APRILOQUIES

Cafe Gratitude Questions of the Day

2010-09-26T14:21:00.003-04:00

What are you not trusting?

It's interesting to me... when we're kids, we're full of trust. That childlike optimism, and ability to live in the moment is what many strive to rediscover and regain. Each time we experience betrayal, pain or trauma, a few more bricks are added to the wall we inevitably build as we age. The Innocent is a highly powerful and necessary archetype that gives us the energy and ability to take on new experiences (relationships, job ventures, etc.). Without optimism, innocence and some level of trust, we would have great difficulty making major changes in our lives. With trust being directly related to fear, perhaps you could ask the question, "What do you fear?" instead.

Sometimes it's easier to admit what you fear, rather than what you don't trust. I fear losing control / freedom. I was raised in an environment where money seemed to equal freedom. "Without money, you will struggle. With money, you have the freedom to go where you want and do what you want." Therefore, I've also always feared lack of money. Interesting, though, how I chose the path I've taken thus far. I wanted money, but I also wanted daily freedom from rigid schedules, dealing with bosses that are generally dumb, punching a clock, answering to any authority... Not to say that's necessarily a right or wrong way of thinking, but it is what it is.

Some of the bigger questions I might ask are, do you trust yourself? Do you trust God/the Universe/your Higher Power? I can say that I do. I lose faith from time to time, of course, but on a large scale, I can confidently answer yes. I believe when you find trust in yourself/your higher power (aren't they one in the same?), there is nothing you can't accomplish once you let go of the fears holding you back, and surrender to trust, love and peace. Often, the very thought of surrender elicits even more fear in people. This is what we must overcome if we're ever to find peace.

Who do you love?

My immediate answer would be the obvious... my family, friends & pets. Although it can be difficult & requires some reminding, I strive to learn to love everyone... those I disagree with, those who have hurt or wronged me, those I've never met or never will meet, etc. History's most enlightened and influential people taught this simple rule (think Jesus, Gandhi...) and for obvious reason, it's the most difficult for humans to accept and integrate into their lives. We're just not evolved enough yet.

It's been a while...

2010-05-29T16:34:00.001-04:00

A lot has happened since the last time I've written. I am no longer writing for MakeUseOf.com. I enjoyed my fling with them, but really I just had too much going on at the time. Things got crazy there for a couple of months!

In any case, I'm back in action now, working from home again for Beneva Flowers in Sarasota. I have been working with them on & off for a total of about 7 years. I worked at the shop for maybe four years, left the company, was asked to come back to work with a sister company of theirs, LocalFlowerShop.com. I did, and we worked together for a little while until I had to separate myself from the company again. In any case, I've done a ton of side jobs for them since then, and now am back on the books with them taking calls from home & handling their web maintenance, amongst other various things. It's a great deal! Who doesn't love working from home :)

In any case, I'm back, and I plan to write here & there about current happenings, and perhaps about the floral industry. Keep an eye out for a few "insider tips" (lol).

Peace

A First Look at Google Voice + 100 Invites To Give Away!

2009-12-07T13:40:00.000-05:00

My most recent article on MakeUseOf.com! Check it out, and be sure to Digg it if you dig it!

My Most Recent MakeUseOf.com Article: The Godfather

2009-12-03T11:16:00.000-05:00

My second article was published! Click here to check it out, and be sure to leave a comment!

My First MakeUseOf.com Published Article!

2009-11-30T21:28:00.000-05:00

Since my last post, I decided to apply to become a writer for MakeUseOf.com. I like the site so much, and it's totally within my realm of interest, so I figured, "why not?" I'm proud to say they accepted me, although it becomes totally official in a couple of weeks.

My first published article was posted today, and can be found here. I have another one coming up soon that I'll be posting as well. Enjoy!

My New Favorite Website: MakeUseOf.com

2009-11-09T01:11:00.000-05:00

Like many people, I have the Digg headlines on my iGoogle homepage, which I peruse on a daily basis. About a week ago, one of the top headlines was "15 Free Guides That Really Teach You USEFUL Stuff!" Considering the fact that I've created many manuals and walk-throughs in my day, not to mention I consider myself a total computer geek, I just had to check it out. I'm really glad I did.

