Mending and Making Them Last~Sock "Darning"

Clothing is a huge expense in our lives. Let's face it! Since Adam, we have needed some type of clothing to cover us, and with the costs rising and our resources shrinking, we need to find ways to put some extra life into the ones we have for just a few more wearings!

Do you know how to darn a sock, sew on a button, mend a broken seam?  These three ESSENTIAL skills are cost savers in the home.
 My mother, Betty says that if we mend and fix then we get more life to an item and then we can save our money for items when we find sales or in the thrift stores.

Consider this for a minute.  You have some socks that belong to your hubby.  He's got a hole in about 5 of the socks in his collection.  BTW~are you buying the same color and style? This is a huge saver too! I can see the need for specialty socks for say, athletics, but for everyday~make an easy match: same color and brand.  This will make matching and cleaning easier too~so much less time!  But there is a hole in five of the pairs of socks.  Do you just throw it out? Sometimes a sock will literally discentegrate, but let me say that you can fix this too with the right methods.  The idea is to use it up~EVER hear me that THAT before?? We want to use every little bit we can so that we can utilize our resources, our money to the fullest extent.

Great Reasons to Mend~

Here's How:

For a hole that needs "darning:"  You will need a light bulb, perferably a burned out one so if it drops you have lost nothing useful other than your "darning tool,"(you can purchase a "darning egg" which is a wooden egg, but this works fine.  Just be sure not to break the bulb as you work!), a darning needle, and some matching soft fine yarn (match the color of the sock.  The match is they key to success as well as "darning" in a smooth way!

Here's that video which the news report referred to ;-))

Darning socks is really a cost saver and will prevent having to throw even the store version away~Did you catch what was said about the commercially made ones? hmmm...anyway, these can be "darned" too!

I will post again about sewing buttons and seams~for now, hunt down those socks that need attention and "darn" them!

darning socks=saving green$

Winter Preparedness~Furnace and Fuels

Heat!

I love to be warm.  In my first home, which was a 1968 mobile home which I payed cash for and sold two years later for the same, was heated by fuel oil.  It had a huge tank that sat behind the house and each winter at least twice I'd call the "fuel man" to come and put in what I needed so I could run my furnace and stay warm.  This was in my early days of singlehood and I was so proud of my home!  That little trailor was so unlike the modular homes of today.  It has roll out windows, no carpet~but tile flooring and acutal paneling and wood cabinetry.  I loved it except that it was only 8 feet wide~CAN YOU IMAGINE?  God has really blessed me in the 25 years since! But in those days I had to put plastic over my windows to shut out the winter chill, and I also had to roll up towels at the doors to keep out winds.  I used insulated curtains too!

While I no longer live in such a tiny home, praise God with my family of four, I do still use some of those methods to keep us safe and warm each year! Let me say we are blessed with double glass high efficiency windows with storms so I am not rolling the plastic out, visqueen over them anymore! But if you have old windows, invest in a good heavy plastic and cover them up.  Use roll shades instead of miniblinds to block drafts and for more insulation, use insulated drapes.  This will keep the cold from coming in and heat from escaping!

For door drafts: I like weatherstripping, but if I can't do that, I use a rug or roll an old towel to keep out drafts as best we can.  There is a roll type insulated curtain you can purchase to insulate door areas, but I don't have this system.  We do have old doors in this home we are redoing, and hubby is trying to redo the back door...it sticks and while has fresh paint, it's not tight in the frame.  I was given a beautiful antique door, farmhouse style with custom stained glass work from a dear friend. Hubby has promised to rework the antique door and weatherstrip it for us this year! The kicker is we have 6 exterior doors LOL! Our home was originally a duplex! So it's three on each side!!  Well, I am excited to be replacing this kitchen door for this very pretty one!

Exterior light and electrical covers.  Think of the draft that this can let into your home! Be sure they are covered with approved covers~we don't want any fires! I can feel the air flowing through a couple of mine...I need to see to this quick!

