Insurance Quotes

With gas prices head through the roof, a site like Insurance 1 might just be able to help you save a little money on your car insurance. Here's how it works, you head over to the site, fill out the questionnaire which starts with your zip code and provides a summary of your life to the insurance companies, press proceed, and Insurance 1 provides you with a list of insurance quotes that are available in your area. It's as easy as that, you can find out if there are any better rates on your auto insurance. Maybe you'll be able to afford gas this summer :)

The site is clean and easy to use, so there won't be any problems figuring out how it works.

Lenovo (I know it's off topic)

I know this may be a bit off topic, but this has to be one of the best slaps in the face that I've seen in a while. Lenovo may be entering the market after the "Thin Macbook" but, it's not all that thin if you have to cart around a bunch of crap to use it. The video above had me rolling, so you have to check it out as well.

-Enjoy

"The" Art Gallery?

I just browsed the Park West Gallery website and I must say that I was impressed by what I saw. Not that I'm a huge art buff or anything, but I still know what I like. And, by chance, Park West Galleries have some very interesting works of art that I wish I could own, some great pieces by Salvador Dali to drop one name. But there are quite a few other artist collections on the site that you should see for yourself. The basic layout is nice, searching the galleries is extremely easy, and the art is, well, very pleasing.

So, if you're an art buff, head over and see for yourself. You won't regret it.

-Enjoy

Cheap Futons

I've seen quite a few searches this month by people searching Google for cheap futons this month. In and of itself it's not a big deal, everyone wants the best price they can get. But, it is important to remember that a bargain today may be a mattress that needs replacing in a few years. Luckily all my mattresses have 5 year warranties, but be careful, there are a lot of cheap imitations on the market today.

Have fun browsing the site, don't hesitate to ask about any of the mattresses you see on or off the site. I'm always happy to help.

-Enjoy

Are you getting bogged down by spam?

Obviously I'm not talking about the ham in a can thing here, so let me get to the point of this post :)

AppRiver offers a great Linux spam filter service that safely removes up to 99% of all unwanted messages from your email stream through proprietary spam identification techniques. The service is available on a multi-platform server level to eliminate spam from exchange, groupwise, notes, linux, etc.

How does it work?

The AppRiver virus protection system can easily be installed in just one day. No hardware or software is required to implement the program, and installation only takes a simple change of MX records within your DNS for every domain which will use the spam filter service. A service they'll take care of for you. Sounds nice right, no more emails about ED or other hassles.

-Enjoy

Melted Collection

This completely blue collection is as extraordinary at first sight as it is after close inspection. From afar, the forms look strong, fluid and natural. Even though their bright blue skin is deeply contrasting, the objects are by form connected to whichever surface they rest on. This makes the alienating Melted Collection adapt and become part of their environment. From up close, we notice that the edges of these objects are deformed and melted. The slight gradient of colour that follows the natural curves of the material indicates that these objects were in fact baked to achieve their final forms.

Toupees and Wigs

When I was younger my older sister, Courtney, had cancer and had to have her head shaved due to the chemotherapy treatments that she had to go through. So, when I saw a site about non-surgical hair replacement for women I knew I had to give them a thumbs up. Hair Piece Toupee is an eCommerce site totally dedicated to hair pieces for men and women. Having seen how hard it can be, especially for women, to lose their hair, services like the ones provided by Hair Piece Toupee can really improve self esteem and make people feel better. Hair Piece Toupee has quite a lot of info on their site, and their prices were fairly reasonable for an, all human hair piece.

Check out the site, and if you have very long hair you could make a donation to an organization the next time you get your hair cut. You'll definitely make someones day.

-Enjoy

Massage Tables

Yesterday I had my first experience with a new type of furniture, a massage table. Noelle and I recently ordered a portable massage table in the hope that it would make giving a massage more comfortable and easier on the person giving the massage. Luckily we were right, we were now able to lie flat on the table without wrenching our necks, you know how that happens if you lie on a bed or sofa right?

If you don't get massages regularly, you need to find someone to give you a massage right now. Anyhow, the model we purchased was an entry level portable massage table with heating pad for $150. It arrives fully assembled and sets up rather quickly.

I was a bit nervous at first about the stability but my fears were unfounded. The table provided a solid surface, and was actually a pleasure to use.

