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Bulbs and Beyond: Fall Planting for Spring Production

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Bulbs and Beyond: Fall Planting for Spring Production


Fall is one of the most magical times in the garden. The morning air is cool and crisp, the weeds and pests are beginning to dwindle, and we’re finally enjoying harvests from our long season crops. I love spending autumn days in the garden so much that I often plant almost as much in the fall as in the spring. Thankfully, there are some excellent fall crops I can sneak in this time of year that provide a spring abundance.

What Crops Can I Plant This Fall?

The fall planting list is surprisingly long! If you’re willing to put in the work, there are several flowers, herbs, and vegetables that can all be fall-planted for incredible spring flowers and harvests. 

Fall-Planted Flowers

Fall planting brings spring blooms! If you want early flowers, fall planting is a must. There are many different types of fall-planted flowers, so I divided them into two categories: those you plant from bulbs, corms, tubers, or roots, and those you start from seed. Flowers you can start from seed are often those varieties with a tendency to self-seed that would naturally drop seed each fall and spread. 

Bulbs, Corms, Tubers, & Roots

  • Anemones (Anemone spp.)
  • Checkered Lily (Fritillaria meleagris)
  • Crocus (Iridaceae spp.)
  • Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
  • Dutch Iris (Iris × hollandica)
  • German Iris (Iris × germanica)
  • Hyacinth (Hyacinthus spp.)
  • Oriental Lilies (Lilium orientalis)
  • Ornamental Alliums (Allium spp.)
  • Peonies (Paeonia officinalis)
  • Snowdrop (Galanthus spp.)
  • Tulips (Tulipa spp.)

Seeds

  • Bachelor’s Buttons (Centaurea cyanus)
  • Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa)
  • Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
  • Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
  • Dara (Daucus carota)
  • Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)
  • Hollyhocks (Alcea rosea)
  • Johnny Jump-Ups (Viola spp.)
  • Larkspur (Delphinium spp.)
  • Rudbeckia (Rudbeckia spp.)
  • Snapdragons (Antirrhinum spp.)
  • Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)

Fall-Planted Herbs 

While flower bulbs often seem to be the focus for fall, there are a number of cold-tolerant or perennial herbs you can start this autumn. 

  • Chives
  • Cilantro
  • Feverfew
  • Mint
  • Parsley
  • Thyme
Nancy Malone Wheat Purple Collards
Nancy Malone Wheat Purple Collards

Fall-Planted Vegetables

Hardy vegetables are one of my favorite fall crops. Overwintered vegetables will often start putting on good growth during occasional warm February and March days when we start getting more daylight. They’re ready to harvest long before any indoor seed or spring-started crop ever will be! I’ve divided the vegetables into groups so it’s easier to find the type of crops you’re interested in.

Alliums

  • Bulb Onions
  • Garlic
  • Perennial Onions
  • Shallots

Brassicas

  • Broccoli
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower

Beans

Greens

  • Arugula
  • Claytonia
  • Collards
  • Kale
  • Lettuce
  • Mustard Greens
  • Spinach
  • Swiss Chard

Roots

  • Beets
  • Carrots
  • Daikon Radishes
  • Rutabagas
  • Potatoes
  • Turnips

When Can I Plant These Fall Crops?

The answer to this question depends on both the crop and your location. Those in New England will need to plant much earlier than those in the Deep South, but it also depends on what you’re growing.

For example, you should only plant tulips when soil temperatures have cooled. For those in northern areas, you may be able to put them in as early as September, but waiting until as late as December may be preferable for those in the south. 

Learning about your hardiness zone and using a garden planner app may help you make the best decisions for planting dates. 

Do These Fall Crops Need Protection?

Again, this depends on the crop and location. In warm, southern climates, all of these crops will need less protection than they do in northern zones. In fact, those in the deep south may have to continue weeding and watering as usual into the fall months. 

However, in many areas, these crops, particularly the fall vegetables, benefit from some sort of protection. For root crops and alliums, this may mean a thick layer of straw or hay mulch around the base of the plant to provide some insulation. For greens and herbs, planting them in a hoop house or cold frame or installing low tunnels with wires and clear plastic is ideal. 

Most of the flower bulbs, corms, roots, and tubers do best when they receive a layer of mulch after planting, but they should come with instructions. On the other hand, the flower seeds are usually fine without protection. Some seeds, like echinacea, actually require a period of cold and moisture to germinate properly.

