Literally! I will be on a long weekend, fishing, canoeing, camping and relaxing until June 17th!
See ya then!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
20 Fun Things To Do With Your Kids
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.
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.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Wise Spending
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.
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.
Monday, June 9, 2008
15 Ways To Multi Task Your Toothpaste And Save
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!!!
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!!!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Healthy, Homemade, Low Cost Popsicles
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!!
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!!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Deal or No Deal
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.
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.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Recycle Soap Silvers
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!
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!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Cute Ideas to Help Small Children Learn to Save
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.
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.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Make My Day!
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.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Don’t "Flush” Your Money Down The Drain
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.
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.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Make Your Own Fun and Save!
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!
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!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Is the cost of fresh milk, “Milking” your grocery budget?
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.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
FISCAL FITNESS
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!
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!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
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!!
Monday, May 12, 2008
Dryer Sheets, Not Just For Dryers
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!
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!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Friday, May 9, 2008
Eat Out Without Sabotaging Your Budget!!
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!
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!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
3 Yummy Meals Under $10.00
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.
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.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
When is Cheap Too Cheap?
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.
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!!
Monday, May 5, 2008
I Won't Tell Anyone That They're Fake!
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!!
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!!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Save On Hair Cuts
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
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
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Cleaning Supplies You Can Afford!
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!
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!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Eliminate Your Electic Bill? Too Good to be True?
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.
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.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Free Recreation Verses Expensive Entertainment
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.
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.
Friday, April 25, 2008
15 Gas Saving Tips
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.
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.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Free Magazine Subscriptions
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?
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?
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Save a Little, Save a Lot!
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.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Postage is Going Up, But You Can Still Save
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!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Simple Tips for Saving Money in the Kitchen
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!
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!
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Tax Day!
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?
I'd love to hear what you are going to do with your rebate money?
Monday, April 14, 2008
How to “Meet” Your Grocery Budget
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!
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!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Rub-A-Dub, Dub, Too Much Soap in the Tub
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.
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.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Family Meals for Under $10.00
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.
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.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
A Hairy Situation!
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.
Lathering up from bar soap will work too. However, shampoos and conditioners will not dry out your skin like bar soap.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Don’t Be Lazy, SAVE!
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.
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.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Free Candy Samples!
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
Click the link and sign up for a free candy sample!!
http://mommymadecandy.bravehost.com/sample.html
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
A load of dishes or a postaga stamp? Which is cheaper??
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.
Monday, February 18, 2008
What's In YOUR Sock Drawer?
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.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Are you a tax “Do-it-Yourselfer?
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.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Are You A Conscious Spender?
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.
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.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Stale Crackers?
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.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Smart Snacks
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!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Smart Ways To Spend Your Rebate!
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.
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.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Books, Never Buy Them New!
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!!
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!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Learn How To Haggle
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.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Freecycle.org
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.
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.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Is it wise to splurge on skin cream?
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Terrific Facial Toner
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.
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.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Are You Spending Too Much On Oil Changes?
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.
Evaluate your driving pattern to determine if you are a “Normal” or “severe” driver and then change your oil accordingly.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
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