Medical Wear

Scrubs & Beyond is an interesting store I found that carries a wide range of "Scrubs" or medical uniforms. Aside from some of the great options Scrubs & Beyond carries, dickies scrubs & cherokee medical scrubs, they've recently added a new line from Katherine Heigl. I think the new line looks great, not just because it's on a model but also because of the nice floral designs and the light colors. For me it captures the feel of Miami. That doesn't mean Scrubs & Beyond is only about light and floral, they also have a nice selection of very traditional Scrubs for both men and women like the ones offered by cherokee medical scrubs.

If you're in the medical field you might just enjoy a browse at Scrubs & Beyond. The layout is nice, navigation is easy, and the prices aren't too bad either. So head over and

-Enjoy

Today I noticed I got Sitelinks!

It appears that Goodnight Moon Futon has finally been accepted by Google, at least in one sense. Google finally gave the site "sitelinks" in the Google Search Results for the term "Goodnight Moon Futon". It would be better to be on the first page for the tern "futon", but hey, it's a start!


-Enjoy

Luxury Apartments

I just checked out a site with a Bucknell Apartment listing and I must say that I was impressed. Just look at the images above, the apartment looks awesome. Hardwood floors, modern amenities, they have what most people are looking for. The listing site is called Lewisburg Luxury Rentals, their listings are located in Lewisburg Pennsylvania, mostly in the area surrounding Bucknell University and downtown Lewisburg.

All of the apartments at Lewisburg Luxury Rentals contain the followingL

Chef's Kitchen, Beautiful Wood Floors, Kohler Fixtures, Radiant-heated Bathroom Floors, Central Heating and Cooling, In-unit Laundry Facilities, and Energy-saving Design

Sounds nice, no? Head over and check out the other images in the gallery, I think you'll be impressed. Or Jealous :)

-Enjoy

Ray Lamp

Ray is a lamp, which has the capability to follow its owner on his/her heel. The cable of a hanging lamp is prolonged by 12 metres, thus enabling Ray to become a lying, hanging, or atmospheric lamp. The possibilities for using the device are unlimited, adapting to any method of playful arrangement. Think about all the things you could do with a lamp like that!

-Enjoy

Need a security system?

If you do, you may want to visit ITPlanet, a security surveillance system dealer. ITPlanet has a wide selection of security product options available for any space. Products that would be suitable for a home or business on almost any budget. And, ITPlanet has the whole operation covered, whether you need cameras, digital recorders, access control cards & panels, infrared Illuminators, motion detectors, mounts and complete systems. Phew, that was a lot to type, but its not even half the selection.

You might not even want this system for security. For instance, last year Noelle's grandmother, Marie, lived with us. She was a high fall risk and we needed to be able to check in on her at night to make sure she was all right. The problem, however, was that often she would hear us coming to check on her and it would wake her up. So, we bought a wireless camera, so we could check in on her without disturbing her at night.


Thus, we had the comfort of knowing that Marie was safe and sound, and Marie could sleep without being disturbed by our checking in. Everyone wins in a situation like that.

-Enjoy

Sectional Sofa

The Sophia Sectional Sofa is the only UPS-able sectional sofa that I have ever seen. It's also the only one I carry on the site! Modern, minimal styles and the ability to fit through any, and I mean any, doorway make the Sophia a totally unique piece of furniture. Check it out and,

-Enjoy

Is your warehouse a mess?

I worked for a furniture company in Western Massachusetts that had a warehouse that was totally out of wack quite a bit of the time. Part of the reason that they couldn't get it together was the fact that no one in the store wanted to learn a point of sale inventory system. They'd rather write down the sale, get the cash and move on to the next customer, and it didn't even matter if the item was in stock or not. They just didn't care.

What that that did was really screw up the warehouse. They really could have benefited from some supply chain management software for their inventory. Cadre Technologies has quite a few programs that can help many businesses get their front and back ends in synch and back on track. No more angry customers or warehouse workers. So, if your business could use a little tightening up, head over to Cadre Technologies. Their site is easy to navigate and info is easy to find. I'm sure they have the right plan for you and your business.

-Enjoy

Is Google just kicking the bees nest?

