Maria's Space: August 2023

Monday, August 28, 2023

Selling Your Car Online? Consider These Pricing Strategies

 In today's digital age, selling your car online has become a convenient and efficient way to connect with potential buyers. Online platforms offer a vast reach and accessibility that traditional methods can't match. However, setting the right price for your vehicle can be a challenging task. To maximize your chances of a successful sale and avoid leaving money on the table, consider these pricing strategies when using online car dealerships.

1. Research Comparable Listings

Before you dive into pricing your car, take some time to research similar listings. Look for vehicles with similar make, model, year, mileage, and condition. Online car dealerships provide a plethora of listings that you can use as a reference. By comparing your car to others on the market, you'll gain a better understanding of the price range that aligns with the current market trends.

2. Set a Competitive Initial Price

When you're ready to list your car on an online platform, start with a competitive initial price. Avoid the temptation to overprice your vehicle, as this can deter potential buyers. Online shoppers are savvy and often have access to ample information to compare prices. An inflated price could lead to your listing being overlooked in favor of more reasonably priced options.

3. Factor in Online Dealer Fees

Many online car dealerships charge a fee to list your vehicle on their platform. Make sure to factor in these fees when determining your asking price. While it's essential to cover your costs, remember that potential buyers will be comparing the total cost, including fees, with similar listings. Aim for a balance that offers value while also accounting for the platform fees.

4. Highlight Unique Selling Points

Online buyers are not just looking for a car; they're seeking a solution to their transportation needs. If your vehicle has unique features or has been well-maintained, highlight these points in your listing. Whether it's low mileage, recent maintenance, or added accessories, showcasing these aspects can justify a slightly higher price.

5. Be Open to Negotiation

Flexibility is key when it comes to online car sales. Most buyers will expect some room for negotiation, so be prepared for offers below your initial asking price. While it's essential to be realistic, don't undervalue your car just to make a quick sale. 

6. Monitor Market Trends

Online car markets are dynamic, with prices fluctuating based on demand and supply. If you notice a surge in demand for a specific make or model, you might be able to increase your asking price slightly. Conversely, during slower periods, you may need to adjust your price to attract potential buyers.

7. Leverage Local Market Insights

For those looking to "sell my car online Huntsville AL," it's crucial to consider local market insights. Factors such as geographical location, weather conditions, and regional preferences can impact the value of your vehicle. Research the Huntsville, AL market to ensure your pricing aligns with local expectations.

In conclusion, selling your car online through reputable dealerships offers an incredible opportunity to connect with a wide range of potential buyers. To make the most of this opportunity, employ pricing strategies.



Feeling Overwhelmed



I have felt like there is too much on my plate lately.

Just two months ago I made a list of places I wanted to go this summer since I had put in to reduce my work hours to just Tuesday through Thursday like I have done for the past three Summers. When the kids were small I took the summer off but COVID happened and I needed to get back to work because of the limited staff. The days off would be hard on my paycheck but they only equated to 17 total days and I was going to be pet sitting so figured the kids and I could do things on one of those days and the other day my daughter and I (son if he wanted to) could visit some of the Google map list of places to go. Yeah...none of that happened.  Pet sitting, meetings, doctor appointments, kid's work schedule, ideas for the class on the days I was working, etc., changed all that.

We did hit the mall three times as my son reminded me today. We did go out to lunch a few times with friends and I think one of those days I was lazy and hung around the house but mostly we were on the go!

I have two weddings, a new class to acclimate to, Halloween, pet sitting, a meeting for my son,  Thanksgiving, a trip to Disney and Christmas to think about and that all starts happening in the next few days. 

Somehow I was under the impression that I would be doing way less at this point in my life. 57 and in 10 years God willing 67. SO what do I have maybe 10 more decent years?!  Wow! That seems so horrifying. 

My husband feels none of this stress. He works then does yard work. The vacation was also booked by him leaving just paying for it as the only stress. I cannot imagine feeling zero stress on a day to day. 

Thankfully I know how to calm my own concerns. I keep everything on a calendar so I can remind myself of anything coming up. I journal so this relaxes my brain and my heart rate is on the low end. Is that good?! I don't even know. 

