It seems like no matter who you ask people tell you they don't like their internet/cable carrier... and for the most part I was reasonably happy with Comcast for our Cable and Internet bundle here in South Bend. Over my years I have had DSL and Cable internet and am well versed in the pros and cons.
Well at home we have been wondering if what we paid for cable was worth it. In our bedroom upstairs we have just used an antenna since we bought out house. We get the main networks and a few other channels and the picture is better HD than we get from Comcast on our TV downstairs.
So we thought, lets cut the cable and save money. Well the hangup was, if we only got one thing from Comcast we would lose the bundle discount. So to go from cable plus internet to just cable we would of only saved $15 a month... WOW. We could save $20 a month if we went with their slowest internet speed, but without cable would also require a service visit we had to pay to have them come and install filters to ensure we didn't get cable and just internet.
I did some research and found that if I went with AT&T DSL at their fastest speed we would save $50 a month... it was a no brainer and Operation Fire Comcast commenced. There were a couple hang ups and things I had to be sure fell into place during this tactical operation.
First was purchasing an antenna for the main floor TV. After some research and reviews I picked up a $24 antenna from RadioShack and it worked like a charm. NBC, ABC, CBS, Weather, CW, PBS, and a few other channels all come in crystal clear (full HD) and with surround sound (5.1 Digital)!
Second was getting DSL installed. Our phone lines were all cut, but we got it all wired up and had a live wire in our kitchen that I found. I got it configured and the speed tests at the same speed I was getting with Comcast. the downside is that I need to find a good place to mount my router since it has to be in the kitchen (until this spring when I can work to run lines through our crawl space under the addition).
While I was at it I took the time to rewire everything. We don't need a cable box now, so I moved all of our equipment (DVD, VCR and Receiver) under the TV and it is all tucked away nicely in our built in cabinet.
Today was the final manouver of Operation Fire Comcast. I took all the equipment back to Comcast and turned off my service. The lady at the desk tried to tell me she could see if she could get me a special deal... I told her don't bother, I asked the people on the phone if they were offering me the best deal... they said yes, so I moved on. Any last minute tactic from them on a lower price because they saw I was serious about leaving wasn't going to work now...
Well they owe me $43.11 for the month I paid for already. So I guess the final move in this Operation is in their court now... to send me a refund. I am sure they will do their best to nickel and dime me out of my money, but I am ready to fight for it!
So hopefully AT&T will work well.... so far it is good and the air TV reception even through the snow storm has been great. I do miss ESPN... but hey the savings are worth it, and there are better things I can do with my time.
12.15.2010
12.05.2010
Daddy Daughter Decorating
One item on my to do list with our house has been updating our light fixtures. Well with a baby on the way spending money on lights has taken a backseat to painting baby room, refinishing my childhood dresser (for the baby room), and assembling cribs and baby stuff.
Last weekend when putting up the Christmas tree we noticed that some of the lights in the living room chandelier were flickering. I started working on it and noticed the electrical connections were in bad shape, and the chandelier actually had some bad parts that should get fixed.
So I did some research... you always see the home shows when they paint old chandeliers and update a room. I found some info on concerting ours to match the rest of our oil rubbed bronze fixtures we got for the curtains. I found parts to fix the electrical connections and decided, lets rehab this old chandelier, and better yet it will be a Daddy Daughter Decorating project as a gift for Heather for Christmas.
I researched and found all the parts that I needed right here at my local Menards. We got Rustoleum Metallic Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint for $5 a can, all new candelabra sockets ($6 per pair), and new socket covers ($4 for 6). So in total I spent under $30 and I scored some wire, connectors and extra roll of electrical tape to round out project supplies.
This weekend Novali was here and we started the project. She was excited and really wanted to make it a surprise for Heather... but I think she would of noticed us sneaking around the house with a big chandelier so I told her it is the thought that counts and Heather will love it either way.
Saturday morning we popped off the chandelier, she held parts and handed me tools while we brought the light down. We took a break during the day and watch Toy Story 3 at IUSB and made time for shooting baskets (she is shooting now at 9.5 feet!).
In the afternoon it was back to work. She cleaned the chandelier while I figured out how we would wire up the new sockets and do the painting. Once it was cleaned and prepped for paint we hung it up in the basement. I got a little paint trigger so it would be easier for her to paint and she was a champ at painting and learning how to spray surfaces.
We did a few coats of paint and in between worked on the electrical connections. I explained electrical connections to her. We had to make pigtails that we would hook up to the new socket and twist wire connect the pigtails to the wires from the chandelier for each candelabra. She cut the wires to the right length and stripped them for me. I took the stripped wires and put the connectors on the end to clip into the socket bases. It was a nice little assembly line. Then she helped connect the wires to the socket bases.
We needed more paint at night so we had to wait until the morning to finish the electrical. After she went to bed I did some prep on the lights and cut the old socket bases out and prepped the wires to get connected.
In the morning we made quick work of the connectors. She screwed on the socket bases, then we put the twist connections on and taped them into the socket base. Then we slide the socket covers on and got ready to get her hug back up. We tested it and it all worked! So we got it mounted up, tossed a big Christmas bow on it and presented it to Heather... Merry Christmas!
So Novali really likes trying to help me do stuff... she even then wanted to help me change the wheels on Heather's car. I got her a set of snow tires on a used set of rims for a steal on craigslist. So I needed to swap out the wheels and it was cold out... but she toughed it out with me (well mostly) and helped get the wheels off and changed on the Jetta. Novali might be a good future crew for Team PLP... Now Heather and Lemon are rolling on some super grippy snow tires!
I posted more pictures and descriptions: Daddy Daughter Decorating (and pit crew)
Last weekend when putting up the Christmas tree we noticed that some of the lights in the living room chandelier were flickering. I started working on it and noticed the electrical connections were in bad shape, and the chandelier actually had some bad parts that should get fixed.
So I did some research... you always see the home shows when they paint old chandeliers and update a room. I found some info on concerting ours to match the rest of our oil rubbed bronze fixtures we got for the curtains. I found parts to fix the electrical connections and decided, lets rehab this old chandelier, and better yet it will be a Daddy Daughter Decorating project as a gift for Heather for Christmas.
 Before |
I researched and found all the parts that I needed right here at my local Menards. We got Rustoleum Metallic Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint for $5 a can, all new candelabra sockets ($6 per pair), and new socket covers ($4 for 6). So in total I spent under $30 and I scored some wire, connectors and extra roll of electrical tape to round out project supplies.
This weekend Novali was here and we started the project. She was excited and really wanted to make it a surprise for Heather... but I think she would of noticed us sneaking around the house with a big chandelier so I told her it is the thought that counts and Heather will love it either way.
