Well here it is November, and getting our first snow. This makes the realization of Christmas not seem so far away. Am I prepared? I shudder at that thought. I am just not in the mood. Not emotionally or financially in the mood.
I am sure as the time draws closer I will get in the mood... in the mood for it to be over. I have never been much of a fan of Christmas. I don't like cold weather. It was fun when my kids were little. I just hate the commercialization.
What I do like is baking and making home made gifts. So I am sure that will be my route this year. I do have a few things that I have picked up through the year for my family members that are far away. I will mail them their Christmas goodie box the first week of December.
I will enjoy having Christmas day off of work this year... it has been many years since I have had this holiday off. So that is what I will mostly look forward too.
Well with this snow comes soup weather. I will clean out the fridge today and make some fabulous crock pot soup.
Stay Warm and have a Fabulous & Frugal day!!!!
Showing posts with label frugal life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label frugal life. Show all posts
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
What A Summer
Oh boy what a whirl wind of a summer.... In June my daughter got married, I also quit my job and of 7 years in order to start a new job with weekends and Holidays off. My Mother-in-law had a heart attack at the end of June, so that was back and forth to the hospital about 40 miles away. She is doing much better now after the surgery and recovery. In July I started my new job, still commuting and beginning to think I was too old to be starting over in a career. I have learned a lot and also a lot about myself.
I did not have empty nest syndrome for very long at all... In July my step-grandson who is 12 moved in with me. I got his room all set up in my daughter's old room. And he just settled right in. It is different taking care of a kid again.... strange how after a certain age they just become so self efficient, but so very nice.
In August my car was wrecked after a 17 year old girl ran a stop sign and just plowed right in to me. I am still working on recovery, and am in physical therapy. Car wrecks suck... not only financially, mind you my car was paid for, in super working condition, and I loved it. Well in the blink of an eye that all came to an end. I had a rental car for a week and a half. Then I drove my husbands Jeep for another week and a half. I was having such a hard time shifting the gears, I just had to go and buy another car. Come to find out through physical therapy the reason for the pain while shifting gears was dislocated ribs... that the doctor did not notice.
In September my mother-in-law had another bad spell and was pretty laid up due to a herniated disc in her back and she will be having surgery soon.
I just want you all to know that at my age it is challenging to take care of the elders and the young ones in the family along with working and trying to recover from a car accident. I am hanging in there and take one day at a time. I think as I am getting older my compassion for others is better than I ever remember it before.
I worked at my job for 2 1/2 months and now have been transferred to my home town.... no more commuting for me. I can't wait to save the gas money and put that to a much better use. I can't wait to come home for lunch. No more eating junk or fast food, and not having to pack a lunch is going to be wonderful. I am also looking forward to the free time (not driving)..... It looks like with all the changes that took place in a 4 month time period have been life altering, but I am really looking forward to these next 4 months.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
I did not have empty nest syndrome for very long at all... In July my step-grandson who is 12 moved in with me. I got his room all set up in my daughter's old room. And he just settled right in. It is different taking care of a kid again.... strange how after a certain age they just become so self efficient, but so very nice.
In August my car was wrecked after a 17 year old girl ran a stop sign and just plowed right in to me. I am still working on recovery, and am in physical therapy. Car wrecks suck... not only financially, mind you my car was paid for, in super working condition, and I loved it. Well in the blink of an eye that all came to an end. I had a rental car for a week and a half. Then I drove my husbands Jeep for another week and a half. I was having such a hard time shifting the gears, I just had to go and buy another car. Come to find out through physical therapy the reason for the pain while shifting gears was dislocated ribs... that the doctor did not notice.
In September my mother-in-law had another bad spell and was pretty laid up due to a herniated disc in her back and she will be having surgery soon.
I just want you all to know that at my age it is challenging to take care of the elders and the young ones in the family along with working and trying to recover from a car accident. I am hanging in there and take one day at a time. I think as I am getting older my compassion for others is better than I ever remember it before.
