You wouldn't spend years sitting on the couch eating chips and expect your body to be in good health, would you? Would you also expect your car to be in good condition if you neglected it for years?
The truth is, we need to take care of our things. And you can save a lot of money by taking care of your car. Here is my top 5 list for saving money on car repairs (and keeping up your resale value.)
#1 Perform all scheduled maintenance
Air Filters, brake pads, transmission fluids, fans, alternators, oil filters, belts, fuses, lights, windshield wipers, spark plugs.... This is just a small list of the things that need to be maintained and that can easily fail. Having your car routinely checked out can save you on major headaches in the future.
#2 Keep it clean
Why would you spend thousands of dollars on a vehicle, just to use it as your trash heap? If your kids throw cheerios on the floor, pick them up! Or better yet, have a no eating in the car policy (that will keep your car clean and help your waistline!).
I have a friend that let her children stick gum all over the seats in her brand new minivan. Her husband ended up cutting the gum out of the seats. What a waste! Their car lost a tremendous amount of value when they cut apart the seats. And you lose value by letting snow and ice rust your exterior. Or dirt and grime cause chips and dents.
And your car loses tremendous resale value if it's filthy or smells inside. Even imagine the customers/friends you might lose if they step into a dirty mess of a car.
#3 Keep your gas tank and tires full
Running out of gas will cost you big time. It may destroy your engine, but it will certainly destroy your day. You'll be late. You'll have to pay a fine or a fee for assistance. Plus keeping your tank low, makes it harder to start your car in the winter - putting extra stress on the starter and engine.
Filling your tires makes sure you get the optimum gas mileage. And it means you're checking the tires regularly for damage. A few months ago, I noticed a bulge in one of my tires and $170 later, I was told that it was only a matter of days before that tire would have blew out.
I would have been stranded. My rims and axles could have also been damaged, and if I was on the freeway, it's possible I could have been involved in a collision or serious accident.
#4 Drive responsibly and respectfully.
If you drive like a maniac, it goes without saying that you are risking your life and the lives of others. But you are also guzzling more gasoline and risking damage to your vehicle. You are also risking a ticket from the police - and the resulting increase in your insurance premiums.
Driving is a privilege, not a right. Show respect on the road!
#5 Keep your Insurance up-to-date and make sure you have enough insurance!
Make sure you keep your insurance up-to-date and make sure you have enough coverage! I can not stress this enough. About 10 years ago, my sister was in a collision while driving my car.
You can also save by preparing for future needs by signing up for programs like the Allstate Good Hands Roadside Assistance program.
It's a service offering pay-as-you-go roadside assistance. You don't need to have Allstate insurance to use this service, there are no monthly fees (you only pay when you use it!) and it's easy to sign up. You can sign up for free below:
By pre-registering, you will receive a welcome kit in the mail containing a wallet card, key fob, and window cling with the phone number for roadside help. You'll have the help available in case anything comes up.
So what are you waiting for? You can sign up using the widget today! And even better - Allstate is offering one Suburban Jungle reader a $50 Amazon Gift Card.
To Enter: Share your best piece of advice for keeping your car in top operating condition. Leave your answer in the comments below - this is a mandatory first entry and must be completed before any other entries.
Bonus Entries:
- For 2 extra entries - Leave a comment when you Register for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program (it's free - just use the widget above and enter your email address) below telling me that you signed up. (I will tally the entries)
- For 2 extra entries - Leave a comment when you Download the mobile app and comment that you downloaded it
- For 1 extra entry -Leave a comment and your tweet url if you tweet the following: {Just entered the Allstate #ghrgiftcardgiveaway via @suburbanjung Could win a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Your turn! http://tinyurl.com/3joag3z}
- For 1 extra entry - Leave a comment with your link url if you share this giveaway on Facebook (through the widget or by including this link)

391 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1 – 200 of 391 Newer› Newest»Keeping on top of routine maintenance - oil changes, etc.
