Long-overdue update

I've been invited to become an instructor at United Studios of Self Defense(www.ussd.com), as a part-time job. It's really neat to have the practice and effort I put into it pay off, and what a cool way to spend my spare time. Sensei Mike, who runs the Dojo here in Castle Rock, is a real disciple of the martial arts. He's been through a variety of training in addition to the normal curricula offered by USSD, including wrestling, Mixed Martial arts and such. Additionally, he's just a well-balanced, personable guy. I'm hoping to pick up a bit on his social skills, as he is really great at getting people to come out of their shells.

Also, I'm going through the insanity of refinancing the house. I actually bought a relatively cheap house, compared to my monthly income, and since we can afford it fairly easily, we are thinking of switching from a 30 year mortgage, to a 15 year one. I'm hoping to see some decent numbers on the final paperwork, as it almost seems easier to pay more on the balance each month, rather than go through the hassle of a refinance. Doing the math, I discovered that if I just increase my monthly payment to what the 15 year payment would be, the house would be paid off in 15 years, 8 months, versus 15 years on the refinance. I suppose it's worth doing, but just barely.