Do I really feel like I need to ask for permission to relax as a friend mentioned this morning? I don't know if that is me. It's my own fault that I feel stress over the above. Weddings sound fun for some. Dressing up and spending money is a stress for me. Sitting and trying to chat with my husband for a few hours should be good right!? I hope it is. I want it to be but we don't talk much. He likes things quiet so I tend to be quiet. Last night I allowed myself to be a little of my old self. I was chatting with my daughter in the car while we passed a very dark park. Teenagers in the park were laughing and one of them screamed a blood curdling scream. I was talking and without missing a beat, screamed right back. It was a long, loud, blood curdling scream then went back to talking. My daughter started laughing, touched my arm and said "I love you Mom!" she thought it was hysterical. I love that she found joy in it and I found myself loving that I had felt free enough to just scream with the kids. It is okay to be just me but I wish that I felt more "me" with others beside my daughter. Why do I hold back? I use to shine. I use to be okay and capable of handling a few stressers without feeling overwhelmed. 

Maybe one day...well one day has to be right now. I deserve to be around others and situations that bring out the softness, fun, shiny side, not the survival side. It is okay for others to not be okay with what I do or say. It is not okay for me to squash my feelings down because someone may be uncomfortable with what I do or say. 

Time for change has to start now. 




Friday, August 25, 2023

Expend4ables Has An R Rating?

 



SYNOPSIS:

A new generation of stars join the world’s top action stars for an adrenaline-fueled adventure in Expend4bles. Reuniting as the team of elite mercenaries, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, and Sylvester Stallone are joined for the first time by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, and Andy Garcia. Armed with every weapon they can get their hands on and the skills to use them, The Expendables are the world’s last line of defense and the team that gets called when all other options are off the table. But new team members with new styles and tactics are going to give “new blood” a whole new meaning.  


Lionsgate and Millennium Media present A Nu Boyana Studios and Templeton Media Production in Association With Grobman Films in Association with Media Capital Technologies. 


Genre: 

Rating: 

Directed by: 

Screenplay by: 

Screen Story by: 

Based On: 

Cast: 

Action

R

Scott Waugh

Kurt Wimmer & Tad Daggerhart and Max Adams

Spenser Cohen and Kurt Wimmer & Tad Daggerhart

Characters Created by David Callaham    

Jason Statham, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Megan Fox, Dolph Lundgren, Tony Jaa, 

Iko Uwais, Randy Couture, Jacob Scipio, Levy Tran, with Andy Garcia, and Sylvester Stallone

Official Site

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

#Expend4bles

Thursday, August 24, 2023

MEGALOMANIAC In Theaters September 8th

 

MEGALOMANIAC

 


STARRING 

Eline Schumacher, Wim Willaert, Benjamin Ramon, Pierre Nisse, Raphaëlle Lubansu

 

DIRECTED BY 

Karim Ouelhaj


 

IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 8



Martha and Félix are the children of the Butcher of Mons, a notorious Belgian serial killer from the 1990s. Unstable and riddled with insecurities, Martha lives vicariously through social media. Her brother, crushed by the family legacy, takes over their father's killings. Harassed and violently assaulted at work, the docile Martha falls into madness and goes through the looking glass into the strange and terrifying world inhabited by her brother.


Play Together As A Family For Memories and To Boost Creativity and Mindfulness



Back-to-School Family Mindfulness Tools


Starting a new school year and routine can be exciting, but it can also stir up a lot of emotions–for kids and parents alike! Here are two of my favorite mindfulness tools which you and your kids can use anytime to make a smoother transition and feel calmer.

#1: Five Senses

I absolutely love this technique as it is super simple and quickly shifts your focus from your thoughts to your body. Rather than getting caught up in whatever story is on replay in your head, this technique draws you back to the present moment and engages all of your senses.

To play, simply stop and notice one thing around you with each of your five senses: sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. For example, if your child is nervously waiting at the bus stop, she might notice...

  • Sight – clouds floating in the sky
  • Smell – the fresh cut grass
  • Hearing – children talking
  • Taste – minty toothpaste
  • Touch – their backpack in their fingertips

As you notice each item, see if you can also slow your breath. You can place your hand on your heart and even say a short mantra like, I breathe in peace, or your kids might say something like, all is good. See if you can bring a smile to your face. And above all, be ok with however you are feeling, knowing that it too will pass.

