'I just love being ill-prepared and paying top dollar for everything,' said no one. Ever. And yet, it happens time and again, doesn't it? Admit it. Suddenly you need something right this instant and remember there was a great deal on it.....two weeks ago. So what do you do? Probably grumble and you just hand over your wallet to the cashier and sadly say, 'Here. Just take every last dime.'
It's probably one of the biggest indicators to why our budgets are always a miserable failure. We don't think ahead and we don't prepare like we ought to. If only we could do a better job, we would feel more in control of our money and much more prepared and organized.
That's all about to change and it starts with the Thanksgiving sales. It isn't hard; it's actually a very easy thing to do. Let's walk through the steps.
Buy it now, use it later. Much of the food items that goes on sale now is not limited to Thanksgiving use only. I stock up on some things this time of year because they are a much better price than usual and also because they will come in handy regardless of whether it's Turkey Day or not. Some of what I stock up on includes chicken broth, dressing/stuffing mix (makes excellent bread crumbs and a fantastic dish called Peach Glazed Stuffed Pork Chops. Oh joy!), canned green beans, baking goods like flour, sugar, cookie/brownie/cake mixes, ginger ale, fancy crackers, cream cheese, you get the idea. Buy a few more than you normally do and you've got the start of a well stocked pantry. If you're a turkey lover and you have the space, get an extra one for later this winter. To change things up a bit, just don't serve it with the same trimmings. Try Turkey Tetrazinni, grilled turkey breast with roasted vegetables, sub sandwiches, soups, stews or maybe an artisan salad. The list is endless and you get the idea. If space is limited, try a smaller turkey. Cornish hens, sausage and chicken are also great for stocking up.
There's more to it than food. Not all sales right now are about the food. Manufacturers know that once the feast is over, you've got to store your leftovers or send them home with your guests. Look for great deals on storage containers, zip bags, aluminum foil/plastic wrap, disposable plates and cups. There's also great deals on paper towels and dishwasher soap.
Don't forget to look beyond the season. The days following Thanksgiving will see a dramatic price drop in what is considered 'seasonal' merchandise but you need to think beyond that. Cream, gold and red items can be used any time. I purchase candles and household fragrance items in vanilla, berry and apple to use year round. Wrap a thin ribbon of burlap and a sprig of fir around that vanilla candle and voila! Merry Christmas to you! I just learned the value of having a lighter in the house. Our power went out and because I never replaced the old one, there was no way to light a candle. For about four hours, I growled inside at myself, but I did make up for it by using a coupon and finding a great sale on them (next to the cinnamon candles!) to purchase two.
Take advantage of the Thanksgiving sales (and clearance) to help take care of your future self. Using the same principles, do the same thing after Christmas and New Years Day.
You have an excellent opportunity to stock up on some basic supplies without breaking the bank, but you need to proceed with caution. Never buy more than you can reasonably use or share and never buy more than you can reasonably store. Use some practical sense because you will never need 145 cans of green beans and nobody would want them stored under the tv anyway. Remember to store things in a logical fashion, too. I guarantee if you hide your croutons in the back of your closet on some dark shelf, you will never find them when you need them.
Showing posts with label Frugal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Frugal. Show all posts
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Stretching Your Grocey Budget With Multipurpose Food
When was the last time you left the grocery store and said to yourself, 'Wow! I purchased everything I needed and had tons of money left over?' I'm guessing never. At least not in this decade.
Admit it. Grocery shopping is painful for most of us. I go shopping armed with a plan, a budget, my list and some coupons. My intentions are good and I'll even go so far to say I do a pretty darn good job of feeding my bottomless pits known as children. However, there's always that painful sting I feel at the cash register when I see the total.
The best defense at preventing sticker shock is to purchase as many multipurpose foods as you can. I began doing that in college and have relied on it ever since. These are foods that can be used in a variety of ways without getting boring and are mainly on the healthy side. Combined with sales and coupons, you will stretch your budgetinto infinity even further.
Apples: Raw, chopped in salads and yogurt, sliced with melted cheese on top, dipped in peanut butter or other spreads, thinly sliced on pb &j's or bagels, baked, applesauce.
Roast beef: Main meal, roast beef au jus sandwiches (Meat, cheese, sub sandwich bread, gravy for dipping), thinly sliced in tacos, fajitas and omelets, homemade soups and stews, with rice and spices in lettuce cups/wraps.
Rice: Fried rice, chicken and rice soup, rice pudding, mix with warm milk and add honey/maple syrup, etc. for a nutritious breakfast.
Potatoes: Mashed, baked, oven fried, potato pancakes (add onion, egg, salt and pepper), can use as a thickener in soups and stews (mashed) for added nutrients, baked ones can be sliced and pan fried.
Tortillas: Soft tacos, burritos, baked chips (savory or sweet), shaped and baked to make salad and chili bowls.
Lettuce: Salads, sandwich fillers, lettuce cups and wraps.
Canned chicken: salads, homemade chicken noodle soup, omelets, tacos, burritos.
Eggs: Basic breaksfast dishes, deviled, sandwiches, salads, hard boiled and chopped in Asian noodles or broth bases soups, protein snack before work outs.
The options are endless. Your job is to find basic and simple foods with three or four (or more!) uses. Leftovers are always appreciated in a frugal kitchen but it's also a good idea to ask yourself how much variety you can get from some of the ingredients you already have on hand. Cultivate that list and you won't go hungry.
Admit it. Grocery shopping is painful for most of us. I go shopping armed with a plan, a budget, my list and some coupons. My intentions are good and I'll even go so far to say I do a pretty darn good job of feeding my bottomless pits known as children. However, there's always that painful sting I feel at the cash register when I see the total.
The best defense at preventing sticker shock is to purchase as many multipurpose foods as you can. I began doing that in college and have relied on it ever since. These are foods that can be used in a variety of ways without getting boring and are mainly on the healthy side. Combined with sales and coupons, you will stretch your budget
Apples: Raw, chopped in salads and yogurt, sliced with melted cheese on top, dipped in peanut butter or other spreads, thinly sliced on pb &j's or bagels, baked, applesauce.
Roast beef: Main meal, roast beef au jus sandwiches (Meat, cheese, sub sandwich bread, gravy for dipping), thinly sliced in tacos, fajitas and omelets, homemade soups and stews, with rice and spices in lettuce cups/wraps.
Rice: Fried rice, chicken and rice soup, rice pudding, mix with warm milk and add honey/maple syrup, etc. for a nutritious breakfast.
Potatoes: Mashed, baked, oven fried, potato pancakes (add onion, egg, salt and pepper), can use as a thickener in soups and stews (mashed) for added nutrients, baked ones can be sliced and pan fried.
Tortillas: Soft tacos, burritos, baked chips (savory or sweet), shaped and baked to make salad and chili bowls.
Lettuce: Salads, sandwich fillers, lettuce cups and wraps.
Canned chicken: salads, homemade chicken noodle soup, omelets, tacos, burritos.
Eggs: Basic breaksfast dishes, deviled, sandwiches, salads, hard boiled and chopped in Asian noodles or broth bases soups, protein snack before work outs.
The options are endless. Your job is to find basic and simple foods with three or four (or more!) uses. Leftovers are always appreciated in a frugal kitchen but it's also a good idea to ask yourself how much variety you can get from some of the ingredients you already have on hand. Cultivate that list and you won't go hungry.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
How to Effectively Shop Second Hand
Thrift and consignment stores as well as yard sales offer buyers a great opportunity to get amazing deals. Whether you are trying to reduce your spending budget or looking for things to resale, here is your chance to find fantastic items without watching your wallet cry in agony.
Have a goal. It's perfectly okay to make a spontaneous purchase every now and again. That's how I ended up with a brand new ellipitical machine and a great art print for my reading corner. I certainly would have missed those opportunities. However, let that be your exception, not the norm. Random and spontaneous shopping can lead to a houseful of junk you're never going to use. Always have an idea in mind. A dear friend always shops for furniture with great bones and lots of potential that she can upcycle and sell for a profit. Her shopping list is specific which helps her reach her shopping goals quicker.
