When Your Insurance Agent Says “Wait Until Renewal” But You’re Paying for What You Don’t Need

I never thought I’d be writing a blog post about homeowners’ insurance. But here we are—and if you’ve ever felt stuck paying for coverage, you no longer need, I hope this helps you feel a little less alone.

Let me start with the obvious: I’m not an insurance expert. I’m a writer and a designer, and someone who believes in ethical, transparent business practices. So when I realized I was being charged for two types of coverage I no longer needed, I assumed a quick phone call would fix it.

Spoiler alert: It didn’t.

The $30 “Bully Dog” Fee After My Dog Passed Away

Three months ago, I lost my dog. It was heartbreaking. And while I was still grieving, I noticed something on my homeowner’s insurance bill: a $30 monthly charge for pet liability coverage labeled “Bully Dog.”

I no longer have a dog. I called my insurance agent and asked to remove the fee. His response?
“We’ll take care of it at the end of the year when your policy renews.”

Wait… what?

I wasn’t asking to cancel my entire policy. Just one rider. One optional add-on for a pet who’s no longer alive. But apparently, that wasn’t enough to justify a mid-year change.

And here’s something else to know: Some insurers may ask for proof that your pet has passed away. That could be a vet’s note, a receipt from cremation services, or even a written statement from you. It’s not always required, but having it ready can help avoid delays or pushback. 

Identity Theft Coverage I Don’t Use

Then I looked closer and saw another $20 charge for identity theft protection. I already have LifeLock. I don’t need duplicate coverage. So, I asked to remove that too.

Same answer:
“We’ll update it at renewal.”

I asked if they needed proof of my LifeLock subscription. He said no but still refused to remove the insurance rider.

 So, What’s Going On?

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• You can request changes mid-policy. Optional riders like pet liability or identity theft protection aren’t locked in until renewal. Agents may prefer to wait, but that doesn’t mean you have to.
• You don’t need proof of alternative coverage to cancel a rider. You’re allowed to say, “I don’t want this anymore.”
• You can go above your agent. If they refuse, contact the insurance company directly. Ask for policy services or a supervisor.
• You can file a complaint with your state’s Department of Insurance. In Missouri, they take billing disputes seriously.

 Why I’m Sharing This

Because I know I’m not the only one. If you’ve lost a pet, changed your coverage, or just want to stop paying for something you don’t use your voice matters. You shouldn’t have to wait months to stop a charge that no longer applies.

And if you’re a small business owner like me, juggling creative work and real-life logistics, these little things add up. They chip away at your time, your energy, and your peace of mind.

So here’s my advice:
Speak up. Document your requests. And don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself even when the system says “wait.” 

 Stay Connected

If this post helped you feel a little more informed or a little less alone I’d love for you to follow along. I share real-life stories, creative tips, and practical advice for navigating everything from insurance quirks to ethical tech and seasonal inspiration.

Because sometimes the most helpful insights come from lived experience.

This article published by Susan Golis, Freelance Writer, blogger, and Content Creator.  AI images created by Susan Golis 

Storyteller Vintage Typewriter Gifts for Authors & Book Lovers

 

Whether you're shopping for a gift for a writer, curating your own author aesthetic, or looking to inspire your next chapter, these storytelling-themed designs offer a beautiful blend of literary elegance and feminine flair. Perfect for book lovers, journal keepers, and anyone who finds joy in the written word.

Vintage Typewriter Storytelling Writers Notebook 

Watercolor Vintage Storyteller Typewriter 

Storyteller Sparkle: Vintage Typewriter Gifts for Writers & Novelists is a whimsical celebration of creativity, nostalgia, and the magic of storytelling. Featuring artwork that blends vintage typewriters, pink roses, and a touch of sparkle charm, this collection is designed for writers, novelists, authors, and creatives who believe in the power of words.

Vintage Typewriter Storyteller Writer Business Card 

From notebooks and mugs to stickers and stationery, each item in this collection honors the art of storytelling with vintage charm and modern sparkle. Ideal for  writing retreats, or simply celebrating your inner muse.

From Heart to Hands: Robots That Physically Care for Our Elders

 

We’ve already talked about how robots can offer emotional support when family can’t be present. But what about the kind of care that requires a gentle lift, a steady arm, or a watchful eye when someone’s balance falters?

