Youve Been Reviewed

Have car, will travel... by bus.

2013-05-20T02:45:00.001-04:00

So, why am I taking the bus? We got my car back from the repair shop after having a crap ton of work done on it. It has never run better. I'm also cleared to drive now and have been zipping along the back country roads, enjoying switchback curves and generally have a fun. As always, my motto is "Have car, will travel". Yet, tomorrow I'm taking Megabus to DC instead of my car and here's why.
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Some Smoky Mountain campgrounds remain closed

2013-05-18T02:20:00.000-04:00

Did you know that some Smoky Mountain campgrounds are closed? Thanks to the sequester there are not enough funds to keep all of the park operations going. I was reminded of this when looking into camping options in the Smokies. Picnic areas near some of the campgrounds are also effected.

Three closures are:
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Planned popup camper modifications so I can camp again

2013-05-16T17:20:00.001-04:00

Here is a video of our planned popup camper modifications. Mobility issues caused by foot drop are making life more difficult in surprising ways. The modifications will not make any travel trailer meet ADA requirements. Instead, it will make the popup camper more usable for my needs.

Getting into the travel trailer is a challenge. I really couldn't come up with a good way to do that. Anything that we do must be able to fit inside when folded. That ruled out stairs with a railing or a wide step. After a lot of consideration, I think that the step stool and walker combination is our best bet. It makes the campsite look unkempt but gets the job done. Here's the video of the planned popup camper modifications.

Walkways are tiny in any popup camper so,
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Flemings Restaurant in Knoxville announces spring menu options

2013-05-14T18:34:00.002-04:00

Fleming's in Knoxville announces their new spring menu. The two course prix fixe menu Taste the Season is available until May 31, 2013. Known for using fresh ingredients, the culinary creations on the Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar, Taste the Season in Knoxville includes:

Oven roasted baby beets and and Chèvre whipped salad
Cedar, orange and tea-smoked Filet Mignon with a lemon-garlic butter, spring mushroom and toasted pine nut ragout
Prosciutto wrapped green beans

The Taste of the Season meal is $40.95.

These add-ons are designed to compliment the meal.
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Tarr Chevrolet opens a new expanded facility

2013-05-11T11:38:00.000-04:00

An iconic Jefferson City landmark is announcing the grand opening of it's new expanded facilities. Tarr Chevrolet has served the car buying community since 1952. It and has been on Broadway Boulevard since the 1970's and has just undergone a major building change.


Rep.Jeremy Faison, Scott Shafer, State Rep Andrew Farmer

According to Scott Shafer, owner and dealer principal of Tarr Chevrolet. “It’s a totally different building that has been transformed with a focus on creating the best customer experience, holding true to our motto of ‘Treatin’ People Right’.

One of my best car buying experiences was at Tarr Chevrolet. Here's how it went down.
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Wrestling with how to adapt our pop-up camper

2013-05-07T22:26:00.000-04:00

There are all kinds of ways to make the outside of your home look better. As my grandmother grew older, it became apparent that a ramp would make it easier for her to get in and out of the front door. The project sounded pretty straightforward but reality very different.

Instead of a simple ramp, she wanted to be able to get some fresh air while still being able to maneuver. We checked into several different plans before she decided that an elevated deck would fit the bill. A raised platform near the front door was large enough for a porch swing. It was a good choice for her but can something similar be done with our pop-up camper?
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My embarrassing moment in Riceville...Kerplunk!

2013-05-06T16:40:00.002-04:00

I had a great time at the Jones Chapel Ladies Conference on Saturday. We worshiped, prayed, sang, laughed and worshiped some more. Nothing indicated that it would be one of the most embarrassing moments of my life. The church rocked when the ladies sang "I'll fly away" and the dance team did an excellent job. It was a good day to be in Riceville, Tennessee.

If you were at the conference (or live in the Riceville area) you may have heard about my embarrassing moment. If not, then let me publicly clear it up for you.

