31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #23 - Try to Fix it First

Going along with performing maintenance to save money, is trying to fix things before buying new.  If your fan broke, instead of replacing it, try fixing it first.  You might get lucky and all it needs is a cleaning, or maybe some grease.  If not, are you really out anything?  Nope, and if you can fix your fan, you've saved yourself the money of a having to buy a new one.  This really depends on how handy you are, but it can be applied to other things besides appliances.  Did you loose a button off your favorite flannel?  Buy a new one and sew it on instead of buying a new shirt.  Got a hole in the knee of your jeans, tear up the other knee for an intentional distress denim look.  Or cut both legs off at the knees and cuff them up for a nice pair of Bermuda shorts. 
So, instead of running out to buy a new whatever when your old one breaks, try to fix the old one first, and you might just save yourself some cash.

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #22 - Keep Things Maintained

Did you know that owner's manuals can actually save you money?  The much overlooked owner's manual contains everything you need to know in order to maintain your car or slow cooker or hair dryer.  It also usually has parts numbers so that you can order replacement pieces.  This generally isn't the case for electronics like cell phones and computers because the technology is updated so frequently, but for most other appliances you definitely want to reference the manual.  You Tube is another place to look if you are a more visual person.  Just be specific in your search to make sure you have the correct brand and model.
So, why is all this important, and how does it save you money exactly?  Well, say your blender is missing a blade, instead of going out and buying another blender for say $25, you can contact the company and order a replacement blade for around $4.  You just saved yourself 21 bucks.  The manual will also tell you how to keep things up and running, how they can be cleaned properly, and if they need to be greased or oiled.  Not only do things run better when they are maintained correctly, they also last longer.  If you keep the back of your hair dryer clean, the motor inside will run better and not burn up because it couldn't get enough air.  This doesn't just go for small appliances either.  Make sure you are vacuuming out your dryer vents and the coils behind your fridge at least a couple of times a year.  We were given a fridge once that the owner thought was broken and was destined for the garbage.  The real problem was a LOT of dust.  We gave it a good cleaning, let it sit for a few days, and low and behold, it worked just like new. 
Basically if you maintain things, it keeps you from having to buy new things, which cost money.  So, cleaning and maintaining what you already have, saves you money. 

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

Weekly Spending Report: 10/16-22/2016

This week I kept my spending fairly minimal.  I didn't really need anything from ALDI, so I decided to stop into the Dollar Tree instead.  It had been a few weeks since I have been in to look around and see what new things they have.  There were a few things that I had on my list like shelf liner to use in some drawers, but I also was pleasantly surprised to find some new stickers and snacks for Howard.  Overall I think I did pretty good.  Here's how my spending broke down this week...

• Tuesday's CVS Trip: $30.20 oop, Earned $15 ECB's ($5 Huggies, $10 Benefiber)

• Tuesday's Giant Trip: $12.17 oop

• Tuesday's Dollar Tree Trip: $12.48 oop

• Tuesday's Baugher's Trip: $2.99 oop (no picture, just a mini pumpkin and 3 tomatoes)
• Saturday's Dollar Tree Trip: $18.72 oop

Total OOP: $76.56
Total Earned: $15
Total Remaining for October: $109.81

Linked to I Heart Publix, and many more... 

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #21 - Buy Used

My most favorite way to save money is to buy used.  This is mostly because it involves shopping at thrift stores, which are some of my favorite places to shop.  There are always deals to be had, and you see so much interesting stuff - some things worth buying, and some things just worth looking at and wondering what people were thinking.  I definitely recommend taking a list with you so that you don't get side-tracked by all of the shiny things and great prices.  Because most things are an amazing deal, it's very easy to talk yourself into buying something you didn't need when you walked in the door but now are going to die without.  We do not buy everything used, obvious second-hand stores do not sell things like food and toiletries.  I'm also very particular that everything I buy must be able to be washed and sanitized properly - if it can't then I don't buy it.  In addition, I don't buy things like under garments and shoes, but that's just my personal preference, they do sell them if that's your thing.  I have not only found clothing for my son, but also my plus-sized self.  My husband has trouble since he is tall and husky, but he does sometimes get lucky.  I am in LOVE with the household items - I have found such beautiful and unique decor, baskets, and storage over the years.  Howard's favorite section, by far, is the books.  He knows that if he is good he can pick out a few 'new' books before we leave, and at $0.49 a piece you can't really go wrong.
So, the next time you are in need of a new shirt, DVD, book, or wine glass, try to buy used first.  Buying second-hand is guaranteed to save you at least half if not more than buying new, and that's a great way to save money!