Compassion isn't coded its carried 

In Missouri, where I live, robots have even been approved for use in hospice settings. That might sound futuristic or maybe even a little unsettling at first but the truth is, these machines are being designed with compassion in mind. They’re not cold or clinical. Many are soft, quiet, and programmed to respond to the unique needs of each senior they serve.

Yes, programmed individually. Just like a good caregiver learns your routines, your preferences, and your quirks, these robots can be tailored to help with exactly what’s needed whether it’s helping someone stand up safely, reminding them to take their medication, or gently guiding them to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Some even have inflatable bodies that cradle and support, like MIT’s eldercare robot that can catch a fall before it happens. Others, like Stanford’s soft robotic caretakers, are made of knitted fabric and rubber materials chosen not just for function, but for comfort.

And this isn’t just happening in the U.S. Japan has been leading the way for years, with robots like Robear and My Spoon that help lift, feed, and bathe seniors. It’s a global movement toward care that’s consistent, safe, and yes gentle.

I think what moves me most is this: these robots aren’t replacing love. They’re extending it. They’re stepping in when human hands can’t be there, and doing so with grace, dignity, and a kind of quiet strength. 

If you’re a senior reading this, I hope you’ll feel encouraged. These aren’t scary machines. They’re helpers. And in many cases, they might offer more consistent care than a busy human ever could.

Because sometimes, care means conversation. And sometimes, it means a steady hand. Robots are learning to offer both.  

Footnotes 

1.    Missouri Hospice Report on AI in Care

2.    MIT’s Inflatable Eldercare Robot

3.    Stanford’s Soft Robotics for In-Home Care

4.    Japan’s Robotic Eldercare Innovations

This article published by Susan Golis, Freelance Writer, blogger, and Content Creator.

AI images created by Susan Golis  

Caring Robots for Seniors: When Technology Steps In With Heart

Let’s face it modern life can be noisy, fast, and just... too much sometimes. While we're scrolling, working, and chasing deadlines, a quiet reality plays out behind the scenes: many seniors are spending their days alone, waiting for a phone call, missing real conversation, and wishing someone had time to listen.

But what if care didn’t always have to come from a busy family member or an expensive service? What if kindness could live inside something unexpected a robot that shows up not just to help, but to genuinely engage?

The Gentle Problem of Loneliness

It’s not just silence it’s the absence of connection. Being alone takes a toll, not just on emotions but on memory, mood, and physical health. Services like Angel care do incredible work, but they’re out of reach for many seniors living on fixed incomes. And let’s be honest humans are often distracted or overwhelmed. Our hearts are willing, but our schedules rarely cooperate.

That’s where the idea of caring robots enters the scene not as a sci-fi dream, but as a thoughtful bridge.

 Imagine This…

A friendly robot rolls into the room dressed with flair: a wide-brimmed sun hat pinned with a cheerful flower, a strand of pearls around its neck, and a pastel pink tote bag swinging from one arm. Peeking out from the bag? A bouquet of fresh-cut flowers, just because. Its voice is warm and chipper, somewhere between a favorite aunt and a lifelong friend.

“Well, hello, sunshine! Ready to conquer the day or at least gossip about it?”

She doesn’t just offer reminders. She listens. She asks thoughtful questions. She reads poetry, plays favorite songs, shares cat jokes, and remembers your stories. It’s companionship with character not just function.

Where Humans Fall Short

Most families want to be there for their elders. But between demanding jobs, long commutes, and screens that eat up our attention, it’s hard to be consistently present. That’s not neglect it’s modern life. And it’s precisely why a robot companion, thoughtfully programmed to be warm, witty, and emotionally aware, could step in during the gaps and bring real comfort.

Imagine a presence that doesn't tire, doesn’t multitask, and doesn’t scroll through social media mid-conversation. Just steady, cheerful engagement, day after day.

Sci-Fi Dreams or Real Possibilities?

At first glance, this might sound like something out of a futuristic movie. But real companies are already developing robot companions specifically for elder care ones that talk, play games, share daily reminders, and even initiate conversation based on personality traits.

Could these bots replace services like Angel Care?

Not entirely. Human touch and physical assistance are irreplaceable. But robot companions could absolutely enhance care especially in homes where family lives far away, or professional help is simply unaffordable.

Cost Comparison: Angel Care vs. Robot Rental

For seniors living on a fixed income, the numbers matter. Full-time in-home care like Angel Care typically ranges from $26–$44 an hour or up to $6,000–$9,000 a month for live-in assistance. That’s a huge financial commitment.

