Cutter's Log - Stardate 2102.92.60
Current Song - Changes (David Bowie)
I drove across the new section of the First Avenue Bridge between Sterling and Rock Falls today.
The lightposts look nice and the bridge is overly clean, which means it should be a sight to see at night once it's all done.
But there is a certain feeling that I will miss, after having crossed the old bridge for all of my life.
Coming from the Rock Falls side, there are certain bumps (which are connecting sections of the old bridge, but I call them bumps). These are like heartbeat sounds. There's that big bump when you get on the bridge. Then it's like a heartbeat: there's a little bump, followed by a big bump, followed by a little bump, followed by a big bump and so on - all at the same time gap.
Then, as you prepare to meet up with the big buildings on the Sterling side, there is a familiar sound that you hear up until you get to the 2nd Street stoplight. The sound is a low-sounding high-pitched one as you make your way down the bridge, and then the sound screetches upward as you make your way up at full speed.
20 years of feeling these beats and hearing the sound while crossing the bridge is going to be real odd now.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
To Tip Or Not To Tip
Cutter's Log - Stardate 2102.62.60
Current Song - Non Stop (John Malcolm)
I didn't have a whole lot to do today, and did everything before 1 p.m. Not much to do on these days off of work.
Today I had to deposit money at the bank, mail something, put some gas in my car and went to the Walton Mart to buy a few things.
One of the things I wanted to buy was a July-to-July planner to help get my website ideas under control and on schedule. It's one of those small, cheap black ones with the extras in it: such as the tiniest world map I've ever seen, a conversion chart, and a list of gratuitities.
I will admit that I am extremely bad at tipping. I do tip, but I never know exactly how much to tip. Sometimes it's just a matter of looking at what remaining money I have left and take a part of it. At least there's no law that demands tipping.
If I go out to eat and the bill is less than $10, I'll just put my whatever's left on the table. Recently a friend and I ate at Al and Leda's in Dixon where my bill came out to $8-something. The rest of the $10 went on the table for the tip. Typically my meals come out to somewhere between $7 and $9.
I'm looking at this list of gratuitities and I don't usually encounter such things.
Here's the list, and my comments:
*Waiter/Waitress - "15% for adequate service, 20% for exceptional service." (and NO, you don't pay 77 cents for a waitress per a waiter's dollar!) So a $10 meal warrants a $1.50 tip if everything's alright. I'm more of an understanding person, so I RARELY ever get angry at anyone for, as an example, putting mayo on my burger when I asked for it to be plain. No worries, I'll just scrape the mayo off with the knife. This prevents servers from crying.
But at the same time, a typical steak dinner for me would be a $3 minimum. I should be tipping the cook in this instance, right? If, God forbid, I went to a five-star where something's $50/plate, the way I look at it is that the work output is the same there as it is at a smaller joint.
*Buffet/Self-serve Restaurant - "Nothing unless there is some service; 10% if server delivers food/keeps drinks refilled." First of all, I have yet to see a buffet where a server delivers food. However, Ponderosa does this where a server delivers a steak and keeps drinks refilled. So why is this just 10%? Why not "15% for adequate service, 20% for exceptional service?"
And do you tip in Yen at a Chinese buffet?
*Busboys - "Nothing. $1-$2 for cleaning up a big mess." So I guess it depends on the definition of "big" when it comes to a mess. Don't expect any tips from hoarders.
*Bartender - "15-20%; $1 minimum per drink." I don't drink so I can't tell you.
*Cocktail Server - "15%-20%." My only experiences with cocktail servers are those that walk around the casinos. Soda is free. 15% of free is ... what? Nothing, I guess.
*Maitre d'/Captain - "$5-25 for special efforts." Never had such an experience, so I can't tell you. The closest comparision I know of is when the general manager comes to your table and asks you if everything is alright. When I go to eat, I want to eat. I don't want to meet the general maanger, or know what his/her name is.
I need to get out more.
*Sommelier/Wine Steward - "15% of bottle cost." Again, I don't drink so I can't tell you.
*Coat Check - "$1 per item." I don't like coat checks. My only experience with one was when we had a seventh-grade student dance at the Coliseum many years ago. I actually trust my locked car in such cases, or arrive early enough to park somewhere closer. The casino in Clinton has a coat check, and when I go there in the winter time I'm simply running from my car to the door - about 10-15 seconds.
