Is date night to a fancy gas station acceptable?

 


Date Night on a Dime: Cheap and Cheerful Ideas

Date nights don't have to break the bank! Here are a few budget-friendly ideas to keep the romance alive:

  • Picnic in the Park: Pack a basket with your favorite treats, find a scenic spot, and enjoy a leisurely evening under the stars.
  • Museum Hopping: Many museums offer free admission nights or discounted rates. Explore local art, history, or science exhibits.  
  • Hike or Bike: Enjoy the outdoors with a scenic hike or bike ride. Pack a water bottle and some snacks for a romantic adventure.  
  • Board Game Night: Dust off those board games and settle in for a cozy night of competition and laughter.
  • Stargazing: Find a secluded spot away from city lights and spend an evening marveling at the stars. Bring a blanket and some warm drinks.
  • Home-Cooked Meal: Skip the pricey restaurant and cook a delicious meal together at home. Put on some music and enjoy each other's company.
  • Volunteer Together: Give back to your community by volunteering at a local shelter or participating in a community event.

Remember, the most important ingredient for a successful date night is spending quality time together.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or relationship advice.


Stupid News: Week of February 17


Here's what you missed on this week's Stupid News:
-A man uses a port-a-potty as a deer blind.
-A woman wants a refund after a psychic's reading about her love life is wrong.
-A woman is in trouble for stabbing her lover
-A woman is accused of putting pre sucked skittles in a former lover's gas tank
-A French rapper went to extreme lengths to promote himself


The woes of a new car purchase.

Navigating the Car Market: A Guide to Smart Buying

Buying a car can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can drive away with a great deal. Here's your guide to navigating the car market effectively:

1. Define Your Needs and Budget:

  • Needs: What kind of car do you need? Consider size, fuel efficiency, passenger capacity, and cargo space.
  • Budget: Determine how much you can realistically afford. Factor in not just the monthly payment, but also insurance, gas, and maintenance costs. Get pre-approved for a loan from your bank or credit union before visiting dealerships. This gives you negotiating power.

2. Research and Compare:

  • Models: Research different makes and models that fit your needs. Read reviews, compare features, and check reliability ratings. Websites like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Edmunds are excellent resources.  
  • Pricing: Understand the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and the invoice price (what the dealer paid for the car). Knowing this helps you negotiate effectively. Look for incentives and rebates.
  • Dealerships: Compare prices and offers from multiple dealerships. Don't be afraid to walk away if you're not happy with the deal.

3. Test Drive and Inspection:

  • Test Drive: Take a thorough test drive to assess the car's handling, comfort, and features.  
  • Inspection: For used cars, get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic. This can reveal hidden problems and save you money in the long run.  

4. Negotiation and Financing:

  • Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate the price. Focus on the out-the-door price, which includes all fees and taxes. Don't be afraid to counteroffer.  
  • Financing: If you're financing, compare loan rates from different lenders, including your bank or credit union and the dealership. Don't feel pressured to use the dealer's financing if you find a better rate elsewhere.  

5. Final Steps:

  • Read the Contract: Carefully review all the paperwork before signing. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions.
  • Warranty: Understand the warranty coverage and any available extended warranties.

Tips for Success:

  • Timing: Consider buying at the end of the month or quarter when dealerships are more likely to meet sales quotas.
  • Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don't get emotionally attached to a specific car. Knowing you can walk away gives you leverage.
  • Take Your Time: Don't rush the process. Buying a car is a big decision, so take your time to do your research and make sure you're getting a good deal.

By following these tips, you can navigate the car market with confidence and drive away with the car you want at a price you can afford.


The Four Couples you need to know about

Emily Wood, host of "At Home with Emily", sits down with prominent couples in the Ozarks to talk about their journey to finding love and the work behind relationships.

You can listen to the full series at Around the Ozarks. 


Did you see this? The deep of the sea seeks sunlight

 

 

She lives in the depths of the sea, yet the rare deep-sea anglerfish was spotted near the ocean's surface.
Anglerfish are fascinating creatures that inhabit the deepest, darkest parts of the ocean. These bizarre-looking fish are known for their unique hunting technique, which involves using a bioluminescent lure to attract prey.