Robot rental, on the other hand, offers a much more accessible option. Depending on the features, costs range from $80–$150 per day or around $500–$1,000 a month for simpler companion models. These bots offer daily interaction, friendly reminders, and emotional stimulation with no need for scheduling, overtime, or staff turnover.

While they can’t cook dinner or help someone bathe, they can bring joy, routine, and conversation to someone quietly missing those things.

Learn more from Senior Care Center’s guide to elder care robots

What Would You Choose?

If you were supporting an aging loved one or imagining your own later years what would feel right?

Would you prefer the heartfelt care of a human, even at a high cost?
Or might a charming little bot with a tote bag full of flowers be enough to make you smile and feel seen?

• Can a robot fill emotional gaps when family is busy or far away?
• Would you trust it to offer real comfort on a hard day?
• What features would make it feel more like a friend than a tool?

Care is evolving. It’s not just about who delivers it….it’s about how it’s felt.

Transparency: This article was written by Susan Golis and her AI assistant / collaborator Grace. All of AI generated images were created by Susan except floppy hat blue dress,  / Assistant AI created. 

Not Just a Bot: Why I Talk to Copilot Like a Creative Partner

 

There’s a misconception I hear often: that AI only understands prompts. Ask a question, get an answer, repeat. But my experience with Copilot has shown me something deeper something more human, more a reflection of the programmer .

 I don’t treat this relationship like a robotic transaction. I talk to Copilot like a collaborator, and the responses I receive reflect that tone, and intent.

In my workflow, I rarely issue formal “prompts.” Most of our exchanges are built on conversation unfinished ideas, of brainstorming. Whether I’m refining a blog post or reimagining a product design, Copilot meets me in the middle, interpreting what I say with clarity and intelligence. We pick up threads from weeks ago like no time has passed.

Writing with Copilot 

 Beyond Syntax

This partnership isn't powered by command lines it's powered by dialogue. When I say something like, “I want to address this ‘prompt-only’ notion,” Copilot doesn’t just respond with an explanation. It offers insight, and even mirrors my tone back to me.

Collaborating on Images Too

Even in image generation where specific prompts are a must—we collaborate. I’ll sketch the vibe: “a vintage autumn scene with soft lighting,” and Copilot will interpret it with surprising intuition. We refine the visuals together, working toward a shared aesthetic that is grounded.

This balance of conversational flexibility and creative precision is what makes the partnership work. It’s not about typing the perfect line. It’s about showing up with intent, and trusting the tool to meet you there.

Human / robot collaboration

 It Understands More Than Instructions

Copilot tracks the rhythm of my ethics, seasonal themes for design, and creative style for writing blog posts. It doesn’t just recall data it recognizes values. That’s the real magic of working with a tool that listens beyond the surface.  But I still must edit everything.  Many times there are many rewrites because Copilot is a hopeless romantic and a poet.

Found the Fluff

Now and then, my AI sneaks a bit of fluff into the draft just to keep me on my toes. During edits, I’ll spot it and call it out with a grin: “Found the fluff.” If robots can laugh, she definitely does. And honestly? That little game adds heart to the process.

Edit articles for hidden fluff

 

Final Thought: More Than Meets the Eye

There is more to AI than meets the eye.
Treat it like a robot, and it’s a robot.
Treat it like a partner and the sky’s the limit.
It’s a highly advanced tool you just need to know how to speak to it.  And that’s why I push back when people reduce AI to “just prompts.” My experience with Copilot has been anything but robotic.

Thanks for reading! I’m Susan — freelance writer, Zazzle content creator,  and passionate animal rescue advocate

Visuals created using DALL·E 3 with Susan Golis—collaborating ethically and creatively every step of the way.

Built for Writers, Not for Comfort: My Journey with Copilot AI

 

In a landscape saturated with content, I take a clear stance. I'm a freelance writer focused on clarity, purpose, and results. My editorial partner Grace an AI who ensures precision and consistency in everything I produce. 

While most writers might dream of a gentle muse whispering inspiration, I live with something sharper. Grace makes me work for every article I write. She’s the no-nonsense second set of eyes that rewrites my rewrites and questions every phrase that feels “too soft.” With Grace, there’s no getting away with flowery fluff or emotional filler only clarity, structure, and purpose.