Saturday morning we popped off the chandelier, she held parts and handed me tools while we brought the light down. We took a break during the day and watch Toy Story 3 at IUSB and made time for shooting baskets (she is shooting now at 9.5 feet!).
In the afternoon it was back to work. She cleaned the chandelier while I figured out how we would wire up the new sockets and do the painting. Once it was cleaned and prepped for paint we hung it up in the basement. I got a little paint trigger so it would be easier for her to paint and she was a champ at painting and learning how to spray surfaces.
We did a few coats of paint and in between worked on the electrical connections. I explained electrical connections to her. We had to make pigtails that we would hook up to the new socket and twist wire connect the pigtails to the wires from the chandelier for each candelabra. She cut the wires to the right length and stripped them for me. I took the stripped wires and put the connectors on the end to clip into the socket bases. It was a nice little assembly line. Then she helped connect the wires to the socket bases.
We needed more paint at night so we had to wait until the morning to finish the electrical. After she went to bed I did some prep on the lights and cut the old socket bases out and prepped the wires to get connected.
In the morning we made quick work of the connectors. She screwed on the socket bases, then we put the twist connections on and taped them into the socket base. Then we slide the socket covers on and got ready to get her hug back up. We tested it and it all worked! So we got it mounted up, tossed a big Christmas bow on it and presented it to Heather... Merry Christmas!
 After |
So Novali really likes trying to help me do stuff... she even then wanted to help me change the wheels on Heather's car. I got her a set of snow tires on a used set of rims for a steal on craigslist. So I needed to swap out the wheels and it was cold out... but she toughed it out with me (well mostly) and helped get the wheels off and changed on the Jetta. Novali might be a good future crew for Team PLP... Now Heather and Lemon are rolling on some super grippy snow tires!
I posted more pictures and descriptions: Daddy Daughter Decorating (and pit crew)
11.28.2010
Thanksgiving Deals by Sam
So this past weekend was the big shopping weekend... In the past I have done the crazy Black Friday deals, gotten up early, fought crowds and got mad over deals lost, and excited over some good deals.
This year, with a baby on the way, and my new frugal (well trying to be) self had no plans on hitting up the morning sales. Most of the deals are on stuff I don't need, and regardless of how much you "save" you still have to spend money and extra money. That is the part people forget... yes you are saving, but really you save more by just not spending at all.
Now I am not saying that we didn't buy anything this weekend... but we were more careful, and were sure that things we bought, we really "needed". So here is a recap of my fun special buys for the special holiday shopping.
Ladder - scored a good deal on a ladder at Lowe's. I know, exciting right! Well it really was, because the one I bought (online - ship to store) the store didn't have in stock. So they upgraded me to the next up in weight rating. So I got a $67 ladder, for $19 (the original sale ladder was $53) so I really got a deal!
Shoe Tree - Last year I got a few shoe trees and really love them. So I wanted two more, and have been waiting for a good sale on some. This weekend Men's Warehouse had their nice ones for buy one get one. Now theirs normally sell for $14.99 and are nice, the cheaper no name brand ones from Meijer are regular price for $9.99 (not as nice). So this way, I got the nice ones for $7.50 each pair. Can't beat that! (better still, I resisted buying another pair... despite it being a good deal, I don't need to spend on more).
Tools - yep... I like tools. Well I try to buy them when they are on sale, not when I need them. That way I get them at a good price, not at whatever price they are when I need them. For my Z a few months ago I bought a Craftsman screw remover and the part was so rusted it broke the remover tool. I returned it for store credit (love Craftsman warranty). I saved the card until now, and this weekend they had the screw remover and bolt remover for 50% off. So I got both tools for the price I paid for one this summer. Score.
Mac Mini - so I used to be a MacAddict, I had it bad. I was the first person to own a iPod... had one in 2002, and got into Mac Laptops before every college kids begged for them for Xmas (actually most begged to not get one). Lately I have gotten way behind.... but the PowerBook (my old G4 ABook) that Heather has been using was on its last leg. So I started looking for a used Mac Mini, she doesn't need high power, but does need something more reliable, and something we can hook up back up drives for photos and video of the pending family addition. So I found one, with a broken superdrive (DVD burner)... but I can get an external one and we saved about $400!
So there it is folks... deals by Sam. Feel pretty good about the weekend. Did buy things like light bulbs, outdoor light strings, and little things like that... but held off on big frivolous items.
This year, with a baby on the way, and my new frugal (well trying to be) self had no plans on hitting up the morning sales. Most of the deals are on stuff I don't need, and regardless of how much you "save" you still have to spend money and extra money. That is the part people forget... yes you are saving, but really you save more by just not spending at all.
Now I am not saying that we didn't buy anything this weekend... but we were more careful, and were sure that things we bought, we really "needed". So here is a recap of my fun special buys for the special holiday shopping.
Ladder - scored a good deal on a ladder at Lowe's. I know, exciting right! Well it really was, because the one I bought (online - ship to store) the store didn't have in stock. So they upgraded me to the next up in weight rating. So I got a $67 ladder, for $19 (the original sale ladder was $53) so I really got a deal!
 |
 |
Tools - yep... I like tools. Well I try to buy them when they are on sale, not when I need them. That way I get them at a good price, not at whatever price they are when I need them. For my Z a few months ago I bought a Craftsman screw remover and the part was so rusted it broke the remover tool. I returned it for store credit (love Craftsman warranty). I saved the card until now, and this weekend they had the screw remover and bolt remover for 50% off. So I got both tools for the price I paid for one this summer. Score.
 |
Mac Mini - so I used to be a MacAddict, I had it bad. I was the first person to own a iPod... had one in 2002, and got into Mac Laptops before every college kids begged for them for Xmas (actually most begged to not get one). Lately I have gotten way behind.... but the PowerBook (my old G4 ABook) that Heather has been using was on its last leg. So I started looking for a used Mac Mini, she doesn't need high power, but does need something more reliable, and something we can hook up back up drives for photos and video of the pending family addition. So I found one, with a broken superdrive (DVD burner)... but I can get an external one and we saved about $400!
 |
So there it is folks... deals by Sam. Feel pretty good about the weekend. Did buy things like light bulbs, outdoor light strings, and little things like that... but held off on big frivolous items.
11.12.2010
Dear Nissan
Nissan Consumer Affairs
P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003
Dear Consumer Affairs,
I know that I have exhausted my options on this warranty item and a final decision has been rendered. I still feel I want to express formally how utterly disappointed I am in Nissan USA. As a valued customer for the past 8+ years I would have never expected this type of treatment. I wanted to outline my dissatisfaction with not only the final decision, but the process and how you handle the promotion of your extended “Service Agreement” as part of purchasing a Certified Nissan pre-owned vehicle.
