Free envelopes for life
In the last year I have noticed a change in the envelopes that I get from my banks, credit cards, etc. The envelopes used to be highly customized with designs, ads and special offers.
Recently, the envelopes have been getting more and more simple. In fact most envelopes I receive now are only customized with the mailing address. But I've also started getting plain blank envelopes. I attribute this to cost-cutting measures.
So I essentially get free envelopes every week. If an address is there, I can always put a blank label over it. I also get free return address labels from various promotions so the only thing I ever need is stamps. Of course, most things I pay on-line so I tend to build up very large piles of envelopes...
Posted 07/03/2008 04:10 PM
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My counter is officially done.
The last picture I posted was attaching the counter top. After semi-diligently working evenings and weekends for the last couple weeks, I've finally finished everything (except cleaning). Here are some key progress pictures. As usual, I've documented way too much if you're interested in the details.
Drywall Mud, Primer, Paint & Tracks
Baseboards, Trim & Drawers, Organized Drawers
I'm quite happy with the counter, especially the extra storage space which will clear up a few spots on my old counter. Next I just need to get some wine racks and other accessories to spruce it up.
Posted 06/30/2008 08:29 PM
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L2O, here I come!
My parents are planning to visit Chicago over Independence Day Weekend so I'm going to treat them to L2O, which has been getting some good reviews including this review from Hungry Magazine that thinks L2O deserves three Michelin stars.
If you don't know, the Michelin Guide is a French fine dining guide that is renowned world wide for it's high caliber restaurants and scrutinizing reviewers. In 2005, only 54 restaurants achieved the maximum 3 stars in the entire world. In case you're wondering if there's any relation to Michelin tires, they are owned by the same company, officially named Compagnie Générale des Établissements Michelin
The question for me right now is whether to request a tatami room. Tatami rooms are private rooms where patrons receive a dedicated staff and special 14-20 course meal for $225 per person (standard meals are a la carte, 4 course for $110 and 12 course for $165). After tax and gratuity, the tatami rooms come to about $300 per person. Pretty steep. Maybe I should stick with 12 course meals that will come to about $215 per person.
The main reason I can afford this is because of my AmEx points and a gift I got from work which I again redeemed for Lettuce Entertain You gift certificates.
Posted 06/29/2008 08:31 PM
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CLEARing Airport Security
Since I've been talking about airport security, I suppose it's about time to talk about the CLEAR Card. It's a TSA approved traveler registration program that requires personal information, biometric information (fingerprint and retina scan) and a $128 annual fee. Currently it allows customers to speed through security primarily by skipping the security line, which isn't that different from elite airline membership levels. However, they are working to introduce lanes with special equipment to expedite the scanning process as well. There are also promotions such as a free introductory membership for Hyatt Gold Passport members at the Platinum or Diamond level or 1,000 bonus miles for Delta SkyMiles members.
The CLEAR program was been piloted and rolled out primarily on the east coast but they have been expanding ever since. There are currently 20 participating airports across the US, though some will not be active until later this year. Some airports only support itin specific terminals or at specific times but from those willing to give up personal information, CLEAR has received good reviews.
The one bummer is that no Chicago airport has decided to implement the program yet otherwise I would consider signing up. Here are a couple articles about it: OhMyGov.com | Road & Travel
Posted 06/28/2008 10:36 PM
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Drive a BMW Alpina B7 to support breast cancer research
BMW's 12th annual Ultimate Drive to support the Susan G. Komen foundation is coming soon. For every mile you drive in one of their cars, they will donate $1. Much like past years, their goal is to have people drive a total of 1 million miles to bring their 12 year total donation to $12 million.
Last time I went you could pick any two BMWs to drive so I drove the Z4 and 325i w/ Sport Package for two 6 mile drives. This year they will also have the new X3 and X6 available to drive. If you're interest in trying out a BMW while supporting a good cause, check out the BMW Ultimate Drive site.
There are events throughout the week and weekend, depending on which BMW dealer you go to. It looks like the weekend slots are filling up quickly with only X3 and X5 slots still available so I opted for the Friday event at Patrick BMW in Schaumburg and signed up to drive a 650Cic and an Alpina B7. Sweet.
One note, they've put in new age requirements. You must be 21 to drive any regular car, 25 to drive nicer cars (e.g. 5, 6 and 7 series) and 30 to drive the Alpina. I guess age has SOME benefits.
Posted 06/28/2008 02:29 AM
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