I worked at my job for 2 1/2 months and now have been transferred to my home town.... no more commuting for me. I can't wait to save the gas money and put that to a much better use. I can't wait to come home for lunch. No more eating junk or fast food, and not having to pack a lunch is going to be wonderful. I am also looking forward to the free time (not driving)..... It looks like with all the changes that took place in a 4 month time period have been life altering, but I am really looking forward to these next 4 months.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Monday, February 20, 2012
The Power of Less
I have come across a fabulous and free ebook that you can download. And I wanted to share. Happy reading
tinyurl.com/thriving-on-less
This is the road map for enjoying a happier, more simplified life.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
tinyurl.com/thriving-on-less
This is the road map for enjoying a happier, more simplified life.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Extreme Cheapskates
TLC has done it again.... I watched this show last night. Extreme Cheapskates looked at the lives of 4 families, The first guy was a dumpster diver who found wilted roses, and a tea kettle for his wife for their 25th wedding anniversary.... yes he found these "treasure's" in the dumpster. While he was at a cafe for dinner he would go around to other people's tables and ask them for their left over food. He embarrassed his wife a couple of different times.
The second family features a creative way to save on toilet paper. She makes her own toilet paper out of cloth, her clean cloth's hang right next to the toilet (in her bathroom) and her used cloth's go in a bucket right next to the toilet... she claims she never has to touch them, just picks up the bucket and dumps them in the wash machine. This lady has 6 kids and shops at a grocery outlet that deals with expired food, and that is what she feeds her kids along with salad that she picks or forages at the park.
The third story featured a couple that I am actually familiar with... Jeff Yeager has actually written a couple of books. The Cheapskate Next Door (and I cannot remember the other one right now.) At various times during the year he goes on a fiscal fast, where he spends absolutely no money for the entire week. At least not his money... he does scrounge around for loose change in couch cushions, phone booths, and laundry mats. Jeff did some bargaining with a butcher for a couple of goat heads that he cooked for he and his wife for dinner. Jeff was very funny and entertaining... I enjoyed his take on frugality.
The last story featured a young man who bartered for different things... he recited poetry at a donut shop for a donut and coffee, and helped out his friend with bartering who was putting together an engagement party. He also worked by taking out trash and sweeping at a barber shop so that he could get his hair cut. Very creative ways to work for things that you need.
This show was completely entertaining and gives a whole new meaning for the definition of Cheapskate.... It was an extreme look at outrageous ways to save a dollar....AND after watching this show, my kids no longer think of me as a cheapskate....
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
The second family features a creative way to save on toilet paper. She makes her own toilet paper out of cloth, her clean cloth's hang right next to the toilet (in her bathroom) and her used cloth's go in a bucket right next to the toilet... she claims she never has to touch them, just picks up the bucket and dumps them in the wash machine. This lady has 6 kids and shops at a grocery outlet that deals with expired food, and that is what she feeds her kids along with salad that she picks or forages at the park.
The third story featured a couple that I am actually familiar with... Jeff Yeager has actually written a couple of books. The Cheapskate Next Door (and I cannot remember the other one right now.) At various times during the year he goes on a fiscal fast, where he spends absolutely no money for the entire week. At least not his money... he does scrounge around for loose change in couch cushions, phone booths, and laundry mats. Jeff did some bargaining with a butcher for a couple of goat heads that he cooked for he and his wife for dinner. Jeff was very funny and entertaining... I enjoyed his take on frugality.
The last story featured a young man who bartered for different things... he recited poetry at a donut shop for a donut and coffee, and helped out his friend with bartering who was putting together an engagement party. He also worked by taking out trash and sweeping at a barber shop so that he could get his hair cut. Very creative ways to work for things that you need.
This show was completely entertaining and gives a whole new meaning for the definition of Cheapskate.... It was an extreme look at outrageous ways to save a dollar....AND after watching this show, my kids no longer think of me as a cheapskate....
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Homemade Dishwasher Soap
Happy New Year!!! My goals are to pay off debt and live as frugally as possible. I am also going to add to my Emergency fund this year. What are your goals or resolutions for this year?
Here is a recipe I found for Dishwasher soap... I will be making up a batch of this and giving it a try.
Homemade Dishwasher Soap
I make my own soap by using 1/2 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda and 1/2 cup Borax 20 Mule Team. I use about 2 tablespoons in the dishwasher compartment. I've also added Citric Acid (from either canning products or tang) if needed. To tell if Citric Acid is needed, look at your silverware. If it seem to be a little gray then check your dishwasher book and it will tell you what to add and how much. My silverware has actually been sparklier with this than the expensive dishwasher tabs.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!!