Furnace filters.  Replace and clean this area~it's amazing how much dirt can accumulate here! (I couldn't resist this pic~it's a good example of what kinds of filth loom in areas we don't think about! The best furnace filers we ever had are the electrostatic ones...love those for getting out time little stuff!)

Ducts and duct covers.  I was looking at our church duct covers and realized they need cleaning...I need to purchase some as some were too destroyed as part of the overall poor condition of our home, but before I install new ones, I can reach as far as I can to vacuum and clean the duct with a damp cloth.  NO water! Just a way to wipe the surface for a fresh duct...of course there are pro duct cleaning services~I like to do it this way!

Wood burning stoves and fireplaces require maintence too.  Have you had your chimney inspected?  It's wise to do this every so often and cleaned to build ups don't cause fires.  Do you have all the wood you will need?  If not wood, wood pellets or coal or whatever?  Now is the time to prepare!  I do have a gas cook top stove so this would help some, but no real heat source...we are working on this though as I do own a Ben Franklin stove that would be great somewhere in our home...stoke the stove and letter roar!!



I like to have additonal heat sources available to me in case our gas furnace or lights go out.  Last year in KY was the worst ice storm on record and many people were plain miserable! I don't have a generator, but it's a good idea if you live in temps like we do that get into the below single digits!!

Being prepared now makes winter months go more smoothly when icy winds and chills are present.  Check on your windows, heat source, doors~weatherstripping and if you have an additional heat source! Better now than sorry!

Winter Time Prepardness

There's already snow in some areas of he United States in an early blast of cold frigid temps! I am looking at my home and thinking I had better get it in gear to make our home winter ready...we live in a climate of snow and ice~blustery winds with a chill of often 30 below...it's harsh condition such as these that require some measures to keep us warm and safe in winter.

My hubby has been doing repairs to our home's siding and windows.  If you don't know, we recently purchased our home, a repo that was a great deal financially for our family with the goal of becoming 100% debt free in five years, so that an older home with needed repairs was the way to go in this "buyers market." But along with this purchase came needed and REQUIRED repairs.  (Be sure to calculate these costs into your home's sales price if you are looking to purchase a home like this...but for the handy, it's very economical...more on this another time!)  So we have a cracked window and a storm window missing.  Today, the window is going to the glass shop and the storm will have to be replaced.  It's not salvagable!  Along with these, I am going to put up a check list of things, some maintence, and others just plain ole housekeeping to get us ready for winter...STAY WARM!

Evaluate your bedding situation.
Do you have enough blankets and comforters to keep the beds warm at night? We turn down our thermostat at night, and this makes for cooler sleeping and needed bedding.  Do you purchase or make your bedding? Begin crocheting or quilting or even shopping for what you need.  We like electric blankets.  I invested in one for each bed several years ago.  Also consider if you lose power.  If you do or don't have an alternate heat source, covers on a bed will make a great difference in comfort and possibly survival...

1. Crocheting a blanket.

2. Quilting a blanket.

3. Purchasing a blanket, quilt or electric blanket.

Links 

for Crochet:

Crochet Pattern Central
For warmer blankets, I like 100% cotton yarn:
Peaches and Cream 100% cotton yarns
Wool  and Acrylic yarns
Lion Brand Yarn

for Quilting:
Love to Know~Quick and Easy Quilting
 I've made something not unlike this quick and easy quilt which I have heard called a "cheater quilt."  The biggest difference in the size of the project is this~the size of the pieces of fabric (front and backs with batting) you are working with.  I made both my children 'cheater quilts' about seven or eight years ago. 

