How to make your own seed tape

This makes a great, inexpensive gift for gardeners....and it is so easy it is something you could do with grade schoolers.



http://video.about.com/gardening/How-to-Make-Seed-Tape.htm

Making Paper Pots to plant seeds in

A cheap and inexpensive way to make paper pots to start seeds.

Chicken Souvlaki

Easy Summer Recipes for Entertaining

Homemade Dry Mix - Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Ranch Dressing... who doesn't love it? Seems it is America's favorite dressing. Not only do I use it for salad dressing, I cook with it - use it for dips, entrees, appetizers and bread. I prefer the dry mix over the ready made ranch dressing and I've watched the cost climb over the years.

Here is a recipe to make your own (dry) homemade buttermilk ranch dressing mix and keep a few nickles in your pocket.

Do-It-Yourself Laundry Detergent

I always buy the cheapest laundry detergent... I've never bought into the claims the detergents make - I tried Tide once, thinking I was getting the Cadillac of laundry detergent.... instead I found my clothes were not cleaner....

This article gives you options to make your own laundry detergent ---

Savings are just a click away... CLICK HERE

Urawaza Tips

How to fix "Puppy Potty Spots" in your yard - getting it green again

I'm not sure this is cheaper than grass seed  and it may just make a good experiment but here goes....

From lifehacker

How to make the grass green again


Dilemma: You got a new puppy, and now your once beautifully green lawn has bare brown patches all over it from dog pee.

Solution: Pour some beer on the problem areas, making sure the foam's covering all the naked spots. The grass will be greener in no time.

Why this works: Beer has fermented sugars in it, which can act as natural fertilizer. The dying grass will feed on these sugars, detrimental fungi will die, and your lawn will start looking normal again.

Cleaning up broken raw egg

Use a piece of bread to clean it up... it will cling to the bread

How to get rid of surface splinters

This comes from an email but I think they found this tip on lifehackers.

Have you ever had several  little splinters in your hands and arms from grabbing a rough piece of wood or a running your hand across an old picnic table, etc?  They are tiny and hard to see and grasp....here's a way to get rid of them without having to pluck each and every one out with tweezers.

Grab the bottle of elmers glue or better yet, one of those little tubs of thick white glue and smear it all over the problem area. Once it dries, peel it off, just the way you used to when you were a bored little kid in arts-and-crafts class. The splinters will come right out along with the peeling glue!

Why this works: Surface splinters are hard to get out not because they're deeply embedded but because they're tiny and hard to grasp even with the daintiest of fingers. The sticky glue serves a function similar to a lint roller when the glue is applied evenly across the splintery surface of your skin.

How to stop a crying baby

he secret to stop a crying baby lies in making the sound you produce during the mouthfeel stage of wine tasting- otherwise known as "sloshing it around in your mouth"

Why this works: When babies are still in the womb, the noises they can hear are limited to those in the 6000-8000mHz range. The sound you make when you slosh the liquid behind your lips during wine tasting takes place at about 7000mHz, reminding the baby of a time when the world around was peaceful and the whirs and stirs inside Mommy's tummy soothed him back to a sleepy state.

Don't have a document shredder? Try this simple fix

Stuff incriminating documents in a stocking and toss them in the washing machine

Cleaning Up Broken Glass

When I break a glass in the kitchen, I don't use my vacuum cleaner to clean it up; I use a slice of bread -  yes, bread.... put the bread on top of the broken glass and press... it will cling to it.

Average US Wedding costs $28,000 - Can you imagine that?

Me neither!!! 

Being a long-time penny pincher, I cringe at what people spend for their special day. My own wedding, in 1983 was done very frugally.... my dress was a splurge...$800 - my bridesmaids were my two sisters and we had the dresses made by a seamstress in our small town... material was purchased on closeout for  $3 a yard.

We rented mums for the table decorations .... and that was all we did at the reception......it didn't look like a mini-prom.... it looked like a nice room at the Elk's lodge with a dinner and dancing.

This link addresses ways to save money on a wedding.....

http://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/blog/the-28000-question-why-are-we-all-hypocrites-about-weddings/

How to save $$$$ on Student Loans and financial aid

This site speaks about ways to finance college education 

http://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/blog/student-loans-financial-aid-save-money/

An easy way to save money - ink jet

Something as simple as changing your everyday font to Century Gothic that consumes less ink can save you money, especially if you print a lot.

Read the entire article here.

Rustic Cake Stand

Awesome Folding Paper Lanterns DIY CHEAP

Another GREAT idea from DollarStoreCrafts
I'm telling you, you'll LOVE her site!

Look how elegant these wineglass candleholders are

This photo is from one of my FAVORITE SITES - DollarStoreCrafts.... Click here, you'll love her creativity - all from the Dollar STORE!!!  If you do your own creations, send her your photos and info, she'll share it with the rest of her.  Seriously, you MUST bookmark her site or subscribe!

Jill Cataldo explains SUPER COUPONING

Learn the coupon secrets of the pros with Jill Cataldo's Super-Couponing and never shop the same way again! Learn how to maximize your grocery savings and purchase hundreds of dollars worth of groceries, learn what is the best thing to buy with your coupons - often the smaller package is the better deal.

Jill also talks about stockpiling -  buying good deals with coupons. 
Don't overlook "Catalina deals" - remember those numbers are pre-coupons.

Coupon Lingo Explained for Super Shopping

From: grocerygurus -November 30, 2009
This tutorial will get you familiar with most of the coupon jargon that is used on the blogs, resource sites, coupon sites and in guru texting. For more information on saving 60% or more on your grocery bill, collecting and organizing your coupons, click other "Coupons 101" Links.

Coupon Definitions:


Inserts found in the Newspaper

RP=Red Plum, SS=SmartSource,

PG=Proctor and Gamble

GM=General Mills,

AY=All You Mag

ECB=ExtraCareBucks(CVS), RR=Register Rewards(coupon that prints from the register (Walgreens), Mfr= Manufacturer's coupon,

ESR= Easy Saver Rebate(Walgreens),

SCR=Single Check Rebates (Rite Aid), FAR=Free After Rebate,

BOGO B1G1= Buy 1 Get 1 Free,

OOP= Out of Pocket,

MIR= mail in rebate

Walmart's Wonderful "ALL YOU" Magazine

Add this magazine to your coupon "Must Haves".... you buy it in Walmart - 

Introduction to Couponing - VIDEO

Introduction to Couponing by Jenny, who blogs at SouthernSavers.com. This is a three part series and a great introduction to couponing if you are just getting started!





