Your Questions Answered Again

So, uh, a few of you may have noticed that I've fallen a little behind on my email. Which, no offense, has been so worth it.



Doesn't this make you want to chuck your laptop into the Atlantic?

Maybe it's just me.

Anyway, most of your emails revolve around questions or comments that are similar to one another, so I thought I'd just simplify and respond to some of the sort of generic ones here. Feel free to leave anything more specific in the comments.


Should I refinance my five year adjustable rate mortgage or ride out the low interest rates?

I've gotten this question so often lately that I'm already typing, Is yours based on the London market? before I read the entire email. Because if it is, then it's time to start paying attention to the changes, projections, and nutcases who swear there's going to be an eight percent rate hike between now and next Christmas. This is a good place to start. Do I think brisk rises are right around the corner? No. So what would I do if I were you? Nothing. Absolutely nada. Does that mean I'm advising you to do the same? Not necessarily. It depends on your specific financial situation, your personal goals, and what happens with the LIBOR or whatever market your Index is based off of. Sorry, I don't have a crystal ball.


What motivates you?

Living with my hot husband. And our four peanuts. And The World's Ugliest Kitchen.

No, seriously, I don't know. Please stop asking me.

I will say that I can recall three or four elementary school report cards that had extremely self motivated written into the section titled Teacher's Notes, though one of them was right beside a reminder that I would be strictly disciplined if I ever kicked Principal Osterlo in the shins again.

So I may have always been this way.

What paint brand do you recommend?

I don't. Though quality does vary quite a bit based on brands, application technique and care are more relevant to the value.

How can I protect myself when choosing a contractor?

I guess I could launch into a conversation about contracts and referrals and deposits and such, but to be honest, they don't necessarily always matter. Whether it's a general laborer or a master tradesman, you can easily interview three or four dozen of them, before you meet one that's fantastic.

And then suddenly, you'll find yourself compelled to name your firstborn after the plumber.


So I think that covers it. I love those of you who care enough to write me, and I apologize for not getting back to you sooner.

p.s. If you'd like to ask me a question feel free, but I may have already answered it here or here.

UPDATE: For those who have asked, that suit is by Paula Hermanny for Vix from their 2008 collection.