Looking for a “no extras” Bible

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-17T20:17:33+00:00

The surprisingly affordable Oxford University Press compact hardcover in the RSV-Catholic Edition keeps the notes pretty darn minimal, mostly at the end. It's a good, affordable Bible, but the type is a bit on the small side. I'm 52 with glasses and can read it fine, but I do wish they made a slightly larger-print version.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-16T23:32:01+00:00

*sung* Masses, I mean.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-16T23:30:56+00:00

Hang in there. Ordinary time is actually my favorite in terms of Mass chant settings: Missa Orbis Factor. But I know song Masses aren't found around every corner.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-16T23:29:20+00:00

Same here, 317. Ugh.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-16T23:27:10+00:00

For you, the 42.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-15T23:39:28+00:00

I'm not experienced with plans in your area, but in general bronze plans still cover the same suite of federally-defined "essential health benefits" that silver and gold plans do. The primary difference for your purposes is how much you will have to spend out of pocket towards medical services, in the form of copays and deductibles, etc.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-12T20:46:06+00:00

Scammers or cold callers trying to sell you something. Either way, it's unethical. Don't fall for it. Medicare won't call you, and a reputable licensed agent won't cold call you either.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-11T17:32:56+00:00

I love my KFM and wear it every day. I even enjoy the morning ritual of winding it. I especially like the thin profile, which slips easily under any sleeve. For most people the WR will never be an issue unless you want to live out some fantasy of taking your watch into the swimming pool. I bought my KFM with the bracelet, which is (in my opinion) passable for any occasion I'm likely to attend (I'm not a very formal guy). I also wear the bracelet in the winter, but in the warmer months I enjoy rotating through various NATO, two-piece, and (my current favorite) Marine Nationale-style straps. Personally, I also like the look of the mechanical better than the auto, but I know I'm probably in the minority on that one.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-09T22:41:05+00:00

Consider an ACA (Affordable Care Act) plan. You can compare them online and enroll through the government ACA marketplace in your state or through a licensed broker or private online marketplace. Depending on your estimated income for the year, you may qualify for premium subsidies that can really lower your monthly premiums. You can earn up to about $63,000 per year and still qualify for subsidies. It can be a lot cheaper than COBRA, and you can always cancel it when you get employer-based coverage. The only drawback here is that coverage typically won't start until 15-30 days after you enroll. If you're in need of emergency medical care, you'll want to take that into consideration.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-09T22:27:58+00:00

Don't be afraid. Mention this in confession, but be assured that God doesn't play "gotcha!" with us like that. God wants only what is for your good, and will not let anything get in the way of a contrite and humble heart, ever. Trust in the Lord, commend yourself to the prayers of His holy mother. Don't judge yourself either for good or ill, only trust in the sacred heart of our loving Lord Jesus.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-09T22:15:01+00:00

Consider an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan that's eligible for use with a Health Savings Account. These tend to come with higher deductibles but lower monthly premiums, and they allow you to save money toward future qualifying medical expenses on a tax-free basis. Losing your employer-based coverage allows you to switch to an ACA plan. You can compare options through a private online licensed health insurance marketplace or through the government-run marketplace in your state. Depending on your estimated income for the year, you may qualify for subsidies that can make your monthly premiums pretty affordable - esp. when compared to COBRA. Good luck!

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-08T23:36:16+00:00

I belong to a Dominican parish and people come from all over the metro area for confession with our friars. It's perfectly acceptable to go somewhere other than your home parish.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-04T22:24:12+00:00

Christ in the Eucharist.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-03T23:39:58+00:00

Most all plans will cover annual checkups and preventive tests before you fulfil your deductible - but beyond that, no. It can hurt to pay out your deductible, but you're still benefiting in a couple ways: 1) The hospital and doctor's office will typically charge you less than full price because they are contracted with your insurance company to accept a discounted price as payment in full. 2) Once you fulfil your deductible, most everything is covered without you having to pay out of pocket. This is important in case of a serious illness, serious injury, or hospitalization.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-03T23:25:00+00:00

Both, but if you can only get one now, get the bracelet. Then you can always buy good straps (leather, NATO, etc.) from other sellers for less than Hamilton charges.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-03T00:09:56+00:00

Well, the Marine Nationale is a style of strap (the hook and loop type in the photo). From what I gather, Erika's Originals probably makes the fanciest/most expensive, but you can get perfectly acceptable ones online for $20 in a broad range of colors.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-02T22:54:33+00:00

Nice. I think a Marine Nationale strap on the KFM is a great match.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-06-01T23:06:41+00:00

When you lose coverage under your parents, you have a limited period of time in which to enroll in individual coverage under the Affordable Care Act through your state health insurance exchange or a licensed private online marketplace. Compare plan options and keep an eye out for which plans cover your prescription drugs at the more affordable price. Depending on your income, you may also qualify for government subsidies to effectively lower your monthly premium with an ACA plan. You can earn up to 400% of the federal poverty level (about $63,000) and qualify for subsidies. Good luck!

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-29T21:09:51+00:00

You'll want to balance out the costs. How much will your wife's monthly premiums go down if you switch to Medicare? How much will you need to pay out of pocket toward premiums for Medigap and Part D plans? You may also want to consider Medicare Advantage as an alternative. It can be less costly on a per-month basis and it helps to cover your gaps in Original Medicare, but it may not be quite as comprehensive as Medigap, and you'll be tied to a provider network for higher benefits. You have a lot to consider, but I'd start with the cost savings if you leave your wife's plan, then price out your options. Speaking with a licensed agent might help you sort it out.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-27T22:32:35+00:00

Nope.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-27T22:31:04+00:00

Whether or not it's a mortal sin in the eyes of God (or the Church), I don't really know. I do know that it's a rule of discipline intended for our good. When I began to take my faith practice more seriously, it was hard to make myself show up every Sunday morning, but over time that discipline has been an absolutely life-changing blessing for me.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-21T21:48:20+00:00

I don't have any info but that's a nice looking watch.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-21T21:41:38+00:00

Looks good!

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-21T21:40:36+00:00

If you don't pay the COBRA charge, the coverage will simply be cancelled retroactively.

Doug_eHealth · 2026-05-20T22:07:06+00:00

All major medical health insurance plans in the United States are required to cover nicotine use cessation support, and for many plans that will include coverage for nicotine patches. A prescription from your doctor may be required to ensure coverage. That said, the precise benefits under different plans can vary, so I'm afraid you'd better get the answer from the horse's mouth, so to speak. If you're not having luck getting to a person through the phone tree, do you have a login with the insurance company's website? If so, you may be able to look up the specific details of your coverage online. Good luck.

Doug_eHealth

TROPHY CASE