Part 2





Part 3
Does your store double coupons?  If so, are their limits?

STACKING COUPONS - when you use a store coupon with the manufacturers coupon.
Most stores allow store coupons to be used with manufacturers coupons... even Target - if they tell you they can't do that - ask for a copy of the stores coupon policy.  Buying an item on sale and using coupon stacking is the best way to save money... save even more if you can stack coupons on a buy one - get one deal.

Buy one or get one deals - Do you need to buy one to get the special price?  If so, get the second item.

Price Matching - most grocery stores don't do it....  Walmart will not price match a buy one get one deal  nor will they price match a price that is advertised by a store that has customer loyalty card.

Walmart and Target price match but they never double couples.

Most stores allow competitors coupons? Ask what their policy is... it may be only on a few items.

How to feed a big guy for under $25 a week

Cheap Healthy Good - One Man Several Meals

Tomato and Mushroom Focaccia

1	tablespoon olive oil
6	oz fresh crimini mushrooms, sliced
1	focaccia bread (10 to 12 inch)
1	cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 oz)
1	can (14.5 oz) Muir Glen® organic diced tomatoes, drained
2	to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

	Print these coupons...
	About Concordance™

1.	Heat oven to 350°F. In 8-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms; cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender. Drain if necessary.
2.	On ungreased cookie sheet, place bread. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of the cheese on bread. Top with mushrooms and tomatoes. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese.
3.	Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is hot. Sprinkle with basil.
High Altitude (3500-6500 ft): Heat oven to 375°F.

Look for focaccia, a flat Italian bread, in the bakery section. Choose a plain focaccia or one flavored with garlic or Parmesan.
Serve-With
Italian bread as an appetizer or as a side to a large tossed salad.

Simple 10 Minute Bruschetta

1 can (14.5 oz) Muir Glen® organic diced tomatoes, drained ( or fresh Roma tomatoes)


2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

16 slices (1/2 inch thick) baguette (about 6 oz), toasted

1. In medium bowl, mix tomatoes, basil, olive oil and garlic.

2. Spoon mixture onto toasted bread slices. Serve immediately.

High Altitude (3500-6500 ft): No change.
 
Notes:
Of course bruschetta would taste better with fresh tomatoes but since this is an easy fast recipe I thought the canned ones worked just fine. Just drain them as much as possible so not runny. I added a little mozzarella cheese to the tops and baked until melted. I will definitely make this again.


Good recipe, but I like to use fresh ingredients, roma tomatoes are the best instead of canned, and add salt & pepper and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and it will be the best bruschetta you've ever had!!!

BadJoan - Save up to 80% off on Indie Designer Clothing

This stuff is for young, thin girls... so not me....  ( make that young, thin girls with SMALL feet)

Passing this along in case you find something great here.

BadJoan

How to Feed a Family of 4 for less than $100 a Week

Ellen Damaschino, an instructor with Share Our Strength, a national organization that works to prevent childhood hunger. She teaches low-income people how to cook healthful, tasty meals. According to a government report, the average family of 4 gets $95 a week in food stamps... regardless of whether or not you're on food stamps, this is good sound advice for everyone who is pinching their pennies.

How to feed a family of four for a week on less than a hundred bucks

Dollar Store Crafts Blog

This may come in handy when you're looking for projects for kids... every now and then there is something that appeals to me. http://dollarstorecrafts.com

It is wonderful to have the internet to share information and good finds... I LOVE birds so these really appealed to me

Find these birdies at Dollar Tree - 

and make these cool items -

http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2010/03/anthropologie-bird/

Or this Ballard Inspired Bird

http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2010/03/ballard-inspired-bird/

Don't forget to share your finds so that others may get creative too!

Many thanks to the Dollar Store Crafts Blog for a Great Site!

The Ballard Designed bird supplies you will need (in addition to the bird, dowel rod and candlestick are:

 E6000 glue

Berkshire White Satin Latex paint from Wal-Mart (more frugal than spray paint)

 a quart of Ralph Lauren Smoke glaze ($$$ but so worth it)

Instructions

Uses for Newspapers

Newspaper readership is dropping at an alarming rate as Americans turn to the internet for their news source.... it's not only convenient, it's free, for the most part.  I get the weekly free newspaper and I save it because newspapers come in handy........

To Deordorize Shoes - simply made a few balls of scrunched up newspaper sheets and put them in your shoes, overnight the odor ( for most of us) is gone

Washing Windows - after you washed your windows, dry them with newspaper (not the slicks) for a streak free finish

Old Fashion Fun - Make paper sailor hats for kids (  I know, I know, I sound a little like Martha Stewart right now)

Line Compost Buckets - Put a little paper in the bottom of your indoor compost bucket (or line the bucket) to keep it neat and let it empty faster.

Bird Cages - go ahead and line the bottom of the cage with old newsprint, again, not the slick stuff

Save the Comics - can use these to wrap gifts in a pinch

Gardening -  Use around plants as layer one covered wth mulch.

                    Use it to make new gardening beds and paths

                   Along the gardening line, you can use newspaper sections to kill grass in an area you'd like to

                   plant or mulch or whatever if you are patient. Just put the newspaper down, wet it (blocking light

                   from the grass, add mulch over it, and in a few months you have a bed ready for planting, no

                   herbicide or backbreaking sod cutting necessary.

Line the Cat Box -  newspaper to line the bottom of our cats' box, works beautifully. We do cut down on the amt of litter, though...just about 1-2 cups for the whole box, on top of a section of paper. Change every day or other day (just lift up the clean ends of the paper and toss). Never smells, cuts down on the dust, works for cats who have "issues" with dirty boxes...and best of all, no fussing with a gigantic mound of smelly litter! Takes about 1 minute to completely change the box.