Cheryl's Cheater Quilt Method:

Chose two coordinating patterned or one solid, one patterned fabrics.
Purchase 1 and 1/2 yards OF EACH TWICE~this may sound silly, but let the fabric store lady cut two pieces of your fabrics 1 1/2 yds each.
Do this for both top and bottom.  You should have six yards total.
Purchase batting whichever loft for a twin bed.
Bring home and wash the fabrics to preshrink and release dyes.
Take one of the either top or bottom fabric 11/2 yd pieces and cut down the center vertically.
(You should have two long 1/2 width pieces of your fabric now.) Do this for the other as well.
With right sides together, stitch the salvage edges of one top side fabric to the other side so that when pressed and opened, the pattern is facing each.  You will do both sides of the unsplit 11/2 piece with the split 1/1/2 pieces.  This will make your top or bottom a double width of the fabric width your purchased either 36" x2!  Press open all the seams! This will lay ever so nicely on a twin bed as the seems will fall to the edges.
Do the other fabric the same way.
When both are stitched up, then go to your bed or the largest bed  in your home OR on a large table or carpeted floor. I like to use a big bed.
With right side facing the bedspread, lay the bottom fabric down on the bed.  You will see the seams of the bottom where you have pressed them open. 
On top, lay the batting for the quilt you purchased.
Then facing the ceiling, lay the top of the quilt top onto the layers.
Use quilting pins to secure all over.
Begin at the center and work to the edges to smooth any wrinkles.  Pin as you go.
When you get to the outer edges, roll the top over the bottom for a "rolled edge" where the top is seen on the bottom. Pin all the way around to secure your quilt.

The first handsewing you will do is to hand sew with a 'whip stitch" around the edges of this quilt. Short close together stitches with double thread in the needle will work to secure the blanket tighter and will be less likely to come apart. 

There are a couple of options for securing the inside of this quilt:
1. You can stitch around (quilt) any repeating motif in the pattern.  For my daughters, there were butterflies, so I did a certain colored butterfly.
OR
2. You can use a very large bore needle and yarn, running it through all layers and tying it in square knots.
OR
3. You can use flat buttons of any shape, color or variety if you like. If you have them too ;-))
OR
4. You can hand stitch lines like a grid pattern to hold the layers.

Once your quilt is all secure, you are ready to place it on your bed.  These are very nice, and I have found much more durable than purchased comforters which with washing generally come apart.

For purchased blankets, I suggest shopping sales.  I like yard/garage sales and thrift stores as well. To match color schemes, I have made covers for my blankets and comforters to keep costs down.

Stay warm and let's all get prepared for winter's chill with checking on our bedding for the season!

Making $ At Home

The title is not deceptive~you can MAKE MONEY at home~by saving it!

The day arrived, and you were "downsized", layed off or your job went away for now, for good, and you are home for the first time in years if ever in your adult life. It's shocking really for those who have worked all of their adult lives since college or high school to find that what was once thought of as stable employment could vanish in moments~the moments it takes for a supervisor or boss to say those dreaded words, "we no longer need..." And there you are heading home. Home. But the bills? What about your income? What are you going to do now that your income is drastically reduced and in some instances, absent? There is a certain shock and grief that accompanies such major changes in our lives. Time and perseverance will prevail in making the changes to adapt, to find new ways of living and making it until such time the money either returns or life is adjusted and the security returns.

Time~Now you have something you didn't have when you were working. It's what the wealthy love to purchase for themselves that working people find little of or can afford~Time is a wonderful asset in our lives. Do you have projects that you didn't have the time to do? Do you have things you've wanted to learn but found too tiring after a long day at the job? Can you invest in those you love with more time and energy than before you were jobless? If taking on the gift of time and utilizing it to the fullest is possible, there has been a wonderful gift given in the loss of the job~a restructure of priorities and abilities. Sure, money is tight, but with some skills less can be more and then it's even MORE because you have time on your side to add to the wealth of investing in the things that matter: people and God. Did you ever wish you had time for something, but the job called you away?

Activities that can be done in the time you now had are endless~HERE are some suggestions:

Learn to fix wholesome foods that are not instant but budget boosting as instant foods are neither as healthy as cost a whole lot more.

