Search found 252 matches

by SleepKing
Sat Oct 12, 2019 7:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Seiko Watch
Replies: 37
Views: 5049

Re: Seiko Watch

Saw you bought the solar, but my $0.02...

If someone simply want a nice looking watch to "keep time" get any quartz that appeals to you most and NEVER spend over $100.

If you want a "collectors watch" aka man jewelry, check out a Grand Seiko. Many aficionados put these up against the finest Swiss time pieces.

FYI i have a "Seiko Kinetic" in my collection that is near and dear to me. I get as many compliments on it (~$150 watch) as I do 'fine swiss watches'.


Just don't wear an Apple watch...lol! (j/k, those are useful too)
by SleepKing
Sat Sep 14, 2019 9:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What dish soap do you use?
Replies: 54
Views: 4337

Re: What dish soap do you use?

+1 Dawn. Bulk buy from warehouse club. Good forother uses besides dishes (ie window cleaning)
by SleepKing
Mon Aug 19, 2019 7:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Neighbor's FIOS cable running over my yard
Replies: 52
Views: 18547

Re: Neighbor's FIOS cable running over my yard

At such a low height all sorts of things could damage it, such a shame if that would happen....
by SleepKing
Thu Jul 18, 2019 4:15 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Repair Bosch Dishwasher or Buy New?
Replies: 35
Views: 7290

Re: Repair Bosch Dishwasher or Buy New?

Time to replace it my friend.If you really like (and have time) to tinker, i'm sure someone will give you guidance!
by SleepKing
Tue Jul 16, 2019 4:20 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Switching from passive to active management
Replies: 106
Views: 11407

Re: Switching from passive to active management

OP,

I agree with other posters who have suggested discussing your options with Vanguard PAS. Compare that options/cost to your other active management option/cost.
by SleepKing
Tue Jul 16, 2019 4:15 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 1 million in liquid assets or paid off mortgage by 40?
Replies: 72
Views: 9962

Re: 1 million in liquid assets or paid off mortgage by 40?

Which option would allow you to feel more secure and financially independent? Choose that one. We're leaning towards paid off mortgage and 0 debt.
by SleepKing
Sun Jun 30, 2019 11:25 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Windows: Milgard Ultra vs Marvin Infinity vs Starmark Evo (Okna 7500) vs VistaMark
Replies: 24
Views: 5022

Re: Windows: Milgard Ultra vs Marvin Infinity vs Starmark Evo (Okna 7500) vs VistaMark

Sorry for late reply. No issues with noise level that we appreciate. When people are outside we cannot hear them speaking even while very close to windows. We do not have much traffic in our area.
by SleepKing
Sun Jun 30, 2019 11:23 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Outdoor Fire Pit - Wood vs. Gas?
Replies: 53
Views: 7241

Re: Outdoor Fire Pit - Wood vs. Gas?

We have a gas fire pit and use it multiple times per week. Even toast marshmallows and they turn out great. No complaints.

We decided against wood largely due to the need to maintain a burn pile and the smell. I should say, as many other posters, we enjoy the smell of wood....but not when it is <100 ft from our home....

Good luck!
by SleepKing
Tue Jun 18, 2019 5:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Windows: Milgard Ultra vs Marvin Infinity vs Starmark Evo (Okna 7500) vs VistaMark
Replies: 24
Views: 5022

Re: Windows: Milgard Ultra vs Marvin Infinity vs Starmark Evo (Okna 7500) vs VistaMark

We've installed Oakna with a local company in stages. They have performed well and fit our style/design need fine. We are actually getting a bid to replace more with Oakna this year. Our research indicated this is as high a quality product as its competitors.