For the past couple weeks webmasters all over the world (maybe not all of them) have been in a tizzy over a predicted update to the Google algorithm and potential update to the PR toolbar. Webmasters are very focused on their pagerank, and the uncertainty of the update has gotten quite a few of them all worked up with nothing to do about it.

Ok, that's not really true. What they should be doing is focusing on their site content. So, even though I doubt my blog is a destination for many webmasters, I'd still like to recommend constant writing or updating. PR doesn't do anything for traffic, just bragging rights. :)

Now, get too it!

Are your windows bare?

If so, you'll find some great affordable custom blinds at NoBrainerBlinds. NoBrainerBlinds has a great selection of Cellular, faux wood, roman, vertical, and solar shades. They also carry plantation shutters which I thought was pretty boss. For those of you who aren't familiar with plantation shutters here's a brief explanation. Plantation shutter are shutters (in case you hadn't guessed) that are attached to the inside of your window. Usually they only cover the bottom of the window giving you privacy and light at the same time. Plush, I think they look pretty nice as well.

The NoBrainerBlinds website has a simple design that's easy on the eyes, and their products seem fairly easy on the wallet. So, head over and take a browse.

-Enjoy

Have a great weekend everyone!

I'm almost done for the day and I'll be out of the office tomorrow for a full day of aikido and kenjutsu. The weekend in Western Massachusetts is supposed to be beautiful, so everyone has to shut off their computers or TV's and do something outside. Even if it's just sit there. I plan on taking my dog Jay for a couple long walks while the temperature is still bearable.

-Enjoy your weekend!

Teamwork in the Workplace?!

As sad as that is, often times that's a serious statement that a lot of people make regarding their workplace. At my last job everyone, and I do mean everyone, had great impressions of the two owners and often there was a large rift between the store staff and the grunts, like myself, that worked in the back of the house at the warehouse. Actually, there was an ongoing joke between the entire warehouse staff about everyone going to one of those teamwork seminars or some sort of management leadership training, not because it was a bad idea. No, it was because we could never see anyone that worked in the store actually "climbing over the wall" or well, any real physical activity.

I think they could take a few tips from Team Worx when it comes to having a workplace with some sense of equality or team work. Team Worx appears to have several programs, some for general staff and others for management. I bet a seminar could be fun, but it might not be everyones cup of tea. Check it out and have fun.

Wannabe, temporary table

The Wannabe is perfect for anyone getting ready for a big move. The designer, llot llov describes the Wannabe as such:

It's a piece of metal to be folded around a cardboard box. Very handy in the first days of moving into a new home until everything is settled- which always takes longer than one originally plans for.

Sounds handy for the times when your life gets disheveled after moving. Don't you think?

-Enjoy

Web Hosting

Here's a great offer I just found over at Concentric, a company that has some great shared web site hosting options. Now for the great offer, your first 30 days of web hosting over at Concentric are free. There are no setup fees, all you need to know is your domain name, password, and the billing option you want to choose when your 30 free trial is up.

As far as the plans at Concentric go, it looks pretty standard. You have plans of varying bandwidth, emails, and additional features available. But, also as usual, the price goes up as features are added. But if you didn't know that, well, you're a fool!

Webmaster Tools

Today I checked out my stats for Goodnight Moon Futon and I must admit that I am alway amused by the top search results for the site. For instance, this week one of the top results was the search term "Matt and Noelle". Theres only one instance of that term anywhere on my site, so it's interesting that it would appear in the results. On another note, it turns out that there is another couple named Matt & Noelle, do a search and you can see their wedding pictures. Congrats by the way. ;)

It's a window treatment day!

Today I've been a little focused on curtains and drapes, just in case you didn't notice. So, here's a quick heads up on The Curtain Shop Online, purveyors of a fine selection of curtains, window treatments, and bedding. The Curtain Shop Online offers free shipping on orders over $100, so it actually pays to purchase more this time. Their site looks pretty sharp, for a Yahoo store, and has that boutique quality that a furnishing site should have. The selection looks extensive, with various styles of drapes and curtains to choose from, not too mention all the matching bedding to go along with them. In fact, you could set up your entire accent scheme by heading over to The Curtain Shop Online and spending a couple hours thinking about what goes in your space.

-Enjoy

Best of the Valley?