 

Getting good production during the winter months can be challenging, even in the south. Shorter days mean less plant growth, even when the weather is warm. That said, you may still want to consider some of these fall crops. When sown in fall, these flowers, herbs, and vegetables will provide extra-early spring production. Get a jump on 2025 with these fantastic fall-planted crops.




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“Our single-use USB temperature data logger attracted significant interest”

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“Our single-use USB temperature data logger attracted significant interest”


At the Asia Fruit Logistica 2024, Tzone Digital Technology Co., Ltd. (Tzone) showcased its USB and wireless temperature and humidity data loggers, receiving positive feedback from both new and returning customers.

Mr. Liao, Tzone’s director, remarked, “We participate in Asia Fruit Logistica nearly every year. This year, we showcased several of our best-selling products and offered free samples to customers. Our TempU02 single-use USB temperature data logger, in particular, garnered significant interest, attracting inquiries from customers in Europe, America, Southeast Asia, and beyond.”

“In recent months, the ongoing drop in ocean freight rates, coupled with the upcoming production season in the southern hemisphere, is expected to stimulate the fruit and vegetable trade. As the cold chain supply monitoring market continues to grow, temperature and humidity data loggers have become increasingly critical. The TempU02, designed specifically for fresh food logistics, combines a fine design with a waterproof structure, making it easy to use. It offers a temperature monitoring range from -30°C to 60°C and recording options of 30, 60, or 90 days. Upon delivery, users can access the PDF data report instantly without any software installation, ensuring data integrity and authenticity. This logger reduces both time and training costs, blending the convenience of traditional paper recorders with the real-time performance of wireless thermometers, delivering an outstanding user experience.”

Despite some weather disruptions on the third day of the exhibition, which affected scheduled customer meetings, Mr. Liao expressed satisfaction with the overall outcome, stating, “We received numerous inquiries and were pleased with the overall experience at Asia Fruit Logistica.” Tzone will next participate in the Global Produce & Floral Show from October 17 to 19, at booth BC903. This time, Tzone will highlight its TT19SI wireless temperature and humidity data logger. This 4G-enabled device not only records temperature and humidity but also features light sensing, vibration detection, and location monitoring, making it suitable for air, sea, and land transportation. Customers can choose products based on transport duration to ensure that fresh fruits and vegetables remain at optimal temperatures throughout the distribution process.”

Tzone continues to expand its product portfolio. In addition to the TempU and TT series, Tzone offers a range of devices, including USB temperature and humidity loggers, Bluetooth loggers, and wireless LoRa temperature and humidity sensors and gateways, catering to a wide variety of customer needs. Tzone’s marketing department added, “With 18 years of experience in manufacturing temperature and humidity devices, we own our factories, R&D, and production departments, allowing us to maintain strict quality control, manage delivery schedules, and provide comprehensive pre- and post-sales support.”

More information:
Tzone Digital Technology Co., Ltd.
Liko xiao
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.tzonedigital.com
Tel: +86 152 2096 3858

On a Mountain With God by Marilyn Ehle

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“The Lord said to Moses, “Come up to me on the mountains and stay here… and the Lord called to Moses…” Exodus 24:12-17

Do you ever get jealous of those who claim to have an “experience” with God?

Do you perhaps resent people who speak about the intimacy of their relationship with God? Do you wonder about the correctness of calling God “Daddy” or “Abba”?

I think we all long for precious moments of intimacy with God, perhaps most often when the busyness of life clutches at us. Wouldn’t it be nice to walk with God in Eden’s glades and hear God calling in the stillness? Or maybe we’re more practical: would someone please pay for a three-day silent retreat for me?!

Moses has the unique and life altering experience of being alone with God on a mountain. But as I read Exodus 24, three things about his “retreat” stand out.

First, God says, Come up to me on the mountain. It takes time and effort for me to “come up” to God. It means leaving the valley of the mundane and ordinary. It means leaving others—and the otherness of regular life, a disciplined effort to leave the people and demands that I think so important.

Second, God said, …stay here… Moses, stay with me here on the mountain. Catch your breath after the climb. I have something important to say to you but you must get your mind in God gear. Stop thinking about the past, even the good past when I met your needs, when I parted a sea, poured water from a rock, sent fresh bread every day in the desert. I have new news for you.” Staying with God means stop squirming, stop thinking about the list of things to do. Just staying with God.

Third, after six days of staying, …the Lord called to Moses… After the climb and the staying, God revealed himself in unimaginable glory and spoke the message that would define the Jews and lead them to the Promised land. Often I want the glory—maybe angels descending on a cloud, sweet melodies and palpable spiritual quivering—rather than God’s voice that says “go, do, tell.”