MakeUseOf.com was the site that hosted these guides, along with thousands of other articles, guides, tips, downloads, etc. After checking out the site a little more thoroughly, I just had to sign up for their newsletter, and again... I'm glad I did. This site features pretty much everything you could want to know about, well... everything! Everything internet, geek, media, or computer-related you could want to know, that is. Who knows? Perhaps they even have the answers to the meaning of life hidden in there somewhere, too. All I know is that it's quickly become one of my top ten favorite sites.

Even though I'd already known much of what I read in the guides I chose to check out, there were definitely a few things I'd learned. What I liked the most, though, was the fact that they offer real information, including the "not so legal" routes to getting what you want. I don't come across a lot of sites that offer such well-rounded how-to articles.

A couple of years ago, I wrote out detailed instructions, showing a couple of family members the basics of downloading movies. I wish I had known about MakeUseOf.com back then! It would've saved me a lot of time. So, whether you're already a computer geek, or if you're not so computer savvy, this site's got something for everyone. I highly suggest you add it to your favorites, and sign up for their newsletter while you're at it!

Looking for a Sugar Daddy. Mommy, or Baby?

2009-11-01T23:05:00.002-05:00

Well, shoot fire and save the matches... I thought I had seen it all! SeekingArrangement.com proved me wrong, though, with its unique purpose and offerings.

Are you a zillionaire that just can't wait to blow your hard earned (or lazily inherited) cash on a pretty young thing? Or perhaps you're a struggling college student one platform shoe away from stripping to earn some extra cash? Well, search no further! SeekingArrangement offers a place for Sugar Daddies, Sugar Mommies, and Sugar Babies to meet, greet and blow each other..'s cash!

Simply set up your own profile (Sugar Baby profiles are free, you know, since they're broke and all) and use the site just like any other dating site. Are you looking for a pretty girl to travel the world with? Are you looking for a strange, yet rich man you've never met to whisk you out of the country and hope he brings you back? Or are you seeking more of a traditional relationship, and you happen to prefer the wealthy types? Make your intentions known on your profile, and potential matches will contact you. You can also peruse the selection and contact the ones you like, and work out an arrangement.

Some Sugar Daddies prefer a flat $1,000 - $3,000 per month agreement, in which their Sugar Baby will fly out to spend every other weekend with them. Some prefer to help a young girl get on her feet in exchange for a travel partner, and will pay her bills, and even give her an allowance for shopping money! Some are married, some are single, and most are totally up front with their expectations. The sky is the limit, and the opportunities are endless. You're sure to find what you're looking for on this modern twist on internet dating services.

How To Get FREE Shipping & Delivery

2009-10-25T22:34:00.000-04:00

If you've ever ordered an item to be delivered to your (or another recipient's) home, you are well aware of how steep those delivery and shipping charges can be. At my previous place of employment, people would purchase $25 cheesecakes and pay another $25 for shipping! Aside from the convenience factor, I never understood why people seemed so willing to pay just as much (and sometimes more) for shipping as the actual product they were purchasing.

Since running the shipping department there, I learned a lot about FedEx, UPS, DHL and other delivery services. One thing many people don't realize is that they can be refunded if their item is not delivered within a certain time frame.

Each time you place an order with FedEx, you are guaranteed delivery by a certain time on a certain day (with the exception of Ground shipping, which only guarantees a package within 7 - 10 business days). If your package does not arrive by the guaranteed delivery time, consider your shipment free, or at the very least, highly discounted!

Using FedEx as an example, standard overnight delivery guarantees most packages to arrive by 7:00 p.m. (depending on where the recipient lives). The guaranteed delivery time is listed on your confirmation. If that package is signed for at 7:15 p.m., plan on getting a refund. Remember, though - you must request your refund in order to receive it. They will not offer it unless you ask for it.