*Restroom Attendant - "$1." I personally think the thought of this is scary. But I guess it depends on the situation. If it's a simple No. 1 and wash-your-hands, it's pointless. If I stink up the entire restroom, is one dollar really enough?
*Parking valet - "$2 When car is retrieved." Don't get me started on valet parking. Okay, since I got myself started, I'll ramble. "Valet parking" means "parking for lazy people," unless you are very old or handicapped. I don't mind parking at the rear of the lot. For one, it's good exercise. And I need it. But the main point is this: someone you DO NOT KNOW is driving YOUR car. That should be enough. Who knows what they'll take in addition to your $2 tip.
*Takeout service - "No tip unless something special is done."
*Counter service - "15%-20% depending service." I haven't a clue as to what this means in comparision to Takeout Service.
*Food delivery (e.g. pizza) - "10% ($2 minimum)." I rarely order pizza for myself. The only time I ever did so was at a hotel in suburban Minneapolis (Burnsville). I didn't know what Pizza Hut to call. So I had to look at the map in the front of the Yellow Pages to guide me. Sure enough the closest place (Eagan) didn't deliver to the suburb I'm at. I was told that the closest place that delivered was Bloomington.
So you mean to tell me that the driver has to get on the busy I-35W and cross the Minnesota River, in a metropolitan area nonetheless, and find this hotel off of Burnsville Parkway? I felt sorry for the driver, as I thought this was a very long drive for him (not to mention crossing one of those intersections where there is a sign that reads "traffic congested when lights flashing").
Sure enough he found the hotel room, and I proceeded to hand him a $5 tip for my $9.99 pizza. My reply was "I hate when people do that."
*Barber - "$2-$3 or 15%." So when you go to Sheffield for the $1.75 haircut, the tip is $0.25.
*Hair stylist - "15%-20%; $3 to $5 for last minute service." When it comes to just my hair, it is a simple thing. Just get rid of three-quarters of it. Meaning, the difference between a barber and a hair stylist is moot. (I assume the last-minute service line is on top of the percentage).
I get an awkward feeling when tipping for hair services. When I'm tipping for restaurant service, usually the tippee is not present. With hair, the person is also ringing you up on the register. When I was younger and going to get my hair cut on my own time for the first time (rather than having mom or dad take me there), I didn't know what to tip. I fear that "what a lousy tip" look.
*Shampoo or other assistant - "$2 to $5 for each person; [with the notation of] Give directly to each person."
*Manicurist - "15%." If I ever want to be a knuckle-ball pitcher, I'll keep that in mind.
*Spa services - "15%-20%." However, if they take off all their ...
*Car wash - "$2-$3 for a car; $3-$5 for SUV or larger vehicle." Sounds like something that should be included in the charge. I'm curious as to how this works for both a youth softball fundraiser, and a bikini-themed wash.
*Furniture/Appliance Delivery - "$5 to $10 per person minimum; Up to $20 if delivery is large, heavy or difficult." I see great-grandmothers rolling out twenties for every microwave delivery. I also see Gold's Gym regulars handing out Abes for every sectional.
*Pet Groomers - "15% of bill or $2 per pet." Gee, which is cheaper?
*Shoeshine - "$1-$2." Man, I'm beginning to think this planner I bought is made for people more professional than me.
*Hotel Doorman - "$1 per bag for help with luggage; $1 per person for hailing a cab." Man, I'm really beginning to think this planner I bought is made for people more professional than me.
*Bellman/Porter - "$1 to $2 per bag ($2 minimum)." Unless you put me on the bellhop cart and push me to my room. I don't know the tip for that. How about $0.10/pound?
*Housekeeper - "$2-$5 per night; tip daily and leave on pillow." In other words, I can't clean up after myself.
*Concierge - "$5-$20 depending on the service; Nothing for directions." If I have time to get it myself, I'll get it myself. I actually feel this recommended tip is a little low for people striving to achieve the impossible.
*Parking valet (hotel) - "$2-$5 when car is retrieved." Refer to my earlier point. And why the extra when it comes to hotels?
*Room Service waiter - "15% of bill."
*****
Current Song - Non Stop (John Malcolm)
I didn't have a whole lot to do today, and did everything before 1 p.m. Not much to do on these days off of work.
Today I had to deposit money at the bank, mail something, put some gas in my car and went to the Walton Mart to buy a few things.
One of the things I wanted to buy was a July-to-July planner to help get my website ideas under control and on schedule. It's one of those small, cheap black ones with the extras in it: such as the tiniest world map I've ever seen, a conversion chart, and a list of gratuitities.