Climbing the mountains of daily life, staying with God long enough to hear his voice:  it’s practicing these disciplines of the Christian life that lays the groundwork for intimacy with my Abba Father.

Father, thank you for faithfully to calling me to yourself. Help me take the time and effort to stay long enough to hear your voice.

By Marilyn Ehle
used by permission

Further Reading

Intimacy with God –  by Sylvia Gunter

“First Love” Intimacy – by Allan Mitchell

Father’s Love Letter – An Intimate Message from God



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Biggest law firm cyber attacks and trends

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To say that law firm cyber attacks are now more common is a massive understatement. 

As the American Bar Association (ABA) notes: 

“Cybersecurity is a nemesis for law firms these days. We can’t seem to go a single day without hearing about some sort of security event such as a ransomware attack, data breach, newly discovered vulnerability, or some misuse of our information.”

There is no shortage of recent examples. Law firm Allen & Overy suffered a ransomware attack in November 2023 when hacking group LockBit threatened to publish data stolen from the firm’s files. Or there’s the ransomware group that took credit for accessing data at law firms Kirkland & Ellis, K&L Gates, and Proskauer Rose by exploiting a vulnerability in the file transfer software MOVEit. Even the ABA experienced a data breach when hackers accessed its network in March 2023 and took old usernames and passwords.

The takeaway is that law firm cyber attacks are everywhere, and no organization is immune to them. That’s why cybersecurity needs to be top-of-mind for everyone in the legal industry. 

Wondering what cybersecurity issues your firm should be aware of? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s what you need to know about key law firm cyber attacks and cybersecurity trends.

The importance of cybersecurity for law firms

In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is essential for every business. Because, if the door is left open, cybercriminals will let themselves in.

Law firms are particularly susceptible to being targeted by hackers. That’s because of the gold mine of confidential information that lawyers store. With details on trade secrets, medical records, intellectual property, and all kinds of information and secrets that individuals would rather not have exposed, a hacker is drawn to a lawyer’s hard drive like a moth to a flame.

According to a 2023 survey by the ABA, 29% of law firms said they had experienced a security breach, while 19% reported not knowing if one had occurred. 

And there’s a lot at risk for law firms that ignore cybersecurity. After all, lawyers have regulatory and ethical obligations to protect their clients’ information. 

Under the ABA Rule 1.6 Confidentiality of Information, attorneys must make reasonable efforts to detect breaches and avoid client data loss. Failing to do so can result in an ethical violation under the ABA’s Formal Opinion 483 and land a firm in court facing a costly lawsuit for failing to protect client data.

Earlier this year, law firm Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe agreed to pay $8 million to settle class action claims stemming from a March 2023 data breach when cybercriminals accessed the names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of more than 600,000 individuals from files stored by the law firm. The hackers also accessed data on media treatments, diagnoses, and insurance claims details. In the class action lawsuits that followed the cyber attack, Orrick was accused of failing to inform victims about the breach until months after the incident. 

As proof that any firm can be the target of a cyber attack it’s worth noting one of Orrick’s areas of expertise is providing legal counsel to companies that have experienced a cyber incident, including how to notify authorities and the affected individuals.

Houser LLP, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner, Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft, Smith Gambrell & Russell, and smaller firms Cohen Cleary and Spear Wilderman have also faced lawsuits over claims of inadequately protecting client data.

The ever-growing list of firms facing lawsuits alleging failure to protect client data proves the need for all firms to take cybersecurity seriously.

Common law firm cyber attacks

The main attack vectors used to target law firms include phishing schemes, ransomware, insider and third-party attacks, and DDoS attacks. 

Here’s a detailed look at each cyber threat:

1. Phishing attacks

Phishing attacks have become one of the most common forms of cyber attacks. While phishing schemes can take various forms, such as a compromised attachment that someone downloads, a text message with a link to a fraudulent website, or a seemingly legitimate email that asks for important credentials, the end goal is always the same: to get the user to provide valuable information.

A common phishing scheme used to target lawyers involves cybercriminals impersonating clients and requesting wire transfers.

2. Ransomware

With ransomware attacks, law firms are denied access to their files until a ransom is paid. 

How common are ransomware attacks? Cybercriminals can now subscribe to “ransomware-as-a-service” (RaaS) providers, which allows malware developers to sell pre-developed ransomware to other threat actors in exchange for a percentage of successful ransom payments. 

Cybercriminals that use ransomware target organizations with sensitive data that is valuable to others and can be exploited. Every lawyer knows how important their client files are, and, unfortunately, so do ransomware deployers. 