Most of you know that I'm still struggling with an icky case of foot drop. Emergency surgery in January helped tremendously but the health challenge continues to me me wobbly sometimes. The ladies conference was one of those times.

The rampant tingly-numb feeling went down my leg right and then next thing I knew, I went down. Hitting the floor with me was my nearby stool, microphone, Bible and music stand. Talking about ending with a bang! When my daughter heard about it, her response was "Mom, only you have that kind of talent." Should I have told her that it's hereditary?

Budget summer vacations for college students

2013-04-29T23:05:00.000-04:00

The two facts about college students are that they're always broke and they need a break after the semester. These budget summer vacations for college studying will have you recharging your batteries in no time. Each of the ideas is designed to be easy on the budget. Share your ideas by singing out in the comments below.

Stay with a friend
Who better to chill out with than your best friend? Watch videos, have a DIY spa party or go fishing. Laugh and relax. Spend part of the week at your house and the other part at your friend's house. The more the merrier so negotiate about inviting friends. This is one of the budget summer vacations for college students that's guaranteed to be a blast.

Pitch in for a hotel room - my favorite
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Things to do in Oahu, Hawaii

2013-04-29T01:05:00.000-04:00

It's no secret that Oahu, Hawaii is one of the top vacation destinations in the U.S. Some of the more popular activities include visiting the Battleship Missouri Memorial and the U.S.S. Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and the beach area around the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort Spa. There are a few things to do in Oahu that travelers may miss. Here are a few of them.

Natural sites

Leahi Diamond Head State Monument
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Belk to offer free mammograms in the greater Knoxville area

2013-04-25T00:44:00.001-04:00

Here's a Knoxville event that every woman should consider attending. Belk will offer free mammograms in Knoxville beginning Tuesday, April 30 - May 11, 2013. The events will be held at the West Town Mall and at the Turkey Creek Location as well as other Belk locations in the greater Knoxville area.

The free mammograms are provided by BelkGives Go Mobile Mammography Center. Described as a "screening center on wheels"
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How to solve a hotel billing problem

2013-04-22T17:46:00.001-04:00

Lately, several people have asked me how to solve hotel billing problems. I have successfully dealt with this in the past and hope it does not happen again. Most of the time vacations go well. The check-out slip slides under the door just after midnight. In the morning the hotel guest picks up the check-out sheet and tucks into the laptop bag.

That's most of the time. The reality is that anyone who travels frequently will face a billing issue. It may be as simple as clearing up a misunderstanding about incentives or discounts. If so, then the situation is usually fixed easily. If it's a more complicated matter, then these tips should help.

Be nice
Hotel desk clerks are just like everyone else in that they are often overworked and underpaid. It may be tempting to take your frustrations out on them but don't. Resolving the billing problem swiftly will often require some assistance from the desk clerk.

Prevention is the first step toward resolution.
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Knoxville EarthFest 2013 in review

2013-04-20T20:18:00.000-04:00

Here are a few photos from the Knox Earth Fest this year. It was a good event. The cool air and sunshine made for ideal festival conditions. I could be wrong but there seemed to be more vendors and demonstrations than ever. That's a good thing for Knoxville and for the environment.

Earth Fest hits the ball out of the park by combining environmental education with providing solutions.
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Knoxville Rossini Festival goes international for second year

2013-04-19T23:34:00.002-04:00

The Knoxville Rossini Festival has become an international festival again in 2013. What was once the only Italian street fair in Knoxville now has vendors representing several countries. Make no mistake, there is still an element of the festivals early roots as an Italian street fair. The Rossini Festival and International Street Festival still pays homage to the famous musician through the performance of Rossini's Cinderella.

In the past, the organization took slack from some unhappy visitors over the way food sales were handled. Grabbing something to eat means
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How to find Walt Disney World deals and packages

2013-04-19T00:05:00.001-04:00

Just because Walt Disney World is the most magical place on earth doesn't mean that it has to be the most expensive. There are ways to whittle down the cost that can help make it more affordable. One of the best ways to do that is to find Walt Disney World deals and packages.