Know your product. You don't have to be an expert but you definitely have to possess a fair working knowledge of what you're wanting to buy. That piece of mercury glass probably isn't the rare one you want if it says 'Made in Wherever" on the bottom with smudged ink. A little working knowledge will save you money in the long run.
Carefully inspect the item. You should not assume that everything you see is showroom quality. Bear in mind you are shopping at a second hand establishment and you're going to have to scrutinize everything. Look for stains, uneven seams, faux leather and damage that cannot be repaired. I promise you the little horse logo isn't supposed to have three ears. Make sure electronics work or the expense of repair still makes the item worth buying. Before purchasing my ellipitical machine, hubby and I scrutinized every nook and cranny. The missing manual wasn't an issue because we can just Google that information and the only repairs needed were the tightening of all the screws. Nobody wanted to be bothered with it so we purchased it for pennies on the dollar.
Watch your budget. Just because it's a great price doesn't mean you need to buy it. Never, ever forget that. Buying a $250 print for $10 isn't a great deal if you don't have the wall space for it. You could have used that money for something else of even better value. Don't buy for the sake of buying.
Make sure you know where you're going to put this stuff. Alrighty then, you've bought the best gun cabinet ever. You've carted it home only to discover this behemoth fits nowhere in your house. Okay well maybe it fits in the baby's room but that is both dangerous and weird. Now what do you do? Resell it for a loss? Give it away for an even bigger loss? Leave it outside in the rain? Keep some basic measurements with you when you're shopping. I currently need a new (or new to me) entertainment stand and I'm armed with the dimensions I need to get the best item possible.
Understand the pricing and merchandising schedules. Most second hand stores and consignment venues put out more merchandise on specific days. Price reductions work in the same manner. Get to know some employees and you may be able to reduce the impact on your budget. For yard sales the rule of thumb is simple: the earlier you go, the better the selection. The later you go, the better your chances of haggling the price.
Today's economic climate means more people are both buying and selling second hand. Arm yourself with some knowledge and you will find success at every turn!
Have a goal. It's perfectly okay to make a spontaneous purchase every now and again. That's how I ended up with a brand new ellipitical machine and a great art print for my reading corner. I certainly would have missed those opportunities. However, let that be your exception, not the norm. Random and spontaneous shopping can lead to a houseful of junk you're never going to use. Always have an idea in mind. A dear friend always shops for furniture with great bones and lots of potential that she can upcycle and sell for a profit. Her shopping list is specific which helps her reach her shopping goals quicker.
Know your product. You don't have to be an expert but you definitely have to possess a fair working knowledge of what you're wanting to buy. That piece of mercury glass probably isn't the rare one you want if it says 'Made in Wherever" on the bottom with smudged ink. A little working knowledge will save you money in the long run.
Carefully inspect the item. You should not assume that everything you see is showroom quality. Bear in mind you are shopping at a second hand establishment and you're going to have to scrutinize everything. Look for stains, uneven seams, faux leather and damage that cannot be repaired. I promise you the little horse logo isn't supposed to have three ears. Make sure electronics work or the expense of repair still makes the item worth buying. Before purchasing my ellipitical machine, hubby and I scrutinized every nook and cranny. The missing manual wasn't an issue because we can just Google that information and the only repairs needed were the tightening of all the screws. Nobody wanted to be bothered with it so we purchased it for pennies on the dollar.
Watch your budget. Just because it's a great price doesn't mean you need to buy it. Never, ever forget that. Buying a $250 print for $10 isn't a great deal if you don't have the wall space for it. You could have used that money for something else of even better value. Don't buy for the sake of buying.
Make sure you know where you're going to put this stuff. Alrighty then, you've bought the best gun cabinet ever. You've carted it home only to discover this behemoth fits nowhere in your house. Okay well maybe it fits in the baby's room but that is both dangerous and weird. Now what do you do? Resell it for a loss? Give it away for an even bigger loss? Leave it outside in the rain? Keep some basic measurements with you when you're shopping. I currently need a new (or new to me) entertainment stand and I'm armed with the dimensions I need to get the best item possible.
Understand the pricing and merchandising schedules. Most second hand stores and consignment venues put out more merchandise on specific days. Price reductions work in the same manner. Get to know some employees and you may be able to reduce the impact on your budget. For yard sales the rule of thumb is simple: the earlier you go, the better the selection. The later you go, the better your chances of haggling the price.
Today's economic climate means more people are both buying and selling second hand. Arm yourself with some knowledge and you will find success at every turn!
Monday, July 23, 2012
How to Have Luxuries While Being Frugal
Wanting to have luxuries and wanting to be frugal aren't mutually exclusive. You can actually have them both at the same time and all it takes is a little thought combined with some common sense.
One of the most important factors to achieving some balance between the two concepts is the art of prioritizing. Back in the day when I was single living and working a bazillion hours every week, I still managed to pay for cable. It was one of the most expensive things in my budget but I hung on to it for dear life. I didn't have the financial ability to spend every weekend and Ladies Night at the local night spots and I wasn't spending any money at restaurants. I worked tons of hours so a day off watching a great movie seemed like a little slice of heaven. I pretty much traded some little luxuries I wasn't interested in for the one luxury I did want. The same thing happened with my work clothes. I was required to dress very nicely and I had to look polished. I always had a full closet that made me feel like a million dollars and I barely paid anything. During my lunch hour, I would look through the nearby stores searching the clearance racks and search for sales. That patience paid off time and time again.
It also makes sense to make sure the luxuries are simple. If you cannot give up your muffin-latte habit, you don't have to. Just try buying the muffin one day (make your own java) and the latte the next. I love to crochet and it's important to me because it's very relaxing. Nothing makes me happier than a crisp fall day, a great cup of coffee, and an apple scented candle. Throw in the yarn and I'm so very content. So while it's summer, I'm slowly accumulating some high quality yarn (with half off coupons!) and when the time is right, I'll have what I need for a perfect afternoon.
Sometimes your luxury may require a little delayed gratification. Let's say you want a very chic but insanely expensive piece of electronic equipment. You could go out and buy it right this minute and end up being in a financial pinch for quite some time. Or, you could surf the net looking for sales and competitive prices. Another option would be to wait a few months until the newest revision is available. Now the one you want is going to be marked down while customers clamor to get the upgrade. If your luxury is travel, consider waiting until off-peak season. You would be surprised how much prices fall if you're willing to wait a month or two. That also gives you a little longer to save up.
It doesn't matter if your luxuries are big or small. A weekend trip is just as important as that delightful French pastry from the corner bakery you want every Saturday afternoon. There is so many ways to get those luxuries while being frugal. It's all about cutting out the spending on things you don't care about in order to spend on what you do care about.
One of the most important factors to achieving some balance between the two concepts is the art of prioritizing. Back in the day when I was single living and working a bazillion hours every week, I still managed to pay for cable. It was one of the most expensive things in my budget but I hung on to it for dear life. I didn't have the financial ability to spend every weekend and Ladies Night at the local night spots and I wasn't spending any money at restaurants. I worked tons of hours so a day off watching a great movie seemed like a little slice of heaven. I pretty much traded some little luxuries I wasn't interested in for the one luxury I did want. The same thing happened with my work clothes. I was required to dress very nicely and I had to look polished. I always had a full closet that made me feel like a million dollars and I barely paid anything. During my lunch hour, I would look through the nearby stores searching the clearance racks and search for sales. That patience paid off time and time again.
It also makes sense to make sure the luxuries are simple. If you cannot give up your muffin-latte habit, you don't have to. Just try buying the muffin one day (make your own java) and the latte the next. I love to crochet and it's important to me because it's very relaxing. Nothing makes me happier than a crisp fall day, a great cup of coffee, and an apple scented candle. Throw in the yarn and I'm so very content. So while it's summer, I'm slowly accumulating some high quality yarn (with half off coupons!) and when the time is right, I'll have what I need for a perfect afternoon.
