Search found 73 matches

by Toadandfriends
Tue May 11, 2021 9:52 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Moving with 2 cats
Replies: 59
Views: 5635

Re: Moving with 2 cats

I use one of these (or very similar, I bought mine many years ago now). https://sturdiproducts.com/collections/pop-up-kennels/products/pop-up-kennel-small-double Works great and very compact storage when not in use. I leave the middle down and put a comfy bed on one side and a little litter box on the opposite end. I put two cats in it. Just make sure all the possible openings are zipped shut :) There are places for two seatbelts to hold it in place. Works great to drive cross country with 2 cats. I can just squeeze in the back seat with carrier to offer food/water and take one cat out one at a time (to put in a small carrier) to transport to and from car. I've driven cross country many, many times this way. I strongly agree with the blanke...
by Toadandfriends
Wed Nov 25, 2020 6:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Bogleheads, thank you for taking the time to share so much detailed info. I am learning a lot! I appreciate everyone's generosity. Just to clarify, I'm a classical musician. When I am working on a 'true' recording project I hire an audio engineer/professional equipment/and use a hall or recording studio/professional editing. My main goal in the instructional videos is to communicate and demonstrate elementary and intermediate concepts clearly. My material is primarily geared towards music educators and future music educators. My actual 'playing' and sound aren't nearly important as you might think :) Better audio would be nice, and I appreciate the excellent advice regarding an external mic. I do own a Zoom H2n recorder, and it looks like I...
by Toadandfriends
Wed Nov 25, 2020 12:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Thank you everyone for all the great practical advice and info. This is all very helpful! :sharebeer
by Toadandfriends
Wed Nov 25, 2020 6:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vitamix Worth It?
Replies: 167
Views: 26258

Re: Vitamix Worth It?

I am on my second Vitamix. My first vitamix was a college present and it lasted 19 years. When it died Vitamix gave me $100 for it to put towards a new vitamix. They paid shipping both ways. My new vitamix was on sale and cost (with the $100) $250. If it ever dies I'll send it to them and receive $100 towards a new vitamix :D
I use mine every day for green smoothies with raw ginger. Fantastic device that works really, really well.
by Toadandfriends
Tue Nov 24, 2020 7:50 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Thanks so much for the additional responses. Lots of interesting feedback. I haven't thought about a Macbook pro bc of the higher price. I looked it up -- I didn't realize the speakers/mics were so much better. That is actually very tempting. I'd like to create more informal instructional content while demonstrating on/playing my instrument. The Macbook pro might facilitate that. However, I could only afford one of the lower end models. My job provides me with a desktop computer. (It is a state institution - no funding for things like laptops.) I currently use my iPad for making short instructional videos. Otherwise - I mostly use my computer for email, PDF and Word docs, and Excel files. I depend on Google drive for file storage (I am just...
by Toadandfriends
Tue Nov 24, 2020 1:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Thank you for all the info and thoughts. In the past I have used the same computer for about 6 years before upgrading, so I will think seriously about the 16GB ram. It sounds like I'd probably be fine with the 8GB, but I could purchase the upgrades for $1400 incl taxes with the education pricing. It is more than I'd like to spend, but over 6 years it isn't a huge price difference. I'll sleep on it:)
by Toadandfriends
Tue Nov 24, 2020 11:24 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Thank you everyone! Much appreciated.
by Toadandfriends
Tue Nov 24, 2020 10:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Re: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Thank you for your responses. These are primarily short informal instructional videos for my students. I have been using my iPad or the built in camera on my work desktop computer.
I don't know that I need the extra storage, but I am wondering if I should pay extra to get the 8 core GPU. Several online reviewers recommended that upgrade but didn't really explain what I would gain.

Or, if the extra storage would help me out with the lower 8GB ram that would be great. However, if 16GB ram would help the laptop last longer that would be a worthwhile investment. What exactly do I gain with the 16GB ram?
Thank you!!
by Toadandfriends
Tue Nov 24, 2020 10:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Macbook Air - which specs should I get?
Replies: 64
Views: 5181

Macbook Air - which specs should I get?