Walt Disney World Pop Century

It's no secret that the best hotels rates can be found during off-season travel. This generally means traveling when the kids are supposed to be in school and avoiding holidays. That can be pretty unrealistic for most families. That makes finding Walt Disney World deals important for most families. Don't worry. The deals are out there.

Walt Disney World has its own vacation club. Members purchase points to use toward future vacations but sometimes aren't able to use them. These are sometimes sold through Disney Vacation Club resellers at a fraction of the original cost. Buyers should always be careful to buy points through reputable outlets. Online searches and checking with the BBB before purchasing can be helpful.

Another place to check for Walt Disney World deals and packages is at the park website. My husband and I have been able to get a free dining plan and discounts directly through Disney. Copy and paste this link into your browser to get to to the special offers page. http://bit.ly/XUkD2B

Check discount sites like Priceline or Expedia for Walt Disney World deals. They sometimes have packages or hotel discounts that can save you money.

Don't assume that it's cheaper to say off the property. I've found Disney Resorts to be competitively priced. Off property locations can have hidden costs in terms of transportation and parking. However; that's not always the case. A hotel can be worth considering if it has a free shuttle or free breakfast.

I love it when companies like Walt Disney World offer deals to our military. Retired and active military members can purchase a 4-day ticket with park hopper option for $156 each (plus tax) in 2013. Tickets must be purchased at by a member of the military or a spouse and can only be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets. Compare that to the cost of a non-discount ticket and this is one of the Walt Disney World deals that you can really appreciate. http://bit.ly/13lx6uw

Before you head to the parks, there is another article that you should read. How to survive Walt Disney World with whiny teens can help families and adults have a better time at the parks.

Knox EarthFest features green cars at clean fuel vehicle showcase

2013-04-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

Lots of people will be heading to Pellissippi State this weekend. Saturday, April 20, marks the return of Knox EarthFest for 2013. The family-friendly, pet-friendly event promotes green living in the Knoxville area. This year will feature a clean vehicle showcase and demonstrations and displays that are "Rooted in Sustainability". Knox Earth Fest is fun, free and a good reason to be outdoors.

Located near the front of the event, the Clean Vehicle Showcase puts green cars in the spotlight. A clean vehicle is one that uses an alternative fuel source. These green cars are easier on the environment than traditional vehicles. Knox EarthFest is an ideal place to show them off.

Cars that run on biodiesel, SUVs that run on natural gas and electric cars that plug-in are some that you might find on display. Last year, Hubby and I peeked at hybrid vehicle and a flex-fuel car that was on display. They were both impressive in their own right but looked smaller than we need.

We'll take another look at green cars at the Knoxville EarthFest event this year. I can get a better feel for the cars when they're off of the lot and take advantage of other conversations that transpire around the vehicles.

We experienced a fascinating kaleidoscope of conversations as people debated with each other about which vehicle was best for the environment and why. I particularly enjoyed an exchange between someone championing biodiesel as an alternative fuel and another who advocated for switching cars over to natural gas.

Everything from flex fuel cars to biodiesel for trucks and SUVs were debated. The only common ground they shared is that clean fuel vehicles are going to be the only vehicles in the future.

Clean fuel vehicles and are at the forefront of Knox EarthFest. Look for the green cars, trucks and SUVs, in front of the visitor building. It's worth stopping and looking at every car. I really felt like I was looking at the future.

When you come to EarthFest, don't forget to bring plastic bags and old light bulbs. They can be traded for a reusable tote and the old bulb can be exchanged for a new one. I wrote about it on Recycle plastic bags; light bulbs at EarthFest Knoxville about a previous EarthFest.

The exchange booths and education displays are set-up under the large tents. Look for them just beyond the clean fuel vehicle showcase that holds the green cars, trucks and SUVs.

Camping with electricity is my favorite way to camp

2013-04-15T08:00:00.000-04:00

One of the first questions that I get from new campers is about camping with electricity. Pitching a tent on the open ground and communing with nature is what most people think camping is all about. Much of the time, that mental picture is true. However; lots of people enjoy basic comforts and will only rent sites that offer electricity (also called electrical hook-ups).