Sometimes your luxury may require a little delayed gratification. Let's say you want a very chic but insanely expensive piece of electronic equipment. You could go out and buy it right this minute and end up being in a financial pinch for quite some time. Or, you could surf the net looking for sales and competitive prices. Another option would be to wait a few months until the newest revision is available. Now the one you want is going to be marked down while customers clamor to get the upgrade. If your luxury is travel, consider waiting until off-peak season. You would be surprised how much prices fall if you're willing to wait a month or two. That also gives you a little longer to save up.
It doesn't matter if your luxuries are big or small. A weekend trip is just as important as that delightful French pastry from the corner bakery you want every Saturday afternoon. There is so many ways to get those luxuries while being frugal. It's all about cutting out the spending on things you don't care about in order to spend on what you do care about.
Friday, July 20, 2012
How to Have a Vacation on a Budget
We all need a vacation but none of us want the bill that comes with it. Is it possible to have an enjoyable vacation without putting it on a credit card or paying an arm and a leg? It's definitely possible as long as you are creative and think outside the box. Like all great vacations, a little preplanning goes a long way.
The first step is to assess what you really want to achieve with your vacation. Most of us would conclude that getting a break and making memories are a priority. A cruise or a trip to a gigantic theme park would be fantastic, to be sure. If that doesn't fit your budget, that's okay. There are lots of options out there.
Let's see, you need a break but it needs to be close to home so that you save on travel expenses like gas and eating out. Have you considered state parks, theme parks closer to home or a simple overnight trip to a nearby destination? One of the most fun times we ever had was a vacation to a local lake. I'm
not sure a three day trip to stay in a cabin at a lake is classified as a vacation by some people, but we had a blast and it was inexpensive. The trip was less than thirty miles away from home but it felt like a whole lot more. Our only expenses were the cabin rental and the food we took, most of which was just taken from our own kitchen. Hiking--or Exploring--as the Little Brother called it, playing on the beach, paddle boat rides, gathering wood for a fire (make that an accidental bonfire), making S'mores and eating outside were a blast. All of it was just ordinary fun, but it seemed exciting and extraordinary. Eating late, searching for constellations among the zillion or so stars not usually seen due to light pollution added to the memories. Sometimes even a day trip will work. My youngest relates to things in a great way. The last thing that happens is the thing that gets the most attention. I think a lot of us are that way. If we take a day trip to the beach, play all day, picnic and then stop for ice cream on the way home, I guarantee he will tell his teacher that his vacation was awesome. If you're going to a local theme park be sure to eat and hydrate before you go to lessen your cravings for the more expensive fare. Be sure to budget for some sweet treats or a souvenier because you're there to have fun, not stick your nose to the windowpane and wish.
What if you want to go out of town? Consider off season travel. Our best times are never summer vacations. We had a blast going to a coastal town in fall while it was still warm and to an Aquarium during Christmas Break. It may be easier to get your vacation time scheduled during the off season since most employees prefer the traditional summer break. Destination places will be busy but less crowded, prices may be a little lower because it's off season and you are less likely to feel rushed. Win-win. If you have kids, consider travelling during fall break, teacher work days, long weekends and part of your holiday vacations. You can pack a lot of fun in three or four days.
Look for as many Vacation Values as you can. We always stay in a business class hotel for this very reason. They are super clean, have breakfast bars (saving time and money), amenities like pools, posh lobbies and fitness areas. Also be sure to stop by the hotel desk. This spring we went to a theme park about two hours from home and stayed overnight. The hotel was offering open-ended tickes to the same place for a very good price. Although, we already had ours we purchased more for a return visit. Our kids think we are rock stars. Hotels often have coupons for restaurants or City Passes that can be purchased once and used at multiple venues. Here's a surprise Vacation Value: Our local grocery store is offering a $50 gas gift card for $40. Sure it is only $10 but I'd rather have it in our pocket than someone elses. If you're travelling by car, stock up on water bottles and non messy snacks. No one wants melted chocolate in the back seat. Our kids appreciate the little things so we will make at least one stop at a convenience store for gum, chips,etc. Just once won't break the bank.
Figure out your spending plan and determine what you can afford. Great memories will be made no matter what you do or where you go. The extra bonus will be knowing you had a lot of fun and the bills won't be facing you when you open the mailbox. Instead of Keeping Up with the Jones, try Keeping Up with the Budget. I guarantee no one will ever look back and say, "Well the campfire would have been more fun if we'd paid more for it."
The first step is to assess what you really want to achieve with your vacation. Most of us would conclude that getting a break and making memories are a priority. A cruise or a trip to a gigantic theme park would be fantastic, to be sure. If that doesn't fit your budget, that's okay. There are lots of options out there.
Let's see, you need a break but it needs to be close to home so that you save on travel expenses like gas and eating out. Have you considered state parks, theme parks closer to home or a simple overnight trip to a nearby destination? One of the most fun times we ever had was a vacation to a local lake. I'm
not sure a three day trip to stay in a cabin at a lake is classified as a vacation by some people, but we had a blast and it was inexpensive. The trip was less than thirty miles away from home but it felt like a whole lot more. Our only expenses were the cabin rental and the food we took, most of which was just taken from our own kitchen. Hiking--or Exploring--as the Little Brother called it, playing on the beach, paddle boat rides, gathering wood for a fire (make that an accidental bonfire), making S'mores and eating outside were a blast. All of it was just ordinary fun, but it seemed exciting and extraordinary. Eating late, searching for constellations among the zillion or so stars not usually seen due to light pollution added to the memories. Sometimes even a day trip will work. My youngest relates to things in a great way. The last thing that happens is the thing that gets the most attention. I think a lot of us are that way. If we take a day trip to the beach, play all day, picnic and then stop for ice cream on the way home, I guarantee he will tell his teacher that his vacation was awesome. If you're going to a local theme park be sure to eat and hydrate before you go to lessen your cravings for the more expensive fare. Be sure to budget for some sweet treats or a souvenier because you're there to have fun, not stick your nose to the windowpane and wish.
What if you want to go out of town? Consider off season travel. Our best times are never summer vacations. We had a blast going to a coastal town in fall while it was still warm and to an Aquarium during Christmas Break. It may be easier to get your vacation time scheduled during the off season since most employees prefer the traditional summer break. Destination places will be busy but less crowded, prices may be a little lower because it's off season and you are less likely to feel rushed. Win-win. If you have kids, consider travelling during fall break, teacher work days, long weekends and part of your holiday vacations. You can pack a lot of fun in three or four days.
Look for as many Vacation Values as you can. We always stay in a business class hotel for this very reason. They are super clean, have breakfast bars (saving time and money), amenities like pools, posh lobbies and fitness areas. Also be sure to stop by the hotel desk. This spring we went to a theme park about two hours from home and stayed overnight. The hotel was offering open-ended tickes to the same place for a very good price. Although, we already had ours we purchased more for a return visit. Our kids think we are rock stars. Hotels often have coupons for restaurants or City Passes that can be purchased once and used at multiple venues. Here's a surprise Vacation Value: Our local grocery store is offering a $50 gas gift card for $40. Sure it is only $10 but I'd rather have it in our pocket than someone elses. If you're travelling by car, stock up on water bottles and non messy snacks. No one wants melted chocolate in the back seat. Our kids appreciate the little things so we will make at least one stop at a convenience store for gum, chips,etc. Just once won't break the bank.
Figure out your spending plan and determine what you can afford. Great memories will be made no matter what you do or where you go. The extra bonus will be knowing you had a lot of fun and the bills won't be facing you when you open the mailbox. Instead of Keeping Up with the Jones, try Keeping Up with the Budget. I guarantee no one will ever look back and say, "Well the campfire would have been more fun if we'd paid more for it."