jebond76@gmail.com
Tweeted it: https://twitter.com/#!/ratetheplateut/status/105669376639893504.
jebond76@gmail.com
Don't skimp on the routine maintenance! Find an independent mechanic you can trust and listen to his recommendations, especially any information he gives about upcoming things you'll need to do - that way, you can budget for it and it's not quite as bad!
spehcialk at aol dot com
I always get my routine checks and work done by a dealer. This way the mechanics and inspectors have a lot of knowledge and know all the ins and out of your vehicle!
bukaeyes@aol.com
Tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/bukaeyes/status/105672104216768512
bukaeyes@aol.com
Keep the oil changed and tires rotated.
huntandride@hotmail.com
Registered.
huntandride@hotmail.com
#1
Registered.
huntandride@hotmail.com
#2
tweeted. https://twitter.com/#!/jen_r_horn/status/105673531228045312
huntandride@hotmail.com
My tip is to change your tires often enough!
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I downloaded the mobile app!
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
#1
I downloaded the mobile app!
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
#2
I signed up for the Roadside Assistance program!
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
#1
I signed up for the Roadside Assistance program!
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
#2
I tweeted, I'm @AmberGoo:
https://twitter.com/#!/AmberGoo/status/105676766714142720
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I shared this giveaway on Facebook, my FB name is Amanda Moore:
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=223013097746013&id=804795642
Thank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I make sure I do all the regular maintenance like oil changes and general spot checks of other systems by a professional.
apoalillo {AT} hotmail (dot) com
Make sure to check your oil levels weekly, this way you can tell if your car is burning too much
adankleff at gmail dot com
Make the calendar and always remember to have your car checked regularly.
http://twitter.com/#!/tcarolinep/status/105688129708625920
shared on FB.http://www.facebook.com/#!/tcarolinep/posts/246005492105704
Routine maintenance, of course! jimandboys@gmail.com
Stick to your maintenance schedule.
Always change your oil at the recommended mileage
My best advice is to have ones's car checked over by a trusted mechanic before a long road trip.
LWons@HotMail.com
get it serviced at regular intervals
jcwga@hotmail.com
Don't wait till the very end to refill your car with gas. In some instances this can cause serious problems with the engine. Plus it isn't fun being stranded somewhere out in the pitch dark.
crochet4hats[at]gmail[dot]com
My best piece of advice for keeping my car in top operating condition is regular oil changes and keep up on all maintance issues. helenkeeler@comcast.net
Routine maintenance is the most important for keeping your car in top operating condition. dguillen at kc dot rr dot com
Registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program dguillen at kc dot rr dot com
Registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program dguillen at kc dot rr dot com Entry #2
My husband keeps a spreadsheet that he checks often with the maintenance he has to do and has done already on the car.
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
I shared on FB with the widget. My FB username is Mary Happymommy.
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
http://twitter.com/#!/guillenwins/status/105714477995008000 dguillen at kc dot rr dot com
tweeted:
http://twitter.com/#!/mami2jcn/status/105714782103015424
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
https://www.facebook.com/#!/aliasr2/posts/209666969088862 dguillen at kc dot rr dot com
Always take it in for a oil change every 3 months and have regular maintance done too
stanleybilly(at)bellsouth(dot)net
Get your oil changed every 3000 miles and change your air filter every 3rd oil change.
Rotate your tires too.
dawns_horizen@yahoo.com
routine maintenance
I'd say rotate your tires - makes for a better driving experience, too! :)
gen (at) northcoastgardening.com
Always use covered parking.
elysesw@aol.com
Regular Maintainance and cleaning keeps your car in the best shape. Don't wait until there is a problem
Tweeted
https://twitter.com/#!/mbrennan37c/status/105731278430674944
if you live in utah, make sure to rinse off the salt regularly!
sarahinskeep (at) hotmail.com
routine maintenance / oil changes, etc..
