Penny Wise, Dollar Short

Mile High On The Cheap

2009-08-18T12:39:00.001-06:00

If you live in the Denver Metro area, be sure to check out http://www.milehighonthecheap.com

Golden West Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

2009-07-07T13:55:00.001-06:00

If you’re a home owner, sooner or later you are going to be faced with a plumbing problem. Knowing which plumber to call and wondering who you can trust to do a good job won’t be a problem if you live in the Denver Metro area. Golden West Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is a family owned and operated company that takes their commitment to you seriously.

Golden West Plumbing and heating is fully licensed and insured and use the latest technology and equipment so you can be assured that you job will be done right, the first time. Clean cut, experienced technicians are available for 24/7 to provide you with the fastest and most professional service in the Denver metro area.

If you have a routine maintenance need or a midnight emergency, Golden West Plumbing and Heating, Inc. will respond quickly to your call and provide you with straight forward pricing with no surprises when the job is completed. They are also experienced, licensed and insured to handle any heating, air conditioning or electrical problems.

Golden West Plumbing and Heating, Inc. offer the highest standard of customer service and would be glad to provide references upon request. They are members of the Better Business Bureau. Please visit their web site at http://www.denvercoplumbing.org.

Social Lending.net

2009-06-29T14:15:00.001-06:00

In these tough economic times, we are all looking for a way to survive the higher cost of living, the lower return on our investments, layoffs, cut backs and furloughs. Weather you would like to increase your income or if you need to borrow money, you might find an opportunity at a web site called “Social Lending.net.”
At http://www.sociallending.net/ you will find all the answers to your questions about person to person lending (sometimes called peer to peed lending, or social lending). Because social lending can be risky; Social Lending.net explains the advantages and disadvantages of lending money through a social lending prospect verses a traditional lending institution.
Social lending can be hazardous to the lender if proper due diligence has not been preformed. If you think you would enjoy playing “banker” all the information you need to get you started is at Social Lending.net.
There are many reasons why you may need to borrow money. Maybe you have poor credit, or you are too high of a risk to the traditional lenders. Possible you are student needing money for college, or perhaps you want to borrow money from a relative or a friend but would like to make your loan “official” Social Lending.net offers advice and tips on how to begin the process of peer to peer lending and outlines the advantages of person to person lending.

Gone Fishing

2008-06-13T06:52:00.001-06:00

Literally! I will be on a long weekend, fishing, canoeing, camping and relaxing until June 17th!

See ya then!

20 Fun Things To Do With Your Kids

2008-06-12T10:11:00.004-06:00

Spending quality time with your kids doesn't have to cost a bundle. Here are 20 inexpensive ideas for a fun summer.

Have a picnic. Find a cool shady spot, spread out a blanket and have a picnic.

Play games outdoors, Frisbee, catch, hide and seek, or make up games.

Lie in the grass and watch the clouds make shapes.

Pick up litter. “Adopt” an area in your neighborhood and keep it litter free.

Start a collection. Look for “cool” rocks, bugs, leaves, sea shells, (depending on your area), these are all free and fun to look for and collect. Coins or stamps are also fun to collect.

Dance. Turn on some music and “rock & roll”. This is not only fun, but good exercise too!

Read and write poetry. Encourage your children to be creative! Have a poetry reading.

Explore thrift shops.

Dress up in costumes, have fun applying make up and crazy hair styles. Let your kids “do” your hair/make up.

Attend the county fair. Enter a hand made item at the fair.

Go camping. If you don’t have time/finances to take a “vacation” type camping trip, camp in your yard or living room. Bring out the sleeping bags and spend the night.

Learn magic tricks. Who doesn’t love a good “trick”!!

Fly a kite.

Go to the library. Teach your child how the Dewey Decimal System works!

Make a video and post it on You Tube.

Visit the airport.

Visit a farmers market.

Have a tea party.

Cook/bake together.

Be sure to laugh with your child.

Wise Spending

2008-06-11T10:35:00.001-06:00

Spend Spend, Spend, this is what the government wants you to do with your economic stimulus rebate. They are counting on you to shuffle on down to the closest retail store and leave your money. Mega retailer, Wal-Mart, reported a 4% increase in sales for the month of May, and determined that the increase was a direct result of the stimulus rebate.

If you are still sitting on your rebate check, good for you!! A better way to spend your rebate check would be not to “spend” it at all. Here’s an idea: SAVE your rebate check!! Prepare for the unknown, start or add to an emergency fund. Experts say that your emergency fund should equal six months of your income, does it?

Consider buying a Certificate of Deposit, mutual fund or adding the lump sum to your 401K. 66% of Americans don’t have enough stashed away to live comfortable during retirement.

Try decreasing your credit card debt. If you can’t seem to get that credit card debt paid down, now is the time, use your stimulus rebate to decrease or eliminate this debt.

15 Ways To Multi Task Your Toothpaste And Save

2008-06-09T11:47:00.004-06:00

Burns Toothpaste is great for soothing a burn. Toothpaste has a instant cooling effect on burns and helps to relieve the burning feeling, but don’t use it on open blisters. If you burn your tongue, toothpaste will relive the burning in your mouth.

Polisher/ Jewelry Cleaner You can use toothpaste as a silver polisher or a jewelry cleaner. If necessary, let the paste sit on the jewelry over night and then wash it off. Don’t use toothpaste on pearls.

CD/DVD Buffer Squeeze a little paste on a cotton ball, wipe it over the disc to remove scratches off CD's and other plastic like surfaces.

First Aid For Bites Mosquito, bugs, ant bites and bee stings dab a little over the bit, it will sooth the itching.

Crayon Marks On Walls Rub the marks with some toothpaste and a damp rag, then wipe clean. Voila! Crayon marks will disappear.

Spackle If you are out of Spackle, use it as a quick remedy to fill in nail holes, etc. in your walls.

Acne Dab a small amount on a pimple before bed. Wake up and the zip will be gone! If you have sensitive skin, beware.

Nail/Cuticle Cleaner Put this miracle goo on a nail brush and clean under your fingernails!

Shoes/Sneakers You can clean leather shoes with toothpaste by squirting on a little bit where the shoe is scuffed. Then rub with a soft cloth. Wipe it all clean with a damp cloth. Clean rubber soles using an old toothbrush to scrub off scuff marks.

Kitchen Deodorizer Sour milk smells, rancid smelling water bottle/baby bottles, or long forgotten science experiments can be washed with toothpaste and rinsed and the smell will be gone!

Deodorize Hands Wash stinky hands with toothpaste to get out garlic, onion, fish or other bad smells regular soap will not control.

Defog Goggles/Glasses Toothpaste will “defog” your goggles, mirrors, windows or glasses. Wipe it on, clean it off, and the surface will stay fog free.

Cleaner Use some paste and an old toothbrush to scrub the grout/tile/mold due in your bathroom! Cleans, sparkles and smells great!

Remove Ink or Lipstick Stains from Fabric Rub the paste onto the stain for a few seconds, and rinse. This process may have to be repeated several times to do the trick!

Clean Your clothes Iron Scrub the gunk off of the bottom of your iron with a mild abrasive, non-jell toothpaste. Of course, make sure your iron is cool!!!

Healthy, Homemade, Low Cost Popsicles

2008-06-06T13:53:00.002-06:00

Instead of serving ice cream or sugary Popsicles this summer, why not indulge with this homemade, healthy, low cost frozen yogurt treat with fresh fruit!! They are simple to make and oh, so good, even a domestically challenged diva can make them in a snap!!

Here’s what you will need:
1 cup yogurt, any flavor and any combination of fresh fruit that tickles your pallet:
Example: 1 banana, 6 to 10 strawberries, 12/cup of crushed pineapple
Example: 1 banana, ½ cup of blue berries, 6 to 10 strawberries

1 teaspoon vanilla

4 to 6 3 oz paper cups, Popsicles molds, or any small container that can be put in the freezer
Plastic wrap or aluminum foil

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for 1 minute. If you want a smoother consistence, blend longer. When you are happy with the consistence, pour mixture in to the molds until they are two thirds full, cover with plastic wrap, stab the mixture with a Popsicle stick and freeze
for approximately 6 hours and enjoy!!

Deal or No Deal

2008-06-04T11:43:00.001-06:00

When shopping for new furniture, electronics, appliances, or sporting goods, don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson “what his best price is”. Most stores will shave at least 10% off of a big ticket item and it is not unusual for them to take 15% off just for asking. Many companies will also throw in free delivery to earn your business.

Do your homework and let the sales person know that you have been shopping around and are familiar with the competitions products and prices. Take the competitor newspaper ads or sales flyer's with you to back up your claim.

If you are going to pay for your purchase in cash, let the salesperson know that and ask them if there is a discount for cash. Many times there is.

Don’t hesitate to haggle for a deal, most merchants are willing to do what it takes to make a sale.

Recycle Soap Silvers

2008-06-03T13:16:00.002-06:00

What do you do with all those annoying little slivers of soap that no one wants to use? I always hate throwing them away so I have been looking for ways to use them up. Here are a few ideas!

Put the slivers in a spray/pump bottle, add some water, and shake! The annoying little slivers will turn in to liquid hand soap! Or, you could just buy liquid soap to begin with and you wouldn’t have this problem!!

If you have children, let them soak the left over soap in hot water to soften it, then they can press the softened soap into molds or cookie cutters to create tiny bath soaps for the bathroom. Oatmeal can be added to give the soap an exfoliating element. Essential oils can be added for fragrance. This makes a great “hand made” gift for teachers or grandparents.

In the 80’s, “Soap on a Rope” was a popular gift to give. Turn your “recreated”, jazzed up soap slivers into “Slivers on a String”! (Or a ribbon!)

You can rub soap shavings on a door hinge to stop the squeaks, or rub them on the runner of sliding doors or windows that stick. Rub soap on a sticky zipper to make it zip like new.

Break soap slivers into very small pieces and use to hand wash delicates.

Crochet a “bath mitt” with a pocket to hold the soap slivers, or cut a slit in a sponge to put the slivers in. Now you can scrub-a-dub dub with your body mitt to use up the scraps of soap.

Lay a few pieces of soap in your flower beds to keep pest from snacking on your flowers.

While bathing, wet a new bar of soap, and press the sliver into it until they stick together, TaDa! Problem solved!

Cute Ideas to Help Small Children Learn to Save

2008-06-02T13:52:00.002-06:00

I apologize for not having posted in several days. My step-dad passed away last week, so I have been busy with family details. I'm back now and I hope you enjoy this post with a couple of cute ideas to help small children learn to save a few pennies!!