Agree with others that the installer/company who sells it support should have as much-if not more-weight than the actual product. Seems all the products you list are top of the line and would be expected to perform similarly.
by SleepKing
Tue Jun 18, 2019 5:25 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Toyota Sienna tire replacement at 12k miles
Replies: 72
Views: 7365

Re: Toyota Sienna tire replacement at 12k miles

Yes. We have sienna AWD and have replaced our run flats TWICE in the 5 years, both due to early wear. Original tires at ~15k miles! After market 'high end' run flats at ~25k. The aftermarket tires came with a 60k mile 'warranty'. Yes, they were rotated per vehicle specifications. Now keep in mind the premature wear was verified by the 'dealer' and our neighbor, who is an independent mechanic. Both gave similar opinions that all the run flats are junk and will not last near the stated warranty on the tires and probably replace between 15-20k depending on driving conditions and style. Worse, in order to file a warranty claim on the tires the manufacturer requires the tires be in the 'danger zone' of the tread. Meaning, we'd have to be driving...
by SleepKing
Tue Jun 18, 2019 5:16 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Maternity and Paternity leave policies
Replies: 56
Views: 4628

Re: Maternity and Paternity leave policies

current position
Paternity = none. you can file and take fmla if you want
Mother = 6 weeks + fmla if you want

Prior position
paternity= none official (commonly would get delivery and first few days if you asked with pay)+ fmla if you want
maternity= 6 weeks vaginal delivery, 8 weeks c-section + fmla if you want
by SleepKing
Fri Sep 28, 2018 8:27 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account
Replies: 24
Views: 4601

Re: Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account

Kenkat wrote: Thu Sep 27, 2018 8:10 pm If we die together, our two kids get to take it through probate. Not the end of the world but not my first choice either.
Exactly. Our attorney clearly stated our will/trust does provide how these funds will be dispersed, just that they would need to go through probate to achieve that objective.

We're still deciding whether to ditch Vanguard for our taxable account just for this reason.

thanks all for the discussion!

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Thu Sep 27, 2018 7:09 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account
Replies: 24
Views: 4601

Re: Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account

Thanks everyone for the information and comments. Yes, we've confirmed via Bogleheads and other venues that Vanguard does not allow a TOD or contingent beneficiary for JTWROS accounts. Thus, only option is to open multiple individual accounts if you want to designate secondary or contingent beneficiary. Not even entertaining the route of a trust account at this time.... It is unfortunate Vanguard does not allow for a contingent or TOD style beneficiary on JTWROS accounts. I mean, a major reason for all this planning is to AVOID probate in all possible, even very unlikely, scenarios for survivors. Also, the interaction with the 'rep' on the phone was not a positive experience. Perhaps its time to take a long look at Fidelity for future busin...
by SleepKing
Wed Sep 26, 2018 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account
Replies: 24
Views: 4601

Secondary beneficiary for JTWROS brokerage account

Just got off phone with Vanguard representative. I asked how to designate a secondary beneficiary on our joint brokerage account (JTWROS). The Vanguard rep PLAINLY said since it is a joint account we are UNABLE to designate a secondary beneficiary. I said, ok, what happens if my wife and I are killed by a drunk driver; i'd like to set up a secondary bene for rare but plausible cases like this. She said 'we can open a Trust account or individual account if we'd like to designate a secondary beneficiary, but that it CANNOT be done for a JTWROS brokerage account.' She also suggested I 'discuss that matter with an estate planning attorney'. LOL!!

I've never heard of this restriction before, is it true?

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Mon Sep 03, 2018 10:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wet & Forget for roof algae?
Replies: 13
Views: 2636

Re: Wet & Forget for roof algae?

Have used it ourselves for wood outdoor playset and it worked great. We had a company 'soft scrub' our roof and gutters a few years back, I assume they used this or a similar product. It worked very well and we did not have to get up on ladders or buy new sprayers to reach the roof.
by SleepKing
Thu Jun 14, 2018 10:51 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Chipmunk Repellent?
Replies: 36
Views: 4099

Re: Chipmunk Repellent?

We have used The Chipmunkinator trap. Similar concept to Havahart. Also tried the sunflower seed plank to water bucket, did not work for us.

Try eliminating any wood piles and other areas they may congregate for breeding. Difficult depending on your neighborhood.

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Wed May 30, 2018 7:06 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Router hack, have you acted?
Replies: 101
Views: 12096

Re: Router hack, have you acted?