sheather703 @ aol dot com
Don't overlook a fluid fill...Every two weeks my husband checks my fluid levels (wiper fluid, antifreeze, oil etc) and fills when they're low. Keeping your fluids filled eliminates costly repairs later and lets you know in advance when you might have a problem (like an oil leak).
shel704 at aol dot com
I registered for the Roadside Assistance program (Michelle Hudak)
shel704 at aol dot com
#1
I registered for the Roadside Assistance program (Michelle Hudak)
shel704 at aol dot com
#2
I downloaded the mobile app for my iphone
shel704 at aol dot com
#1
I downloaded the mobile app for my iphone
shel704 at aol dot com
#2
Shared on Facebook: Michelle Hudak
shel704 at aol dot com
I would say the best way to care for your car is to make sure you have it inspected every year!
thecountryblossom at hotmail dot com
tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/KatyLMA/status/105739715961028608
thecountryblossom at hotmail dot com
Have regular oil changes and scheduled maintenance to keep your car in good shape.
rhoneygtn at yahoo dot com
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/rhoneygee/status/105740618914996224
rhoneygtn at yahoo dot com
Tweeted:
http://twitter.com/#!/auntiethesis/status/105738684934008832
shel704 at aol dot com
getting regular oil changes!
fall_out_girl(at)comcast(dot)net
Of course get car tune and check up every 3 months, but I also feel I clean car is a happy car!
Antoinette
trendstolend@hotmail.com
I tweeted the giveaway @littleruk
http://twitter.com/#!/littleruk/status/105747914709667840
fall_out_girl(at)Comcast(dot)net
Best thing you can do is get your oil changed every few months and regular fluid replacements and tune ups.
http://twitter.com/#!/vloky/status/105757246750863360 tweeted
I make sure to get oil changes as recommended, check the tires are properly inflated and get tune ups as needed.
Thanks so much.
rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com
Register for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program
Thanks
rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com
Entry 1
Register for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program
Thanks
rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com
Entry 2
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/peg42/status/105760113918345218
Thanks
rickpeggysmith(at)aol(dot)com
Keep the oil changed!
whit1966@gmail.com
Oil Changes, often instead of putting it off. Also washing regularly.
kittiecorpses091@yahoo.com
Check the oil and engine often to make sure everything works good.
elena150980@yahoo.com
http://twitter.com/#!/ElenaIstomina/status/105773498517028864
elena150980@yahoo.com
I registered for the Roadside Assistance program
elena150980@yahoo.com
I registered for the Roadside Assistance program
elena150980@yahoo.com
#2
My tip is to check the engine and oil often.
austma7@aol.com
Definitely keeping up with oil changes and other routine maintenance. Hubby is good at this. He keeps a checklist of when and what is done and repaired.
tweety800265(at)yahoo(dot)com
Shared on facebook. FB name Jan Peoples
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=201746366554473&id=100000080232560
tweety800265(at)yahoo(dot)com
Tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/disneyfan40/status/105783168321327104
tweety800265(at)yahoo(dot)com
I make sure to have the oil changed every 3,000 mi!!
pittsy82@Hotmail.com
tweeted http://twitter.com/#!/pittsy82/status/105784778405584896
pittsy82@hotmail.com
The best advice is the most basic--keep the oil and filters changed and keep the tires properly inflated.
bethelderton59 at gmail dot com
http://twitter.com/#!/mbm218/status/105803704602595328
bethelderton59 at gmail dot com
Oil Changes and regular tune ups
mychicmommy@gmail.com
www.mychicmommy.blogspot.com
Address issues as soon as they come up. A little strange sound turns into a big one, which means a much bigger price tag as well. If you get it checked out right away it might not be such a big deal.
Mandatory: Make sure you keep oil changes up to date, and you don't have to be experienced to buy a know-how book to keep things such as washer fluid, etc up to code.
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
#1 I registered for the program (Michelle Sanchez).
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
#2 I registered for the program.
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
Downloaded the app entry 1 of 2.
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
Downloaded the app entry 2 of 2.