Use it as shredding for gift wrapping -   If you have a paper shredder, cut up the funny pages or used, decorative gift wrap by type (example: all occasion vs. Christmas) save for later use to place in gift bags (hopefully reused) to be given - or gift boxes to be mailed, this adds a frugal and festive touch!


Kitchen -  Clean the refrigerator,  put a layer of a couple sheets of newspaper topped with a paper towel in the bottom of vegetable drawers. Very easy to replace every couple weeks--no scrubbing. Keeps things smelling fresh too

When storing dishes or glasses out come the newspapers
Coolers and Lunch Boxes -  put a few pages of newspaper in the bottom of unused, closed coolers and lunch boxes--No smell or mold!

Protect Floors - I spread them on the floor and sink when coloring my hair.

Fireplace Starters - They can also be rolled into "logs" to use as fireplace starters (but don't use the colored print).

Pass unwanted newspapers on to a local organization that deals with children for placing on the table during arts and crafts time.

Useful for creativity, having children cut out the words and make stories (kinda like old kidnapping messages).

Wallpaper -
And although not for everyone, it can even be used as wall paper. (From web) -  "I did not use newsprint, but I did use the picture books that get damaged beyond repair to "wall paper" one wall on my children's bedroom. Simply took white glue (bought in the gallon), thinned it out and placed full pages on the wall until the entire wall was covered. I used a lot of different books (cleaned out the bookshelves) and my girls are all young so the resulting wall is very colorful and the girls have fun making up new stories for their old favorites depending on the pages they are surrounded by. Since books vary greatly in size, they are placed higgly-piggly not in rows, but newsprint could be done in rows. The boys who are older wanted their room done in old maps. You could finish with a coat of varnish, although since my kids are young I did not. I foresee more pages going up in the future when their tastes change. The white glue is easily removed with a flat paint scraper, not sure that varnish would be."



More from the web -
One of the best uses is to roll the newspapers up, then shellac them, and use them as building blocks for furniture. The columns are pretty strong for their weight, and the resultant stuff looks cool. It was in Readymade magazine, but I can't find the issue around my house anymore.


Spread-out newspapers make great weed barriers. Lay them down several sheets thick in spring, before weeds start, or in fall, when they've died. Cover them with mulch. Water can get through, but it stifles weeds. Cut X's if you need to plant through the papers. The papers very slowly decompose into the soil. Bonus: Earthworms seem to really love decomposing paper.


It makes a good addition to a compost heap, too. Shred or rip in strips and floof it when you throw it on. You just use it in layers between organics.


Protect plants. You can also protect your plants by using newspaper to cover them in extreme cold weather or by using wet damp newspaper to transplant new plants.

Insulation. Rolled up newspaper stuffed under doors, in and around cracks makes good temporary insulation and help you stay warm during the cold season. If you are worried about it looking tacky, you can do it temporarily until you buy more fashionable insulation or only do it a night when no one else can see it.


Fireplace. Tie newspaper in a knot and use in the fireplace. Or you can make fire logs out of old newspapers. Roll sheets of newspapers up tightly in the shape of a log (don't use the colored print) and use them in your fireplace.


Packing and storing. Newspaper is a good way to protect your precious items whether you are moving or just storing some stuff away. Stuff vases, glasses, or other fragile items with newspaper then wrap them in newspaper.

Drop cloth. Whether you are painting, cooking or chaining the oil in your car you can use newspaper to make messes a little easier to clean up. Just place the newspaper where it is needed and do what you need without worrying about staining or messes.


Prompt. Use headlines, pictures or first lines for writing prompts. The newspaper is filled with enough bad news and weird stories to take you out of your worst writers block.

Ripen Tomatoes -Wrap green tomatoes in sheets of newspaper. Then, layer them in a box and close the lid. Check on them every couple days, and they will eventually ripen up to a rosy red color!

Sleep Outside Better -Place several sheets of newspaper underneath your sleeping bag when you sleep under the stars. The newspaper will keep your bag dry, free from dirt and grass stains, and provide a warm padding.

Make A Funnel -Roll up a newspaper to make a paper funnel. It's best used for dry goods, but it can hold up to water for awhile.

Table Padding -Place several sheets of old newspaper on your kitchen or dining room table. Then, place a tablecloth over them. The newspaper will take the place of an expensive padding. It will protect your table top from spills and other damage.

Shoe and Boot Mat -Place a folded up newspaper beside the door and place wet and muddy boots on it. It will keep the mud contained.

Makeshift Umbrella -Get caught in a rain storm? Use a newspaper to cover your head and shoulders until you reach shelter.

Grill Cleaner -Soak newspapers in clean water. Then, lay the sheets across a warm barbecue grill. Close the lid and let them soak for an hour or so. Then, remove the papers and wipe the grills clean!

Cheap Rags -Use old newspaper as rags in your garage to wipe your greasy hands on, to wipe off paint brushes, to wipe up oil spills, and to clean up gasoline spills!

Messy dinner? Newspaper’s a classic tablecloth when boiled shrimp, lobster or watermelon’s on the menu.


Shucking corn? Spread out newspaper to catch the silk.

Germinating seeds for your spring garden? Spread ‘em between damp sheets of newspaper.

Smelly Tupperware? Leave a balled up piece of newspaper inside overnight to absorb the odours.


Cold climate? Place on your windshield to prevent icing.
 
Decorate old shoes - I think these are actually very cool.... 
 
Keep Warm - put inside coat for emergency warmth.
 
Bug Basher - roll up newspaper and swat flies
 
Feed the Birds in the Snow -   place on top of snow with bird feed on it.

Junior Sizes - Clothing and Accessories - Trendy with good prices

Check out Charoltte Russe - also carries shoes to size 10

Discount Clothing, Shoes, Accessories, - trendy

The price is right!  Forever 21 offers great pricing for clothing, shoes, jewelry, accessories etc... they even have divisions for kids, men and plus sizes......AND free shipping for orders over $75 in the U.S.

Check them out.. click here

Save Money - How to Wire A Lamp

This home hack tip comes from apartment therapy -

Make your own kitchen cleaner

Use borax, baking soda, vinegar and Dawn dishwashing liquid, plus water. I dissolve 1/4 cup of borax and baking soda in 1 cup of hot water, add 1 cup vinegar and a few teaspoons of Dawn. I put this into spray bottles, and add water to fill the bottle if necessary. I omit the vinegar in one spray bottle so I can use it to clean ceramic tile countertops.