We also updated firmware, changed passwords, rebooted. I think that is more than 95% of the USA and world have done at this point. Most people i've asked about this have no idea what is going on.
by SleepKing
Tue May 22, 2018 3:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: how do you tip on wine at a restaurant
Replies: 209
Views: 19434

Re: how do you tip on wine at a restaurant

This is a very entertaining thread!

We'll usually tip 15% on the total bill (not counting tax) and 20% for exemplary service. Never bought more than ~$100 bottle in a restaurant...I shudder thinking about the markups on alcohol...

Oddly, when ordering at the bar, I'll tip the bartender $1 per drink regardless if they pop the top, pour wine, line up some shots, or craft a complex cocktail....hmmm...
by SleepKing
Tue May 08, 2018 8:05 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Move all funds to Vanguard?
Replies: 29
Views: 5049

Re: Move all funds to Vanguard?

We moved our all our funds to Vanguard about 2 years ago from Raymond James. Our advisor was understanding and professional for the transfer. He even said he would recommend Vanguard as a good place for us to go if we hadn't already decided....we laughed and said yes Vanguard was our destination.

Tells you all you need to know there.

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sat Apr 21, 2018 2:00 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Should I continue to hold REITs?
Replies: 61
Views: 13511

Re: Should I continue to hold REITs?

I may be out of my league on this one; if so please provide additional insight. Frankly, with rising rates and with the state of commercial real estate, I'm not sure I have confidence with it in the long run. I believe you are misunderstanding the investment itself (or I could be too, lol!) Vanguard REIT is not solely tied to commercial real estate. If you own 'Vanguard REIT', this is actually an extremely diversified holding across MULTIPLE real estate sectors: Office-Corporate Industrial Medical Retail-Malls-Commercial Hotels Resorts etc..check fund prospectus if you want more info... Thus, for an investor wishing to gain broad exposure and diversification to the national (and/or international) 'real estate market', this remains a very re...
by SleepKing
Fri Apr 20, 2018 12:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Do you buy new or used cars?
Replies: 183
Views: 24708

Re: Do you buy new or used cars?

We've purchased both new and used. Recently, we have gone with new Toyotas. We did a cost analysis and felt it made more sense for us to get a new car. The 'savings' off a gently used model a couple years older was not worth it at the time. I feel it depends on what is available locally and the potential level of savings.
by SleepKing
Thu Apr 19, 2018 6:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Negotiating for a new Toyota.[my fault comparing apples and oranges]
Replies: 36
Views: 6760

Re: Negotiating for a new Toyota.

Toyotas are in demand and we've found often don't have the 'mega discounts' that you see with domestics. That's purely my opinion. Are you paying cash? That could give you negotiating power. Are you trading in? Did very plainly you ask for a loyalty discount? Don't hold back, the dealer certainly won't. We purchased a Toyota last fall found through internet info that many incentives (ie buyer cash, APR rates, etc...) are manufacturer driven. For example, if Rav4's are selling at or above projections in your region, they aren't going to offer many incentives to buy. The dealer legitimately may not have much wiggle room in pricing...and since you are mid-month and early quarter...they very well could not 'need' your sale to hit productivity n...
by SleepKing
Mon Mar 19, 2018 3:45 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 457 vs Backdoor Roth
Replies: 3
Views: 553

Re: 457 vs Backdoor Roth

Is there a reason you could not do both if you feel they are excellent options for your situation?

I stopped contributing to my 457b a few years back due to: 1) worries with institutional solvency (457b RARELY can be made available to creditors) 2) portability issues should I change jobs. I invested in taxable account via total market index funds instead. As I get closer to retirement I may do some 457b again depending on the situation.

Good luck!

