So, we’re all due a stress-relieving vacation. And, it’s definitely possible, even with a tanking economy. Here’s a surefire way to get to your dream destination for a fraction of the price…Try shoulder season travel.

Photo By: The Wide Wide World

What is Shoulder Season?

It’s only one of the best kept travel secrets.

The time between high season and low season at a particular destination is its shoulder season. Airfare, lodging, and even attractions are cheaper because shoulder is a less popular time to travel.

Vacationing during high season costs travelers high prices for a reason. It’s often the time when the weather is the best for say, skiing at a resort in the Andes Mountains.

Low season is just the opposite. Traveling to the Caribbean at the peak of hurricane season could mean travelers experience a trip that’s far from the relaxing vacation they had in mind.

Top Reasons To Travel During Shoulder Season

1. Travel savings
2. Fewer tourist and crowds
3. Mild weather

Photo By: Gret@Lorenz

Where to travel and when to go?

Rio de Janeiro in March- Everything is less expensive after Carnival.
Japan in May - Humidity is at its lowest and April cherry blossom celebrations are over.
Florence in October - Avoid summers when its swamped with foreign tourists and January and February when its uncomfortably cold.
Aruba in November- The end to hurricane season is near and the heat is less brutal than it is during peak summer months.

Easy Ways to Save During Shoulder Season

Check rental home rates. Vacation homes often have different prices for different seasons. The highest rates obviously indicate peak seasons and during the off season, rates are at their lowest. Plan your travel for dates when the rental rates are somewhere in the middle.

Avoid school and holiday breaks. Many people travel when kids are off from school or during holidays. Strategically choose your dates to avoid the times when others travel. For instance, travel after Labor Day when many people are just getting back to school after summer vacations.

Use an agent. It’s their job to have inside info like the best times to travel. Sometimes travelers can get wholesale rates only available through travel agents.

Check travel guidebooks. It will be in plain English and in black and white… can’t get any easier than that.

Photo By: Markhillary

So, leave your Addison apartment behind and get traveling!

Photo by: Peter D

People have lit their Christmas trees since the 17th century. In the past, families attached candles to the ends of the branches. Given the fire risk involved with using lit candles, we now use beautiful strings of incandescent bulbs. With these come high electric bills and winter safety precautions. But, this Christmas why not light up your holidays safely and economically. Below are a few ideas to keep your holiday decorating cost efficient and safe.

Be Prepared

Turn off all light when you leave your home or when you go to bed. This will help you save on holiday spending and will also prevent a fire. Speaking of which, be fire safe. Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors in your home. Make sure your family has a plan in case there were a fire.

Photo by: Aaron Jacobs

Save Some Money

When finding other ways to save during the holidays consider LED lights. They use 33% less power, saving you up to $10 for every 300 hours lit, last significantly longer than incandescent bulbs and, while they don’t burn brighter, they burn cooler than incandescent bulbs which is a bonus to reduce the chance of Christmas tree fires.

Decorating Inside the House

Keep these simple holiday safety precautions in mind while decorating inside your Addison apartment.

• If you have to use an extension cord, be sure not to overload it or the electrical outlet. Do not use more than three sets of lights per cord.
• Do not to run the cords under rugs or near appliances where they can overheat and cause a fire.
• Keep extension cords away from where you water your tree.
• Also examine the extension cords and lights every year and discard any that have frayed cords. If you need to replace a bulb, be sure to unplug the string of lights. Replace the bulb with one of the same voltage and wattage as the original.
• Don’t place cords where they can be pulled down or tripped over. If you must temporarily run an electrical cord across a floor, make sure it is secured with tape to prevent tripping.
• If you use candles to add a holiday glow and a lovely scent, don’t leave them unattended. Be sure they are out before you go to bed or leave the house.

Photo by: Matt Pagel

Outdoor Decorating with Lights

Keep these Christmas decorating tips in mind when using lights outside of your home.

• Make sure power is off when stringing outdoor lights.
• All outdoor lights must be marked for outdoor use only. Be sure to keep the light plugs above ground and out of water.
• Examine trees you intend to string lights on. Make sure no limbs have grown into or near power lines. This can lead to electrical sock.
• When stringing lights, make sure ladders are safe and secure before climbing on them.
• And finally, use extension cords only when necessary.

Photo by: gothopotam

What is Digital TV?

DTV is an advanced broadcasting technology that will enhance your television viewing by offering better picture and sound quality. Digital TV conversion will free up parts of the broadcast spectrum for public and safety services and advanced wireless services. Many TV stations in the US are airing digital television programming today, but beginning February 17, 2009 all full-power TV stations will only broadcast in digital TV. Follow the easy steps below so that you are prepared and set up correctly for this digital TV conversion.

1. Determine Your Need

Do you have cable or satellite monthly TV service? Was your TV made after March 1, 2007?