Instead of letting a child load the tooth brush with paste, tell them to brush their teeth with a “rain drop”. A small dab of past in the shape of a rain drop is all the paste they need to have a good brushing job.

If your child is learning to use the “big” toilet, I’m sure he/she loves to use a lot of toilet paper!! Instead of flushing paper down the drain, put a box of facial tissue close by and teach them to use only one sheet per visit!

Shampoo is another fun thing to squeeze out of the bottle!! With bath crayons, draw a small circle on the tile in the amount you wish them to use. This way they have a reference as to how much to use.

Make My Day!

2008-05-20T10:08:00.006-06:00

Would it make your day if you found a stash of cash hidden in a long forgotten hiding place? One out of every 10 people has approximately $1000, somewhere, in a “forgotten” account.

It’s estimated that there is $32 billion sitting in lost or forgotten accounts. These “accounts” could be from unclaimed life insurance proceeds, utility deposits, savings accounts long forgotten, stock dividends, lost tax refunds, and pay checks that were never picked up.

By law, banks, insurance companies, utilities, and many other business are required to surrender inactive accounts to the government for safe keeping. If you can prove that you are you and the person entitled to the money, the government will be happy to hand the money over to you, without any charges or fees.

To find out if a windfall could be yours, go to www.unclaimed.org or www.missingmoney.com and take a look in your state. Check every state that you have ever lived in and enter all the names you might have gone by, such as your married or maiden name. If you don’t see your name, but think that you do have money coming to you, call the state’s treasury department and ask them to check for you.

Beware: There are companies that will gladly charge you a fee to look for this money. It’s so simple to do on your own that you won’t need to hire anyone.

Don’t "Flush” Your Money Down The Drain

2008-05-19T09:57:00.003-06:00

Alex Wilson states in his book Your Green Home, that water will be a far greater challenge to humanity in the 21st century than energy. Here are a few tips for living a little greener, saving a little water and saving money on your water bill.

If you could cut just one minute off of your daily shower, you would save 2,000 gallons of water per year. Install water saving shower head. These are relative inexpensive and easy to install.

If you have a one leaky faucet that leaks a drop of water per second, this is enough water to fill 16 bathtubs full of water per month. Fix Leaky faucets!!

If you have a swimming pool, cover the pool when it is not in use and save 15,000 gallons of water. This is the amount of water that evaporates yearly.

Install a new water efficient toilet. 30% of the water in most homes is flushed down the toilet. Many cities offer rebates on your water bill if you install a new water saving toilet. Don’t use your toilet for flushing trash like facial tissue or cigarette butts. If your can’t purchase a new water saving unit, put something in the water tank to take up the space of water, so your tank will stop filling sooner.

Don’t let the water run while you are brushing your teeth. Wet the brush then turn off the water. Turn it on again to rinse!

Don’t let the water run while you are shaving!

Don’t let the faucet run while you clean vegetables.

Run your dishwasher and clothes washer with full loads.

Don’t use running water to thaw anything frozen.

Keep a pitcher in your kitchen sink. If you need to let the water run to get hot, catch the water in a pitcher and water your plants with the “extra”.

Keep a bottle of water in the frig for drinking so that you don’t have to let it run from the faucet to get cold.

Don’t over water your lawn! Deep soak the lawn so that moisture will soak down to the roots where the water is needed most. When cutting your lawn, leave the grass at least 3” tall. This will promote water retention in the soil. Water early in the day (before 10:00) to prevent evaporation; don’t water when it is windy. Don’t allow your sprinklers to land on the sidewalks, or drive ways. When it is time to fertilize your lawn, apply the minimum amount of fertilizer needed. The fertilizer will make your lawn grown as well as increase the need for water.

Xeriscape your lawn, plant drought resistant shrubs and plants; many cities offer free classes on Xeriscaping. Use Mulch around trees and plats to hold water in.

When washing your car, don’t let the hose run, instead use a nozzle.

Install a rain shut-off device on your automatic sprinkles to eliminate unnecessary watering.

Place a bucket or barrel at down spouts to catch rain water. Use this water for watering your yard and plants.

Make Your Own Fun and Save!

2008-05-16T13:18:00.001-06:00

Homemade Bubbles
1/2 cup dish detergent
5 cups water
1 teaspoon oil
Mix all ingredients together and have suds of fun!

Play Dough
4Cups flour
1 ½ cups of water
1 cup of salt

In a large, flat bottomed bowl, mix flour, & salt with a spatula. Add water slowly, mixing as you pour. Additional water may be added if needed, but the dough should be very stiff. Knead for 10 minutes. Dough is ready to use when texture appears soft and smooth.

When the little artist is done playing with the dough, it can be stored in an air tight container. For longer lasting dough, store in the refrigerator!

This dough can also be sculpted, or cut into creations that can be bakes in the oven set at 325 degrees. Baking time depends on the thickness of dough, usually ½ hour per ¼ inch thickness. When your project is done baking and cooled, you will be able to paint it!

Is the cost of fresh milk, “Milking” your grocery budget?

2008-05-15T14:55:00.002-06:00

The cost of a gallon of fresh milk has risen almost as much as the cost of a gallon of gas. If your looking to cut down on your grocery bill but still want to drink milk, try replacing your milk consumption with a little powered milk.

I know what you are thinking,,,,,,,YUCK!! Most people don’t like the taste of powered milk, but if you are sneaky you can introduce powered milk to your family by mixing it with the good stuff a little at a time. Try mixing one third powered to two thirds regular milk. Use the regular milk jug, make sure the milk is very cold and no one will know the difference!! When cooking and a recipie calls for milk, always use powered milk. Noone can tell the difference when dry milk is used in recipes!! Using powered milk in this way will be a huge savings in your weekly grocery tab.

What else can you use powered milk for? I’m glad you asked!!!

Sooth itchy, insect bites, poison ivy, or a throbbing sunburn by mixing 1 ½ cups of powered milk, a quart of water, two tablespoons of salt and a few ice cubes. Apply the solution to the infected area with a cloth to sooth the burning and itching.

Milk is a natural skin softener. Add 1/2 cup of powdered milk into the tub as it fills, then lay back and enjoy a soothing bath as your skin is naturally softened!Pamper yourself with a milk facial mask.
Use ¼ cup powered milk, mix with a little water, just enough to form a paste and apply to your face. Let it dry, then rinse! This at home, inexpensive, do it yourself facial will feel as good as any facial you receive at a spa!!
If you would like a spa like exfoliation treatment uses the same recipe as above but add a tablespoon of oatmeal. This makes an amazing skin softener as well as exfoliates.

Make a soothing, inexpensive make up remover. Mix three tablespoons powered milk and 1/3 cup of water to the consistency of heavy cream. Apply to your face, remove with a soft cloth, and rinse with tepid water!

If you have fish that has been in your freezer a little too long, place the frozen fish in a bath of milk until it thaws. This will make your fish taste (almost) like a fresh catch!

Want your week old corn on the cob to taste like it was picked from the field this morning? While you are preparing the water to boil your corn in, add ¼ cup of powered milk. Boil your corn as usual; the added milk will make the corn taste fresher and sweeter!

Treat your plants to a bath using 1/3 cups of dry milk and 2 cups of water. Mix thoroughly; use a soft cloth to wipe dust off of your plant foliage.

FISCAL FITNESS

2008-05-14T16:01:00.001-06:00

Barbara O’Neill, PhD, DFP, Extensions Specialist in Financial Resource Management, Rutgets University Cooperative Extension, (With all this following your name, how can you not be a financial guru?!) has four tips for “fiscal fitness”.

1. Pay yourself first by saving at least 10% of your total income every paycheck. If possible, have it deposited automatically into a savings account before you are tempted to spend it.

2. Save $1.00 a day by putting change in a can or jar, or by reducing daily expenses by $1.00. You should be able to save about $50.00 a month or $600 a year. Increase the amount to $2.00 per day, plus loose change and you’ll have over $1,000 in savings!

3. If you put $10.00 per day ($300) monthly toward paying off an $8,000 credit card balance at 16% interest, you could pay off the credit card debt in THREE years instead of decades.

4. Paying just $1.00 a day more than the minimum payment due on a $5,000, $10,000 or $15,000 credit card balance with 17% interest will save you $7,624, $12,615, and $16,168, respectively in interest payments!

2008-05-13T14:51:00.001-06:00

Here’s a great money saving website for those with children, www.swapbabygoods.com. This is a great place to go to save tons of money on the things you buy everyday for your family. It’s a website where you can swap your children’s toys, clothes, books, DVD’s, furniture, etc. They also offer coupon swapping and discussion forums and a news letter! Check it out!!

Dryer Sheets, Not Just For Dryers

2008-05-12T15:27:00.004-06:00

A fabric dryer sheet has many uses besides adding fragrance and removing static cling from your clothes in the dryer. They are multitasking little fibers new and recycled! Here are numerous penny saving ideas to stretch your dryer sheets.

Use the fragrance sheets to freshen the air in your home by placing over the heating/air conditions vents.

Tape one to the top of your ceiling fan to spread the aroma.

Place an individual sheet in a drawer, or hang one in the closet.

Place a couple of sheets in the bottom of the dirty laundry basket.

Tuck one under the seat of your car and in the glove box.

Leave several in the RV or camper while it's in storage.

Stick a sheet in with your vacuum bag.

Leave a sheet in your luggage before storing.

Place a sheet among seldom read books or photo albums.

Stick a sheet in all of your shoes!

Roll up a dryer sheet in your toilet paper roll. Each time you spin, it releases a little freshness into your bathroom.

Slightly wet a sheet and use it to scrub the scum, soap build up and minerals out of your shower.

Fabric softener sheets are designed to help eliminate static cling, wipe your television and computer screen with a used sheet to keep dust from resettling.

If you are a fiber artist, run your sewing needle through a sheet prior to sewing, to prevent the thread from tangling.

Use a used sheet in your fiber art.

Take a used dryer sheet, spray insect repellent into it. Then dab on the back of your neck, legs and arms.

New dryer sheet are great for repelling mosquitoes on your patio, just hang a sheet near by and mosquitoes will leave you alone. Take some along on a picnic so the ants will not invade your party.

Place a sheet in the bottom of your trash cans before you add a trash bag. The dryer sheets will absorb any liquids that get through as well as adding a pleasant fragrance.