It that time of year again when our local free paper, The Valley Advocate puts out it's list of the best places for everything in the Pioneer Valley. As I thumbed through the pages I noticed all the regulars, the businesses that have been in the number one spots for the past five or six years. But wait, aren't a lot of the best businesses in the valley hefty advertisers in the Valley Advocate? Hmm, I think so. I wonder if having a higher advertising budget could influence your standings in the best of the Valley "poll" that the Advocate throws every year to give a little back to it's money makers.

Maybe, what do you think? Feel free to let me know.

-Enjoy

Organic Tea & Supplements

After last night, I have been in need of some serious relaxation and rest. One thing I enjoy when I feel in need of a little recovery is a nice hot glass of tea, like the ones offered by Organic India. Organic India has quite an extensive selection, organic tea & coffee to fiber supplements can all be found. Organic India also has a great goal intertwined in their business practices:

• To provide our customers worldwide with exceptional quality organic foods and health products.


• To introduce a unique and successful business modality that is committed to service, sanctity and integrity and therefore harms no one and benefits all.


• To support natural sustainable Organic Agriculture practices that serve, honor and protect Mother Nature.


• To support the livelihood and well-being of farmers and tribal wild crafters in rural India.

How many companies can say that they are promoting sustainable agriculture in India and paying a premium market rate to farmers. I wonder if any of the big coffee companies can? Probably not. So, if you have a craving for soothing organic tea and positive change, visit Organic India.

-Enjoy.

April Best Seller

So far this month the best selling mattress at Goodnight Moon Futon has to be the Premium Futon. The Premium is a great all around futon mattress, it performs equally well as a bed or a sofa and provides a medium firm support. The Premium is made in the US out of cotton batting and a double foam core for years of lasting support and durability.

Designer Curtains

Here's a very nice Yahoo Store selling inexpensive custom curtains. The fabrics on Contempo Curtains look really nice. The Contempo Curtains website has a nice boutique design and feel, with pleasing fonts & a minimal design. There prices aren't too shabby either, a nice floral pattern starts at $49 per panel. That's not too much when you stop to think about how much the fabric costs if you were going to make you own curtains. Plus, it's a whole lot easier to have someone else do the work for you. All in all I liked what Contempo Curtains had to offer and would recommend you take a browse over there to see the selection for yourself.

-Enjoy

Russian Beer & Cranium!

Last night Noelle's sister, Bailey, can home for the weekend from Northeastern and we had a bit of a celebration. Obviously we played the board game Cranium, it wouldn't be in the post title otherwise. :)



For those of you who haven't played Cranium before, you need to find three friends and play tonight. You play in pairs and tasks are selected for your team to complete before you can advance. Categories cover four different skill sets: data, spelling, acting, and drawing with tasks that have to be completed in various ways. Examples include drawing with your eyes closed and spelling words backwards. Great fun!



Now lets discuss Baltika Beer. Baltika has to be one of the strangest things I've seen in quite a while, well, until I checked out their website this morning. Our Baltika of choice is their lager, which coincidently, is packaged in two liter plastic bottles. WAIT! Don't back out of the blog just yet! I know what you're thinking, "Plastic Beer Bottles?" Well I was skeptical as well when I first saw one, but then I saw that the whole bottle only cost $2.60! The beer itself was pretty good, not too dark or light with a nice flavor. And don't worry, you don't have to drink it out of a plastic bottle, we used pints. Which averaged out to about 70 cents a pint. So, give it a shot.

-Enjoy

Latest From My 3gb Group

Last week I followed a link to join 3gb community 3gb.biz, a new online social network and I wanted to give everyone a quick review as to how I have used their services to this point. Let me preface this statement by saying that I may be one of the worst social network participants in the history of the internet. Even though it's a social network I am definitely an anti-social lurker for the most part. So, this week I checked out the Blogger group I'm a part of over at 3gb and it's growing! This is very exciting, I posted a quick hello to the group (a big step for me) and put out a couple links. Hopefully I'll get a couple visitors.

Head over yourself and check out the cool services that 3gb has to offer. Their a social network the doesn't cram a bunch of ad's down your throat.

-Enjoy

Stickey Virus

Via Bergmans:

It clings to anything it touches: Objects, buildings, people, everything can be infected. The Sticky Virus has a great impact and spreading power. Especially at parties and other special occasions, people seem to be very vulnerable. Individuals are known to proudly display their infections, causing jealousy amongst uninfected bystanders. This allows the virus to rapidly spread through all willing subjects.