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Wed Nov 22, 2017 5:34 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Car Lease Gotchas
Replies: 41
Views: 6694

Re: Car Lease Gotchas

Turning in a car at end of lease, heaven forbid breaking lease early, are both a huge GOTCHA. Essentially, you are going to get taken to school when you return the vehicle. We've had 3 leases and 2 were turned in to the leasing dealer for wholesale, 1 flipped into another lease at issuing dealer. We were under our miles significantly each time (like 10k under). Each time it was either we 'didn't have the anticipated equity/residual value' to turn it into another good lease pricing, or we were nickel and dimed on 'excess wear and tear'. Literally, they just made up damages like "right rear wheel scratch' or 'windshield chip', or something similar. I promise you, NONE of the 'damages' would be excessive if I showed you a 3 year old car w...
by SleepKing
Thu Oct 12, 2017 8:56 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: SUV options with 3 little kids
Replies: 57
Views: 7555

Re: SUV options with 3 little kids

If your oldest can safely get themselves in and out of the third row car seat, then you can consider a larger SUV like the Acura MDX or big Lexus or Tahoe, etc... personally I'd look at a Pilot or Highlander, as 3 young kids are going to wreck the interior...

Remember, while the 3rd row is on use, your cargo space is VERY limited,

If an adult has to strap and safely secure child in the third row, or you prioritize cargo space, please consider a mini van. It is simply the most practical option.

Good luck,
Sleepy
by SleepKing
Tue Oct 03, 2017 4:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is it a waste of money having your furnace checked every year?
Replies: 75
Views: 22448

Re: Is it a waste of money having your furnace checked every year?

We appear to be in the minority here, but we get ours checked prior to summer and winter. Have 2 AC and 2 gas furnace units. Each time <$100 for the service call and inspection/basic maintenance. System is almost 20 years old and some components break/need replacing frequently. I've googled and you tubed to double check the company and they appears to be honest. I buy the filters and humidifier panels online and they install them as part of the service.

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Thu Sep 28, 2017 8:36 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Are we suckers for not pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness?
Replies: 18
Views: 3379

Re: Are we suckers for not pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness?

I have a few reservations You've answered your own query First, I have a moral issue with borrowing money and not even planning to pay it back. And Second, we would likely have to file as Married Filing Separately for 10 years, which would introduce an ongoing tax cost. And Third, there is always the risk that the PSLF program could disappear in the future. And Fourth, if my fiancée eventually chooses part-time work after we have children, she might not make the 120 qualifying payments These are all very good reasons to consider NOT maxing out debt with intent of PSFL. You cannot predict the future 100%. Personally, I would not max out loans with the intent of chasing investment returns. What if your investments tank? What if your wife hat...
by SleepKing
Wed Sep 20, 2017 10:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Appealing Property Assessment and Lawyer
Replies: 3
Views: 649

Appealing Property Assessment and Lawyer

Quick Summary: We are in the process of appealing our property reassessment. During an initial phone conversation with the assessor office, DW received an initial reduction offer. However, we feel this is not enough and presented numerous comps within our township to demonstrate our argument (their re-reassessment is still tens of thousands in assessed value higher than other comparable properties in our township). While my wife is going to call back the assessor today after allowing them a few weeks to 'review our case', our question is: If the county's new assessment is still not where we feel a fair value is based on comps, does anyone have an opinion or experience on hiring legal counsel to present our case? We feel it may get us taken ...
by SleepKing
Wed Sep 20, 2017 6:39 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Are quality exterior doors worth it?
Replies: 17
Views: 3010

Re: Are quality exterior doors worth it?

I wholeheartedly agree with prior comments. Custom glass or extensive glass replacement is most costly part of door and entryway. Your post seems to be for something quite simple. Id get another few quotes for due diligence.

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sun Sep 17, 2017 1:17 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Should I contact a lawyer?
Replies: 69
Views: 5654

Re: Should I contact a lawyer?

This is interesting and I don't know the exact answer. However, I would agree with others that this likely is defined under some aspect of 'professional conduct' or 'plagiarism' via your district's educator handbook or bylaws. Even if your district, organization, or company owns everything, it is academically dishonest to pass others work as your own without implied permission or credit/citation. The penalty or recourse you have would proably fall strictly under your local organization. If your supervisors cannot help you and you really want to spend time and money finding an answer, legal inquiry or counsel via your union would seem a reasonable action.

