Image from RusticConnection.com

Interior spaces should appeal to your family and guests. It’s unpleasant to spend time in a home that presents a cold atmosphere. When beginning a decorating project it’s important to think your plan through.

For example, if you own a log cabin, you need proper rustic décor. There are simple and efficient ways to make your cabin warm and inviting. On the same note, if you’re enhancing a home, you’ll want the interior decorating to make it memorable to your guests. When your home or lodge is embellished well, you’ll be giving your guests the gift of cozy memories each time they visit.

A warm atmosphere

Typical lodge décor offers a bucolic atmosphere. One of the easiest and most effective tricks is sometimes overlooked. Rustic heat registers make all the difference in the world when promoting warm ambiance.

Just look around a lodge or log cabin that has off-colored and unattractive vents. It takes away from what would otherwise be an accomplished decorating project. Rustic heating vents are easy to install. This is a positive step towards your overall decorating goals.

Light up a room

Rustic lighting can also help. This is an area that is also often neglected. Take advantage of the many unique styles; each will add magic to any room. Everything from chandeliers to post mount lights are available.

A mix of ranch island lights and a showy illuminated piece will make a statement. An amber mica desk lamp could bring charm to any den or study. Other options include pinecone, fish, bear, and twig designs for lighting of rustic décor. Square lanterns make for a truly rustic take on sconce lighting. The idea is to bring the outdoors to the inside of your log cabin or lodge. Create an environment that feels adventurous!

Get down to it

Another method for decorating success is to choose the right rugs. They are an important helper to bring warmth to your rooms. Rustic rugs come in sizes that accommodate any area.

Rugs are a main attraction that liven up any log cabin or lodge. Included among the many appropriate rustic designs are Navajo and Western rugs. There is also a line of rugs designed specifically for lodge décor with rich, earthy tones. Colors add interest and rugs are an effortless way to bring it all together.

Take it outside

Don’t forget the necessities needed on the outside. It’s a shame when people work hard to achieve a certain look and then skip over noticeable outdoor features.

Mailboxes and house numbers are objects that emphasize an expression. Address markers that appear to be made of bark set the mood for visitors before they cross the threshold. Mailboxes also can make a distinctive statement. They are what passers-by see most often, and something you see every day. There is a wide variety to choose from online that include styles perfect for any setting.

Bring it on home

Everyone wants their dinner guests to feel right at home. These uncomplicated and sometimes overlooked rustic décor ideas can be done easily at any time. Maybe your lodge or log cabin just needs a facelift. There are trouble-free ways to create a fresh look. These decorative ideas will work in any type of space, be it in the middle of nowhere or the middle of the city.

The way things are going, small businesses are going to need more than that. What about a cash advance for all? (Photo: flickr.com)

The U.S. has finally traveled out of the dark ages of recession, or so it seems, because a few people I know have had to utilize cash advance loans to keep their businesses afloat. Many of financial hardships that people are facing aren’t spewing forth from a lack of effort. Typically, recoveries from recession in the United States are lead by small businesses. It’s during this time that small businesses should be springing forth, and advancing the growth of the current economic state.

Positives of This Recession Break

The positive side of a “recession breather” is that small businesses can lease or buy fairly cheap commercial property while they prepare for financial growth and industry expansion. My friend and newbie online business owner Carl R. said, “I believe that in up to six months from now, the unemployment rate should scale back down to the eight percent, or maybe even five percent mark.” At that point, we should be celebrating and enjoying life, because small businesses would provide four out of five new jobs for Americans.

Is There a Dark Side to This?

Unfortunately, if we do happen to regress into another dreaded recession, falling from the “recession breather” we’re currently in, it could go down this way: unemployment could crawl “way above” 10 percent. That would definitely put us into another funk. Commercial Real Estate values would sink more than they expand, due to a lack of small business expansion. When small businesses refuse to expand, they react by rebuffing the notion of hiring, because of the possible lack of expansion. The concept is similar to a revolving wheel. Small businesses are the rise and fall of our country’s financial destiny. Small businesses fear the thought of consistently changing company policies and creating rigid changes in energy, union membership and health care matters. In this case, unfortunately, a cash advance loan wouldn’t help my friend Carl.

There are wonderful possibilities as to how small business power could signal an economic charge against financial woes and provide recession remission. However, the reality is that small businesses still aren’t hiring, and most are aware of the facts presented here.

Some Businesses are Doing Better than Others

Some of the conglomerates like McDonald’s, Green Mountain Coffee and Panera Bread have weathered the current recession, either by keeping profits at a set high or improving their sales figures. However, not all restaurants are operated and provide as much convenience as fast-food chains Most use and need credit lines to run their businesses.

Will President Obama Save Small Business?

There are numerous issues involved in the recovery of small business. Energy and union labor are two big issues worrying small business owners. President Obama’s plans for health care are a current worry as well. Inflation and commodity prices that determine the costs of food production and delivery all play a key factor in the anxiousness small business owners are feeling about what’s ahead in the upcoming months.

Michael Lind had some things to say on Salon.com about the ideas and future plans for Obamacare, in that it practically places small businesses on a financial “sacrificial altar.” I won’t delve into the intricacies of his statements, but if Mr. Lind’s words represent the thoughts of President Obama, and congressional Democrats (who poor and middle class people have been hoping would rescue our country from its existing financial position), small businesses will only be able to dream of expansion.

Not a Storybook Ending

The sad truth is that locked down small businesses won’t start hiring, and the result will be that the current commercial property bomb might not be defused in time. And I’m sure that no one wants to see America fall prey to the explosion of a second recession. Thankfully, a cash advance loan is there if – or when – you need one.

Apply for a Cash Advance HERE!

A protein inside a protein inside a protein, like this turducken, is called a "ballotine."

This week’s “Top Chef: Las Vegas” really increased the intensity — and I, for one, ate it up. The five remaining chefs were clearly the best, the cream of the crop. Still, I thought the judges made the right decision at elimination time. Even though I was not surprised, I was prepared to be, thus leaving me on the edge of my seat from the moment Jen said “turducken” during the quickfire challenge.

The quickfire challenge, articulated by Bocuse d’Or vetran Gavin Kaysen, was to cook a protein inside a protein inside a protein, hence Jen’s turducken joke. The Bocuse d’Or is the yearly “food olympics” in France. A turducken is a duck stuffed inside a chicken, which is stuffed inside a turkey. I wonder if I’d need a small personal loan to afford all three of those.