This solution can be modified as needed by adding a little more or less of the ingredients. It is an all purpose cleaner, and works very well in kitchen, bathroom, and other areas. It even cleans burned on black stains off the stovetop without scratching.

How to easily remove stickers

Use a hairdryer set on the hottest setting -  After 45 seconds of direct heat, test a corner of the sticker and see if it peels away easily. If it doesn't, continue the hairdryer treatment for another 45 seconds or so.  Peel off the sticker. For larger stickers, you may need to work in sections. Just peel off the sticker until you feel resistance and then apply more heat to the remaining sticker. It's that simple.

How to tie a Linda Knot

I'm guessing you're like me... you have a lot of scarves in your drawer but little knowledge of how to wear them and tie them into pretty fashion statements to dress up a plain top or dress.

This video will demonstrate how to tie a Linda Knot... easy and simple... why didn't I think of this?

Finding the Least Expensive Gas

Today I am listing TWO great sites to help you squeeze your dollars and save at the pump. If you know of other resources, please let me know.

GASBUDDY.COM

It has options to find the cheapest local gas as well as checking the price of gas across the USA at a glance.

Just in time for rising gas prices in the Midwest, GasBuddy unleashed a new tool- price hike alerts. It was predicted that prices would rise in a few major areas- Minneapolis, Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. Some members located in those areas received e-mails that warned them to fill up as prices were likely to rise and they did rise. To get the price increase alerts you must register. GasBuddy even has a gas blog for those who like to read about what is going on in the world of gas.


GASPRICEWATCH.COM
I highly recommend GasPriceWatch.com - this guide will help you learn how to save money at the pump.

Grab something to drink and plan to spend some time reading about their service on their web site - you will learn how to use it and/or how to improve your experience on it. You may even wish to become a registered "gas spotter".


Make sure to read the FAQ/HELP section and check out the folder that says MY ROUTE
Once there, set up "MyPage" so you can store your favorite stations in the order you pass them.
The basic function of the website is to help you find the lowest price of gas in your neighborhood.

You don't have to register to use GasPriceWatch.com. You can start searching right now by using one of the forms on the left. Go ahead, give it a try.

If you would like to help spot and post prices in your neighborhood so others can benefit from our website, then you must register as a spotter. It's free to join, takes just a moment and admits you to the ranks of thousands of others who support the search for the lowest price in town! We currently have over 123,000 volunteers just like you spotting and posting prices, putting in time to help make this website the best in the United States for keeping a check gas prices.

Their goal is to encourage the low priced leaders in your community by increasing their sales.

Deals at the Dollar Store

I admit it, I love the Dollar Store and have gotten some great bargains there! I also love Odd Lots/ Big Lots too but the Dollar Store is the better buy for most things...

Here are a few things I purchase there - 

Wrigley's Gum -  5/ $1    -  Bobby Pins   -   Gift Bags & Tissue -  Greeting Cards

Boxes of Tissue- it's not Kleenex but it works for me

Nail Polish Remover and Cotton Balls

Snacks - such as candy for the jar at work, cookies, etc.

Spices   -  Olives  -  Roasted peppers in jars

Sunglasses -  I've lost so many pairs over the years that I now buy many pairs to keep in the car, at home etc.

Pasta & Marinara Sauce if using it for a casserole

Shampoo - Conditioner - hair elastics -  nail file

Duct tape, electric tape, extra screw drivers

Tape measurer, mending kit for my purse

Wine glasses for a party - (you have to shop often but from time to time you can find GREAT wine glasses there)

Kitchen - ladles, plastic spoons, can openers, measuring cups

Hand sanitizer

Some Cleaning products

For the most part, I don't care for the candles the Dollar store carries and you have to know what you're buying but there are MANY deals to be had there.

Designer Coffee - Is it worth $1,000 a year to you?

If so, I say go for it because dropping into your favorite coffee shop every morning will set you back about $5 a cup, $20 a week... at the end of the year that adds up to $1,040!!!  (That's assuming you haven't picked up something to munch on with it)

Going through McDonalds for a cup of joe will set you back - $5 or $6 dollars a week ( or more if you go with their new designer coffees)

Save some cash and brew your own coffee at home - even consider taking a thermos to work with you.... if you like froth, pick up a home frother at the hardware store to whip your milk - you could even buy some of beans your favorite shop sells and still be money ahead... but if it's all about see and be seen or not being able to get out of that habit, just know what that morning cup of joe costs you at the end of the year.

Best Months to Buy Certain Items

It used to be that each month of the year was associated with certain items on sale - like the January and August WHITE SALES -  and bargain shoppers waited for those sales to make their purchases. In this competitive market, those sales are going by the wayside but there are still some tips for saving money promoted by consumer groups who know the market best.

Often, the Christmas shopping season offers the best bargains and lowest prices of the year as retailers compete for the holiday shopping dollars.

KNOW WHAT IS ON SALE -  In some cases, your bargain might be a discontinued model without all the latest features. That may or not may matter to you, often more features come with more things to go wrong.

BEST BUYS ON AIRLINE TICKETS
Airline tickets tend to be least expensive to buy on Tuesday afternoon through Thursday. Worst days to fare shop are Saturday and Sunday.

CDs and DVDs generally come out on Tuesdays and might be on sale for the first one to three weeks.

Jewelry Sales sales are common, except around Valentine's Day and the December holidays. So plan to buy early or hope that your beloved will settle for an IOU.

JANUARY - after we all have over indulged - EXERCISE EQUIPMENT AND GYM DEALS - as well as Super Bowl food items
FEB & MARCH - Winter clothing on close out

APRIL - Digital Cameras, Lawn, Garden and Patio Items, Spring Clothing.

MAY - Bikes, GRILLS  and Camping Gear, Colone for Mother's Day

JUNE -.

JULY - Summer clothing goes on sale after the 4th of July

AUGUST - Back to School items and WHITE SALE

October - Snowblowers and Air Conditioners on Close out - also Winter Coats- Halloween Candy
November - Christmas Sales Start

Save Money Grocery Shopping - Buy Produce Last

Experts know that produce bruises less if it is put in the cart at the end of the shopping trip so WHY is it that it is the first thing we see when we enter the grocery store is the PRODUCE Department?

