yikes!), and I'm so happy you're still at it and still posting about it. You've received some good new data about your response to public performance -- that's a good thing to know about yourself. Just as you can study and practice to get "substantively" better at the instrument, you can study and practice to get "procedurally" (?) better at the performance aspect. There are plenty of things you can do to affect your reaction to nerves, especially pre-performance routines. Congrats on sticking with it. This has been fun to be a very remote bystander to. The funny thing about this is that for my megacorp job I often present to large groups of colleagues, do client technical prese...
- Tue Jan 09, 2024 8:36 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
I've been following this for all 7 years (yikes!), and I'm so happy you're still at it and still posting about it. You've received some good new data about your response to public performance -- that's a good thing to know about yourself. Just as you can study and practice to get "substantively" better at the instrument, you can study and practice to get "procedurally" (?) better at the performance aspect. There are plenty of things you can do to affect your reaction to nerves, especially pre-performance routines. Congrats on sticking with it. This has been fun to be a very remote bystander to. The funny thing about this is that for my megacorp job I often present to large groups of colleagues, do client technical prese...
- Mon Jan 08, 2024 9:25 am
- Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
- Topic: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
- Replies: 350
- Views: 60686
Re: Learning Violin as an adult? 7 years, new recording
I've been following this for all 7 years (yikes!), and I'm so happy you're still at it and still posting about it. You've received some good new data about your response to public performance -- that's a good thing to know about yourself. Just as you can study and practice to get "substantively" better at the instrument, you can study and practice to get "procedurally" (?) better at the performance aspect. There are plenty of things you can do to affect your reaction to nerves, especially pre-performance routines. Congrats on sticking with it. This has been fun to be a very remote bystander to. Thanks for the responses over the duration! I think there’s a BH analogy to investing to be made. I possess no special musical ...