Welcome back

Birds all over the world rejoiced when they discovered that Jen actually wanted to work with seafood, which she says is her specialty. She made calamari steak, shiso and salmon all rolled up like sushi. It was pretty and apparently pretty tasty. Padma said “welcome back” after she tasted Jen’s dish.

So why all this talk about Jen? She won the quickfire. I thought the most delicious sounding dish was Kevin’s bacon-encrusted fried catfish, but alas, the television that transmits flavor has not yet been invented. Ahem. Anyway, Jen won an extra 30 minutes to cook during the elimination challege, which was — not surprisingly — for the chefs to prepare a Bocuse d’Or style dish, presented on a giant mirrored platter and everything.

Stuck in the moment

Eli says in a video on Broadway’s web site that he “got a little caught up in the situation … and the magnitude of what was happening.” I think most of the chefs fell victim to the same thing. I can’t really blame them: The winner of this challenge was promised $30,000. Despite the fact that all five of these chefs have put forth great performances throughout the season, all of them had technical problems with their dishes, except Kevin, whose dish was simply deemed too simple.

Everyone undercooked their dishes, except Kevin, so Kevin won. Judges called his dish “elementary,” but he still came out on top. This mark’s Kevin’s fifth elimination challenge win. It was a tad disappointing to watch the judges analyze such mediocre performances this late in the game, but I guess we just have to chalk it up to nerves and move on.

Looking forward to next week

In the spirit of moving on, I can’t wait to see the four very best chefs, who also happen to be my personal favorites, compete next week. We know from the preview that for the quickfire, the contestants must prepare a dish on a train — on the way to a new, far away place!

Based on the fact that he has won more challenges than anyone, logic points to the fact that Kevin will come out the overall winner on “Top Chef: Las Vegas,” but we’ve been surprised before. Was I the only one who was shocked when Hosea won “Top Chef” last season? Who do you think will win this season?

Stop playing tug-of-war with your credit card company.

You are overwhelmed with debt. You have eight credit cards that are all maxed out. Making the minimum payments is causing much financial stress, and you are not making any headway on getting out of debt. What can you do? Get help, get debt counseling, find someone who can help you with the necessary information to manage your debt.

Today, many people feel that securing a debt consolidation loan is the best option. A debt consolidation loan is a single loan, which pays off other loans and specific lines of credit. It’s likely that you have seen advertisements, and the claims that are made by these firms seem to have a measure of validity. Are debt consolidation loans a good idea for you? Let’s take a look and see if a debt consolidation loan is right for you.

Debt consolidation can decrease stress

A major benefit of a debt consolidation loan is that you are obligated to make one payment instead of many. For people who mismanage their bills, this can be a great stress reliever. Obviously, managing your bills with one payment makes managing your finances much easier.

Save money with lower interest

Secondly, most debt consolidation loans will provide the borrower with reduced interest rates. The most common type of debt consolidation loan is generally a home equity loan or second mortgage. Because a mortgage or home equity loan is a secured debt, the interest rates will be significantly lower.

With a secured loan comes the added benefit of a lower monthly payment. This perhaps is the best benefit to securing a consolidation loan. If you are like most families, you have a certain amount of money every month. That money is distributed to various creditors and expenses. If the total sum of that money is lower, obviously you will realize the benefit.

Simplify your financial situation

The benefit of having one creditor means that if you do suffer financial difficulties you will deal with one creditor instead of numerous phone calls from a number of different creditors. If you have ever experienced creditor phone calls you most certainly will count this as a benefit.

If your debt consolidation loan is a home-equity loan, you will also get a tax break each year. While credit card interest rates are not typically deductible, the full interest amount is deductible on home-equity loans. Subsequently this is an added benefit for you.

Don’t be too hasty

The negatives to consolidation loans are that it is easier for you to get back into debt. With more money left over at the end of the month the your credit cards all freed up, you may end up in the same spot you were when you took out your debt consolidation loan.

The most obvious negative to a consolidation loan that is secured with a home is you run the risk of losing that home. Because your consolidation loan is backed by your house, failure to make payments in a timely fashion could result in foreclosure.

Times should be a-changin’

Consolidation loans serve as a remedy for many people to relieve financial difficulty. For others, it may lead them to more financial difficulty. Consolidation loans are not for everyone, and everyone should evaluate their situation and know their level of fiscal responsibility.

The bottom line is, if you have mismanaged your finances in the past, you are at risk to do so again unless you make some significant changes. Weigh your options carefully, and plan accordingly.

Tim and Heidi image from Wikimedia.

Once again, “Project Runway” has managed to remind me that I know absolutely nothing about fashion. Either that or the people who get to decide what is good fashion are crazy. Irina, who did show she was a very good designer throughout the season, was the “Project Runway” winner.

If she’d won based on the individual challenges throughout the season, I would have understood completely. However, I thought the collection she sent down the runway at Bryant Park was bizarre and even ridiculous. Shows how much I know. Of course, the person writing this is wearing sneakers, jeans and a hoodie. But it’s casual Friday at the best payday loans finding company in the world!

It’s not just me

However, I am somewhat comforted by the fact that I’m not the only person who thought Irina’s collection on the “Project Runway” season six finale was just weird. “If this is where fashion is going, I am resigning myself to jeans and T-shirts for the rest of my life,” one of my viewing buddies remarked as Irina’s almost-all-black “woman warrior” collection went down the runway.

We definitely agreed that her line was based on women in old sci-fi movies. Another friend called it “the fashion that the ’80s thought the future would have.” Before you get upset at us for being catty, remember, she won. We’re the idiots, apparently.

Our choice for ‘Project Runway’ winner

In case you are wondering, we all agreed that Carol Hannah should have won with her more practical, modern-looking line. Althea’s looked to me like a revival of the shabby-chic look that dawned a few years ago, but it was way too shabby, not very chic, and soooo two years ago.

My cousin in San Diego even agreed that Carol Hannah should have won, but she was the first to be told she was out and get auf wiedersehened. Clearly, the point of Bryant Park fashion week is not to display clothing that people would actually wear. Every season of “Project Runway” feature some talk about “show pieces” and “translating” what is on the runway into “real clothing.” I still don’t get the point. After six seasons of “Project Runway,” I probably never will.

‘Project Runway’ finale recap

The commercials promoting the “Project Runway” finale made a big deal about the fact that Tim Gunn said he was “going to lose it.” Yes, he did say that, but apparently Tim Gunn’s version of “losing it” is emphatically adjusting his spectacles, then propping his chin upon his fist and making an angry face. Oh, if only we could all control our tempers so well.