Here is a recipe I found for Dishwasher soap... I will be making up a batch of this and giving it a try.
Homemade Dishwasher Soap
I make my own soap by using 1/2 cup Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda and 1/2 cup Borax 20 Mule Team. I use about 2 tablespoons in the dishwasher compartment. I've also added Citric Acid (from either canning products or tang) if needed. To tell if Citric Acid is needed, look at your silverware. If it seem to be a little gray then check your dishwasher book and it will tell you what to add and how much. My silverware has actually been sparklier with this than the expensive dishwasher tabs.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Car Troubles in Cold Weather
This is a fantastic article found at teh Lesley Voth site... a must read for everyone who lives in cold weather
http://simplyfantasticbooks.com/2011/12/22/car-got-the-cold-weather-blues/
Car Got The Cold Weather Blues?
by lesleyvoth
I am not a lover of cold weather and in some cases your car feels the same.
It does not really matter how well maintained your vehicle is kept, there are times when it is very temperamental and does not want to start. This has happened to me many times over time.
Here are some tips if you turn the key in your car and nothing happens.
1. Take a deep breath - Relax. You are not going to make it in time to wherever you are going. Get used to that idea. That's ok, there could be lots of reasons for that. Some people have missed a plane crash because they could not get to the airport on time. So tell yourself it could be a good thing. Now that you are feeling better lets look at the more practical things that could help your situation
2. When you turn the key - It just clicks or nothing then most likely in the cold weather it will be the battery.
3. Did you leave the lights on? - The inside light left on will flatten a not so healthy battery by morning. Left the headlights on? Yes that will do it.
4. Battery connections - Give the battery connections a wiggle. Loose? Get out the screwdriver and tighten the connection. Give the key another turn, see if that will do the trick.
5. Corroded connection - Check for corrosion on the connection. If it looks like it could be, give it a light brushing to clean it up. Try to start it again.
6. Jump Start - Not all vehicles can be jumped started. Read your owner's manual, first. Your manufacturer may advise against jump starting a vehicle due to sensitive electronic circuitry.
7. Frozen Battery - Don't try to jump-start it while it is frozen
8. Check Battery - If you see that it is cracked or leaking Do Not try to jump-start it. You need to go buy a new one or get a tow truck to take your car to a repair shop.
9. Dry battery - Check to see if the battery has fluid inside. If it is dry then you will have to fill it to the fluid levels. There is a caution here though as batteries usually need pure clean water. You need to check with your manual.
10. Sparking connections - If you are jump starting the vehicle make sure the hook up clamps do not touch. You could have a fireworks display that could be a bit scary
11. Tow Truck - Still not able to start it then you may have a more serious problem like a bad starter or alternator. I think you are going to need a tow truck.
THE CAR CRANKS BUT DOES NOT START
If the starter turns, but the engine won't start, the problem can be much harder to diagnose. One common problem is a frozen fuel line. In the winter, be sure to always keep your fuel tank half full. If water accumulates in your fuel line, the condensation will freeze and your car won't start. If you've been driving in wet conditions or deep snow, wet spark plugs or other engine components can prevent your car from starting.
Here are some items you should always carry in your car in case of emergencies
Jumpstart cables - the longer the better
Jumpstart Gloves - protect hands from acid
Flashlight - a must in any car
Paper Coveralls - inexpensive and will protect your clothes
Jumpstart manual - a must read before you attempt to jumpstart any car
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!! As well as a Merry Christmas!!!
http://simplyfantasticbooks.com/2011/12/22/car-got-the-cold-weather-blues/
Car Got The Cold Weather Blues?
by lesleyvoth
I am not a lover of cold weather and in some cases your car feels the same.
It does not really matter how well maintained your vehicle is kept, there are times when it is very temperamental and does not want to start. This has happened to me many times over time.
Here are some tips if you turn the key in your car and nothing happens.
