Search found 678 matches

by Yooper
Sun Mar 24, 2024 8:30 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pressure Washer
Replies: 20
Views: 1582

Re: Pressure Washer

I got a SunJoe SPX3000 and am happy with it. I'm not a heavy duty user though. If you live in a cold climate, store it indoors or where it can't freeze in the winter. I didn't with my first one, which is why I'm on my second one.
by Yooper
Sun Mar 17, 2024 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Soccer for kids - supplemental practice drills, suggestions, etc
Replies: 18
Views: 1534

Re: Soccer for kids - supplemental practice drills, suggestions, etc

Let the game come to him. Years ago my son's first season - no soccer experience at all and on an Under 6 team in a rec league, he soured on it half way through the season. So bad that I had to promise him Dairy Queen after practices to go (grin). To the league's credit, they were very strict on the fact that it was supposed to be fun, and the parents by and large were supportive of this. By season's end though, he was done.

But lo and behold, the following spring he was asking when it started again and ever since he's been obsessed with the game. Give it time.
by Yooper
Fri Mar 08, 2024 5:34 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Non-WiFi Dishwasher Needed Software Update
Replies: 33
Views: 3008

Re: Non-WiFi Dishwasher Needed Software Update

If you are squeamish about dishwashers I recommend you never look into the kitchen behind your favorite restaurant. I used to run one of those Hobart commercial dishwashers. I would load up a rack with 20 big plates, slide it into the dishwasher, push the button and it was done -- not 2 hours, not 1 hour -- 1 minute, that is 60 seconds total, for wash and rinse. They also have an actual person that is a "dish washer" clean dishes before it's loaded into the appliance. They don't just take a plate directly off the table and load it in there. Back in my early teen years the only dishes we had to "wash" before putting them into the Hobart were 1) breakfast plates that had egg yolk (those we stacked and soaked - then put in...
by Yooper
Fri Mar 01, 2024 2:52 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Mini Excavator Question: CAT vs Kubota
Replies: 25
Views: 2763

Re: Mini Excavator Question: CAT vs Kubota

We are going to chip the trees. We’ll also fill holes around the property and move around a lot of dirt. I have an island on the property so that will be modified as well. Lots of fun excavator If you're concerned about the fuel needs for a 43 hp mini excavator, then brace yourself for the chipper. A 24 hp chipper will likely have a 6x6 throat and comfortably chip about a 4" diameter branch, tops. You're looking at a minimum of 250 hp for a whole tree chipper. What is the plan for the roots? Roots are big and heavy, they're caked with dirt and rocks, and will destroy the blades on a chipper. I'm not asking questions to be critical, but to make you aware of the complexity and scale of this project. By the way, mini excavators are not a...
by Yooper
Mon Feb 19, 2024 7:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Snowblowers - Electric Start Option
Replies: 16
Views: 1247

Re: Snowblowers - Electric Start Option

Electric start!!! Why would you use the pull cord option? Just so you could risk damaging your shoulder or something else? Our Ariens fires right up every time with the electric start. What am i missing? Why would you pull on the damn cord??? I'm already unhappy I've got to go out and blow all this $#@!%$ snow, so it allows me to release some of my anger and frustration, (grin). Plus I'd have to plug in the extension cord, start it, unplug the cord, forget to put it away properly, trip over it when I came back, be on the ground fumbling for my phone so I could call my wife to come and help me get up, who'd still be in bed sleeping and angry when she came out of the house, cursing me for being so dumb as to not look where I'm walking and re...
by Yooper
Mon Feb 19, 2024 4:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Snowblowers - Electric Start Option
Replies: 16
Views: 1247

Snowblowers - Electric Start Option

If you have the option for electric start on a snowblower, it might be something you want to consider when making your decision. This morning I went out to blow my driveway and naturally the pull cord broke on the first pull and the rope retracted into the mechanism. My first reaction was, "Great, now I need to take it apart and replace the cord before I can even start getting rid of this snow..." Then I remembered it had an electric start. I replaced the cord later during the day, but for the moment the problem was solved. This is the second time I've had to replace the cord and each time it lasted about 4 years, so I need to make a note for fall of 2027 to proactively replace it. But, the electric start option saved me some aggr...
by Yooper
Sun Feb 18, 2024 5:58 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Security Hack of my bank credit card and loss of identity info
Replies: 35
Views: 4566