The editors also seemed to highlight Carol Hannah being sick, Irina being short and bossy with her assistant Gordanna and Althea almost crying when Irina — once again — implied she was copying her. Carol Hannah and Althea both got major kudos for their “surprise” 13th looks, but of course that footage was probably meant to throw us of the scent of who would be the season six “Project Runway” winner. Check out photos of Irina’s beffudling — er, I mean Irina’s winning collection.

It was designed to break your heart. And its falling value has an impact on all our lives. (Photo: flickr.com)

Under both the Bush and Obama administrations, U.S. government spending – financed by government borrowing – has skyrocketed, resulting in a prolonged decline of the value of the dollar. This trend escalated with the Federal Reserve’s reaction to the 2008 subprime mortgage crisis and the dramatic drop in interest rates. Today, with interest rates still low and government borrowing still rising, the dollar continues its steady decline. Recently the dollar has reached new all time lows against the Euro and other major currencies resulting in a lot of concern about the dollar’s viability internationally. It has even been argued in some quarters that the United States may have its national credit rating lowered.

Does it Really Matter to Most Americans?

Economic optimists point out that most Americans do not travel abroad for significant periods of time, meaning that currency conversion rates do not matter to them. They also argue that a weak dollar helps the economy by stimulating American exports. Both of these arguments are valid, but they fail to take into account the ways that a declining dollar does affect the domestic economy. While your average American may not have to worry about converting his cash into euros, your average American does buy a lot of imported goods and though the weak dollar does help exports, exports constitute less than 15 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), so only a few benefit.

The Weak Dollar and the Cost of Imports

Goods that are imported into the United States, even if the trade is denominated in dollars, are directly affected by the value of the dollar. The weaker the dollar is, the less value it has abroad, so those countries exporting to the United States have to increase the price to compensate for this. Among the most vital of these imports is oil, upon which the United States is largely dependent. A weaker dollar means that oil and all of its derivatives increase in price. The same can be said for all imported goods, from clothing and textiles to components in ostensibly “American-made” products. The lower the dollar, the more expensive all imported goods are to the average American consumer.

Dollar Value and Foreign Investment

The United States has been heavily reliant on foreign investment for decades now. Foreign investment in government debt is what keeps the federal government solvent. Similarly, foreign investment in our financial system – banks, major corporations, securities markets – is also essential to keeping the economy sound and money circulating through the system. However, since virtually all of these investments are denominated in dollars, a declining dollar discourages foreign investment. Since the U.S. requires this foreign investment, the logical answer is to make American investments more attractive by increasing the interest rates, but this significantly hurts domestic debtors.

Yes, the Declining Value of the Dollar Does Matter

Although most Americans do not have to worry about directly converting their dollars to foreign currencies, virtually all Americans do have to deal with the increased price of imported goods, from gasoline to running shoes. The point that the weak dollar helps American exports is also valid, but the export sector amounts to less than 15 percent of the economy, whereas the more expensive imports affect virtually all Americans. Further, since the government and financial industry have to encourage continued foreign investment, it means that interest rates are likely to increase, putting increased pressure on domestic debtors, from mortgage holders to people with large credit card bills.

Is There Anything You Can Do About This?

The factors behind the declining dollar are macroeconomic in nature and the key player, the Federal Reserve, is not directly accountable to the public. Those with large investment portfolios may want to consider diversifying some of their holdings into assets denominated in other currencies to serve as a hedge, but this is only an option for a minority of Americans. There may also be some value in investing your retirement and savings in international mutual funds, those based on foreign assets. Otherwise, there are few options available to your average American. Nevertheless, it is important to understand that the declining dollar does directly impact you.

Sandra Bullock image from Flickr.

“The Blind Side” has some really tough competition at the box office this weekend, thanks to the ravenous “Twilight” fan base. However, anyone looking for a more grown-up movie can skip “New Moon” and take  your instant cash loans over to “The Blind Side.”

Pete Hammond from Boxoffice Magazine goes so far as to say that Sandra Bullock delivers an Oscar-worthy performance as main character Leigh Anne Touhy. Hammond compares Bullock to Julia Roberts as Erin Brockovich.

‘The Blind Side’ movie reviews

“The Blind Side” tells the story of Michael Oher, who was a first round draft pick this year for the Baltimore Ravens. However, a few years ago, he was a homeless, uneducated boy from a broken home. The wealthy, white Touhys took in the “oversized” African-American, says IMDB, and “groomed (him) into an athletically and academically successful NFL prospect.”

Joe Leydon from Variety says “The Blind Side” is “Another uplifting and entertaining feel-good, fact-based sports drama.” Heaping more praise on the star of the show, Emanuel Levy says “Sandra Bullock renders a strong performance as the feisty Southern belle in this inspirational sports saga.”

Breakouts and books

In his first lead role, Quinton Aaron plays the other main character, Michael Oher. Leydon says:

“Aaron gracefully treads a fine line, playing Michael as neither dullard nor idiot savant, but making him emotionally vulnerable, painfully self-aware and surprisingly resilient. Better still, Aaron more than holds his own opposite Bullock.”

The film is based on the book “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game,” and “The Blind Side” movie reviews are typical of films based on books. Many critics comment that the film doesn’t have much depth or subtext. “What you see is what you get,” says Levy. Critics consider it a fault when movies don’t contain the complexity and layering that books do, but most movie theater audiences would likely walk out of a film that contained all of the elements of a book complaining that it was long and slow.

Can’t win ‘em all

Of course, not every film critic gave “The Blind Side” a good review. Mark Palermmo from Coast, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, says the film doesn’t contain “understanding or identification, just white self-congratulation.” Even reveiws that were positive overall, such as Michael Rechtshaffen’s, said that the movie contained “missed opportunities and surface gestures.”

While several reviewers criticize “The Blind Side” for not delving deeper into the complex racial and class themes present in the film, critics such as Ann Hornaday from the Washington Post, see this as a plus: “Viewers get the sense that this isn’t a story about race or redemption or the complexities of class and culture. It’s a story about a person who witnesses need and responds, simply and honestly, with unfussy compassion and authenticity. It’s a story about family.”

Blind predictions

I think this film will be intriguing for American audiences, who are living in a race-obsessed culture. Much like in the film, racial issues are certainly presents everywhere. However, this lack of focus on race that many critics cite will likely be a refreshing aspect for viewers who understand that race is an issue but are tired of having it in the spotlight all the time.