I will admit that I am extremely bad at tipping. I do tip, but I never know exactly how much to tip. Sometimes it's just a matter of looking at what remaining money I have left and take a part of it. At least there's no law that demands tipping.
If I go out to eat and the bill is less than $10, I'll just put my whatever's left on the table. Recently a friend and I ate at Al and Leda's in Dixon where my bill came out to $8-something. The rest of the $10 went on the table for the tip. Typically my meals come out to somewhere between $7 and $9.
I'm looking at this list of gratuitities and I don't usually encounter such things.
Here's the list, and my comments:
*Waiter/Waitress - "15% for adequate service, 20% for exceptional service." (and NO, you don't pay 77 cents for a waitress per a waiter's dollar!) So a $10 meal warrants a $1.50 tip if everything's alright. I'm more of an understanding person, so I RARELY ever get angry at anyone for, as an example, putting mayo on my burger when I asked for it to be plain. No worries, I'll just scrape the mayo off with the knife. This prevents servers from crying.
But at the same time, a typical steak dinner for me would be a $3 minimum. I should be tipping the cook in this instance, right? If, God forbid, I went to a five-star where something's $50/plate, the way I look at it is that the work output is the same there as it is at a smaller joint.
*Buffet/Self-serve Restaurant - "Nothing unless there is some service; 10% if server delivers food/keeps drinks refilled." First of all, I have yet to see a buffet where a server delivers food. However, Ponderosa does this where a server delivers a steak and keeps drinks refilled. So why is this just 10%? Why not "15% for adequate service, 20% for exceptional service?"
And do you tip in Yen at a Chinese buffet?
*Busboys - "Nothing. $1-$2 for cleaning up a big mess." So I guess it depends on the definition of "big" when it comes to a mess. Don't expect any tips from hoarders.
*Bartender - "15-20%; $1 minimum per drink." I don't drink so I can't tell you.
*Cocktail Server - "15%-20%." My only experiences with cocktail servers are those that walk around the casinos. Soda is free. 15% of free is ... what? Nothing, I guess.
*Maitre d'/Captain - "$5-25 for special efforts." Never had such an experience, so I can't tell you. The closest comparision I know of is when the general manager comes to your table and asks you if everything is alright. When I go to eat, I want to eat. I don't want to meet the general maanger, or know what his/her name is.
I need to get out more.
*Sommelier/Wine Steward - "15% of bottle cost." Again, I don't drink so I can't tell you.
*Coat Check - "$1 per item." I don't like coat checks. My only experience with one was when we had a seventh-grade student dance at the Coliseum many years ago. I actually trust my locked car in such cases, or arrive early enough to park somewhere closer. The casino in Clinton has a coat check, and when I go there in the winter time I'm simply running from my car to the door - about 10-15 seconds.
*Restroom Attendant - "$1." I personally think the thought of this is scary. But I guess it depends on the situation. If it's a simple No. 1 and wash-your-hands, it's pointless. If I stink up the entire restroom, is one dollar really enough?
*Parking valet - "$2 When car is retrieved." Don't get me started on valet parking. Okay, since I got myself started, I'll ramble. "Valet parking" means "parking for lazy people," unless you are very old or handicapped. I don't mind parking at the rear of the lot. For one, it's good exercise. And I need it. But the main point is this: someone you DO NOT KNOW is driving YOUR car. That should be enough. Who knows what they'll take in addition to your $2 tip.
*Takeout service - "No tip unless something special is done."
*Counter service - "15%-20% depending service." I haven't a clue as to what this means in comparision to Takeout Service.
*Food delivery (e.g. pizza) - "10% ($2 minimum)." I rarely order pizza for myself. The only time I ever did so was at a hotel in suburban Minneapolis (Burnsville). I didn't know what Pizza Hut to call. So I had to look at the map in the front of the Yellow Pages to guide me. Sure enough the closest place (Eagan) didn't deliver to the suburb I'm at. I was told that the closest place that delivered was Bloomington.
So you mean to tell me that the driver has to get on the busy I-35W and cross the Minnesota River, in a metropolitan area nonetheless, and find this hotel off of Burnsville Parkway? I felt sorry for the driver, as I thought this was a very long drive for him (not to mention crossing one of those intersections where there is a sign that reads "traffic congested when lights flashing").
Sure enough he found the hotel room, and I proceeded to hand him a $5 tip for my $9.99 pizza. My reply was "I hate when people do that."