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Cheap Summer Fun on a Rainy Day
One of my dearest friends has a wonderful family motto: Use what you've got, do what you know. Well, I've got two kids, another rainy day and it's summer. We have some unavoidable, unpleasant expenses we need to take care of so the challenge for me it to give my kids a great day with little or no expense involved. To add to the challenge, my children are six years apart so I've got to make it fun for both.
I bet there's tons of parents everywhere who have the same thing happening, too. It doesn't help that many of us are surrounded by people acting as if the only fun that matters is the fun that costs you a fortune. Well I say, HA! Watch and learn, people, watch and learn.
**1** The dining room table is cleared off for painting and/or Lego projects. Knowing my kids, it will look like some war zone city with Clone Troopers everywhere positioned to do battle.
**2** The box of brownies is waiting on the counter. The little one loves mixing the stuff up and the big one loves eating them. Win-Win.
**3** Books are on the ready. Even the oldest likes taking turns reading from the books the little one likes. I don't care who you are, Junie B. Jones and Diary of a Wimpy Kid is just funny.
**4** And, the video games are ready, too. There' nothing funnier than beating the stuffing out of your mama because she can't figure out how to use the controller. Yes, I will throw down my pride and let my kids make a mockery of my lack of techincal skill.
**5** That's not a jump rope. That is a lake of poisonous fish. Or a lava pit that must be avoided at all costs. Or it's The Lasso of Death.
**6** Picnic under the dining room table in half an hour. Don't be late. It's not really a table anymore. Now it is the dark and scary dungeon where we prisoners must eat our rations and then escape. Because we've got a Lego creation to build on top of the dungeron/table.
**7** It's also Love Your Neighbor Day. We're going to get our umbrella, grab some of the brownies and take them to our neighbor who has been so sad since becoming a widow. The brownies won't make things better, but maybe she'll smile seeing three soaking wet, but smiling faces. And we'll smile because we like playing in the rain. Another Win-Win.
**8** I think it's the perfect day for the kids to fix me lunch. Sure, it will probably be something like a peanut butter sandwich and cookies but, who cares? My second grader thinks this is the funnest thing to do.
If the weather clears up enough, there's a free movie at the library. We also have coupons for free smoothies at a local shop.
I think I've got the day covered but if not, I'll just look into my trusty little Summer Folder which is filled with freebies, calendars, coupons, etc. It totally pays to be just a little prepared for days like this when you're trapped due to bad weather. And if I run out of ideas, then I'll open the floor to the kids and see what they come up with.
I love summer!
I bet there's tons of parents everywhere who have the same thing happening, too. It doesn't help that many of us are surrounded by people acting as if the only fun that matters is the fun that costs you a fortune. Well I say, HA! Watch and learn, people, watch and learn.
**1** The dining room table is cleared off for painting and/or Lego projects. Knowing my kids, it will look like some war zone city with Clone Troopers everywhere positioned to do battle.
**2** The box of brownies is waiting on the counter. The little one loves mixing the stuff up and the big one loves eating them. Win-Win.
**3** Books are on the ready. Even the oldest likes taking turns reading from the books the little one likes. I don't care who you are, Junie B. Jones and Diary of a Wimpy Kid is just funny.
**4** And, the video games are ready, too. There' nothing funnier than beating the stuffing out of your mama because she can't figure out how to use the controller. Yes, I will throw down my pride and let my kids make a mockery of my lack of techincal skill.
**5** That's not a jump rope. That is a lake of poisonous fish. Or a lava pit that must be avoided at all costs. Or it's The Lasso of Death.
**6** Picnic under the dining room table in half an hour. Don't be late. It's not really a table anymore. Now it is the dark and scary dungeon where we prisoners must eat our rations and then escape. Because we've got a Lego creation to build on top of the dungeron/table.
**7** It's also Love Your Neighbor Day. We're going to get our umbrella, grab some of the brownies and take them to our neighbor who has been so sad since becoming a widow. The brownies won't make things better, but maybe she'll smile seeing three soaking wet, but smiling faces. And we'll smile because we like playing in the rain. Another Win-Win.
**8** I think it's the perfect day for the kids to fix me lunch. Sure, it will probably be something like a peanut butter sandwich and cookies but, who cares? My second grader thinks this is the funnest thing to do.
If the weather clears up enough, there's a free movie at the library. We also have coupons for free smoothies at a local shop.
I think I've got the day covered but if not, I'll just look into my trusty little Summer Folder which is filled with freebies, calendars, coupons, etc. It totally pays to be just a little prepared for days like this when you're trapped due to bad weather. And if I run out of ideas, then I'll open the floor to the kids and see what they come up with.
I love summer!
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Scraping the Bottom of The Pantry
Maybe you were in college or perhaps it was when you lived in your first apartment. Or maybe it was yesterday. We all have that moment when we realize, 'Holy cricket! There's nothing in the pantry and payday is about six years from now.'
Well, that's how it feels, anyway.
Most of the time I can pride myself on eating pretty healthy. I'll buy the five pound bag of apples for $2.99 over the $3.49 bag of Doritos on most days. But I'm not exactly some nut butter lovin', organic honey farming, tree hugger either. So I try to feed the family right, but there is some ,uh, stuff just shoved to the back of the cabinet and when you have to eat, then you just have to eat what you've got.
Thanks to a bag of cookies that got mishandled by the little one, I was forced to remove everything from the shelf and clean up the cookie dust. And like all cleaning projects, one thing will always lead to another. And during all this cabinet cleaning, I kept wondering 'What am I going to do with this stuff?' Of course, that got me to thinking that a lot of you do the same thing; there's weird little odds and ends we just don't know how to use up. Here's some of the stuff I found and how I tried to use it wisely. I bet you've got some of the same stuff in your pantry, too.
RAMEN: You have some. You know you do. Don't just boil that stuff then toss it in a bowl. Never ever do that. Try this instead: Add sliced onion and some of last night's meat into the final stage of cooking. Use any kind of leftover meat you have: chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, etc. Add in some leftover greenery (peas, broccoli) and you're good to go. You can also use it as a side dish,
SPAM: You bought some for 'just in case' but it's now shoved in the back of the cabinet, hiding under the ramen noodles. Thinly slice and cook in the frying pan. Add some scrambled eggs and a banana and you are full. My youngest son thinks it's called Breakfast Ham. Or add it to your ramen. How about some Spam Fried Rice? A little bit will go a long way. Just pull it out of the cabinet and start from there. Use a little bit with some eggs, cheese and last night' left over broccoli and you've got an omelet.
SALSA: You got an extra jar from Party Night. Add one cup to your chili for an extra flavor boost. Use as a topping for your baked potato or for your scrambled eggs/omelet. You can also mirowave some in a bowl with a little bit of cheese for a chip and veggie dip.
FLOUR TORTILLAS: Very lightly coat with butter and then sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, or something savory like garlic and paprika. Cut into thin strips and bake until crispy.
CEREAL: Just crumble that stuff up and put on pudding, ice cream and yogurt.
RICE: If there isn't enough for a family meal (or leftovers in the fridge) make a single serving of rice pudding. Better, still, is to reheat with a dash of milk. Add honey and you've got a very filling and yummy breaksfast.
LEFT OVER CHIPS: This makes a great topping for homemade soups, stews, casseroles, and chili. Also, it's pretty good crumpled up on homemade sub sandwiches. It's got a little snap and crunch that makes it fun for the little ones.
BAKING GOODS: Little bits of baking goods like coconut, nuts, chocolate/butterscotch/peanut butter chips can be used in oatmeal and yogurt. You can also use these things as the base for your own homemade trail mix. Pudding and cake mixes make excellent cookies.
My frugal, logical self will not allow me to throw this stuff out; I bought if for one reason or another, so I'm going to use it. I won't say it's gourmet but I will tell you that necessity is the mother of invention and some pretty good meals can come from getting clever with the left overs.
Dare I say it? Bon apetit!
Well, that's how it feels, anyway.
