Landscaping

So, we have once again started to landscape our yard. We figured that now that the deck was in, and we did some plantings last fall, that it was time to finish the process...at least out front. So, over Easter weekend, we put in the trim for the main front planting bed. We intend to put the trim in for the other bed over this weekend. We are also planning on planting at least 3 trees this weekend. One pine tree near the Electrical Boxes to mask them, and one Redbud will go in, in front of the den. As far as the corner tree. There is nothing definite yet. We have discussed dogwood, but I am not sold on it yet. Other ideas? It will sit at the front left corner of the house as you look at it from the road. I would like a smaller tree, since it will be close to the house. Once the beds and trees are done, we will put bark down to finish it off. Hopefully all completed before Patrick's graduation party on the 1st. We shall see. So, ideas on trees?

Tired of getting Credit Card solicitations?

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Motley Fool
The Coffee Break That Pays
Thursday April 8, 10:27 am ET
By Dayana Yochim


Having a slow day at work? Make the most of your spare time with these quick tips that will spiff up your finances.
Lean on Your Employer
Are you sampling the goodies offered by your employer? And, no, we're not talking about the box of Krispy Kreme (NYSE: KKD - News) donuts Cecil picks up for everyone each Friday morning. Corner your human resources manager and set up an appointment for this afternoon. Your agenda items include:


Benefits: Does the company offer a medical flex spending account? It allows you to put away pre-tax dollars to pay for everything from childcare to contact lenses to visits to the chiropractor.


Insurance: Many companies get group discounts on disability, long-term care, and even pet insurance.


Beneficiaries: Is the beneficiary information you filled out the day you started still up-to-date? It might have made you chuckle to fill in your cat's name when you started your job, but your wife and children may not find the joke very funny.


Retirement: Up the contribution you make to your retirement plan (401(k), 403(b), or whatever Mr. Boss provides). At the very least, make sure you contribute enough to get the company match. All you need to do so is a contribution change form.
Protect Your Good Name
What's more important than protecting your good reputation? How about that pristine credit record you've worked hard to keep clean. Your credit history determines what interest rates you pay on credit cards, a mortgage, and even how much you'll shell out for auto or homeowner's insurance in some states.

Sadly, identity theft is becoming more common, with crooks fraudulently running up credit card or cell phone accounts, passing bad checks or getting a loan in someone else's name. With a quick phone call and a trip to the Xerox machine, you can create a cocoon around your credit file while the coffee brews in the break room.

First, thwart the old-fashioned crime of wallet snatching by photocopying the contents of your wallet -- all cards, back and front -- and highlighting the customer service numbers. While you're at it, make a note in your checkbook to eliminate personal information (such as your Social Security number) from your checks the next time you need to order a batch.

Give trash-picking thieves less fodder by taking your name off the junk mail lists. Opt out of pre-approved credit card offers -- pure gold to ID thieves -- by calling 888-5OPTOUT (888-567-8688). If your boss asks questions, mention that the call was toll-free.

For more on preventing and dealing with ID theft, click here.

Take a Pay Cut
Yup, you read that right. Successful saving requires giving yourself less money to spend.

As you wait for your computer to boot up, pick a dollar amount you can bear to part with every paycheck. Write it down and tape it on the inside of your desk drawer as a constant reminder of your new-found savings resolve.

If you bank online, or can get to your local branch during lunchtime, automate the savings process. As they say, out of sight, out of mind. Set up a savings account that's separate from your regular checking account, and have a portion of each paycheck automatically directed into it.

While you're at it, make your money work harder. Supersize your balance with an account that earns the most interest. For short-term savings -- any money you'll need in the next five years or so -- look into the rates on Money Market accounts and Certificates of Deposit. Every little bit helps.

Now, congratulate yourself on a full and productive day at the office.

DVDs for $3

The site

So, someone at work gave me this link. It is obviously copyright infringement, especially, when you read the FAQ on the site. I thought everyone might be amused. Return of the King for $6. Might have a Chinese cover, but he/she promises to have it encoded in your language!

Stuff

Ambercon was fun. Thanks to all who worked on it!

Computers at work are now fully functioning. Yay!

Busy weekend this weekend.