*Barber - "$2-$3 or 15%." So when you go to Sheffield for the $1.75 haircut, the tip is $0.25.
*Hair stylist - "15%-20%; $3 to $5 for last minute service." When it comes to just my hair, it is a simple thing. Just get rid of three-quarters of it. Meaning, the difference between a barber and a hair stylist is moot. (I assume the last-minute service line is on top of the percentage).
I get an awkward feeling when tipping for hair services. When I'm tipping for restaurant service, usually the tippee is not present. With hair, the person is also ringing you up on the register. When I was younger and going to get my hair cut on my own time for the first time (rather than having mom or dad take me there), I didn't know what to tip. I fear that "what a lousy tip" look.
*Shampoo or other assistant - "$2 to $5 for each person; [with the notation of] Give directly to each person."
*Manicurist - "15%." If I ever want to be a knuckle-ball pitcher, I'll keep that in mind.
*Spa services - "15%-20%." However, if they take off all their ...
*Car wash - "$2-$3 for a car; $3-$5 for SUV or larger vehicle." Sounds like something that should be included in the charge. I'm curious as to how this works for both a youth softball fundraiser, and a bikini-themed wash.
*Furniture/Appliance Delivery - "$5 to $10 per person minimum; Up to $20 if delivery is large, heavy or difficult." I see great-grandmothers rolling out twenties for every microwave delivery. I also see Gold's Gym regulars handing out Abes for every sectional.
*Pet Groomers - "15% of bill or $2 per pet." Gee, which is cheaper?
*Shoeshine - "$1-$2." Man, I'm beginning to think this planner I bought is made for people more professional than me.
*Hotel Doorman - "$1 per bag for help with luggage; $1 per person for hailing a cab." Man, I'm really beginning to think this planner I bought is made for people more professional than me.
*Bellman/Porter - "$1 to $2 per bag ($2 minimum)." Unless you put me on the bellhop cart and push me to my room. I don't know the tip for that. How about $0.10/pound?
*Housekeeper - "$2-$5 per night; tip daily and leave on pillow." In other words, I can't clean up after myself.
*Concierge - "$5-$20 depending on the service; Nothing for directions." If I have time to get it myself, I'll get it myself. I actually feel this recommended tip is a little low for people striving to achieve the impossible.
*Parking valet (hotel) - "$2-$5 when car is retrieved." Refer to my earlier point. And why the extra when it comes to hotels?
*Room Service waiter - "15% of bill."
*****
Saturday, June 23, 2012
Blackjack Moderation
Cutter's Log - Stardate 2102.32.60
Current Song - Born on the Bayou (CCR)
Okay, so seeing this windfall come in such numbers as they are made me want to spend some of it on entertainment.
That form of entertainment last week was a trip to the casino in Clinton.
"So you went to see a concert?"
No.
I went through the gate.
Any cries of "It's the end of Cody's world" are premature. Don't sound the klaxons in your head.
As I mentioned in my previous entry, I came in last week with $100 and left with $200. So I won $100. That had been my first trip to a blackjack table in maybe a year. During that time I had been out of work, and trying to find more and more ways to conserve.
I went back there today with $60 and left with $100. + $140 overall.
I think this helped me. I made a few adjustments to my game and wound up in the black.
It took me five years and several trips, but I think I'm learning more about moderation and such.
You read that correctly - I have been making these once-every-few-months trips since I was 21. I first played at the Isle in Bettendorf, and over the years have been to Rhythm City in Davenport, Jumer's in Rock Island, both Wild Rose and the old Mississippi Belle in Clinton, both the boat and the land-based Diamond Jo in Dubuque, Grand Victoria in Elgin, Hollywood in Aurora, Empress in Joliet (before and after the big fire), Pair-A-Dice in East Peoria, Horseshoe in Hammond and Desert Diamond in Tuscon.
I'll only play slots to kill time, and only a fre dollars worth because I hate them. Only once have I ever played a non-blackjack table game, and that was Pai Gow Poker at Wild Rose (which I have since forgotten how to play, and also involves some sort of weird house commission). So it's always been the blackjack table.
My biggest overall win - mentioned last week - was $700 at the old Empress. This was a $10 table, and I wound up playing $25 chips at a time. Because of this hot streak, I think I wound up playing a total of $75 in side bets that went toward dealer tips.
The most I ever spent on a single hand was $95, and this was at Wild Rose shortly before tables closed at 2 a.m. Win and drive to the Isle in Bettendorf (where there's at least one table open all night); lose and drive home. I wound up going to Bettendorf that night.
