For years we have bought a special produce cleaner to wash our fruits and vegetables. We have tried several brands, but none are cheap. I happened to be watching an episode of the new talk show “The Chew” at work the other day. One of their hosts mentioned her own homemade fruit and vegetable wash.... Continue Reading →
Happy New Year 2012!
Thank you to all of my subscribers and other readers! I hope you are finding this blog helpful (and entertaining, too). I enjoy working on it, although I am not able to post as often as I did in the summer when I was not working. Please let me know if there are any topics... Continue Reading →
Surf, shop, and share to earn rewards and prizes!
There are two basic components to living on a tight budget: spending less and earning more. I have written many posts on how to spend less. However, there are ways to earn more as well: ∞ Sell items you are done with or don’t need (Ebay, yard sales, consignment shops) or donate them and keep your... Continue Reading →
Sports freebies for kids
Many professional and amateur sports teams offer kids’ clubs to help get kids interested in their teams and to promote athletics and fitness. These clubs often offer free tickets, souvenirs, and other related items. To find one in your area, Google your favorite sports’ team’s name and “kids’ club” to see what is available. Or... Continue Reading →
Get rewarded for shopping – updated!
I love stores that offer rewards for shopping there. Years ago rewards cards were always punch cards that you would get a stamp or punch on and when you filled your card, you got a reward. Now stores have gotten more savvy and often have cards that are swiped and you can track your rewards... Continue Reading →
First canning experiment: Apple butter
For years I have wanted to try canning. My husband wasn't so excited, but went along with it. He has experimented with many spaghetti sauce recipes and has a great refried beans recipe. We always thought it would be great to be able to can them to give to others or to store for later.... Continue Reading →
Items you don’t always (and in some cases shouldn’t) have to pay for
There are some things that are downright silly to pay for and others that you try to get free as much as possible. Here are a few items to avoid paying for if you can! ∞ Books: For books for myself I go to the library and use swap sites (see my post "My favorite find... Continue Reading →
Finding a home for used stuffed animals
(updated 4/20/17) Usually around Chanukah or Pesach/Passover, I realize that my boys have too many toys. With them getting new things for Chanukah and birthdays, I am also reminded to get rid of toys and games they have gotten too old for or rarely play with. The stuffed animal bin, especially, is always overflowing. The... Continue Reading →
Holiday gifts, Part 4 — Gifts that support charities
If you are still looking for that perfect gift, why not choose something that also gives back to charity. Here are some great articles to help you with your choice: “Holiday Gifts That Give Back” from Real Simple. “11 Holiday Gift Programs That Benefit Nonprofits and Make the World A Better Place: 2011 Edition” “Gifts that... Continue Reading →
Holiday gifts, Part 3 — Home/Handmade
In high school I started a holiday tradition of making handmade gifts for my stepmom’s relatives. I, of course, didn’t have a lot of money, but I loved crafts. By making gifts I was able to do something thoughtful for my loved ones and it fit within my budget. Some projects I have made over... Continue Reading →