1. Take a deep breath - Relax. You are not going to make it in time to wherever you are going. Get used to that idea. That's ok, there could be lots of reasons for that. Some people have missed a plane crash because they could not get to the airport on time. So tell yourself it could be a good thing. Now that you are feeling better lets look at the more practical things that could help your situation
2. When you turn the key - It just clicks or nothing then most likely in the cold weather it will be the battery.
3. Did you leave the lights on? - The inside light left on will flatten a not so healthy battery by morning. Left the headlights on? Yes that will do it.
4. Battery connections - Give the battery connections a wiggle. Loose? Get out the screwdriver and tighten the connection. Give the key another turn, see if that will do the trick.
5. Corroded connection - Check for corrosion on the connection. If it looks like it could be, give it a light brushing to clean it up. Try to start it again.
6. Jump Start - Not all vehicles can be jumped started. Read your owner's manual, first. Your manufacturer may advise against jump starting a vehicle due to sensitive electronic circuitry.
7. Frozen Battery - Don't try to jump-start it while it is frozen
8. Check Battery - If you see that it is cracked or leaking Do Not try to jump-start it. You need to go buy a new one or get a tow truck to take your car to a repair shop.
9. Dry battery - Check to see if the battery has fluid inside. If it is dry then you will have to fill it to the fluid levels. There is a caution here though as batteries usually need pure clean water. You need to check with your manual.
10. Sparking connections - If you are jump starting the vehicle make sure the hook up clamps do not touch. You could have a fireworks display that could be a bit scary
11. Tow Truck - Still not able to start it then you may have a more serious problem like a bad starter or alternator. I think you are going to need a tow truck.
THE CAR CRANKS BUT DOES NOT START
If the starter turns, but the engine won't start, the problem can be much harder to diagnose. One common problem is a frozen fuel line. In the winter, be sure to always keep your fuel tank half full. If water accumulates in your fuel line, the condensation will freeze and your car won't start. If you've been driving in wet conditions or deep snow, wet spark plugs or other engine components can prevent your car from starting.
Here are some items you should always carry in your car in case of emergencies
Jumpstart cables - the longer the better
Jumpstart Gloves - protect hands from acid
Flashlight - a must in any car
Paper Coveralls - inexpensive and will protect your clothes
Jumpstart manual - a must read before you attempt to jumpstart any car
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!! As well as a Merry Christmas!!!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Thanksgiving And Left Overs
I just really love Thanksgiving it is one of my favorite holidays. I also love the 4th of July. Anyway back to what I really love about Thanksgiving is the food, and the family. It is a time of eating and sharing company with others. No stress about presents yet. I love cooking once and eating for days to come. I love being thankful and showing my appreciation to my family.
I love my family so much that today I made split pea and ham soup, out of the ham left overs and what was left on the veggie tray. The ham bone still has enough fat on it that I stuck it in the freezer to make with beans in the weeks to come.
In have not had to eat out all week, I have had turkey, turkey sandwiches, ham, ham sandwiches, stuffing, fruit salad, jello salad..... my daughter ate all the mashed potatoes and green bean bake, but that is fine with me.
I made 5 pans of cinnamon rolls and took them to work on Thanksgiving day to share with the poor souls working the holiday. They were a big hit, there were not any left the next day when I got to work.
I am Thankful for my family and friends.... I am thankful for my job, and thankful I have learned how to budget, pay off debt, and build an emergency fund. I am thankful for my house and the great neighborhood in which I live. I am thankful that I live in a wonderful country.... and most of all this year I am thankful that my son is home safe from Iraq.
I hope each and everyone of you had a wonderful holiday.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
I love my family so much that today I made split pea and ham soup, out of the ham left overs and what was left on the veggie tray. The ham bone still has enough fat on it that I stuck it in the freezer to make with beans in the weeks to come.
In have not had to eat out all week, I have had turkey, turkey sandwiches, ham, ham sandwiches, stuffing, fruit salad, jello salad..... my daughter ate all the mashed potatoes and green bean bake, but that is fine with me.
I made 5 pans of cinnamon rolls and took them to work on Thanksgiving day to share with the poor souls working the holiday. They were a big hit, there were not any left the next day when I got to work.