I have been a loyal customer since my younger brother purchased a 1991 Nissan Stanza when I was in college. The car was a good lucking tank named George, ran proud and true and so when I was looking for a used car a few years later while I was in graduate school I stumbled into and purchased a 1991 NX 2000. It was not only a cheap dependable car but I eventually turned it into a second car and started using it for SCCA Autocross racing. There began my love for Nissan vehicles. My next car was a 2000 Sentra GXE that I purchased used from an economy lot of a Nissan dealer in Grand Rapids, MI. That car was a great vehicle and the first time I financed a car all on my own.
As I progressed in my career I got nicer vehicles. I sold my NX 2000 and eventually purchased a 2002 Nissan SpecV from a Nissan dealership in Jackson, MI. That car was purely an autocross car, I got a jacket and put Nissan patches on it and enjoyed being one of the few Nissans in my race class (which I would regularly win). Around the time I got my SpecV it was time to get more grown up and I purchased a 2005 (two years old) from a Nissan dealer in Battle Creek, MI. I searched and searched for a used Altima with a 5-speed because I like driving stick and that costs of ownership on a stick are lower (well usually).
Recently I sold my SpecV in exchange for a 1975 Datsun 280Z. Have you picked up on how much I have enjoyed my Nissan ownership experience? I wear Nismo hats, I am on all the Nissan online forums, and I even subscribe to Nissan Sport Magazine (I just renewed).
I have enjoyed having a certified Nissan car. I purchased it with the understanding that the car, with the exception of regular wear items, would be worry free until 100,000 miles or 5 years from purchased date. I know, and never complained when I needed tires, brakes, and other regular maintenance items needed to be done that were not covered.
My first concern was at around 40,000 miles (I purchased the car with 27,000 on the clock). In stop and go traffic in Chicago the clutch pedal went limp. I was able to pull up on it to shift gears and get off to the side of the road. I was preparing to call Nissan when I started the car again and it drove fine. I took it to the dealership right away, thinking the hydraulic fluid was over heating, or something went wrong. The dealership (Les Stanford in Jackson, MI) said nothing appears wrong with it. My issue was that it clearly was something wrong, and they told me when it did it again to let them know.
The issue came up again at about 60,000 miles. This time I took it to Gurley Leep in Mishawaka, IN. This is the dealership that had been servicing my SpecV and Altima and I was EXTREMELY pleased with them. They checked it out, of course the issue did not repeat itself, but I know that the issue happening caused wear on the clutch when the pedal failed. They helped cover some of the cost as they drained the fluid and upgraded the type of fluid used in the transmission.
The issue happened again about a month ago. Once again once I let the car cool down it went back to normal. To me that means the clutch cylinder or something else must be the problem causing it to lose hydraulic pressure. I took it to the dealership with that issue and some clunking in the front of the car. They could not reproduce the clutch issue (again) but did warranty some of the steering items.
Well three days after picking up the car… my clutch pedal felt weird, but it was not the same feeling as before though. The clutch was slipping. That never happened before, before it was the clutch pedal not having pressure. Luckily the car was drivable still so I brought in to the dealer the next day. Well by the time I got to the dealer with clutch was completely slipping.
Of course at this time is when the service manager at Gurley Leep says the clutch isn’t covered and quoted a price of $1280 with one clutch and $950 with a cheaper clutch. I was not in a negotiating mood, kept my cool in the service department and went outside for some fresh air. That is when I was approached by a salesman about buying a new Nissan. Normally I would have loved to chat cars, and about how my wife and I have discussed trading in her Jetta for a Murano this spring once we have our first child (expected Dec 30th). He told me to let him know if he can help with the service department, or if I want to trade the car in like it is. I told him I would contact him, but I wanted to contact Nissan customer service first about my warranty. (That evening I sent him an email, the following day he didn’t respond, and only called once I complained to the service guy that I thought I was blacklisted from the dealership now)
So the following day I called and started Report # 6983311 with (agent) who was very nice on the phone. He explained that my case was “worth investigating” and I could expect a 24 hour response from a Regional Specialist. Here I thought, now I am getting somewhere. I did ask (agent) what would be a typical response, he explain it could be anywhere from covering the repair, to helping with the repair to not covering any of it. I explained my years with Nissan and he thanked me for being a loyal customer. I optimistically waited for the response.
I got a call from (Regional Specialist) from Consumer Affairs and promptly called her back. I was explained that because of the mileage on my car that they would not cover the repair. I explained about the miles on my certified warranty and about how I had taken the car in several times about clutch pedal pressure issues that would of clearly caused the clutch to go bad faster. She explained the decision was final. So I asked, “So I am stuck paying for this entire repair?” She then explained that the dealership told her they offered me a $300 discount on the repair. Which I explained to her was not true, they just offered me a lower quality part to be used instead. She told me she could do nothing but said they “care about my business”, to which I told her clearly you don’t. It is of course her job to refute that, she did, and I wasn’t going to argue so I told her have a good day and hung up.
My mother taught me that actions speak louder than words. My grandfather taught me that loyalty is the most valuable trait from a business. He was a small business owner and had a car repair and tire store. He taught me about business and how to treat people. He retired a successful business man because he knew that his word was all he had to show people and to earn their business. So he made his word count for something. So Nissan, I want to say that this is the most disappointing thing that you could have done. Your word from a dealer in selling me a car, to your word about standing behind your products, and your words of “valuing my business” mean nothing.
I called the dealership back. The service manager (who I know is working hard for me) was only able to get the repair down to $828 for me. Where is my $300 discount that I was supposed to get? A local recommended shop quoted me $750 to do the repair. So a place that doesn’t know anything about me is getting me a better deal than the company with whom I have spend thousands of dollars at for cars and service. Big Nissan, who values my business can’t beat this little local shops price?
The worst of this is… I never thought I would have to think about doing a safecar.gov posting about my dear Nissan. I didn’t think I would ever want to no longer where my Nissan jacket, or even contemplate selling my Datsun race car or give up on talking the wife into the 350Z summer car I have been wanting. I never thought I would be shopping for anything but a Nissan, and now I might be shopping for anything BUT a Nissan.
I know it doesn’t mean much now, because as your agent said this issue is finished, but you lost a costumer. Maybe you get these letters a lot, maybe business is so good you don’t care, but I am writing in the hopes that you do care. If you don’t, shame on you Nissan. Shame on you for losing a valuable customer.