Hi,
Could I get some savvy Boglehead advice?
After reading and watching a lot of video reviews of the new Macbook Air I'm still not sure which specs are worth paying for given my needs. I'm not tech savvy and would prefer to spend around $1000. On the otherhand, I hope to use this machine at least 5 years (hopefully longer), so I don't want to be cheap now only to regret it later. I need a laptop badly. My use: online teaching platforms, making/storing short videos (some with music), document and file use/storage, and Zoom. I have had to use a Windows desktop for the past year and a half and still really hate it, so really want to go back to Mac. Any advice for me?
Thank you!
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Sat Sep 26, 2020 11:13 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Gazillionth mortgage pay off question
Replies: 67
Views: 6676

Re: Gazillionth mortgage pay off question

OP,
Check out this podcast episode, you might enjoy these thought experiments:
What is your ROR on Home Equity? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbUXLRLdndkhe
"The more equity you have in your home, the safer you have made your home for the bank."
"When the worst things happen, do you want to be the one that is more secure, or more exposed?"
This episode argues that "the more leveraged home is the one that is safer."
Cheers,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Thu Sep 24, 2020 8:49 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: OLD papers [How do I dispose of old papers?]
Replies: 53
Views: 4812

Re: OLD papers [How do I dispose of old papers?]

I just disposed of 20lbs at Staples. Papers go in a locked box and then a service picks it up and shreds it. They charge by the pound. They gave my five pounds free when I signed up for a Staples rewards card. (not credit card).
Great feeling! Go for it.
Best,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Sun Sep 20, 2020 12:38 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Help w/simple taxable account investment choices
Replies: 4
Views: 441

Re: Help w/simple taxable account investment choices

Thanks so much! That is a a great help.
by Toadandfriends
Sun Sep 20, 2020 11:13 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Help w/simple taxable account investment choices
Replies: 4
Views: 441

Help w/simple taxable account investment choices

Hi, I have access to multiple tax deferred retirement accounts and have little experience with taxable investment accounts. However, a family member has asked for help setting up a taxable brokerage account at Fidelity. (She lost her job with access to a tax deferred retirement account and already has a Roth) Ideally this account could be set up and then 'forgotten' a little bit. Automatic withdrawals from a checking account would be great. It would also be nice not to have to make monthly or bi-monthly purchases. Can this be set up automatically? My inclination would be to suggest the Fidelity Zero Total Market Index Fund and the Fidelity Total International Index fund. (Not zero for international since it doesn't include as many stocks as...
by Toadandfriends
Sat Sep 05, 2020 7:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Reducing road noise that reaches back side of house
Replies: 43
Views: 4473

Re: Reducing road noise that reaches back side of house

I've owned this great little sound machine for several years:
Adaptive Sound Technologies LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Sound Machine with 20 Unique Non-Looping Fan and White Noise Sounds and Sleep Timer

You choose a sound that hides the annoying noises. It is very small which I really appreciate. I bought it after reading a review on Wirecutter, looks like they still like it: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/revi ... e-machine/
Good luck!
by Toadandfriends
Sat Aug 01, 2020 10:25 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Dr. Wade Pfau is my guest on the "Bogleheads on Investing" podcast!
Replies: 279
Views: 22462

Re: Dr. Wade Pfau is my guest on the "Bogleheads on Investing" podcast!

I thought this was another excellent podcast. Replacing bonds with a SPIA is an interesting option. I always enjoy listening to Bogleheads on Investing and appreciate the diverse guests.
by Toadandfriends
Sun Jun 21, 2020 8:25 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Feminine Beauty Products - best bang for your buck?
Replies: 36
Views: 4954

Re: Feminine Beauty Products - best bang for your buck?

I second a few of the suggestions above: 1) Cleanser- I tend to use the generic versions of Cetaphil or Cera Ve gentle skin cleansers from Walmart or Target. Find something mild and fragrance free to avoid skin irritation. I second the recommendation to check out Differin gel for acne-- it became available OTC fairly recently. You can get it at Walmart/Target etc. It is a prescription strength treatment for acne. 2) I'd avoid a physically abrasive scrub and try Paula's Choice AHA and/or BHA exfoliants. You could alternate if your skin tolerates it well or just go with BHA. They will help with both wrinkles and acne scars. BHA is best for acne - if your skin can tolerate it, the Paula Choice 4% gel version lasts a long time and I haven't fou...
by Toadandfriends
Mon Jun 08, 2020 6:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: US Mobile? (for cell)
Replies: 1
Views: 222

US Mobile? (for cell)

Hi,
I am thinking about switching from Total Wireless to US Mobile. My cell use is limited so I would save money using US Mobile's pay as you go approach. I need the Verizon network. Anybody had experience with both Total Wireless and US Mobile and able to compare the two?
Thank you!
by Toadandfriends
Thu Mar 26, 2020 9:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: My treadmill broke. Now what?
Replies: 36
Views: 2804

Re: My treadmill broke. Now what?