Re: Security Hack of my bank credit card and loss of identity info

I've several times read about Yubikey in this forum. This post finally motivated me to find out more about it. But what is your response to this latest review in Amazon regarding it? Last year I purchased two (primary and a backup). Yes, there is a slight learning curve, but it is NOT a showstopper. I reviewed a few Youtube videos, bookmarked the ones that made the most sense, and then set about "programming" them. Piece of cake. The only downside is that if I had to add an additional account to my Yubikeys I'd have to review the video again, but only because I do it so seldomly. I'd buy them again in a heartbeat. Oh, and just FYI, I've carried the key (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HBD71HL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_titl...
by Yooper
Sat Feb 17, 2024 8:01 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to get my road paved
Replies: 77
Views: 6057

Re: How to get my road paved

Obviously this bothers you considerably. Apparently the neighbors aren't as concerned, or if they are they aren't concerned enough to take any action. If it were me I'd resign myself to doing all the heavy lifting. Either in person or through writing, make your case to your neighbors, ideally documenting the cost of your vehicle repairs and the steps you've already taken with regards to approaching the relevant authorities. Then ask if they'd be willing to sign petitions (chances are you'll need to send more than one) requesting action be taken concerning the road. The process will likely take years since it will depend on the city budget and competing projects. Your chances are better if you're persistent. If it works out, great. If it doe...
by Yooper
Thu Feb 15, 2024 9:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pay cleaning lady for snow day?
Replies: 119
Views: 10294

Re: Pay cleaning lady for snow day?

I wonder if the title was "Pay pool boy for particulate matter day" would garner the same responses.
by Yooper
Thu Feb 15, 2024 2:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pay cleaning lady for snow day?
Replies: 119
Views: 10294

Re: Pay cleaning lady for snow day?

8foot7 wrote: Thu Feb 15, 2024 1:50 pm
snackdog wrote: Thu Feb 15, 2024 9:23 am You could consider not only paying for the snow day but a tip on top of that in case she had difficulty with other customers, a stuck car, etc.
So now not only are we paying for services not performed but we're also paying more money on top? :confused I can understand, even if I don't agree with, the argument for paying the regular amount but for the life of me I can't wrap my head around paying even more than that in case she had a bad day.
I assumed it was tongue in cheek. Otherwise we're really picking up speed on this slippery slope.
by Yooper
Thu Feb 15, 2024 2:38 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What email address is "okay/acceptable" to use then?
Replies: 168
Views: 18370

Re: What email address is "okay/acceptable" to use then?

It's an address. For communication. I don't think any more (or less) of what it's comprised of than I do a street address or an individual's phone number. The content? Well that's another matter entirely.
by Yooper
Tue Feb 13, 2024 1:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best dumb thermostat?
Replies: 35
Views: 3076

Re: Best dumb thermostat?

Don't know about best, but we've used https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0088 ... UTF8&psc=1 for the past 5 years. Set it once and you're done.
by Yooper
Thu Feb 08, 2024 5:52 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Turn around time on passports
Replies: 19
Views: 1929

Re: Turn around time on passports

January 2024 - Four weeks from time it was processed at post office until it showed up in my mailbox. Regular service (not expedited).
by Yooper
Fri Feb 02, 2024 4:07 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Is Everyone's Info Really on the Dark Web?
Replies: 25
Views: 3412

Re: Is Everyone's Info Really on the Dark Web?

howard71 wrote: Fri Feb 02, 2024 1:03 pm Does anyone have a link to the dark web so I can check it out for myself?
I’ve always felt that just GOING on the dark web (I.e. with Tor) garners unwelcome attention from state/federal entities. I’ve got no evidence to support this, but it’s what I believe. To paraphrase the old saying “nothing good ever happens after midnight”, I say “nothing good ever happens on the dark web”.
by Yooper
Mon Jan 29, 2024 5:35 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quality of insulation found in SFH of different vintages in the Upper Midwest and possible remedies
Replies: 23
Views: 1901

Re: Quality of insulation found in SFH of different vintages in the Upper Midwest and possible remedies

As a kid, I personally assisted in insulating our homes attic. Shoving batts of R19 into the eaves with a hockey stick. I don’t remember doing anything about the walls of our all brick home though. Really, I just wouldn’t want a house that old. They added AC later. They added insulation later. They added or upgraded (or didn’t) the electric service later. And in and on. The closets are tiny. I just imagine it’s all poorly done…… I grew up in a brick house as well. I love the look of brick houses, but ours - and all the other older brick houses - had minimal insulation and virtually no way to add adequate insulation later. Definitely not the walls. Dad, who was a very handy guy, added what he could in the roof (where he could) but there was...
by Yooper
Sun Jan 28, 2024 8:55 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Advice on leak into basement drywall
Replies: 28
Views: 2707