Here’s an idea I have read about, but haven’t tried: Use fabric softener sheets to clean baked on foods from cooking pots and pans. Place a dryer sheet in a pan; fill with water, and let sit overnight. The next day the stuck on food can be wiped away! The antistatic agent apparently weakens the bond between the stuck on food and the pans surface.

When you think your dryer sheet is finally used up, use it in flower pots to cover the hole in the bottom to keep dirt from coming out!

2008-05-11T11:33:00.000-06:00

Happy Mothers Day!

Eat Out Without Sabotaging Your Budget!!

2008-05-09T10:39:00.003-06:00

I love to eat out! I know, I know, cooking at home is probably half the cost of eating out, but for me, if I can’t eat out once in a while, life wouldn’t be worth living!

According to the National Restaurant Association, wholesale restaurant food prices rose 7.3% in 2007, the largest increase in three decades. I don’t even want to know what the increase will be in 2008. If you’re like me and want to eat out once in a while, here are a few tips for saving a little dough and not completely blowing your budget.

Watch for coupons. When you are scanning that Sunday paper for those valuable grocery coupons, keep an eye out for dinning coupons. Purchase an “Entertainment Book”, or join Restaurant.com for some great values. Do a Google search for on line printable coupons. When we are going to eat out, my husband will say “Where do you want to go?” and I always say “Let me see what restaurants we have coupons for.”

Split a meal! Typically, restaurants serve huge portions. Order one meal and split it with your partner.

Control yourself!! Eat half your meal, and box up the rest. Today’s left overs are tomorrows lunches!! Now your meal price was just cut in half!

Always order Water! Most beverages are around $2.00 each, for a family of four, that’s $8.00 just for beverages!

Always, always, skip dessert! With desserts running around four bucks each, who need them? Save the calories, save the fat, save the dough!

Go with the lunch bunch! Lunches are always cheaper! At our favorite Mexican restaurant, for the exact same meal, lunch is $2.00 an entree cheaper!

Choose wisely. You don’t have to go to the most expensive place in town to have a great meal or a good time. Choose a moderately priced restaurant and save.

Sign up and join the club! Sign up for restaurant emails, I get tons of coupons and even free meals by signing up for e-mails from all my favorite places to eat, including fast food. Many establishments have reward programs that offer point’s for dollars spent that can be redeemed for free meals or complimentary items such as an appetizer or dessert. Don’t forget to join the birthday clubs, most offer a free entree for the birthday person!

3 Yummy Meals Under $10.00

2008-05-07T09:25:00.003-06:00

Chili Pot Pie
Shopping List
1 lb. Ground Turkey - $3.50
16 oz. Can of Tomato Sauce - $.99
15 oz. Can of Black Beans - $.69
15 oz. Can of Whole-Kernel Corn - $.69
2 packages (8.5 oz. each) dry corn muffin mix - $.89
Taco Seasoning - $.79
12 oz. Can of Evaporated Milk - $1.19
2 Eggs - $.99
Total - $9.73

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
Cook ground turkey in a skillet until all is browned. Drain any fat off of meat. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, corn, black beans and 3/4 of the can of evaporated milk. Bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes. Stir occasionally. Pour mixture into baking dish.
In a medium bowl, combine corn muffin mix, eggs, and remaining evaporated milk. Stir and then spoon the mixture evenly over the turkey mixture.
Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Homemade Pizza
Shopping List
Ready-to-cook Pizza Crust - $2.13
Pizza Sauce - $1.25
Shredded Mozzarella - $2.50
1lb ground beef $3.50
Onion cut up $.50
Total $ 9.88

Open the pizza crust container and spread it out on a cookie sheet. Follow the instructions on the package. Top the crust with pizza sauce, ground beef, onion, and cheese. Bake until the cheese is bubbly.

Turkey Meatballs & Spaghetti
Shopping List
1 lb. Ground Turkey - $3.50
Spaghetti $.99
1 Can of Spaghetti sauce $.99
½ cup of bread crumbs - $.50
1 Large Egg - $.39
A dash of salt
A dash of pepper
Total: $6.37

Bring two quarts of water to a boil, add spaghetti and cook for 10 minutes.

Combine turkey, salt, pepper, bread crumbs, & egg in a bowl. Shape the meat mixture into one inch ball-size meatballs, placing them in a skillet to brown. Cook, turning often until meatballs are cooked clear through.
Drain Spaghetti, add sauce and meatballs.

When is Cheap Too Cheap?

2008-05-06T08:33:00.003-06:00

I asked some of my friends “what are some of the wackiest things you have ever done to save money”. Here are a few of the more “interesting” ideas:

When you go to a fast food restaurant, always take a hand full of ketchup, salt, pepper, mayo, napkins, etc. This person said she never buys these items!

Never buy toilet paper, use news paper or magazines like they did years ago. (eeegads!!)

Eat dog food.

Marry a man who is handy and can do repairs around the house!

Never buy sandwich bags, instead use the plastic your newspapers come in, use bags from frozen veggies, or bags that cereal is packaged in.

Go around on garbage day and pick things out of the trash to sell on Craigslist.

Here is my favorite: For wedding flowers one lady said she went to a cemetery the night before her wedding and picked up the fresh flowers.

I may be cheap, and I may be frugal, but I’m not sure all of these money saving tips are for me!! Hope you found them as interesting as I did!!

I Won't Tell Anyone That They're Fake!

2008-05-05T13:46:00.001-06:00

Love flowers, hate to water and weed? I have always been an avid gardener, always giving my plants and flowers lots of tender loving care. However, the cost of plants and water has caused me to reevaluate my love of being a novice horticulturist. For the last couple of years I have “planted” fake flowers. I can purchase enough fake flowers at the dollar store to fill all my flower boxes for $20.00. If I were buying “real” plants, I’d get about three plants for this price.

The “flowers” can be plucked out of the ground in fall, washed down with the hose, stored and “replanted” in the spring! Every few years I will have to replace some of the faded flowers, but in the mean time, I have a beautiful flower bed that is much cheaper to “plant” and maintain than real flowers. The best part is that from the street, no one can tell that their fake!!

Save On Hair Cuts

2008-05-02T12:02:00.003-06:00

If you enjoy going to the stylist, beautician or barber to get your hair cut, skip this post! If you’d rather save some money on hair cuts, read on! Learn to cut your own hair or at least learn to cut your children’s hair. We all know that going to a salon is not cheap. Where I live the average kids cut is $12.00. If you have two children and each get their hair cut once a month, that’s $288.00 on children’s hair cuts a year. The average adult price range is about $20.00 monthly. That is $240.00 a year for one adult. One adult and 2 kids total $528.00 a year, plus tips. For me, that is a lot of money!!

When my kids were growing up, I always cut their hair. I used to pay for my own cuts, but I was always unhappy with the cut and would go home and cut it over myself! I finally decided that I might as well "just do it" myself! It is not difficult to learn and the thing about hair is that it will always grow back!! Here are a few links that will guide you in learning to cut hair.

http://www.expertvillage.com/video/8663_cutting-hair-scissor-cut.htm

http://www.hairfinder.com/howto/how_to_cut_hair.htm

http://www.expertvillage.com/video-series/598_cut-style-mens-hair.htm

http://www.howtodothings.com/fashion-and-personal-care/a2795-how-to-cut-your-own-hair.html

http://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Kids'-Hair

Cleaning Supplies You Can Afford!

2008-04-30T13:38:00.002-06:00

Here are a few money saving ideas to use for cleaning jobs around the house. Most are more economical than buying packaged cleaners.

All Purpose Cleaner: Mix 1 tsp. lemon juice, 1 tsp. liquid soap into 1 quart of water. For moping floors, use a pail. For cleaning counter tops and appliances, use a spray bottle.

Bleach substitute: Soak item in lemon juice for 15 - 20 minutes and then wash as usual.

Brass and Copper Cleaner: Combined vinegar and salt to make a paste, rub with a soft cloth.

Drain Cleaner: Weekly - put ½ cup of baking soda in drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. For clog - put ½ cup of baking soda in drain, followed by 1 cup vinegar.

Furniture Polish: Mix ¼ cup white vinegar and ¾ cup of olive oil, rub with an old sock.

Mold Cleaner: Cut a lemon in half and scrub. If abrasive is needed use a little salt.

Room Freshener: In a spray bottle mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with 2 cups of water.

Rug Shampoo: Mix ½ cup mild soap, 2 Tbs. of vinegar with 1 quart of water. Whip into a foam. Apply the foam with a sponge mop and scrub. Let dry thoroughly, and then vacuum.

Scouring Powder: Combined 1 Tbs. baking soda and 1 Tbs. salt; for non abrasive cleanser just use baking soda.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl, spray on some vinegar and scrub. If you happen to have dentures and use denture cleaning tablets, take 3 overnight denture tablets and drop into toilet bowl; let soak overnight, then scrub.

Window Cleaner: In a spray bottle mix ¼ cup of vinegar into 1 quart of water. Unlike packaged sprays, this will not streak your windows. Use black and white newspapers instead of paper towels to clean windows, they work much better. A great way to save a few pennies and recycle!

Eliminate Your Electic Bill? Too Good to be True?

2008-04-29T11:32:00.004-06:00

I ran across this site www.power-save1200.com/incentives2

OWN POWER-SAVE™ PRODUCTS AT LITTLE OR NO COST! Government Incentives and Rebates Mean You Save Thousands! Decrease or Eliminate Your Electric Bill Today! Power-Save Energy Co.'s unique business model allows us to offer the most sophisticated energy generation and conservation products at the most competitive prices on the market. Additionally, our Power-Save Solar System and Power-Save Wind Turbine are eligible in most states for government incentives that will significantly reduce your costs. In some states, incentives will reduce your investment to $0!
Sign up NOW to Receive All of the Information You Need to Decrease or Eliminate Your Electric Bill Today!

I signed up for the free information, I think this is worth checking out. According to this site, I can purchase this and get a rebate from the state of Colorado for the total purchase price. There are 12 other states that are listed as giving a total rebate.

Free Recreation Verses Expensive Entertainment

2008-04-28T14:49:00.002-06:00

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on theme parks, concerts, movies, or plays. Most cities have free attractions; check out this site for inexpensive activities in your city: http://www.free-attractions.com/.

Pack a lunch and take the kids to a park. Play Frisbee, or catch, fly a kite. Go on a scavenger hunt. Drive to a lake, take a nature walk, hike or learn how to fish. Take some books, sit under a tree and read. Teach your kids that they don’t have to be “entertained” to have a good time. Recreation does not have to be expensive entertainment.