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
Tweet: https://twitter.com/#!/MiMichelle_03/status/105823576019578880
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
Shared on FB https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=272552006093658&id=100002590774517
mnsanchez15@yahoo.com
Get oil changes regularly! I learned that the hard way:)
Happysoul12 at att dot net
Regular maintenance schedule, cleaning & detailing. Oh, and never run on less than a 1/4 tank of gas.
kerri92630(at)yahoo(dot)com
regular oil changes and tune-ups so in to mechanic as scheduled (and when you hear something odd)
tvollowitz at aol dot com
you have to keep on top of routine maintenance
chris.r.coff at gmail . com
No eating in the car!!
cmbender@benderhome.net
Don't buy something heavy and then drive around with it in your trunk for weeks. Unload as soon as you get home. The extra weight in the car will guzzle gas, among other things.
Thanks for the opportunity!
Wes
sunburnfreezerburn@hotmail.com
I always make sure to get my oil changed on time and have my mechanic look at it.
sassysasha817 at gmail dot com
tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/ThriftySassyMam/status/105853373865132032
sassysasha817 at gmail dot com
Ck the fluids, tires & make sure gas gauge is accurate.
leapnlissa at yahoo dot com
tweeted:
http://twitter.com/#!/LissaL/status/105869807680897026
leapnlissa at yahoo dot com
Regular oil changes!
Check for proper level of fluids and get regular oil changes.
lyndadawinda1074 at yahoo dot com
I tweeted - https://twitter.com/#!/Lyndadawinda/status/105895080413511681
lyndadawinda1074 at yahoo dot com
Make sure you rotate your tires to get equal wear on them.
twoofakind12@yahoo.com
Follow your cars recommended maintainance schedule.
Run the health check button in your car every so often.
hellrzr(at)juno(dot)com
tweet
https://twitter.com/#!/mrcheapo/status/105969279375114240
hellrzr(at)juno(dot)com
Shared on FB.
mrcheapo
http://www.facebook.com/mrcheapo/posts/222860754428180
hellrzr(at)juno(dot)com
Keep the oil changed and the tires properly inflated
Treat your car like your baby, if your baby needed to see a Doctor you would bring your baby in, so if your car needs to see the mechanic don't procrastinate, do it!
Always check fluids
bec.shockley@gmail.com
I have previously signed up for Allstate Roadside Assistance.
Tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/clc408/status/105972401283665920
registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program as rebecca shockley
bec.shockley@gmail.com
#1
registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program as rebecca shockley
bec.shockley@gmail.com
#2
tweeted
https://twitter.com/#!/mngirlinssp/status/105973267520696320
bec.shockley@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/#!/permalink.php?story_fbid=150949994989879&id=1849884229
shared on FB
I always get my car washed regularly especially living in Ohio with all the snow and salt - it keeps it in good condition and no rust!
jessica.ward.ss at gmail.com
tweeted this giveaway! - http://twitter.com/#!/Jessica_Ward_ss/status/105977358007283713
jessica.ward.ss at gmail.com
Best advice - keep your tires correctly inflated.
This will help them to last longer.
Thank you.
barbara (dot) montyj (at) gmail (dot) com
Tweet:
http://twitter.com/#!/JalapenoMama/status/105979671568596993
Get oil changed every 3-5,000 miles.
hewella1 at gmail dot com
don't let your gas run too low, fill it up at a quarter tank and keep up on those oil changes!
hippopurplemonkey at yahoo dot com
My best advice is to take your car in regularly for all scheduled maintenance. I had a junker car last time, and I didn't follow that advice and I paid for it. I have a new car, now, and I am making service appointments a priority.
Jennifer
jennifereladd at yahoo dot com
I tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/jenniferladd/status/105988890371956736
jennifereladd at yahoo dot com
Keep on top of your oil changes
Keep the brakes in shape!
Tarah
tarah716[at]ymail.com
Every time we buy a new-to-us vehicle, we take it to be undercoated and then we follow up each year with the touch up (included in the original purchase price). This keeps salt and road dirt from eating away at the undercarriage and floors.