I also find exercising deadly boring and I like exercising in my house. I recommend trying the streaming program Daily Burn for a month free and check out their 365 program. Since there is a new workout every day it isn't boring. They also have five, 10, and 20 minute workouts (cardio, core etc) that you can add on if you want more. It is mostly body weight (which helps avoid injury) but you can also add light weights to the workouts. Since their trainers include core/strength/cardio I get a much better overall workout then with cardio alone, and I do not have the willpower to workout on my own without someone telling me what to do :wink: All the core and stability work is so helpful for back issues.
Best to you.
by Toadandfriends
Wed Mar 25, 2020 9:35 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Why does anyone invest in international funds?
Replies: 306
Views: 24869

Re: Why does anyone invest in international funds?

What a great question!!! Thank you for asking. I invest in international funds bc when I read the US news I can't tell...is this from The Onion or is this for real???? 50% US 50% Intl
by Toadandfriends
Mon Mar 23, 2020 1:50 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Dumping small value?
Replies: 107
Views: 10781

Re: Dumping small value?

These are scary times. My accounts are being decimated. But no, I'm not dumping my small value. I'm buying- US large cap, US lg cap value, Intl lg. cap, Us small cap, US small cap value, and US reits and emerging markets. I'll buy at the beginning of each month through my employer plans. Just like always.
Best to you.
by Toadandfriends
Tue Mar 17, 2020 8:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to get Toilet Paper ? seriously.
Replies: 684
Views: 67454

Re: How to get Toilet Paper ? seriously.

Try going later at night. My Walmart was re-stocking (with a limited supply) last night around 9:30 pm...maybe chat with the employees and find out what time they usually re-stock.
Good luck :)
by Toadandfriends
Wed Feb 26, 2020 11:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How Do you Exercise Indoors?
Replies: 127
Views: 12519

Re: How Do you Exercise Indoors?

You might want to consider not getting a machine! I have had an annual subscription to Daily Burn for several years. I love the 365 workouts (new 30 minute workout every day) but I also use the 5 and 10 minute workouts and the yoga classes. It is very inexpensive since I use it 5-6 days a week! I love the variety - flexibility, mobility, balance, strength, cardio and core. You probably want an exercise mat and a couple of weights but that is all you really need. I'm in great shape now! Highly recommend if you like variety and want the simplicity of working out at home. (I take it with me on my Ipad when I travel but use my roku at home.) I pay more to have access to their entire library though I've always been able to purchase at a sale pri...
by Toadandfriends
Sun Nov 24, 2019 1:23 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: All in one loans for home purchase?
Replies: 1
Views: 404

All in one loans for home purchase?

Hi Bogleheads,
I recently listened to this podcast about all in one loans:
https://youstaywealthy.com/saving-for-a-home/
And it links to a simulator here: https://aioloan.net/
I can't find much information and would like to learn more about the pros and cons, fees, etc. Anyone have this type of mortgage? Anyone know where I can find some detailed info? Google isn't turning up much for me...
Is it not turning up on Bogleheads because it is a bad idea... :?
Thank you!
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Sat Sep 28, 2019 2:56 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions
Replies: 7
Views: 1092

Re: trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions

Thank you for all this detailed information - so helpful!! Yes, a non reportable TtoT transfer is for IRAs only. What you need to do is a direct rollover. You are moving funds from 457b or qualified plans to an IRA. These are not TtoT transfers (even when physically accomplished as such), but reported as direct rollovers. A direct rollover is a two part process - distribution and rollover. You get a G or H coded 1099R for direct rollovers which you must report on your 1040. Since an IRA is only on ONE END of this transaction there is no one rollover limit for 12 months. You can do as many of these as you wish. You can also do as many 60 day rollovers from qualified plans to IRAs as you wish, but in that case you get hit with 20% mandatory w...
by Toadandfriends
Fri Sep 27, 2019 7:33 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions
Replies: 7
Views: 1092