15 Gas Saving Tips

2008-04-25T10:10:00.004-06:00

With the national price of gas currently averaging $3.55 a gallon we are all looking for ways to get the most miles per gallon possible. Here are a few tips:

1. Avoid letting your car idle. Do not let your car idle more than 30 – 60 seconds to warm up, then drive conservatively until it reaches normal operating temperature. If you are going to idle for more than 60 seconds, turn your car off. Starting your can uses as much gas as it would if it idled for 30 seconds.

2. When visiting a fast food restaurant, park your car and go into the restaurant rather than idling in the drive-through. This especially helpful if you are running the air conditioner. Idling with the air conditioning on uses extra fuel.

3. While driving, accelerate slowly, this is not a race, you don’t have to be the first one off the line. Stop driving aggressively! This can be a huge savings. Maintain a safe following distance. Don't stick to the bumper of the car directly in front of you. You will brake more and accelerate more.

4. Clean out any unnecessary items in your car. If you have heavy objects in your car that you don't need, remove them. If your car is lighter, it will use less fuel to get where you're going. This can be a savings of 2%.

5. Remove unneeded racks. If you have a bicycle or ski rack, remove it when you're not using it. It causes drag and lowers mileage.

6. Anticipate red stop lights (and stop signs). Look far ahead; get to know your usual routes. You can let up on the gas earlier. Coasting to a stop will save the gasoline you would otherwise use maintaining your speed longer. If it just gets you to the end of a line of cars at a red light or a stop sign a few seconds later, it won't add any time to your trip. Why keep accelerating only to hit the brakes to stop?

7. Park in the shade. Gasoline actually evaporates right out of your tank, and it does so faster when you park directly in the sun - winter or summer. Parking in the shade also keeps it cooler inside, and you will need less A/C to cool off when you get back in. If there is no shade available, park so that your gas tank (the actual tank under the car, not the valve to fill it) is facing away from the direct sun.

8. Instead of running your AC, lower your windows; AC can waste up 15% of your gas. When you are “on the open” road and driving faster, it is better to close your windows and sunroofs to eliminate drag. The point at which AC is more efficient is at 35-40 mph.

9. Go to RideSearch.com and find a carpool. Check with co-workers to see if there is anyone that you can carpool with. Use the bus. Take a look at a map, maybe there is a better, shorter route to work. Avoid heavy traffic, and a lot of traffic lights. The shortest route may not always be the most efficient route if you have to stop a lot.

10. Do not rest your left foot on the brake. The slightest pressure could cause a drag that will demand additional gas, and will wear out the brakes sooner.

11. Anything electrical that is on in the cars draws electricity from the battery which causes the alternator to run, which causes the engine to work harder which, in turn, uses more gas. In theory even the radio would decrease gas mileage but it would be so insignificant that you would not be able to tell.

14. Save 3% in gas by maintaining correct tire pressure. My Theory is to over inflate tires by a pound or two of pressure. This makes them roll easier and, therefore uses less gas. Don’t over inflate more than 2 lbs.

15. And to repeat a tip from a previous posting: Get organized before you leave the house! Make a list of the stores/errands that you have to go to and make a mental road map of the shortest distance between stores. Combine your shopping: buy postage stamps at the grocery store instead of making a trip to the post office. Does your grocery store have a Red Box? Get your movie there too. Pick up your dry cleaning on the way to/from work. A little planning will save you big bucks on gas.

Free Magazine Subscriptions

2008-04-23T13:00:00.004-06:00

Here are a few links to free magazine subscription sites:

http://www.magazines.com/ 1-800-624-2946

http://all-freemagazines.tradepub.com/

http://www.startsampling.com/

http://www.dealtaker.com/Free-Magazines-and-Catalogs-f61.html

If anyone knows of any other place to get free subscriptions, please let me know! Thanks!!!

According to Kaiser Permanente and the American Psychological Association 63% of Americans reported that money issues were their leading stressor in 2006. Do you suppose it is any different in 2008?

Save a Little, Save a Lot!

2008-04-22T08:55:00.002-06:00

1. Stop your Starbuck habit! If you have to have that cup of Joe in the mornings, buy a coffee maker with a timer or buy a cheap coffee maker and a cheap timer. Your coffee can be waiting for you when you wake up. If you insist on flavoring in your cup, you can buy huge bottles of flavoring that last forever for around ten bucks and small bottles for about two bucks).

2. Read the daily newspaper on the Internet. You should only subscribe to the Sunday paper that includes valuable coupons.

3. Use those Sunday coupons!

4. If you drink soda, give it up! One can of soda contains 12 teaspoons of sugar! If you must drink it, buy it on sale, stock up and take a can from home for lunch instead of buying it out of a vending machine.

5. Drop your gym membership. Buy an exercise DVD and work out at home. Take up walking or running, it’s free.

6. Don’t buy lottery tickets! You have a better chance of getting hit by lightning than winning the lotto!

7. If you smoke, QUIT!! (I know, I know, easier said than done!!) Now’s the time!

8. Stop buying bottled water. Reuse bottles you already have and fill them from the tap. Most cities have water that is better to drink than some bottled water. If you must, invest in a purifying system.

9. Look for free magazines on the Internet and stop buying them. Here is a list of the FREE magazines that I get! These are subscriptions, not just a free issue:

Prevention, e Week, Alzheimer’s Association, Car and Driver, Inc., Turf, Executive Controller, Computer World, Automotive News, Government Video, Elevate, Nutraceuticals, World, Skiing, Water-ski, Business Week, Spin, Antiques, Nylon, Road & Track, Radar, Vibe, Kit Planes, Landscape Care, Blender, Baby, Star, Flying, Boating, Metropolitan Home, Electronic House, Computer Shopper, Charisma, Seventeen, climbing, Redbook, Ellie, Country Living, Gaming, Cosmopolitan, Cosmo Girl and Miracles.

Once I am done with them, I put them on Freecycle.com or take them to the library for others to enjoy.

10. Rent your movies for $1.00 from Red Box! Red Box has many locations and rent new releases for only $1.00 compared to Blockbusters $4.99.

11. Get organized before you leave the house! Make a list of the stores/errands that you have to go to and make a mental road map of the shortest distance between stores. Combine your shopping: buy postage stamps at the grocery store instead of making a trip to the post office. Does your grocery store have a Red Box? Get your movie there too. Pick up your dry cleaning on the way to/from work. A little planning will save you big bucks on gas.

Postage is Going Up, But You Can Still Save

2008-04-18T09:07:00.000-06:00

If you don’t already pay your bills on line, now may be the time to start. Postage goes up to 42 cents May 1st. The average household receive about 180 bills a year, that’s $75.60 for postage a year. Most banks have on line banking and free bill paying; take advantage of it and save $75.60 a year!

Simple Tips for Saving Money in the Kitchen

2008-04-16T08:34:00.000-06:00

Buy a cheap small plastic pump spray bottle, and fill it with any cooking oil. Use it to oil baking or frying pans. It’s cheaper to use than "PAM"

Dry Bread Remedy - If your bread becomes dried out, try popping it in the oven for a few minutes after adding a little water to it (or microwave with a wet paper towel). The bread will absorb the water and become moister.

Use cloth napkins! Cloth napkins are a “green” way to go and cost less in the long run. If you have a stash of fabric, make your own cloth napkins. Always save the extra two or three napkins they give you at the fast food drive through window. I use these before I reach for a paper towel.

Stock up! When an item you use a lot of goes on sale, buy several. This is money in the bank! Freeze milk, meat, even sick granola bars, crackers, etc, in the freezer to keep them from tasting old until you can use them. Same thing goes for buying in bulk or shopping at a warehouse. Buy fruit when it is on sale and in season. Clean it, freeze it and make pies, breads, deserts, and smoothies all winter long.

Try shopping at small ethnic grocery stores. Their prices on fruit are usually about ½ of name brand grocers.

Check the “bargain bins” at the back of the store. Baked items are especially reduced. You can even find discounted “day old” cupcakes. If you need to provide a treat for the kids, do they really care if the cupcakes are a day old?

Use more pastas and beans with your meals. Making beans from scratch costs about half the price of canned beans. You can cook up a big batch, freeze them and they will be ready to pull out of the freezer for future use, ready to go.

When boiling water, put a lid on your pan, it will boil faster and use less energy.

Never, ever throw food out! Freeze it for later, make a smoothie out of aging fruit, make a “surprise” omelet by throwing in left overs. I have read that the average family of four, wastes $60.00 worth of food a week.

Never ever throw away a plastic container! Instead for buying Tupperware or purchasing other plastic containers, reuse butter, cottage cheese, sour cream or yogurt containers. Yogurt containers (the kind with the snap on lids) are just the right size to fill with cottage cheese, apple sauce or fruit to pack in lunches. The containers can be washed and reused until they break or just thrown away if your child needs a lunch for a field trip and doesn’t want to carry empty lunch containers home.

Remember, waste not, want not!

Tax Day!

2008-04-15T09:16:00.004-06:00

The dreaded "April 15th" is here, does everyone have their taxes filed? I have had mine done for a while. We are actually getting some money back this year! Baring any unexpected expenses, I am planning to put the money in savings along with the rebate money.

I'd love to hear what you are going to do with your rebate money?

How to “Meet” Your Grocery Budget

2008-04-14T10:44:00.003-06:00

Food prices have increased 4% from 2006 to 2007 according to the Economic Research Service and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (It seems like more than 4% to me!) The USDA projects an even bigger increase for 2008, UGH!

If your family likes to have meat at meals, you are probably thinking about making some adjustments to your normal eating habits to be able to afford meat, eggs, and dairy. Not to mention juice, fruit, and cereal!

Consider serving meat as a side dish instead of the main dish. Use your crock pot to cook a roast, shred it, add bar-b-q sauce and make sandwiches. Instead of hamburgers, make sloppy joes. Use meat in stir fry over rice, bake casseroles, and soups, top salads with grilled chicken.

As with all your grocery shopping, watch for sales and plan meals around the sales and store specials. Our local store has a section in the meat cooler that is discounted because it is a day old. This meat is perfectly fine for your evening meal or to put in the crock pot.

Approach a local farmer about purchasing a whole beef from him. You will have to pay for processing and packaging, but the cost per pound is usually cheaper than at the grocers. You will also need to make sure you have room in your freezer for this amount of meat.

My family was not particularly impressed with I asked them to consider having a “Veggie” night!

