photo by tinywhitelights This holiday season, many families are avoiding advertising and consumerism and are opting for a simpler celebration. Some call it an old-fashioned or homespun holiday, but the common thread is the desire to set reasonable expectations and budgets, and get back to basics. Article continues below ↓ advertisement | your ad here [...]
Article continues below ↓ advertisement | your ad here Bargain shoppers of all ages and incomes know that thrift stores have hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, such as surprise deals on home furnishings, books, antiques, clothing and electronics. Many items are new and make wonderful gifts. This makes them the perfect place for those [...]
Article continues below ↓ advertisement | your ad here photo by tbisaacs The holiday season is almost here. For some men, shopping for the women in their lives is a frustrating mystery. I’ve witnessed many men shopping around the holidays, and they appear not only clueless but downright desperate. In all fairness, some women have [...]
photo by sensescape Our lives are often filled with small frustrations, like peeling boiled eggs, getting the baked-on grease off bakeware and the cabinets that you’re afraid to open for fear items will launch an offensive. Help is here. The following are simple solutions to these issues and a few more pearls of wisdom.
DEAR SARA: Have you tried Disc Doctor or similar Compact Disc/DVD repair kits, or do you have a frugal way to repair a fairly scratched disc? — Denise, Colorado DEAR DENISE: I have tried repair kits and have had success with them, if the scratches are minor. Avoid using toothpaste, alcohol and ammonia because they [...]
photo by sylvar Personal budgeting is a life skill that, sadly, isn’t taught often enough at home or at school. It never ceases to amaze me how much some young adults owe and own these days. Today, readers share money-saving life lessons from their parents, which they plan to pass on to their children.
You’re happily coasting along with your frugality and enjoying the money you’ve saved. Suddenly, you realize, not only are some people whispering around you, some are bold enough to make comments. Some of your family and friends might be in awe and proud of you, but some are snickering or thinking you’re a cheapskate. Maybe [...]
photo by jef poskanzer Planning a unique party for girl ‘tweens can be difficult and costly. With the latest trend being hotel parties and amusement centers, budget-conscious families are challenged to please their kids while offering low-cost alternatives that are safe, fun and successful. Before you stress out or cave in to their whims, consider [...]
photo by cortomaltese “Financial freedom has everything to do with your belief system.” — Ron Blue A common misconception is that frugality is voluntary poverty, deprivation or selfishness. Frugal folks aren’t cheap misers with the world’s largest ball of saved rubber bands in their garage or 1,000 rinsed plastic baggies. Frugality is knowing when you [...]
photo by laurenatclemson I’m not a total cheapskate, but I rarely purchase greeting cards. I am tempted on special occasions, but I resist. Looking through the card aisles, all I can think about is what I could give the recipient instead of a greeting card. I also can’t help but consider how quickly they are [...]
photo by jslander Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but with the price of boxed cereals and milk so out of control, it can become the most expensive meal of the day, too. Plenty of simple, frugal breakfast options are available, even for families in a hurry. Shifting your morning routine [...]
Am I the only one who makes her own iced mochas by using leftover coffee, ice and chocolate syrup? Today, readers share tips they swear they thought up themselves. Are any familiar?
Frugality can be integrated into your daily routine. It can become second nature. The potential annual savings from some frugal tips might not be enough to buy a new car or pay off a large debt, but it’s money you normally wouldn’t have, and you can choose the best place to spend it or save [...]
photo by Looking glass A streamlined menu plan saves you money. But preparing and serving the same meals can get dull quickly. A few ingredients stored in your pantry will add flair to your dinner rotation. As a bonus, they don’t cost much when you consider how many uses you can get from each item [...]
photo by cogdogblog Preparation is smart. Emergencies can be man-made or natural and happen when you least expect them. Maybe you’ve had a nagging feeling that you should be doing something. But what? There are a few basic ways to plan ahead so you can have peace of mind. First, consider some of the top [...]
photo by BillHR DEAR SARA: I’m looking for suggestions regarding the cookbook I am making for my sister. I am trying to get it done. What should I include apart from recipes? I am going to include a measurement-conversion chart and food pyramid. Your help, as always, is appreciated. — Denise, California DEAR DENISE: You [...]
photo by flavous It’s easy to use too much of items that are in squeeze bottles. One way to combat over-usage is to put liquids such as shampoo, dish liquid, hand soap or condiments into pump dispensers. This will distribute a pre-measured amount each time you use it. The first reader tip shares a way [...]