#2: Five Finger Breathing

Another easy yet powerful tool to ease the back-to-school transition is five finger breathing. To play, hold up one of your hands with your palm facing you. Using your index finger from your other hand, trace up your pinky finger as you slowly inhale. Then trace down your pinky as you slowly exhale. Repeat for each of your fingers for a total of five breaths.

You can always continue if you’d like, but just by stopping to trace these five breaths you will have slowed your nervous system to help re-engage your parasympathetic nervous system. Whenever you or your child notice that you are getting a bit geared up, I always recommend pausing and taking a breath with a long exhale! This helps your body feel more relaxed.

Another thing I love about this game is that even if you can’t trace your fingers- for example your kids are in the middle of class or you are in the middle of a meeting, you can visualize it, or at the very least take five slow deep breaths in and out.

Interested in more fun tools and games that help teach emotional regulation and other important life skills? Check out my new book, Play Together: Games & Activities for the Whole Family to Boost Creativity, Connection & Mindfulness,for over 60 screen-free, entertaining and educational games. Visit laurahaver.com to learn more. Play on!

About the Author

Laura Haver 
is a play, happiness and communication expert, author, speaker and life design coach. She has helped hundreds of individuals and families to experience more play, growth and inspiration in their lives. Laura is the founder of Author Moms (a community that connects, supports and inspires fellow writing moms) and Alchemy of Fun (a community for busy women who want to bring more fun, fulfillment and magic into their lives). She has been featured on the Today Show, CBS, Fox and more. She has over 25 years coaching experience in leadership, life design and tennis (for both children and adults). Laura lives in San Diego with her husband and two sons. Visit laurahaver.com for more information.

Praise for Play Together

“...an inspired collection of games, harnessing the power of play to help families have more fun while also building important life skills.” —Matt Weinstein, founder of Playfair, Inc., bestselling author and dubbed “The Master of Playfulness” by PEOPLE Magazine

“...a must for any parent looking for more meaningful and joyful connections with the children in their lives.” —Kasey Mathews, transformational life coach and author ofPreemie: Lessons in Love, Life and Motherhood
 
“...a must-have book for any adult wanting to nourish one of the greatest gifts of childhood—play.” —Cheryl Peterson, Ph.D., instructor and author of IDEAS andBecause of 4
 
“...an exciting and inspiring book that is a fantastic tool, guiding adults to think outside the box about how we engage in quality fun with our kids.” —Erica Spiegelman, counselor and author of Rewired and The Rewired Life
 
“I love that Play Together focuses on simple activities with materials you likely already have at home, and that the activities don't require a ton of adult preparation.” —Alanna Gallo, founder of Play. Learn. Thrive.

# # #

Play Together
Written by Laura Haver
978-1-57826-974-7, $18.00 paperback
978-1-57826-975-4, $9.99 ebook

Published by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com


Sunday, August 20, 2023

Cutting the Cord - Why Landline Alternatives Are the Way to Go

"Cutting the cord" refers to quitting your cable or satellite TV provider. If you can locate what you want to watch on streaming services like Netflix, YouTube TV, and Philo, doing this could save you money.

Cable providers are beginning to take cord-cutting seriously and are providing more affordable smaller bundles. But is the change worthwhile?

Cost

A landline may make little sense if you rely on your cell phone for most calls. Many households are ditching landlines altogether to cut their bills.

Traditional landline home phones use a complex spiderweb of copper wires owned by telecom companies to connect buildings. They're expensive to maintain and can be subject to outages, price hikes, and significant taxes.

Landline alternatives such as Ooma Telo are available. These VoIP landline providers offer one-time hardware costs and a low monthly fee for local, national, and sometimes international calling. They also have features like caller ID, voicemail, and faxing capability. In addition, these devices are portable and can be taken with you when traveling. They can even work during power outages (though a cellular provider would be preferable in this scenario). You could even port your old landline number to these alternatives.

Convenience

With a suitable home phone alternative, ditching your landline can be easy. For example, many VoIP services use your broadband connection and provide a complete set of standard phone line features at a fraction of the cost. Some even include a fundamental home phone base with solid coverage that eliminates the need for expensive copper wire connections.