Take up a hobbie or skill you've always dreamed of pursuing but had no time or energy to do. Have you wanted to play the piano, and have one? What about painting or sketching? Gardening? Crochet, knitting, sewing, quilting, weaving, felting, beading, writing, organizing, decorating, refinishing furniture, picking up your old band instrument and playing, singing, learning a foreign language, reading, card making, scrapbooking, photography, web design, blogging, teaching a class at church or other volunteer effort: Red Cross, YMCA, local hospital, Hospices, nursing or retirement homes, writing overseas military and more! It's endless~WHAT have you been dreaming of doing? Nature walks, camping, fishing, swimming, exercising of every variety, jogging, jumping rope, belly dancing, aerobics...ENDLESS!

You now have the time to invest into your family in a way to keep money from going out the door~to do as Ben Franklin said, that a penny saved is a penny earned~when you save~you are earning. Time will afford you the opportunities to do the tasks that will save money in the long run while labor intensive, but in the past working created a deficit in time to do these...

Mending clothing instead of buying more~wearing them out.
Making gifts instead of purchasing items~it's the thought that really does count!
Gardening and preserving foods for health and cost savings. I'll tell you about our garden and what it has done for our family...
Carefully plotting all the expenditures including trips out of the home with the vehicle for fuel~can you go more than one place on that trip by making several stops along the way? Can you coast to stop signs and start slowly~it does help make fuel last a bit longer not to push so heavy on the pedal...You're not in a huge hurry now, so take your time!
Shop carefully and spend very slowly for items. KNOW prices~I've written a whole post on this!
Make lists, make menus, make calendars and schedules~manage your home as if it were your job...
Calculate how much laundry and how much soap~use the clothes line and air dry...you have time now!
Research how to save as much as possible with ideas such as my Using It UP ideas...Find all the ways you can to keep the money you have in your pocket...
Carry cash only. Count every coin~find every coin~consider every coin!
Shop the secondary market as much as possible; you can check prices at many locations or sellers. Get the best price possible. Garage/Yard sale~second hand store and consignments although these will be higher priced except for sales...KNOW those prices! AND pay only what you know an item is worth~what your research shows it to be worth. Don't rely upon the seller's insight of value~they want our money!
Join recycling groups, civic groups, and church activities~net work...you have TIME!
Swap and borrow items with friends if possible. I don't really like doing this with some things...but it can be a huge help!
Clear out the clutter as you haven't had time before~and sell it or donate it. If you donate, remember that you will be blessed as you give...it's best to give than receive I believe!
Visit the sick, elderly, lonely, shut ins, friends, family and anyone who would enjoy your company~you have time now...

Having time now will mean that while the possibilies are endless as I've just demonstrated, you must make a priority list so that you will not just flail from place to place, but operate on a path that will meet with your household's goals. I haven't mentioned anything about children, but now you can pay much closer attention than ever before to their needs~consider all the options with your children: homeschooling and home training. Both are essential. I am a homeschool parent, so I am 100% in favor of this investment of time into my kid's lives, but if you have not done this, have had your baby in day care or another form of school~bring your child home and NOW you have time for so much that will benefit your little one!

Our garden efforts were greatly enhanced this year by several methods. First we planned to have one and started our own seeds. Now we had to purchase some needs, and will again, but we have planned already by saving seeds and containers so we will be ready in late Feb to plant~I've begun composting too to enrich our soil...but here's what happened this year~the yeild has been amazing! Right now I have 32 quarts of tomatoes in the freezer! I am still getting tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, banana peppers, yellow squash, Japanese pumpkins, CELERY, salad greens, green onions, egg plant...well, it's just delishous! And tonight for supper I used one pound of ground beef, some olive oil that I purchased at a dent can store (damaged packaging store that sells for about 1/2), fresh garlic, and from my garden all veggies except cuccumbers, tomatoes, and the pumpkin. I added a cereal bowl of frozen veggies (carrots, broccoli and cauliflower) to the mix along with salad greens, with soy sauce, black pepper and we had a very good stir fry...I cut up a cucumer/tomato salad where everyone could chose either dressing or none! This meal was less than $3 for four people because of our fresh produce! But it took and takes time~last night I worked 3 hours to chop 2 gallons of tomatos for the freezer! So time is a factor!! I will freeze the peppers and prepare the pumpkin for the freezer...all time consuming, but in the long run, we had a healthy cost saving meal!

