Get ready to read your auto insurance policy! If you haven’t recently paid attention to your coverage limits, now will be a good time to see if you’re affected by the new WI auto insurance laws. Changes that will be most noticeable to policy holders will be:

1. Mandatory Uninsured (UM) and Underinsured (UIM) coverage of at least 100,000 per person / 300,000 per accident

2. Minimum coverage for Medical used to be 1000, will now be 10,000.

3. Minimum coverage for liability will now be:

                                  Old Minimum              New Minimum

Bodily Injury              25,000/50,000             50,000/100,000

Property Damage        10,000                         15,000

4. Effective 6/1/10 – Providing proof of insurance is MANDATORY (the law). Anyone operating a motor vehicle must be able to show proof when requested. Hence, this is when officers will start ticketing for not having insurance.  

Molly Moua, Agent

1^st Light Insurance

Ever feel like you’re constantly on the go, agonizing over every detail or unconsciously or consciously taking on more than you can handle? Only to stress your mental and physical self out? It never occurred to me but I recently read an article that said stress can be an addiction.

As far back as high school, I can remember always striving to be and do, more. Not just trying to get good grades but balancing multiple projects, volunteer activities, sports, work, newspaper staff and evening college courses. This same need to cram my life has continued into adulthood, of running my own business, single-parenting, Zumba classes, church and sleep (my extracurricular activity).

So needless to say, some days I take a “Me Day” and the world doesn’t exist – only me. But then, I immediately fall back into the same fast-paced routine because it’s where I feel “normal”. To the point where, I will purposely search for an activity if I feel like my schedule is getting too slow. Sound crazy? I know! Maybe I’m just a normal busy bee, but then not having something to worry about doesn’t seem right either. After all, isn’t that what mothers do?   

In recent headline news - a Georgia man gets annoyed at a crying 2 year-old toddler in Walmart and threatens the mom that she needs to shut the girl up, or he will. The toddler continues crying and the man (who is a stranger to the mom and baby) slaps the toddler across the face several times. The man is later charged with cruelty to a child.

Though, I completely agree that this man was wrong for acting out this way, it reminded me of times when I had to withstand the temperament of other people’s children. It’s one thing to deal with a stranger’s child because you simply tolerate it for a short duration and never see them again. But, when it’s a child of someone you know - it can make for an awkward situation that sometimes isn’t so black and white to handle.

If it were my child misbehaving I’d know how to react or what to say, but when it comes to other kids, I find myself taking into consideration many variables: How would their parents feel about me talking to their kid? Should I even say anything? Will this kid even listen? How do I get them to stop? etc…so, much more complex.

Yet, I do feel there are times where it is necessary to discipline other kids. Specifically, if it affects the child’s safety. For instance, too much rough-playing will result in a separation of kids, or running with sticks will result in the sticks being taken away.

In the situation of the Georgia man and toddler, he lashed out at the child without authority nor did he have her best interest in mind.

I used to be a big soda drinker, but for the past few years my choice of beverage has been water. So imagine my bewilderment when I stand in front of the refrigerated beverage aisle and it appears that water now takes up 5 full rows. All nicely tinted with colors, flashy labels and eye popping fonts. Dude, I just want 1 bottled water!

So, do I judge the water bottles by its cover or do I try to figure out what all these fancy terms mean? You guessed it - I choose the later. So, here’s the Bottled Water 101 for those equally confused as me.

(From: http://beverages.suite101.com/article.cfm/kinds_of_bottled_water)

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates the way bottled water is described, and the terms are based on either the source of the water or how it's been processed.

Spring water

Spring water must be drawn from a spring to have this label. That one is a little obvious, I know. A spring is a natural source of water that flows up from the ground under pressure.

Mineral water

Mineral water has at least 250 ppm of naturally occurring dissolved minerals. No minerals can be added after the water is drawn, and the source of the water must be natural (no tap water). Typical minerals found in this kind of water are calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. The exact mineral composition of any mineral water will be different, from brand to brand. Check the labels. PPM stands for parts per million, by the way.