Along the way there have been some wins and some losses, and with each trip I have learned certain tips to try to increase my chances of walking away with more than what I come in with.
I took too many chances when I was younger, and that led to playing more conservatively. I would often think to myself how a coach would make an adjustment during a time-out - drawing up things on a imaginary whiteboard. Playing conservatively meant always playing the minimum and never taking any chances, splits (except aces) or double downs (even at 11 against a 6).
You have to find that time when you want to stray away from "the chart" that advises players what to do in every possible situation. I don't have the mental capacity to count cards (or the audacity to do so). Taking such chances increases those of coming out more ahead. I feel I've done okay with the playmaking.
The biggest improvement that I have made is pot control and learning when to walk away. Last week, coming in with $100, I wanted to leave with at least $50. This was a decision that I would have never made back then. Over time while at the table, I increased my minimum to account for boredom and the waning of thinking skills. I play with $5 red chips all of the time. After a while, when I notice my single stack getting up there, I'll "color in" five reds for a single green. I'll put the single green aside and not play it, and continuing to play with the reds I have. This ensures that I don't walk away empty-handed because it would be foolish to play a $25 hand after a losing streak of a few $5's.
Today I came to Clinton with the mindset that I will walk away with no more than $100. That meant simply winning $40 and going home. I once got to $105, but kept on playing because I was bored. I got down to around $50 before getting back to the $100 mark. I think this mindset of determining a maximum helped me focus.
Last, but not least, I mentioned last week that I avoid "player's club cards." They track things. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. When pressured, my typical line is "Tell you what, If I get everything here (point to my stack) down to a purple (pointing to a $500 purple chip), I'll join. You want me to join, huh? Are we going to make that happen?"
That's about all I can give out right now.
There are many other secrets. I won't reveal them.
Current Song - Born on the Bayou (CCR)
Okay, so seeing this windfall come in such numbers as they are made me want to spend some of it on entertainment.
That form of entertainment last week was a trip to the casino in Clinton.
"So you went to see a concert?"
No.
I went through the gate.
Any cries of "It's the end of Cody's world" are premature. Don't sound the klaxons in your head.
As I mentioned in my previous entry, I came in last week with $100 and left with $200. So I won $100. That had been my first trip to a blackjack table in maybe a year. During that time I had been out of work, and trying to find more and more ways to conserve.
I went back there today with $60 and left with $100. + $140 overall.
I think this helped me. I made a few adjustments to my game and wound up in the black.
It took me five years and several trips, but I think I'm learning more about moderation and such.
You read that correctly - I have been making these once-every-few-months trips since I was 21. I first played at the Isle in Bettendorf, and over the years have been to Rhythm City in Davenport, Jumer's in Rock Island, both Wild Rose and the old Mississippi Belle in Clinton, both the boat and the land-based Diamond Jo in Dubuque, Grand Victoria in Elgin, Hollywood in Aurora, Empress in Joliet (before and after the big fire), Pair-A-Dice in East Peoria, Horseshoe in Hammond and Desert Diamond in Tuscon.
I'll only play slots to kill time, and only a fre dollars worth because I hate them. Only once have I ever played a non-blackjack table game, and that was Pai Gow Poker at Wild Rose (which I have since forgotten how to play, and also involves some sort of weird house commission). So it's always been the blackjack table.
My biggest overall win - mentioned last week - was $700 at the old Empress. This was a $10 table, and I wound up playing $25 chips at a time. Because of this hot streak, I think I wound up playing a total of $75 in side bets that went toward dealer tips.
The most I ever spent on a single hand was $95, and this was at Wild Rose shortly before tables closed at 2 a.m. Win and drive to the Isle in Bettendorf (where there's at least one table open all night); lose and drive home. I wound up going to Bettendorf that night.
Along the way there have been some wins and some losses, and with each trip I have learned certain tips to try to increase my chances of walking away with more than what I come in with.
I took too many chances when I was younger, and that led to playing more conservatively. I would often think to myself how a coach would make an adjustment during a time-out - drawing up things on a imaginary whiteboard. Playing conservatively meant always playing the minimum and never taking any chances, splits (except aces) or double downs (even at 11 against a 6).
You have to find that time when you want to stray away from "the chart" that advises players what to do in every possible situation. I don't have the mental capacity to count cards (or the audacity to do so). Taking such chances increases those of coming out more ahead. I feel I've done okay with the playmaking.