Other options let you park your landline number and play a message to callers that say to dial your new mobile number instead. Some can also connect you to a service that routes 911 calls to your emergency service provider using a digital signaling system so that first responders know exactly where the call is coming from.

Another way to cut the cord is to ditch your cable bundle and replace it with live-streaming options. If you can't live without the newest episodes of your favorite show or want access to more than just primary channels, you can always supplement this with an antenna.

Flexibility

Whether you want to cut your cable TV subscription or seek cheaper landline phone services, plenty of options are available. Many of these alternatives use VoIP to connect your business so that you can avoid expensive ATAs and other hardware. Depending on the size of your business, you can choose from open-source solutions or paid providers.

Residential VoIP uses your home Wi-Fi connection to make and receive calls, the same connections that power everything from computers and televisions to connected doorbells and virtual assistants. It means you can get rid of your traditional landline and its monthly bill without missing out on the reliable service that it provides.

In addition, your landline can provide a crucial line of communication in the event of an emergency. While 911 support for cell phones and online calls has improved, emergency personnel still need to know your exact location to respond quickly.

Security

Some people who cut their home phone cords do so to streamline paperwork and bill-paying. Others may use a landline alternative to take advantage of features not available on cell phones, including caller ID, call forwarding, and three-way calling. And for some, a reliable landline can provide a sense of security. Unlike cellphones, which can be hampered by spotty cellular reception, harsh weather, or even chewed-through charging cords, landlines are always on and grid-independent, which is a big deal in remote areas and for people with disabilities who rely on a fixed phone line for fall detection services.

Also, traditional landlines are keyed to a specific building and address, which means 911 emergency services can accurately pinpoint their location. This feature is unavailable on digital alternatives, such as VoIP-based home phones and cell phone apps, which route calls to the nation's 911 call centers differently.

Best Journaling Supplies 2023

Journaling is great for the soul. If you love writing, memory keeping, scrapbooking or just creating these are my favorite picks thus far.


Gorgeous Steam Punk Inspired Quill Set - $25.99


Comes with: 1 quill pen,1 bottle of ink Black, 1 heart shaped pen holder, 5 replaceable stainless steel in 

different sizes, 1 envelope, 1 antique type paper, 1 bookmark, 1 "gear design" Seal Stamper,

1 bottle of *color wax beads, 1 white candle, 1 melting spoon, 1 envelope opener


I absolutely love it! The set is not only beautiful but full of everything you need to write like Ms.

Whistledown in Bridgeton.


It just feel amazing to use a quill and dip into the ink.


My Review:


Beautiful Steam Punk set. I am in love with the look. The pen, ink, letter opener, heart shape pen holder are

PERFECT. These are not just extra pen tips as stated but different sizes so you can do thin to thicker writing. 

Great starter set. The ink is quality, and the tips holds ink. This fountain pen is even better than my more 

expensive pen.


The book marker was too tight on my journal and made a mark but it is pretty cool.

I love the idea of the candle, wax in a jar and the spoon for melting the wax but do not do it. We have used 

wax melting in the past and know how to to. The spoon got very hot and turned black on the bottom. I won’t 

be using it again to melt wax. The wax didn’t melt enough to liquify to be perfectly pourable. It was thick and 

stringy. We used the stamper to press it anyway, but the stamp wouldn’t come off the wax. Eventually it tore 

the paper.

With these few flaws I do think this could be a great starter set. The aesthetics are on point. I love the way it

looks. Worth it for the pen, ink, stamper, letter opener, holder and pen tips


Beautiful Stickers $12.99


I am in love with everything about these stickers. The

 box is pretty, the stickers are stunning. I really cannot 

wait to use some of them and have so many ideas. They

are truly inspired my future layouts.


There are 100 stickers which includes two sets of each 

stickers. 50 Different beautiful girl stickers and a spare.


They graphics are pretty, I didn’t see any blur or weird 

lines or coloring. There are so many 

ways these can be used on your mixed media, phone 

case, laptop, notebooks, journals,

scrapbooks or whatever.


Definitely will purchase more from this company now that

I have seen the amazing quality.
















Vision Board Book Full Of Colorful Photos To Inspire 
You. $18.95


This book has everything you could ever want for your

vision boards, journaling, scrapbooking or 

whatever. I love adding my own photos but sometimes I 

need a certain photo based on a feeling or

thought. This is the book! 