The Happy Wife/Danielle
ldsmom2201 at yahoo dot com
http://juanshappywife.blogspot.com
Twitter: The_Happy_Wife
Change the oil on a regular basis and check the air pressure in the tires.
cjbstar@hotmail.com
My tip is to check your tires regularly, I forgot about mine and they were down to 10 psi! I'm surprised I didn't have a blowout, yikes I'm dumb!
hblaser at gmail dot com
http://twitter.com/#!/prismperfect/status/106007833874665472
Well I guess mine would be to make sure you marry a guy where both his father and brother are mechanics, haha sad/bad I know but I know nothing about cars since I don't like driving much
disintegratingstarr@hotmail.com
Always listen to your car - - um - - don't turn up the radio and ignore the funny sounds it's making! thanks. irishluck1114@yahoo.com
My advice is to find a trustworthy inexpensive mechanic and take your car in if the smallest thing seems wrong. A little problem can turn into a big expensive problem.
smchester at gmail dot com
Regular oil changes, keeping the tires inflated
I registered for the roadside program under my name Susan Chester.
smchester at gmail dot com
I registered for the roadside program under my name Susan Chester.
smchester at gmail dot com
Routine maintenance like oil changes are very important, plus it has the added bonus of having an expert eye look at your vehicle and spotting potential problems before they escalate. For instance, on a routine oil change recently, the attendant pointed out a fan belt that was about ready to go. Saved me a LOT of hassle in the long run!
tnshadylady at gmail.com
http://twitter.com/#!/tnshadylady/status/106021255253200896
My hubby keeps up on the oil changes and tire checks. He's good at all that stuff. thank you!
crystalfaulkner2000 at yahoo dot com
Don't overlook regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, brake checks, etc.
talonsmom731 at gmail dot com
My husband is our car guy and he does a great job of keeping our cars in good driving condition. He checks the air in the tires regularly, gets the oil changed and even gases up both our cars. I love it!
jtckkataoldotcom
Joyce H
Oil changes every 3000 miles...no matter what.
Thanks for the chance.
mogrill12@gmail.com
Tip: Coast when you can when coming up to a stop sign or traffic light.
Tip: Always check your fluids!
-Bekah
madame.kent at yahoo dot com
Shared on FB!
http://www.facebook.com/#!/permalink.php?story_fbid=229908453721477&id=100002802923323
-Bekah Kent
madame.kent at yahoo dot com
I think to keep it running well, the key is oil changes! I think the key to keeping the inside nice and pretty is to clean it out often! it's so easy to let it junk up!
leigh dot onedayatatime at gmail dot com
Regular maintenance like oil changes on time to keep your car running well
I always make sure I get my oil changed in time and I'm pretty good about checking my alignment and getting my tires rotated.
bbkling@gmail.com
My best advice is to find someone you trust to look over any issues that may come up!
Thanks,
selinda_mccumbers at yahoo.com
I tweeted your information:
http://twitter.com/#!/SelindaMcCumber/status/106075139136962560
Thanks,
selinda_mccumbers at yahoo.com
i get regular oil changes and rotate my tires all the time.
flyergal82 AT (yahoo) /dot/ $com#
i downloaded the app.
flyergal82 AT (yahoo) /dot/ $com#
i downloaded the app 2
flyergal82 AT (yahoo) /dot/ $com#
My best tip is to get all the recommended maintenance done on your car with a service center you trust.
jtmagmom73(at)gmail(dot)com
My best advice is to get regular oil changes
jjak2003 at gmail dot com
I tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/jjak2003/status/106112315891515392
jjak2003 at gmail dot com
Make sure that routine maintenance is performed on schedule. If you ever hear a strange noise or if something just doesn't feel right with the car, take it in and have it checked out, even if you are not sure that something is wrong.