Most of the time I can pride myself on eating pretty healthy. I'll buy the five pound bag of apples for $2.99 over the $3.49 bag of Doritos on most days. But I'm not exactly some nut butter lovin', organic honey farming, tree hugger either. So I try to feed the family right, but there is some ,uh, stuff just shoved to the back of the cabinet and when you have to eat, then you just have to eat what you've got.
Thanks to a bag of cookies that got mishandled by the little one, I was forced to remove everything from the shelf and clean up the cookie dust. And like all cleaning projects, one thing will always lead to another. And during all this cabinet cleaning, I kept wondering 'What am I going to do with this stuff?' Of course, that got me to thinking that a lot of you do the same thing; there's weird little odds and ends we just don't know how to use up. Here's some of the stuff I found and how I tried to use it wisely. I bet you've got some of the same stuff in your pantry, too.
RAMEN: You have some. You know you do. Don't just boil that stuff then toss it in a bowl. Never ever do that. Try this instead: Add sliced onion and some of last night's meat into the final stage of cooking. Use any kind of leftover meat you have: chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, etc. Add in some leftover greenery (peas, broccoli) and you're good to go. You can also use it as a side dish,
SPAM: You bought some for 'just in case' but it's now shoved in the back of the cabinet, hiding under the ramen noodles. Thinly slice and cook in the frying pan. Add some scrambled eggs and a banana and you are full. My youngest son thinks it's called Breakfast Ham. Or add it to your ramen. How about some Spam Fried Rice? A little bit will go a long way. Just pull it out of the cabinet and start from there. Use a little bit with some eggs, cheese and last night' left over broccoli and you've got an omelet.
SALSA: You got an extra jar from Party Night. Add one cup to your chili for an extra flavor boost. Use as a topping for your baked potato or for your scrambled eggs/omelet. You can also mirowave some in a bowl with a little bit of cheese for a chip and veggie dip.
FLOUR TORTILLAS: Very lightly coat with butter and then sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, or something savory like garlic and paprika. Cut into thin strips and bake until crispy.
CEREAL: Just crumble that stuff up and put on pudding, ice cream and yogurt.
RICE: If there isn't enough for a family meal (or leftovers in the fridge) make a single serving of rice pudding. Better, still, is to reheat with a dash of milk. Add honey and you've got a very filling and yummy breaksfast.
LEFT OVER CHIPS: This makes a great topping for homemade soups, stews, casseroles, and chili. Also, it's pretty good crumpled up on homemade sub sandwiches. It's got a little snap and crunch that makes it fun for the little ones.
BAKING GOODS: Little bits of baking goods like coconut, nuts, chocolate/butterscotch/peanut butter chips can be used in oatmeal and yogurt. You can also use these things as the base for your own homemade trail mix. Pudding and cake mixes make excellent cookies.
My frugal, logical self will not allow me to throw this stuff out; I bought if for one reason or another, so I'm going to use it. I won't say it's gourmet but I will tell you that necessity is the mother of invention and some pretty good meals can come from getting clever with the left overs.
Dare I say it? Bon apetit!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Taking Advantage of Winter Savings
Even though prices on everything are going up, there are still ways to protect yourself against a painful drain on your wallet. By taking advantage of winter clearance and current sales you can create a buffer between you and those escalating prices.
The first step is to get a basic idea of what you are shopping for. Do you want to restock your pantry? Are you looking for end-of-season fashion bargains? What about your gift closet? Take five minutes to get an idea of what you need. Now is not the time to go off track, causing yourself to spend a fortune.
Next, quickly look through your coupons or discount codes. There's no need to make this an all day event; just get a good idea of what you have that you can use to increase your savings even more. Obviously, if you can purchase something for next to nothing, be my guest. Just don't work yourself into a tizzy. Currently, one of our local stores is going out of business. Thankfully, they are allowing coupons. Here is my chance to stock up on some basic pantry items. Though the shelves were nearly empty, I still managed to get a few things including cereal, vitamins, coffee and canned goods. Here is where you don't want to go overboard. I'm not knocking her choices, but the lady that bought an entire cart full of chunky soup had me worried.
If it's clothing you're interested in, now is the time to get your winter gear ready for next year. For adults that won't likely change sizes, restocking gloves, winter socks or clothing in classic styles will be beneficial. Many stores are filling the shelves with summer wear and are desperate to get rid of the winter stock. Expect clearance sales of 75 percent off---or more. If you're looking for bargains for your youngster, try picking items that have a little 'give' if the sizing is a little too big or small. Things like pajama pants, scarves, socks, etc. will do the trick. Just remember to stock up on what you feel comfortable with.
Also remember to think outside the box. I won't be baking a turkey this week, but the clearance bag of cornbread stuffing can be crushed into more flavorful breadcrumbs than my usual blend. Holiday candies are a good buy, also. We could care less about what color the wrapper on the mini chocolate bars are. But if you do, just open the bags and separate out what you need. Red and silver wrapped candies are perfect of Fourth of July. Eat the pink wrapped ones now. Or chop those little candy bars into toppings for sundaes and cupcakes.
If you're looking for household items, remember, just because it's holiday clearance items doesn't mean it's Christmas themed stuff. Snowflake covered flannel sheets would work all winter.
Now is a great time to build a little buffer between you and the economy. Use promotions and end of season clearance items to wisely get a jump start on next winter's needs.
I guarantee you will not regret an attempt to get ahead and cut down on the stress of trying to meet your needs in advance.
The first step is to get a basic idea of what you are shopping for. Do you want to restock your pantry? Are you looking for end-of-season fashion bargains? What about your gift closet? Take five minutes to get an idea of what you need. Now is not the time to go off track, causing yourself to spend a fortune.
Next, quickly look through your coupons or discount codes. There's no need to make this an all day event; just get a good idea of what you have that you can use to increase your savings even more. Obviously, if you can purchase something for next to nothing, be my guest. Just don't work yourself into a tizzy. Currently, one of our local stores is going out of business. Thankfully, they are allowing coupons. Here is my chance to stock up on some basic pantry items. Though the shelves were nearly empty, I still managed to get a few things including cereal, vitamins, coffee and canned goods. Here is where you don't want to go overboard. I'm not knocking her choices, but the lady that bought an entire cart full of chunky soup had me worried.
If it's clothing you're interested in, now is the time to get your winter gear ready for next year. For adults that won't likely change sizes, restocking gloves, winter socks or clothing in classic styles will be beneficial. Many stores are filling the shelves with summer wear and are desperate to get rid of the winter stock. Expect clearance sales of 75 percent off---or more. If you're looking for bargains for your youngster, try picking items that have a little 'give' if the sizing is a little too big or small. Things like pajama pants, scarves, socks, etc. will do the trick. Just remember to stock up on what you feel comfortable with.
Also remember to think outside the box. I won't be baking a turkey this week, but the clearance bag of cornbread stuffing can be crushed into more flavorful breadcrumbs than my usual blend. Holiday candies are a good buy, also. We could care less about what color the wrapper on the mini chocolate bars are. But if you do, just open the bags and separate out what you need. Red and silver wrapped candies are perfect of Fourth of July. Eat the pink wrapped ones now. Or chop those little candy bars into toppings for sundaes and cupcakes.
If you're looking for household items, remember, just because it's holiday clearance items doesn't mean it's Christmas themed stuff. Snowflake covered flannel sheets would work all winter.
Now is a great time to build a little buffer between you and the economy. Use promotions and end of season clearance items to wisely get a jump start on next winter's needs.
I guarantee you will not regret an attempt to get ahead and cut down on the stress of trying to meet your needs in advance.
Friday, July 1, 2011
From the Kitchen: Creative Leftovers
I love saving time and money. I do not love eating the exact same thing over and over again. The trick to eating leftovers--and liking it-- it to use them in a way that is very different from the original dish. Recently, I've come across all kinds of things in the fridge and here is how my family 'recycled' them.
MEATLOAF-- I admit it, I don't enjoy meatloaf sandwiches. However, when cubed or crumbled, it makes a great addition to pasta sauce. The kids didn't even realize it was the same meatloaf they cringed at two days earlier. Love it!