I am Thankful for my family and friends.... I am thankful for my job, and thankful I have learned how to budget, pay off debt, and build an emergency fund. I am thankful for my house and the great neighborhood in which I live. I am thankful that I live in a wonderful country.... and most of all this year I am thankful that my son is home safe from Iraq.
I hope each and everyone of you had a wonderful holiday.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Boots and Scarfs
I survived Halloween, 136 trick-or-treaters at my house. I spent 82.00 total on candy and goodies and that was with sales and tons of coupons. I have noticed that the packages are much smaller with fewer goodies in them. Makes me wonder if I will even keep my porch light on next year. Yes it is fun, and it is cool to see all the kids dressed up but it is sooooooo expensive.
The weather has turned cold here now and we are just waiting for snow, 41 degrees this afternoon on my way to work. I broke out my boots, and scarf's. There is just no point in being cold.
I have really been watching extreme couponing, and the reruns, trying to learn all the tricks and secrets, for maximizing my cash flow in order to pay off some more debt. Bad news at my job too, we don't know how much longer we will be here. Other entities no longer want (or can afford) to pay for technology and service so no telling how much longer I will be employed.
It is okay though, my plan is to keep paying those bills to the fullest possible potential.... I just paid off the IRS this month and that was a great feeling, It will give me an extra 150 bucks a month to pay on something else.
I keep reading my frugal books, cooking at home, packing my lunch for work, and hanging in there.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
The weather has turned cold here now and we are just waiting for snow, 41 degrees this afternoon on my way to work. I broke out my boots, and scarf's. There is just no point in being cold.
I have really been watching extreme couponing, and the reruns, trying to learn all the tricks and secrets, for maximizing my cash flow in order to pay off some more debt. Bad news at my job too, we don't know how much longer we will be here. Other entities no longer want (or can afford) to pay for technology and service so no telling how much longer I will be employed.
It is okay though, my plan is to keep paying those bills to the fullest possible potential.... I just paid off the IRS this month and that was a great feeling, It will give me an extra 150 bucks a month to pay on something else.
I keep reading my frugal books, cooking at home, packing my lunch for work, and hanging in there.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
One Paycheck Away From Financial Ruin
I have been following the Occupy Wall Street protesters as well as the various other Occupy protests that are taking place not only in The United States but England and Australia as well. I feel for the protesters, they are standing up for all of us. While I do not support any violence on the protesters or law enforcements behalf's, I do think the protesters are on to something. Most of those Americans are really struggling trying to make ends meet, unable to pay for mortgages, credit card interest sky high, medical bills mounting, unable to pay for student loans. Trying to choose between paying the rent or buying groceries. The list just goes on and on and on. Not to mention, the folks who are unemployed and cannot find work, and then there are the ones that are working who can barely keep their heads above water... and those ever disappearing retirement funds, as well as all those tax increases. And... I am sue that I have missed some of the issues, but you get the idea here... Americans are completely fed up with the government and the wealthy that are controlling everything and not being held accountable for anything.
I also feel frustrated at times. It seems like you work your tail off, you pay taxes, and at the end of the year you owe more taxes. You pay off credit card debt, only to have unexpected medical bills and have to use those damn credit cards to get you by till payday. Hey, I have been there.
About a year and 1/2 ago, almost 2 years ago, I decided that I did not want to live this way anymore and really did want to retire at some point... however, my retirement funds are not co-operating at the moment.
I stopped living above my means. I stopped carrying my credit cards. I do not even have them in my purse. I have paid off 2 credit cards, paid off my car, and am still driving the car. I try and put 10% of my paycheck in savings every month...that does not always work out for me, but even 5% is better than nothing. I will not shop for food without coupons. My motto used to be if I don't have a coupon for it I won't buy it... My new motto is... IF I DO NOT HAVE A COUPON AND IT IS NOT ON SALE...IT DOES NOT GO IN THE SHOPPING CART.
I cash in cans and bottles, I have a garden, I home can veggies from my garden. Reading is my favorite past time... I do not hang out at the mall or any other expensive places. I do not buy the latest electronics, or the fashions of the week. I have completely adopted the frugal lifestyle and mostly out of necessity but also because I really do not want to work until I am Seventy.