Never leave your car outside during the winter.
awtry13@gmail.com
My best tips would be to check your tire pressure and fluid levels regularly to make sure your car is operating properly, especially during summer and winter months or before long trips. I also suggest getting the tires rotated whenever you have your oil changed (and to go to a trusted mechanic or dealer to get oil changes rather than the quicky places, which I've had horrible experiences with). Thanks!
gkaufmanss@yahoo.com
1. I'm registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program: gkaufmanss@yahoo.com
2. I'm registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program: gkaufmanss@yahoo.com
I tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/guettel78/status/106134851538784257
gkaufmanss@yahoo.com
I shared on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=155578624523918&id=100000212093624
gkaufmanss@yahoo.com
change the oil and buy high quality tires
I think the most important thing you can do to maintain your vehicle is to change the oil regularly. asthenight at gmail dot com
I registered for the Allstate Roadside Assistance Program.
befriend a mechanic who won't necessarily be working on your car, so whenever you need a repair, etc. you can be unbiased advice about what to expect, pay, etc.
contactlillea at gmail dot com
tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/LilleaBrionn/status/106153064687337472
contactlillea at gmail dot com
Don't forget to check your tire pressure regularly.
Ee keep on top of maintenance
Maintenance! Maintenance! Maintenance! I take mine to the dealer on a regular basis. It's almost 13 years old and still working perfectly.
iridia718 at gmail dot com
I've got three words: Aquanil waterless carwash! it rocks!
ecoblogz at gmail dot com
My best piece of advice is to get the car's regular maintenance done before something stops working.
KellywcuATyahooDOTcom
tweeted
http://twitter.com/#!/kellysaver/status/106177444356177920
kellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Shared giveaway on FB
http://www.facebook.com/#!/kellywcu/posts/239530016083199
kellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Have your oil changed every 3000 miles.
tara.huff(at)gmail(dot)com
tweet
http://twitter.com/#!/huffychic/status/106194153758654464
tara.huff(at)gmail(dot)com
get routine maintenance.
holliister at gmail dot com
Go to car manufacturer's web site and get the schedule of maintenance for recommended for your car and follow it!
sksweeps (at) earthlink (dot) net
Make sure your tire's have enough air, and don't carry around a lot of extra weight in your trunk (helps gas mileage too!)
margueritescoupons@gmail.com
nice post. Now you can free list your cars products business in indian business directories. Click here Importers Portal.
I get a regular inspection and oil change.
henglish at nb dot sympatico dot ca
tweet: http://twitter.com/#!/henglish/status/106326900888174592
Keep your trunk clear of extra stuff, the weight eats gas.
clean car monthly
get the recommended services
Always get your oil changed on time and other services every few months or every so many miles.
kport207 at gmail dot com
My top advice - Marry a guy who takes care of the cars for you.
amybabya79 at yahoo.com
http://twitter.com/#!/ambabya/status/106449509692866560
amybabya79 at yahoo.com
Routine maintenance. Don't slack off on things like oil changes or you will be sorry! (not that I've done that or anything... ahem)
monorox (at) gmail (dot) com
change the oil every 3 months
letessha@yahoo.com
registered for allstate
letessha@yahoo.com
2
registered for allstate
letessha@yahoo.com
I tweeted the giveaway.
http://twitter.com/#!/dahliamomma/status/106491695708897280
Get a tune up every half a year, keep your oil good and drive properly! :]
ekieuuu@gmail.com
cbange oil on a regular schedule
ptreskovich at hotmail dot com
http://twitter.com/#!/pattie43/status/106532335226322944
ptreskovich at hotmail dot com
My husband is a stickler about keeping our oil changed on schedule and the tires rotated.
regular oil changes and advice from car talk guys!
We always send the car in for regular maintenance. It's important to keep your car in tip-top shape!
gagaslab at gmail dot com
Tweeted -
http://twitter.com/#!/pinksade/status/106681381928706049
gagaslab at gmail dot com
Routine maintenance is key.
katfam95 at aim dot com
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Thank you for your comments! I appreciate all your tips, advice, and well wishes!
Angela