I think obsessive teenagers will drive “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” into the top-earning spot at the box office this weekend. However, I think “The Blind Side” will hold its own by continuing to draw audiences long after  “Twilight” lovers have spent their allowance.

(Photo: flickr.com)

Depositor confidence in the banking system is vital to the working of the modern economy. Banks lend out money assuming that they are not going to face a situation where all their depositors demand to withdraw funds simultaneously. At the same time, depositors entrust their money to the bank, believing they can withdraw it when they need to do so. A hundred years ago, many people still kept their savings at home. Those who deposited money in a bank would often rush to take their money out at the first rumors of trouble. These “runs” on banks were common causes of the bank collapses these depositors feared. The establishment of the FDIC in 1913 was prompted by a financial crisis in 1907 when the US Stock Exchange fell by 50 percent. This triggered many runs on banks and trust companies.

What Happens When a Bank Fails?

As soon as a state bank is unable to pay off all its creditors, the FDIC intervenes. They try to act in a way that does not draw public attention – the last thing they want is to cause a run on the bank. Their staff of bank analysts, accountants and other financial professionals makes a detailed survey of the bank’s assets. The aim is both to reach an assessment of the bank’s value as well as uncovering the reason for its failure.

The FDIC has the authority to close a bank, or alternatively take control of its management. Generally the preferred approach is to seek a buyer who is interested in taking over the failed bank. The FDIC is willing to offer inducements to buyers of failed banks. For example, they might agree to reimburse the takeover bank for 80 percent of the losses it is going to incur through acquiring delinquent loans.

Has Depositor Confidence Been Damaged Beyond Repair?

FDIC statistics show that over a 120 banks have collapsed in 2009 and the year is still not over. Compare this with 2007, when there were just three bank collapses. The FDIC recognizes the need to address public concern over loss of deposits due to bank collapses. This is one of the prime reasons why they guarantee deposits of up to $100,000 in banks with FDIC insurance. Sheila Bair, Chairman of the FDIC, seeks to reassure Americans that the crisis is under control: “Our projection right now is bank failures will continue at a pretty good clip through 2011. Again, we’re prepared for it; we’re ready for it. The rate of healing in the economy will drive the rate of healing of the banking sector.”

Are Bank Failures Unmitigated Disasters?

To the wealthiest depositors and investors who stand to lose a considerable amount, there is no doubt that a bank collapsing is very bad news. Management and employees are also going to be concerned over the loss of jobs that is almost inevitably going to happen. However, from a macro-economic perspective, failure is not necessarily a great disaster. While the recent spate of bank collapses has certainly damaged confidence in the U.S. economy, some economists argue that over the long term there may be benefits. The disappearance of the weakest banks is viewed by these analysts as a healthy development that strengthens the economy.

Image from HeatRegisters.com.

When you’re trying to restore your craftsman home to its original beauty, details matter. When I first started working on my craftsman, my primary concern was about making sure I that had a functional and efficient heating system. Living in a dream home can be a nightmare if it is drafty all the time!

Once I had installed new windows and upgraded to a more efficient furnace, I started looking at other options to make my home warm and inviting. As I was sitting in my living room with the furnace on, I noticed how unattractive my air vents were; the paint was chipping, it was filled with 90-year-old dust, and the rusty metal looked tacky against the backdrop of my beautiful hardwood floors. I was resolved to get my heat registers looking great again.

Hard-pressed at the hardware store

I started by looking at Lowe’s and Home Depot for a series of heat registers for my cold air returns and air vents. What I found was kind of depressing. Each store only carried one brand, and they just looked cheap. My hope was that upgrading my heat registers would be distinctive and subtly enhance each room’s appearance.

Unfortunately, the brand-x stuff at the big box stores just didn’t have the period look I was hoping for. What’s worse, I  couldn’t even find the proper size for my cold air return anywhere.

That big shopping mall in the sky

Undeterred, I decided to start looking for heat registers online and found a lot of great options. I found that there were many good websites out there for heat registers and air vents. They have dozens of different options for every era of craftsman home and lots of good information at the bottom of each page.

First I considered whether I wanted a metal or wood heat register for my living room — a tough choice indeed. The wood air vents have a natural character and can be stained to match other woods. The selection of different wood options is truly amazing, with 143 different custom woods available from Afrormosia to Wenge! Even as all of these choices were very tempting, my husband and I eventually decided to go for the more distinctive brass heat register options.

Period pieces

What we found was a really large selection of different brass heat registers to match styles of different periods. It was a very enjoyable process of sorting through the furniture and décor we had in each room and deciding what era we would like to emphasize. In the end we decided to install Wellington style solid brass for our living areas and bedrooms. They complement our flooring so nicely, yet stand out as very attractive details to make our home resonate with the elegance of its original construction.

I’m so glad that I didn’t end up purchasing one of the off-the-shelf heat registers from the hardware store and found what I truly wanted online. With a few more furnishings and finishing touches, we are going to be ready for some serious entertaining!

Critics say "New Moon" is built on Taylor Lautner's sex appeal, and apparently that foundation is enough to earn big box office bucks. Image from Wikimedia.

On Rotten Tomatoes, “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” reviews were 70 percent “rotten.” As of now 10 a.m. Friday morning, it has gotten 86 bad reviews. At Metacritic, only 46 percent of the reviews were good. However, I’d bet my emergency money that this film will be among the top box office sellers of all time.

I have discovered time and again that a film’s reviews and its box office sales often do not reflect each other. This may be one of the best examples of this phenomenon to date. “New Moon” box office sales, after last night’s showing at midnight releases, are expected to hit between $85 million and $100 million this weekend.

Breaking hearts and records

Even more amazing, “New Moon” broke the all-time record for most advance tickets sold. On Fandango, while “New Moon” has the record for most advance tickets sold, No. 2 is last night’s re-release of the first “Twilight” movie, which played before “New Moon” in many theaters last night.

It appears Stephanie Zacharek  really wanted this film to be good, but it wasn’t up to par for the Salon.com critic. She wrote: “New Moon offers few of the juicy, go-for-broke romantic pleasures of its predecessor, and the movie is so badly shaped that it’s hard not to blame Weitz as a director.”

Word from the fans

Of course, though good “New Moon” reviews were the minority, they are out there. “New Moon” got 37 good reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. “New Moon is little more than a skillful soap opera, but it’s still enjoyable escapism – even if you’re old and wise enough to see through it,” wrote Anna Smith from Time Out.