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

Frugal Finds: October 2016 Edition

This month we took a day trip up to Hanover just to get out of the house, and to take yet another trip to the thrift store!  I always check the clothes while we're there.  Howard doesn't need much for fall or winter, but he's hard on pajamas, so they are always on my radar.  We also found him these AWESOME activity flash cards by Crayola.  The letter ones have the uppercase and lowercase letter on front, and the back has lines to practice writing them.  There are also a few cards with connect the letters activities on them.  The number cards are similar, and they came with a boat load of dry erase crayons.  This soon-to-be homeschooling mama thought that was a real steal!  I'm also always on the look-out for baskets, this one is HUGE, the picture does not do it justice; it is going to be absolutely perfect for Howard's ever-growing Mega Blocks collection.

1 pair 3T PJ Pants for Howard $1.99 - 50% off Sale = $0.99

2 pair of 5T PJ Pants for Howard $2.99 each - 50% off Sale = $1.49 each or 2/$2.98

Dino Book for Howard $0.99 - 50% off Sale = $0.49

3 Kids DVD's for Howard $2.99 each - 50% off Sale = $1.49 each or 3/$4.47

ABC and 123 Dry Erase Activity Flash Cards for Howard with Dry Erase Crayons (all Crayola brand) $3.99 - 50% off Sale = $1.99

1 Hardback Book for Joe $0.99 - 50% off Sale = $0.49

1 Lock for Joe $4.99 - 50% off Sale = $2.49

1 Large Basket for Mega Blocks $4.99 - Did not get rung up = FREE!

1 Fall Tray for Decor $1.99 - 50% off Sale = $0.99

+ $0.66 Tax

Grand Total OOP: $15.55!  

Saved $36.49!!!

We also made a stop at a flea market this month.  We did lots of looking, but I decided that there were a few things that needed to come home with me...

Beautiful tray I am going to use to store my washi tape in $3
Horse Picture for Howard's room $0.25
Box of ornaments for our Christmas tree $5
Total OOP: $8.25 

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #20 - Make Your Own

Today's tip goes hand in hand with cooking from scratch, but making your own doesn't have to begin and end in the kitchen.  There are so many things that you use in your house that you can make.  And making your own can save you some serious dough.  Pinterest and Google can help you to find recipes or instructions to make just about anything.  Some things that I make that are super simple include floor cleaner, multipurpose spray, face toner, laundry detergent, and shower cleaner.  Do I make everything myself?  Definitely not, I have neither the time nor the patience.  But I make what I can, and for most other things there are sales and coupons to help me save. 
So, the next time you run out of something, do a quick internet search to see if you can make more yourself instead of having to purchase it.  If you do this just once a month, the savings will really add up, and before you know it you'll be making you own everything, or not. 

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #19 - Cut Back

We've discussed a lot of different ways to save money so far this month, all of which will help cut back on your spending.  Another way to cut back though is to just use less.  Cut your dryer sheets and dish sponges in half to get twice the amount for the same money.  I do both, and even though they are smaller, they get the job done just as well.  Use less soap, shampoo, and detergent.  Even if it's only a 1/2 teaspoon, it adds up over time, and you and your clothing will get just as clean.  When cooking make sure to use the correct measurements of the ingredients.  Yes, the more butter you put in to something the better it will taste, but neither the recipe nor your waistline really need it - trust me on this.  So when you are making something or buying something, ask yourself if you really need that amount?  Will less work just as well.  Buying in bulk can sometimes save money, but if you really only need 6 hot cocoa packets, then the box of 50 is really a waste.  Which means you wasted food, but also your money. 

So to save money, cut back on what you can, when you can, and just use less.