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sat Sep 16, 2017 10:15 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Mother-In-Law dying, Wife wants to buy a Porsche
Replies: 51
Views: 7123

Re: Mother-In-Law dying, Wife wants to buy a Porsche

I would suggest that the rest of the inheritance be parked for the 6 month type time frame recommended after a loss. This. Convince her to wait 6 months for the estate to settle out and emotions to cycle prior to making any decisions on purchases. Personally, I would utilize the angle she can research the car buying during the 6 month and perhaps wait for the current models to get sold/traded in before buying one. Don't tell her NOT to get one, just buy the 6 month time wait and use that time to have financial discussions with her. Another point I'd like to make is that while it is "her" inheritance, a highly educated adult should be able to see the utility and necessity of altering this from 'mine' to 'our family's'. There are p...
by SleepKing
Fri Sep 15, 2017 7:05 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can not decide between washing machines
Replies: 47
Views: 4891

Re: Can not decide between washing machines

Two years ago I used the same process and purchased a consumer report best buy LG washer. Washer is the worst appliance I have ever owned. Two new control circuits under warranty, water overfills if you add garments ( LG's solution - we know there is an issue do not add garments), clothes occasionally have soap residue on them, and the clothes are extremely wrinkled if you use high spin. Parts for LG are not readily available when needed was appliance techs answer to 15 day wait for a new part. We have 3 year old 'max capacity' top loading washer and dryer from LG. Dryer roller (or something like that) needed replaced this year out of warranty, otherwise things have been fine. The tech did mention that even though they are a 'certified LG ...
by SleepKing
Tue Sep 05, 2017 6:39 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Renting during residency
Replies: 12
Views: 2159

Re: Renting during residency

Stay put and keep renting. Not worth the few thousands of savings compared to stress and uncertainty of a new place. Especially with board preparation looming. Do not buy. Your financial situation will change again as you begin searching for your first job.

Best
Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sun Aug 13, 2017 5:00 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Dave Ramsey spends two segments on his investing advice
Replies: 84
Views: 16158

Re: Dave Ramsey spends two segments on his investing advice

Tamalak wrote: Sun Aug 13, 2017 9:30 am It's always been my policy that if your net worth is below zero, listen to Dave Ramsey, and if it's above zero, listen to Bogleheads.
I must admit, DW and I spent much time listening to Dave and Suze Orman in our early 20s, when we had $0 in the bank, lots of student debt, etc... Honestly, not a bad place to START your financial education and get your interest stoked. Just need to mature and keep learning from there. He gets you motivated to start saving, stop spending, cut up the credit cards, live below your means, get rid of debt....advice most people actually need in a somewhat entertaining way!

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sun Jul 16, 2017 7:12 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Moving stepfather into long term care facility. Need advice.
Replies: 17
Views: 2599

Re: Moving stepfather into long term care facility. Need advice.

Mom called me today and said no way she is putting her husband into a long term facility, she can take care of him just fine, thank you. This is the second time Mom has stopped action on her husbands behalf. On the POA forms she is listed first with myself and his niece being jointly next in line. I've reached my limit and told her fine, run with it. I know that the home care charge nurse had made mention of getting the state involved if things were not to move Bob into a proper care facility. Since Mom is his POA and his spouse I guess she can cross that bridge when she gets to it. IF and only IF, I get involved again it will be only after she has formally submitted the papers surrendering her POA position. I have always said you have the...
by SleepKing
Sat Jul 15, 2017 6:51 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Road vehicle, 4 adults, one car seat, must it be a minivan?
Replies: 43
Views: 5843

Re: Road vehicle, 4 adults, one car seat, must it be a minivan?

I'm sure someone already mentioned this, RENT a larger vehicle for your long and/or big family road trips. I know many people who do this 2-3 times a year. You aren't stuck with the large vehicle long term, plus you don't get the mileage-wear-tear on your personal vehicle.

Best,
Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sun Jul 09, 2017 7:04 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: how to destroy hard disk with personal info
Replies: 99
Views: 14564

Re: how to destroy hard disk with personal info

Hammer it, drill it, pliers to scratch/bend/break disc, soak in water to start corrosion.

Agree that anyone motivated enough to get data after that...probably can get into your data another way.
by SleepKing
Fri Jun 30, 2017 11:17 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Engagement Ring Insurance
Replies: 46
Views: 6802

Re: Engagement Ring Insurance

I agree with others to not insure the ring you describe.
by SleepKing
Fri Jun 30, 2017 11:11 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a dishwasher
Replies: 54
Views: 6462

Re: Buying a dishwasher

Bosch.
Your price range is fine. Spend a little more and the quieter it will operate.