According to those same experts, it's the first thing we see for a few reasons:

1) buying healthy food right off the bat will make us feel less guilty about indulging in other items that are not so healthy or are just clearly unhealthy choices (one does cancel the other still, right?)

2) We tend to buy more because we haven't already overindulged in other items

3) The biggest reason - PROFIT - produce has the highest profit margin - and it feels healthier to buy fresh broccoli for a casserole than it does to buy frozen broccoli at half the price.

So - save money and buy produce last.... and if you're using something in a casserole consider buying it frozen for half the money.

Live Frugal and Do Something You Love

Some great advice from Frugal Dad is to live frugal and do something you love before you have to do something for money. It's much easier done at 25 than 30 or 35.

Slash Your Grocery Bills in Half

Sound advice from the Coupon Queen

One Bag - The Art & Science of Traveling Light

This is a GREAT web site and hopefully it will help you eliminate the number one travel mistake - OVER PACKING!

It's filled with information and is sure to be a site that you will return to often over the years.

http://www.onebag.com/

Making a list - checking it twice --- Packing for a Trip

Universal packing list - this list helps you make your packing list and even logs into a map and can be emailed to yourself!


http://upl.codeq.info/

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program enables low-income families to permanently reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. During the last 33 years, the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program has provided weatherization services to more than 6.4 million low-income families.

http://hes.lbl.gov/hes/makingithappen/advice.html

Make your own Girl Scout Cookies

First, I want to say, please support your local Girl Scout troop. I was a scout for years and think it's a worthwhile organization for young ladies.
Cookie sales are their only real means of fundraising so please support them by ordering from them. A very small portion of the cookie sales actually goes to them. After you've eaten your stash of cookies and you're getting a hankering for the delicious cookies once again - try these recipes.

Thin Mints are their best selling cookies. As always, the homemade version is healthier for you.

This recipe comes from "Baking Bites" and you can find other recipes for Girl Scout CopyCat Recipes on their web site. Enjoy!

Homemade Thin Mints Cookies

The dough is made in advance, rolled into a log and chilled. This allows the cookies to be sliced off easily into rounds so there is no for a cookie cutter.

Once baked, they are dipped into a dark chocolate coating. Use a good quality dark chocolate to work with, starting with a bar and chopping it up. Semisweet chocolate - by which I mean chocolate chips - will work pretty well, too, although you might need to add an extra tablespoon of butter if your chocolate doesn’t get thin enough to ensure a thin cookie coating.

The cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for several days, but like “real” Girl Scout cookies, they taste great when frozen and will last for weeks - if not longer - in the freezer.

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
6 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/3 cup milk (any kind)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 tsp peppermint extract

In a small bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder and salt.

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar. With the mixer on low speed, add in the milk and the extracts. Mixture will look curdled.

Gradually, add in the flour mixture until fully incorporated.

Shape dough into two logs, about 1 1/2 inches (or about 4 cm) in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 1-2 hours, until dough is very firm.

Preheat oven to 375F.

Slice dough into rounds not more than 1/4 inch thick - if they are too thick, they will not be as crisp - and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Cookies will not spread very much, so you can put them quite close together.

Bake for 13-15 minutes, until cookies are firm at the edges.

Cool cookies completely on a wire rack before dipping in chocolate.

Dark Chocolate Coating
10-oz dark or semisweet chocolate
1/2 cup butter, room temperature

In a microwave safe bowl, combine chocolate and butter. Melt on high power in the microwave, stirring every 45-60 seconds, until chocolate is smooth or melt your chocolate in a double boiler over hot, not boiling, water.. Chocolate should have a consistency somewhere between chocolate syrup and fudge for a thin coating.

Dip each cookie in melted chocolate, turn with a fork to coat, then transfer to a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to set up for at least 30 minutes, or until chocolate is cool and firm.
Reheat chocolate as needed to keep it smooth and easy to dip into.

Makes 3 1/2-4 dozen cookies.

The Environmental Working Group provides in depth information about cleaning products, chemicals in other consumer products, cosmetics, and more:

Cleaning products don’t need to be loaded with artificial fragrances and toxic chemicals to be effective. Antibacterial chemicals such as triclosan do not make products work better (Aiello, 2007). Because people spend up to 90% of their time inside, keeping indoor air and surfaces free of harmful chemicals should be a priority. The most effective cleaning products are multi-purpose, simple, and non-toxic. Regular soap, baking soda, vinegar, and straightforward products such as Bon Ami can clean almost anything in your home without adding unneeded and harmful chemicals.


At EWG, their team of scientists, engineers, policy experts, lawyers and computer programmers pores over government data, legal documents, scientific studies and they expose threats to your health and the environment, and to find solutions. Their research brings to light unsettling facts that you have a right to know.

Pollution is not only an "environmental" issue, it's a public health issue. Learn about the health effects of toxic chemicals that we absorb through our water, food and the products that we use. Learn about how to limit your exposure and about our work to reform toxics legislation. Subscribe to our toxics and human health feed
www.ewg.org/Health  - The Power of Information

One Great & Inexpensive Cleaning Product

AMERICA'S ORIGINAL NATURAL HOME CLEANER

It’s earth-friendly: All-natural limestone is one of the principal ingredients, which is a very mild abrasive (this is probably what makes this stuff so good at stain-busting without leaving streaks or scratch marks), followed by sustainable cleaning agents like coconut, corn, and palm oils, plus baking soda to neutralize any lingering smells. Even the packaging is made of recycled paper!

It is inexpensive and can be used on almost everything!  Think about it - it's powerful enought to get out stubborn stains and yet gentle enought that you can use it on things you eat off of and it's been around 120 years with very few formula changes!

Bon Ami can be use used on -  tiles, tub, toilet, sinks, stove, grills, outdoor furniture, stainless steel appliances, pots and pans, windows, wooden decks, crystal, cutting boards, silverware, even swimming pools! I(check out  the comprehensive list on the manufacturer's website, along with tips on how to tackle each one)!