Sincerely,
Sam Centellas
2005 Nissan Altima 2.5s
2002 Nissan SE-R SpecV
2000 Nissan Sentra GXE
1991 Nissan NX2000
1975 Datsun 280z
P.O. Box 685003
Franklin, TN 37068-5003
Dear Consumer Affairs,
I know that I have exhausted my options on this warranty item and a final decision has been rendered. I still feel I want to express formally how utterly disappointed I am in Nissan USA. As a valued customer for the past 8+ years I would have never expected this type of treatment. I wanted to outline my dissatisfaction with not only the final decision, but the process and how you handle the promotion of your extended “Service Agreement” as part of purchasing a Certified Nissan pre-owned vehicle.
I have been a loyal customer since my younger brother purchased a 1991 Nissan Stanza when I was in college. The car was a good lucking tank named George, ran proud and true and so when I was looking for a used car a few years later while I was in graduate school I stumbled into and purchased a 1991 NX 2000. It was not only a cheap dependable car but I eventually turned it into a second car and started using it for SCCA Autocross racing. There began my love for Nissan vehicles. My next car was a 2000 Sentra GXE that I purchased used from an economy lot of a Nissan dealer in Grand Rapids, MI. That car was a great vehicle and the first time I financed a car all on my own.
As I progressed in my career I got nicer vehicles. I sold my NX 2000 and eventually purchased a 2002 Nissan SpecV from a Nissan dealership in Jackson, MI. That car was purely an autocross car, I got a jacket and put Nissan patches on it and enjoyed being one of the few Nissans in my race class (which I would regularly win). Around the time I got my SpecV it was time to get more grown up and I purchased a 2005 (two years old) from a Nissan dealer in Battle Creek, MI. I searched and searched for a used Altima with a 5-speed because I like driving stick and that costs of ownership on a stick are lower (well usually).
Recently I sold my SpecV in exchange for a 1975 Datsun 280Z. Have you picked up on how much I have enjoyed my Nissan ownership experience? I wear Nismo hats, I am on all the Nissan online forums, and I even subscribe to Nissan Sport Magazine (I just renewed).
I have enjoyed having a certified Nissan car. I purchased it with the understanding that the car, with the exception of regular wear items, would be worry free until 100,000 miles or 5 years from purchased date. I know, and never complained when I needed tires, brakes, and other regular maintenance items needed to be done that were not covered.
My first concern was at around 40,000 miles (I purchased the car with 27,000 on the clock). In stop and go traffic in Chicago the clutch pedal went limp. I was able to pull up on it to shift gears and get off to the side of the road. I was preparing to call Nissan when I started the car again and it drove fine. I took it to the dealership right away, thinking the hydraulic fluid was over heating, or something went wrong. The dealership (Les Stanford in Jackson, MI) said nothing appears wrong with it. My issue was that it clearly was something wrong, and they told me when it did it again to let them know.
The issue came up again at about 60,000 miles. This time I took it to Gurley Leep in Mishawaka, IN. This is the dealership that had been servicing my SpecV and Altima and I was EXTREMELY pleased with them. They checked it out, of course the issue did not repeat itself, but I know that the issue happening caused wear on the clutch when the pedal failed. They helped cover some of the cost as they drained the fluid and upgraded the type of fluid used in the transmission.
The issue happened again about a month ago. Once again once I let the car cool down it went back to normal. To me that means the clutch cylinder or something else must be the problem causing it to lose hydraulic pressure. I took it to the dealership with that issue and some clunking in the front of the car. They could not reproduce the clutch issue (again) but did warranty some of the steering items.
Well three days after picking up the car… my clutch pedal felt weird, but it was not the same feeling as before though. The clutch was slipping. That never happened before, before it was the clutch pedal not having pressure. Luckily the car was drivable still so I brought in to the dealer the next day. Well by the time I got to the dealer with clutch was completely slipping.
Of course at this time is when the service manager at Gurley Leep says the clutch isn’t covered and quoted a price of $1280 with one clutch and $950 with a cheaper clutch. I was not in a negotiating mood, kept my cool in the service department and went outside for some fresh air. That is when I was approached by a salesman about buying a new Nissan. Normally I would have loved to chat cars, and about how my wife and I have discussed trading in her Jetta for a Murano this spring once we have our first child (expected Dec 30th). He told me to let him know if he can help with the service department, or if I want to trade the car in like it is. I told him I would contact him, but I wanted to contact Nissan customer service first about my warranty. (That evening I sent him an email, the following day he didn’t respond, and only called once I complained to the service guy that I thought I was blacklisted from the dealership now)
So the following day I called and started Report # 6983311 with (agent) who was very nice on the phone. He explained that my case was “worth investigating” and I could expect a 24 hour response from a Regional Specialist. Here I thought, now I am getting somewhere. I did ask (agent) what would be a typical response, he explain it could be anywhere from covering the repair, to helping with the repair to not covering any of it. I explained my years with Nissan and he thanked me for being a loyal customer. I optimistically waited for the response.
I got a call from (Regional Specialist) from Consumer Affairs and promptly called her back. I was explained that because of the mileage on my car that they would not cover the repair. I explained about the miles on my certified warranty and about how I had taken the car in several times about clutch pedal pressure issues that would of clearly caused the clutch to go bad faster. She explained the decision was final. So I asked, “So I am stuck paying for this entire repair?” She then explained that the dealership told her they offered me a $300 discount on the repair. Which I explained to her was not true, they just offered me a lower quality part to be used instead. She told me she could do nothing but said they “care about my business”, to which I told her clearly you don’t. It is of course her job to refute that, she did, and I wasn’t going to argue so I told her have a good day and hung up.
My mother taught me that actions speak louder than words. My grandfather taught me that loyalty is the most valuable trait from a business. He was a small business owner and had a car repair and tire store. He taught me about business and how to treat people. He retired a successful business man because he knew that his word was all he had to show people and to earn their business. So he made his word count for something. So Nissan, I want to say that this is the most disappointing thing that you could have done. Your word from a dealer in selling me a car, to your word about standing behind your products, and your words of “valuing my business” mean nothing.
I called the dealership back. The service manager (who I know is working hard for me) was only able to get the repair down to $828 for me. Where is my $300 discount that I was supposed to get? A local recommended shop quoted me $750 to do the repair. So a place that doesn’t know anything about me is getting me a better deal than the company with whom I have spend thousands of dollars at for cars and service. Big Nissan, who values my business can’t beat this little local shops price?
The worst of this is… I never thought I would have to think about doing a safecar.gov posting about my dear Nissan. I didn’t think I would ever want to no longer where my Nissan jacket, or even contemplate selling my Datsun race car or give up on talking the wife into the 350Z summer car I have been wanting. I never thought I would be shopping for anything but a Nissan, and now I might be shopping for anything BUT a Nissan.
I know it doesn’t mean much now, because as your agent said this issue is finished, but you lost a costumer. Maybe you get these letters a lot, maybe business is so good you don’t care, but I am writing in the hopes that you do care. If you don’t, shame on you Nissan. Shame on you for losing a valuable customer.