I stand behind the protesters, but I also believe that you have to help yourself and take accountability for yourself. Learn how to manage your money, how to save your money and how to budget. Trust me your life will get better. It is not easy...but it truly is rewarding.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
I also feel frustrated at times. It seems like you work your tail off, you pay taxes, and at the end of the year you owe more taxes. You pay off credit card debt, only to have unexpected medical bills and have to use those damn credit cards to get you by till payday. Hey, I have been there.
About a year and 1/2 ago, almost 2 years ago, I decided that I did not want to live this way anymore and really did want to retire at some point... however, my retirement funds are not co-operating at the moment.
I stopped living above my means. I stopped carrying my credit cards. I do not even have them in my purse. I have paid off 2 credit cards, paid off my car, and am still driving the car. I try and put 10% of my paycheck in savings every month...that does not always work out for me, but even 5% is better than nothing. I will not shop for food without coupons. My motto used to be if I don't have a coupon for it I won't buy it... My new motto is... IF I DO NOT HAVE A COUPON AND IT IS NOT ON SALE...IT DOES NOT GO IN THE SHOPPING CART.
I cash in cans and bottles, I have a garden, I home can veggies from my garden. Reading is my favorite past time... I do not hang out at the mall or any other expensive places. I do not buy the latest electronics, or the fashions of the week. I have completely adopted the frugal lifestyle and mostly out of necessity but also because I really do not want to work until I am Seventy.
I stand behind the protesters, but I also believe that you have to help yourself and take accountability for yourself. Learn how to manage your money, how to save your money and how to budget. Trust me your life will get better. It is not easy...but it truly is rewarding.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Tomatoes, Tomatoes!!!!
I totally had to re-post "The Joys of Tomatoes" I seem to once again have an over abundance which is leaving me with tomato sandwiches everyday. I am not complaining, I love love love them... and the ones at the store are never as good. I will probably be making a batch of salsa this weekend.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
No Easy Way To Save Money
Lets face it... There is no easy or painless way to save money. In order to save, you are literally doing without, and making sacrifices. I save my change, and I put a little money away each month, sometimes it is only 50 dollars. I keep telling myself that this little by little savings attempt is going to change my life. Last month I got a surprise orthodontist bill. My daughter was due to get her braces off, and I had just paid off the last 1200 dollars that I owed in February. So imagine my surprise when I got a bill for 879 more dollars. They were for the retainers and must be paid in full or they would not be removing the braces. I picked my jaw up off the floor and went to change my pants.
At first I was shocked, and then mad. But what can you do? I gathered my wits, and came up with the idea to have a yard sale, I needed to get rid of some crap anyway, might as well make some money. I cried and whined to my working daughter and asked for help paying the bill which netted me 255 dollars toward the payment. I made 170 dollars at the yard sale, it was an impromptu yard sale, one day no advertising, so that was not so bad. I used my insurance reimbursement check to the tune of about 230 dollars.... and took all the rest out of my savings account.
I was thrilled with my creative money endeavors, but extremely sad to take money out of my precious savings account.
When I took the money to the billing office at the Orthodontist... I told them that they needed to take me out to dinner.
I am relieved and happy to have this terrible bill out of my way~ forever by the way, my daughters braces are off and she has a beautiful smile. I just have to get back to cutting back and doing without, so that I can replace that money in my savings account.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
At first I was shocked, and then mad. But what can you do? I gathered my wits, and came up with the idea to have a yard sale, I needed to get rid of some crap anyway, might as well make some money. I cried and whined to my working daughter and asked for help paying the bill which netted me 255 dollars toward the payment. I made 170 dollars at the yard sale, it was an impromptu yard sale, one day no advertising, so that was not so bad. I used my insurance reimbursement check to the tune of about 230 dollars.... and took all the rest out of my savings account.
I was thrilled with my creative money endeavors, but extremely sad to take money out of my precious savings account.
When I took the money to the billing office at the Orthodontist... I told them that they needed to take me out to dinner.
I am relieved and happy to have this terrible bill out of my way~ forever by the way, my daughters braces are off and she has a beautiful smile. I just have to get back to cutting back and doing without, so that I can replace that money in my savings account.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The Money Class
Last night on OPB (Oregon Public Broadcasting) I caught Suze Orman, it was The Money Class. In this program Suze unveils new and powerful advice to help us get through these tough economic times. The Motto of the show was to "Live Below Your Means but within Your Needs" This is the "New American Dream." The Focus is all about you, and I do mean all about you..... Not about stuff.