Rub-A-Dub, Dub, Too Much Soap in the Tub

2008-04-11T12:56:00.002-06:00

Do you wear an article of clothing and then throw it in the dirty clothes bin? Most of the clothes you wear do not need to be washed after wearing them for one time. Jeans especially can be worn for two or three times before washing them. If you wear a T-shirt under a sweater or sweatshirt, put the T-shirt in the laundry and fold the sweater/sweatshirt up for future use. (Needless to say, undies should go into the laundry after each use!!)

Do you wash your bath towels after every use? When you step out of the shower, aren’t you supposed to be clean? If your body is just wet and you are only drying yourself, why does your towel need to be washed? Hang the towel up to dry and use it again the next day.

Don’t run your washing machine on a 15 minute cycle. Most clothes are not so soiled that a three minute wash will be sufficient to clean them. Also remember that the detergent companies are very generous when they recommend the detergent amount to be used. Remember, they are SELLING you the detergent and would like to see you use more than is really necessary. I always use less than half of the recommended amount of detergent. If one item is particularly soiled and others in the same load are not, I use a spray treatment on the extremely soiled article and still only add half the recommended amount of detergent.

Washing your clothes less and using less detergent will not only save you money on detergent, electricity, time, and wear and tear on your washing machine, your
clothes will last longer and look new longer.

Family Meals for Under $10.00

2008-04-10T13:31:00.002-06:00

I saw these great recipes on Bargainist.com written/submitted by Alison Storm. They look like yummy meals and wanted to share them with you! A family meal for under $10.00, WOW!

Posted on 03/06/2008 on Bargainist.com
Feeling like Mexican? Italian? Maybe Greek? No need to head to a restaurant to feed the family, we've got you covered. All you need are (around) $10 worth of groceries, a little prep time and a big appetite.

Recipe #1 - Chili Cornbread PieShopping List1 lb. Ground Turkey - $3.50 16 oz.
Can of Tomato Sauce - $.99 15 oz.
Can of Black Beans - $.69 15 oz.
Can of Whole-Kernel Corn - $.69
2 packages (8.5 oz. each) dry corn muffin mix - $.89
Taco Seasoning - $.79 12 oz.
Can of Evaporated Milk - $1.19
2 Eggs - $.99
Total - $9.73
Step 1 - Preheat oven to 400 degrees and grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
Step 2 - Cook ground turkey in a skillet until there's no pink remaining. Drain the meat. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, corn, black beans and 3/4 of the can of evaporated milk. Bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes. Stir occasionally. Pour mixture into baking dish.
Step 3 - In a medium bowl, combine corn muffin mix, eggs, and remaining evaporated milk. Stir and then spoon the mixture evenly over the turkey mixture.
Step 4 - Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

Recipe #2 -
Homemade Pizza Shopping ListReady-to-cook Pizza Crust - $2.13
Pizza Sauce - $1.25
Shredded Mozzarella - $2.99
Can of Mushrooms - $.89
Total - $7.26
Step 1 - Open the pizza crust container and spread it out on a cookie sheet. Follow the instructions on the package. Pre-baking may be required before adding toppings.
Step 2 - Top the crust with pizza sauce, mushrooms and cheese. Add other ingredients such as onions, sausage or pineapple. Step 3 - Bake a little longer, until the cheese is bubbly.
Step 4- Slice up and eat.

Recipe #3 -
Turkey Meatball GyrosShopping List1 lb.
Ground Turkey - $3.50
Pita Bread (4-6 slices) - $3.00
1 bunch of Scallions - $.99
Yellow Rice - $.791/4 cup
Plain Yogurt (or Greek Yogurt) - $.63
½ cup of bread crumbs - $.99
1 Large Egg - from your fridge
1/4 tsp. Ground Cinnamon - from your pantry
Total: $9.90
Step 1 - Move oven rack to highest position and heat broiler.
Step 2 - Combine turkey, cinnamon, salt, pepper, bread crumbs, egg and 3/4 of the scallions (chopped) in a bowl. Shape the meat mixture into golf ball-size meatballs, placing them on a foil-lined baking sheet.
Step 3 - Broil the meatballs until they are cooked through. This should take about eight minutes. Turn them once during cooking.
Step 4 - Top or fill a slice of pita with meatballs, yogurt and remaining scallions.

A Hairy Situation!

2008-04-09T16:13:00.000-06:00

Ladies, don’t spend money on those cans of leg shaving foams and creams, instead use hair shampoo or conditioner. Foams and creams are expensive. A bottle of shampoo can be picked up for less than a dollar at Wal-Mart and will last a whole lot longer.

Lathering up from bar soap will work too. However, shampoos and conditioners will not dry out your skin like bar soap.

Don’t Be Lazy, SAVE!

2008-04-08T13:48:00.001-06:00

If you are struggling to make ends meet, are you paying for services that you could do yourself? Don’t be lazy, do it yourself and save!!

Clean your own house, make it a “family affair”!
Wash, set and style your own hair, if you have children; learn how to cut their hair.
Wash and vacuum your own car. Learn how to change the oil in your car.
Do your own nails.
Wash your dog yourself.
Do your own yard work.
Learn how to do simple home repairs. Hardware stores give free “How To” clinics all the time, and the library is full of “How To” books, consider trading skills with a friend or neighbor.

Free Candy Samples!

2008-04-07T13:23:00.001-06:00

Who doesn't love candy!! Especially free candy!!
Click the link and sign up for a free candy sample!!

http://mommymadecandy.bravehost.com/sample.html

A load of dishes or a postaga stamp? Which is cheaper??

2008-02-19T13:50:00.005-07:00

I just read a "Dishwasher Tips" article put out by the good people from Cascade. I was interested in their statement that said there is no need to over load a dishwasher because even running the dishwasher for small loads is still more energy efficient than doing dishes by hand in the sink. According to Cascade, it takes between 6 and 10 gallons of water to run your disdhwasher compared to 9 to 24 gallons if washing dishes by hand. It also stated that on average, you can wash a load of dishes in your dishwasher for less than the cost of a postabge stamp. At the rate the cost of postage is going up, I wonder how long this will be true!! In case you haven't heard, stamps are going up (again) in May. Don't forget to stock up on "Forever" stamps before then.

What's In YOUR Sock Drawer?

2008-02-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

ATM fees can add up! Why not make your sock drawer or any hidden space your own personal ATM? Instead of paying ATM fees weekly, figure out your monthly expenses and put that much cash in a drawer the first of every month. As you need cash, take out what you need at the time. If you keep only $20.00 or $30.00 in your wallet/purse, you’ll be much less likely to spend a dollar here and a dollar there. By keeping a small amount in your pocket, you will be more careful with your money and less likely to spend as much.

Are you a tax “Do-it-Yourselfer?

2008-02-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Are you a tax “Do-it-Yourselfer”? Many people overpay on their taxes every year, on average $1,000 because they try to do fill out their own taxes. It may be worth it to pay a tax professional to make sure that you’re getting all the proper deductions.

Are You A Conscious Spender?

2008-02-08T11:20:00.001-07:00

You might be a conscious spender if:

If you always know how much you have charged on your credit card.
If you say no to things you really want because you don’t think you will have the money.
If you always use the things you buy.
If you have money in your checking account and don’t spend it.
If you know how much money you spend in a year on lunches or manicures.
If you get a raise and don’t upgrade your lifestyle.
If you save for retirement.
If you can clearly list what has “value” for you in life.

Stale Crackers?

2008-02-06T10:02:00.001-07:00

I am always surprised at how fast crackers turn stale! I refuse to eat stale crackers so instead of throwing them away I throw them in the food processor, add a few herbs, mix and use as a coating for baked chicken, as a topping for casseroles or mix in with meat loaf. Use the same idea for stale bread. Make croutons by cutting it up in cubes, coat it with olive oil, and bake in a 350 oven until they become dry.

Smart Snacks

2008-02-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

When your after school activities turn into a marathon driving kids from school to soccer practice to piano lessons and back to the gym for play practice, it’s tempting to go through a fast food drive through for a few snacks. Instead, plan ahead and pack a cooler with healthy snacks and bottles of water. Try vegetables, yogurt, bananas, nuts, cheese and other fresh fruits. This will save you time and $$$ not to mention the health benifits!

Smart Ways To Spend Your Rebate!

2008-01-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

Washington is working on an economic stimulus plan. Sooner or later 116 million households are likely to see a check in their mail box. When you receive your check will you stimulate the economy or will you stash your rebate away? If you spend it, will you spend it at Wal-Mart? Remember, Wal-Mart buys most of their items from China, do you want to stimulate China's economy and fatten Wal-Mart’s wallet?
Blow it or keep it? My first impulse would be to blow it of course!! However, once the pragmatic side of "Me" rears its ugly head, the smart thing to do is to be selfish. Yes, put the money where it will do the most good for YOU!

Smart ways to spend your rebate:
Save it! Everyone needs at least$1000.00 in the bank. If you've got nothing between your regular paycheck and the bill collectors, now's the time to take action.
Consider starting a savings account. Online banks pay several percentage points more than most brick-and-mortar operations, check them out.
Do you have a retirement account? Start a 401(k) plan or a 457 account. Most employers will match 50% of your contributions into a retirement account up to a certain point.

Are you carrying a balance on your credit cards? Credit cards are expensive; use this money to pay off your high interest credit cards. Wouldn’t it be nice not to have that minimum payment each month?

Make an extra mortgage payment. $1,000 today on a 30-year, 7% mortgage would save you $4,000 over the life of the loan.

Books, Never Buy Them New!

2008-01-24T09:28:00.000-07:00

Are you an avid reader who just can’t wait to get your favorite authors latest book? If you’re on a budget, you might want to rethink your purchases of books. New releases are fun, but at almost $30.00 a book, not practical.

Most books are only read once. If you can wait a couple of weeks to read John Grisham’s latest novel, I will probably be available in your neighborhood second hand book store at an astonishing discount. There are many on line book swaps where all you pay is a small shipping charge to swap for a great title you haven't read.

Your local library will have a copy of the best author’s new releases. Most libraries will allow you to reserve titles online and some will even deliver them to your home.

Don’t forget to check out garage sales! They are great for finding 25 Cent books!!

Learn How To Haggle

2008-01-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

Max Edison is the author of How to Haggle. In his research for the book, he learned that 90 percent of customers who haggled on everyday items were successful at least once in reducing the price of the items. Don’t avoid haggling simple because you don’t want to look like a “cheapskate”, bargaining can pay off big-time and save you hundreds of dollars.

Prepare yourself before you go shopping. Research on line the item you are interested in buying. Find out how much the item regularly sells for and how low the sale price usually goes for.