If you answered “YES” to either of those questions, then you are not affected. If you are a cable or satellite subscriber, you should ask your provider if you will need anything and when. Also, to maximize this new technology, it may be time to retire that faithful 10-year-old TV and get one of the new high definition televisions!

If you answered “NO” to both questions and you have an outside antennae or rabbit ears on top of your TV, you will be affected. You will need a digital converter box for each TV in your house that is not hooked up to cable or satellite. Just follow the steps below.

Photo by: Gary Hunt

2. $40 Off Digital Converter Coupon

The GREAT NEWS is that the federal government is providing 2 -$40 off coupons per household. This is a great discount, and if you shop around you may be able to get 2 digital converter boxes FREE!

Here are the ways in which you may apply for up to 2 digital converter coupons:

• Online – at Digital Converter Box Coupon
• Over the phone – 24 hour hotline: 1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009)
• By mail – pick up an application at a store and mail to: PO Box 2000, Portland, OR 97208-2000
• By fax – fax the application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632)
• Deaf or hard of hearing call 1-877-530-2634 (English) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish)

IMPORTANT information about the digital converter coupons:

• The coupon will be a plastic gift card.
• Coupons expire within 90 days of issuance.
• There is a limited supply.
• The last date an application will be accepted is March 31, 2009.

Photo by: dfb

3. Buy a DTV Converter Box

Most digital converter boxes are priced between $50 and $70 and are available from Addison stores that sell electronics. You might want to check out Dish Network as they have announced that they would be selling DTV converter boxes for $40, that makes them FREE!

If you are currently using a TV antennae, here is a link that will tell you the right kind of antennae to purchase for maximizing the clarity you receive on your TV from your new digital converter box.

4. Install Your Digital Converter Box

This is easy! Just follow the following steps:

• Unplug your TV antennae from the back of your TV and plug it into the back of the DTV converter box where it says “IN”.
• Take the cable that comes with your converter box and plug one end into your TV and the other into the converter box where it says “OUT”.
• Plug the power cords on your converter box and TV into a power outlet, and turn on your TV and converter box.
• Using the instructions that come with your DTV converter box, tune your TV to channel 3 or 4 and using the remote that comes with your converter box, follow the on-screen set-up guide.
• Check the FCC for more detailed instructions in case you run into trouble.

Now as you relax in your Addison apartment, sit back, put your feet up, and enjoy the greatest advancement in television technology since color TV was introduced!

To go “all the way” you don’t have to buy the latest hybrid or replace all of your appliances with energy efficient models. But, you should try to follow through with your attempts to become greener. Before committing to the cost of going green, you have to take on some responsibility for yourself. Light bulbs, cars and appliances don’t change the world, people do.

CFL light Bulbs?

Everyone is promoting CFL light bulbs these days. They last longer, they save energy, and they’ll save you money on your electricity bill. But, what do you do with your CFL light bulb when it finally does blow out? Throw it away? The hidden danger in this is the fact that CFL light bulbs contain mercury. If you just throw them into the regular trash, they can break and release this harmful chemical in landfills contaminating ground water and soil. If you’re going to use these light bulbs, go all the way, and make sure you recycle them properly after they burn out.

Photo by: manohard

Energy Star Appliances

Just because an appliance has an energy star sticker on it doesn’t mean you can leave it on constantly. Leaving appliances like computers on or in standby mode can drain a lot of power. Turning your computer off and having it plugged into a power strip so you can cut off the flow of electricity is a good idea. And, if no one is in the room or you’re not paying attention to the television, just turn it off. The energy sticker is one step, but being responsible with your use of those energy-efficient electronics makes the real difference.

Cleaning Products For Your Home

Using green household cleaning products is a healthy way to go. It can reduce the risk of respiratory problems and allergies. However, when you clean or do laundry, you typically use water. Using an excess amount of water is when the benefits of using green cleaning products become less significant. Make sure you are conservative with your water use. Fill a bucket and use this water to clean your Addison apartment bathroom and kitchen instead of constantly running the faucet to rinse your sponge or cleaning surface. Also, when doing laundry, try to run full loads and start the machine on the proper settings according to the size of the load. This will help reduce water usage.

New innovations in the green market are appearing on the scene everyday, but, when it’s all said and done, what you do with these innovations is what will make the real difference. Be responsible and follow through with your going green plan.

Photo by: Parl

Shake Paw – This is probably the easiest to teach. When your dog is in a sitting position start by taking his paw in your hand and say “Shake paw.” After a few times of this exercise, he will put his paw in your hand when you lay your hand out in front of him and say “Shake paw.”

Speak – This may be one of the harder tricks to teach because you can’t physically make a dog bark. However, when a dog gets excited and happy it will bark. Start playing a game that gets your dog excited and when he starts barking say “Speak.” Play the game to reward him. Repeat this exercise over a period of time and eventually, the dog will relate your saying “speak” to barking. It may take a little longer than other tricks, but it can be done.