Look for capacity need, noise level and optional third rack if you need.

All appliances(except speed queen) really are disposable products now adays. If you get 5 years from entry to mid legel thats good. 8 years for upper end. This comes from appliance repair tech we had out to fix our newer (3 yras old) top of line LG refrigerator and dryer....

He recommended only getting standard sizes, since replacement frequency is higjer than in the old days. His angriest customers are ones who spent premium prices for custom fitted high end brands....that still break within that time frame...

Sleepy
by SleepKing
Thu Jun 29, 2017 10:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best cars for multiple kids
Replies: 51
Views: 6089

Re: Best cars for multiple kids

Must get a mini van for 3 car seats. Getting to the third row and securing the straps/belt is near impossible in non van vehicles. Once your oldest can strap themselves in maybe....

If you need awd the sienna. Otherwise toss up between sienna and odyssey for general use.
by SleepKing
Wed Jun 21, 2017 7:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Good camera - new baby coming
Replies: 64
Views: 9847

Re: Good camera - new baby coming

To answer your question, you absolutely need something other than the phone camera if you want to get really nice photos for display, etc... If you're happy with mediocre or worse quality photos in difficult light and fast motion environments, then its fine to stick with the phone. From my experience, we drastically underestimated the amount of pictures being taken in poor lighting situations. Professional photos look great because the lighting is spot on. Kids in the house, store, party, bright outdoors, holidays in dim lighting, etc... the iphones do ok in the light, but leave much to be desired. Same thing for DSLRs. Unless you buy a very expensive model with insane ISO capabilities, you will be disappointed. Thus, you need an external f...
by SleepKing
Sun Jun 18, 2017 3:30 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Early retirement checkup for 38 year old
Replies: 21
Views: 4918

Re: Early retirement checkup for 38 year old

Thanks for your service. It is nice that your hard work and service will pay off. Overall your situation seems positive for early retirement. Obviously, if you can make it 5 years, that seems like a great return for amount of additional service. I would have more of a emergency cushion, 15k when you live on a 210k income seems small. Would you be able to get insurance through wife's nursing job? Are you planning anything for kids college funding? Two curious questions: 1) What financial benefit would completing your bachelor's provide? Is there a tuition reduction you are eligible for? 2) What will your second career be? We seem to have met many second career police and firemen who go into landscaping, contractor work, or teaching of some s...
by SleepKing
Sat Jun 10, 2017 12:35 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Suit for [medical] residency interviews
Replies: 57
Views: 14613

Re: Suit for residency interviews

A few thoughts on your residency interview appearance needs: First, I agree with the sentiment that looking presentable DOES MATTER! You get one chance to make a first impression. If you show up in a well fitting and clean suit, tie, belt, and shoes, look your interviewer in the eyes and shake their hand while saying, "Hi, Dr. X, I'm jpa from medical school X and I'm excited about this opportunity to interview at your program" you have just made a fantastic first impression. Trust me, it matters and, surprisingly, many applicants don't do this. I've conducted interviews where poor first impressions (either inappropriate dress, poor eye contact, speaking mannerisms, etc...) doomed the candidate with an otherwise reasonable CV. Look...
by SleepKing
Tue May 16, 2017 10:45 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quality decline in off-brand alkaline batteries?
Replies: 37
Views: 8292

Re: Quality decline in off-brand alkaline batteries?

We use Amazon Basic Alkaline for all our home needs: AA, AAA, C, D. No problems or outrageous failures I've noticed.

FYI, a leading home product reporting agency review ranked the following AA Alkaline batteries:

(above hash line recommended)
- Duracell Quantum
- Rayovac Fusion
-CVS Max
- Duracell Coppertop
- Kirkland
-Rite Aid home
-Amazon Basics
-Wallgreens Basic
-----------------------------
(not recommended)
Enegizer EcoAdvanced
Enegizer MAX and powerseal
CVS regular
Dynex-best buy's brand
EcoAlkalines
by SleepKing
Sat May 06, 2017 7:05 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: How much to contribute to deferred compensation?
Replies: 9
Views: 4014

Re: How much to contribute to deferred compensation?