Here are some key facts about anglerfish:

  • Appearance: Anglerfish have a distinctive appearance, with a large head, a wide mouth filled with sharp teeth, and a fleshy "lure" that protrudes from their head. This lure glows in the dark, attracting unsuspecting fish.  
  • Habitat: Anglerfish live in the deep sea, where sunlight doesn't reach. They are found in all oceans, typically at depths of 200 to 2,000 meters (660 to 6,600 feet   
  • Hunting: Anglerfish are carnivores that feed on smaller fish and crustaceans. They use their bioluminescent lure to attract prey, and then snap them up with their powerful jaws.  
  • Reproduction: Anglerfish have a unique reproductive strategy. In some species, the male is much smaller than the female and fuses himself to her body, becoming a permanent sperm donor.  
  • Recent Sightings: Recently, there have been some rare sightings of anglerfish in shallower waters than usual. This has sparked interest among scientists, who are trying to understand why these deep-sea creatures are venturing into shallower areas.  

Anglerfish are a testament to the incredible diversity of life in the ocean. Their unique adaptations and behaviors make them one of the most fascinating creatures in the deep sea. As scientists continue to explore the ocean's depths, we are sure to learn even more about these enigmatic fish.


When do you teach kids about money?

Annie Jones says with her kids decided to start investing with the money that they were gifted at Christmas.
It's never too early to start teaching kids about money! Here's a breakdown:

  • Early Childhood (Ages 3-6):

    • Basic Concepts: Introduce the idea of money, different coins and bills, and how to count them.  
    • Playful Learning: Use board games, play stores, and pretend money to make learning fun.  
    • Saving Basics: Introduce the concept of saving with a piggy bank or small jar.  
  • Elementary School (Ages 7-12):

    • Earning Money: Introduce the concept of earning money through chores or allowances.  
    • Spending and Saving: Teach them to divide their money between spending, saving, and giving to charity.  
    • Value of Money: Help them understand the value of money by comparing prices and making choices.
  • Teen Years (Ages 13+):

    • Budgeting: Introduce basic budgeting concepts, including tracking expenses and creating a budget.  
    • Financial Goals: Help them set financial goals (e.g., saving for a car, college).  
    • Investing Basics: Introduce the concept of investing and different types of investments (age-appropriate).

Key Takeaways:

  • Start Early: Even young children can grasp basic money concepts.  
  • Make it Fun: Use games, activities, and real-life examples to keep learning engaging.
  • Be Patient and Consistent: Teaching financial literacy takes time and consistency.
  • Lead by Example: Children learn by observing your own financial habits.

By starting early and providing ongoing guidance, you can equip your children with the financial knowledge and skills they need to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives.


You Missed This: Stupid News, week of Valentine's Day

Here's what you missed in this week's segments of Stupid News:
-A thief who has been in trouble before is now deemed loyal
-You know how egg prices are through the roof? Now thousands of eggs have been stolen.
-A man says he has the right to burn because he's a sovereign citizen
-Asking for direction in Osage Beach leads to arrest
-The Memphis Zoo allows you to name a turd after your ex.... for a donation.


At Home With Emily: Transforming a Dream

Hi, it's me, Julie. If you caught the show today, you know that Emily Wood joined the show.

She launched her podcast back in the fall. From first listen, I was enamored. Leaving behind one dream for another is hard. As I listened, I related deeply. I couldn't pause the episode. I think a lot of people have learned to mourn one dream while finding joy in a new reality.  When Emily agreed to join the show for a moment, I was thrilled. As promised, I have linked both the video and audio version of her first podcast here.

In the first episode of At Home with Emily, Emily Wood sits down with licensed counselor, Lauren Stassel, to talk about change. Where has Emily been since she left news? What was the breaking point that caused Emily to turn away from her dream career? Find out all that and more NOW on At Home with Emily.


GREAT DEBATE: SO many women are SAYING THIS about online grocery shoppers.

 

The host of The Place on Ky3, Alyssa Kelly,  joins the show to discuss.

There isn't a single reason why all women would prefer female grocery shoppers. Here are some possible factors:

  • Shared Experiences: Women may feel more comfortable discussing dietary restrictions, preferences for specific brands, or cooking styles with another woman who likely shares similar experiences.
  • Understanding of Needs: Women may feel that another woman has a better understanding of their needs and preferences, such as specific brands for menstrual products or sensitivity to certain ingredients.
  • Trust and Rapport: Building rapport and trust can be easier between women, leading to a more personalized and enjoyable shopping experience.
  • Support for Women-Owned Businesses: Some women may prioritize supporting women-owned businesses, which may include grocery stores or delivery services staffed by women.

It's important to remember that these are just potential reasons, and individual preferences vary greatly.

Disclaimer: This response aims to provide a neutral and objective perspective.