Sit – To start, you’re going to need your dog’s attention and some of his favorite treats. Hold one of the treats out so your dog can sniff it but not eat it. Say “Sit.” The first few times you will have to gently pat your dog’s back end to show him what it means to “sit.” Do not push or force your dog to sit. When he finally sits, give him the treat. This exercise will have to be repeated over a period of time as well.

Photo by: Grace

Things to Remember when Teaching a Dog Tricks:

• Be patient. Your dog may not catch on as quickly as you think.
• Don’t force it. If your dog doesn’t like doing a certain trick, don’t make him do it.
• Reward him. If he gets the trick right, give him a treat. He deserves it.
• Use a light, clear voice when teaching your dog a trick, not the voice you use for punishment.
• Don’t half-heartedly try to teach your dog a trick. Follow through with it for him to learn it properly.

Photo by: Joseph David

Other Puppy Training Tips and Tricks:

• Housetraining Puppies
• Basic Training Techniques
• How to Roll Over
• Lie Down Command
• Train Your Dog to Stay

Photo by: Derek Izumi

Where to Look

To begin your gym search, you might want to make a list of local gyms in your area. Gym.com offers a unique tool that allows you to search for gyms by state and then narrow it down by city and how far you’re willing to travel to workout. The site also includes reviews of gym listings.

Don’t forget to consult Yelp! to check out user reviews. A gym might look like a great place on the outside, but once you become a member, you’re stuck. You want to make sure you’ll be satisfied with your gym the entire time you’re there.

Look for free trials. If a gym you’re interested in is offering a free trial, this is a great time to test drive it. Take the time to explore all of the facilities, use a variety of the gym equipment and see if you can sit in on a few classes. Even if the gym doesn’t offer a free trial, ask for one… or at least get a detailed tour of the gym. And, don’t be afraid to ask the patrons what they think of the gym when you are trying it out.

What to Look For

While you’re searching for a gym, there are several questions you might want to ask yourself or the gym membership sales representative:

1. How far is the gym from my Addison apartment?
2. What kind of membership does the gym offer?
3. Is the membership in my price range and does it meet my needs?
4. Does the gym include equipment I use in my regular workout routine?
5. Does the gym offer classes I’m interested in taking?
6. Will I have access to a personal trainer?
7. How qualified are the instructors and trainers at the gym?
8. Is the gym well-kept and in an area I feel comfortable frequenting?
9. Are the staff members of the gym helpful and friendly
10. What are the gym’s operating hours?

There are several gyms within a 5 mile distance of Addison, but larger cities like Dallas are also nearby, so if you can’t find a gym that you absolutely love, you’re options grow if you’re willing to travel 10 or 15 miles from your Addison apartment.

Photo by: sgrace

Coupons.com

For free grocery store coupons, one of the best sites to check first is Coupons.com. You can enter your zip code to find coupons specifically in your area. Just browse through the coupons and select ones you’d like to print. You don’t have to register with the site, but you will have to download an application that allows your printer to print the coupons. From cereal to toilet paper to shampoo, this site has all the coupons you need when hitting the grocery store.

Smart Source Online Coupons

Smart Source has the right to claim the title – The #1 Online Grocery Store Coupon site! Free printable coupons are available on the site as well as local grocery store deals. The local store feature is helpful because it lists all specials and deals at local grocery stores near your house. This way you don’t have to spend all day shopping around local grocery stores for the best deal. They’re all laid out for you on one site.

Coupon Bar

This website simply lists coupons by categories such as beverages, foods, household and more. Some of the coupon links take you directly to company websites that are offering deals or coupons on their products. Most of the savings on Coupon Bar are at least $1.00 or more.

Tips for Finding Grocery Deals

• If you’re looking for a specific product, go to the actual grocery store website and see if they’re offering any coupons.
• Check for online discount coupons once a week for new deals and specials.
• Subscribe to a coupon website that works for you so that you can get updates through email.
• If you don’t have a lot of time check Wow Coupons for a comprehensive list of coupons, deals and free samples.

Photo by: Katie

How to Vote

Unfortunately October 6th is the last day to register to vote, so if you haven’t registered yet, it may be too late. However, if you are a registered voter and can’t leave your Addison home or won’t be in town to make it to your local polling place on the day of the general election, you have 2 options:

1. You can vote early in person at various locations between October 20th and the 31st from 7am to 7pm.

2. You can apply for a ballot by mail. Just fill out the application and wait for your ballot to come in the mail. When your ballot comes, fill it out and mail it back no later than 7 days before the general election.

All states and counties have their own process of voting early and requesting absentee ballots. If you aren’t from Dallas County or Addison, TX, check your county’s website for local voter information.