Purified water

Purified water has been thoroughly processed to remove minerals and impurities. Another term is distilled water. Water with this label doesn't have to have a natural source and can be water from a municipal system. In other words, it may simply be purified tap water.

Sparkling water

Sparkling water is water with naturally occurring carbonation, so this does not include manufactured products like soda water or seltzer.

Flavored waters

These are a new product that has quickly become popular among people who want to increase their water intake but really don't like the taste. These water drinks are sweetened with artificial sweetener to keep them calorie free. Though I think it's a good way to have more water, I'm not too keen on the aspartame and sucralose content.

 

Pick a topic from your kid’s school and chances are someone’s already posted the 101 course video on YouTube. Although, I don’t think the original design for YouTube was educational, it truly has established itself as an online academy for math, science and art.

Specifically as a mom, I’ve also found it to be a truly great one-stop resource to video step-by-step instructions on various activities and ideas. It’s also great for people (like me) who are visual learners. So, I thought I’d share a few YouTube videos I like on some random topics. Hope you like them too!

Threadbanger – for people who sew their own fashion

http://www.youtube.com/user/threadbanger?blend=1&ob=4

Videohairstyles – for hair techniques and styles

http://www.youtube.com/user/videohairstyles

Fitness – Zumba by Kelloggs (can link into Spanish versions too – but easy to follow along)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k70q3WXhyfI&feature=related

Cooking – Kraft Cooking School (great meals, desserts, appetizers etc)

http://www.youtube.com/user/KraftCookingSchool

I was reminded (once again), that change is inevitable. I manage a lot of my personal accounts online and when I have a question or concern, I know a customer service representative is only a phone call away.                    

Well recently when I was having issues with my cell phone, I went online to search for the tech support phone number. But once I got on the website, in the upper right corner I saw an option to chat with a customer service rep online.

I’ve seen these banners before but never took up the option. Nonetheless, I thought I’d give it a try and low and behold - I went straight to a representative in less than 5 seconds, who immediately greeted me and asked my concern.

So, I’m like…hmmm, no going through 3 phone options, to only hit 0 to be connected to a rep. No hunting for the tech support phone number, and no listening to music as I’m put on hold for the next available representative. So, now I wonder to myself, why I was so hesitant to try it before.

Now, I don’t think I’ll ever be calling a representative if I have an option to chat first. Give it a try to see if you’ll like it as well.  

As defined in Wikipedia...

Helicopter parent - a colloquial, early 21st-century term for a parent who pays extremely close attention to his or her child’s or children’s experiences and problems, particularly at educational institutions. These parents rush to prevent any harm or failure from befalling them and will not let them learn from their own mistakes, sometimes even contrary to the children’s wishes. They are so named because, like helicopters, they hover closely overhead, rarely out of reach, whether their children need them or not.

Is it possible to love and protect your children too much it becomes a hindrance in their personal development?

I believe it’s possible. Loving and protecting our children is great but I also know that it can blind our parental wisdom. My parental wisdom tells me I need to teach my kids for what lies ahead in the future. Because in the future, I won’t always be around, they will become adults and make their own decisions and they will have to learn to fend for themselves – plus, experience many other harsh realities of life. But, that doesn’t mean I won’t pick and choose battles to defend and protect what’s in their best interest along the way - I just won’t be fighting all of them. Plus, I think making mistakes and failing makes us human – so allowing kids to do so, is normal. And who doesn’t want a normal childhood? So go ahead and hover, just allow for some space and distance.

Performance reviews – just the mere mention of the word and I can feel some eyes roll. It can be a dreaded process or a time to showcase your achievements throughout the year. It’s all in how you prepare for it. 

Many times in my career I’ve had to write employee performance reviews or I’ve received performance reviews from my managers. In all cases, my work preparing for the review was never last minute.