RICE: I chopped up some onion and leftover cooked carrots into some olive oil with a tiny bit of butter. Once the onions were done to my liking, I added some leftover rice and a very small amount of low sodioum soy sauce. Once that was ready, I pushed it to the side of the pan and scrambled some eggs in the empty space then mixed it all together. I also used half of a pork chop sliced into small pieces. Pork fried rice in about 10 minutes. Wonderfully simple and the kids gobbled it up.
STRAY VEGGIES: This is the easiest and cheapest thing ever. Take every stray vegetable you find and turn it into broth. I did this today and it was crazy simple. During this past week, I froze remaining vegetables for this very purpose. This included broccoli, green beans, and corn. I tossed this in the pot with as many other vegetables as I could find: three potatoes, three tomatoes, half a bell pepper, one onion, a sweet potato, fresh corn cut off the cob as well as all the juice scraped off the cob with the back of the knife. It wasn't very elegant. Just chopped up and tossed in the pot, skins and all. Next, I added some multi purpose spice, garlic powder and a little fresh rosemary. I covered with water and cooked it for about 2 hours. You are trying to leech out every flavor and vitamin possible so the broth will be very dark and rich looking. Taste it and add whatever you like. Cool and strain through a collander as many times as needed until you're left with a wonderful broth that you can freeze in appropriate sized portions. Use for soups, stews or any recipe that requires water.
YOGURT: If this is getting close to the expiration date, blend with fresh fruit, a little honey and ice for a smoothie. Or layer with granola for a parfait.
EGGS: If you're not craving something scrambled, try supper omelets filled with leftover veggies with a bit of cheese or some salsa.
STEAK: Slice thinly and cook with cubed potatoes, onions and peppers for a skillet dish that's restaurant-worthy. This also works with any kind of sausage, pork or chicken.
I thought I was saving money by having leftovers. Unfortunately, I was throwing away money because they weren't being eaten. I had to find away to make them more palatable. It isn't too hard to get creative with your leftovers. Just use what you have and do what you know. For me it's almost a game. I just tell myself, 'You've got such and such. Now how quickly and you do something with that so that no one recognizes it from last Tuesday.' It will only take you a few minutes to pull together something creative, different and tasty. You will get the satisfaction of having a great meal for a fraction of the restaurant cost and without the wait.
Bon Apetite!
MEATLOAF-- I admit it, I don't enjoy meatloaf sandwiches. However, when cubed or crumbled, it makes a great addition to pasta sauce. The kids didn't even realize it was the same meatloaf they cringed at two days earlier. Love it!
RICE: I chopped up some onion and leftover cooked carrots into some olive oil with a tiny bit of butter. Once the onions were done to my liking, I added some leftover rice and a very small amount of low sodioum soy sauce. Once that was ready, I pushed it to the side of the pan and scrambled some eggs in the empty space then mixed it all together. I also used half of a pork chop sliced into small pieces. Pork fried rice in about 10 minutes. Wonderfully simple and the kids gobbled it up.
STRAY VEGGIES: This is the easiest and cheapest thing ever. Take every stray vegetable you find and turn it into broth. I did this today and it was crazy simple. During this past week, I froze remaining vegetables for this very purpose. This included broccoli, green beans, and corn. I tossed this in the pot with as many other vegetables as I could find: three potatoes, three tomatoes, half a bell pepper, one onion, a sweet potato, fresh corn cut off the cob as well as all the juice scraped off the cob with the back of the knife. It wasn't very elegant. Just chopped up and tossed in the pot, skins and all. Next, I added some multi purpose spice, garlic powder and a little fresh rosemary. I covered with water and cooked it for about 2 hours. You are trying to leech out every flavor and vitamin possible so the broth will be very dark and rich looking. Taste it and add whatever you like. Cool and strain through a collander as many times as needed until you're left with a wonderful broth that you can freeze in appropriate sized portions. Use for soups, stews or any recipe that requires water.
YOGURT: If this is getting close to the expiration date, blend with fresh fruit, a little honey and ice for a smoothie. Or layer with granola for a parfait.
EGGS: If you're not craving something scrambled, try supper omelets filled with leftover veggies with a bit of cheese or some salsa.
STEAK: Slice thinly and cook with cubed potatoes, onions and peppers for a skillet dish that's restaurant-worthy. This also works with any kind of sausage, pork or chicken.
I thought I was saving money by having leftovers. Unfortunately, I was throwing away money because they weren't being eaten. I had to find away to make them more palatable. It isn't too hard to get creative with your leftovers. Just use what you have and do what you know. For me it's almost a game. I just tell myself, 'You've got such and such. Now how quickly and you do something with that so that no one recognizes it from last Tuesday.' It will only take you a few minutes to pull together something creative, different and tasty. You will get the satisfaction of having a great meal for a fraction of the restaurant cost and without the wait.
Bon Apetite!
Friday, June 10, 2011
When Thrifty Collides with Convenience
Let's suppose you're in a rush to get to work so you grab one of those single serving cereal bowls from the grocery store and plan to eat it at your desk using a quart of milk you have in the company refrigerator. Not including tax, you've probably spent about $2.50. That's not too bad, you say. Now if you had chosen to eat the same breakfast at home, it would have cost about $1.50. If you did that every day at work, you've spent $250 annually more than usual.
Let's also suppose you've had a long day and as your family sets down to dinner, you set the table with paper plates and cups. You just don't feel like washing dishes or rinsing them off for the dishwasher. You'd rather put your feet up and catch the news.
Does either scenario make you feel like a money wasting, environmental failure? Should you feel guilty?
The answer is no.
Every day we are constantly making decisions and trying to balance out our lives with the world swirling around us. There will be times when we remember to cut off the lights upstairs to conserve energy then turn around and drink from a water bottle. We're going to have days when picking up some chicken from the Colonel is way easier (and much less economical) than preparing it ourselves. I don't condone doing it every day. That would only lead you to the poor house. I am saying that sometimes the bigger picture is what counts; that's how you keep your sanity.
I confess, I used disposable diapers, food came out of tiny little jars and one of my children used formula. Also, I will admit one of my children wore a lot of gently used clothes from the older sibling and was breastfed. And, gasp! fewer toys were purchased for the younger one because we realized with the first one that kids really do like the boxes better than the toys.
It isn't a contradiction in character. It is the essence of the definition for being frugal: Mindful spending and in many cases, mindful living. You cut corners (financial or otherwise) to invest where it's more important on that particular day. It's okay for me to use a commercial air freshener today because I'm not getting out in the freezing cold or scorching heat to buy essential oils just for this one project. If you want to eat yogurt that comes in environmentally evil plastic cups, go ahead. I give thee permission.
This post has evolved because I have noticed lately the superior air surrounding some people when they make their own compost or ride their bikes to work. It is my opinion that it is rather difficult to live 'one way or the other.' The tree huggers may be vegan and use no chemicals while the gluttons use up a ton of gasoline and never cut off the lights. But I guarantee you, there is a bigger crossover than you may realize.
My advice is to live mindfully every day. Do the best you can with the tools you've got. And if you're tired, go ahead and order that greasy pizza in the cardboard box that you're going to forget to recycle. Just get back on track after you've rested.
Let's also suppose you've had a long day and as your family sets down to dinner, you set the table with paper plates and cups. You just don't feel like washing dishes or rinsing them off for the dishwasher. You'd rather put your feet up and catch the news.
Does either scenario make you feel like a money wasting, environmental failure? Should you feel guilty?
The answer is no.
Every day we are constantly making decisions and trying to balance out our lives with the world swirling around us. There will be times when we remember to cut off the lights upstairs to conserve energy then turn around and drink from a water bottle. We're going to have days when picking up some chicken from the Colonel is way easier (and much less economical) than preparing it ourselves. I don't condone doing it every day. That would only lead you to the poor house. I am saying that sometimes the bigger picture is what counts; that's how you keep your sanity.