Here are five tips from Edison on how to haggle:

Offer to pay in cash. Many retailers will be willing to knock off between 3% and 4% for cash. Use the statement: “Can you do a little better if I buy today and pay in cash?”

Ask when the item goes on sale and then see if they will sell it to you today for the sale price.

Offer to split the difference. If you are stuck on one price and the manager won’t offer you that price, ask to split the difference.

Look for flaws with the item. Politely point out flaws and as for 20% off.

If the manager won’t budge on the price, ask him/her to throw in a free installation or delivery.

Freecycle.org

2008-01-18T06:44:00.000-07:00

Want to save a few bucks and rescue items from landfills?

Check out Freecycle.org. This is a network where members list items they no longer want or need. Things on this site are not for sale, but are listed for FREE! All you have to do is pick the item up. Many great items from beds, pets, craft supplies to desks are listed daily.

Is it wise to splurge on skin cream?

2008-01-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

When it comes to skin care are expensive creams better?

According to dermatologist David Bank, M.D., expensive is not better. A $160 bottle of moisturizer probably contains the same active ingredients as a $15.00 bottle of skin cream. The active ingredients in all skin care products are usualy Retin-A, Copper, alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins. All major manufactures, including the manufactures of “low end” lotions and cosmetics develop and test their products in state-of the-art laboratories using these active ingredients.

Why then are some brands outrageously expensive? You are paying for the name, packaging and marketing. Many higher dollar lotions also contain more fragrances and preservatives, which increases the cost.

Terrific Facial Toner

2008-01-15T09:07:00.001-07:00

Here is a soothing, cooling, inexpensive facial toner:

¼ t. honey
1 t cider vinegar
½ C distilled water
2 drops of essential oil
1 drop of sandalwood oil

Heat honey, cider vinegar and 1 T water in top of double boiler until honey dissolves. Pour into a container and add remaining ingredients. This wonderful, fragrant toner can be splashed on your face after cleansing, using a mask or scrub. The remaining solution can be stored in a cool place for up to two weeks.

Are You Spending Too Much On Oil Changes?

2008-01-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

Is it necessary to change the oil in your car ever 3,000 miles? If your driving is “Severe”, then the answer is yes! You qualify as a “severe “driver if you make frequent short trips averaging less than seven miles, travel on dusty roads, tow a trailer, take long trips in hot weather or let your car idle for long periods of time. For “normal” driving conditions an oil change is recommended every 6000 miles, “severe” driving conditions warrants a change every 3000 miles. Experts at AAA say that changing the oil more frequently will not hurt, but NOT changing it when needed can cause serious harm to the engine.

Evaluate your driving pattern to determine if you are a “Normal” or “severe” driver and then change your oil accordingly.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2008-01-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone the best in 2008!!

Free 2008 Calendar

2007-12-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Get a free 2008 Calendar at one of these links:

North American River Runners - Free Calendarhttp://www.narr.com/inforeq4.asp
Free Vanity Fair 2008 Calendarhttp://www.vfinsider.com/index.aspx
Free 2008 Senior Calendarhttp://www.seniorcalendars.com/samples.htm
Free 2008 calendar from Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (email)http://www.ahfmr.ab.ca/AnnualReport/order.php
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Free 2008 Kids Hemophilia Calendarhttp://biorx.net/wp/biorx-offers-free-2008-kids-hemophilia-calendar-7
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Free Scenic Calendar for Life Quotehttp://aaafreequotes.notlong.com/
Free Football and Sports Calednarshttp://sportsfreebies.headplug.com/
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Free 2008 Mercy Ships Calendarhttps://secure.mercyships.org/webinfo/standard
Free 2008 Wall Calendar - Church Mutualhttp://www.churchmutual.com/index.php/choice/risk/page/ads_calendar/id/35
Exploring Spasticity - Free 2008 Calendarhttps://www.medtroniceducation.com/kma/www/exploring_spasticity/calendar_order.jsp
Free Magnetic Refrigerator Calendarhttp://www.tipsforyourtrip.com/Free_Gift.html
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Free 2008 Range Riders Calendar, need company namehttp://www.experiencethewest.com/sample.htm
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Free Golf Travel Plannerhttp://www.travelgolf.com/travelform/
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Free Art Institute Calendar and Info Kit - Reghttp://tinyurl.com/34pgf6Enter zipcode, then scroll down to art and design in drop box, then hit submit
Free Tech Geek Calendar and Info Kithttp://www.momurl.com/teckgeekkit/
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Free Business Planning Calendarhttp://www.imdiversity.com/mediakit/calendar_form.asp
Free ADHD Kit with DVD Calendars and Morehttp://www.momurl.com/adhdforparents/
Free USA Flag Calendars for Quoteshttp://usainsurancequotes.org/
Free Direct TV Info Kit and NFL Schedule Calendarshttps://www.satex.com/online_quote_nb.html?nbid=10454
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Free Charity Calendar from 4Chttp://www.charitycards.org/Register/Calendar.aspx
Free 2008 Grayarc Calendarshttp://www.grayarc.com/samplerequest.aspx
Calendarshttp://mediaplusforms.btobsource.com/enduser/products/subcategory.jsp?key1=MAJ-HOL+CA&key2=CALENDARS&key3=DEPOWALL+C
Free 2008 Charles River Calendarhttp://www.criver.com/agrochemical_services/agrochemical_services/whats_new/2008_calendar_agro.html
Up to Four Free 2008 Calendarshttp://www.weprintforless.com/samples.htm

A Cheaper and Effective Cough Remedy

2007-11-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Ginger Tea

1 inch of fresh ginger root, sliced thin or grated
1/2 a fresh lemon, sliced but not pealed
1 clove garlic, mashed
~2 c water
1 T honey

Place water, ginger, lemon, & garlic in saucepan; bring to boil, then turn down heat and simmer gently for 20 min. Strain into mugs and add lots of honey.

Ginger tea is very soothing to the throat. It will warm and open the chest and nasal passages. Plus there are all those vitamins and other good things!

Money Saving Links

2007-10-17T13:21:00.000-06:00

If you have small children, here are a few links that offer samples or gifts.

www.pampers.com

www.huggies.com

www.clubmom.com

Website: www.coolsavings.com

www.JohnsonsBaby.com
www.Baby.com

www.BabyToBee.com

www.welcomeaddition.com

www.enfamil.com

www.gerber.com/special

Pay Your Library Fines!!

2007-09-26T14:16:00.000-06:00

Many local municipalities are crunched for funds. Some cities have hired collection agencies to ferret out unpaid parking tickets and library fines. This may not sound like a big deal, but if you haven’t returned your long over due books, and your name is turned over to a collection agency, your credit scores may be damaged. Any time a debt goes to a collection agency, your credit score may be dropped by as much as 100 points.

Advice From Suze Orman

2007-09-04T11:36:00.001-06:00

America’s financial advisor Suze Orman suggests an easy way to save money: raise your FICO score. This score determines how much interest you pay on everything from credit cards to mortgages. If you could raise your score from 500 to 760, you’d save $78 a month on car payments for a $20,000 vehicle. Thirty percent of your FICO score is your debt-to-credit-limit ratio. If you can’t pay off your credit card, request an increase in your limit, but don’t actually use the extra credit. Another thing you can do to raise your FICO score is to have a relative with a high score add your name as an authorized user to his or her card. Your relative doesn’t actually have to give you a card. This will help your score, without lowering your loved ones.

Get a (Really) Free Credit Report, No Strings Attached

2007-08-31T12:45:00.000-06:00

Many websites and TV commercials flaunt information about “free” credit reports and use gimmicks to rope you into paying for a credit report or a monitoring service. You can get a free credit report from the three major credit reporting companies, no strings attached!! Just go to www.annualcreditreport.com, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion will provide you with a free report once a year, just for asking! If you space your request, that’s one report every four months. It is wise to keep an eye on your report and check it for accuracy. If you would get your report by mail, just call 1-877-322-8228.

Save Pennys with Blue Dawn Dishwashing Liquid

2007-08-27T14:52:00.000-06:00

Say "Hello" to a very versatile and surprisingly multi-purpose household product, Blue Dawn Dishwashing Liquid. Here are nine ways to save with Blue Dawn.

ICE PACK. Partially fill a strong zip-type sandwich bag with Dawn dishwashing liquid, close and freeze. Just to be safe, double bag it. Freeze. The liquid soap stays cold much longer and it can be re-frozen many times. It will conform to the place you need an ice pack.

BUBBLE PARTY. Combine ten parts distilled water and one part Dawn Dishwashing Liquid to make your own bubble solution. And add 1/4 part white corn syrup (like Karo) if you want to make more sturdy bubbles. Gather up things like clean soup cans that have both ends cut off orHula-Hoops with makeshift handles attached. If you want to, you can pour the solution into a plastic kiddy pool and make huge bubbles. Turn it into a scientific experiment and go on a hunt for bubble-making items in your kitchen. This is a super cheap idea that's lots of fun.

HAND DEGREASER. Forget those pricey automotive hand cleaners. Full strength blue Dawn Dishwashing Liquid cuts through grease and gets hands and nails clean with no harsh chemicals.

CLEAN AUTOMOTIVE TOOLS. Soak them in a solution of Dawn dishwashing liquid before you put them away to remove all the oil and grime. As a bonus Dawn will help prevent rust from forming on the tools.

MANICURE SECRET. Soak fingers in full-strength blue Dawn It makes the cuticles soft and easy to work with. And it removes the natural oil from the fingernails, which allows the polish to adhere very well.

REPEL ANTS. Spray countertops, cupboards and any other area where you see ants with a solution of Dawn and water. Wipe dry The slight residue of Dawn that remains will not be a problem at all for kids or pets, but ants hate it. Should you see a trail of ants, go ahead and hit them with the Dawn spray. You'll see. It will kill them.

BATHROOM CLEANER. Original blue Dawn Dishwashing Liquid has some kind of miraculous quality about it that makes it "melt" through stubborn soap scum and hideous build-up on showers and tubs, no matter whether porcelain, acrylic or fiberglass. Use it straight up and you'll bless the day you read this column.

HAIR PRODUCT BUILDUP. Once a month use original Dawn as you would shampoo. It will remove excess oil from your hair and scalp and strip away any build-up of styling products-without any damage. Perform this once a month and you won't have to buy expensive salon products that do the same thing.

STAIN SPOTTER. Original blue Dawn Dishwashing Liquid used full-strength gets just about any kind of spot out of washables. Keep a small squeeze bottle in the laundry room so it's always handy. Especially Ketchup!!!BONUS: Dawn Dishwashing Liquid is biodegradable, while other chemical solvents may not be.

