Enough about Money! More about Gardening!

I talk a lot about money it seems... isn't it constantly on your mind too?


Well, the last few weeks I've been trying to spend a little less time putzing around on my computer and more time being productive. I've made lists of things that I need to do, and stuff that I'd like to start working on.

And this warm Southwest Kansas "Winter" is getting me thinking about gardening again!

Last year I wasted money on a gardening project I never followed through on. This year is going to be different. You can find out how to do just about ANYTHING on YouTube! Seriously.

This year I'm going to plant a small garden, maybe 4-5 different veggies. I will plant potatoes (if I get all the details worked out), tomatoes, maybe some bell peppers, not sure what else... maybe some kind of bean??? or a hot pepper???

Being a renter planting a garden would typically be out of the question. I've thought about asking the landlord if it would be ok to start a small garden. But nah, not gonna ask, because I'm going to try a different kind of garden!!

My potato garden will be completely contained in a stacking tire system or a different similar material if I can't get my hands on some old tires. Tomatoes and other veggies I'll grow in an upside down hanging method! Cheap and easy. And no need for digging up anything. :)

I'm excited and I will learn everything I need to know about these kinds of gardens by watching YouTube videos!! W00t!

I'll keep you updated... of course that might be a while from now... since it's still "winter" and all...

Online (high yield) Savings

I saw a TV commercial for HSBC direct while in bed. Got up and straight to the computer. What's the big deal with online only savings accounts? (HSBC or ING or FNBO)

Yes, the interest rate is better. Six to eight times (2.5% vs. .42%) your average local bank savings account interest rate. It's obvious why the rate is that much better, but I want to know more about the process of an online only savings account.

I want an online savings account.

My savings will be modest, but $20 per month saved is better than... $0!

So, any thoughts on the companies? I've looked into a few just briefly. I want a savings account with Bill Pay and Debit Card options. Minimum start up deposit should be $1. Higher the interest the better, but I'm not interested in shuffling savings chasing a better rate. 2.5% -ish would be great. I don't want to deal with early withdrawl fees, but I'd allow my money to be 'held hostage' for a max of one year. Unlimited free transactions (and reimbursements for ATM fees is a bonus).

Ultimately I want a savings account with a great rate and the added bonus of checking account features (just in case).

I'll keep looking into my options but your comments and suggestions are appreciated.

I'll let you know what I come up with.

Resolution Strategy: in 3 words

The great thing about Twitter is, I don't feel obligated to read, word for word, what every person I follow is thinking or doing. So if I'm behind in reading tweets I scan over them for things that pop out at me.

Today I caught a link to a blog with an idea on how to attack your new years resolution. Cool I thought. I'm going to attempt at accomplishing my many goals with three words. http://www.chrisbrogan.com/your-3-goals-for-2009/
His idea really simplifies an overwhelming feat to tackle lots of 2009 goals. And he's used this strategy for the past few years.

I've come up with my three words:

Save. Pay. Finish.

Save:

1. Save time
2. Save money
3. Save memories
4. Save the environment
5. Save the drama for yo' mama
6. Save my computer
7. Save for a new computer
8. Save your excuses
9. Save my health
10. Save my breath

Pay:

1. Pay attention
2. Pay with cash
3. Pay down debts
4. Pay it forward
5. Pay a visit

Finish:

1. Finish what you've started
2. Finish "unpacking"
3. Finish work daily
4. Finish with a bang
5. Finish for a fresh start
6. Finish strong
7. Finish with forward momentum

These three words quickly got my brain churning. This is the start of a list I expect could be pages and pages long by the end of 2009.

Yet, I'm not overwhelmed in the slightest. All I have to do is apply these three words to my everyday. If I'm thinking about doing something that doesn't fit in with any of these words then maybe it's not worth doing. I can evaluate and move on.

What three words apply to you?