Re: trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions

Thank you for the clarification! I appreciate it.
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Fri Sep 27, 2019 12:48 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions
Replies: 7
Views: 1092

trustee to trustee transfer or rollover questions

Hi, I have a Roth IRA at Schwab and a rollover IRA at Vanguard. I changed jobs this fall and would like to move the assets in my old 401a and 403b to my Vanguard IRA, and my old 457bRoth over to my Schwab Roth IRA. This is allowed by all my plans. After reading the Wiki I am thinking I should be able to go ahead and do this all at once without restrictions. (WIki is copied below) Is my understanding correct? I am confused about the difference between a rollover and a trustee to trustee transfer. Is a trustee to trustee transfer only for IRAs? I believe I am wanting a trustee to trustee transfer -- is that correct? Thank you much! Direct trustee-to-trustee transfers You can transfer funds in one traditional IRA from one trustee directly to a...
by Toadandfriends
Thu May 30, 2019 6:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Women, How Much Do You Pay for Haircut
Replies: 94
Views: 8282

Re: Women, How Much Do You Pay for Haircut

I used to pay a lot for haircuts. For me it turned out to be a waste of money. I have short curly hair and I want it long in front and short in back. It turns out pretty much anyone can do that just fine. My hair is curly and difficult to deal with on a daily basis but it is also forgiving when it comes to cutting. I mean it has straight parts and curly parts and that varies depending on the humidity. Anyway, I go to Great Clips now on MWF and they consistently give me a 5.99 coupon, I pay $10 w/tip and show up every 5 weeks. One of my favorite ways to save $$$.
'Cheers
by Toadandfriends
Tue May 21, 2019 9:56 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Specific earbud recommendation
Replies: 10
Views: 1370

Re: Specific earbud recommendation

I've used these the past several years. First earbuds that stayed in.
Cheers

Panasonic ErgoFit In-Ear Earbud Headphones RP-HJE120-A (Blue) Dynamic Crystal-Clear Sound, Ergonomic Comfort-Fit

https://www.cnet.com/reviews/panasonic-ergo-fit-review/
by Toadandfriends
Tue May 14, 2019 9:57 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Financial podcasts
Replies: 38
Views: 7472

Re: Financial podcasts

Sound Investing
Bogleheads on Investing
The New Retirement Podcast
The Long VIew (morningstar)
Your Money Your Wealth (podcast and tv show- these guys are funny so this is probably my favorite)
Stacking Benjamins (though anything with advertising begins to annoy me)
by Toadandfriends
Fri Feb 01, 2019 8:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Letting Dog out everyday for lunch... the roundtrip drive is killing me.. ideas?
Replies: 182
Views: 24697

Re: Letting Dog out everyday for lunch... the roundtrip drive is killing me.. ideas?

I love having a pet sitter I can text on short notice. You clearly love your dog - I'd hire a professional pet sitter/business. My pet sitter keeps a copy of my house keys. She drives a car with pet sitting info on it and wears t-shirts (w/pet sitter info on it!) to the house so the neighbors don't call the police. You can sign papers giving them permission to take your pet to the vet if needed. I have used them to drop my cat off at the vet bc I couldn't miss work. It is really nice to have pet care back up. Best of all, you will be able to go out of town for a weekend sans pet- just send a text message :)
Get your life back and take care of your dog.
Cheers :beer
by Toadandfriends
Tue Jan 29, 2019 9:38 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Use bonus to pay down mortgage or invest?
Replies: 28
Views: 2972

Re: Use bonus to pay down mortgage or invest?

I enjoyed this podcast:Sound Financial Bites: Basics of Debt, Part 2: Dealing with Mortgages.
http://soundfinancialbites.libsyn.com/1 ... -mortgages
They make many points. Overall they suggest that the safest route (and most flexible) is not paying extra towards the mortgage until you can write a check for the total amount.
In case of financial disaster -they made one point I hadn't heard before about foreclosure. They discuss 2008 and how additional equity in your home actually increased the likelihood of foreclosure.
Best,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Wed Nov 28, 2018 9:10 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Warm Sleepwear
Replies: 21
Views: 3149

Re: Warm Sleepwear

silk long underwear is really nice. these are less expensive and I have loved wearing the tops under my pjs, sweaters, etc:
https://www.landsend.com/products/women ... ku_0=::F6H

an electric blanket or throw is really nice to heat the bed if she doesn't have one.
good luck
by Toadandfriends
Sat Nov 17, 2018 11:07 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Water-Sewer line insurance
Replies: 33
Views: 2890

Re: Water-Sewer line insurance

Hi,
I am interested in this as well. I don't think this type of coverage can be called insurance. It is a protection plan, correct? I am wondering if the distinction matters.
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Wed Oct 24, 2018 11:00 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: fee only adviser
Replies: 3
Views: 881

Re: fee only adviser

Hi,
you could try
https://www.garrettplanningnetwork.com/

Best wishes
by Toadandfriends
Wed Aug 29, 2018 12:22 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How do you save money on groceries?
Replies: 157
Views: 14312

Re: How do you save money on groceries?