Sincerely,
Sam Centellas
2005 Nissan Altima 2.5s
2002 Nissan SE-R SpecV
2000 Nissan Sentra GXE
1991 Nissan NX2000
1975 Datsun 280z
11.05.2010
Thanks ND. You did the Right Thing.
Its not good news, but it is the news I had hoped would come. Today ND put out a press release about the death of a student on their campus.
ESPN News: "President: Notre Dame responsible"
I wrote a blog the other day and if you didn't read it I basically just wondered if ND would do the right thing.
They didn't dance around the issues, they didn't blame the kid for not bringing down the lift, they didn't say we didn't know the weather was that bad, we didn't ____... they said this:
"Declan Sullivan was entrusted to our care, and we failed to keep him safe," the Rev. John Jenkins wrote. "We at Notre Dame and ultimately I as president are responsible. Words cannot express our sorrow to the Sullivan family and to all involved."
Obviously he wrote more, but that is sometimes all you can ask for when tragedy strikes. So thank you to Notre Dame for restore faith that in the midst of a legal battle, during a losing season, during hard times they just flat out said "We failed".
I think in the midst of all the current politics, mud slinging, elections, and other distractions in the world this is refreshing. Someone just flat out said, "We failed".
So ND answered by blog Will ND Do The Right Thing? They did and today I am proud of their actions, and even though it won't bring Declan back hope it brings the family more closure. I just became a little more Irish today.
ESPN News: "President: Notre Dame responsible"
I wrote a blog the other day and if you didn't read it I basically just wondered if ND would do the right thing.
They didn't dance around the issues, they didn't blame the kid for not bringing down the lift, they didn't say we didn't know the weather was that bad, we didn't ____... they said this:
"Declan Sullivan was entrusted to our care, and we failed to keep him safe," the Rev. John Jenkins wrote. "We at Notre Dame and ultimately I as president are responsible. Words cannot express our sorrow to the Sullivan family and to all involved."
Obviously he wrote more, but that is sometimes all you can ask for when tragedy strikes. So thank you to Notre Dame for restore faith that in the midst of a legal battle, during a losing season, during hard times they just flat out said "We failed".
I think in the midst of all the current politics, mud slinging, elections, and other distractions in the world this is refreshing. Someone just flat out said, "We failed".
So ND answered by blog Will ND Do The Right Thing? They did and today I am proud of their actions, and even though it won't bring Declan back hope it brings the family more closure. I just became a little more Irish today.
11.04.2010
I Hate Elections
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
I hate elections because I hate going and casting a vote knowing that no matter who I vote for things won't really change. I can vote on a property tax cap, but that just means sales taxes will get raised and parks will get closed cause the government won't actually learn to operate on less but give me less instead and still end up charging more. Did that sentence even make sense?
I hate elections because I hate knowing that people judge your intelligence on if you agree with them or not. What? I thought intelligence was defined as your ability to comprehend and learn from experiences. So why is me having a different opinion then yours make you: 1. Better than me. 2. Smarter than me. 3. More connected with reality than I am.
I hate elections because no matter the outcome everyone ends up mad. You either lost and are mad at people like me who aren't as smart as you and didn't vote the same way. Or you are mad because it took two years for you to win your seat back. Or you are mad because you should of won by more. Really?
You want to know what I really hate? No like really, really hate... You don't want to know but here it is anyways.
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
I hate elections because the winners assume that winning means that they don't have to listen to the losers views. The losers assume they have to do everything they can to undermine the winners chance of success in order for them to become winners next time around. So technically everyone loses and we do it all over again next time.
I hate elections for the simple fact that they divide people. They divide us into colors, regions, views, income brackets, and pit us against each other. So things like if you believe in a certain something, makes you vote against things that someone who believes something different brings up regardless of if that thing a good idea or not. I call it the Ex-factor. You hate your Ex, you hate your Ex so much that you hate things they like, if even you used (or still do)to like it you say you don't anymore.
I hate elections because they are about winning. They aren't about helping people, making things better, or improving the lives of our future children. They are about winning at all cost, saying anything (even if you don't mean it) and then doing a happy dance when you won (or a cartwheel I guess).
I do love when elections are over and I don't have to see the yard signs and and attack advertisements on TV. So to that I am thankful, but all the money spent on elections could of helped feed all the homeless in our area, put my daughter through college, and fixed the roads around here. Instead it was spent on electing someone who promises to do those things (but won't).
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
If you are wondering, yes I voted. If you want to know how it doesn't matter, it was my opinion on the issue.
I hate elections because I know you really want to know how I voted, because you want to judge me based on it. Did you listen to anything I wrote above?
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
I hate elections because I hate going and casting a vote knowing that no matter who I vote for things won't really change. I can vote on a property tax cap, but that just means sales taxes will get raised and parks will get closed cause the government won't actually learn to operate on less but give me less instead and still end up charging more. Did that sentence even make sense?
I hate elections because I hate knowing that people judge your intelligence on if you agree with them or not. What? I thought intelligence was defined as your ability to comprehend and learn from experiences. So why is me having a different opinion then yours make you: 1. Better than me. 2. Smarter than me. 3. More connected with reality than I am.
I hate elections because no matter the outcome everyone ends up mad. You either lost and are mad at people like me who aren't as smart as you and didn't vote the same way. Or you are mad because it took two years for you to win your seat back. Or you are mad because you should of won by more. Really?
You want to know what I really hate? No like really, really hate... You don't want to know but here it is anyways.
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
I hate elections because the winners assume that winning means that they don't have to listen to the losers views. The losers assume they have to do everything they can to undermine the winners chance of success in order for them to become winners next time around. So technically everyone loses and we do it all over again next time.
I hate elections for the simple fact that they divide people. They divide us into colors, regions, views, income brackets, and pit us against each other. So things like if you believe in a certain something, makes you vote against things that someone who believes something different brings up regardless of if that thing a good idea or not. I call it the Ex-factor. You hate your Ex, you hate your Ex so much that you hate things they like, if even you used (or still do)to like it you say you don't anymore.
I hate elections because they are about winning. They aren't about helping people, making things better, or improving the lives of our future children. They are about winning at all cost, saying anything (even if you don't mean it) and then doing a happy dance when you won (or a cartwheel I guess).
I do love when elections are over and I don't have to see the yard signs and and attack advertisements on TV. So to that I am thankful, but all the money spent on elections could of helped feed all the homeless in our area, put my daughter through college, and fixed the roads around here. Instead it was spent on electing someone who promises to do those things (but won't).
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
If you are wondering, yes I voted. If you want to know how it doesn't matter, it was my opinion on the issue.