“If you’re a romantic at heart who doesn’t mind shelling out $12 to watch a couple of adolescent boy hotties strut their stuff, you might as well just go and enjoy the eye candy. ‘Cause it’s kind of worth it,” wrote David Foucher from EDGE Boston.

Not buying it

Most critics agree with Sonny Bunch from the Washington Times, who wrote “There’s little in the way of forward momentum until the final 30 minutes; stretching out this picture to longer than two hours was indefensible.” Daily Mail, in the UK, says “New Moon” is “Tedious, long-winded and not so much undead as almost entirely devoid of life.”

For those of you who want to hear from an actual “Twihard” who gave it a bad review, Kevin McCarthy from BDK Reviews wrote: “New Moon lacks the chemistry and passion that made Twilight so special. The sequel focuses more on the gratuitous sex appeal of the two lead male stars.”

A solid sales strategy

If McCarthy is right, and the film focuses on sex appeal, “New Moon” box office sales are all set to meet expectations and go through the roof. For decades films have made millions off the sex appeal of the lead characters. The only difference in this decade is that the sexiness keeps getting sexier.

Indeed, Willie Waffle echoes McCarthy’s sentiment, but he gave the film an overall good review. “Gives fans what they want (hot young dudes who don’t wear shirts), and might surprise a few people who didn’t expect much.”

Don't forget the bathroom. Image from Flickr.

Many people balk at putting money into their homes in the current situation. Home prices and values are falling, and equity loans for home improvements are all but impossible to get. With falling values, few people have any equity left.

No one can blame homeowners for not wanting to deplete their savings to invest in something that has a depreciating value. However, homeowners must remember that their homes are still their greatest assets, and even if they can’t build value they can slow the fall.

Choose the Project that Fits Your Budget

If getting a loan is not be a viable option, choosing a project that is appropriate for your budget is very important. There are projects that will increase the value of a home that will fit almost any budget level.

You must choose a project that generates the greatest return on  your investment. As always, try to use the bank’s money if possible, but using your savings could still be worth the investment.

High Cost Projects

When choosing more costly projects, the homeowner needs to think infrastructure and not cosmetics. Projects that add to the longevity and energy efficiency of the home should be at the top of the list. One of the up sides of an economic downturn is that prices for services have fallen, too. In relative terms, it may be more cost effective now to make some major upgrades that you have been putting off.

For example, replacing your current siding with fiber-cement or foam-backed vinyl siding can be done more cheaply now and still net an 87 percent return on investment with energy savings and increased home value upon resale. A valuable room that is often neglected is the bathroom. Realtors estimate that a remodeled bathroom can yield as much as a 71 percent return on investment when you sell a home. Remodeled kitchens net a similar return on investment, as well.

Medium Cost Projects

If you do not have access to enough credit or savings for those projects, there are still significant gains you can make without spending quite as much. One of the highest rates of return on investment is actually found outside the home. The addition of a well-made, well-designed wood deck can get you up to an 81 percent return.

If it cost you $10,000 to build the deck, you could add $8,100 to the selling price of the home. If fiber-cement siding is too costly, upgrading with vinyl siding is still a good investment. Vinyl siding garners about the same return as the wood deck: 81 percent. Even minor kitchen remodeling and upgrades will net you a nice return. Upgrading the countertops alone can bring you a better asking price.

Something is Better than Nothing

Even if you can’t do everything, do something. Your home is the most important piece of your financial portfolio, and doing some work now while prices are down can pay off big down the road. The housing market will rebound someday, and you could get an even higher return when it does.

If you have not yet heard about bank phishing (pronounced “fishing”) it is in your interest to find out about this scam. Phishing is a form of Internet banking fraud that criminals have found is an effective way of stealing, but it does not have the same risk of getting caught as street crime.

The phisher sends out scam e-mails designed to appear as if they come from a genuine bank. For example, you might find in your Inbox an e-mail saying that you are overdrawn by a certain amount and must contact the bank immediately. A link is provided to access additional information. Everything about the e-mail looks genuine. Is there not a good chance you will click on the link and find out what has happened to your account, or maybe you will opt to call the number provided?

That fateful click or call

What is going to happen if you click on this link or call the number listed? A click on the link takes you to a login site that appears, at first glance, to be the official Internet site of your bank. You enter your user name and password, and this information is added to the fraudster’s database. With some clever computer coding, you are then directed to the genuine bank Internet site where you find that you are not logged in. You need to login a second time to access your account. This is not an unusual situation and it is unlikely to arouse suspicion.

Meanwhile, your account details have fallen into criminal hands. In the time it takes you to find out what happened, they are already using your account details to withdraw money, try to take out loans and do other kinds of identity theft crime.

If you call the phone number included in the e-mail, it usually connects you to an operator employed by the phisher. This operator asks you for the personal details of interest to the fraud perpetrator.

Escaping from the Phisher’s clutches

Although the phishing scam operator does a good job imitating your bank’s web site, there are invariably a number of little mistakes which an alert bank customer can identify.

First of all, does your bank know your e-mail? In many cases, your bank does not have a record of your e-mail and so you know immediately that the e-mail is a fraud. Also, the URL supplied is won’t be exactly the URL of your bank. Look carefully for small spelling differences. Most people will not pay attention to these minor differences — you should make it your job to notice them.

A good rule to follow is never to click on a URL found in an e-mail  that says its from your bank. Access your bank’s web site only though the URL bookmarked in your Internet browser. Suspicious emails of this kind should be reported to the bank so appropriate legal action can be taken.

Simpler, golden times for Michael Jackson. Will he and Shmuley Boteach find debt relief soon? (Photo: flickr.com)

Over the years, we witnessed the eccentricity of Michael Jackson. From his constant changing appearance and repeated debt relief missions to his legal issues, we ask ourselves the question: Why did he do it? What lead MJ to go that far? For instance, we remember him dangling his son over a balcony, the constant wearing of surgical masks, his Caucasian/Hispanic children, and him wearing pajamas to his court date. Now that Jackson is dead, it’s morbidly fascinating to see how many of his secrets float to the surface, and which person provides the fishing pole and bait, so to speak.

Shmuley Boteach Documents Time with Jackson

In light of celebrity Rabbi Shmuley Boteach’s “The Michael Jackson Tapes” and new book on the market, Jackson isn’t made to appear realistic, or even human. He’s made to seem even stranger. During 2000 and 2001, Jackson kept in contact with Boteach on a daily basis while he explored Judaism. The two hit it off, considering Boteach complimented Jackson by calling him very handsome and even compared him to another great pop star, Britney Spears (if you can call that a compliment). Jackson then assisted the rabbi by speaking at his forum at Oxford University and revealing the clandestine information that would later form Boteach’s book.