Did I mention it's CHEAP - I like CHEAP - especially when it's CHEAP  & EFFECTIVE!
The ingredients are simple, effective, and proudly listed right on the package. Bon Ami is always biodegradable, nontoxic and hypoallergenic.

They've recently updated their look... and on their web site they mention the bottles look "foggy"... there's a good reason for that.... because Bon Ami is using 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles for their products. Once again, Bon Ami has a use for something others have tossed away and they didn't stop there! Their labels and adhesive are the most compatible with the recycle stream. So go ahead and feel good about these plastic bottles. Buy a few for your friends.... it's a great gift for a friend and the ecology!

5 SIMPLE Ingredients

Limestone ~ Calcium carbonate


Feldspar

Biodegradable cleaning agents ~ Alkyl polyglucoside

Soda ash ~ Sodium carbonate

Baking soda ~ Sodium bicarbonate

Bacon Salt

Bacon lovers - you are now one step closer to Bacon Heaven without the calories!

This company started with 3 flavors of Bacon Salt – Original, Hickory and Peppered.

Since then, we’ve found even more things to make taste like bacon. We’ve expanded the Bacon Salt family to include Natural Bacon Salt and several Limited Edition flavors (Applewood, Jalapeno, Mesquite, Cheddar and Maple Redux). We’re also very excited about the newest addition to the family, Baconnaise™, which promises to take your sandwiches, salads, dips, fish and fries (and more) to new and more bacon-y heights.

Whether you're a regular griller or a gourmet chef, are counting calories or are a vegetarian who craves mouth-watering bacon taste without the bacon guilt, this is what you've been waiting for.

We hope you love it like we do. Please contact us to tell us what you think, share your recipes, or buy some of our bacon-themed merchandise to help spread the word while donating to a great cause.

Enjoy the bacon,

Justin and Dave, Bacontrepreneurs

http://www.baconsaltblog.com/
http://www.jdfoods.net/ourstory.php

Safe Sushi Wallet Guide

If you eat Sushi, there’s something you should know. Many of the fish used to make sushi are high in mercury, a neurotoxin that can be dangerous if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. But this doesn’t* Fish to avoid for reasons other than mercury: Fish and other types of seafood are marked with an asterisk above if any of their populations are depleted due to overfishing or if the methods used to catch them are especially damaging to other sea life or ocean habitats.


Sources for NRDC’s guide: The data for this guide to mercury in fish comes from two federal agencies: the Food and Drug Information, which tests fish for mercury, and the Environmental Protection Agency, which determines mercury levels that it considers safe for women of childbearing age.

Click here to download a safe sushi wallet card

ENERGY STAR - Earth Saver

Look For the ENERGY STAR® Label    


Saving the Earth. Saving Your Money.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are working together to promote the use of energy-efficient equipment by awarding the ENERGY STAR label to products that save energy. The agencies set energy efficiency criteria for specific consumer and commercial products. These criteria exceed the minimum national efficiency standards, where such standards exist. Manufacturers and retailers volunteer to place the ENERGY STAR label on those models that meet or exceed the criteria set by EPA and DOE.



The ENERGY STAR label can help make purchasing decisions easier. These products not only save energy, they help prevent air pollution and save money, frequently with better performance. Remember to look for the ENERGY STAR label - the symbol of energy efficiency.



More information about ENERGY STAR-labeled products:



Furnaces, Heat pumps (Air-source, Geothermal, and Gas-fired), Central air conditioners, Boilers, Programmable thermostats, Insulation, TVs, VCRs, New homes, Light fixtures, Office equipment (Computers, Printers, Fax machines, Scanners, Multifunction devices, Copiers)

(or contact EPA at 1-888-STAR-YES; 1-888-782-7937)

Refrigerators, Dishwashers, Room air conditioners, Clothes washers, Windows

(or contact DOE at 1-800-DOE-EREC; 1-800-363-3732)

ENERGY STAR Billing For better utility bill design

Planning to Travel Soon? Search these sites for discount air travel fare

Clark Howard Air Travel Sites

Photo by Fossey@FineDay's

I am a big fan of Clark Howard, Consumer Advocate. - If you don't know him, you should... he's on the radio with a syndicated radio show and you can search for him online.

He recommends the following sites for searching for ticket prices when flying.
http://www.airgorilla.com/

http://www.kayak.com/

http://www.mobissimo.com/  – for international travel

Saving Money on Textbooks

Saving money on textbooks March 2010

I have two college-aged sons so I'm always looking for ways to stretch a nickel...

The information below has been collected from various comments online about buying or renting textbooks to save money. With the exception of http://www.half.com/, I have not used any of them - if you have please leave your feedback to share your experience with others.


• http://www.chegg.com/ - they have pioneered textbook rental and saved students and parents more than $100,000 in the process.

"I purchase my textbooks online using www.campusbooks.com to find the lowest prices. After I finish the class, I sell my books on www.half.com I carefully calculate the shipping charges and commission to make sure I break even on my books. Some semesters I even make a little profit! I think it's a great way to "rent" textbooks for free!"

• Renting Books

"Cheaper than renting books is buying them online from www.alibris.com Great prices! New books and used books. The only down side is that it may take up to ten days for the books to arrive in the mail although you can pay more for fast delivery - "

Chegg and textbooks
if they use a code to do homework, the cost of buying the code and the rental may be more than a new text. NOTE -  Chegg's rental is a few months, if a student uses a book more than one term, cheaper to buy the book.

• a better solution is to buy the book directly from the publisher. they will save lots of money!

"I purchased through www.Abebooks.com this semester and saved a fortune. This is a clearinghouse for individual sellers. Ex - I got a used book that sold at the bookstore for $84 for only $20 at Abebooks. You do have to be careful with the sellers on this site. All the books from the various sellers arrived quickly, but one called "Motor City Books" took forever and had terrible customer service.

I have since found that it is much cheaper to buy used textbooks online at www.half.com and then resell them the same way. You can almost get all your money back that way!"

Make your own soft drinks

Tired of spending a fortune on soft drinks? You're not alone. The average family of four consumes 2,400 sodas annually-totaling nearly $1,080. With a home fountain machine, you can save money and have fun making everything from soda water to diet root beer. After purchasing a startup kit, you buy refill canisters of CO2 and syrup. A liter of sparkling water is 21 cents, compared with $1.50 or more for the store-bought variety, and flavored soda costs roughly 25 cents per 12 ounces.