Stickey Virus

My First Impression of Answering Services

So, in the past week or so I've been looking at some Answering Services to see if they were right for my business. One that I saw and really liked was MAP Communications. MAP Communications has been around since 1991, so they must have a fairly solid track record. MAP Communications is also employee own, which in my mind speaks volumes about the mission of the company. Employee's of a company with profit sharing usually work that much harder and care more about their work. It's not just some greedy CEO that's makes out when the employee's bust their humps. Hmm, maybe I should forward this to my old employer ;)

Another feature that I really got into was the Answering Services call center free 7-day trial. The free trial is designed to be a no pressure, no obligation evaluation of their services. Sounds great, right. You'll actually get to see if your customer service needs are being met without a dime spent. This feature will definitely give you a chance to get familiar with the system and confirm that it will meet your expectations.

Lastly, but definitely not least is the fact that MAP Communications actually has facilities in the US. How many times have you experienced difficulty dealing with a call center in India or some other far away land? Now, you might not have too.

Check it out.

Big Mama Bean Bag Chair!?

The Big Mama is totally unique. At first I didn't really go for the look of the whole thing, it's not too attractive to be shaped like a giant tube sock, but I warmed up to the idea after thinking about how comfy it must be.

Via Designer:

With her soothing soft features, the Mama Virus lures in all weary beings that lack rest and comfort. However, once embraced by the Mama Virus, it takes some willpower to escape from its relaxing lobes.

-Enjoy

Pro's & Cons of Credit Cards

Everyone has questions about the specific terms on their credit cards from time to time, and here's a great link to a page with credit card tips. Free Credit Score Online is an interesting site with a wealth of information related to common credit card questions. Questions about paying your taxes with your credit card, rebates, balance transfers and more are covered & answered at Free Credit Score Online.

Some of this info you could probably get through your credit card company, but that usually entails sitting on hold and waiting for the next representative. Your call will probably include a sale pitch as well. Which is why a third party may be a little more convenient and timely. Here's some additional info from Free Credit Score Online:

Nowadays you can meet credit card offers everywhere. They offer different rewards, such as cash back, airmiles, hotel rewards, fee free, law rate, etc. But when you take up all those wonderful offers, you will realize that your interest rate is very high. Thus, now you need to search for balance transfer plastics.
Thus, you need to lower your interest payments by transferring your credit card balance to another plastic. The fact is that it is the one of the easiest ways of reducing your credit card costs. To do this, you are to look for the best plastics. Search for things like low rate, no annual fee, rewards. When choosing be sure that you understand all the terms and conditions of your new plastic to avoid different problems in the future.
However, do you really want to change your current plastic? Think about it. If not, simply ask for lower interest rates. Tell your credit company that you have found another plastic with better interest rates and you will transfer your credit card balance if your company can't lower your rates.
By transferring your current balance to another credit card with lower interest rates, you can save a lot of money on interest. So, compare different balance transfer credit card offers and choose a card with the most beneficial features and terms.

Green Browser

Yesterday was Earth Day (in case you didn't know), and to celebrate Flock has released their new Eco Browser. The Flock Eco Browsers is 100% free and comes preloaded with daily news feeds from Treehugger, National Geographic, and Planet Green just to name a few. The browser looks pretty slick, and it promotes green living.

Check it out and do your part today.

-Enjoy

The Wick Effect

Today I'm cleaning out all the brush from my yard after the winter, and I decided to burn my brush pile this year. Well, because of all the leaves I had at the bottom of the pile I'm experiencing the wick effect. Here's how it works, all the leaves from last fall are all wet and compact from all the snow, and as such they are smoldering slowly, creating a lot of smoke and little fire. Two years ago I had a similar scenario burning a brush pile and the pile smoldered for almost two or three days.

So, how long do you think this pile will smolder? Leave a comment and let me know what you think.

-Enjoy

Credit Issues Anyone?

With the housing market taking a dive, and foreclosures on the rise bad credit credit cards & bad credit loans are increasing in popularity. That's where BadCreditOffers.com comes into the picture. BadCreditOffers.com is a leading comparison website for people with bad credit -- featuring credit cards, home loans, auto loans, personal loans, and much more.