I confess, I used disposable diapers, food came out of tiny little jars and one of my children used formula. Also, I will admit one of my children wore a lot of gently used clothes from the older sibling and was breastfed. And, gasp! fewer toys were purchased for the younger one because we realized with the first one that kids really do like the boxes better than the toys.
It isn't a contradiction in character. It is the essence of the definition for being frugal: Mindful spending and in many cases, mindful living. You cut corners (financial or otherwise) to invest where it's more important on that particular day. It's okay for me to use a commercial air freshener today because I'm not getting out in the freezing cold or scorching heat to buy essential oils just for this one project. If you want to eat yogurt that comes in environmentally evil plastic cups, go ahead. I give thee permission.
This post has evolved because I have noticed lately the superior air surrounding some people when they make their own compost or ride their bikes to work. It is my opinion that it is rather difficult to live 'one way or the other.' The tree huggers may be vegan and use no chemicals while the gluttons use up a ton of gasoline and never cut off the lights. But I guarantee you, there is a bigger crossover than you may realize.
My advice is to live mindfully every day. Do the best you can with the tools you've got. And if you're tired, go ahead and order that greasy pizza in the cardboard box that you're going to forget to recycle. Just get back on track after you've rested.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Quick Meals Made from Leftovers
I like a great meal that is fast, tastes great and is good for you. The key word is 'fast.' It's also important that I stretch my grocery budget as far as possible, so leftovers need to be used. Even though I like eating leftovers, sometimes I just don't want the exact same meal. Here are a few of my favorites that seem to appear often during our summer meals.
Chicken is a staple in our house and it makes a great Grilled Chicken Pizza. Take any leftover chicken such as grilled, rotisserie or barbecued and shred or cut into small pieces. Toss in a pan with some carmelized red onion and add your favorite barbecue sauce. Heat through to let the flavors blend. Adding some green bell peppers while carmelizing the onions will add a lovely color. Next, throw it on top of a premade pizza crust and add some mozzarella. Heat according to package directions and add some fresh fruit or a crunchy salad.
We tend to eat rice on a frequent basis so there's always a bowl of it sitting in the refrigerator. Toss in a pan with a tiny bit of olive oil. Add some leftover vegetables or any vegetable that will cook quickly (yellow squash, zucchini). Add some scallions, a little soy sauce and you have the base of a simple vegetable fried rice. For an extra boost you can toss in an egg that gets scrambled in the rice as well as some thinly sliced left over pork chops, chicken or even shrimp. Clean up will be a snap and it will taste amazing. It's a one-bowl wonder.
Sometimes, Upside Down Day just works best and we eat breakfast for supper. Take those leftover vegetables and make an omelette. It will be tasty, colorful and good for you.
Another easy use for vegetables is to make a nice broth to freeze for future use. Simply collect up every leftover vegetable you have. The bigger variety, the better the broth. You can also use peelings also. It can't be any easier. Just throw it all into a huge pot and cover with water. Add all your favorite spices and cook. It will reduce and the liquid will get a rich, intense color. When it tastes just right, you're done. Drain and cool. Freeze in two-cup portions and don't forget to label. This is perfect for soups, stews, potatoes, rice or any place you would typically use water in a recipe.
Every now and then we will have a meatloaf and nobody in our house will eat a meatloaf sandwich. We crumble it and add to spaghetti sauce. We also crumble it up, add some salsa and Mexican spices and now it's taco and burrito filling.
Leftovers do not have to be boring and tedious. They can be your salvation after a long day and you just don't feel like cooking from scratch. Bon Apetit!
Chicken is a staple in our house and it makes a great Grilled Chicken Pizza. Take any leftover chicken such as grilled, rotisserie or barbecued and shred or cut into small pieces. Toss in a pan with some carmelized red onion and add your favorite barbecue sauce. Heat through to let the flavors blend. Adding some green bell peppers while carmelizing the onions will add a lovely color. Next, throw it on top of a premade pizza crust and add some mozzarella. Heat according to package directions and add some fresh fruit or a crunchy salad.
We tend to eat rice on a frequent basis so there's always a bowl of it sitting in the refrigerator. Toss in a pan with a tiny bit of olive oil. Add some leftover vegetables or any vegetable that will cook quickly (yellow squash, zucchini). Add some scallions, a little soy sauce and you have the base of a simple vegetable fried rice. For an extra boost you can toss in an egg that gets scrambled in the rice as well as some thinly sliced left over pork chops, chicken or even shrimp. Clean up will be a snap and it will taste amazing. It's a one-bowl wonder.
Sometimes, Upside Down Day just works best and we eat breakfast for supper. Take those leftover vegetables and make an omelette. It will be tasty, colorful and good for you.
Another easy use for vegetables is to make a nice broth to freeze for future use. Simply collect up every leftover vegetable you have. The bigger variety, the better the broth. You can also use peelings also. It can't be any easier. Just throw it all into a huge pot and cover with water. Add all your favorite spices and cook. It will reduce and the liquid will get a rich, intense color. When it tastes just right, you're done. Drain and cool. Freeze in two-cup portions and don't forget to label. This is perfect for soups, stews, potatoes, rice or any place you would typically use water in a recipe.
Every now and then we will have a meatloaf and nobody in our house will eat a meatloaf sandwich. We crumble it and add to spaghetti sauce. We also crumble it up, add some salsa and Mexican spices and now it's taco and burrito filling.
Leftovers do not have to be boring and tedious. They can be your salvation after a long day and you just don't feel like cooking from scratch. Bon Apetit!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Back To School Savings Start Now
In many parts of the country, schools have let out for summer. It's the golden days of sleeping late, barbecues with friends and enjoying our vacations. My own family is having a blast and enjoying every lazy minute possible. We're also getting ready for back to school. I know. We just put away the backpacks and are slathered on sunscreen. Why on earth would we even want to remotely think about school?
Because it saves us time and money. And it's really, really easy.
If you purchase what you need just a little at a time, then you aren't going to feel the crunch later. Luckily, there are a lot of bargains now so you don't have to wait until the last two weeks of summer for a sale. Here is a look at our family's back to school game plan. It is easy to follow and even easier to modify to suit your own needs.
I want to get as much back to school stuff out of the way and do it as painlessly as possible. I don't want to spend all my time hunting things down and I don't want to spend a fortune, either. The local schools send out a supply list with the reports cards (it's also on the Board of Education website). I keep a copy of those lists in my purse. If I come across a great value then I'll buy it, cross it off the list and put it in the Supply Box in the closet. I'm also going to slowly pick up the standard things all students need: glue sticks, pencils, rulers, some posterboard, etc. I'm not going to get this all at once. I'll buy a little something this week, maybe something next week. I'm just doing this in my own time, and making no special trips to the store. This also gives me plenty of time to go back and double check to make sure I've got everything.
One of my children takes lunch to school and both love their afternoon snacks. During the summer months, there are big sales on snack foods, juice pouches and peanut butter. Look for items with a long shelf life. Use your coupons to get these things for the summer and get an extra package to put away for the school year. Since we are in high gear with picnic season, also look for plastic forks and spoons to tuck in their lunchboxes. With a small amount of diligence you can literally stockpile enough snacks and drinks to get you through to Christmas break. Just be sure to place them in a place the kids can't get to. Also look for sandwich and snack -sized sip bags, reusable juice boxes, cold packs, lunch boxes and a thermos. Don't forget to use your sales and coupons. Remember to pick up an extra lunch box because they have a tendency to be forgotten at school.