Before I give you our opinion, let me say we contributed to deferred compensation for a while. Stopped for a few reasons: -Simply did not trust the ability of our health system to remain solvent in unknown climate over next 20-30-40 years. You say that is minimal risk in your situation. -I was not comfortable with the payout options. As I remember, we only had a few options: take the entire distribution as a lump sum upon separation. Change the distribution date upon separation to a date within 1 year following retirement, or when we hit age 70.5. Just didn't like the inflexible non-sense of when and how i'm allowed to receive the money I earned. Sounds like you have much better options to go with. -It's a non-quaified plan, so difficult ro...
by SleepKing
Tue May 02, 2017 3:01 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Great knife for slicing limes and raw potatoes
Replies: 56
Views: 7799

Re: Great knife for slicing limes and raw potatoes

This may result in a downpour of comments, but we use CUTCO knives and really enjoy them. Although a bit biased, we have some that are almost 20 years old from when I sold it as a summer gig; they still look great and function like new when sharpened. French Chef's knife and Santoku are fantastic for your potatoes. The 4" parin would do the lime. I love the full and petite size carvers for anything from small roasts, to prime rib, to 18lb turkeys. The table knives are fantastic. Everything goes into....gasssspppp.... the dishwasher. Comes out fine. If there are any water marks/spots a towel wipe cannot remove, a little bit of Barkeeper's friend wipe down does the trick. The dishwasher use is key for our family lifestyle. We use a wood ...
by SleepKing
Tue Apr 18, 2017 6:51 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Mens Blue Jeans - What are we buying now?!
Replies: 86
Views: 13858

Re: Mens Blue Jeans - What are we buying now?!

KJV, I have problems with longer inseams and fit too. This skinny jean stuff is non-sense. I'm athletic, by no means big, and EVERY 'standard' or 'slim' fit looks like i'm wearing wrapping paper...and it's uncomfortable. I've found the following come in a range of styles and prices for tall size (ie 36L): -Eddie Bauer (wait for 30-40% off sale) -Banana republic (wait for 30-40% off sale) -Old Navy (cheaper prices and material than BR) -Alberto jeans (expensive, but fit well on tall people and a more style conscious option) best, Sleepy I will stop by Eddie Bauer next time I'm at the mall. I wonder if they carry any of the taller sizes in store? I almost always have to order the tall sizes online; rarely find the 36" pants in store. Go...
by SleepKing
Tue Apr 18, 2017 1:46 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Mens Blue Jeans - What are we buying now?!
Replies: 86
Views: 13858

Re: Mens Blue Jeans - What are we buying now?!

KJV,

I have problems with longer inseams and fit too. This skinny jean stuff is non-sense. I'm athletic, by no means big, and EVERY 'standard' or 'slim' fit looks like i'm wearing wrapping paper...and it's uncomfortable.

I've found the following come in a range of styles and prices for tall size (ie 36L):
-Eddie Bauer (wait for 30-40% off sale)
-Banana republic (wait for 30-40% off sale)
-Old Navy (cheaper prices and material than BR)
-Alberto jeans (expensive, but fit well on tall people and a more style conscious option)

best,
Sleepy
by SleepKing
Sun Apr 16, 2017 6:51 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Anyone else decided not to finish med school?
Replies: 76
Views: 32168

Re: Anyone else decided not to finish med school?

If your friend is regretting his decision, it may be a good idea to work with a life/career coach who specializes in physicians, and reevaluate. Based on personal experience on this topic of physician dissatisfaction and career detours ("friends and family"),it's important to understand that medical training is a journey unto itself--separate from medical practice. In particular, students and residents invariably go through a gauntlet of fear that taints the psyche--but not forever. Once you clear that hurdle, the opportunity for career satisfaction actually expands. For example, medical research without practice is one option. Academics. Biotech. Consulting firms such as McKinsey & Co hire newly minted MDs and see them as go...