Sound surprising? Think again.

Medical necessity is one reason why people choose to rent sites that have electricity. I am not alone in dealing with asthma. The CDC numbers indicate that 1:12 people nationwide have the disease. Camping is one of my favorite activities but it can also be difficult. Changes in temperature or elevation can sent my lungs into a coughing frenzy that requires neutralizer treatments to control. Electricity is required to run the machine.

Many people can only rough it up to a point. Then we begin to miss heaters or refrigerators. Heaven forbid that our netbook or smart phone needs to be charged in the campground!

The different types of electrical hook-ups that are offered at campgrounds gets technical in a hurry. This link on Understanding RV Electricty opens to a comprehensive (albeit technical) tutorial about campsite electricity. I'll give you a very brief rundown below.

First, a look at why you might want to go camping with electricity anyway.

Because you want to
Most of us have a phone and computer that we want to keep charged. Campers may want to listen to the big game on a radio. There are dozens of reasons for camping with electricity. The best reason may be because you want to.

Medical necessity
Not all tent or RV sites are created the same and not all have electric hook-ups. State and national parks may offer a limited number of campsites may have a small amount of electricity and are on stand-by for those who have medical needs. This amount of electricity is only enough to power a medical device or cpap but not for anything else. If you push your luck, the blown circuit breaker in the camp office will give you away every time.

A quick word.
The following is not comprehensive and is for very general information only. If you have questions about camping with electricity, check with your camp host or campground management.

Low amperage
Commercial campgrounds (not state or national parks) usually offer 30 amp electrical outlets. You need this to run a refrigerator or charge a netbook. A 30 amp outlet is usually fine for tent camping or if you are using minimal appliances. It won't work for large RVs or to run many high-drawing appliances at the same time. Bring an adapter in case you can't plug directly into the electrical box by the campsite.

Higher amperage
Commercial campgrounds almost always offer 50 amp power. Absolutely essential for big RVs, some campers who have pop-up trailers or 5th wheels need this much electricity. If you want to run the ice maker, wash clothes and use the hair dryer at the same time, then you need the higher amperage electricity at your campsite. Plan on bringing an adapter.

Want to learn more? Here are some hot tips for cool fall break camping.

Coffee houses in Knoxville that have free WIFI

2013-04-13T19:39:00.001-04:00

Are you looking for coffee houses in Knoxville that have free WI-FI? I am and it's not easy. Knoxville is blessed with a good number of them. That's reassuring news for anyone who needs to combine a caffeine kick with work.

When my cell modem is on the fritz finding a coffee house in Knoxville that has free WI-FI saves the day. It's also the answer when I (or someone with me) wants a taste of the best Colombian coffee that they can find.

Email me or leave a comment to tell me about the ones that are missing. My goal is to make this article a quick reference for others who are on the go or visiting Knoxville. You can almost never go wrong with coffee and WI-FI. So, let's work together to create the best list that we can. Here's what I have so far.
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Firehouse Subs free gift card giveaway

2013-04-13T17:56:00.000-04:00

If you saw yesterday's article, then you already know about the smashing Bearden Firehouse Subs blogger event that I attended. What you don't know is that we were given a few gift cards that we can use in other ways.

So, here's what we're going to do. I'm dividing them up into a couple of different giveaways. We'll use one $10 card today. I'm donating a few for a fundraiser that our church is having local fire department. This gives my blog readers and anyone who is local an opportunity to get one of the gift cards.

But back to the giveaway for today. Participating is easy-peasy. All you have to do is
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Bearden Firehouse Subs connects good food and new friends

2013-04-12T16:51:00.000-04:00

My evening at the Bearden Firehouse Subs blogger event was unforgettable. Meeting Firefighters who turn into entrepreneurs and then become philanthropists are rare. The combination makes Firehouse Subs co-founders Chris and Robin Sorensen "hero's hero" kind of guys.