Suze explained real estate, owning it and renting it. She talked about not giving your kids an allowance, she has another strategy. The other topics covered in depth are home, family, career and retirement.
Suze also has a new book out called "The Money Class" and during the show you could also purchase kits, and other literature that she put together to help you with wills, living trusts, and anything legal.
Suze's advice will bore some of the more advanced financial pioneers, but if you are just starting out, learning to save and control your spending, or have no financial background, then Suze will teach you basic finance and how to effectively save money. I love how she talks about Credit Card Interest Rates..... It is such an eye opener every time I hear it, and I have been working on paying off my Credit Cards for about 2 years now. Paying Off your Credit Cards requires patience and diligence, and you will not get results over night, unless you have won the lottery.
I highly recommend reading and watching Suze especially if you are just starting out. My only recommendation is that you buy her books used.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Suze explained real estate, owning it and renting it. She talked about not giving your kids an allowance, she has another strategy. The other topics covered in depth are home, family, career and retirement.
Suze also has a new book out called "The Money Class" and during the show you could also purchase kits, and other literature that she put together to help you with wills, living trusts, and anything legal.
Suze's advice will bore some of the more advanced financial pioneers, but if you are just starting out, learning to save and control your spending, or have no financial background, then Suze will teach you basic finance and how to effectively save money. I love how she talks about Credit Card Interest Rates..... It is such an eye opener every time I hear it, and I have been working on paying off my Credit Cards for about 2 years now. Paying Off your Credit Cards requires patience and diligence, and you will not get results over night, unless you have won the lottery.
I highly recommend reading and watching Suze especially if you are just starting out. My only recommendation is that you buy her books used.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
25 Uses For Coffee Filters
I found this information over at econobusters.com
Very useful information for saving money, and utilizing what you have on hand.
1. Cover bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave. Coffee filters make excellent covers.
3. Protect China by separating your good dishes with a coffee filter between each dish.
4. Filter broken cork from wine. If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.
5. Protect a cast-iron skillet. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
6. Apply shoe polish. Ball up a lint-free coffee filter.
7. Recycle frying oil. After frying, strain oil through a sieve lined with a coffee filter.
8. Weigh chopped foods. Place chopped ingredients in a coffee filter on a kitchen scale.
9. Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.
10 Stop the soil from leaking out of a plant pot. Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes.
11. Prevent a Popsicle from dripping. Poke one or two holes as needed in a coffee filter.
12. Do you think we used expensive strips to wax eyebrows? Use strips of coffee filters.
13. Put a few in a plate and put your fried bacon, French fries, chicken fingers, etc on them. It soaks out all the grease.
14. Keep in the bathroom. They make great “razor nick fixers.”
15. As a sewing backing. Use a filter as an easy-to-tear backing for embroidering or appliqueing soft fabrics.
16. Put baking soda into a coffee filter and insert into shoes or a closet to absorb or prevent odors.
17. Use them to strain soup stock and to tie fresh herbs in to put in soups and stews.
18 Use a coffee filter to prevent spilling when you add fluids to your car.
19. Use them as a spoon rest while cooking and clean up small counter spills.
20. Can use to hold dry ingredients when baking or when cutting a piece of fruit or veggies. Saves on having extra bowls to wash.
21. Use them to wrap Christmas ornaments for storage.
22. Use them to remove fingernail polish when out of cotton balls.
23. Use them to sprout seeds. Simply dampen the coffee filter, place seeds inside, fold it and place it into a zip-lock plastic bag until they sprout.
24. Use coffee filters as blotting paper for pressed flowers. Place the flowers between two coffee filters and put the coffee filters in phone book.
25. Use as a disposable “snack bowl” for popcorn, chips, etc.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal day!!!!
Very useful information for saving money, and utilizing what you have on hand.