Timing is Everything!

2007-07-06T14:37:00.000-06:00

Different bargains can be found during different times of the year.

The best time to find a deal on the following:

Cars September
Computers July and August
Furniture January and July
Linens January
Major Appliances September and October
RV's Fall and Winter

Thrifty Tips

2007-03-28T13:58:00.000-06:00

Tub Tips:
If you think your tube of toothpaste is empty, cut the tube in half and you will find enough past to last 5 or 6 more brushings.

Use baking soda as a toothpaste, it is just as good as store bought paste.

To remove stains from your teeth, occasionally brush with lemon juice.

Make your own mouthwash using a few drops of essence of peppermint and a pint of water. This costs a fraction of commercial mouthwashes.

Bath Sachets:
2 Cups ground up soap slivers
4 Cups fine rolled oats
1 Cup powered borax
2 t. sachet power

Mix all ingredients together and spoon into small squares of material, gather edges together and tie with a ribbon. This makes a cute, inexpensive gift. I you want a quick fix, spoon ingredients into an old sock, tie and toss in the bath.

Don't want to make bath sachets? Don't waste your soap slivers. Take a fresh bar of soap, prick holes in one side of the fresh bar and one side of the sliver. Wet both and press the soap tightly together for a minute and leave overnight. When using the "new" bar, use the side with the sliver first.

Make liquid soap with your soap slivers. Put the slivers into the blender with a little water. Blend on low until you are happy with the consistency, pour the liquid soap into a dispenser.

Why Do Middle-Class Americans Struggle

2007-03-26T14:12:00.000-06:00

The Commerce Department recently reported that the national personal savings rate for 2006 slumped to the lowest level since the Great Depression. On Average, Americans not only spend all the money they make after taxes, but also are digging into their savings or putting more debt on their credit cards.

Many middle-class Americans struggle because of corporate greed, downsizing, outsourcing and out of control health care costs. While these are all legitimate problems and concerns, could it also be that we are not willing to give up our wasteful ways and current lifestyles?

Remember last January, before the Super Bowl? 2.5 million Americans went out and bought themselves a high-definition television set just for the game!! Add to that expense, and average of $49.00 per person was spent on related merchandise, food and beverages.

If you are an average, middle-class, hard working two family income household, do you think these are expenses that you could afford? Were you able to make ends meet after these expenditures?

It's A Tea Party!

2007-03-20T15:22:00.000-06:00

If you’re a tea sipper like I am, you probably have dozens of tea bags laying around your house in your drawers and cupboards. Friends and family give me tea as gifts for all occasions. I pick up bags at restaurants, hotels and even send for free samples. Here are a few tips to help you save a few pennies and us up those extra bags of tea.

As an air freshener mix one quart brewed tea and four tablespoons lemon. Put in a spray bottle and shake well and spray!

Cold tea is an excellent cleaning agent for any kind of wood. Dampen a soft cloth with tea and gently clean your wood furnishings and molding.

Mix one part tea to one part double-strength beef stock as the liquid when making a pot roast or stew.

To accelerate the germination of seeds, mix two tablespoons of cold strong tea with each pound of seed. Cover and set in the frig for five days. Before sowing, spread the seeds out onto papers to dry and let dry.

To relieve minor burns, apply a wet tea bag directly to the burn.

Soothe canker sores by applying a wet tea bag directly on the sore.

Soothe tired eyes with cool bags of tea. Place bags over closed eyes and rest for 15 minutes.

Get relief from a sun burns by patting the burn with wet, cool bags of tea.

If you would like to add highlights to your red or brown hair, rinse your hair with brewed tea.

Quotes

2007-03-19T12:28:00.000-06:00

Think what you do when you run in debt; You give to another Power over your Liberty.
Benjamin Franklin

They that go a-borrowing go a a-sorrowing.
John Clarke

New Tax Breaks For 2006 Taxes

2007-03-16T11:51:00.000-06:00

Every year there are changes in tax laws, deductions and credits. To get the biggest federal tax refund, you need to know what these are. Here is a list of some of the major changes in tax breaks for individual filers for 2006:

Energy credits for homeowners. If you installed certain energy-efficient products in your home during 2006, such as windows, exterior doors, insulation, and heating and cooling equipment, you could receive a tax credit up to $500.

Retirement plan tax savings increased. If you have a 401(k) or 403(b) plan, you can now create a qualified Roth contribution program.

Charitable Donations. Clothing and household items donated to charity after Aug. 17, 2006, must be in good used condition or better to be deductible.

Telephone Excise Tax Refund. Individual taxpayers will be able to request a refund if they paid the federal excise tax on long-distance or bundled service.

New Split Refund Option. Taxpayers now can split their refunds among up to three accounts held by up to three U.S. financial institutions, such as banks, mutual funds, brokerage firms or credit unions.

Green vehicles tax credit. Owners of new hybrid vehicles purchased in 2006 are eligible for tax credits up to $3,400, depending on the model.

For more information, visit the http://www.irs.gov IRS website. Or refer to Publication 553, Highlights of 2006 Tax Changes, and the instruction book for Form 1040.

Grandma's (inexpensive) Carpet Cleaning Solutions

2007-03-14T11:48:00.000-06:00

Carpet Cleaning Ideas

To give your light colored carpet a fresh look, brush with cornmeal before vacuuming.

Homemade Carpet Shampoo:
1/2 c powdered detergent
1t ammonia
1 quart of warm water

Mix ingredient in a bowl, stirring constantly to work up a layer of froth. Using froth only, rub carpet lightly with a sponge or cloth. Stir solution to get additional froth. Allow carpet to dry and vacuum.

If you are shampooing your carpet with a carpet cleaning machine, cover your furniture legs with plastic baggies to protect them and to keep your carpet from getting rust stains caused by metal legs on damp carpet.

Carpet Stain Removal Ideas

Mix a diluted solution of vinegar, dish soap, and water. Dampen a cloth with this solution and press firmly against the stain for several seconds. Blot dry with a clean cloth.

Shaving cream can be used as an emergency carpet stain remove. It works on coffee, wine, ketchup, chocolate, and tea.

Sprinkle salt liberally on fresh stains and allow to soak up the moisture, then vacuum. Salt is great for absorbing mud stains.

Homemade Carpet Stain Remover:

Mix equal parts of salt and baking soda. Add several drops of white vinegar and enough water to make a paste. Check carpet for color fastness, then apply the paste to the stain and let it set. When it is dry, brush it away and the stain should go with it. For a particularly nasty stain, scrub it when you first apply the paste.

Homemade Pet Stain Remover:

1 C of hydrogen peroxide
1 T of baking soda
1/2 t of dish soap

Mix all ingredients and stir well. Apply solutions to the stained area with a sponge. Let dry and vacuum!

Do You Know Your Budgeting Guidelines?

2007-03-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

Here are the recommended debt guidelines. Creditors use this guideline when reviewing and approving your credit application.

Housing: Your housing expense (mortgage, rent, taxes, repairs, improvements, insurance and utilities) should not exceed 35% of your income.

Transportation: Monthly car payments, gas, oil, repairs, insurance, parking or public transportation should not exceed 20% of your income.

Debt Budget: Credit cards, personal loans, student loans and any other debt payments should not exceed 15% of your income.

Investments & Savings: Stocks, bonds, cash reserves, art, etc., should be at least 10% of your expenses.

All Other Expenses: Food, insurance prescriptions, doctor and dentist bills and clothing should not exceed 20% of your income.

Take some time to calculate your debt to see how your budget measures up. If you are spending more in one category than the guideline suggest, make a list of what you are buying and brainstorm ways to cut cost in that category. If you are under in one area, you may add the extra percentage to another category.

Are You spending More Than You Make?

2007-03-08T14:09:00.000-07:00

According to a recent survey, most people are spending 10% more than they make! The average person may know what their check will be each payday, but they have no idea how much money they spend in a pay period. Based on the average American income we spend $431 per month more than we make. No wonder the average credit card debt in $8,500.

When setting up a budget, I'm sure we all remember to list the big expenditures like the car payment, house payment/rent, food and utilities. What we sometimes tend to over look are what I call the "Budget Suckers".

Here are a few Budget Suckers that may not be included in your monthly budget:
Your car's oil changes, tire rotations, new windshield wipers, new batteries, the cost to renew your drivers license, tolls, inspections, parking meters, newspapers and magazine subscriptions, the morning coffee or juice from the juice/coffee bar, chipping in for the co-workers gift, the garbage bill, haircuts, tips, vet bills, and when company arrives, increased food, and utility bills. Most of us remember to budget for birthday gifts, and holiday gifts, but what about cards, wrapping paper, bows and tags? Have you over extended yourself??

Are You Green?

2007-03-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

Are you green? If you are not ready to jump on former Vice President Al Gore's green band wagon, you should still consider a few green ideas that could save you some cash. Here are a few money saving tips to make any tree hugger proud!

1. Unplug appliances and electronic when you are not using them. This could reduce your electricity bill by 20% a year.

2. If you drive with your foot in the carburetor (as my Dad used to say!) take it out. If you drive 55 mph instead of 65mph you will save an average of 15% on fuel.

3. An annual savings of $10- $40 can be yours if you put your computer in sleep mode when it is not in use.

4. Paper! Use the back side of junk mail envelopes to write notes, or to make lists. Save sheets of paper that are only used on one side. Let the kids use the clean side of the paper to draw or doodle on . Use the back side of the paper in your printer to print out drafts, one time recipes, etc.

5. Speaking of your printer; when printing a draft or unimportant document use your preference selection under "print", click on draft and then gray scale. This will make your print cartridge last twice as long.

6. Pay your bills on line to save postage and paper.

7. Invest in a programmable thermostat. Programing your furnace at a lower setting when you are gone or asleep will net you a savings of $100 a year on your utility bill. Keep your daily temperature at 68 degrees and wear a sweater. If you are sitting and you are chilly, get up and move around for exercise and it will warm you up.

8. Replace your incandescent lite bulbs with a compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL). The saving to replace just one 100 watt incandescent bulb is about $30 over the life of the bulb.

9. If you like crafts or like to sew recycle old blue jeans and flannel shirts in to warm and cute quilts. Turn old T-shirts into pillows, use old panty hose as stuffing. Turn old sweaters into purses. There are many craft/sewing ideas on the Internet for recycling old clothes. These handmade items make wonderful gifts. People love to receive handcrafted gifts.