The biggest improvement that I have made is pot control and learning when to walk away. Last week, coming in with $100, I wanted to leave with at least $50. This was a decision that I would have never made back then. Over time while at the table, I increased my minimum to account for boredom and the waning of thinking skills. I play with $5 red chips all of the time. After a while, when I notice my single stack getting up there, I'll "color in" five reds for a single green. I'll put the single green aside and not play it, and continuing to play with the reds I have. This ensures that I don't walk away empty-handed because it would be foolish to play a $25 hand after a losing streak of a few $5's.
Today I came to Clinton with the mindset that I will walk away with no more than $100. That meant simply winning $40 and going home. I once got to $105, but kept on playing because I was bored. I got down to around $50 before getting back to the $100 mark. I think this mindset of determining a maximum helped me focus.
Last, but not least, I mentioned last week that I avoid "player's club cards." They track things. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. When pressured, my typical line is "Tell you what, If I get everything here (point to my stack) down to a purple (pointing to a $500 purple chip), I'll join. You want me to join, huh? Are we going to make that happen?"
That's about all I can give out right now.
There are many other secrets. I won't reveal them.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Road to Recovery
Cutter's Log - Stardate 2012.22.60
Current Song - In The Dark (Billy Squier)
(Trying to keep up with this new Blogger formatting thing. This explains why the font looks different than the previous entries)
Two months have passed since getting the news that I would be back at work once again. Before that time I was at an all-time low in my life. When I wrote about Moving Day, that was the worst day of my life. That is still the worst "day" of my life, but those seven months unemployed was the worst time of my life.
Since getting back to work, things have felt a whole lot better. I've had some bumps in the road, and showdowns as well, but right now I feel real fine.
With an income finally rolling in each week, it's been easier to be able to afford things like gas for my car, the necessities that I need to go to Wal-Mart for, and trying to dig a hole out of the savings losses that bothered me over time.
And since the sports season won't be back underway until mid-August, every dollar that comes in until then will rarely be spent on website expenses.
But since money is coming in real well, that doesn't mean I'm going to spend it all. Since getting those paychecks back again, I've been better at dividing it up between the three accounts that I have: my checking, my savings and my website fund. I'm operating on the "take only what you need" concept, in an effort to save money for the larger things I'll need later on.
The above is a reason why I am trying to stray away from the direct deposit form of payment. Going the DD route seems easier for most people, but actually getting the paycheck (and physically touching it) means that I can divy it up however I want to - splitting it up between three accounts. This prevents me from going on any spending sprees with a debit card. I had originally asked for DD when I rejoined Shell, but instead got it changed to the normal method. So when I walk into the bank once a week, I can make better choices as to where to put my money into.
My "take only what you need" concept is helpful for another thing that I've been trying to do - spend less on bad food. Originally, with more money coming in, I had been spending a little bit more than usual at the drive-thru window.
Curbing all of this is the next big challenge.
A big boost to getting back on track was when my dad asked if he wanted to transfer his gym membership to my name. Everything came to a head there. Sure. I made my signature today, and I'm going to be seeing what that can do for me soon. More water became available in the fridge, and I tried to put water instead of Pepsi in my work mug one day.
First, I needed to buy some more clothing appropriate for the task. I have it on as I'm typing this, and, after typing this, will be going on a familiar walking route that I had been on once upon a time - a six-mile round-trip one. I seriously can't wait to see a somewhat lesser me. I just got to keep committed to this. I'm thinking gym for a couple of hours after work, and the six-mile walk on days off.
This commitment-to-fitness schedule takes a hit once the sports season starts up again. Or at least it had in previous years. However, since I am trying to limit my website spending (fuel costs) by de-emphasizing game articles, this allows me to have more free time to balance a fitness schedule. I'll have more on getting a fitness plan later. I'll think about it during the walk tonight.
***
An improvement in my social health was found one morning last week when I went to the casino in Clinton. I took a portion of my first paycheck after the sports season and went put it on the $5 blackjack table. I went early, and fought off the dealer's persuasion to sign up for the casino's player's club (you see, this way no one can keep track of your spending and winnings - unless your ID gets put in a scanner system at the entrance because you are so young).
(On an even more off-beat note, my fear of club cards started when I went back to Empress in Joliet after the big fire a few years back. On the old boat I had won $700 playing blackjack one night, and was carded before I came in and had my picture taken. When I went back, after the fire, I had to go through the same entrance procedure. When I got to the table, I decided to register for their player's club - "It's free" - and proceeded to lose 9 of 10 hands to make my night short. I threw the card away as I left the casino).