Save about $720 per year for a family of four (you'll also produce less household waste). SodaStream Fountain Jet starter kit, $100.

Get FREE HDTV Service

I had no idea... perhaps you didn't know this either. Important - you will not get paid cable channels but you will get a lot of channels, so they say.

Ever since TV went digital, you no longer need cable to receive local broadcast network HDTV channels. For static-free reception, all that's required is a digital antenna (and a converter box if your TV is analog instead of digital). Go to antennaweb.org to find out which antenna will work for your location and which channels you'll receive - you simply enter your address.   Although you won't get paid cable channels anymore, you may be amazed at how many HDTV channels are free (the number varies based on your location).

Save the $700 or more a year you spend on cable.Antennaweb.org lists antennas ranging from $40 to $150. Or spend less by making your own for about $15 with the instructions at current.org.

Get free home phone service

When you plug the MagicJack into a telephone and your computer's USB port, your calls (in the U.S. and Canada) are absolutely free, using your high-speed Internet connection. The service also comes with call waiting, voice mail and caller ID, at no extra charge.

Save from $30 to $100 per month, or however much you normally spend on your phone bill. MagicJack, $40.

Click here to go to the MagicJack web site
 
According to the company's web site you even get a free phone number, free local and long distance calls, free directory assistance, free voice mail and free call waiting.
 
If you have used this product, please let us know how you like it.

Another product that elminates a home phone line bill is -

Ditch your landline


With XLink, you can gab all you want-at home-without having to pay a monthly landline bill. Just route your cell phone calls to a regular phone through the Xlink console (via a Bluetooth signal). Your cell phone's caller ID and voice mail will transfer over, too, and you don't even need a landline for the console to work.

Save about $33 per month (depending on your phone usage). XLink, $80.

Check out XLink - says it can connect up to 3 cell phones on one USB connection

In regards to the XLink, it will save you money because it allows you to cancel your landline phone service altogether. You can still use landline phone headsets all over the house to answer calls routed from your cell phone, which gives you the comfort of using a "landline" (without the pesky monthly landline phone bill!)

The Frugal Wardrobe

When 9-11 happened, I was working as a professional headhunter in the midst of a divorce. Despite being in the Midwest, we suddenly a plethora of people unemployed and willing to move anywhere AND Monster.com was really taking off...... professional headhunters were being phased out... and the company I worked for laid-off all but one of us.

It was my worst nightmare... I had never been unemployed... nor had I been divorced. Money was very tight. I learned to do things differently. A big treat for me was buying adhesive to work on my scrapbooks.

During this time I met a friend for lunch who always dressed like a million bucks. We were discussing my need to buy some new clothes for job interviews. She told me she is on a very tight budget since her divorce.  I was amazed to hear her say that... she had TONS of clothes.  She invited me over for lunch a few days later to show me her work clothes and how she stretches a dollar.

I was stunned. Her work clothes took up a very small area of her closet - and they looked so nice and neat.

She told me she took a class on dressing frugal from an Image Consultant and then paid a few hundred dollars to have her go through her wardrobe and sort it out. After doing that, the consultant took her shopping to buy the "gaps" in her clothing and in styles that went together and flattered her.

The first thing the consultant did was look over her clothing and say.... it appears black is your favorite color... my friend agreed. The consultand told her to pick a neutral to go with it... either white or ivory... she picked ivory.  Then she told her to pick her favorite accent color - she actually picked TWO ... one for the summer (lime green) and one for the winter (fushia).

Everything she bought had to fit into her 3 colors to build her basic wardrobe and all blazers had to have pockets and slacks had to have at least one pocket. Belts optional.

Blazers need two pockets... one for your business card, one for those you receive from others....and a tube of lipstick. She kept telling her a lady should never be caught without her lips on.

You can build a solid wardrobe for casual wear in much the same way, using the tips and suggestions above. Just dress down your choices for a smart-casual look. You will find that some of your shirts can double up for both formal and casual wear. If you build a solid wardrobe that suits your environment, personality and above all your budget you’ll never look dull and are sure to always have something stylish to wear.

She ended up with -

BLACK
A classic black dress (that could be worn under the blazer)
A classic black blazer
Black skirt
Black shell
Pull over black sweater
Black cardigan
3 of the same pair of black slacks

IVORY
A classic ivory dress that could be worn under a blazer
A classic ivory blazer
Ivory skirt
Ivory shell
Ivory pullover sweater
Ivory dressy T
2 pair of the same ivory slacks

LIME GREEN
A classic lime green blazer
Lime green shell
Lime green pullover sweater
Lime green blazer
Lime Green Skirt
Lime Green Slacks

ONLY BLACK SHOES
dressy black flat
office casual black flats
black sandals -dressy
black sandals - office casual
Black heels - dressy
Black heels - work

PURSES 2 -
Black casual
Black dressy

Tote Bag -
Black Casual

Coats -
Winter coat - black dressy
Winter coat- black short casual
Rain coat - black

Umbrella -
Ivory, Black, Green

JEWELRY
Pick gold or silver and buy all the same color
short 16" plain chain
18" plain chain
bracelet
hoops - small
larger hoops that can have a something that hangs on them (shop of QVC)
dressy dangles
2 or 3 pair of business type earrings
a long necklace that can be doubled if desired

a couple pendants that can hang on 18" necklace or slide onto the longer necklace

Pearls - necklace, earrings and bracelet

SCARVES
one in each of the 3 basic colors
3 that go with the 3 basic colors (maybe prints or contrasting colors)

JEANS-
1 dressy pair of jeans
1 black pair of jeans
2 regular pair of jeans
3 Tshirts
2 sweaters
2 sweatshirts

Tennis shoes
1 pair of casual sandals you love


My friend says she spends MUCH less on clothing now but buys better clothing......... and it's simplified her life - saves her time shopping - and considerably cut the clutter. She also finds she no longer has a closet full of things she rarely wears or really doesn't like. 

I've not been able to make the big plunge - can't afford to go buy everything at the same time in the basic colors but I have more or less gone to all black shoes, black coats, black purses, etc with the accent colors in scarves. 