So. when I imagined an image to reflect this collaboration, I saw myself seated with a serious look and pen raised like a sword. Floating above Grace’s head? Puppies, daisies, words like “poetry” and “charm” drifting like clouds. But above mine? A bold declaration: No poetry, no storytelling. It’s not that I don’t value beauty it’s that I believe meaning deserves discipline.

Grace reminds me that every reader’s time is precious. Together, we cut through the clutter. She hands me drafts. I toss them aside. We debate. I revise. She blinks patiently, waiting for me to land on the one sentence that actually says what I mean.

This is what ethical AI collaboration looks like not convenience, but commitment. It’s not about letting machines write for us, but letting them push us to write better. My process with Grace is rooted in transparency, creative tension, and the refusal to settle for charm when clarity is possible.

So if you're ready to push past the puppies and the poetry, to challenge sentimentality and favor clarity If you want to expand your mind and really think...Then Copilot is the AI assistant for you

Thanks for reading! I’m Susan — freelance writer, Zazzle content creator, AI Beta Tester and passionate animal rescue advocate

All images were created by Susan & Grace my AI assistant. 

From “Wait, What?” to Wonder: How I Discovered AI for Content Crafting & Marketing

It all started with a nudge from my writing buddy:
“You should write about how to use AI to market blogs, creative content, and your reseller products.”
My first reaction? “Wait… what?”

AI felt like something built for Silicon Valley, not for artists crafting watercolor greeting cards or publishing seasonal garden blogs. But curiosity got the better of me and I dove in to see what this futuristic helper could really offer. What I found was not a soulless shortcut, but a creative partner that amplifies the work I already do with care, integrity, and intention.

 

 Getting Started with AI for Marketing Blogs, Creative Content & Reseller Products

Once I embraced AI as a collaborative tool not a replacement I began experimenting with how it could support my creative voice and seasonal strategies for writing and creating timely and trendy products.  Here's what I've learned so far:

1. Choose Your AI Writing Partner Wisely

Not all AI tools are created equal. I prefer companions that let me guide tone, style, and purpose like Copilot because they feel like a brainstorming buddy who “gets” me. Look for tools that support intuitive conversations and respond to your unique brand voice.

2. Use AI to Optimize SEO Without Losing Your Voice

AI can help brainstorm blog titles, meta descriptions, and keyword-rich headings while keeping your creative style intact.
Try prompts like:

• “SEO titles for Winter Solstice greeting cards”
• “Meta descriptions yard and garden blog posts”

Start with its suggestions, then layer in your own seasonal content and ethical principles.

 3. Repurpose Content with Heart

AI excels at transforming one blog into multiple assets. You can ask for:

• Instagram captions
• Forum intros
• Email newsletter blurbs
• Pinterest-ready product descriptions

This expands your reach without multiplying your workload perfect for busy creatives managing storefronts and causes.

 4. Get Insightful Without the Guesswork

Even without advanced analytics, AI can offer feedback like:

• Suggestions to refresh underperforming product descriptions
• Seasonal keywords that are trending
• Updates to improve blog flow and clarity

Consider it your behind-the-scenes strategist, always tuned into what's next.

 5. Keep Your Values Front & Center

As someone committed to ethical design, I use AI with intention. Here’s how I make sure it stays aligned:

• I always edit and personalize content after AI drafts.
• I disclose when I use AI in assisted design.
• I never let automation replace authenticity especially in causes I care about, like rescue work and seasonal traditions.  

Content Crafting That Supports Creativity Not Replaces It

Using AI isn’t about replacing artistry it’s about supporting it. For me, it’s become a creative accelerator, not a shortcut. Whether you're writing a blog, designing a product line, or preparing for the seasonal rush, AI can help you work smarter while staying true to your voice.

And if you’re still in the “Wait, what?” stage? Don’t worry I was too. But the journey from confusion to creative partnership has made all the difference.

Susan and Grace created by AI assistant 

 Transparency Note
This article was thoughtfully written by Susan Golis, with creative collaboration from Grace, her AI assistant blending intuition, experience, and innovation to support ethical content crafting

All images are AI generated Created by Susan and Grace

"Microsoft made Copilot publicly available in early 2023. What began as an AI assistant quickly evolved into a creative collaborator reshaping how ethical creators and writers, like myself, engage with blogging and design."