So I'm playing with a fake story that I'm from Rockford - so that the dealer can shut up about trying to get me in a player's club because "I'm not from around here" - and I see chips piling up a little more than usual. Because I was in the black from my buy-in, I kind of felt more happier. I don't think I was ever more talkative at a blackjack table in my life. I guess it helps with guys you don't know.
Anyway, I walked out of the casino with $100 more dollars than what I came in with. Am I going back? Not for a while.
Current Song - In The Dark (Billy Squier)
(Trying to keep up with this new Blogger formatting thing. This explains why the font looks different than the previous entries)
Two months have passed since getting the news that I would be back at work once again. Before that time I was at an all-time low in my life. When I wrote about Moving Day, that was the worst day of my life. That is still the worst "day" of my life, but those seven months unemployed was the worst time of my life.
Since getting back to work, things have felt a whole lot better. I've had some bumps in the road, and showdowns as well, but right now I feel real fine.
With an income finally rolling in each week, it's been easier to be able to afford things like gas for my car, the necessities that I need to go to Wal-Mart for, and trying to dig a hole out of the savings losses that bothered me over time.
And since the sports season won't be back underway until mid-August, every dollar that comes in until then will rarely be spent on website expenses.
But since money is coming in real well, that doesn't mean I'm going to spend it all. Since getting those paychecks back again, I've been better at dividing it up between the three accounts that I have: my checking, my savings and my website fund. I'm operating on the "take only what you need" concept, in an effort to save money for the larger things I'll need later on.
The above is a reason why I am trying to stray away from the direct deposit form of payment. Going the DD route seems easier for most people, but actually getting the paycheck (and physically touching it) means that I can divy it up however I want to - splitting it up between three accounts. This prevents me from going on any spending sprees with a debit card. I had originally asked for DD when I rejoined Shell, but instead got it changed to the normal method. So when I walk into the bank once a week, I can make better choices as to where to put my money into.
My "take only what you need" concept is helpful for another thing that I've been trying to do - spend less on bad food. Originally, with more money coming in, I had been spending a little bit more than usual at the drive-thru window.
Curbing all of this is the next big challenge.
A big boost to getting back on track was when my dad asked if he wanted to transfer his gym membership to my name. Everything came to a head there. Sure. I made my signature today, and I'm going to be seeing what that can do for me soon. More water became available in the fridge, and I tried to put water instead of Pepsi in my work mug one day.
First, I needed to buy some more clothing appropriate for the task. I have it on as I'm typing this, and, after typing this, will be going on a familiar walking route that I had been on once upon a time - a six-mile round-trip one. I seriously can't wait to see a somewhat lesser me. I just got to keep committed to this. I'm thinking gym for a couple of hours after work, and the six-mile walk on days off.
This commitment-to-fitness schedule takes a hit once the sports season starts up again. Or at least it had in previous years. However, since I am trying to limit my website spending (fuel costs) by de-emphasizing game articles, this allows me to have more free time to balance a fitness schedule. I'll have more on getting a fitness plan later. I'll think about it during the walk tonight.
***
An improvement in my social health was found one morning last week when I went to the casino in Clinton. I took a portion of my first paycheck after the sports season and went put it on the $5 blackjack table. I went early, and fought off the dealer's persuasion to sign up for the casino's player's club (you see, this way no one can keep track of your spending and winnings - unless your ID gets put in a scanner system at the entrance because you are so young).
(On an even more off-beat note, my fear of club cards started when I went back to Empress in Joliet after the big fire a few years back. On the old boat I had won $700 playing blackjack one night, and was carded before I came in and had my picture taken. When I went back, after the fire, I had to go through the same entrance procedure. When I got to the table, I decided to register for their player's club - "It's free" - and proceeded to lose 9 of 10 hands to make my night short. I threw the card away as I left the casino).
So I'm playing with a fake story that I'm from Rockford - so that the dealer can shut up about trying to get me in a player's club because "I'm not from around here" - and I see chips piling up a little more than usual. Because I was in the black from my buy-in, I kind of felt more happier. I don't think I was ever more talkative at a blackjack table in my life. I guess it helps with guys you don't know.
Anyway, I walked out of the casino with $100 more dollars than what I came in with. Am I going back? Not for a while.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Shell Fuel Rewards - A Basic Primer
Over the coming weeks, all of us Shell employees will be familiar with a new Fuel Rewards program. Currently, Shell offers many ways that people can save money on fuel.