Preparing for a performance review should be a year long task. Here are some tips to help you succeed in your next review:

1. Keep a log of accomplishments – Always track your success throughout the year. I will admit…your manager doesn’t know everything that you do, so make sure you tell them. It can be as simple as keeping a folder in your desk of all your achievements. Example of items to keep in your folder:

- Emails or letters from colleagues or clients who have praised your teamwork or assistance

- Write dates of projects you’ve worked on, your role and accomplishments in those projects

- Quantify your achievements and ideas…ie, you saved the company $1000 in paper expenses by creating an electronic form  

2. Keep a copy of your previous performance review – Be sure you have your last review handy. All reviews typically have goals outlined for the upcoming year. Periodically, read those goals since you will be ranked on them and they will be discussed in your next review. If you know you’ll fall short, be sure to engage your manager in your efforts. He/she may steer you in the right direction or know how hard your efforts were and not rate you so harshly. If this is your first review, ask your manager for a blank performance review, so you know what skills you will be ranked on.   

3. Go above and beyond –  So what is above and beyond? It's doing more than you're expected to do. Also, observe your fellow employees and their work ethics. Whether you know it or not, you may be ranked against them. Therefore, look for ways to do more and be more than your peers. Remember, you’re working to further your career - not a job. Going above and beyond is a good trait on any career path.

When you buy a new car, you know you need auto insurance. When you purchase a new home, you know you need home insurance. But when you have a new baby do you instantly think about the need for life insurance? Typically, no - although our lives and families are the most valuable things to us. So, why do we put off buying life insurance? There are plenty of excuses we use, but NOT planning for the inevitable can ultimately cause hardship for the loved ones who survive us.

Here are a few common "excuses" I come across. They sound reasonable to most, but that's because most of us only know part of the story.

1) I have life insurance at work

Boy, if I had a nickel every time I heard this one...! Buying into a group life insurance can be economical, the premiums are fairly low and sometimes completely paid by the company. But like your medical or dental benefits, group life insurance is tied to your employment in the company. So, if you leave your job you also loose the group life insurance coverage. The US Department of Labor says people between the ages of 18 - 38 change jobs an average of 10 times. Even if you were able to stay with the same company for many years, very few of us will work all our lives. And trying to buy life insurance when you're older can cost you more.

Another thing to consider is the amount of life insurance you get. Does the death benefit/amount in a group life insurance adequately cover your personal financial needs or final burial expenses? You don't want to be under-insured on life insurance, so it's always best to talk with an agent who can help you assess how much coverage is enough. Don't let financial burdens way down your family.

2) I'm still young and healthy, I don't need it yet

Try selling life insurance to a 22 year old male who'd rather spend his weekly paycheck on music and fast food. Very tough, but still very necessary. The ideal time to buy life insurance was on your last birthday. Why? Because your age is a big factor in your rates, so the sooner you can lock into your young adult hood, the better. Plus as we age we are prone to develop medical conditions that may impact our eligibility and rates. According to the American Heart Association website, ‘almost two-thirds of Americans currently use medicines: 49 percent use prescription drugs and 30 percent use nonprescription medications'. Most of us will be dependent on some form of medication to prolong our lives, cure an illness or suppress a disease. It's a harsh statistic to accept, but a real part of our life. Trying to purchase life insurance after a medical condition can be difficult, better to be proactive before any potential issues arise.

Another reality is - we don't know when our number is up. We can go at any time, at any age. Life insurance is not just for the old, middle-aged or young - it's for everyone.

3) It costs too much

"Auto insurance - $30 per month, home insurance - $50 per month, life insurance - priceless!" I've seen first hand how NOT having life insurance can hurt a family. Plan now, to leave a financial income for your surviving dependents and provide them peace of mind - there's no value that can be placed on that.

Life insurance costs will vary and so do the rates and plans, you may be surprised at how inexpensive coverage can be. The best way to find out is to get an actual quote, then make a decision.

So, if you currently don't have life insurance - what's your excuse? What's it going to take to get you to step away from your computer monitor and call an agent for more details? Don't wait, don't procrastinate - it can be costing you more every year you put it off and could hit your family even more, when you're gone.

Websites are no longer just for businesses or organizations, they are now being used as personal social media sites that allow you to keep in touch with friends, family, associates or to self-promote. With growing websites like Facebook, MySpace and Twitter the idea of having your own personal webpage has spread online. And what once required web programming language has now been simplified by many websites today. These websites provide common layman instructions any 7 year old can follow - that creating your own webpage is now as easy as 1-2-3 and best yet, it’s free!