Shopping for back to school clothes is supposed to be fun, not a headache. After all, it symbolizes a new chapter in your child's life. Buy the shoes early. It may not be the most frugal thing you do, but it will preserve your sanity. One year I waited until about three days before the school bell rang and I suffered because of it. My son always has a hard time finding a proper, comfortable fit and I should have known better. We were hot, frustrated, tired, and just plain mad after shopping several hours everyday looking for a good shoe. Never again. I get those knocked out about a month before school starts. In our area, the weather will be hot until mid October. When the traditional back to school clothes (i.e. long sleeves) hit the racks, the summer clothes will end up on the sales racks. If you have a Next Size Up box, shop there first. Next, grab a few shorts and tops here and there. Don't forget to check out some high-end resale shops. I have a 'Save $5 off a $25 purchase of kids' clothing' gift card that I'm going to combine with a clearance sale. I should be able to walk away with several outfits. I'm also going to use some register-printed coupons to stock up on socks and underwear. There is no need to buy an entire wardrobe. Most of the clothes your child is wearing will still fit at the beginning of the new school year. Combined with a few new things and you should be set for a while. Taking your climate into consideration, you may also need a few pairs of pants and a lightweight jacket in the event you get an early cold snap.
My kids and I enjoy every second of summer. I don't want to spend the last days running around in an unhappy crowd of frustrated and cranky people, searching for everything under the sun. I would rather take those last days and use them for vacation, movies, or just hugging my kids and playing games all day.
Because it saves us time and money. And it's really, really easy.
If you purchase what you need just a little at a time, then you aren't going to feel the crunch later. Luckily, there are a lot of bargains now so you don't have to wait until the last two weeks of summer for a sale. Here is a look at our family's back to school game plan. It is easy to follow and even easier to modify to suit your own needs.
I want to get as much back to school stuff out of the way and do it as painlessly as possible. I don't want to spend all my time hunting things down and I don't want to spend a fortune, either. The local schools send out a supply list with the reports cards (it's also on the Board of Education website). I keep a copy of those lists in my purse. If I come across a great value then I'll buy it, cross it off the list and put it in the Supply Box in the closet. I'm also going to slowly pick up the standard things all students need: glue sticks, pencils, rulers, some posterboard, etc. I'm not going to get this all at once. I'll buy a little something this week, maybe something next week. I'm just doing this in my own time, and making no special trips to the store. This also gives me plenty of time to go back and double check to make sure I've got everything.
One of my children takes lunch to school and both love their afternoon snacks. During the summer months, there are big sales on snack foods, juice pouches and peanut butter. Look for items with a long shelf life. Use your coupons to get these things for the summer and get an extra package to put away for the school year. Since we are in high gear with picnic season, also look for plastic forks and spoons to tuck in their lunchboxes. With a small amount of diligence you can literally stockpile enough snacks and drinks to get you through to Christmas break. Just be sure to place them in a place the kids can't get to. Also look for sandwich and snack -sized sip bags, reusable juice boxes, cold packs, lunch boxes and a thermos. Don't forget to use your sales and coupons. Remember to pick up an extra lunch box because they have a tendency to be forgotten at school.
Shopping for back to school clothes is supposed to be fun, not a headache. After all, it symbolizes a new chapter in your child's life. Buy the shoes early. It may not be the most frugal thing you do, but it will preserve your sanity. One year I waited until about three days before the school bell rang and I suffered because of it. My son always has a hard time finding a proper, comfortable fit and I should have known better. We were hot, frustrated, tired, and just plain mad after shopping several hours everyday looking for a good shoe. Never again. I get those knocked out about a month before school starts. In our area, the weather will be hot until mid October. When the traditional back to school clothes (i.e. long sleeves) hit the racks, the summer clothes will end up on the sales racks. If you have a Next Size Up box, shop there first. Next, grab a few shorts and tops here and there. Don't forget to check out some high-end resale shops. I have a 'Save $5 off a $25 purchase of kids' clothing' gift card that I'm going to combine with a clearance sale. I should be able to walk away with several outfits. I'm also going to use some register-printed coupons to stock up on socks and underwear. There is no need to buy an entire wardrobe. Most of the clothes your child is wearing will still fit at the beginning of the new school year. Combined with a few new things and you should be set for a while. Taking your climate into consideration, you may also need a few pairs of pants and a lightweight jacket in the event you get an early cold snap.
My kids and I enjoy every second of summer. I don't want to spend the last days running around in an unhappy crowd of frustrated and cranky people, searching for everything under the sun. I would rather take those last days and use them for vacation, movies, or just hugging my kids and playing games all day.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Inexpensive Summer Fun For Kids
My family lives in a part of the country where most schools are already over for the year and the temperatures are soaring. Summer has officially arrived. Some days are perfect for getting outdoors and playing to our hearts' content. Other days are too sweltering to be out there. We want to have fun, not risk a heat stroke. I tend to get all errands and outdoor play completeted early. Then, it's indoors for more playtime and perhaps a movie. I like to have things on hand for both indoor and outdoor fun. I use two separate containers for these purposes. You could use beach totes, reusable grocery bags or anything that will suit your space and needs. Obviously, if you have a huge supply, you need a larger container. I look for things all year long so that I'm not scrambling for things to do at the last moment.
OUTDOOR FUN
**1** Bubbles, giant bubble wands, inexpensive bubble machines
**2** Sidewalk chalk. Little ones just like drawing, big ones can get quite artistic
**3** Water sprinkler
**4** Frisbee, ball, outdoor gaming toys
**5** Sunscreen
**6** Pinwheels
**7** Bug inspection kits
**8** Buckets, shovels
**9** Sunglasses
**10** Water bottles
**11** Empty dishwashing detergent bottles and spray bottles for water fights
INDOOR FUN
**1** Markers, crayons
**2** Coloring books, puzzle books, sketch pads
**3** Jigsaw puzzles
**4** Tiny games from kiddie meals
**5** Play Doh
**6** Tub toys (yes, for the middle of the day. Why not?)
**7** Books
**8** Board games
**9** Glue, construction paper, popsicle sticks,etc
**10** Stickers for the little ones
**11** Movie (think clearance, yard sale)
You probably have quite a bit of these things already on hand. So did I. The key is to make it feel summertime special. I looked through my secret stash for the kiddie meal toys. I rotated out some of the little toys and games from storage. I picked up the rest for a very small amount of money at those Dollar Bins at the front of many stores. Some things were just 'leftovers.' For some reason there is just something funny about putting together a Christmas jigsaw puzzle when it's 95 degrees outside. It was a leftover from a kids holiday gift basket I made last year.
It doesn't have to be expensive. It just has to have variety and presented in a fashion that lets your wee ones feel like it is special. Perhaps it's something you use every day or maybe it's something you pull out on days when the kids are bored. Your kids will think you are awesome.
OUTDOOR FUN
**1** Bubbles, giant bubble wands, inexpensive bubble machines
**2** Sidewalk chalk. Little ones just like drawing, big ones can get quite artistic
**3** Water sprinkler
**4** Frisbee, ball, outdoor gaming toys
**5** Sunscreen
**6** Pinwheels
**7** Bug inspection kits
**8** Buckets, shovels
**9** Sunglasses
**10** Water bottles
**11** Empty dishwashing detergent bottles and spray bottles for water fights
INDOOR FUN
**1** Markers, crayons
**2** Coloring books, puzzle books, sketch pads
**3** Jigsaw puzzles
**4** Tiny games from kiddie meals
**5** Play Doh
**6** Tub toys (yes, for the middle of the day. Why not?)
**7** Books
**8** Board games
**9** Glue, construction paper, popsicle sticks,etc
**10** Stickers for the little ones
**11** Movie (think clearance, yard sale)
You probably have quite a bit of these things already on hand. So did I. The key is to make it feel summertime special. I looked through my secret stash for the kiddie meal toys. I rotated out some of the little toys and games from storage. I picked up the rest for a very small amount of money at those Dollar Bins at the front of many stores. Some things were just 'leftovers.' For some reason there is just something funny about putting together a Christmas jigsaw puzzle when it's 95 degrees outside. It was a leftover from a kids holiday gift basket I made last year.
It doesn't have to be expensive. It just has to have variety and presented in a fashion that lets your wee ones feel like it is special. Perhaps it's something you use every day or maybe it's something you pull out on days when the kids are bored. Your kids will think you are awesome.
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