We have the "Shell Saver Card," where, when linked up with a debit card, customers can save up to $0.02/gallon.
We have the "Drive For Five Card," which is a seperate Shell credit card that customers can use save up to $0.05/gallon.
---don't have any of these two? Go to a Shell store and ask the clerk for one.
We also have a promotion with the Kroger/Hilander stores, where saver's card customers from those stores can save $0.10/gallon at Shell for every $100 spent at Kroger/Hilander.
Get ready for a new one.
Shell has introduced a new Fuel Rewards NETWORK where customers can save $0.10/gallon for every $50 purchased at various grocery stores, diners, and through online shopping.
The FRN program has a seperate card, which can either be mailed to customers or be available at Shell locations.
This FRN card needs to be linked up with a credit/debit card in order for the savings to work.
Once $50 is spent using your credit/debit card linked with the FRN at participating locations, customers are eligible to use the $0.10/gallon-off savings. After the use, all of the points start over again (just like how the Kroger/Hilander stuff works).
So where can people around here earn the savings?
Mainly, people around here will earn the rewards by online shopping at such places as: Advance Auto Parts, Apple Store, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Holiday Inn Express, Home Depot, iTunes, JC PEnney, Kohl's, Land's End, Lowe's, Macy's, Nike Store, Nordstrom, Office Depot, Office Max, Old Navy, Overstock, Sears, Staples, Target and Vera Bradley.
There are very few places in Northwest Illinois where you can grocery shop or eat at and earn Fuel Rewards. Places to eat at in the region include Manny's Too (Fulton), Happy Joe's (Geneseo), Gene's Place (Rockford) and Fried Green Tomatoes (Galena), along with a few more places in the Iowa Quad Cities and Chicagoland. Grocery shopping opportunities are extremely rare, as the closest place to do such and earn points is the Pick 'n Save in Monroe, Wisc.
From what I understand, the $50 is collective - meaning you can spend $10 at Manny's Too, $10 at the Apple Store, $10 at Pick 'N Save, $10 at Fried Green Tomatoes, and $10 at Vera Bradley in the same day, and get your Rewards.
Learn more here:
https://www.fuelrewards.com/fuelrewards.html
We have the "Shell Saver Card," where, when linked up with a debit card, customers can save up to $0.02/gallon.
We have the "Drive For Five Card," which is a seperate Shell credit card that customers can use save up to $0.05/gallon.
---don't have any of these two? Go to a Shell store and ask the clerk for one.
We also have a promotion with the Kroger/Hilander stores, where saver's card customers from those stores can save $0.10/gallon at Shell for every $100 spent at Kroger/Hilander.
Get ready for a new one.
Shell has introduced a new Fuel Rewards NETWORK where customers can save $0.10/gallon for every $50 purchased at various grocery stores, diners, and through online shopping.
The FRN program has a seperate card, which can either be mailed to customers or be available at Shell locations.
This FRN card needs to be linked up with a credit/debit card in order for the savings to work.
Once $50 is spent using your credit/debit card linked with the FRN at participating locations, customers are eligible to use the $0.10/gallon-off savings. After the use, all of the points start over again (just like how the Kroger/Hilander stuff works).
So where can people around here earn the savings?
Mainly, people around here will earn the rewards by online shopping at such places as: Advance Auto Parts, Apple Store, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, Holiday Inn Express, Home Depot, iTunes, JC PEnney, Kohl's, Land's End, Lowe's, Macy's, Nike Store, Nordstrom, Office Depot, Office Max, Old Navy, Overstock, Sears, Staples, Target and Vera Bradley.
There are very few places in Northwest Illinois where you can grocery shop or eat at and earn Fuel Rewards. Places to eat at in the region include Manny's Too (Fulton), Happy Joe's (Geneseo), Gene's Place (Rockford) and Fried Green Tomatoes (Galena), along with a few more places in the Iowa Quad Cities and Chicagoland. Grocery shopping opportunities are extremely rare, as the closest place to do such and earn points is the Pick 'n Save in Monroe, Wisc.
From what I understand, the $50 is collective - meaning you can spend $10 at Manny's Too, $10 at the Apple Store, $10 at Pick 'N Save, $10 at Fried Green Tomatoes, and $10 at Vera Bradley in the same day, and get your Rewards.
Learn more here:
https://www.fuelrewards.com/fuelrewards.html
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