Re: Advice on leak into basement drywall

2) The wood beams that I was told that were carrying then weight of the house. These might potentially be slightly at the surface be damaged by water but no actual damage was visible. These are recommended to be replaced. I'm no builder by trade, but three 2x4's glued together don't seem to me a way to "carry the weight of the house". Looks more like normal door framing, albeit with three 2x4's as opposed to two sandwiched together. Google "framing a door opening" and you'll see what I mean. Seems like the header of the door should have been placed on top of the trimmer stud, but again I'm no builder. I'll let the more experienced people chime in, but I'd definitely have a pro look at it and see if they can figure out e...
by Yooper
Sat Jan 20, 2024 9:10 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best cookware to buy
Replies: 143
Views: 13943

Re: Best cookware to buy

Kagord wrote: Sat Jan 20, 2024 6:56 am For best, these brands come to mind as to what a Michelin 3 star might be using, Hestan, Demeyere, All-Clad.

Above what I would pay, Vollrath, Winco, and Browne are my mainstays.
When I was single I replaced all my existing pots and pans (except my cast iron standbys) with Demeyere Apollo. Got a piece each paycheck until I had what I wanted (even then it was expensive). 25 years, wife, three children later and it still looks as good as it did when I took it out of the box. And I/we cook daily. One of the best investments I ever made. But if I knew I wasn't going to actually use it on a regular basis, I'd certainly go with something less expensive.
by Yooper
Fri Jan 12, 2024 3:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: cross country ski recommendations
Replies: 13
Views: 1337

Re: cross country ski recommendations

Before I spent tons of money on something, I'd buy used (i.e. https://www.playitagainsports.com/home) and find out what I really want after skiing for a while. Then get the good stuff. If you like it, you're a better informed buyer. If you don't, no biggee - you haven't spent that much on gear. I bought used ski gear for my kids and wife since I wasn't sure if they'd take to it, and I'm sooo glad I did. Because they didn't....
by Yooper
Thu Oct 26, 2023 11:43 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Building a House -- Review my modular house floor plan
Replies: 53
Views: 6430

Re: Building a House -- Review my modular house floor plan

I'd get tired of those stairs after about the umpteenth time of lugging groceries up. Any way you could build a separate/attached garage?
by Yooper
Wed Oct 25, 2023 5:24 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Do you use Rain-X? Is there something better?
Replies: 40
Views: 5128

Re: Do you use Rain-X? Is there something better?

Been using the Rain-X premix wiper solution forever. I don't know how much work it is to apply their other product directly to the windshield and then buff off, or if it works better, but the premix works for me so I see no reason to switch.
by Yooper
Tue Oct 24, 2023 6:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Please educate me. Are all USB-c cables the same?
Replies: 20
Views: 2587

Re: Please educate me. Are all USB-c cables the same?

Per above, no - they're not all the same. The following WSJ video is an example (https://www.wsj.com/video/series/dalvin ... s15&page=1). I don't think it's behind a paywall.
by Yooper
Wed Oct 18, 2023 6:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Anyone get car seat covers???
Replies: 16
Views: 1618

Re: Anyone get car seat covers???

I got a set of "Coverking" seat covers for the front seats of my truck back in 2015. I was worried about stains and/or tears in the fabric, think getting in with a screwdriver in your back pocket. They've held up well to everything I've thrown at them. They don't "look" well, but they've certainly served their purpose a multitude of times over the years and I'll do seat covers again when I get another truck - - or any vehicle that I'm the primary driver.
by Yooper
Mon Oct 16, 2023 12:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vinyl plank vs. waterproof laminate
Replies: 20
Views: 5245

Re: Vinyl plank vs. waterproof laminate

Installed Lifeproof LVP from Home Depot last year. It's only been a year so I can't say how it'll hold up long term, but we've been satisfied. If you go the LVP route, definitely get an extra box as another poster recommended. It's not "easy" to replace a section, but from what I've seen on Youtube it is do-able and it'd be nice to have extra pieces from the same lot if/when that time arrived. For what it's worth, a waste piece ended up in a bucket on the deck. It rained for a few days. About a month after the install I happened to notice it, picked it out, flicked off the water and did a close inspection. Looked and felt like new with no de-lamination or swelling. Maybe that's par for all LVP, but I was impressed.
by Yooper
Mon Oct 09, 2023 8:35 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Trouble Accessing TSP Account
Replies: 26
Views: 2035