Here are a few free websites that allow you to create your own webpage. Have fun creating a webpage that reflects your personality.

www.webs.com

www.wix.com

www.wetpaint.com

I’ve been a single-mom raising two girls for the last 8 years and in my stressed-out, double duty role as parent and provider - there have been plenty of times I’ve stopped and given myself a pep talk. 

So, for all you ladies who work just as hard or if not more – keep up the MOMentum! What you do is appreciated.

In our race for a stable life and loving family, pain and obstacles will confront all of us. But how we handle them determines if we become part of the problem or solution. Be sure that you make progress. Exercise persistence, patience and courage even when progress isn’t apparent. Because you are not failing – you are moving forward.

There is a Confucius quote that says, “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.” While in business, there is another saying that goes - "just KISS it" (keep it simple stupid). So remember happiness has no boundaries, it happens anywhere, everyday and any time you want it. Don’t over think it. Be grateful for the good things in your life and make goals and an action plan for the other things you desire.

Surround yourself within a positive environment, with motivational thoughts and great people and at a minimum, always remember - “you rock”!

It's so difficult to keep up with our kids let alone be in the know about what's going on in today's trends. But here's some clues you're hanging with today's modern metro moms.

1. Your daily local news is emailed to you

2. You wear “outfits”- not clothes, and you carry “handbags” - not purses

3. You know the names of Brad and Angelina’s kids, but sometimes forget your own

4. You can’t pass up a BOGO sale

5. You have moisturizer for different parts of the body

6. You pack a suitcase full of shoes when you travel

7. Your local day spa sends you holiday cards

8. You print coupons online

9. Eating an energy bar is part of a complete breakfast

10. You check your kid’s school grades online and email their teachers

11. You speak the foreign language of text talk - IDK, TTYL and JK

12. You pay and manage your expense accounts online

13. Your cell phone and Bluetooth headset are synced

14. You take the kids to practice, hit the gym and pick up dinner on the way home

15. You double-shot your mocha chino and still need a power-nap

If nothing on this list speaks to you, you're still FABULOUS!

It was three years ago today that I lost a good friend, in the most tragic way. Some of you may remember the headlines about the Mequon husband who took the life of his wife by beating her in their home. The wife’s name was Sin Lam. Though Sin tragically left this world too soon, my thoughts for this blog are on her bright spirit and how her story can be a reminder to all women.

You could not have known a better soul than Sin. She liked to smile, never had harsh words about anyone, maintained a speed walker’s pace for such a petite person, was a dedicated worker and had lots of love for her children.

Sin and I worked at the same company together, but were fortunate to be friends outside of our jobs. I got to know her family and some of her struggles in their marriage. Though she kept most of it private and to herself. I’m sure she did it because she didn’t want others to worry or she thought it was something she could handle on her own. Unfortunate that she could not foresee the tragedy that lay ahead.

I recount the last conversation I had with her over and over and I’m sure it’s natural to wish I could have fully known or helped her in some way, but that moment has long past. The only act I can do now is make sure that other women don’t fall victim the way Sin did. She, like all of us shouldn’t leave this world in such tragedy. It affects our lives, children, family, friends and the community.

Over the years, I’ve come to know many women who had the courage to leave their husbands and those who found it in their hearts to continually forgive and stay with their husbands. I won’t judge on which method is better, but will say no matter the circumstance please recognize that help is available to you, please seek and find it. People want the best for you, but most importantly you must want the best for yourself. Recognize that abuse is a repeated cycle, no matter how much he tries to win you back, apologizes or pleads - it’s not okay to be physically hit, verbally abused or violated.

I once had the opportunity to teach teenage girls in my church many gospel principles. Self-respect was a big topic we discussed. Your body is a temple and you are a daughter of God. Seek men who value the same beliefs, who will treat you with respect and have a good perspective on marriage. I find these principles are applicable even as grown woman.

If you are in a violent relationship or know someone who is - please seek help and learn how to leave the situation as safe as possible. There are local organizations established to assist and guide you through the process. Domestic violence isn’t a personal, private matter it affects everyone.  