So, if you've found yourself with less than perfect credit you may want to check out your options.

I just got inspired!

Though I'm only thirty, I was tonight inspired by a post I read over at Conntected Internet about retiring out of the country. I think the idea sounds great, I mean who wouldn't want to retire to a tropical beach in their latter years? I don't think I can name one person.

That in turn triggered a little deeper thinking about what people want. It almost seems as though the American dream has started to lean toward leaving America when it's time to retire. Not that I find the idea wrong, just an observation. I guess that natural though, who wants to retire to, I don't know, Duluth or Coffeyville Kansas? I'm sure you're all headed to Google to search that one. :)

But don't forget that moving to a new country has to be a lot of work. You have a new language to learn, drive on the opposite side of the road, and probably get a lot of shots. So, where would you all like to move on your dream retirement? I'd love to know.

Embarrassing Moments

Everyone has an embarrassing moment like the one shown above, but sometimes it's best not to hide in your shell like Gulf oysters. Speaking of oysters, did you know that provide a low calorie protein that are an excellent source of zinc, vitamin B-12, and omega-3 fatty acid. Well, if you're looking for more info on Oysters, head over to Be Oyster Aware and read up on the risks and benefits to eating oysters.

Twin Chairs

Inspired by a tree trunk, the clever Twin chairs by Euga Design offer an interesting combination of stackability and Yin/Yang-type unity. Made from oak scraps and veneers (and built from resource-efficient bent ply). When not in use as a chair, the hollow bottoms create a sneaky little storage space; when stacked, it looks like something that we'd like to hug. Truely a stunning design.

-Enjoy

Grandfather Clocks

One thing I don't see very often anymore are grandfather clocks. And there was a time when they were very common place. I remember my grandparents on my dad's side of the family used to have an old grandfather clock in their home. Just thinking about that clock brings a rush of memories from when I was younger, visiting their home, sitting by the fire and always in the background was the ticking of the clock. Their grandfather Clock had a pleasing tone that would sound on the quarter hours.


Now, if I were to choose a Grandfather Clock I would definitely go for a more minimalist style. Such as the one pictured above, I prefer a clean look that's not overly elaborate. I found the clock above in the Howard Miller Collection at 1-800-4CLOCKS. I was really impressed with their selection of all things related to keeping time, but the grandfather clocks are what really jumped out at me. The 1-800-4CLOCKS site has lots of info on their site, and if you found my grandfather clock choice a little boring, the have clocks that are, well, more grand. Clocks with more intricate woodwork and glass detail as well as modern and contemporary grandfather clocks. You know, something for everyone and every taste.

If you want more info, visit their site and take a browse for yourself.

-Enjoy

Unique Sofa

When I saw this sofa over at Thingz I knew I had to do a blog post about it. The graceful curve, minimalist back, and matching round ottoman make the design work so well. I'm not sure if you noticed the legs, I think the minimal brushed metal legs also compliment this design quite well. If you're in Arizona, I would definitely check out the Thingz showroom, but be prepared for some sticker shock. I bet it ain't cheap.

2008 Elections

This year theres quite a bit at stake in the elections. As such I have been following the news closely, and today I found a site for John Fleming. Now, I'm not the type of guy that wants to endorse anyone or give advise on how to vote, but I must admit that I liked the layout of the campaign website for Dr John Fleming. On his site he describes himself as a Regan republican, and promotes fiscal responsibility (I though Regan ramped up the deficit) and promotes his faith. So, there's quite a bit of info on the John Fleming for congress site, I would recommend you use that info to make an educated decision this year when you vote.

But remember, all sites have an agenda, political sites maybe more so. So, take everything into account when you venture into the political battlefield of the internet.

As always,

-Enjoy.

More Japanese Baths

Takumi has once again out done themselves on this bath in North Seattle. The attention to detail is amazing. Everything looks so clean and crisp, I really dig that space.