Re: Strange TSP Login Issue

gouldnm wrote: Mon Oct 09, 2023 8:22 am
Yooper wrote: Mon Oct 09, 2023 7:43 am [Thread merged into here --admin LadyGeek]
I can log into my account via an iPad and an iPhone.
When you say you can log into the iPad and iPhone, are you talking about the TSP APP or through Safari? I can log into the TSP APP but there are limited things that I can do there. I cannot log in through Safari.

If you are able to get into the full site on your iPhone or iPad, I'd be interested in more details. Thanks.
Through Safari on both. Although the only reason I logged in was to retrieve my statement - - and that menu pick is the only one that won't work once I'm in. I'm simply assuming the site will be fixed later today or tomorrow once they realize it's having problems.
by Yooper
Mon Oct 09, 2023 7:54 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Trouble Accessing TSP Account
Replies: 26
Views: 2035

Re: Strange TSP Login Issue

Sorry, didn't see the other conversation. This thread can be considered closed.
by Yooper
Mon Oct 09, 2023 7:43 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Trouble Accessing TSP Account
Replies: 26
Views: 2035

Strange TSP Login Issue

[Thread merged into here --admin LadyGeek] When attempting to log in to the TSP website to download the 3rd quarter statement, I'm unable to get past the SMS authentication process. I logon with username and password, enter the SMS code, and then it hangs at https://api.rk.tsp.gov/api/angularfirst-app/ah-angular-afirst-web/?clientId=06437&orgName=converge#/web/login/sso . I've tried different browsers, I've tried two other Windows machine, cleared cookies/cache, etc., all with the same issue. I can log into my account via an iPad and an iPhone. Is anyone else experiencing a similar problem? If it was widespread I assumed there would be some grumbling on the internet, but so far I haven't seen anything. My last successful login was on S...
by Yooper
Sun Sep 24, 2023 6:44 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: My Elderly Parents Can't Resist Answering the Phone
Replies: 127
Views: 39198

Re: My Elderly Parents Can't Resist Answering the Phone

We're in the same camp. I just set up the answering machine to pick up after two rings (that way they don't have time to get to the phone) and then check the messages (99% of the time none are left) each time I'm over. Family knows to call on the cell phone as opposed to the landline. We only keep the landline for the off chance there's an emergency and they can't find the cell phone (it gets "lost" repeatedly), at least they have a way to call out. We've also set up Nomorobo, along with the landline provider's spam blocking service. Our system isn't perfect, but it's far better than it was before.
by Yooper
Sat Sep 23, 2023 8:12 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Archival of Statements
Replies: 44
Views: 3181

Re: Archival of Statements

jebmke wrote: Fri Sep 22, 2023 3:14 pm My PDFs back to 2006 take up 106mb on my computer. Will I need them? Probably not. It takes me ~ 10 seconds to grab them each month when I check transactions at the end of the month so the cost to get and keep them is effectively zero.
The same, except with a twist. I save everything that's in pdf format. All financials, utility bills, Blue Cross Blue Shield EOBs, phone/internet, etc. Twice I've had dispute medical bills and it was very helpful to walk in with printed copies of the EOBs to assist in explaining my case. It's just me, but I like to have instant access to statements without having to track them down online.
by Yooper
Thu Sep 14, 2023 7:19 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: State DOT damaged my driveway
Replies: 5
Views: 1460

Re: State DOT damaged my driveway

Ahhh, the joys of a highway right-of-way. I have about 75 yards of mature spruce trees that were planted (prior to my ownership) almost exactly on the property line. It's nice because they provide privacy and dampen the noise from traffic. This summer the county came by and as they were clearing grass/brush along the highway, simply flipped the brushhog vertical and sheared off every branch right up to the actual trunks and to a level just under the power lines. It looks just as bad as it sounds... It was completely unnecessary as I regularly clip any overhanging branches so I have a clear line of sight when exiting my driveway and NONE of them extended over the ditch, let alone near the road. But, since what was cut was in fact in the righ...
by Yooper
Mon Sep 11, 2023 11:53 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pulling permit for new bath
Replies: 18
Views: 2066