3. Insider and third-party attacks

Did you know that it’s not only your systems and practices that could put your firm at risk but also those of external vendors? Third-party exposure has become more common, with 29% of all data breaches in 2023 being caused by a third-party attack.

An insider cyber attack is when an individual inside an organization is the cause of a cyber incident, whether intentional or not. An example of an unintentional insider attack would be if an employee at your firm fell for a phishing scam or their personal device with sensitive client information was hacked. On the other hand, an intentional insider attack would be if an employee deliberately jeopardized or stole confidential client information.

4. DDoS attacks

With a DDoS (distributed denial of service) attack, hackers don’t breach a network in the same way as other cyber incidents. Instead, they overwhelm a network or server with so much fake traffic that your system can’t process things quickly enough. This prevents the system from allowing genuine user requests. The result can be crippling to business operations.

If not noticed and remedied quickly, a DDoS attack could cause existing clients to question your capabilities and professionalism and see your firm lose business from potential clients.

Current and emerging cybersecurity trends in the legal sector

If a law firm’s expertise isn’t in the cyber realm, why should they care about understanding cybersecurity happenings? Because, as the ABA states, “you can’t fix it if you don’t know it’s broken.” 

Here’s a look at some current and emerging cybersecurity trends impacting the legal sector.

1. Artificial intelligence 

Whether or not your firm uses generative artificial intelligence (AI), you’ve undoubtedly heard about the opportunities AI offers law firms. AI tools can be used to review documents, improve research and document quality control, enhance client relations, and detect potential risks earlier, among other offerings. It’s estimated that 44% of legal work could be automated with AI.

But there’s a double-edged sword with AI. Not only is AI bringing opportunities for law firms, but it’s also helping cybercriminals up their game by creating realistic content for elaborate attacks. Consider including AI detectors when investing in AI tools to benefit your firm. 

2. Deepfakes

OK, yes, this is a form of AI, but the problem with deepfakes is becoming so prevalent that it warrants being singled out.

Deepfakes are created with AI to produce manipulated images, videos, or audio recordings of real individuals doing or saying something that is unreal. According to a report by KPMG, the growing accessibility of AI “enables virtually anyone to create highly realistic fake content,” with the number of deepfake videos available online increasing by a staggering 900% annually. 

A prime example of what deepfakes can do involves a Hong Kong finance worker who joined a video call where every other participant, including the company’s CFO, was a deepfake. The employee was tricked into wiring $25 million to cybercriminals.

Learning how to spot deepfakes (there are some Continuing Legal Education training courses on deepfakes), as well as using a unique code word to verify clients in communications, can help combat this cyber threat. 

3. Cybersecurity knowledge gap

Employees can be a law firm’s greatest defense against and greatest risk for cyber attacks. That’s why a growing trend in cybersecurity is an emphasis on training staff.

The ABA 2022 TechReport found that only 32% of solo attorneys and 64% of firms with two to nine lawyers have cybersecurity training. Cybersecurity awareness training is crucial to the success of any law firm and should be conducted at least once a year (or more if the time and budget allow). 

4. Increase in ransomware attacks

Unfortunately, the ransomware attack surge is far from over. Cyber experts predict that thanks to RaaS, ransomware attacks will become more common and substantially easier for fraudsters to launch. It’s estimated that ransomware will cost victims more than $265 billion annually by 2031. As a result, ransomware attack prevention and recovery plans should be part of every law firm’s cyber defense toolkit. 

Cybersecurity best practices for law firms 

That’s a lot of cyber doom and gloom we’ve covered. And we don’t blame you if you’re feeling overwhelmed about what’s to come with cyber risks. While there is no surefire way to eliminate the risk of a cyber incident (if only!), the good news is that there are many measures your firm can take to protect against attacks.

  • Encryption: Encrypt anything and everything. Encryption is a cost-effective way for law firms to safeguard data from threat actors.
  • Enhance password security: Unique and strong passwords that are regularly changed are the first line of defense against law firm cyber attacks. Just make sure the passwords aren’t stored anywhere digitally or physically that others can access.
  • Use multi-factor authentication: Multi-factor authentication could have helped avoid countless data breaches in recent years. Make using it a requirement at your firm, along with strong passwords.
  • Regularly review permissions: Not everyone at your firm needs access to all files. Instead, determine the minimum level of access each employee needs. Permissions should be reviewed and re-evaluated regularly. 
  • Avoid data transfers: Keeping sensitive data on personal devices significantly increases cyber attack vulnerability. Avoid transferring data between business and personal devices.
  • Create an incident response plan: A cyber incident response plan outlines how your firm will handle all stages of an attack, from detection and containment to remediation and recovery.
  • Get insured: Having the right insurance coverage is vital for combating law firm cyber attacks. Not having cyber insurance could put your firm’s longevity at risk due to the financial burden that comes in the wake of any cyber incident. (The global average data breach cost is now $4.88 million.) At Embroker, we have tailored insurance solutions that can offer protection in minutes after applying.