-Enjoy

Credit card news

Here's a pretty cool link to some credit card news at Credit Card Guru. Credit Card Guru is a great blog with all the info you'll ever need to know about the credit card industry. Here's a quick press release from the site:

There is no doubt that everything in our society changes and nothing can be done with it. For example, do you remember what games you used to play in your childhood? Toy soldiers, teddy-bears, hide-and-seek… Today children are no longer into special games for kids. Children of the twenty first century want to grow up as fast as possible. Nowadays, children use the Internet, play different computer games and watch reality shows. When it comes to different plays, they make to believe brokers, credit card holders and creditors.
However, Monopoly is still popular with children. More than that, more and more money-oriented games appear on the toy market. Today children have many opportunities for intellectual and emotional growth. There are a lot of different games that can entertain children. But more and more kids prefer "adult" games to others. They play different games based on money and finance. Do you believe that these games are harmless for your kids?
Many children want to play credit card deals now. Is it the right time for teaching them the basics of credit card management? The fact is that when children play with plastics, they don't go into details concerning credit card use. They don't know when they should use a rewards credit card or when to get a balance transfer plastic. They wouldn't realize what type of credit cards is better. Actually, children don't need to know all the details of credit card use. However, don't miss the moment when your children turn into teens. And it will be the best time to teach your children the basics of money management.

Japanese Design

Have you noticed a theme this week? With my studies of Aikido and Ken-Jutsu back in full force my interest in Japanese design has also been piqued. And that's when I found Takumi and their beautiful work. This classically inspired living area in one of their projects is truly stunning. Just look at the detail on the drawers under the stairs and how great the fire pit in the center of the room looks. I don't know about any of my readers, but I could definitely live in a space like this? Let us know below:





-Enjoy

Free 7 Day Answering Service Trial!

As a small business owner I've seen quite a few Answering Services and haven't really paid that much attention. That's because I'm fairly small at the moment and don't a have the need yet. It's nice to have no overhead and be able to handle everything yourself :) Today though, MAP Communications caught my eye due to their seven day free trial of their answering services. Who wouldn't be into that? The services offered by MAP Communications are pretty comprehensive; toll-free, automated on call rosters, voice mail, live operator, call screening and many more services are offered.

MAP Communications also has design specialists who will help you integrate their services with your existing site. Their site has some great info as well, you can watch a demo call or introductory video to help answer any questions you may have. I also dig that MAP Communications is employee owned, it's great to see a company share the wealth with the staff that makes the whole thing happen. It must beat a Christmas bonus and cheap diner :)

The MAP Communications website looked pretty killer, I sure they put a lot of time and funds into having a professional web presence. Which I bet paid off, because it makes me have quite a bit of confidence in what they had to offer.

Check it out and,

-Enjoy

Japanese Bedroom

Here you can see a beautiful example of a Japanese style bedroom by Takumi. Notice how good the futon looks in a room where it was meant to go. And, it actually looks as though the owner is using it in a traditional manner by placing the futon mattress directly on the floor.

The room it self looks great was well, open and airy with a gorgeous post & beam construction. The Shoji screens play into the design as well, and compliment the natural look of the post & beam. Truly a beautiful space.

-Enjoy

Loans

Here's another site I found offering High Risk Personal Loans. Personal Loans Pros is an online company that specializes in, you guessed it, Personal Loans. Here's a quote from the site that will give, I feel, some pretty good insight on their mission:

Personal Loans Pros can offer you fast approvals, fast cash and will help you get your credit back on track. Right now is a good time to apply for personal loans with bad credit, interest rates are still low, and lenders are more lenient than ever.

The site looks legit and is easy to navigate. Info was in abundance and also easy to find. So, head over and check them out for yourself.

-Enjoy

Elliptical Japanese soaking bath

This Double seat stainless steel elliptical Japanese soaking bath by Diamond Spa's looks amazing. But, it also looks slightly misplaced at the bottom of those stairs like that. I mean, come on, all your heat is going to go right up the stairs :)

Still, I would love to own a bath like that, maybe after I make my millions off this blog :D

-Enjoy

Electric Heaters

I know this time of year most people don't think too much about their heating needs. But, this may be the perfect time to prepare for next winter. Since the price of heating oil is only going to climb higher, electic heaters may be a good way to supplement your oil home heat. That's where a company like Gas Heaters Online comes in to the picture. Gas Heaters Online has a large selection of of electric and (obviously) gas heaters for your home or workshop. The heaters themselves are available in a few designs, from industrial to faux fireplace. My teacher has a gas heater in his house and I must admit that I want one as well, if only I had the space. I could really see myself sitting and reading in front of a nice gas stove in the winter, that would be great.