At first read, you’d assume the book should shed light on lots of Michael Jackson’s awkward moments, but it never delivers on that hopeful expectation. In fact, the tapes raise certain questions that could never be answered. Here are four items things left me baffled after reading this book:

MJ’s Shrine to Shirley Temple (True or False?)

In the book, it is said that Michael Jackson had an unusual obsession with Shirley Temple. Jackson said an unidentified guy would travel with him, and the man’s sole responsibility was to set up a room-sized shrine to Shirley Temple before Jackson arrived. This leads a person to ask, “What was up with Michael Jackson’s fixation with children in general?” Remember the days of Jackson hanging out with Emmanuel Lewis and Macaulay Culkin? What made their relationship so cryptic and mysterious was that neither one divulged personal details of their friendship.

Michael and Janet

Boteach’s book never really discusses the true relationship between Michael and his sister, Janet. Some people have been questioning if they really did or didn’t get along. Numerous rumors, as well as Michael Jackson’s confessions, state that he did unfortunately pester Janet. Perhaps this is understandable in light of the treatment Michael received from his father and brothers.

One subject that wasn’t addressed was Janet’s vocals being turned down in the mix on their duet, “Scream.” As usual, rumors were spreading about Michael seeking debt relief right before the recording of the song. People began questioning if Michael tried to sabotage his sister’s solo for him to shine brighter for more album sales. It’s evident that Janet looked up to big brother Michael and wanted to follow in his footsteps. However, Michael Jackson didn’t seem interested in helping her. We could chock this up to his talent simply being greater than hers, or we could leave the subject unanswered as “The Michael Jackson Tapes” does.

MJ: Straight or Asexual?

There have always been questions centered on whether Michael Jackson was actually attracted to women or not. Some people assume that he was merely pretending, but with so little facts to back up his claim of heterosexuality, what is true and what is false? Boteach, however, doesn’t believe that Michael was gay at all, and provides multiple instances where Jackson showed interest in the opposite sex. Katie Couric, Princess Diana, Brooke Shields and Tatum O’Neal have all spent quality time with Michael, though he tells Boteach that he was never intimate with these women because of his bashfulness. Jackson admitted that he’s never had to ask a woman out, because they’ve all asked him first. Alas, the question of Michael Jackson’s true sexual nature will go unanswered in this lifetime.

Michael vs. Madonna. Why the “Beef?”

No one knows or has yet admitted what events transpired between Michael and Madonna to make the King of Pop say that she is “just not a nice person.” He left his comments at that, but the unanswered question is why. What happened between the two to make Jackson, someone who claimed to not dislike anyone in the world, find something objectionable about Madonna? And what made Michael vehemently claim that she was in love with him? The world may never know.

Boteach Provides Interesting Entertainment

There might be some individuals who are bent on glorifying the material Boteach has put together, simply because it has the names Michael Jackson and King of Pop attached. But information that is worth sharing and paying attention gives something to the reader or audience. I’m not 100 percent sure what “The Michael Jackson Tapes” uncover, but maybe all they’re meant for is what Michael Jackson himself gave to us: pure entertainment. And with the entertainment being distributed through Michael Jackson’s branded name, debt relief might forever be a thing of Jackson and Boteach’s financial past.

Image from Flickr.

While Colonial architecture appeared first when Europeans were settling America in the early 1700s, it didn’t cease to exist then. Over the course of the next 300 years, variations of Colonial design remained consistently one of the most popular and enduring styles of architecture.

Colonial décor was inspired by European country homes settlers lived in prior to immigration. However, early American décor was distinct, as it featured clean lines, white walls and minimal embellishments. Why was this so? Some attribute this austerity to the puritanical values held by early Americans, but there was a more practical reality: Very little in the way of material possessions could be transported over the Atlantic by sailing ships.

Minimalism the basis of colonial decor

Much of what is available to the modern colonial decorator is based on that which is practical. For example, the rooster weather vane for telling the direction of the wind, or a simple wooden coat rack, free of embellishment.

Shakers held the belief that watches were an unnecessary indulgence, so they took to keeping only one clock in a home, usually in the dining room or other common area. The fireplace was the heart of a Colonial home. A quality set of cast iron fireplace tools were essential to a warm home and can bring flair to a modern colonial, even if the fireplace was no longer in use.

Colonial revival

As Colonial architecture regained popularity in the 1870s, it was celebrated as an authentic alternative to the excesses of Victorian homes. Still, more ornate wallpapers and handcrafted brass pieces worked their way into the style, so that Colonial Revival was a more opulent impression of an earlier time.

These later homes tended to have florid crown moldings and great columns at the entrances. One element that remained consistent throughout colonial design was the hallmark window shutters. While most shutters are purely decorative now, in early New England they served a very practical purpose of offering additional shelter from the elements.

Modern methods to enhance colonial style

Light switch plates and electrical covers weren’t a feature of early American décor, but they are found in every room in every home across America today. Fortunately, you don’t have to outfit your charming colonial home with those beige plastic plates. From smooth copper to hand-hammered brass, you can buy light switch plates online that match your colonial motif.

Likewise, there are hundreds of other great options for colonial décor online such as rugs, firebacks, classic mail slots and more. You don’t have to haunt antique shops any longer to decorate your home, it is all available at the click of a button.

Not a still from the film, and Halloween was weeks ago. Grow up, people. From Wikimedia Commons

That’s right, teenie-boppers and anyone else really into this whole vampire thing New Moon comes out Nov. 20th, and the New Moon reviews are starting to pour in.  The consensus among critics is that the film – you’ll have to pardon the pun – really BITES.  (Oh how am I NOT supposed to make that joke?) Rotten Tomatoes along some of the really big reviewers have decided that the novelty has worn off, and are giving the film a hiding.  Maybe payday loans for camping gear to await the premiere won’t be worth it.

Rotten Tomatoes

Even though some feel that Rotten Tomatoes is hit and miss at best, it’s one of most popular review sites for film on the internet.  RT gives New Moon a 30% score.  That is unflattering, to say the least.  Some comments from the New Moon page at RT describe the film as “toothless,” “the second bite was stale,” and one of my personal favorites, “if the first installment…was a celebration of teen sulkiness, this film positively drowns in it.” For some reason, I’m waiting for a two word review to come out saying something like…”Lame Moon.”  (Hello Cleveland!)