Use your time that you invested in someone elses' business to take care of your HOME~make money by saving the outflow and outgo of your capital...if you are single without additional resources, you will want to consider additional methods of making or brining in new money into the home as you will have to have income...some anyway...

Did I mention taking a class? I found this site that has some great ideas: http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://extension.unh.edu/news/growmony.jpg&imgrefurl=http://extension.unh.edu/news/2007/02/a_little_money_saved_goes_a_lo.html&usg=__g7XMXakTtSYy5vhqbr80tbhW9VA=&h=600&w=400&sz=61&hl=EN&start=11&sig2=wR3DnGxUWeCeGR9LPdBSfg&tbnid=0E1EseHJviTKEM:&tbnh=135&tbnw=90&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dmoney%2Bsaved%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3DEN&ei=Q6KgSvGRC43hlAfPy7X1DA Look at the left side bar~there's great reads!

Managing my money so it will stay with me!

Beating the Blues With No Green$

I love Blues music. Growing up in the south has acquainted me with the saltry sounds of blues, jazz and southern rock for years. . .there's a sadness, a cry to it underneath the tones that soothes and calms...Without sound finances, the blues could be more than a genre of music for us who are living on less than we once had or less than we had hoped or less than is adequate for our "needs." So how do we beat these blues without green$ or money? Many people find that the ability to do things that cost money, to bring loads of "joy:"travel, possessions, experiences and more can suddenly be out of reach and now there's a need~a void where something once was that NOW may or may not ever return...how can we be happy and joyful, beating the blues without the green$?



Here are some ideas:

1. Consider our 'mindset' to think about what's really important or satisfies.

I wrote about this an entry or so back...what satisfies you? Is it touchable by human hands or is it something that is inward, inside your being that does this? The ability to be satisfied is rooted in our priorities. God should be our number one, but then where do the other areas find their place in our lives? Prioritize the things and ideals of this life...

2. Create a plan to do something with what we already have as a ready and able resource. Huh?

Yes, look at what is available and within our grasp that we might not be utilizing to its fullest. Do we have a deck or porch, an out door swing? Get on it and listen to the birds! Sit in the sunshine for a few minutes and breathe the fresh air! Does it need scrubbing? Go do that! Sidewalk? Sweep it~clean it, edge it... While outside, hear, smell and feel all of God's beautiful nature! Take a walk. Pick wild flowers by the side of the road (as long as it's legal to do so!) Do you have a bike? Take a ride! Craft items unused~get them out~work on a project...does your office or school room or den or kitchen pantry need organizing? WHAT about creating something in the kitchen to eat? Do you cook? What is there to do? What is there to use up and or re-purpose for another item! Find a way to use those ready and able resources that are just THERE without us using them~busy hands and minds lifts the spirit!

3. Concert with true joy!

Music with positive effects will chase the blues and beat it! Turn on music when you can...I like a quiet home with the sounds so low that you literally hear the dog snore, birds sing and keyboard keys clicking, but some homes have the noise of the television and radio constantly around them. Is NOISE a problem? If so, quieten down the atmosphere. If quiet is too much, then add some musical sound~I like online radio and radio theature. I always have liked a good radio drama or story. I enjoy a dramatic reading of books and the Bible. These can be found online or at the libray to be borrowed for FREE~