There are over 800 pictures from babies, graduation, new 

homes, work, travel, friendship, money, pregnancy and way 

more.


There is an 8 x 10 of a beautiful photo and then smaller 

versions including that 8 x 10 photo.


The pages are perforated so you can easily tear them out 

and cut what you want. 


I love it!





2 Inch Circle Cutter $12.99






This circle cutter makes 2” circles out of any paper.
Easy to use. There is a tiny marker on the side of the cutter so you can make sure you have a complete circle.
Easy push and the bottom stores all your circles until you are ready to use. Slide the bottom and remove the 

circles.
Great for journaling, art journaling or any use where you need to make a 2” circle.

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Beyond The Grave ON VOD SEPTEMBER 5 #beyondthegrave

 


TRAILER

Have you ever wondered what happens when we die? 

Do you wish you knew if the loved ones who have passed are still with you? Proud of you? 

Are there people who can talk to the dead? 

If you have these questions and more you need to watch Beyond The Grave, a documentary I just watched and will be thinking about all night. Serena DC spoke with those who have had near death experiences, Scientists, Doctors, and even Andrea Parron who lived through the experiences of The Conjuring. It was very thought provoking! I was captivated and interested from the start. 

A professional documentary on a topic that many of us are interested in but have seen too many hokey, fake ghost hunting type shows to believe anymore.  Like Andrea says, “Our perception of death is wrong!” 

❤❤❤❤❤

Los Angeles, CA – August 9, 2023  – Beyond the Grave, filmmaker Serena DC’s insightful documentary on what happens after we die, has been acquired by Uncork’d Entertainment for a digital release this fall.

Death is the only certainty we have in life, and yet we know so little about it. The pic will explore the different aspects of the afterlife including near death experiences, channeling the dead and the attempt to extend one's lifespan thru cryonics.

 

After living through a global pandemic, in 2022 death has been placed at the forefront of our lives however what actually happens to us when we die is still shrouded in mystery. There are some cultures who believe that death is truly the end however there is a growing community of people around the world who claim to have had near death experiences. These people, in the 10's of millions believe that they have travelled beyond the grave & have proof of the afterlife & that consciousness lives on after our bodies die. If this is true then can the terminally ill freeze their bodies at the time of death, to be brought back to life & healed in the future? There are others who possess a 6th sense & claim to have conversations with the dead or have experienced paranormal phenomena involving visitations by ghosts. Does this mean that humans can communicate with the spirits of people who have died and if so, can these spirits come back to haunt us?

 

Serena DC meets with the world's leading scientists, doctors, experts, mediums & paranormal investigators to discover if there really is life Beyond The Grave.

 

“Appealing to both a true crime and conspiracy theory audience, as well as those genuinely interested in what happens after we depart, is one immersive, captivating documentary”, said Keith Leopard, President Uncork’d Entertainment. “Fans of Gates of Heaven and Afterlife will find this beautiful new companion piece on digital in September.”

 

Serena DC is the internationally recognized TV Star, Screenwriter, and Executive Producer who created the feature film "Contact - The CE-5 Experience" starring Dr. Steven Greer, the Emmy nominated documentary "My Transparent Life" & Emmy nominated series "Hollywood Disclosure" which has just finished airing on Hulu across the USA & the reality series “Dream Life" which is currently airing on worldwide on Pluto TV.

 

Serena DC, Miko Allyn, and Lance Mungia produced the film.

 

Beyond the Grave will release on Digital September 5, 2023.

 

About Uncork’d Entertainment

 

Uncork’d Entertainment was founded in July, 2012 by Keith Leopard, a Home Entertainment industry veteran with more than 23 years of experience in purchasing, acquisitions, merchandising, marketing and analysis of major studio and independent supplier to the home entertainment market.


The Company focuses on distribution in six areas: Digital Media, Physical Home Entertainment, Aggregation, Theatrical and Television, Foreign Sales, and has secured relationships across all platforms to ensure your film reaches the widest audience possible.

Keith and his team are committed to maximizing revenue, controlling costs, and assuring their Content Partners the highest quality of service, a commitment to market and merchandise their film and a rewarding experience by partnering with Uncork’d Entertainment.