Investment Banking Meltdown and Staying Focus

Last night I learned about the Investment Banking Meltdown that was occurring. I did feel sorry for what was going on. I onced worked for Merrill.

Then, I remembered the work that I am doing with a program called Simpleology. It helps me to stay more focused on what is important to me. I learned about the IB Meltdown in 15 minutes turning the television off and spending my last hour awake preparing for my good night's sleep.

I am practicing staying focus on what will bring me success today. I have made incredible progress in short order with Simpleology. More on that in a future blog.

PS:

I'm evaluating a multi-media course on blogging from the folks at Simpleology. For a while, they're letting you snag it for free if you post about it on your blog.

It covers:

• The best blogging techniques.
• How to get traffic to your blog.
• How to turn your blog into money.

I'll let you know what I think once I've had a chance to check it out. Meanwhile, go grab yours while it's still free.

Harbor Fish & Chips - Oceanside California

Yesterday I drove to Oceanside to one of my favorite places - Harbor Fish & Chips. I drove a 100 miles just to have lunch there. It is on the southside of the Oceanside Harbor. Belly up to the counter and order any of their fresh seafood baskets. They call your number and then sit outside looking at the boats and the people. It is just fabulous.

Harbor Fish & Chips, 276 South Harbor Drive, Oceanside, CA, 760-722-4977.

If you know of any more of these types of places on the California coast, respond to the blog. I love those order up places. I have also been to one in Dana Point and Ventura.

Real Estate

I read a blog this morning where the author wrote about the trials of the housing "slowdown" and if it would hit bottom in the next six months. She had clearly been spending way too much too much time focused on this. I know because I did for quite some time until just recently. This is what I said:

"We are only about a third of the way through this challenge. This started in August of 2005 even though nobody knew it or would admit it. Due to all the factors mentioned by you and Justin, as well as some very knowledgeable people I study, I predict that the recovery will begin in 2013.

"The factors that caused this are bigger than the S&L challenge of the early 80’s.

"Regardless, there is always money to be made in up and down markets so my focus is on that because the real estate economy as a whole has a long way to go."

Airstream Safari 25 SS

I happen to be a big fan of Airstreams. Yes, they still make Airstreams. I know because I own a 2004.

I was on the Airstream web site the other day looking at the new 2009 lineup. I was disappointed to find that my model, the Safari 25 SS (the SS stands for 6-sleeper), is no longer in production. In 2004, the 25 SS was the best selling model. Now it has been taken over by this new design with the front double bed and the dinette in the back.

I have to say that the new design is a great sales tool. It makes the 25 feel roomy and being able to look out the back with the panoramic windows is wonderment making.

You know there is a "but" coming. I spend a lot of time in my 25 SS. I have studied all the models of Airstream and no other model is as efficient in storage capacity than my 25 SS for its size. With the 25 Front Bed, as it is called, one loses a whole double upper cabinet area in comparison with mine, let alone the lesser closet space.

Everyone once in awhile I get the urge for a new Airstream. With the advent of my 25 SS no longer being made, I'll be keeping mine.

The Referral Guy

Audi A4 - 2008 vs 2009

A friend's Audi A4 lease is up in November. He asked me if he should get the '08 or the all-new '09 when he shows up at the dealer to turn in his lease and get a new one. I told him I would get back to him. Here is my response:

There are those out there that describe leasing as 'one of the sins of the 20th and 21st centuries.' I try to be not so dramatic. I have leased and I have bought. Each is an expense, period.

Studying the all-new 2009 Audi A4, I have to say that I am impressed. It is decidedly more beautiful than the previous version and I thought the previous version was lovely. I am particularly fond of the new front and rear treatments. The new engine plants sound much better and more efficient than the outgoing model. The interior is up to the Audi standard of excellence. It is larger on all sides except height with a wider stance, which always helps with handling.

Since I am more into downsizing these days, it bothers me a little that the new A4 will be bigger than any of its competitors the 3-series or the C-class. I love to be able to get into tight places, even though I always park far away from everyone else. This size class car is just right for most people. The rear seat room is better than the '08 and that will make it a great car for everyone.

Should my friend get the '09 or lease one of the remaining '08's on the lot that the dealer will be desperate to get rid of by the time November rolls around?

It comes down to finances and emotion. The dealer will probably give him a better deal on a new '08, yet there is also the issue that the depreciation will be greater over the lease, and don't let anyone fool you into believing that depreciatioin is not figured in the deal.

Ultimately, all cars are sold via emotion. If the new one is just too fab to resist, no matter what I say, my friend will probably get an '09. I would probably be right there with him if I was shopping for one. Will he be happy if he gets the '08? Probably. Audi is a fine motorcar and most every review I have read of the outgoing incarnation owners are pleased to downright love the A4.

My best of luck to you my friend. Either way, I don't think you can lose.

The Referral Guy