The Transcript of Our Income Tax Return

income taxes
A couple of weeks ago, while recovering from the Great Backup Accident of 2010, I shared How to Get a Copy of Your Federal Tax Return. I was told by the agent I spoke with that it would take a “couple of weeks” to get the transcript back, since I'd called in with my information, and he also told me the transcript would “contain every line used on my income tax return”. Well, it turns out that wasn't exactly correct.… Read the rest

Mastercool Cooler Owner Manual – Where To Find One

Just Stuff
The Mastercool cooler is popular in Arizona, and Mr. A receives requests to install them occasionally as they are said to cool better than typical evaporative coolers. These units apparently also last longer than most, so it is not uncommon to learn that the home owner has already acquired a used model, and of course the owner manual or installation guide is not included with these units. AJ and I are skilled at searching the Internet but this Mastercool search… Read the rest

Did I Get a New Washing Machine or Not?

saving money
A couple of weeks ago I was trying to decide whether we should buy a new washing machine, or try to stick with our current machine. Mr. A and I were having a hard time forking out $400 or more on a washing machine which was working, aside from having a small tub, and oh, that pesky stopping mid-cycle problem which had escalated. It was stopping mid-cycle with great regularity, right at 17 minutes into the cycle. To keep things… Read the rest

When I Approve of Filing Bankruptcy

credit cards
One of my friends called me today, very upset about a situation going on with her mother. I can't really go into much detail, since I don't know much.  I do know that her father passed away five years ago and there wasn't any retirement money. Her mom's health is failing, she is in her seventies, with no retirement or savings. Her mother nets about $1400 since $400 of it is being garnished by one credit card company.  Another is… Read the rest