I keep working on this (for me seems to be a learning process with ups and downs ) My criteria are: cheap, healthy, relatively easy with few inexpensive ingredients, tasty. Most of my cost saving is in the meal planning. Currently I'm exploring recipes from Eat well on $4/Day Good and Cheap by Leanne Brown, 5 spices 50 dishes (Indian food! so yummy so far) and Simple Suppers (Moosewood Restaurant). My Overdrive has a surprising collection of cookbooks. I am mostly vegetarian so that helps. I am always on the lookout for recipes that fit my criteria. I also love baking own whole wheat bread, muffins, scones etc. That helps fill me up. Good luck!
by Toadandfriends
Wed Jul 04, 2018 9:41 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Where to Find Sandals with Adjustable, Velcro Straps for Older Lady
Replies: 18
Views: 1357

Re: Where to Find Sandals with Adjustable, Velcro Straps for Older Lady

I love the velcro adjustable sandals from Easy Spirit. They are inexpensive but comfortable and have lasted a long time. Available in medium and wide widths. Sale going on now :) Good luck!

https://www.easyspirit.com/comfortable- ... women.html
by Toadandfriends
Sat Jun 16, 2018 9:20 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Personal finance HELP
Replies: 19
Views: 1909

Re: Personal finance HELP

One thing I'll urge you to do if you haven't already is get disability insurance for your husband. Also get real health insurance for your family. Medi Share clearly discloses (https://mychristiancare.org/our-ministry/disclosures/) that it is not health insurance . This means that you are taking your chances -- and your family could suffer a devastating financial loss (medical bills are the #1 cause U.S. bankruptcies) if one of you experiences a major health setback. If you don't already have life insurance I believe that any family should have term life to protect against loss of income for the surviving spouse and kids. This. Health, life, disability. ASAP. Health insurance isn't optional. Hospital bills are terrifying. I recently spent ...
by Toadandfriends
Fri Jun 15, 2018 6:13 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Portfolio review
Replies: 7
Views: 1142

Re: Portfolio review

Hello OP, These three are great low cost options in your plan. And, notice that they have low turnover and many holdings: FID 500 INDEX INST (FXSIX) (US large cap index fund, 4% turnover, 508 holdings) FID EXT MKT IDX PR (FSEVX) (US mid and small cap index fund, 11% turnover, 3092 holdings) VANG SM CAP IDX ADM (VSMAX) (US small cap index fund, 14.5% turnover, 1440 holdings) You could combine FXSIX and FSEVX to create a proxy for the Vanguard Total Stock Market. Or, you could use some combination of the FXSIX and the Vanguard small cap index fund if you wanted a bit of a US small cap tilt. I would be hesitant to use the TROIX fund for my international exposure if I had other options. It does have a low turnover (13%) but only has 159 holding...
by Toadandfriends
Wed Jun 13, 2018 12:39 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Install different carpet styles/colors in same floor bedrooms?
Replies: 19
Views: 3062

Re: Install different carpet styles/colors in same floor bedrooms?

I'd put down hardwoods and then change out big decorative area rugs as kids get older. Plus easier to replace if damaged or as tastes change with age. But I really like hardwood floors :)
Have fun decorating.
by Toadandfriends
Sun Jun 10, 2018 9:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Bogleheads, tell me about your 40's?
Replies: 300
Views: 83393

Re: Bogleheads, tell me about your 40's?

My best advice to anyone in their 40s - exercise at least 5 days a week if not every day. Cardio til you drip sweat, mobility, flexibility, strength, balance....!!!!! Different moves every day and lots of different vegetables every day.
https://www.ted.com/talks/wendy_suzuki_ ... f_exercise

Enjoy life,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Sun Jun 10, 2018 10:26 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Post Your Morningstar Box Style
Replies: 116
Views: 14507

Re: Post Your Morningstar Box Style

16 17 11
09 10 08
12 10 07
by Toadandfriends
Fri Jun 08, 2018 12:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: daughter wants a college transfer?
Replies: 65
Views: 7469

Re: daughter wants a college transfer?