Obtaining your refund is as easy as a phone call. With a company like FedEx, you simply call their main 800 number (1-800-GO-FEDEX), keep hitting zero until you reach a human being, provide them with your tracking number, and explain to them that your package did not arrive on time, and you would like a refund. Most of the time, it's that simple. Sometimes, they will try to offer a discount, which you can choose to accept or not accept.

It's all about what's fair. With shipping and delivery costs as steep as they are, and the economy causing people to struggle as much as they do these days, it's important that the consumer is treated fairly. If a company fails to provide you a guaranteed service, then it is only fair that they issue you a refund.

Petshed.com: My Best Friend's New Best Friend

2009-10-20T15:07:00.000-04:00

(NOTE: Be sure to read the entire article. You are solely responsible for your actions and the products you choose to order. This article is simply here to inform visitors of a website I find to be worth mention. Use Petshed.com at your own risk!)

Assuming the old saying is true, then my dog (a.k.a. best friend) has a new best friend: Petshed.com. Here, you can order popular pet medications for far less than what you pay at the vet's office.

A quick glance at the site proves that many of the necessary meds your dogs and cats require can be found here, such as Advantix, Frontline, Advantage, Revolution, Heartgard, Heartgard Generic, dog and cat wormers, Interceptor, Sentinel, Comfortis, anxiety supplements, joint and arthritis care, dental care, ear & eye care, and many, many more. In addition to the dozens of medications they offer, they also sell pet beds, collars, crates, leashes, gates, fences, brushes, etc. The list goes on and on.

My personal favorite aspect, though, is the medications. Not only can you order medications from this site, you end up paying much less than what you would pay here in the states. Here's why... Most of these medications must be obtained at a vet's office, and/or with a prescription. Petshed, though, is located in Australia. The medications you purchase are exactly the same as those purchased here, but some of them don't require a prescription in Australia.

A couple of good examples are Heartgard and Interceptor. Heartgard does not require a prescription in Australia like it does here in the states, so you can order it straight from the site. Interceptor, though, is an example of a med that does require a prescription, in which case, you can have your vet's office fax it to Petshed. They make it very simple, painless, and inexpensive! Be sure to check the laws in your jurisdiction before ordering, if you are concerned about the legalities.

At first glance, some of the products don't seem that much cheaper, but look again. Keep in mind that here in the states, you must add the cost of the vet visit, exam fees, and whatever other charges you'd incur at the vet's office, on top of the cost of the medication.

I personally use Petshed to order Heartgard and Advantix Flea & Tick. I do not have to pay the $85 vet visit and exam fees, so as far as I'm concerned, those are instant savings. When I purchased a 6 month supply of Advantix for my 70 lb. dog at the vet's office, the medication alone cost me a whopping $90! At Petshed, however, it only costs $71.95 plus $5.00 shipping!

I do have one extremely important aspect to mention, though. You must, and I can't emphasize this enough, do your research on the medication you are ordering. I will use Heartgard as an example. Since I have given my dog Heartgard regularly since the first time she went to the vet, I have no problem ordering more of it from Petshed; however, for those of you who have either never had their dog tested for heartworms, or who have not had Heartgard previously prescribed to the dog by a vet, or who have not administered Heartgard on a regular monthly basis as prescribed, you must think twice before ordering from Petshed. Administering Heartgard to a dog that already has heartworms can be extremely fatal. There is good reason that a prescription is required in the states in order to acquire this medication, and others, so please keep that in mind, and use good judgment.

Remember, this is only one example of what I know about one medication. I suggest only ordering meds from this site that have already been prescribed to your dog, and that you have been administering regularly without fail. Other medications have their risks, too. For example, Advantix Flea & Tick can kill certain breeds, like Collies, so Interceptor must be prescribed instead. There are so many things we don't know about these common medications, so do your research first!

With that being said, I have been ordering Advantix and Heartgard from this site for the past year, and it is totally legit. I would recommend it to anyone, but with the caution I mentioned above. Either way, always be sure to do what's best for your animal friends, and keep their health first and foremost in your decision-making!