When I meet with a client to discuss insurance it’s important for me to understand their priorities and needs – since they’re not all the same. Equally diverse are the insurance companies in the market place today, and the insurance agents who represent them.

Here are a few things you need to know about insurance:

Captive agent vs Independent agent – A captive insurance agent works for one company or brand, while an independent agent works with multiple companies and can sell numerous product brands.

How does this impact you? Both agents can sell multiple lines of insurance (auto, home, life etc…) but an independent agent has the flexibility to sell insurance from different companies – without brand restriction. Imagine for a moment how you’d feel if you had to buy clothes from only one department store. As loyal as you may be to the department store, you can’t help but shop another store for a better styled blouse or better priced item. Thus, think of an independent agent as your personal insurance shopper who can mix and match to meet your needs. All the while, you deal with one agent but tap into multiple companies.

Periodically review your insurance coverage – We go through so many changes in our life. We are single, married, divorced or widowed. We have kids, buy a house, car, boat, motorcycle or RV. We make minimum wage, join the middle class or strike it rich. Just as our lives change so should our insurance coverage. Your insurance coverage needs to adequately cover any potential losses in your life at any given stage. So, if you haven’t changed your coverage limits in awhile - now may be a good time to assess how much is enough.

Don’t buy just on price – The premium you pay for insurance is definitely an important factor but don’t make it your sole reason to buy. I can sell cheap insurance to almost anyone, but I probably wouldn’t be doing them justice. You may lower your insurance coverage to pay a lower rate, but what happens if it’s too low and you’re faced with a large liability claim? When you need your insurance to work, is during these times of loss or claim. So, a quality coverage may mean paying a quality price – not necessarily the lowest. As I also previously mentioned, not all insurance companies are the same. So, review what’s covered in your policy before you decide to buy. Some companies offer extra coverage for a little more but in the long run potentially save you money. For example, I have an insurance company that will waive future violations if you sign up for their program now. Typically, violations may cause an increase in your premiums but by enrolling in the program you lock yourself into a lower rate even with future violations*. At the same time, you build a deductible savings account. These funds are then used to pay your portion of a deductible during a claim. Again, price is important but what's equally important is the quality of your coverage.

*Does not include major violations such as a DUI.

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without the traditional gift giving. Even though good intentions are behind most gifts, we still receive presents we don’t like or don’t fit our particular “style”. Should you keep it - since it was the thought that counts? Or, would you regift it?

The market research company, Harris Interactive, surveyed 1,505 American adults and found over half the participants admitted to regifting and 78 percent felt regifting was okay most of the time.

Just yesterday, I also had the chance to play the White Elephant Gift Exchange game. The premise of the game is to regift an old item you didn't want. There were an array of regift items such as a finger puppet, test tubes, cowboy hat, photo printer and jellied fish bait. The game was very fun and entertaining, but at the same time people were able to give away their “gifts” to someone else who may have wanted it or could have used it better than they had.

What do you think? Do you keep all your presents whether you like them or not? Or, selectively regift them to someone else?

It’s scary to live in the uncertain, but we do it everyday. It’s during economic times like these that we come closer to realizing we’re all susceptible and the worst can happen any day. So, what should we do? Always plan ahead and the worst won't hurt so bad.

Life has risks. It can harbor in dark alleys or be in plain site. It could happen today, next week or next year – you just never know when you’ll be affected. As a single-mom and sole bread winner, I’ve had no other option than to be frugal and cost-conscious with my finances. I’ve also had to help many families prepare for their future financial needs and protection. So, here are some helpful ways we can all prepare our homes and families. They’re a mixture of my personal financial habits, as well as tips I’ve researched.

