Being so far out

This guest post from Doris Dillon
Living out here in the country has always been a dream of mine and now it’s finally realized. I bought some land out here in Texas and I’ve built my dreamhouse – I guess I just never thought it could be that easy! I’m living out here now all by myself with the exception of Ranger, my goldendoodle, and we’re really, really happy. We have a small veggie garden out back where we grow a lot of what we eat and I’ve been able to start painting again since it’s so quiet out here. I love being able to get creative! I went to http://www.allhomesecurity.com/adt-security/Arizona/P/Phoenix/ when we first moved in since it was a little creepy, if we’re being honest, since I could hear every rustle and noise going through the desert. I also had to install a water well since water is a precious commodity out here and those vegetables wouldn’t water themselves! I think we’re pretty well set up now, though, and we’re probably going to be here for a long time to come.

Peace of Mind

As a mother, I always find myself trying to shield my children from the world. Unfortunately, no matter what I do, my children will grow and explore and experience life. With that being said, It's always great to have a little help in protecting them. I found  ADT Security online at http://www.allhomesecurity.com/. The one place that I know my children feel safe is at home so I decided to make home as safe as possible.
   I accessed the website and was happy to find it easy to view and navigate. On the website, http://www.allhomesecurity.com/, you can elect to call the customer service number or simply have them call you. ADT Security has improved over the years but has always had the customer in mind. I remember being in elementary having to walk to my aunt's house after school. I was always told to go in the house, lock the door, and disarm the alarm. One day, for some reason I forgot the code. Within a matter of seconds,  ADT Security was on the phone and within minutes they had two police officers at the door. They didn't leave until they knew I was okay. I felt really secure that day because it wasn't the best of neighborhoods and I always wondered how fast help would come if ever needed.
  I count on ADT Security to help protect my family. With 24/7 monitoring, I know that my family is protected even in my sleep. The day I decided  to go to http://www.allhomesecurity.com/ was the day I joined a team of protection for my family. I love my family, so I made the best choice I could have made. I chose ADT Security.

To Be An Auction Hunter

Going Going Gone!
Storage facilities generally hold auctions once a month to the general public at each location. Customers whom either could not or chose not to pay their rent lose they're belongings in these auctions. Customers are given a chance to pay and are legally notified prior to the auction that their possessions are up for sale.
If you plan on becoming an auction hunter/buyer, it's best to call around to the storage facilities and find out the date, time, and number of space to be sold at the auction. I recommend keeping a planner or calender of all the auctions that you plan to follow each month. Get to know the auctioneers and the facility managers. This may help you out in the long run. Always bring cash and never bid more than you have to give on any particular space. You should always have a plan for your purchases. For example, how you will you relocate, sell, and/or discard these items. It's also a great idea to bring a few locks to re-secure any spaces that you buy. When starting out, I think it is best to stop in and observe a few auctions before jumping right in.
On the day of auction, the lock is cut and the doors are raised for all to see. Prospective buyers are given a brief chance to view what's in the space from the outside of the door. Each unit is sold by the piece or as a whole. The items or space is sold to the highest bidder and they then own it and are free to do as they please.
Many people are being led to believe that they WILL STRIKE IT RICH being an auction buyer. The truth is that this is a skill and it's a lot harder than people think. It's kind of like gambling but there is a lot of leg work put into this job. You have to have a solid marketing plan for everything that you could possibly find in these spaces. The reason is because you CAN actually find ANY and EVERYTHING! If you plan on competing with the big guys, you have to know when to HOLD THEM and when to FOLD THEM. It may also take muscle and man power. If you buy a space you have a limited amount of time, designated by the facility, to remove every item from the property. You can't take the treasures and leave the trash.
Now don't get me wrong, you can definitely find some valuable items at these auctions. You have to be consistent and be willing to give it the time that it requires. The more auctions you attend, the more spaces you can buy. The more spaces you buy, the better odds you have of finding valuable treasures. These auctions can lead an ambitious entrepreneur to wealth and profit.
The contents sold at these auctions generally wind up being resold at online auctions, flea markets, and consignment shops. There is a range of items to be found in these spaces like electronics, tools, antiques,furniture,family heirlooms, collectibles,and sometimes motor vehicles. Most people store their entire household in these spaces. You can find appliances, toys, and clothes. Selling clothes as scrap fabric or online is a profitable solution.
Auctions are a great way to grow a business, start a business, or cut costs on things that you may be in search of. Whether you are a restaurant owner,carpenter, or just want to start a business from home, auctions can be a great opportunity or investment. Be an observer first and learn the business. Get as much information and product knowledge as you can so you don't overlook value. Grow your connections and resources. When you're ready or just so happen to find that thing that you just can't resist, GO FOR IT before it's GOING GOING GONE!

Smart Storage

Moving can be a stressful time for anyone. When you have to move but do not have space for your possessions, the stress can increase immensely. That's when people look for self storage. Choosing self storage should not be taken lightly. After all, these are items that most people have collected over years and protected in their own homes, and under their own watch.

When choosing a self storage facility, there are a few important things that one should consider.

1. Price: In this economy we all want to save a dollar but, the cheaper rate is not always the best way to go. Shop around and look for coupons or discounts that the different companies offer if you are price conscientious. If you can reserve in advance on-line or with customer service you will more than likely get a better rate.

2. Location: The best location should be a place close to where you will be moving or staying for the time being. This way, if you need anything that you are storing, you don't have to drive across town to get to your belongings. Before deciding to store with any self storage company, VISIT the prospective property. You should view the selection of sizes for accuracy and the entire property as well. Ask questions! This will give you a better sense of the property management and how they handle business.

3. Packing: It's not a bad idea to call around to your local grocery stores for free boxes. They will tell you the best day and time to come in and pick up the boxes before they send them out. If you need to purchase boxes from the storage facility, ask if they have coupons or check their website for coupons. If you are buying in bulk ask for a discount.

4. Truck: Find out the rates of the truck at the storage facility. This may be better for you if they offer discounts for storing with them. If you choose a moving company, try to use a company that a friend or family member can refer to you. Sometimes this can be pricey. Try to pack as much as you can. When the moving company comes in you only want them to have to load the truck. Some moving companies will charge you $30.00 a box to pack it.

Although moving can have many ups and downs, it feels good to unload and leave knowing that you made a conscientious decision. You shopped around, got good deals, and made a GREAT choice!

OH DEAR! Which Lock Should I Choose?

But Which Lock Do I Choose?

Combination lock, padlock, small lock,big lock, Which lock should I choose? This is a valid question when needing to secure a storage space that should not be answered by price. Although there is a range of different locks to choose from, they of course all serve the same purpose and most have the same Makeup.

Padlocks consist of these components: The BODY is the main part of the lock. The SHACKLE is the U-shaped piece that locks down into the body. Hardened refers to the tempering of the shackle. This makes it more resistant to bolt cutters. The key goes into the PLUG. The KEYWAY is the milled out portion of the plug. TUMBLERS works inside of the key-way to read the key.

A Little History

The first Master laminated padlock was made in the early 1920's by Harry Soref. This lock was very popular because it had an efficient impact resistant design and was low in cost. You will see this design even today because it was and still is a successful design.

The difference in the many locks to choose from lies in the degree of security.

The U- shaped shackle is the typical padlock design. However, you may see a lock with a circular shackle called a Disc lock. These lock are most recommended because of the high resistance to bolt cutters.

Lock Tip: With these locks some insurance companies will waive the deductible if a claim ever has to be filed.

I Recommend To Always Go With A Disc Lock. Thieves look for quick and easy access and a quick escape. Fortunately, a Disc lock generally means much effort is required.