Looking to Make a Little Extra Cash?

2009-10-16T01:14:00.006-04:00

For the past few years, I have thoroughly enjoyed working from home. The only problem is, once the economy went south, so did my business. I used to manage websites for people (product management, customer emails, mass email marketing, graphic design, ad campaigns, writing copy, etc.) but as they began cutting back on unnecessary expenses, they all of a sudden found the time to manage their own sites! FAIL...

So, ever since then, I have always kept an eye out for legitimate opportunities to work from home, and truly legitimate ones not easy to find. I find plenty of work at freelance websites, but this new site I recently discovered offers something for those who fall between computer expert and total novice.

LiveWork, a free-to-use site for people looking for employment, and vice-versa, acts as a middle-man for things like applying to jobs, and ensuring payments (which are done via Paypal, by the way). After checking it out, I have to say I really liked the concept, so I signed up and applied for one of their positions to see how it all works.

In a nutshell, teams of people go through massive lists of questions and write answers for them for Ask.com's equivalent to "WikiAnswers" or "Yahoo!Answers." They are hiring hundreds of people to do this, and it's not only limited to Ask.com. I've seen positions on there for Dictionary.com, too, and I'm sure there are more. This particular position pays $0.28 per question answered. You must answer a minimum of 100 questions per week, and you are allowed to answer as many as you want beyond that. I figure if I answered 50 questions a day, 6 days a week, I could easily earn another $85 per week.

There are also opportunities to become a "Provider." I have not pursued this because you must be accepted, take a little class, then go through background checks, credit checks, etc. but from what I understand, you are basically just a project manager. For example, if I were a "provider," I would be the person trying to recruit people to answer Ask.com questions, training them, overseeing them, keeping them updated, setting deadlines, paying them, etc. People in these positions earn anywhere from 1% to 10% of the revenue their team earns, which could add up to a lot of money. My team alone is expected to answer 15,000 questions this week. If each answer pays $0.28, then the total revenue would come to $4,200. One percent of that is $42, which is crap really, but 10% is $420, and that sounds nice!

There are other positions you can apply for on LiveWork right now, too, but not very many. That is my main disappointment with the site thus far. There is such a limited selection of positions available, and the ones that are easy to get pay very little. It is still in beta, so it's possible that it could grow into something more successful. It's great, though, if you're looking for something supplemental, and I'm sure that better jobs come through there often.

April vs. Office Depot

2009-10-09T19:04:00.023-04:00

As I stated in a previous post, I purchased a Toshiba Satellite P205D-S7454 from Office Depot in December of 2007. Luckily, I also purchased the extended, two-year Performance Protection Plan.

After having to send it in three times within a four month period for the same problem, and having the hard drive replaced each time, I was fed up. I have earned bit of a reputation for handling customer service resolution issues fairly well. I do not stop until I receive a reasonable resolution, and that is what this post is all about. I will explain how I handled Office Depot's attempt to squirm out of their lemon replacement policy, and how you can use the same tactics to get what you want from any corporation that has wronged you, or is attempting to wrong you.

Office Depot's Performance Protection Plan states that if you send in a PC for the same repair three times, that the upon the fourth occurrence, they consider it a lemon, and will issue a replacement gift card in the amount at which you originally purchased the lemon. When I called to report the fourth occurrence, the warranty department attempted to tell me that only two repairs had been made, and the third one "didn't count" because it was put through a different claim system than the other two.

After arguing for a while that the claims system, which is out of my control, is irrelevant to me, and that I fully expect them to replace my laptop, I realized I had exhausted this avenue of problem resolution and hung up with them. Remember, you always want to exhaust the standard customer service resources before moving to more aggressive tactics. I spoke with various agents and supervisors before reaching this point. Most importantly, in any stage of the game, never, ever begin swearing or making threats. It will almost always get you nowhere.

My next step was to go to the top. Not the next level up, but to the top. I went to Office Depot's website and located the names of CEO's, Presidents, Vice Presidents, and their Executive Customer Service department. I learned that their standard email format was firstname.lastname@officedepot.com. When I sent my mass email to the executives, I knew to use this format to ensure the appropriate people received it.