Choosing a Party and Candidate

Keeping up with the 2008 election news can be difficult. And, choosing a candidate to vote for is proving to be even harder. If you’re a first time voter or you are having a difficult time siding with one party, you might want to take a look at the issues that each of the major political parties support.

One way to align yourself with a political party is to take the Political Compass test. This will place you on a political chart. You can see where the 2008 Presidential candidates fall on the chart to see how closely they match up with you.

You can also take a look at each of the candidates’ websites to see where they stand on certain issues. Below are the two major political party Presidential candidate websites:

• Barack Obama Democratic Presidential Nominee
• John McCain Republican Presidential Nominee
• All 2008 Presidential Candidates

No matter for whom you choose to vote, be sure you get out to a polling place or mail in an absentee election ballot to make your voice heard.

Photo by: greenbird_ontree

Addison Circle Park – This 10-acre park is where you can find some of the more popular local events including Octoberfest and Taste Addison. You can also find benches, interactive fountains, walking trails, open fields for recreation and a pavilion that’s available for rent.

Esplanade Park – If you’re looking for a great place to unwind during your lunch break, head over to this park located near the high rises in the Addison Circle District. The park also offers pet waste dispensers, so it’s a great place to take your pet for a walk if you live in a nearby apartment.

Photo by: simplycute becka

Bosque Park – This park is located between 2 apartment buildings on Quorum Drive, one being the brand new 15777 Quorum apartment complex. You’ll also find benches, lighted walkways, patio tables and pet waste dispensers to accommodate park guests.

Celestial Park – The scenic beauty of this park creates a great environment for a quiet afternoon picnic. The park also features a jogging trail and a unique human sundial with quotations of inspiration. You can find this park on the southeastern side of town.

Les Lacs Linear Park – This park can be found winding through a subdivision, but it is open to the public. Les Lacs Linear Park features playgrounds, sand volleyball courts, a basketball court, tennis courts and a 2.5 mile lighted jogging trail. Bikes are also allowed on the jogging trail and a pavilion in the park is available for rent.

Winnwood Park – This park is considered the most scenic of all Addison parks and receives the most requests for wedding photo shoots. A jogging trail is also available for those who would like to get some exercise in while enjoying the scenic views. You can find this park on the west side of town near Prestonwood Country Club.

Photo by: Andrea Micheloni

Things to Know About Addison Parks

• You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash and you must clean up its waste.
• No motorized vehicles are allowed on park trails.
• Alcohol is not allowed in the parks.
• Park hours are 5am-11pm.
• You cannot swim or boat in Addison park ponds.
• To answer more of your questions, visit the Addison Parks and Recreation website.

Photo by: Jill Shih

1. Greenz

If you’re looking for a great place to grab a healthy lunch, Greenz is the place to go in Addison. Don’t worry if you’re a meat eater, they have hearty salad entrees with Hawaiian tuna, chipotle chicken or barbecued pork. You can also try a variety of soups including Jack Cheese and Chicken, Turkey Chili, Pesto Soup and more. A cup is only $2.50. Don’t have enough time to sit in for lunch? You can get your salad wrapped in a tortilla for quick and easy eating!

2. Firefly

Firefly offers a unique blend of cultures in its Asian fusion cuisine. You’ll find flavors of the Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, French and Italian. If you’re headed there for lunch, check out their “Power Lunch Specials” including dishes like Wok Tossed Beef, Lemongrass Chicken, Korean BBQ Beef and more all under $10. Also, try their spring rolls in a variety of flavor combinations.

3. La Madeleine

For delicious French cuisine in a cozy bistro setting, try La Madeleine. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, but their lunch menu is quite extensive and delicious looking. Enjoy hot and cold sandwiches served on fresh baguettes and croissants. They also have a wide selection of salads and soups to select from. And,don’t overlook the French specialties and pasta like Quiche Lorraine, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Rosemary Rotisserie Chicken and more. You’ll want to try them all.

4. Pastazio’s New York Pizza

For a quick slice or a sub, Pastazio’s New York Pizza is the place to go. Other than your traditional pie, they’re serving up pizza rolls, hot and cold subs, salads, pasta and desserts. A slice is only $2.29 with all the toppings you can think of to choose from. If you find you can’t get out of the office for lunch, don’t worry, they’ll deliver it to you.

5. Jaxx Cafe

If you’re lunching with coworkers or looking for a place to take a client, Jaxx Cafe offers a more luxurious setting than your average fast food lunch joint. The menu includes all of the surf and turf favorites like Chilean Sea bass and Pepper Steak. Jaxx is open between 11am and 10pm, and most entrees run between $10 and $25

If you’re lucky enough to work near your Addison apartment and are looking for great lunch spots in the area, these Addison restaurants are a good starting point. Check out the Addison Texas website for more restaurant ideas.