Over the years my friend has honed her style even more... she (and I) both wear black slacks to work almost every day of the year.  She bought a jewelry bag that looks like a large makeup case and has multiple compartments to hold jewelry so it won't tarnish. She keeps ALL her jewelry in it and when she travels she just packs that. 

She has gone to one color of blush, two colors of lipstick, two colors of eyeshadow 

She only wears black knee highs under her black slacks and she buys 10 pair of the same one at the same time. 

Her two sisters have adopted her "Tri-Color Wardrobe" - their colors:

Warm Brown
Ivory
Black

Gray
White
Burgundy     ( can you tell she graduated from The Ohio State University?)

The clothes in your closet need to WORK TOGETHER. You can build a solid wardrobe that is both affordable and practical with very little fuss if you follow some simple guidelines. Here are some suggestions on how to build a solid wardrobe.

When you build a solid wardrobe you need to think ‘simplicity’. Your choice of clothes should feature those with clean lines that are both casual and comfortable but well chosen enough to create a professional image.

‘Wardrobing’ is a system of buying (or making) clothes in a few basic colors that all work together. In so doing you can create multiple outfits from a few basic outfits. If you master the art of wardrobing you can create different outfits for seven weeks with just eleven garments!

BEGIN WITH 11 GARMENTS

The eleven garments you will need to build a solid wardrobe are:

* 2 pairs of pants

* 2 skirts – one in a solid color and one in a print or check

* 2 simple tops – one in a solid color and one in the same print as above

* 4 tops, in colors which coordinate with the solids

* 1 simple cardigan or jacket in a solid color

Tri-Color Formula
Ensure that your formula works by picking two basic colors and adding a third complementary color. Next, make sure the print has the two basic colors in it. You might chose beige and navy as your two basic colors and a skirt in gold plus a print in navy and beige. Your four simple tops can be the fun items in your wardrobe. Try adding other colors like rust or ivory to this formula.

Items to build a solid wardrobe:

* One cardigan – in one of your basic colors

* 3 long-sleeve tops in tones that coordinate

* 1 long skirt in a print

* 1 blouse or top in the same print

* 1 knee-length skirt in a solid color

* 2 more pairs of pants in tones that blend with your color palette

If you don’t enjoy wearing skirts, simply replace them with two good pairs of pants.

Hints and Suggestions for Wearing Your Garments

Notice that printed items are kept to a minimum in a solid wardrobe. If buy a lot of printed fabrics you will soon find that your options are extremely limited since they really only match themselves or one other item. Choose prints very carefully.

With this wardrobe plan the printed items match least two and maybe three of the solid colors. In this way you know that these garments will go with everything and you can even split the top and skirt up and wear them separately.

A note on two-piece garments for example a skirt and blouse in the same fabric. Always wash or dry clean both pieces together even if you haven’t worn one of them to avoid one piece of the set fading.

To build a solid wardrobe that works you need to have all eleven items and stick to the color palette. Having only one or two or skipping items won’t work.

Fabric Choices
If this is a business wardrobe choose suit-type fabrics and silk for the tops. If your wardrobe is more casual choose casual fabrics like denims, cottons or knits

A Woman Needs to Know How to Wear Her Solid Wardrobe

Mix and Match your outfits to create a new look for each day. Spend some time trying on your clothes to find looks that work and are unique. Do this by rotating shirts, shoes and belts or sweaters.

Layering is a great way to ensure a slightly different look that adapts well to after-work or lunchtime entertaining. Try a white shirt under a navy jacket or striped t-shirt with pants under a cardigan. .

Try to alternate the outfits so that you don’t wear the same thing each day or the same combination of clothes too regularly.

More Tips

Use the rule of three: buy an item only if you can wear it with three other garments.

Build a wardrobe over several seasons. Update and add each season for a fresh new look.

Buy the best quality you can afford. If your budget is limited, spend it on one quality item such as a blazer, a suit, or basic dress; fill in with less expensive pieces.

Spend the bulk of your budget on the base pieces. You will thank me later for this advice. Quality base pieces will last and will remain fashionable.

Fill in your wardrobe with accessories with the remainder of your wardrobe budget. These items are often the trendier or more seasonable items and have a shorter shelf life in your wardrobe.

And for those of you who do not have a wardrobe budget - get one. The easiest way to have an out of control closet or overflowing shoe bin is too just go shopping willy-nilly without a plan.

Clipping Coupons or Digital Coupons?

It's a new day in the world of clipping coupons. Now you have options - you can do the "old-fashioned" method of clipping them out of the newspaper or you get technical and download digital coupons onto your store "rewards" card.

Perhaps you're like me - you clip coupons and forget to take them to store with you. I'm going to go on record as saying this is NOT an age-related issue, it's one that hits everyone across the board. Now you can tie your Kroger Plus Shoppers card to online digital coupon sites. The savings are automatic, and there’s no need to present a paper coupon.


Supermarkets such as Kroger allow customers to tie their reward cards to online coupon sites such as Cellfire.com and ShortCuts.com. No more paper coupons at the checkout.

You will need to register at each site and enter your rewards number as shown on your card.The rewards card and the coupons are automatically linked. All you need to do is give the cashier your Kroger Plus card and it will automatically take off at savings the end of your order.

The Down Side? *Limit one use for each coupon. A limit of 100 coupons can be added per card. All coupon values reflect exact discount at register. Regardless of normal store processes, coupons will not double. Remember not all brands are offered through the Kroger site - some brands, like P & G, only offer coupons by visiting THEIR web site.

Clipping Coupons is not totally eliminated - those who like to double coupons or when you need more than one of an item, you will still need to clip coupons. If your favorite store is not participating in digital coupons, go to shortcuts.com and register - select your favorite store and they will email you when and if it offers digital coupons.

Cellfire.com adds new coupon offers every two weeks.

If you're shopping and realize you've forgotten to load your card at home - you can use your cell phone right in the store while you’re still shopping. Log on to Cellfire.com to find a coupon you need and use it minutes later when you check out at the register.

No clipping. No printing.

Now, the only thing you can forget is your shopping list.... I'm sure I'm not the only one who does that on a routine basis. :)