I then constructed a professionally-written email. This part is important, as you want to accomplish three main goals:

Explain the history and problem in detail, including dates, product numbers, invoice numbers, etc. In my case, I listed the dates my laptop was sent in, claim numbers, and what repairs took place. Try to keep it as unemotional as possible.
Describe what you feel is a fair resolution. This is where you can let a little emotion fly. I told them I was infuriated, disappointed, etc. Let them know how you feel! Then explain what it is you want, and be sure it is a reasonable request. In my case, I only asked them to live up to what their contract promised - a gift card for the original purchase amount of my laptop so I can purchase a new one of my choice.
Finish with what you plan to do if your resolution is not met. Give them a deadline. I told them if I did not hear back from them within one week, I would seek further help from consumer protection agencies, the Better Business Bureau, etc.

It is also beneficial to prove or explain to them that it will end up costing them less money in the long run to resolve your issue. In my case, they had paid to ship my computer six times, replaced three hard drives and the screen frame, and were looking at another hard drive replacement and two more shipping fees. Corporations are out to make money. If you can show them it is more cost effective to resolve your problem and get rid of you, then you will most always get your way.

Within less than 3 hours of sending my email to the entire executive staff of Office Depot, I received a response from the Senior Customer Relations Manager of the Executive Customer Relations department. What was most impressive was that I sent it at 5:40 p.m. on a Friday night, and received a response at 8:20 p.m. the same evening. She informed me she received my email and that someone would contact me by Monday. It was a courtesy email that indicated I was about to receive the customer service I should have gotten since day one.

By Sunday, the issue had been resolved. I was promised a replacement gift card, and I received the box to ship back the faulty computer within a few days. Sometimes, all it takes is to get to the right person. Large corporations, however, tend to make this very difficult. With this more aggressive tactic, you should find success in most of your customer resolution battles.

If you would like to view my email to Office Depot, click here.

My Toshiba Satellite P205D-S7454 And Me

2009-10-07T18:58:00.005-04:00

I purchased my Toshiba Satellite P205D-S7454 in December of 2007 at a discounted price of $950. It seemed like a nice laptop (as I would expect it to, for that price), and I was excited to try it out. It came with a built-in webcam, 2 GB RAM, AMD Turion 64 x2 Mobile Technology processor, and 160 GB hard drive. Although I thought the hard drive could've been bigger, I was especially happy with the whisper-quiet processor. I've never had a laptop as quiet as this one. The crystal clear 17" wide screen was also really nice... until I touched it. I swear if you touch it once, it has a fingerprint cloning mechanism built in, to ensure symmetrical fingerprint smearing, which in-turn ensures maximum fingerprint visibility in the right lighting.

These were pretty much the only minor issues I had with the laptop. Otherwise, I loved it! I used it with great ease (for the most part) for about a year... and then all hell broke loose. One day, in the middle of uploading a very important video to YouTube (something to do with my dog's tendency to push her butt as high in the air as possible when she wants to play), the screen just went black. Just like that! No warning, no valid reasoning, and it didn't actually shut down. It just froze into an oblivion of unexplainable darkness. "Heh..." I thought, as I performed a hard reboot, seeing as how I had no choice in the matter. I resumed my "work" and forgot all about it.

Fast forward to today. Since that day, this laptop has been sent in three times, had the hard drive replaced every single time, and still has the same problem. I won't be surprised if it shuts down in the middle of my writing this blog! What's more, if you look at CNET's review of this pc, other customers have complained about the same thing (which makes it even more frustrating that I had to convince Office Depot's warranty department that this laptop is a lemon).

In any case, without that major glitch, I'd say the Toshiba Satellite P205D-S7454 was a great pc for what I needed it to do. I often have multiple tabs open, along with six or seven different programs running at the same time, and it rarely had memory or processing issues. Believe it or not, I would buy another one like it!

Oh, and in case you were wondering, it did not shut off while in the middl