No matter the size or location of your law practice or your area of specialization, every firm faces the risk of cyber threats. That’s why it’s crucial to make cybersecurity a priority by staying informed about cyber trends and having plans to mitigate and respond to law firm cyber attacks. Being proactive with cybersecurity will help safeguard your firm’s future. Just be sure to keep the words from the ABA in mind: you can’t fix it if you don’t know it’s broken.

A Prayer for Helping When You Are Able – Your Daily Prayer – September 16

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A Prayer for Helping When You Are Able – Your Daily Prayer – September 16


A Prayer for Helping When You Are Able
By Laura Bailey

Bible Reading
“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27 NIV

Listen or Read Below:

I checked the sign-up sheets each week, hoping that the blank lines would eventually fill up and I would be “off the hook.” Our church recently stepped in to help out with the soup kitchen on Sundays, serving hot meals to those in need in our area. Usually, I would be all for volunteering my and my family’s time to serve others. Caring for others in our community, showing the love of Jesus, sharing the Good News, and setting an example for my girls is not only something I feel called to but also desire to do. 

But I was tired… Our last few months were busy, mostly with good and godly things. Our family held doors and greeted visitors on Sunday mornings. We passed out treat bags and invited new neighbors to the church on the weekends. We volunteered to set up, serve, and clean up for various church events. As a women’s leader, I poured hours into selecting, studying, and teaching Bible studies, planning fellowship events, and training new church leaders. 

My intentions are not to boast or brag. We aren’t unique in our service; many others in our church family have served in multiple ministries inside and outside the church walls. I am simply sharing why, on this particular occasion, I chose to leave my name off the sign-up sheet. But as the slots remained empty, the head of the kitchen commitment announced at the end of service, sharing about the soup kitchen ministry and asking people to strongly consider signing up. I couldn’t help but feel that familiar prick in my heart. I began a tug-of-war with the Holy Spirit’s work. 

  • “I’ve served my time, it’s someone else’s turn.”
  • “I need a break. I am tired. I’ll sign up next time around.”
  • “ I don’t know how to cook for a big group of people. I’ll let those who are more gifted in this area serve.”

I am not suggesting the Lord requires or Scripture encourages us to sign up for every opportunity to minister to others. We are limited in our time and abilities, so we must lean into the Holy Spirit’s prompting in our individual lives. While our purpose is all the same: to know God and make Him known, our way is unique. However, I knew I was directly opposed to our key verse in Proverbs 3:37, “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due when it is in your power to act.”  

I had no physical limitation prohibiting me from standing for two hours to serve meals. There were no other obligations or expectations of my time for the days in question. And at the heart of it all, there’s no Christian service magic quota. The “I’ve served my time”  or “someone else’s turn”  type of thinking has no place in the believer’s life.

There will be times when we sincerely cannot serve, but if we are able, let us remember the words of Jesus himself, “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). When opportunities arise, and it is in our purview to help, let us be people who look at serving others as a privilege and not a penalty for following Christ.

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your son, Jesus, as the ultimate example of service. He experienced weariness, the feeling of being physically and emotionally exhausted, yet He still cared for the needs of others. Let us embrace the opportunities presented to us to show the love of Christ and share the gospel message. When we are weak, grant us strength and help us discern where to invest our time and energy.
In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/kieferpix

Laura Bailey headshotLaura Bailey is a Bible teacher who challenges and encourages women to dive deep in the Scriptures, shift from an earthly to an eternal mindset, and filter life through the lens of God’s Word. She is the author of Beyond the Noise, and loves any opportunity to speak and teach women of all ages. She is a wife and momma to three young girls. Connect with her on her website,  www.LauraRBailey.com, Facebook and Instagram.

Related Resource: Remember God’s Enduring Love for You in this Guided Meditation on Psalm 100!

This guided Christian meditation from Psalm 100 will help you experience and praise God for his unending love for you. Become aware of God’s presence with you, and praise God for his loyal and enduring love from the beginning of time and into the future. Listen to every episode of the So Much More Podcast on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Now that you’ve prayed, are you in need of someone to pray for YOU? Click the button below!