Folks,
It isn't necessarily too late to transfer for fall. Definitely not for spring 2019. Transfer students may be accepted for fall '18 on a rolling basis after deadlines- will depend on space in programs and individual university. Many smaller 4 year state schools are still accepting applicants for fall. Would definitely need to check each school.
:beer
by Toadandfriends
Fri Jun 08, 2018 9:26 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: daughter wants a college transfer?
Replies: 65
Views: 7469

Re: daughter wants a college transfer?

Of course there is never a guarantee in life that a change will result in improvement. However, I have attended and taught at multiple institutions and it is important to realize that large research institutions and undergrad teaching institutions are radically different. Currently I teach at a small state school in midwest and I love the atmosphere. Undergrad class sizes average 15 and are always taught by a professor with doctorate. Teachers are evaluated on teaching first and foremost -research is secondary. We need to engage individual students in research (NCUR) and independent study projects to succeed professionally. We know all the students by name and absolutely know when a student is struggling. There are extensive support systems...
by Toadandfriends
Sat Jun 02, 2018 8:09 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: TIAA commingles Roth and non-Roth retirement funds?
Replies: 15
Views: 2001

Re: TIAA commingles Roth and non-Roth retirement funds?

I have a similar issue with my 457 managed by TRowe Price. My contributions are split between Roth and non-Roth but you can't elect different investments for the two types of accounts (and same choices for both). And, everything is presented on the website as a single account. When I called Trowe to ask about this they confirmed that there isn't anyway to separate the investment elections. However, I have found a way to go in each month and sell my Roth bonds and purchase stocks only in the Roth. It is complicated and a pain in the neck and not remotely intuitive. And the rep did not tell me about it! So in some situations for some people that might be a possibility.
Best wishes,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Sun May 27, 2018 11:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Please help with grocery budget
Replies: 51
Views: 5873

Re: Please help with grocery budget

I changed my food shopping and eating habits to save money. I thought it was really, really hard. We have to eat every single day - multiple times a day. What a pain! I think this makes it a really tough budget item. It isn't as simple as switching one time to a lower cost phone plan - food comes up again and again. And changing eating habits is so difficult! I am finally at a place where my food budget and eating are where I want them to be and it has literally taken me years of trying and backsliding. Finally I cook everything (I had to learn to cook well) and eat mostly vegetarian. Careful meal planning has been the key to lower food costs for me. I use recipes (meals are heavy on veggies) that are easy, quick, and include accessible and...
by Toadandfriends
Sun May 27, 2018 9:17 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Getting Furniture into a Basement
Replies: 41
Views: 14544

Re: Getting Furniture into a Basement

Glad that worked out for you and you have a furnished basement!
Cheers,
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Tue May 15, 2018 10:17 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Can a <median household save 1 year of expenses every year?
Replies: 158
Views: 14590

Re: Can a <median household save 1 year of expenses every year?

Well, for what it's worth - I do this. And, I could cut my living expenses back even further if properly motivated. My current base salary is almost 60. (I do tend to be able to work extra and add a bit to this - so maybe 65 -70 some years when lucky.) I am able to keep my expenses (after taxes) to $2000 a month. I think the catch is that I live in a town, not a city. So I was able to choose an inexpensive house and keep my monthly mortgage payments under $700. I don't eat out, I drive an older car, spend my weekends cooking, baking, and freezing food, mow my own grass, use library for entertainment, (no shopping!) bike, cobble my own shoes (kidding), etc. I have expensive pets and pay for slow wifi and monthly recycling. Occasionally I eve...
by Toadandfriends
Sat May 12, 2018 9:10 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Question about Vanguard Small Cap Value Fund VS. ETF
Replies: 10
Views: 1074

Re: Question about Vanguard Small Cap Value Fund VS. ETF

Hello,
You might be interested in this Vanguard webcast ‘what you need to know about ETFs’
https://investornews.vanguard/webcast-r ... d-to-know/

Best wishes.
Toadandfriends
by Toadandfriends
Mon Apr 30, 2018 7:50 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Visiting OK and KS with family
Replies: 31
Views: 3907

Re: Visiting OK and KS with family

This is a gem in OKC:
Museum of Osteology
Fun and interesting for kids and adults
http://skeletonmuseum.com/skeletons-okc.php