4. Creation~God's showcase!

Living with a sense of the wonder of God and creation beats the blues with no green$ I have enjoyed looking at the sky from time to time. Did you ever like I did lay in the grass and watch the cloud formations change with the breezes to create different looks that could be most anything my imagination could see? I love looking and watching a sunset, sunrise and the moon cycle. I like star gazing and have been known to check out when mediaorite showers were occurring or other night sky activities. Appreciating God's creation lends itself beyond skyward watching but into all of nature. I love wildlife. We have a bunny living in our back yard~little wonder if our garden didn't survive, but my hubby put wire around it at the level his ears would have touched and he didn't like it, so he's pretty much left it alone! But I love bunnies and dear and raccoons, possums, beavers, badgers. . . I like turtles, not snakes so much or lizards, but most else...they are amazing! I enjoy the seasons watching our follage change with the times...ALL this stuff is FREE! Amazing that the greatest amusements are not man contrived and are true budget boosters!

5. Camp out for fun!

Do you camp? I am not a tent camper. In fact, we own an old OLD hard side shell camper with air just because I am not a real rough it kind of gal...but for vacationing, it's really less to go to state and national park camping sites for a few~going rates now for full hook ups are around $15-20 per night...Camping in the rough without bathhouses is less. . . I CAN see why! ;-)) But when we have vacationed, the camper provided our own home with our own facilities for minimal money. How cheap can you go? Is a good question here~but since I like to go this way...it works for us...tent camping if you already own it, or if you can borrow it or get it for a song is really less! But camping can really make travel affordable~and relaxation back to nature!

6. simpliCity~

Simplicity~I just realized that on my kitchen table is a mayo jar that we had cleaned out~I save these for bulk spices and left over storage in the fridge as well as craft projects and even kid science~bug homes! This jar has some wildflowers in it that I am certain my son went out and found beautiful that he has brought home to share with all of us. Simple? YES! But I wouldn't trade my mayo jar-vase and my son's flowers for the nicest boquet of roses I could be given~there's love in that bunch of flowers from a son to his family~simple? Oh yes...but also priceless! I've written about all kinds of things that can be used for things they were not originally intended for in their uses~but do the trick inexpensively...simplicity is an art form of simple which can lend itself to clean and oderly. Less really is more!

7. Cool cost saving water!

Water is a cost saver! Drinking water is healthy and loads healthier than almost any other fluid we can consume. First by drinking water, we will save on all the other drinks that we've been socially conditioned to drink...LET ME SEE...CoolAid, CokaCola, Pepsi, CountryTime, Tea-many brands...somehow have come to equate wealth or a sense of having, but as our ancestors and even the original peoples of society knew, water is at the VERY core of all of life! Drinking it is the best thing not only money but health wise...OH I forgot the very fashionable pricy coffees these days...I happen to not like coffee, so this is no draw for me~but it's a challenge to drink water, but so so sooo good to do so...whole towns and cities grew around clean and good water sources~now we can truck or pipe it in...the desert regions are populated...but water is essential to survival and it definitely beats the blues! Just turn on the tap...chilled or not...mmmm, it's so wonderful!

8. Celebrations can be cost savers

They need not break the bank! Simplicity is the key here too! But inviting friends and family into our lives to share our joys and even our sorrows beats the blues. Fixing a simple meal, desert or just a glass of tea or water. . .now our culture says we generally offer something! But it need not be elaborate! Gatherings can perk up the spirit. I like Christmas open houses, or New Year's Eve gatherings~these can be fun!