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I Pay My Mortgage Around the 15th of Every Month

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I Pay My Mortgage Around the 15th of Every Month


Lately, savings accounts have been paying a pretty solid return. Companies like Capital One and Discover have been offering over 4% APY.

It’s not necessarily free money, given the high rate of inflation, but it’s been one way to keep your dollars from eroding in value versus just putting them in a bank account earning a measly 0.01%.

When savings rates began to rise a few years ago, I started to make my mortgage payments later in the month.

The logic was that I could earn more interest on my money if I kept more of it in a savings account for a longer amount of time.

While maybe not a massive amount of money, still more money.

You Don’t Get Any Savings by Paying on the 1st of the Month

First a quick overview. Mortgage payments are typically due on the first of the month, but not actually late until 15 days later.

In other words, most loan servicers will give you a grace period to pay any time between the first of the month and the 15th without penalty.

So while “technically due” on the first, it’s not actually late until the 16th. I never looked into why they do this, but this tends to be the universal rule (always check with your bank/servicer to be sure!).

And because most mortgages in the United States are simple interest and calculated monthly, it doesn’t matter when you pay in terms of interest charges.

If you pay on the first every month, you won’t save money on mortgage interest versus paying on the fifth or the 15th.

The amount of interest due is already determined and you’re simply making a payment for the prior month’s interest.

In short, there is no benefit to paying early in the month vs. mid-month. This isn’t the case for HELOCs, which are calculated daily.

You Could Get Savings by Paying Mid-Month

While you won’t see any interest savings by making mortgage payments early in the month, you could see savings if you wait until closer to mid-month.

As noted, many savings account pay 4% or more at the moment.

If your mortgage payment is say $3,000 per month, you could arguably keep that money in your high-yield account until the 13th.

That would give you another couple weeks of earnings at whatever the yield is, say 4%. And that would mean a higher interest payout at the end of the month in your savings account.

While it might not be a ton of money, it can add up, especially if you have larger mortgage payments and/or multiple payments to make.

The interest will also compound over time and make it even more valuable the longer you do this.

This is why I often pay my mortgage closer to the 15th of the month. They say every little bit helps.

Pay Other High-Rate Debt Early in the Month Instead

What if you carry other, higher-interest rate debt that accrues interest daily, such as a credit card?

Many Americans have revolving credit card debt that isn’t paid off in full each month. As a result, interest accrues every day on the outstanding balance.

Obviously, you should strive to pay the balance in full by the due date each month so this isn’t the case and you get a “grace period.”

But if this isn’t feasible, you could argue to pay as much toward that balance (or balances) as early as possible to reduce the interest expense.

Then just be sure to pay the mortgage before the due date.

In this scenario, you’re essentially allocating money toward the debt that is actually costing you more money each day.

The mortgage interest due is the same whether paid on the first or 15th, so there’s no advantage to paying it sooner.

The one caveat here is to make sure your payment clears on time. That’s why I usually pay on the 12th or 13th to ensure there isn’t a delay or something.

If there is, you could be charged a sizable late fee. But note that mortgages aren’t considered delinquent until 30 days past the due date, at which point it could be communicated to the credit bureaus.

The takeaway here might be to remember that there’s no benefit to paying a mortgage early in the month, but there could be a big benefit to paying other debt early, like a credit card or HELOC.

However, you can still pay off your mortgage early if you choose, but that involves making additional payments to the principal balance, beyond the regular payment due.

And doing so early on in the loan term can actually save you more.

(photo: Vanessa)

Colin Robertson
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Spiritual Benefits of Fatherly Love – Anothen

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In honor of Father-figures Day, this blog discusses important qualities and impacts of good fathering.

In the Bible, God’s symbolic use of human fatherhood conveys character traits that help us relate to various aspects of God and help men to be great fathers.

Coaching through Adversities

To mature, we all must face adversities and overcome our challenges. Fathers play a special role in helping their children overcome their fears and limitations.

“The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” [1 Corinthians 10:13]

Adversity, problems, and temptations are common realities of life. Like God, good fathers wisely instruct their children to avoid these pitfalls of life (where possible) and coach them through those which must be experienced. Just as God cares for us as we navigate challenges, fathers are called to do the same. Allowing children to face their challenges, is not unloving. Good fathers protect their children from what they cannot handle and coach them through the challenges which they are able to face and surmount.

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” [Proverbs 22:6]

With a good fathers coaching, the child will build character, values, and disciplines that will benefit them for life. These values cause virtuous cycles that the child can demonstrate for themselves. When the fathers coaching and instruction are adhered to, it not only builds the child’s endurance and maturity, but it also deepens the mutual love, trust, and respect between father and child.