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #18 - Go Reusable When You Can

I know, reusable bags don't really save you money, however, other reusable items can.  Think about things you use everyday that are disposable, and thus have to be purchased over and over again, costing you money each time.  Replace these items with reusable options to save money.  Things like plates, cups, and silverware, napkins, cleaning rags, lunch boxes, and even your coffee cup all come in reusable options.  It does cost a little more upfront, and obviously these items need to be washed in order to reuse them, but plenty of people have done the math and reusable options always win out as being cheaper in the end.  Not only that, but it's better for the planet. 
So, to save money, and the Earth, choose reusable options when you can.

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

31 Days of Money-Saving Tips: Day #17 - Freeze Your Leftovers

We've discussed cooking at home to save money, but what do you do when you make too much?  Well, you could pack it for your lunch the next day.  But, what if you've already ate it for 2 days and you need a break?  Well, freeze it for later.  I LOVE to take leftovers and make little homemade TV dinners with them.  You can get some really nice containers (like these or these) from the Dollar Tree just for this purpose.  You could also invest in some nicer Pyrex ones if you like.  It's totally up to you.  So, basically I take my leftovers and divide them out into these little containers, let them cool, label them, and then into the freezer they go.  When I need to pack lunch for work, I just grab one and stick it in the fridge when I get there.  When lunchtime comes I pop it in the microwave, and in about 2 or 3 minutes I have a nice hot, home-cooked meal to enjoy! 
What if you don't have enough leftovers for a meal?  You should freeze them anyway.  I have made different soups and chili's almost completely using bits and bobs from the freezer.  Vegetable soup is an easy one.  I take a freezer bag and whenever we have just a few tablespoons of a vegetable left, I add it to the bag.  Once it's full, I dump the bag into the slow-cooker, add some vegetable or chicken stock, a diced onion, and maybe some pasta or rice (which can be frozen too), and you've got dinner.  It's really that easy.  You can really re-purpose almost any leftover, but that's a post for another day. 
So, how does this save you money?  Well, first of all the food you made is not going to be wasted.  You are finding a new purpose for food that some might throw in the trash.  Secondly, you are getting a night/day off from cooking by just reheating the leftovers.  That's saving you money spent on the electric used to cook another meal, and it's saving you time from having to do it. 
So, freeze your leftovers to not only save yourself some money, but to save time too!

Photos for this series are from Flickr.  They are pictures that are under the license of ‘commercial and mods allowed.’  Edits were done by me.  The licensor does not endorse me or my use.

Link to license is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode

License explanation is here https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/

Menu Plan Monday: 10/17/2016

This past weekend was the Fall Harvest event here at the museum, so things were very busy and a little crazy around these parts.  It was a lot of fun though, and Howard loved seeing the tractors!  Crunch time has officially begun for me - I have tea next week, followed by 2 weeks of Christmas decorating, another tea, baking pies for sale, cleaning and prepping for our family holiday dinner, Thanksgiving, Black Friday shopping, and then two more weeks of tea and Christmas tours, followed by a week of cookie baking and Christmas - I get tired just thinking about the next couple months.  My menu plans will of course reflect the level of craziness going on, and will be super simple, and probably involve a crock-pot - surprise, surprise.

Here's what's on the menu this week...

• Breakfasts: Fruit, Eggs, Cream of Wheat, Bagels, and/or Oatmeal for Me; Pop-Tarts for Joe; Turkey Sausage Links, Mini Muffins, Fruit, and/or Fruit and Grain Bars for Howard
• Lunches: Tomato and Bacon or PBJ Sandwiches, Leftovers, Chips, Veggie Dippers with Ranch, Soup, and/or Fruit for Joe and I.  Howard will have Turkey Sausage links, Cheese Slices, Mac and Cheese cups, Blueberry Pancakes, French Toast, and/or PB Waffles, and Fruit.
• Dinners:
• Sunday - KFC Chicken Tenders/Popcorn Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
• Monday - Crock-pot Meatballs and Marinara, Pasta, Broccoli
• Tuesday - Baked Leftover Pasta and Sauce topped with Cheese, Salad
• Wednesday - Day away in Hanover, so probably Take-out
• Thursday - Crock-pot Pork, Sauerkraut, and Mashed Potatoes
• Friday - Leftovers
  
• Saturday - Pizza, and Salad
  

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!