Sensible Guides

We have received a question on how to deal with repair work that has become more lengthy than originally promised. Frustrating as it can be, here are a few tips to see if you can speed up the process without causing any unnecessary friction.

“My mechanic in California has had my car for over 2 years for a refurbishment/restoration. He rebuilt the engine a year and a half ago (it’s still on an engine hoist), but since paying him last year for all work to be performed he’s done nearly nothing to the car. Every month that I visit him he comes up with some excuse as to why there’s been no progress and then pushes out the completion date another six to eight weeks. I no longer believe that my car is a real priority nor do I believe the car will be completed in the foreseeable future.

How can I get him to complete the car as agreed to on the invoice and not anger him so as to compromise the work he has verbally guaranteed? “

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New years and resolutions often go hand in hand with getting fit, and joining a health club or a fitness centre is often the first thing we think of when we are ready for change. In fact making a commitment with a membership is a great motivator in reaching your fitness goals. Many memberships now feature on site spas, trainers and 24 hour access however make no mistake, they are costly.

There are literally thousands of health clubs all over the country and although most consumers are happy with their choices, others are not.  There are complaints lodged with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with many well known businesses detailing high pressure sales tactics, misrepresentation of services to impossible refund clauses.  And of course, the money lost when a club or spa goes out of business. Continue »

Too many automotive centers are taking advantage of the consumer’s lack of knowledge about their vehicles when it comes time for repairs. While there are many trustworthy shops that do honorable and reliable work, there are always places that are quick to take the consumer’s money while not making the necessary repairs.

The government, the press, Better Business Bureaus and other consumer rights advocates are working hard to intervene, and while some shops are getting caught and being indicted with fraud, too many are still under the radar and getting away with it. Continue »

Flowers will add color, beauty and inspiration to your home. Whether you buy them from your local florist, a grocery store or a farmers market, fresh cut flowers are an easy display that can transform any room. Their simple beauty has the ability add elegance to any occasion.

By taking the time to choose healthy flowers and arrange them properly, with care, you may be able to extend their life and enjoy them for much longer.

Here are a few helpful tips to get the most from your fresh cut flowers:

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Who can resist an adorable kitten? But before you fall head over heels, here are a few things for you to consider before you bring your new companion home.

Breed And Background Info

You now have many choices to make, from mixed to pure breeds and where to go to choose the right kitten for you. There are so many ways to get a new kitten, it can be a bit overwhelming. The classifieds are full of people selling or giving away new kittens; shelters abound with more cats than they can handle; and you have the boutiques and breeders ready to offer exotic breeds at a premium price. Continue »

If you have exhausted all non surgical treatments to help you stop snoring without much success, you and your doctor may determine that surgery could be your best option. There are several types of surgery available to correct this condition and many have very good results depending on where your problem lies.

The main goal of these surgeries are to decrease any obstructions in your air passages and enlarge your airways in order to increase airflow. With increased airflow, breathing is easier and snoring will decrease significantly if not be completely eliminated. Some may need more than one treatment and others can be a permanent repair. Continue »

The most essential tools we regularly reach for in the kitchen are knives of one sort or another. But how often do you have a good set of sharp knives handy? I’m betting it’s quite rare for many of you.

To the serious cooks, how often have you complained about your knife’s dullness or even promised yourself to sharpen it later. Too often to count? I thought so.

Sharpen The Dullness

Dull knifes are not only useless, but downright dangerous, especially to the casual and often careless cook. And you know who you are. I myself was guilty of slicing into a finger or two because I applied unusually hard pressure to a dull knife. And, it unpredictably gave way, slicing my finger. Continue »