Many frugalitarians focus on lowering their grocery bill. One way of lowering the cost is to create a meal plan. Organizing your meals will decrease your likelihood of purchasing pre-packaged convenience foods, that are crowding the grocery store shelves, or buying takeout from the numerous fastfood restaurants, on every corner. How far in advance do [...]
When entertaining overnight houseguests, you want them to enjoy themselves, be comfortable and relaxed, and especially feel welcome. You might think you’ve got it all covered. Perhaps, you’ve anticipated their needs, such as remembering their food preferences and/or dietary restrictions, setting out scented soaps, crisp, clean linens and fresh flowers. Article continues below ↓ advertisement [...]
Frugal people sometimes get teased for reusing items. For example, you might save aluminum foil to reuse later. While some may find that idea silly, frugal people know there are plenty of ways to put foil to good use. How have you reused aluminum foil? Here are a few suggestions. DRYER BALLS: Wad foil into [...]
photo by chocolate monster mel You can’t always get what you want. Sometimes you have to make do and be flexible. If you’re cooking and suddenly realize that you’re out of an ingredient, it might be more practical to go without it or to substitute something you have on hand. Why make a special trip [...]
photo by aka_kath Curious what the going rate is for a lost tooth? Fortunately, she’s not giving cars yet, but I’ve discovered the tooth fairy I know is pretty frugal compared to most. She’s been known to give loose change and even small snacks to my kids. Readers share creative ways to celebrate the tooth-fairy [...]
D EAR SARA: I had a longterm house guest, who was an abundant user of hairspray. When she moved out recently, I noticed that the bathroom door, which she always stood in front of to do her hair, is coated with the sticky residue from her hairspray. The door is a stained polyresin door, and [...]
photo by didbygraham One challenge for moms of young children is finding the time to exercise. Nap times can be unpredictable, and I don’t know about you, but I don’t have the discipline to wake up for a 4 a.m. jog. I applaud women who can. If you wait for the perfect workout situation, you’ll [...]