“And you saw how the LORD your God cared for you all along the way as you traveled through the wilderness, just as a father cares for his child. Now He has brought you to this place.” [Deuteronomy 1:31]

As God provides us with love, direction, and guidance into good destinations, similarly, fathers provide the same as they maintain vision for their children’s future.

Giving Correction

“I will be his father, and he will be My son. When he does wrong, I’ll see that he is corrected, just as children are corrected by their parents.” [2 Samuel 7:14]

Scripture teaches that correction is a form of kindness and instills self-control. Children who misbehave without being corrected can become miserable adults from lacking self-control. Just as fathers correct their children’s misbehavior, God corrects the misbehaviors of those He fathers.

Demonstrating Kindness & Respectfulness

Children learn kindness and respectfulness by witnessing their parents relationships. [See Ephesians 5:25; Colossians 3:19]

“As a father is kind to his children, so the LORD is kind to those who honor him.” [Psalm 103:13]

Kindness and respectfulness are reciprocal in healthy relationships. Fathers teach their children why and how to treat others kindly and respectfully.

Good Fathering Models Gods Love

“11 My child, don’t reject the LORD’s discipline, and don’t be upset when He corrects you. 12 For the LORD corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights in.” [Proverbs 3:11,12]

Learning to love ourselves begins in our childhood. A father’s wisdom and love can prevent their children from developing abusive patterns and consequences later in life:

“A single reprimand does more for a discerning person than a hundred punishments for a fool.” [Proverbs 17:10]

“Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life.” [Proverbs 19:20]

Good Fathering instills Dignity in Children

“Then our sons will be like plants nurtured in their youth, our daughters, like strong corner pillars skillfully crafted in a palace.” [Psalm 144:12]

Nothing truly valuable in life requires violating good character to obtain it. Nurturing fathers guide their children in maintaining good character and dignity while they navigate failures and successes; especially when facing rejection and opposition from others.

“Jesus told his disciples, “Situations that cause people to lose their faith are certain to arise. But how horrible it will be for the person who causes someone to stumble from his faith!“ [Luke 17:1]

Scripture records and teaches the proper execution of every value and virtue known to humanity and warns against every deficiency that causes failure and hurt. Those values are goals or ideals that influence our thinking. Virtues are our behaviors that demonstrate having high ethical or moral standards. When a father teaches their children values and virtues, they give them the keys to godly character. This prevents the child from developing a self-centered, inconsiderate mindset that deceives and takes advantage of others for their own benefit.

“and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds,” [Hebrews 10:24]

Good father’s teach their children to be considerate, encouraging, and inspiring.

Good Fathering develops rewarding Self-Satisfaction

“Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” [Galatians 6:4]

Comparing ourselves to others cannot produce the satisfaction of knowing our self-worth. Fathers help their children learn good standards, values, and critical thinking skills to govern themselves. Fathers teach children how to improve their performance without self-assessment leading to self-condemnation. As a result, children become adults who do not seek validation from others, nor compare themselves to others to feel confident.

Good Fathering uses Discipline for Instruction not Punishment:

“5 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as His children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the LORD’s discipline, and don’t give up when He corrects you. 6 For the LORD disciplines those He loves, and He chastens each one He accepts as his child. 7 As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as His own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as He does all of His children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really His children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? 10 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in His holiness. 11 No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” [Hebrews12:5-11]

Godly correction and discipline produce the mindset and character necessary for a spiritually abundant and peaceful life. Good fathers model these qualities for their children:

“Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law.” [Romans 13:10]

Fathers do more than model good behaviors. The structure they provide enables future generations to conduct successful relationships with God, self, and others.

We’re thankful for all the father-figures who helped us go farther in life!

There’s nothing ‘toxic’ about the benefits of Fatherly Love!

Anothen 👔



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Resist Sexual Temptation: 100 Bible Verses

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If you need to resist sexual temptation, turn to God’s Word for the answers you seek.

The post Resist Sexual Temptation: 100 Bible Verses appeared first on Make No Provision.



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Keller Williams settles some of the lawsuits tied to its profit-sharing program

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Keller Williams‘ legal worries just got a little lighter. On Friday, the real estate franchisee and the plaintiffs’ counsel in the Mcfarlane suit reached a settlement agreement for the lawsuit related to the firm’s recently abandoned changes to its profit-sharing program.