I hate elections because I know you really want to know how I voted, because you want to judge me based on it. Did you listen to anything I wrote above?
I hate elections because at the end of the day people don't listen to each other.
10.28.2010
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
In my law class in grad I always remember the line from my professor, "There is the wrong way to do things, the right way, and the legal way."
I use that phrase all the time, and for those who know me know that I have thought about going to law school for a long time. I am the risk management and legal consultant for my fraternity and we use that thought process to make decisions.
I train my board members and national volunteers how to respond during a crisis. I am reflecting on how we handle things, and looking at how ND is going to handle this situation with the death of a student.
You are trained in crisis management to avoid legal issues (civil suit) to:
Never Apologize
Never admit responsibility
Say you feel bad
Say good things about the victim
Say good thing about the people who (accidentally or on purpose) caused the incident
Say you sympathize
Never let anyone, but someone trained to speak, speak to the media
So far since the death of the student last night at football practice the ND statements have been just as outlined above. The football players have been instructed not to answer questions, and no one from the team but Coach Kelly and Father Jenkins have given a statement. Those statements were completely along the lines stated above.
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Now we are in day two... so will the statements change? I am sure ND is worried about getting sued by the family. I am sure ND is trying to figure out how to mitigate their liability. I am sure ND is worried about what this means for their football team.
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Will they say, "NO" to their lawyers and come out and say they are sorry? Or will they keep up the song and dance to try and avoid a bigger lawsuit? Will someone call the family? Or will they send a heartless, tight rope walking letter hoping to get sued for less?
Here is the difference... just like my fraternity, ND isn't a heartless corporation. They aren't Walmart trying to not get sued for a lot of money and have to raise prices. They are a values based institution that values human life and more importantly doing the right thing. There are banners all over campus that talk about ethical education...
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Will Coach Kelly take a press release. Will he look straight at the camera and say, he is sorry. Will he say that he is ultimately responsible for everything that happens. Wins, Losses, Signing the best players, and yes... when something tragic happens. Will Coach Kelly say that hindsight is 20/20, but he can't go back and make different decisions. Will he say we should of not had him up there. Will he say that they might not of had a good process for deciding if the lift should of gone up. Will he say, that he knows that no matter what he says he can't bring him back, but that he will do all he can to ensure his memory is forgotten.
More importantly, will Coach Kelly, as a father himself, call the father of that young man and say... I am sorry. I can't bring him back, but I will do anything in the world in my power to make this right.
ND. Do The Right Thing. Do the Right Thing and make us all believe that sometimes its about more than money, or more than admitting a mistake... and make me believe that even if I become a lawyer someday, and I have to answer a question like this in my fraternity that I will do the right thing.
So I NEED to know... will ND do the right thing?
I use that phrase all the time, and for those who know me know that I have thought about going to law school for a long time. I am the risk management and legal consultant for my fraternity and we use that thought process to make decisions.
I train my board members and national volunteers how to respond during a crisis. I am reflecting on how we handle things, and looking at how ND is going to handle this situation with the death of a student.
You are trained in crisis management to avoid legal issues (civil suit) to:
Never Apologize
Never admit responsibility
Say you feel bad
Say good things about the victim
Say good thing about the people who (accidentally or on purpose) caused the incident
Say you sympathize
Never let anyone, but someone trained to speak, speak to the media
So far since the death of the student last night at football practice the ND statements have been just as outlined above. The football players have been instructed not to answer questions, and no one from the team but Coach Kelly and Father Jenkins have given a statement. Those statements were completely along the lines stated above.
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Now we are in day two... so will the statements change? I am sure ND is worried about getting sued by the family. I am sure ND is trying to figure out how to mitigate their liability. I am sure ND is worried about what this means for their football team.
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Will they say, "NO" to their lawyers and come out and say they are sorry? Or will they keep up the song and dance to try and avoid a bigger lawsuit? Will someone call the family? Or will they send a heartless, tight rope walking letter hoping to get sued for less?
Here is the difference... just like my fraternity, ND isn't a heartless corporation. They aren't Walmart trying to not get sued for a lot of money and have to raise prices. They are a values based institution that values human life and more importantly doing the right thing. There are banners all over campus that talk about ethical education...
So I want to know... will ND do the right thing?
Will Coach Kelly take a press release. Will he look straight at the camera and say, he is sorry. Will he say that he is ultimately responsible for everything that happens. Wins, Losses, Signing the best players, and yes... when something tragic happens. Will Coach Kelly say that hindsight is 20/20, but he can't go back and make different decisions. Will he say we should of not had him up there. Will he say that they might not of had a good process for deciding if the lift should of gone up. Will he say, that he knows that no matter what he says he can't bring him back, but that he will do all he can to ensure his memory is forgotten.
More importantly, will Coach Kelly, as a father himself, call the father of that young man and say... I am sorry. I can't bring him back, but I will do anything in the world in my power to make this right.
ND. Do The Right Thing. Do the Right Thing and make us all believe that sometimes its about more than money, or more than admitting a mistake... and make me believe that even if I become a lawyer someday, and I have to answer a question like this in my fraternity that I will do the right thing.
So I NEED to know... will ND do the right thing?
10.27.2010
I don't want to be Holster Guy... But...
Oh man... got bad news today, I guess smart phones aren't supposed to be kept in your pocket. When they are transmitting data they are supposed to be kept a certain distance from your body, it is even in the fine print of the instructions.
Apple iPhone recommends 15mm (5/8 of an inch)
Blackberry recommends 25mm (7/8 of an inch)
I saw it this morning on the CBS Morning show... "Cell Phones in Pockets"...and this one really got my attention. I am trying to find what the distance is on my Palm Pre.
WOW that is a lot... so for the ladies who keep it in their purse, that is fine. For me and I bet tons of other guys we just keep it in our pocket. I personally hate holsters... I don't want to be holster guy...
I tried a holster a little this summer because it was annoying always carrying it in my pocket at work. I didn't like it...
So what am I to do? Man bag? Murse? Or the dreaded holster?
Apple iPhone recommends 15mm (5/8 of an inch)
Blackberry recommends 25mm (7/8 of an inch)
I saw it this morning on the CBS Morning show... "Cell Phones in Pockets"...and this one really got my attention. I am trying to find what the distance is on my Palm Pre.
WOW that is a lot... so for the ladies who keep it in their purse, that is fine. For me and I bet tons of other guys we just keep it in our pocket. I personally hate holsters... I don't want to be holster guy...
I tried a holster a little this summer because it was annoying always carrying it in my pocket at work. I didn't like it...
So what am I to do? Man bag? Murse? Or the dreaded holster?