Re: Pulling permit for new bath

I did all three permits (building/electrical/plumbing) for a basement bathroom I was installing. Building inspector was very helpful, as were the electrical and plumbing inspectors. I'd have no hesitation to do it again. However I was doing all the work. In your case I'd have the contractor pull them, even if it was slightly more expensive - less hassle for you.
by Yooper
Mon Sep 04, 2023 6:56 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fire Hydrant - installation
Replies: 38
Views: 3139

Re: Fire Hydrant - installation

Hats off to you for looking into this, very forward thinking. I agree with another poster that 10K for a turnkey install is a steal. I'd certainly contribute. To answer your question, you have to figure a way to "sell" this to all involved. I'd first check and see if in fact it lowers my home insurance and by how much. If there is a reduction in insurance, then approach those neighbors you're on good terms with, show them your figures, and ask if they'd be willing to reach out to their insurance companies to see if they too might get a reduction in premiums. Compile the information as you go (hopefully continuing to build your case) and share with each of the prospective contributors. In the end it has to be very apparent to each ...
by Yooper
Wed Aug 30, 2023 6:22 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What's the worst annual return on physical real estate?
Replies: 76
Views: 10660

Re: What's the worst annual return on physical real estate?

snackdog wrote: Tue Aug 29, 2023 8:48 pm This is like asking what is the most an individual, un-named stock can drop in a year.
This is true, particularly since real estate can have many meanings. Are we talking about vacant land, a home in a depressed area of the nation or one in a high cost of living area, business property, etc. As someone else mentioned, taxes are involved. I purchased some vacant land in 2006 for 50K. Have paid 15K in taxes over the years. And it's still worth about 50K. I've enjoyed it's use so it's priceless to me, but the fact remains it's lost money.
by Yooper
Thu Aug 24, 2023 7:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.
Replies: 83
Views: 5149

Re: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.

If you have children, assign them nightly Fire Watch responsibilities on a rotating schedule. I hated this duty in the Marine Corps, but the alarm only went up when there was real danger. On a serious note though, I feel your pain. What I really wish they had was a fire alarm that the sensitivity could be "customized". Our units are hardwired, but the one in the living room (close to the kitchen) goes off whenever the oven is over 425. Then we have to open the windows, direct a fan at the unit, and wait for the pandemonium to subside. I'm this close to chucking that alarm and simply wiring around the location... Look up different kinds of detectors - some are designed to go off in other circumstances and may work for you. Also ch...
by Yooper
Thu Aug 24, 2023 7:04 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.
Replies: 83
Views: 5149

Re: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.

retiringwhen wrote: Thu Aug 24, 2023 6:58 pm
Yooper wrote: Thu Aug 24, 2023 6:55 pm Our units are hardwired, but the one in the living room (close to the kitchen) goes off whenever the oven is over 425.
Look into a Photo Electric vs. an Ionization. They are specifically designed to be less likely to go off from kitchen emissions.

There is a theory that you should both kinds in your house. I bough Photo Electric + CO detectors in the main hallways and near kitchen, Ionization in bedrooms, etc.
Thank you! You've made a friend for life. Going to order one now.
by Yooper
Thu Aug 24, 2023 6:55 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.
Replies: 83
Views: 5149

Re: Smoke detector that only makes noise when there is real danger.

If you have children, assign them nightly Fire Watch responsibilities on a rotating schedule. I hated this duty in the Marine Corps, but the alarm only went up when there was real danger.

On a serious note though, I feel your pain. What I really wish they had was a fire alarm that the sensitivity could be "customized". Our units are hardwired, but the one in the living room (close to the kitchen) goes off whenever the oven is over 425. Then we have to open the windows, direct a fan at the unit, and wait for the pandemonium to subside. I'm this close to chucking that alarm and simply wiring around the location...
by Yooper
Thu Aug 24, 2023 8:03 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: VeraCrypt mystery behavior
Replies: 6
Views: 1095

Re: VeraCrypt mystery behavior

No idea what's going on, but until you get it figured out could you first copy the files to a Veracrypt container on your laptop, then copy that singular file to the Veracrypt container on the USB? If it successfully copies a "few files" from the container before dismounting, perhaps this single file might work. I too use Veracrypt, but a little differently than you. My external hard drives are configured as Veracrypt volumes. I connect the drive, mount the volume, and then using Macrium Reflect back up an image of the computer to the Veracrypt volume. Initially I was using the free version of Macrium which doesn't allow file level restores, just the image. But when I had a catastrophic failure and Macrium's restore worked flawles...
by Yooper
Wed Aug 23, 2023 2:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Vanguard has blocked/blacklisted my home IP address
Replies: 206
Views: 17067