John, Robin Sorensen, Gayle

The Bearden Firehouse Subs blogger event was a chance to meet Robin Sorensen and find out more about the company. Some of the top bloggers from the Knoxville area were invited. We all walked away with a richer appreciation for the company and sampled some mean sandwiches.

It's no secret that I've been hooked on Firehouse Subs since my first taste of the Hook and Ladder. The two-fisted job is a steamed sandwich that's piled high with Virginia honey ham, turkey and melted Monterey Jack cheese. Add lettuce, tomatoes, a dash of deli mustard and a dab of mayonnaise and I'm a happy customer. Toss that cool crisp pickle on the side and I'm even happier.

The Bearden Fireshouse Subs blogger event highlighted four sandwich choices. The first that we were served was the Hook and Ladder sandwich. It was quickly followed by the Italian Sub, NY Steamer and Beef and Cheddar brisket. Here's why my lunch decision just got harder.
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Top travel options for college students

2013-04-09T17:05:00.000-04:00

Spring is the time of year when student travel groups are making summer plans. Never before have college travel options for students included such a broad expanse of opportunities. Only a few years ago, students who went to backpacking through Europe were the norm. Now, there is literally a world of options.

The mix usually breaks down into three general types of student travel.

School related trips
These are usually put together through EF Smithsonian Student Travel, or other student travel company. This is one of the travel options for college students that typically involve course credit. Outside course work may have to be completed. Check with student services or with your favorite professor. ACIS and STA travel
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How to organize a festival

2013-04-08T23:18:00.001-04:00

Festivals are a fun way to bring neighbors together or raise funds for charity. The question is how to organize a festival so that it will be rewarding for everyone involved. Organizing a small festival for a nonprofit or church requires many of the same steps that a large event requires.

I've found that when you look at how to organize a festival, the main difference is in the scale of the event and the number of volunteers that are needed. These steps will help you begin planning.

1. Recruitment
Recruit volunteers now. Churches may have a board or council in place. If not, then you will need to develop a team from scratch.

2. Structure
Deciding the structure informs the rest of your decisions. Will it be large or small, have a parade or offer a wine tasting? Where will it be? Who will do the advertising? Can hotels or other organizations help?

3. Personal needs
Remember personal needs when looking at how to organize a festival. If you hold a large event, then you may need portable toilets in Louisville Colorado or rent them from a similar local company.
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The Dogwood Arts Festival returns in 2013

2013-04-08T19:48:00.000-04:00

The Dogwood Arts Festival has been a Knoxville tradition for more than 50 years. What began as a few Dogwood Trails soon gave rise to an month-long event that is unlike any other in East Tennessee. Famous names who have appeared at the Dogwood Arts Festival have included Bob Hope and Elvis Presley.

The big names helped draw crowds who appreciate the beauty of the city. Now over a quarter-million visitors flock to Knoxville for the month-long festival. Don't worry about the crowds though. There is plenty of room for you to enjoy Dogwood Arts Festival events like...

Why you need an Alaska Milepost travel book

2013-04-07T20:08:00.000-04:00

If you are driving to or in Alaska, then you need the Alaska Milepost travel book. I can't make it any plainer than that. Often referred to as the "Bible of North Country Travel", Milepost covers Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Alberta Northwest Territories and Alaska. If you are driving or flying to Alaska and renting an RV, you will need Milepost.

The almost 800 page book is your key to finding gas stations, restaurants and historic data on points of interest. It's an interesting read. Most importantly to me, Milepost saved my hide on the first night that we couldn't find lodging.
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Megabus cancels Knoxville to Memphis service

2013-04-06T19:02:00.001-04:00

If you want to get to Memphis from Knoxville, your best bet may be to fly or drive. Megabus, a low cost express bus carrier has eliminated the route from Knoxville to Memphis via Nashville. The bus line appeals to riders because of fares as low as $1, free WI-FI and on-board bathrooms. It is popular among college students, middle aged women and budget travelers.