10.20.2010
The Terminal
I have been on the road lately, a lot... more than usual. For the month of October I had a weekend board meeting in Chicago, consulting trip to Ohio University, consulting trip to University of Arizona, conference this weekend in Grand Rapids, MI and then a family trip to Flint next weekend.
So I am a little worn down right now. I like the trips, I like working with students at other schools, I love seeing the good work my chapters are doing around the country, I am excited to take students to this conference.... and I am VERY excited about the family weekend with Novali and Kelly's girls all together again.
November will be chill... we will do all our baby prep and finish the room, some final organizing and things around the house we need done to prepare for the stream of visitors will be having this winter. Including the newest little Centellas... it is really exciting and that energy is what is keeping me going right now.
Wish me luck as I get through one of my busiest months in a long time... I know that soon... it will get even busier!
So I am a little worn down right now. I like the trips, I like working with students at other schools, I love seeing the good work my chapters are doing around the country, I am excited to take students to this conference.... and I am VERY excited about the family weekend with Novali and Kelly's girls all together again.
November will be chill... we will do all our baby prep and finish the room, some final organizing and things around the house we need done to prepare for the stream of visitors will be having this winter. Including the newest little Centellas... it is really exciting and that energy is what is keeping me going right now.
Wish me luck as I get through one of my busiest months in a long time... I know that soon... it will get even busier!
10.05.2010
Whoa Karting
So tonight was the monthly meeting of my car club. For those who don't know, I am a member of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) through the South Bend Region (SBR). We have a monthly meeting on the first Tuesday of the month. I am the chair of our Street Survival Program and of course do my racing with the club.
Well for this monthly meeting we decided to go Karting. Besides at amusement parks or things like that I have never done "real" karting. So this was an adventure for me and man it was FUN. We went to Michiana Raceway Park out near North Liberty, IN.
It was a really fun track layout and the cars were a lot faster than I thought they would be... It was easy to spin the cars in a circle but once I got the hang of it man it was fun drifting them around corners.
I was surprised that the karts didn't have harnesses or seat belts. We were required to wear fire jackets, neck supports, gloves and full face helmets though. Surprisingly the seats kept you in tight, even when you were getting bump drafted or spun out in a circle...
We got to run in groups of 8 at a time on the track. We got three run heats in before it got dark and we had to stop. On my first time out I ended up 7th of the 8... but for a first timer not so bad I thought. For the second heat I moved up to 6th, and then for the final run I was getting the hang of it and moved up to 4th!
So it was a fun night, I for sure want to do this again sometime. Now I want to take Novali out there and see if she really wants to drive a KART. It would be an expensive toy, but man it would be fun! Then Lemon can grow into it and drive it as well! I smell family hobby coming on...
Well for this monthly meeting we decided to go Karting. Besides at amusement parks or things like that I have never done "real" karting. So this was an adventure for me and man it was FUN. We went to Michiana Raceway Park out near North Liberty, IN.
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I was surprised that the karts didn't have harnesses or seat belts. We were required to wear fire jackets, neck supports, gloves and full face helmets though. Surprisingly the seats kept you in tight, even when you were getting bump drafted or spun out in a circle...
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10.03.2010
Its Fall Time
Well there are a lot of good things I enjoy about fall... nice 60 degree days, my Nissan jacket, school is back in session, and many other things. I don't like picking up crabapples, raking leaves and the thought that soon I will have to put away my grill...
This weekend Novali was here visiting and we had a lot of fall time fun. We did some indoor go karts, played basketball and she even wanted to learn how to grill chicken. So needless to say I was a proud papi for the weekend.
We went to Strikes and Spares in South Bend. Surprisingly I have never done the go karts there, it was a nice little indoor track and we had fun. We did two runs, one which was just us and it was fun, the second had a flock of girls who just crashed into each other (and us) but we still have fun.
On Sunday we went to campus and hit up the SAC. It was family hours so they had the small rim pulled out and she got to practice her shots. She is thinking about trying to play basketball at her school this year, so we need to practice more.
It was a fun fall Indiana weekend. Weird to think a month ago I had her during the week and now I just have her every other weekend. She was bummed because in Sunday school they practiced for a play, but she won't be here then... maybe she can do a winter play here.
I posted a few new pics on her website... I know I know... Finally!
Novali: Oct 2010 - Fall Fun
This weekend Novali was here visiting and we had a lot of fall time fun. We did some indoor go karts, played basketball and she even wanted to learn how to grill chicken. So needless to say I was a proud papi for the weekend.
We went to Strikes and Spares in South Bend. Surprisingly I have never done the go karts there, it was a nice little indoor track and we had fun. We did two runs, one which was just us and it was fun, the second had a flock of girls who just crashed into each other (and us) but we still have fun.
On Sunday we went to campus and hit up the SAC. It was family hours so they had the small rim pulled out and she got to practice her shots. She is thinking about trying to play basketball at her school this year, so we need to practice more.
It was a fun fall Indiana weekend. Weird to think a month ago I had her during the week and now I just have her every other weekend. She was bummed because in Sunday school they practiced for a play, but she won't be here then... maybe she can do a winter play here.
I posted a few new pics on her website... I know I know... Finally!
Novali: Oct 2010 - Fall Fun
9.05.2010
Whew...
Well I made it through the first week of classes at IUSB. I am in charge of all of the Welcome Week events and so I was a little stressed... But we kicked off school in style, had bigger events, some new events and lots of good times. Needless to say this weekend I needed a break... and of course to go along with school busyness was my birthday.
I was able to sneak away from work on Thursday and run to Chicago to do Novali's conference with her teacher. So we got to meet her new teacher, see her classroom and organize her desk. It made for a long day, but it meant we got to kick the weekend off a little early and I had Novali for four days before she starts up school.
We had a fun weekend.... my birthday I had to work, but I took Novali so it was fun. Heather and Novali took me to Hacienda for my Friday favorite, Fish Tacos. We had to cut dinner short because I promised our Latino Student Union I would help out with their Lock In that night. Novi was excited to come with me and we had a great time. She introduced herself in front of 30+ strangers, we did a Zumbda class, shot some baskets, and she even danced with all the college kids. She said she loves college and I had to drag her out of there past midnight!
Saturday and Sunday were chill days.... we needed them! It was full of football, grilling brats and hot dogs, movies and of course some yardwork.... and not to mention a little work on the Z which I am doing right now that Novali is in bed. Tomorrow we will finish organizing her folders for school and get her back to Chicago. Then fall really kicks off!
I was able to sneak away from work on Thursday and run to Chicago to do Novali's conference with her teacher. So we got to meet her new teacher, see her classroom and organize her desk. It made for a long day, but it meant we got to kick the weekend off a little early and I had Novali for four days before she starts up school.