9. Country roads and rides...

Going for a drive~I like long country roads with nothing but trees and nature. My favorite road is called Stagecoach Road in Bloomingdale, GA where it once was an actual stagecoach trail with double ruts where wheels were pulled by horses...today it's paved from one end to the other and has grown with houses, but as a child riding this with my parents taught me so much about the landscape of how people travels before cars and the modern highway system...the trees overhung to the point of brushing our old stationwagon...the canopy was dense over where it was shady and cool. . . Where can you find the past in the view of your vehicle? These kinds of rides beat the blues by bringing a sense of wonder and curiosity~who was here? What did they do? Where did they go? I also like..OK, I am weird...cemetaries. I love old and historical ones with old old old old headstones and markers...I want to KNOW the people of the past...this must be part of my love for history! I am not saddened by these places as death is part of life, but find in the types of remembrances in the markers a testament to those who once lived. I come from a city full of history, but really no matter where you live, whether it's "historical" or not, it ALL is history...all places, people and things have a story to tell. . .I guess I just want to know...I care...So get out like I and find your community's history and story...these are pricess!

10. Contribute...

Tell your own story~share something about yourself or even share yourself. You can blog like I am doing~which is virtually free-we already have the items needed in computer and internet sevices, but sign up to share pieces of what you uniquely bring to others. . .visit retirement or rest homes for added boosts of busting the blues...in giving there is more receiving! I've never given that I ever received less than what I gave! God has seen to this in my life~and even in my most depleated worn out state, He has shown me that what I gave returned multifold. But share, give and reach out to someone~there's no price in this kind of love and goodness! AND it's generally free on our end of it...of we give of ourselves to show love with either listening or helping~can we volunteer in an effort to help? Can we show a help to someone who needs to know they are loved? Beating the blues can happen without money!

What are you doing to beat the blues, the depression that can accompany an economic downturn? What are you trying, have tried and how's it working?

Singing a little song and beating the blues...

Clunker Cars Could Be Less Costly~

I know it sounds radical to say that the old worn car you are driving is costing less than the much marketed and politically correct greater fuel efficient models out there! But payments are huge~and especially if you have to make them when you didn't have them to begin with. I recognize the benefit of purchasing new cars or newer used cars IF you have the cash to make the deal. Cash or a great amount if it for a lower down payment plus shopping the market can yield the best deal going. Without a great deal, even with the government rebate, the payments will be huge and quite a challenge when one never knows from day to day if we will have jobs...but if we have cash, to trade in that "clunker" then go a head and buy a better fuel economy vehicle if the costs will be less. Buying with cash, AFTER you check out all the pricing by comparing all the features to other prices and features can get you the best value for your hard earned buck. The theory was to stimulate our economy with car sales, save on fuel consumption and get old "clunkers" off the roads, but is it really a DEAL?

If you have to make payments, and the dealerships have either raised the prices or are not lowering with other rebates, then the overall price, while it initially might look like a bargain, may not be, but pricing spread out over time! If you acquire a payment~can you really afford it? THIS IS THE HUGE QUESTION.

So I went looking at fuel efficiency for a cost per year analysis of whether or not trading in the old clunker would benefit over the cost of payments for the new and improved car.

I found a calculator for fuel costs at Walmart.com http://instoresnow.walmart.com/Community.aspx?id=105 to calculate a yearly savings. It showed a vehicle driving 12,000 miles per year at 20 miles per gallon costing $2340.00 year in fuel, while a 30 mile per gallon vehicle would cost $1560.00 per year with an annual saving of $780.00 on gas. NOW I ask you this: CAN you pay car payments that cheaply? Car payments average much higher than $65.00 per month than the costs of the additional fuel costs!! Just a thought and one to consider when thinking of such a purchase~CONSIDER all the factors! The only real cash for clunker stipulation is that it had to be drivable onto the lot. Remember that car maintenance is an issue with ownership not just fuel pricing. The maintenance of a vehicle is costly and older vehicles do require more, but do these costs justify high payments?

