How To: Eliminate Your Student Debt

Via Chicago Tribune.

Via Chicago Tribune.

Student loan debt is no joke. Yet neither is education, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to graduate without a hefty load of debt on your mind. In fact, U.S. News & World Report noted 70 percent of students graduated with an average debt of almost $30,000 in 2013. The average for 2014 is expected to jump to $33,000. Overall, The Washington Post noted the total student debt amount is approaching $1.3 trillion. These are certainly scary numbers, but the answer is not to avoid getting an education, but rather to take control and pay it back, degree in hand.

There are many tips and tricks that people have for paying back student debt, and there are few listed here as well. Yet remember that every situation is unique, so what works for some might not work for you. Continue reading…

Trying New Things: How to Find a Hobby

DIY seed containers via Craftionary.

DIY seed containers via Craftionary.

Hobbies are good for you, and not just because they are something to do when bored. They are a great creative outlet, put your attention on something aside from work or daily pressures and can ultimately relive stress. According to Lifehack, hobbies are just a way to relax and have fun. It’s as simple as that. Hobbies also allow you to focus on you, which is a necessity. If you never step out from the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine, how can you continue to grow? Trying new hobbies will keep you young and inspired. Don’t be afraid to keep learning about yourself and trying new things. Continue reading…

Cars That Get Their Designs from Animals

Have you ever wondered where car engineers get their ideas? With such a high level of competition in the car industry, there’s no shortage of out-of-the box thinking needed.

The result of this creative thinking has produced some outlandish and unconventional sources, such as animals. Birds, fish and other types of animals have amazing agility, speed and motor skills, so researching how they operate can help designers create smarter vehicles. Consider the following animal-inspired cars:

Energo Racer

Image via Danny Spanner.

Image via Danny Spanner.

Created by designer Paul Hanna, who was inspired by marine life like the sting ray, the Energo Racer runs on multiple types of fuel alternatives. Continue reading…

And the Consumer Reports Most Reliable Cars of 2014 Awards Go To…

Via Wiki Auto Blog.

Via Wiki Auto Blog.

In a perfect world, every car would start right up with a touch of a button, work perfectly and efficiently at all times and even change its own oil. A girl can dream, right?

Unfortunately, we don’t live in that world and neither do the cars we rely on. The reality is, some cars are just lemons and some models are prone to serious breakdowns and glitches. And, as technology continues to complicate the way cars are made, this issue isn’t expected to go away any time soon.

Luckily, the Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability Survey aims to demystify the car world by uncovering the makes and models that stirred up the most commotion in the last 12 months. Continue reading…

Car Paint Problems: The Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Image via CarAdvice.

Image via CarAdvice.

Your car’s paint job will show signs of wear and tear over time. Even the most mindful driver will have to weather some bumps and bruises at some point. However, there are things you can do to extend the life of the finish and keep your car looking its best.

Here are some common problems as well as prevention and treatment techniques:

Chemical Damage
Chemical damage can be caused by acid rain, tar, sap from a tree and bird droppings. When these things interact with the paint, they cause discoloration and pitting. The longer the substance stays in contact with the paint, the more damage is done.

Treatment
It is important to remove the problem item as soon as possible. Start by seeing if soapy, hot water will work. If that does not help, mix a solution made of 1 tablespoon of baking soda for every 4 cups of water. For these treatments, remember to rinse the car well and dry it off before applying a protective wax coating. Continue reading…