Roger Ebert and others

Roger Ebert, though he is at times far too kind to some films, didn’t spare the rod, or anything else when it came to this film.  He gave it one star from four, and one and zero star films are the ones that he pulls no punches with, and those are frankly the most entertaining of his reviews.  From his own website:

“New Moon…takes the tepid achievement of Twilight, guts it, and leaves it for undead.”

“The characters in this movie should be arrested for loitering with intent to moan…Their charisma is by Madame Toussad.”

In case you wondered, Madame Toussad’s is a famous museum, or to the point, perhaps the most famous wax museum in the world.

“…sitting through this experience is like driving a pickup in low gear through a sullen sea of Brylcreem.”

Harsh! MTV’s Kurt Loder seemed to like it, saying the film was an improvement over Twilight BUT that “It’s a very silly picture, of course: Given the source material – Stephanie Meyer’s blathery teen novels – how could it not be?” and that lead actress Kirsten Stewart was a good actress in a “wooden role.”

Of course some critics did like it, but heaping praise on a movie that’s already popular and getting huge box office gates is too easy, and not nearly as fun as trashing it.  That said, movie critics are hit and miss at best, and some seem to be bought by studios outright.  (The movie critic in my hometown paper, for instance – oh, you know who you are, and an adult who only gives 4 star reviews only to Disney films is obviously in need of psychological evaluation.)  I wasn’t planning on putting any quick cash towards New Moon tickets so the New Moon reviews make little difference to me, and it looks like you might want to think twice yourself if you listen to critics.

Image from creativechick.blog-city.com.

Contrary to what you may have heard, many people still dream of owning a home. For those who already own a home, benefits may prove to be even more worthwhile. The only way to really make the most of your equity is to take out home equity loans.

Now that you own your home, you should make use of it and open up that equity. With a home equity loan, you can consolidate debts, make major purchases or investments, and put the money toward home improvements — the money is yours, and you can do as you please.

Strategize to maximize profit

Well, actually, the money isn’t yours yet, but it becomes yours as soon as you sell your home. With all home loans, you have to think of every move you make as something for potential profit. You won’t see the rewards of your hard work and dedication until it’s time to sell, then it all comes back around to give you the biggest financial boost of your life.

With your first home, you probably saved up for years just to have enough to make a down payment, then you spent years — probably decades –  paying off the remaining balance through a mortgage. Ne doubt that home appreciated in value, and now you are in position to use the equity that you have built in the form of a home-equity loan.

Home-equity loans not for everyone

Recently the housing market has suffered a serious downturn, and home values are not quite what they were just two years ago. However, if you have been in your home for a significant period of time and have not taken out a home-equity loan in the past, it is likely you have enough equity to aid your financial situation in a significant way. That being said, not every homeowner should secure a home-equity loan.

You must have a plan and purpose for your home-equity loan before starting the application process. While home-equity loans can be very helpful, they can also cause undue strain on your finances.

Don’t become a statistic

Home-equity loans are not free money. You must repay your home-equity loan over time. Many people get into more trouble with home-equity loans than most realize. Your home becomes the collateral for your home-equity loan. Failure to make payments on time can result in a foreclosure. In today’s economy many homes are being lost because borrowers are not able or willing to make home-equity loan payments.

While home-equity has long been a type of savings account for homeowners, home values have depreciated to the point that homes are not considered the investment they once were. It is best to consider why you need or want your home-equity loan and consider the cost. Home equity loans are a great tool for homeowners if used properly. If not, sacrificing your home ownership may become a reality.

(Photo via Bensonkua, Flickr.com)

Much like finding the right personal loan, the number of calories needed on a daily basis is determined by different factors such as your weight, height, age, and activity level. It varies with different people. However, there are some general guidelines on how much daily calories one person really needs.

400 Calorie Fix: Don’t Count Calories – Control them!

Meet Cassandra. She’s a busy mother of three who, like many of us, has a problem with her weight. She said she was terrified when she first heard about the 400 Calorie Fix. However, after using the 400 Calorie Fix strategy, Cassandra said she has lost 6 pounds in just two days!

The people behind the book, 400 Calorie Fix, say the method is not considered a diet, but a way to limit calorie intake by understanding what a 400 calorie meal looks like. Author and Prevention Magazine Editor-in-Chief Liz Vaccariello also dropped in on the Rachael Ray Show to explain how the 400 Calorie Fix formation works.

“The 400 Calorie Fix was inspired by a column where we showed people how to eat four 400 calorie meals a day,” she tells Rachael. “We show you how to eyeball foods, to read menus, so you’re not counting calories, you are controlling it. It’s the easiest weight loss solution ever because it’s one simple rule: you learn to see the world through a 400-calorie lens.”

Let’s Get Real

It seems just about every weight loss program requires you eat their food which, as many of you would agree, are not the most preferred foods out there. You basically have to starve yourself off, or buy expensive supplements to go with it. People have had to apply for a personal loan just to meet most weight loss program standards. With the 400 Calorie Fix, however, you can still eat the type of food you enjoy.

“We came up with that amount because registered dietitians say that’s the amount in a meal that you’re going to remain satisfied, you’re not going to get cravings,” said Vaccariello. “You get a variety of tastes and textures and you’re going to get enough disease-fighting nutrients so you stay healthy.”

The 400 Calorie Fix teaches the reader how to effectively read menus, identify high-calorie red flags and look out for sneaky calories in dressed-up healthy foods. The bottom line is that you know exactly what you’re eating.

Eggo fail. Image from Flickr.

Last time I went grocery shopping, I noticed there was only one flavor of Eggo waffle in the freezer, and it was the plain kind. Luckily, the store brand offered the flavors I was looking for: blueberry and chocolate chip.

I grabbed the off-brand boxes and went on my merry way, not thinking much of it. Little did I know there is an Eggo shortage going on! Two Eggo waffle plants have been shut down, and one reopened while the other still remains closed. A factory in Atlanta shut down in September because of flooding, but it’s open again now. The plant in Tennessee that shut down because of malfunctioning production lines, and it’s still closed.

What’s the big deal?

The thing that has college freshmen, mothers with children in elementary school and my coworker all agitated is that the company has said this Eggo shortage will continue all the way until the summer of 2010! What in the name of quick payday loans are we to do?!

Luckily, I have come up with a few ways to cope with the Eggo shortage. Don’t worry, I am not going to tell you to actually cook in the morning or anything ridiculous like that. I understand all too well the reasons why people buy and eat Eggos. Luckily, I am a late sleeper and I was in college once, so I can help. I have decided to categorize my suggested coping methods into Eggo consumption motivations.