We had a fun weekend.... my birthday I had to work, but I took Novali so it was fun. Heather and Novali took me to Hacienda for my Friday favorite, Fish Tacos. We had to cut dinner short because I promised our Latino Student Union I would help out with their Lock In that night. Novi was excited to come with me and we had a great time. She introduced herself in front of 30+ strangers, we did a Zumbda class, shot some baskets, and she even danced with all the college kids. She said she loves college and I had to drag her out of there past midnight!
Saturday and Sunday were chill days.... we needed them! It was full of football, grilling brats and hot dogs, movies and of course some yardwork.... and not to mention a little work on the Z which I am doing right now that Novali is in bed. Tomorrow we will finish organizing her folders for school and get her back to Chicago. Then fall really kicks off!
8.23.2010
Bad Car Times
So this was a bad car weekend....
On Friday night I came home, worked on the Z a little trying to get my AFM boot repair finished. She fired right up, idled strong and I took her around the block. She had about a quarter of a tank (from my lawn mower tank cause I ran out the weekend before trying to test drive her) so I figured while I am out, lets run and get some gas. She ran strong and I was zipping around the neighborhood en route to the local Speedway. Well at the busy intersection just before the gas station... BAM... died... ARGH.
She would not turn back over. Tried and tried... nothing... finally a guy offered to help push. He ran to park his car and right then... she started! I got her into the Speedway but man she was running super rich. I udjusted the idle and got her to stop stalling... but I figured I better try to drive it home at a less busy time... so I left her there...
On Saturday at home I was trying to finish up a project. I got some white leather seats from a Z in a junkyard and I was in the process of dying them black. I did the back side of them and they looked great. I started on the front and... BAM... paint issues... ARGH...
Once it dried the paint looked flat and like it didn't want to stick. I cleaned em well, and they looked better but still look flat (the back was all glossy). So I went and got one more can of the dye and tried again... BAM... still flat. So now not sure what I am going to do, might just use some leather conditioner and see if that will make it glossy. It looks like the paint dried and it is not flaking off... so not sure what happened.
So to round out my weekend on Sunday I had to work. I ran in we had a training sessions for some students. As I was leaving I was hurrying to get home and as I pulled out I turned too sharp out of my end spot and.... BAM... curb rash... ARGH...
Now my front rim has a big curb rash on it and will be a constant reminder to stop being in a rush (or stop working on Sundays).
Rough weekend for my rides... luckily nothing wrong with the Jetta... knock on wood...
On Friday night I came home, worked on the Z a little trying to get my AFM boot repair finished. She fired right up, idled strong and I took her around the block. She had about a quarter of a tank (from my lawn mower tank cause I ran out the weekend before trying to test drive her) so I figured while I am out, lets run and get some gas. She ran strong and I was zipping around the neighborhood en route to the local Speedway. Well at the busy intersection just before the gas station... BAM... died... ARGH.
She would not turn back over. Tried and tried... nothing... finally a guy offered to help push. He ran to park his car and right then... she started! I got her into the Speedway but man she was running super rich. I udjusted the idle and got her to stop stalling... but I figured I better try to drive it home at a less busy time... so I left her there...
On Saturday at home I was trying to finish up a project. I got some white leather seats from a Z in a junkyard and I was in the process of dying them black. I did the back side of them and they looked great. I started on the front and... BAM... paint issues... ARGH...
Once it dried the paint looked flat and like it didn't want to stick. I cleaned em well, and they looked better but still look flat (the back was all glossy). So I went and got one more can of the dye and tried again... BAM... still flat. So now not sure what I am going to do, might just use some leather conditioner and see if that will make it glossy. It looks like the paint dried and it is not flaking off... so not sure what happened.
So to round out my weekend on Sunday I had to work. I ran in we had a training sessions for some students. As I was leaving I was hurrying to get home and as I pulled out I turned too sharp out of my end spot and.... BAM... curb rash... ARGH...
Now my front rim has a big curb rash on it and will be a constant reminder to stop being in a rush (or stop working on Sundays).
Rough weekend for my rides... luckily nothing wrong with the Jetta... knock on wood...
8.05.2010
The Trend
So the trend is that I am back! Yes I am blogging... I finally updated the links on my homepage to reflect the new rides (removed NX pics) and someday I need to update my personal site.. details details. My Home Page
Anyhow today I wanted to rant about the heat here... so our house doesn't have AC. It is an old house, and to put ducts into an older all brick home with real plaster walls would cost a ton and ruin all beautiful walls. However when it is consistently over 90 degrees with lots of humidity it makes me wonder... should we start saving for AC?
So other haps around the house lately. Well we are finally getting our roof repair done. After dealing with two contractors that bailed on the job I think we got a winner and also a good price. The benefit of the slate roof is that it is easier to repair in just portion and it has lasted for nearly 80 years and still has a few more years left.
I do have the room addition bug though... yes we bought a big four bedroom house to grow into... but one of our neighbors is putting on a HUGE addition to their house (nearly doubling the size). It has me wondering how much it would cost, how long until we have equity to get an improvement loan or how much our house value has gone up from all the updates and repairs we have already done.
It is August now... so I am half way through lawn mowing time I think... don't remind me that leaf time is coming but I have enjoyed trying to nurse our backyard back to health. It was a jungle when we got the house and it is slowly coming along.
Anyhow... just a random blog about the house. Peace.
Anyhow today I wanted to rant about the heat here... so our house doesn't have AC. It is an old house, and to put ducts into an older all brick home with real plaster walls would cost a ton and ruin all beautiful walls. However when it is consistently over 90 degrees with lots of humidity it makes me wonder... should we start saving for AC?
So other haps around the house lately. Well we are finally getting our roof repair done. After dealing with two contractors that bailed on the job I think we got a winner and also a good price. The benefit of the slate roof is that it is easier to repair in just portion and it has lasted for nearly 80 years and still has a few more years left.
I do have the room addition bug though... yes we bought a big four bedroom house to grow into... but one of our neighbors is putting on a HUGE addition to their house (nearly doubling the size). It has me wondering how much it would cost, how long until we have equity to get an improvement loan or how much our house value has gone up from all the updates and repairs we have already done.
It is August now... so I am half way through lawn mowing time I think... don't remind me that leaf time is coming but I have enjoyed trying to nurse our backyard back to health. It was a jungle when we got the house and it is slowly coming along.
Anyhow... just a random blog about the house. Peace.
8.01.2010
Happy Anniversary
7.31.2010
To Blog or Not to Blog
I will try to get back into the habit of writing a little bit. With Facebook now I post items there and forget about this... but there I am limited in how much I write so I need to get back into the Blogger Habit.
Check out the other places I "write":
www.meandmyz.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/cruceno21
www.facebook.com/cruceno21
Thanks and stay tuned for a new post soon... and maybe a new blog.