Winter is coming: Carver's guide to saving money during the cold months

It’s about that time of year, again, when the days start to get a little cooler, and the nights may even become chilly.  September, October, and November are my favorite time of year.  The leaves begin to change color, the air gets cooler, and the humidity begins to break.  We don’t really have the most brutal winters here at UT Tyler, but it does get pretty cold by Texas standards, and with this cold comes a couple of costly issues, like heating, and having to use more artificial lighting.  Thus, I have decided to compile a list of helpful tips to help you survive the brutal Texas winter.

·         Adjust your lighting

This won’t be your biggest problem, but it does get darker earlier during the winter, so you will begin to have to use your lights a little more, and your electricity bill will likely get a little higher.  To counteract this, try replacing your light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs to minimize electricity use.  This will save you some money.

·         Start getting ready to layer your clothing

Obviously, it will begin to get a little colder.  If you aren’t prepared to start layering your clothing, then maybe start buying jackets, long sleeve shirts, and jeans.  If you start purchasing one item at a time now, then you will be perfectly prepared by December.

·         Set your thermostat lower than what you want

During the summer, you have to be careful about setting your thermostat too low because it is so hot outside.  However, the winter creates the exact opposite situation.  No one likes a freezing house, but if you set your temperature a few degrees lower than what you really want, then you will save more than you might think!

·         Prepare vehicles and such 

Automobiles are extremely susceptible to issues during cold weather.  For one, purchase an ice scraper to get frost off of your windshield in the morning.  Additionally, you should check your car’s tires, coolant, and brakes to make sure everything can withstand the drop in temperature.

·         If you plan to travel, pack accordingly 

If you travel during the winter, then read weather forecasts for the places you will be traveling and make sure you are prepared for the area.  Don’t dress for a Texas winter if you’re going to be in New York for Christmas.

·         Seal any leaks in your doors or windows

Make sure that your doors and windows properly seal the cold weather outside, otherwise your electricity bills will go through the roof, and it will be way too cold to be inside. 

·         Prepare plants, pets, and what have you for cold weather.

If you have pets or plants that stay outside during the day, you may want to consider moving them inside, or providing some form of shelter from the cold like a dog house, or maybe even a sweater for your animals.  For plants, your best bet is just to find a spot for them in your house.

This isn't an all-inclusive list, however hopefully with this you can begin to get an idea of everything required to save some cash during the cold winter months!

Warning: Winter Weather Woes at UT Tyler

If you haven’t heard it already, here in Texas we have a saying about our weather: “If you don't like it, wait a minute.” Having lived in this state for my entire life, I can vouch for the validity of this statement. Our highs and lows can vary by 40°F for a single given day, and storms and cold snaps are known to creep up on Texans from seemingly out of nowhere.

It may sound interesting and kind of neat, but it’s very good to be aware that dangerous weather can happen around here at the drop of a hat. (On that note, if you click here, you can get weather alerts sent as texts to your cellphones! It’s really useful.) In this blog, though, I want to direct your attention to weather we may not all know how to handle and can expect more of early this semester: the Winter Weather Woes.

Last Day, GREAT Day!

Today is officially my last to work in our Call Center here at The University of Texas at Tyler. That statement is very bitter sweet for me. I have absolutely LOVED my time here, and I was so lucky to have been given the opportunity to work here throughout the semester. I've made some awesome new friends , and I am excited to keep following this blog myself to keep up with them!

Yes, this is me TODAY on my last day. I'm sad, and it's cold! 

So, although I will miss this job and all of the friends that I have been so fortunate to work with, I am still greatly anticipating the events that are still to come in my life. A quick update: I've had a couple more interviews with potential full-time employers, and should be hearing back from them within the next few days. Hopefully I can soon start the next chapter in my life!

In closing, I hope that you all have enjoyed my small presence in your life! I hope that you've enjoyed reading these blogs, hearing from me on the phone, working with me, or being in class with me! It's nice to be able to look back on this semester and know that I made the right decision to finish up my college career by taking classes here at UT Tyler.

My final piece of advice to you all is this: Don't be afraid to do what makes you happy. Life is too short to stay on the straight and narrow path because that is what others expect of you. Whether you're looking into colleges, about to start college, or nearing graduation, please take some time to reflect on YOUR wants and needs, and follow those desires! Other people may think that you're crazy, but it could turn out to be a great, mysterious, and beautiful adventure. 

It's still my last day, but I'm happy with the opportunities that I've had this semester. :)

Much <3

Kat

Colder Weather at UT Tyler

So, as we all know, the weather is starting to get cooler and fall is setting in. Most people welcome this change with open arms! However, I prefer the summer, so right about now is when I grudgingly drag out my winter clothes and coats. (I was unprepared for this weather in Family Ties).

See? I can tolerate the cold weather, just not for long periods of time.

Now it's that time of year again, where the buildings won't turn on their heaters yet, but it's too cold for the air! Today at work with my fellow UT Tyler Bloggers , I am keeping warm in the office by wearing my PEA COAT while inside! And, I still can't feel my toes! :O 

A few Facts About Kat: 

1. I am very cold-natured. Even during the hottest times of the year, I am often cold inside and/or during the nights. 
2. I love ice cream, Icees, popsicles, Blizzards...and pretty much any frozen, delicious treat of sugary goodness. 
3. If it didn't cost about $1,847,293.47 to always have a space heater running in my bedroom, I would absolutely do it. 

So, today at work when we were enjoying some delicious ice cream for funsies, I did so while wearing my winter gear inside. Take a look: 

My love for ice cream extends beyond my frozen toes and fingers! 

STAY WARM out there, my fellow Patriots and friends!