Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Shopping in a Smart Way

Last week was February vacation for me. I have to admit I went shopping. BUT, I went to some of the local consignment shops and goodwills. I am all for buying newish things at low, low prices.

 Some of the highlighted buys for me -
BCBG sweater
The limited wrap-around sweater
Abercrombie cords
Banana republic sweater

Overall, I got some good buys! None of the clothes were above $7.

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Recycling – Things That Help Me and the Environment

There are a few smart things that I re-use that I want to share. These are frugal and useful to me.

1. TV dinner trays – I clean them out and use them as drawer organizers.

2. Condiment to-go holders – every time I get sides such as salsa or sour cream from restaurants, I always wash and re-use them. They are great for when I have salads for lunch, they hold the exact amount of salad dressing I need.

3. Plastic to-go containers – some of the restaurants actually use plastic containers to send meals home. I clean it out and use it again.

4. Egg containers – these are versatile. You can use them to organize drawers, jewelry, or sewing materials.

5. Plastic containers (such as large coffee containers or cat litter containers) – these are great for a lot of different things. Sometimes I use them to organize things in my office or odds and ends.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Good Read - The Total Money Makeover

The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey was a good read.

I like to read a good book relating money, finances, frugality at least once a month. I have found that it helps me stay on track with saving money and not over-indulging.

His book really helped me to think about debt. We all have some form - whether it is college loans, mortgage, or car loans. Nevertheless, he speaks about reducing debt as quickly as you can. Now, that sounds easier said than done, but he spoke about a couple of things that hit close to home. The first is 'stuffits', which is basically means buying and wanting stuff. The end product of ‘stuffits’ is basically that, too much stuff that means nothing to you. I do this all the time, I will be out shopping and have to have that purse or picture frame. The bottom line is - that is where savings/paying down debt is broken down. Second, I know so many people who NEED to have the best of things - stereo equipment, new cars, and the best clothes. Again, that impacts your bottom line - saving and paying down debt.

The book really helped me see that I would have a sense of personal peace, the less debt I have. Most people want this, but don't have this motto. My goal for 2010 has been to save money - the book helped me remember this.

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Do you sew?

I do! What a great way to fix or repair things that might otherwise be thrown in the trash. I learned when I was a little girl in 4H. But it can be an easy self-taught hobby that can save you money here and there. I lost count on the number of times me and my husband had buttons fall off our shirts. My dogs are so rough on their toys, I am constantly repairing them. Sewing is definitely a skill that remains essential - as far as I am concerned.