Re: Vanguard has blocked/blacklisted my home IP address

Vanguard's IT and customer service leave a lot to be desired. TBH I would take this as an indicator you should take your business elsewhere - you can get paid thousands for doing so. But specific to your issue: one way to get around the problem - if it is indeed that Vanguard is blocking your IP address - is to use your phone as a hotspot, or just use your phone to access vanguard.com while connected to the cell network (not your home wifi). Have you also tried using a different browser? Oh yes, we have tried both Safari and Chrome. We have also tried emptying the cache and cookies w/o any effect. In the short term, we simply make our trades using the telephone and talking to a Flagship rep. Once a month, or so, we can take our laptop to t...
by Yooper
Sun Aug 13, 2023 8:33 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to evict skunk family living under shed?
Replies: 69
Views: 8225

Re: How to evict skunk family living under shed?

Pest control company. Then close up whatever openings they’re using to get under there, or it will happen again. +1, and much better than the method my mom used, then again, she was one of a kind. (Advance warning of graphic detail) We were visiting extended family on their farm in a different state when they happened to mention that a family of skunks had moved in under their henhouse, and had been stealing the eggs. My mom asked if they had a shovel. We all watched in disbelief from the safety of the porch as she took the shovel out to the henhouse and dug them out, killing them with it, one by one as they emerged. In the process she got covered in spray, some of which got in her eyes, which was apparently very painful. We all piled into...
by Yooper
Sat Aug 12, 2023 7:58 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Gravel or concrete driveway, out in the country??
Replies: 45
Views: 3960

Re: Gravel or concrete driveway, out in the country??

If you live in an area where frost heave is an issue, that's always a consideration for large stretches of concrete. Eventually you'd have uneven sections due to shifting.
by Yooper
Sun Aug 06, 2023 7:29 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sliding Glass Door (to deck)
Replies: 33
Views: 5070

Re: Sliding Glass Door (to deck)

Interesting this thread should resurface now. My 13 year old sliding patio door needs new rollers. Scoured all the traditional locations/websites for the exact type and was unsuccessful. Until I stumbled upon swisco.com. Per their website I sent photos and dimensions, within hours I got a response and they were able to provide exactly what I need. They should be here sometime this week. Just an FYI for anyone else who might have an odd set of rollers and having difficulty finding replacements.
by Yooper
Fri Aug 04, 2023 5:24 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Quality Chef's Knife as Wedding Gift
Replies: 44
Views: 2672

Re: Quality Chef's Knife as Wedding Gift

jlawrence01 wrote: Fri Aug 04, 2023 10:57 am Personally, as a person who cooks everyday, the LAST THING that I want is to have someone buy me a knife. WHY? They do not know what brands I like and they do not know what I need.
This is my case as well. Love my Henckels, but they're not for everyone. BUT, a bread knife is a bread knife is a bread knife - at least in my opinion. And everyone needs a bread knife! Or will after they use one... Why not get that and if they like the heft/handle/style they may stick with that brand.
by Yooper
Tue Aug 01, 2023 1:52 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: AZ landlord. Renter refused to pay the last month's rent. What next?
Replies: 117
Views: 14320

Re: AZ landlord. Renter refused to pay the last month's rent. What next?

If you’re going to see a lawyer, I’d also inquire if his threat falls under the legal definition of extortion. Sure seems like it to my untrained eye.
by Yooper
Thu Jul 27, 2023 7:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Anyone recently get a US Passport for Minors?
Replies: 40
Views: 4150

Re: Anyone recently get a US Passport for Minors?