10. With spring coming soon, many of you may be getting "spring fever". If you love to garden get together with friends and neighbors to swap cutting from each others existing perennials. When making new plant purchases, go together with friends and split flats of plants. Make a donation to the Arbor Foundation and they will send you free trees.

Cash in on "Stuff"

2007-03-05T11:53:00.000-07:00

Are you "over stuffed?" Make extra money selling your "stull" to the "under stuffed!" Clean out your cupboards, your closets, your garage and clean out your basement. Anything and everything has been known to sell on eBay. Get rid of your clutter, junk, and clothes you haven't worn in a while and make some extra cash by selling it on line or have a garage sale. If it is your first time selling on eBay, get a friend, or neighbor with eBay experience to help you list your items. It is a fairly simple process to list things, but it would be nice if someone could help you get started. Most kids over 12 know the ins and outs of eBay. Beware that eBay charges a fee for listing your item and then will take a percentage of your selling price. Don't forget to calculate a shipping price, buyers usually pay for shipping and want to before buying what the charge will be. You will need a PayPal account to sell on eBay. PayPal will also take a cut of your profits. If you live in a metropolitan area, try listing your "stuff" on Craigslits.com. Craig's List does not charge anything for listing an item, but it only sells locally. I personally have had great luck selling on Craigslist and would recommend it.

Now that you have cleaned out your nooks and cranny's and have taken in come cash, DO NOT BLOW THE MONEY!! It is sooooooo tempting to tell yourself that you deserve a treat, or something special because you worked hard to earn the extra cash, but you need to stand strong in your effort to get out of debt. TAKE THIS MONEY AND PAY IT ON A CREDIT BILL, or make an extra car payment or ad extra to your house payment,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,PLEASE DON'T JUST BLOW IT!!

WD-40, A Miracle Spray?

2007-03-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering what an article about a lubricant is doing on a blog about saving money, but that is just the point! WD-40 is a miracle in a can and can take the place of a lot of different expensive cleaners and does a better job than most high-priced products.

WD-40 was developed in the 1050’s by three chemists looking for a rust preventative solvent and degreaser. This Water Displacement formulas (WD) was born on the 40th formulation, thus; WD-40 was born! It is safe for you (the basic ingredient is fish oil) and cleans most all surfaces. Here are a few useful ideas for using WD-40:

1. It will remove lipstick from cloths. Saturate the lipstick spot with WD-40 and wash.
2. It will remove crayon from walls. Spray and wipe with a clean rag.
3. It protects silver from tarnishing.
4. It will remove road tar from your car.
5. It will clean and lubricate guitar strings.
6. It will rid rocking chairs, swings, tricycles, wagons bikes or anything else that squeaks of their squeak.
7. It will remove bugs from the bumpers of your car.
8. It attracts fish. Spray a little on lures or live bait. It is cheaper than the chemical attractants that are sold for this purpose.
9. It can be sprayed on your joints to relieve arthritis pain.
10. It will remove tree sap from your car.
11. It will remove stickers from most surfaces
12. It will remove splattered grease on your stove.
13. Clean your bathroom mirror with it and the mirror will not fog up
14. It will restore and clean the leather dashboard in your car.
15. If you live in a snowy climate the white stuff can build up on your dish and screw up your reception. Shoot a coating of WD-40 on the dish and the snow will slide off instead.
15. If you squirt the threads before you install the bulb it won’t get corroded and break when you try to change it.
16. It will keep the squires away from your bird feeders if you spray it on the feeder poles and it will keep the pigeons off the porch.
17. Spray it on an ant bite immediately and it will take the sting out and stop the itch.
18. It will loosen stuck sippers.
19. It will remove water spots on polished aluminum.
20. Use it on anything that needs lubrication. (fans, sprockets, fan belts, saw blades and other tools.)

Buy on Sale

2007-02-26T15:23:00.001-07:00

Every week check your favorite stores sale flyer. If you use an item a lot that is on sale, but you are not out of it,,,,,,,,BUY IT ANYWAY!!! Always buy your favorite (nonperishable) foods on sale. Stock up that pantry. Not only will you save by buying the items on sale, but you will save gas and time by making fewer trips to the store. Don't be afraid to use coupons for extra savings. Coupons can save you at least $5.00 a week easy.

Natural (inexpensive) Recipies for Baby and Mom

2007-02-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Here are a three natural recipes to sooth baby and mom as well. My grandmother used these recipes on here children.

Natural Oil
You will need:
A container with a lid
1/2 Cup of Lavender Essential oil
12 drops of olive oil
5 drops Mandarin Essential Oil

Mix ingredients in container by shaking to blend oils.
The blend of Lavender and Mandarin is not only beneficial to the skin, but is relaxing and can calm a baby along with the massage given as you apply the oil.

Teething Gel
You will need:
Small container
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil or glycerin
1 drop of Clove Essential Oil
In a small bottle, mix the Clove Essential Oil with the vegetable oil and shake till well-blended. Rub on babies gums to sooth the pain of teething.

Baby Wipes
You will need:
A Container with a tight lid
High quality paper towels
1 cup of distilled water
1/2 cup of Aloe Vera Gel
20 drops of Lavender Essential oil
3 drops of Tea Tree Essential Oil
2 t vinegar

Put all ingredients in container, cover and shake to blend. Mix well.
Essential Oil is healing to the skin, the vinegar and Tea Tree will help to prevent diaper rash and it will help the wipes from becoming moldy.

Cut the paper towel roll in half and remove the center cardboard. Put 1/2 of the paper roll into a container and soak in the solution. More solution may be added if the roll seems dry. Start by removing a towel from the center of the roll. Refrigerate the remaining solution for later use.

Charitable Ddonation Tax Changes UpDate

2007-02-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

Taking effect in 2007, the Pension Protection Act changes the tax laws for charitable donation. Under the new law, any tax payer wanting to claim their donation as a tax deduction must show a receipt from the charity, a canceled check, or credit card statement to prove their donation. As with most deductions, no tax deduction will be allowed if the taxpayer cannot provide any supporting documentation. Taxpayers will not need to mail in the receipts with their tax return, just make sure that you keep them with your copy of the return in the event that you should be so unlucky as to be audited by the IRS.

This new law modifies the rules for non-cash donations as well. Items donated, such as clothing, household goods, and cars, must be in good condition. However, the term 'good condition' has not been defined.

The Pension Protection Act permits taxpayers over 70.5 years of age to donate money to their favorite charity directly from IRA accounts. Since the distribution will not be included in taxable income, individuals will not be able to claim a tax deduction for the charitable contribution.

7 Savvy Tips For Saving Money On Your Insurance

2007-01-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

Take a few moments the next time your insurance bill arrives to look it over. The Insurance Information Institute suggests taking a look at your bill and call around for comparisons. It may take a little time, but you could save big. The average family’s car and home insurance totals over $2000.00. If you could save just15%, that equates to $300 a year. Here are a few other ideas for saving some bucks on insurance:

1. Raise your deductible. Typically, insurance companies start their deductibles at $250. If you raise your deductible to $500 you would save 12%, $1,000 you would save 24%, and a deductible of $5,000 would save you 37%.

2. Purchasing your car insurance and home insurance from the same insurer will typically save you 5% to 15%.

3. Take measures to increase your security. Add dead-bolt locks, burglar alarms and fire alarms.

4. Did you know that smoking account for more than 23,000 residential fires a year? STOP SMOKING!! Some companies offer a lower premium to non smokers.

5. Find a good company and stay with them. Some companies offer discounts to policy holder that have been with them for several years. As little as six years may get you a 10% deduction.

6. At least once a year review your policy limits to the value of your possessions. Make sure any new major purchases are covered.

7. Insure your house, not your land. The land that your house sits on is not at risk for fire, wind, theft or other perils that your homeowner’s policy covers so don’t include its value in deciding how much insurance to buy.

Five Tips to Help You Cut Your Credit Card Debt

2007-01-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

Is your credit card debt consuming your life? Is there any hope of crawling out from under the heavy burden of plastic? If you are up to your gluteus in maximum credit card payment, there is hope. It is in the credit card companies to work with you on your payments. After all, they would rather see you make some payment versus no payment.
Here are a few tips to help you get a handle on you debt:

1. Make a budget and stick with it! Know what your monthly expenses really are. Don’t forget to include the cost of items that may be billed quarterly or yearly like car insurance, or life insurance. Know what these things cost you and set that money aside in an interest bearing
account until you need to pay that bill. And, NO dipping into the account for frivolous items!!

2. STOP using your credit cards. Take them out of your purse/wallet and cut them up!! Learn to live within your means. Set aside a certain amount of cash from each pay check to use as “disposable” cash. When that cash is gone, your done spending! Don’t buy things that you don’t need.

3. Contact your creditor and let them know that you are having a rough time making your payments and that you sincerely want to make an effort to keep current on your payments. Ask for a lower interest rate. Be firm in your request, it is within their power to lower your interest.

4. Make extra payment on your credit cards each month. Even a small amount will go a long way in cutting interest and years of off your bills. The same goes for your house payments, every little bit will help.

5. Live within your means! Cut out some of the “special” things you blow money on each month. Do you really need a weekly pedicure? How about that 700 calorie latte in the mornings? Instead of dinner at Morton every week, try Village Inn. Take the money that you have saved and make an extra payment on your credit cards!

Debt Consolidation, Take control of your spending

2007-01-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

This is it folks! The year 2007 is the year to take control or your spending, get your financial ducks in a row and stop living pay check to pay check.

Sounds like a great idea! How are you going to dig yourself out of that olympic size hole you have dug for yourself? Debt consolidation may be the first step in reaching for that life preserver. What are the alternatives? Bankruptcy ? (Bankruptcy will remain on your credit history for 10 to 13 years.) Continue paying the credit card companies 21% interest for the rest of your life? Winning the lotto?

If you have been treading water in an olympic size pool of charge cards and debt for years, it will take some planning and determination and probably a change of life style. Debt Consolidation might be the life preserver that will help you get a grip on your finances.

Many companies offer debt consolidation loans. To find one that you will feel comfortable working with, do a little research. Call several companies and ask to speak with the loan offices. Ask them what commissions they charge, what are the fees involved and what will the interest rate be. Let them know that you are shopping around and that you will be giving your business to the company that offers the best deal.
Remember, you are making a change to “take charge” of your finances. Don’t be bullied into signing with the first company that you call. There are many to choose from, find one that you are comfortable with and one that treats you with respect.

Now………..make that call, take the first step in climbing out of the ‘hole’!