In an email, Keller Williams confirmed that this agreement settles all of the breach-of-contract lawsuits filed against it by attorneys at the law firm of Humphrey, Farrington & McClain PC. These include cases filed by plaintiffs and former KW agents Eric Mendoza, Jerri Moulder, Jana and Dennis Caudill, Penny Alper, Paul Davis, Kevin Ortiz and Edward Fordyce.

According to the court docket entry, the parties have until mid-October to file the proposed draft of the settlement agreement

In a statement emailed to HousingWire, Keller Williams spokesperson Darryl Frost said the matters were “amicably resolved and settled.”

The Mcfarlane suit, which was filed in early May by James Mcfarlane — who was brokered with Keller Williams from 2004 to 2018 — is just one of more than a dozen lawsuits filed by former KW agents.

The suits began piling up after the firm announced in August 2023 that it was cutting its profit-share distribution for vested “former” KW agents — those who joined the company before April 1, 2020, and left for another brokerage — from 100% to 5%. Prior to this change, vested “former” agents benefited from a 100% profit-share distribution even after their departure. 

The changes had been slated to go into effect in July 2024. But in May, the brokerage announced that its International Association Leadership Council (IALC) had made the decision to rescind the changes.

Agents join the profit-sharing program by designating a sponsor when they join a market center. That sponsor then becomes part of the agent’s “profit share tree.”

Once the agent has begun contributing to the market center’s business by closing transactions, they “receive a portion of the market center’s profits, which will be attributed to the associates in their tree.” Keller Williams also allows associated to designate a beneficiary to receive their profit-share distributions upon their death.

In July, the firm announced that its market centers have shared more than $2 billion in profits with affiliated agents though its profit-sharing program, which was first established in 1987. From the start of 2023 through mid-2024 alone, Keller Williams said that its market centers have awarded more than $148 million in profits to associates.

Alan Shearer doubles down on Marcus Rashford criticism despite his goal in win vs. Southampton – Man United News And Transfer News

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Alan Shearer doubles down on Marcus Rashford criticism despite his goal in win vs. Southampton – Man United News And Transfer News



Premier League and Newcastle legend Alan Shearer has refused to back down from his criticism of Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford despite his goal over the weekend vs. Southampton.

Rashford grabbed United’s second of the match at St Mary’s, as Erik ten Hag’s men cruised to a 3-0 victory. It was his first goal since March.

Earlier in the campaign, Shearer slammed Rashford for his lethargic and uninspiring performance during a defeat against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Shearer’s comments prompted Erik ten Hag to launch a passionate defence of his player as he branded Sheaer’s remarks as “stupid.”

Despite this, Shearer once again hit out at Rashford as the Red Devils slipped to a humiliating 3-0 loss at the hands of bitter rivals Liverpool just before the international break. Shearer even claimed that he doesn’t see Rashford reviving his England career.

Against Southampton, the Carrington academy graduate certainly produced a performance that silenced his critics but it seems that it wasn’t enough for Shearer.

A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Rashford believes he has been subjected to too much criticism and even bullying from a section of former footballers.

After the final whistle vs. Southampton, Ten Hag re-affirmed that there had been “too much negativity” around the 26-year-old.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker pointed out that Rashford has been upset by scrutiny he considers unfair.

In response, Shearer remarked, “I wouldn’t change anything that I’ve said.”

“He’s set his own very high standards, you know? He’s a very good player – he’s on a huge contract at Manchester United and he hasn’t played as well as he can do or has done in the past. And when that is the case – at a big football club when you’re a big name – you’re going to get criticised.”

“And he did – but he doesn’t get criticised for performances like [against Southampton], you know? When he’s tracking back and running, and taking players on and scoring his goal.”

“He looked a really good player. He’s now got to do that for the rest of the season.”

The 54-year-old added, “There’s a reason why he wasn’t in the England squad [for Euro 2024].”

“It’s not just the pundits who were critical of him. Other players have overtaken him from where he was a couple of years ago and there’s no doubt that there’s the talent in there, but that has to be a regular.”

“That has to be every single week, and not just against Southampton as it was. And then he won’t get criticised. Pretty simple isn’t it?”

United return to action on Tuesday when they face Barnsley in the third round of the EFL Cup.

Play for free to win the new United kit! We’re awarding a new prize every PL matchweek, courtesy of Goat Kits! To play, just (1) Join this week’s brand new PL Challenge league here with our league code puu1tk and enter your team. (2) Follow The Peoples Person on X and answer the tie breaker question. Full instructions and rules here.
You can also visit Goat Kits at goatkitstore.com and use discount code TPP30 to get 30% off your first purchase!





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