1. Build a savings and cut down on expenses
1. Set a savings goal that’s realistic for your family, then deduct the same amount from every paycheck. Remember to pay yourself first.
2. Collect the loose change in your pocket at the end of the day. Put it in a jar. When the jar is full, take it to the automatic counter at the bank and deposit it.
3. Reduce your expenses in as many ways as you can, it all adds up: Save money on gas by carpooling or taking the bus. Eat-out less often by cooking more at home. This can be a trickle effect, since leftovers are great for brown bag lunches to school or work - you’ve just hit two birds with one stone. How smart is that?
4. Divide your expenses into two categories - the Essentials vs Luxuries. For example, electricity is an essential while cable TV is a luxury. It’s difficult but tough times call for tough measures.
5. Pay with cash! If you use your credit/debit card, you’re too tempted to buy now and pay later. Statistically using a card caused families to spend 34% more. Give cash a try and see how much more conscious you’ll be about your spending habits.
2. Shop smarter.
1. Research the local sale items at your food store and make a shopping list of the essentials. Stick to the list, to minimize impulse buying. Buy the less expensive generic brand if one is offered.
2. Always monitor the food total at the check out line. A checker is susceptible to human error, like running an item through too many times or putting in the wrong produce item code, increasing the cost per pound.  
3. Shop for the best insurance rate (ok, this one is near and dear to my heart). Combine your auto and home policies to get multi-policy discounts. If you currently have a low deductible consider bumping it to the next level saving you up to 30 percent on your policy. If you’ve put the motorcycle, watercraft, or RV away for the winter, consider lowering your coverage.
4. Shop the clearance rack for clothes and stick to a classic style for work. It never goes away and is acceptable in all business environments. It’s also easier to accessorize, mix and match when you’re working with solid colors.
5. Shop at thrift stores. You’ll be amazed at what you find at such great prices. Especially for kids who outgrow their shoes and clothes each year. Should also be your first stop for sports gear.
   

3. Get the family involved. Preparing for the worst is a collaborative effort. Family members need each other’s support to get through the tough times. So, get everyone on the same page about tightening expenses.
1. Unplug unused appliances around the house
2. Turn off the lights when a room is not in use
3. Take quick showers and don’t let the water run for long periods of time
4. Consider a family talk plan that has less minutes and is less expensive
5. Teens can also earn their own extra income by babysitting, shoveling snow, mowing lawns, having a paper route or giving private band/orchestra lessons to middle or high school students

Here we are again, another winter season upon us and the accidents are starting to pile up, literally. In the insurance business this is also the time of year we see an increase in claims.

I was on the phone with a friend the other day and all he could say every 5 minutes while driving home was "wow, another one!?". Yes, another car in a ditch, overturned vehicle or patrol car with flashing lights on the side of the freeway. So, let's try to be safe.

7 Tips for Winter Driving

1. Slow down and don't rush. Be sure to give yourself extra time to get to your destination. It's better you make it there, than not. This also means, drive slower on the roads which will give you enough time to react to sudden changes or stops.
2. Eliminate distractions. If you have passengers, make sure they're buckled and minimize the amount of talking you do as the driver. If you have pets, make sure they're secure in a cage. Drinking soda, coffee or eating is another distraction. Be sure these are done beforehand, your full attention is important while you drive.
3. Prepare your vehicle. Make sure your car is ready for the winter cold. Check the fluid levels, tires and wiper blades. In the mornings, while your car is warming up - check your mirrors, scrape off snow and make sure your lights work properly. This is also the time to pop in the CD you want, turn to the radio station you like or enter the destination address on your GPS device - all things that should be done before your drive.
4. Check the weather and road conditions. You can look online with a local TV station or call 1-800-ROADWIS. Decide if it's worth the risk. If you must drive, know your alternate routes if the primary one is not the best.
5. Carry a cell phone. Be sure you can call for help if you need it. Having a cell phone should actually be something you do all year round. You just never know when you're going to need it. Nowadays, cell phones also come with a digital camera. This is handy, since you should take photos, if involved in an accident.
   
6. Fill your gas tank. A 5-minute drive can easily turn into a 30-minute commute with more accidents on the road, lane closures and slow driving. So, be sure you have plenty of gas in the car. If you do get stranded because of an empty tank, check your insurance policy for roadside assistance coverage. Typically, the service is free, the only thing you would pay for is the cost of gas.
7. Tell someone where you're going. Especially, if you are traveling long distance. If you have friends or family who will be expecting you, let them know when you plan to arrive and on what route you will be taking. Tell someone even if it's a trip in-town, that way help can arrive quicker if you need it.