I need breakfast — fast!

One of the most common Eggo consumption styles is the by-hand-on-the-way-out-the-door method. This strategy is embraced by children who don’t get out of bed the first time their mother asks them and grownups who don’t get out of bed the first time their alarm goes off.

The most obvious answer to the Eggo shortage catastrophe is to buy generic frozen waffles. Most stores offer toaster-sized frozen waffles through a store brand. I think there might even be companies besides Eggo that make name-brand frozen waffles.

Of course, this Eggo shortage might be a good time to start experimenting with other quick breakfast items that can be hand-held and don’t really require toppings in a pinch. Pop-Tarts and other toaster pastries are great options and there are tons of flavors nowadays. When you’re in the frozen waffle section, look at the surrounding products. Toaster streudels, microwavable breakfast sandwiches and all kinds of new inventions can provide a super fast breakfast that can be eaten while walking to the bus stop or the car. But not while driving. That’s dangerous.

I don’t want to cook

People have all types of motivations for not wanting to put any more effort into their food besides pressing down the toaster lever. Perhaps they’re very hungry and want to eat right away. For some, it might be because it could be dangerous for them to attempt to use an oven or stove because they’re too … tired.

This is a common problem among college students, who often keep challenging schedules and will definitely be affected by the Eggo shortage. I’d say look to the microwave. Those are pretty safe and easy to use, so invest in bags of microwave popcorn, those Tyson Anytizers things (chicken nuggets) and microwave burritos.

It’s going to be tough, but we’ll get through this Eggo shortage together!

At least Tyra didn't choose herself. Image from Wikimedia.

I am not here to trash talk the “America’s Next Top Model” winner. (OK, maybe a little.) I am happy for her, and I wish her the best. However, I believe that the other finalist, Laura Kirkpatrick, was more deserving of the win.

I’d like to present a three-point, logic-based argument on why. I’m not saying it’s objective — it’s not. But given these factors, I just can’t believe the choice the judges made.

1. Her walk

The “America’s Next Top Model” judges said winner Nicole has a “signature walk,” but really she just has a bad walk. She has no business being on a runway with her bowlegged-ness and her swinging shoulders. She walks like a linebacker. She could definitely be a model for photos to go with articles on how to get easy payday loans, but she should not be ambling down a runway at Fashion Week by any stretch of the imagination.

Miss J felt strongly enough about Nicole’s awkward clumsiness during the Hip-Hop Hula challenge that Miss J blatantly mocked her. So why were Miss J and all of the other judges suddenly defending her horrible walk as “signature”? I have a theory on that, but I’ll save that for the end.

2. Her personality (or lack thereof)

The judges along with many photographers, mentors, agents and others along the way commented on Nicole’s lack of personality. They talked about her monotone voice, chilly demeanor and general social awkwardness. During the commercial shoot they said she came off as a snob, and they were right.

I think Nicole is gorgeous, looks fabulous in photographs and is a very talented model in a lot of ways. However, this brings me to my final arguments for why the “Top Model” winner was the wrong choice.

3. Laura is better

Laura’s walk is better. Laura’s personality is better. Laura’s legs are better. Everyone agreed all along the way that she was warm, friendly, humble and filled with gratitude. I think the modeling world could stand to have a little more of that. She did a better job at the commercial shoot. They did half as many takes with Laura compared to Nicole.

When the judges went through the photos from the whole season, Laura clearly had more great shots, according to the judges’ comments. Perhaps I am getting swept up in the fairytale of the would-be small-town-Wal-Mart-worker-turned-Top-Model-winner. Maybe I just love her accent, but again: The walk. The personality. The legs. This brings me to …

The theory

My ANTM-watching buddy planted in my head the idea that Nicole was selected as the winner before the finale. This is the only way the Top Model winner selection makes any sense. If the commercial shoot and the runway show on the finale were a total sham,that explains how Nicole could have been named the Top Model winner.

Of course, I am aware that the show could have been edited in a way that purposely misled the audience. However, I’m also aware that the people who sit behind the judges table aren’t the only ones who have a say in who gets to be the Top Model winner. The people handing out the life-changing contract, Cover Girl, have a pretty heavy hand in deciding who wins, and they could have made their choice known before the finalists went through all the song and dance of the finale activities.

One of the challenges at the beginning of any economic recovery is reading mixed indicators. One sector of the economy will perk up while another sector takes a downturn. Moreover, most areas of the economy remain stagnant. The average consumer is confused, and investors are reluctant to part with their liquidity.

Last week the jobless rate was reported higher than expected. This week a stronger than expected forecast was given for Gross Domestic Product.  This is confusing for the average person. If we are laying off workers, who is making all the new products?

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

Another troublesome aspect to a recovering economy is false start indicators.  Sometimes the public, financial sectors and the government are so anxious for the recovery to start they report information too quickly and tout it as a sure sign of better days to come.

For example, indicators in the housing market are watched very closely.  A small rise in new home starts or existing home sales gets a lot of press and attention. However, the next month when the numbers come out these indicators might be lower than they were before. Not only did the growth stop, but the industry actually went backwards.  This oscillating effect makes consumers more likely to wait to make a big move and banks less likely to open up credit access.  Banks still look at the value of homes as a threat because we are not sure exactly where the bottom will be. Most economists and analysts agree that the fall is slowing.

Money In, Money Out

With the economy slow to recover, the federal government has seen fit to drop or at least hold interest rates low. This should be a good thing for borrowers and stimulate some spending and investing. So why hasn’t it worked yet?  There are several factors that diminish the effectiveness of this move, but there are two main factors: restricted credit and return on investment.

Under normal circumstances, lowering interest rates would spur economic activity; however, banks have already cut a good portion of the populous out of the picture with tighter lending criteria. You now have fewer people able to take advantage of the lower rates, thus reducing the effectiveness of the strategy.  Secondly, when interest rates drop on money loaned, the interest rates paid to investors drop, as well.  People with money to invest aren’t going to move ahead earning 1 percent or 2 percent if waiting awhile may double or triple that return.

When Will We Be All Better?

The key to economic recovery is people being convinced that things will get better sooner rather than later.  The individual consumer must see enough positive indicators to have faith in the future and start spending money.  This will drive interest rates up slightly and get investors into the picture. Once this happens, banks will feel secure enough to open up access to credit, and the whole system snowballs to recovery.