The Nashville City Paper reports that Megabus service to Memphis was canceled because of a lack of ridership. As of this writing, Knoxville riders can still travel to :
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Laura Clay marker at White Hall State Historic Site in Kentucky

2013-04-05T23:53:00.003-04:00

The Laura Clay historic marker photographed here, commemorates her devotion to women's rights. As the daughter of Russia Ambassador Cassius M. Clay, Laura grew up with a bird's-eye view of politics in action. She watched her father found the Republican Party and saw its impact on the political arena. Later, she would be the first woman to be nominated to run for president by a major political party.

There is no doubt that Laura was impacted by her upbringing. Born in 1849, she worked throughout her life to further the cause of women's rights. Her accomplishments included coeducation property and joint guardianship rights for women in Kentucky.

The Laura Clay historic marker at White Hall State Historic Site outlines her life of service.
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Links for 2012-02-03 [Digg]

2012-02-04T00:00:00-08:00

Avg vs. Avira Antivirus: Review & Coupon Code
Avg anitivirus and avira both are good demanded antivirus now but which one is better is good to know and also about viruses and antivirus, today its very important to find good antivirus for computer protection and good software for that. Today virus became a big evils for computer.

Links for 2011-04-22 [Digg]

2011-04-23T00:00:00-07:00

Warriors Path State Parks offers year round fishing, hiking and fun - Nashville Family Travel | Examiner.com
One popular Knoxville day trip is a visit to Warriors Path State Park in Kingsport, Tennessee. It is named for a trail that served as a trading and war route by
My getting out of debt journey: Our get out of debt plan is tested by huge car repair bill.
One family's struggle to get out of debt didn't end with a huge car repair bill.
Georgia nuclear reactor shuts down; investigation underway - CNN.com
A nuclear reactor at Georgia's Vogtle Electric Generating Plant has been taken off line indefinitely until investigators determine the cause of an automatic shutdown earlier this week, according to a statement released Friday by Southern Company, which supplies power to much of the state.

Links for 2011-04-17 [Digg]

2011-04-18T00:00:00-07:00

Hubbell Lighting Review
In the lighting industry, Hubbell Lighting is a popular brand in supplying wonderful products for both residential and commercial clients. This brand has a wide range of products to present in the housing market such as track lighting arrangements.

Links for 2011-04-16 [Digg]

2011-04-17T00:00:00-07:00

Travel Montana: Destination St. Ignatius
Travel to St. Ignatius, Montana for a memorable family vacation. Saint Ignatius, Montana is a wonderful destination.

Links for 2011-04-15 [Digg]

2011-04-16T00:00:00-07:00

Road Trip Tips for School Age Children
These road trip tips for school age children help make travel fun. Many parents consider vacations with school age children to be the golden age of family travel.
National Scenic Byways Are the Best Road Trips in the Southern U.S. - Associated Content from Yahoo! - associatedcontent.com
National Scenic Byways are the best road trips in the south. Both Skyline Drive and the Cherohala Skyway offers sweeping curves and stunning vistas from high atop mountain peaks. Road trip memories of these National Scenic Byways will last a lifetime.
See Red Clay on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail - Nashville Family Travel | Examiner.com
Visitors can see Red Clay on the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. The trail itself takes travelers from Tennessee into Oklahoma and through other states.
Travel on the new Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail - Nashville Family Travel | Examiner.com
The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail tells the history of the area’s earliest days since before the State of Tennessee was chartered. The Patriot Mi

Links for 2011-04-08 [Digg]

2011-04-09T00:00:00-07:00

Basic Skydiving Gears To Have
Skydiving is a recreational sport that demands the jumper to jump from a high altitude or from a plane. Hence, on the jumper’s free fall, he trusts on the equipment and presence of mind for his survival and safety.
My getting out of debt journey
This blog is about a family's struggle to get out of debt (or significantly reduce it). It's nice to read about an average family that's doing this.

Links for 2011-04-07 [Digg]

2011-04-08T00:00:00-07:00

How to Drive in Heavy Traffic
When driving in heavy traffic there are things you can do to keep safe and more calm.