1. Cover bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave. Coffee filters make excellent covers.
3. Protect China by separating your good dishes with a coffee filter between each dish.
4. Filter broken cork from wine. If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.
5. Protect a cast-iron skillet. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
6. Apply shoe polish. Ball up a lint-free coffee filter.
7. Recycle frying oil. After frying, strain oil through a sieve lined with a coffee filter.
8. Weigh chopped foods. Place chopped ingredients in a coffee filter on a kitchen scale.
9. Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.
10 Stop the soil from leaking out of a plant pot. Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes.
11. Prevent a Popsicle from dripping. Poke one or two holes as needed in a coffee filter.
12. Do you think we used expensive strips to wax eyebrows? Use strips of coffee filters.
13. Put a few in a plate and put your fried bacon, French fries, chicken fingers, etc on them. It soaks out all the grease.
14. Keep in the bathroom. They make great “razor nick fixers.”
15. As a sewing backing. Use a filter as an easy-to-tear backing for embroidering or appliqueing soft fabrics.
16. Put baking soda into a coffee filter and insert into shoes or a closet to absorb or prevent odors.
17. Use them to strain soup stock and to tie fresh herbs in to put in soups and stews.
18 Use a coffee filter to prevent spilling when you add fluids to your car.
19. Use them as a spoon rest while cooking and clean up small counter spills.
20. Can use to hold dry ingredients when baking or when cutting a piece of fruit or veggies. Saves on having extra bowls to wash.
21. Use them to wrap Christmas ornaments for storage.
22. Use them to remove fingernail polish when out of cotton balls.
23. Use them to sprout seeds. Simply dampen the coffee filter, place seeds inside, fold it and place it into a zip-lock plastic bag until they sprout.
24. Use coffee filters as blotting paper for pressed flowers. Place the flowers between two coffee filters and put the coffee filters in phone book.
25. Use as a disposable “snack bowl” for popcorn, chips, etc.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal day!!!!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Saving Even More Money
I am saving even more money by removing temptations from my daily grind. I do not go to the mall just to hang out. I am now meeting my girlfriends for coffee at either my house or their house. When those fabulous catalogs come in the mail from Victoria's Secret and Lands End.... I use them as fire starters. I do not even open them or glance at the pages. When we get the Sunday paper.... I only look at the weekly grocery ads, and of course the coupons. I throw the ads to Fred Meyer, Target, and Best Buy into my paper bin for fire starter. I have a new philosophy with impulse shopping, as well as just shopping in general or shopping for a past time. I do not believe in retail therapy. I feel that if I do not see it, I will not miss it. The other conclusion that I have come to is..... every time I leave my house it costs money, at the very least it will cost the gas to drive somewhere.
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
The Depressing Work Environment
I agree with all of you... Yes, the economy is bleak at best, but there are things that you can do, to make it better, make it fun, and make it not so depressing. Yesterday was payday, and I happen to work for a County Government Office that pays the employees on the last working day of the month. Yes, it is darn hard (sometimes) to stretch it out and make it last, but after 5 years, I have become quite the pro at stretching a dollar. Topic of conversations at work included one of my co-workers complaining that she barely makes enough money to pay her bills, there is no way possible she could even stick 20 dollars in a savings account because it takes every dime she makes. This coming from the same person who eats McDonald's daily, is an animal hoarder, gets acrylic nails and manicures a couple of times a month, has the most current cell phone with the Internet plan, And is forever calling her mom while at work to send her money for odds and ends. I know there is no use talking about saving money with someone like that, I have tried. I get shot down in flames.
I am not trying to pass judgement here..... It is just hard to listen to all of the complaining and negativity when there are things people can do to make life less expensive and put something away in savings. Heck I started my savings plan with 5 dollars a week. I think the world is full of complainers, and I am glad I am pro-active and getting my debt paid off and saving as much as I can. I do know that I am more appreciative of the little things and the free things in life. It really is all about perspective. What are you willing to do to improve your financial situation?
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!!
I am not trying to pass judgement here..... It is just hard to listen to all of the complaining and negativity when there are things people can do to make life less expensive and put something away in savings. Heck I started my savings plan with 5 dollars a week. I think the world is full of complainers, and I am glad I am pro-active and getting my debt paid off and saving as much as I can. I do know that I am more appreciative of the little things and the free things in life. It really is all about perspective. What are you willing to do to improve your financial situation?
Have a Fabulous & Frugal Day!!!!!
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