This is a huge risk if you arrive home and the US agent won’t let you in for not following US immigration rules of having 6 months or more, regardless of what the other country allows. It is extremely unlikely (and I think, possibly impossible) for the US to not allow a US citizen entry, passport validity or no. The worst case is they interrogate you. Yeah, never happen. Less than two years ago (https://www.state.gov/return-travel-on-recently-expired-u-s-passports/) they allowed you to enter with EXPIRED passports. I'm not aware of any "US immigration rule" concerning Americans entering with 6 months or more on their passport. But I could be wrong. There is, but the "Six Month Club" effectively eliminates it. Six Month ...
by Yooper
Thu Jul 27, 2023 6:52 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Anyone recently get a US Passport for Minors?
Replies: 40
Views: 4150

Re: Anyone recently get a US Passport for Minors?

bombcar wrote: Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:57 am
lthenderson wrote: Wed Jul 26, 2023 4:13 pm This is a huge risk if you arrive home and the US agent won’t let you in for not following US immigration rules of having 6 months or more, regardless of what the other country allows.
It is extremely unlikely (and I think, possibly impossible) for the US to not allow a US citizen entry, passport validity or no.

The worst case is they interrogate you.
Yeah, never happen. Less than two years ago (https://www.state.gov/return-travel-on- ... passports/) they allowed you to enter with EXPIRED passports. I'm not aware of any "US immigration rule" concerning Americans entering with 6 months or more on their passport. But I could be wrong.
by Yooper
Wed Jul 26, 2023 5:22 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The early 2000, a terrible time for investing?
Replies: 86
Views: 8385

Re: The early 2000, a terrible time for investing?

I don't. Only 8 years into my investing career at that time. Wasn't yet caught up fora like Bogleheads. Just kept putting money into the stock market. My situation exactly, except I was 7 years in. In fact, I didn't even have online access at the time so I relied on monthly/quarterly paper statements to know how I was doing - and with those I'd simple three hole punch and file after briefly looking at them. My job was secure, all contributions were monthly auto-invest, and with no investing knowledge or market experience I simply assumed it was temporary and would start growing again "pretty soon". I actually increased my savings with each pay increase as I always had. Looking back now, I'm glad I was naive since I might have mad...
by Yooper
Sat Jun 24, 2023 5:30 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: dental night guard
Replies: 29
Views: 2103

Re: dental night guard

Tree Guy wrote: Sat Jun 24, 2023 3:54 pm
wrendan wrote: Sat Jun 24, 2023 3:40 pm I would go with one made by your dentist. I tried over the counter ones for years that did not fit well. The difference between something that is over the counter vs made specifically for your mouth is worth the cost x 10 IMO.
+1, I had the same experience and the dentist can adjust when needed.
Agree. It took a number of visits to my dentist to get my bite splint just right (I've got a picky dentist) and then it was perfect. A bit expensive, but it lasts virtually forever after. Or mine has.
by Yooper
Wed Jun 14, 2023 5:42 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Best tool for sharpening kitchen knives?
Replies: 49
Views: 4368

Re: Best tool for sharpening kitchen knives?

Best or convenient? "Best" is like asking anyone what is best, you'll get varying responses - all of which are true. Convenient is another matter and depending on the person, might be more important since you might be more likely to use it. I've been using a Chef'sChoice 130 Professional Electric Knife Sharpening Station (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CSK0DM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) for 15 years with no complaints. It's convenient for my kitchen knives and as a result I tend to use it more than I would if I had to "dedicate" time to using a whet stone or other sharpening method (i.e. my Spyderco set). Plug it in, make a couple passes and I'm done. Is it as good as using my Spyderco? No....
by Yooper
Mon May 29, 2023 2:03 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Log splitter
Replies: 34
Views: 3372

Re: Log splitter

Or (tongue in cheek), make your own.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ks_lbtgJSw Any time I need a good chuckle, I watch the monstrosity at 1:53, even though the camera is sped up it's scary.
by Yooper
Mon May 29, 2023 1:58 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Log splitter
Replies: 34
Views: 3372

Re: Log splitter

Got my father a Ryobi exactly like this https://www.ryobitools.com/products/details/46396022691 about 15 years ago. It's done everything we've ever asked of it. Never had a problem. Larger logs take a bit longer to chip away at, but they eventually go. Takes up very little storage space. I'd buy again, but the thing never dies!
by Yooper
Sat May 06, 2023 5:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should I share my plan to retire with my boss?
Replies: 91
Views: 11856

Re: Should I share my plan to retire with my boss?

miamivice wrote: Sat May 06, 2023 11:40 am
As soon as your coworkers here about your impending retirement, you will be a has-been and no one will respect or put time into you, in my opinion. Thus, while they won't walk you out the door, the next year might be really boring and unfulfilling.
Federal job. Gave 4 months. This was my experience. In hindsight I'd have given a maximum of 60 days. And I was a person who lived and breathed my job - totally committed to the mission for my entire career.