A SAVING STRATEGY:

If you do not currently have payments, look for ways to begin tucking back and saving money for the inevitable need to replace your vehicle. Designate funds especially for a "new car fund" so that you can be ready to, if at all possible purchase with cash. Buying with cashing will give you are bargaining chip that is a great asset in negotiating prices and there are no payments. It's a win win for sure! But if your vehicle is not going to last long enough to save up the total amount needed, then save what you can, and begin shopping. . .SHOPPING but NOT BUYING~don't let the salesman talk you into a car...just look and look and look...watch the papers, look everywhere and keep saving. Don't get hooked into being a certain salesman's customer either. In shopping your loyalty is to yourself. I hate to say that, but it's a sales tactic to get us to purchase sooner rather than later~remember salesmen need to make money, and the money they hope to make is ours! So beware and keep looking, but offer no hope of any sale any time soon while you are gathering features and prices. Look online too for prices. I know people who shop all over their state and in other states for best prices. Consider all the options. Credit scores won't apply if you are buying with cash! AND if you still have to borrow, save as much cash as you can, as you shop, THEN purchase!

Just some thoughts on this "cash for clunkers" deal that could really cost people MORE in the long run than any kickback the government is offering!

Still hanging onto my money~taking care so it won't leave me!

Staying in Line. . .or On the Lines...or Lining UP!

You can chose today's headline for my thoughts today from my laundry "palace" where I don my 'fairy status' to get my family's duds all cleaned and prepared for another round of life!

With the washer swishing, the dryer dinging, and yup~the clothesline full~laundry is getting done as fast and best I can with my budget in mind.

If you don't have a clothes line, you could be missing a wonderful opportunity to save on your laundry expenses each month! Line drying is good for the really heavy items like towels, blankets, and blue jeans...not to mention the scent of freshness that the sunshine offers. If you've ever dealt with soured clothing or strong odors such as garlic, then you know how hard it is to get fresh smelling cloth from normal cleansing...try hanging it in the open air~not under a tree, but open where the breezes and sunshine can get to it...I used to hang all my white uniforms to keep them whitened because bleach can yellow some fabrics when I was working as a nurse. Of course these were the days when nurses wore white! But the only real draw back I can think of to line drying could be allergies for most situations, and of course weather...clothes won't dry in WET weather~duh!! lol!

Be sure that you monitor the weather when your clothing is out~rain water doesn't "hurt" it, but it can make the drying time a whole lot longer...

I sent out two huge loads...yeah, we use this many towels...and my hubby reminds me of a 70% chance of rain~well, I am monitoring the situation: any drying time is better than none! AND I can bring in "almost" dry towels and clothing and throw in the dryer to soften if they don't get totally dry. Note that your towels will be rougher, and if you will consider this, it could be a benefit for your skin...it will remove more dead cells and create softer skin~now if you have a condition that this would not benefit, I'd use what my doctor has recommends~but if not~give it a try! I have also put up drying racks and lines inside our home before as well! This was in a situation where our dryer was down~and it's not only rain that is a problem~clothes freezing on the line are no good too ;-))

Do you have a place? Can you string up a line or two to save some on your costs?

I have used the bathroom shower bar to hang clothes hangers with wet clothing~be sure and shake and straighten out the item before you leave it to dry...or it will need ironing! Oh how I detest this most! But if you hang your items carefully on the line or hangers, they will come out nice and ready to be either folded or placed in the closet...be sure the items are thoroughly dry too: they will sour and smell if not adequately dried before storage! Feel all over the article of clothing~especially the thicker areas like cuffs and collars, pockets and hems! BE SURE they are dry before storage!!

Another tip in clothes line procedures is to use care in hanging unmentionables~I always dry these in my dryer, but when I have not had access to one~in the past, I would hang these on inside lines between other clothing or items...I personally don't want to see peoples "drawers" on the line drying! It's too personal, but hanging them where they are privately drying is a good solution...call it PRIDE! ;-))

Line drying might be extreme~yes, some of the suggestions I make are that for sure~but if we want to consider thrift practices that are solid ways to live on less we should look at all the options~and remember this: it's not been all that many years that it was common practice~the ONLY practice for drying was line drying!

Hanging Out today~watching the sky~enjoying the breeze!

Having It ALL Means...

What? I mean...WHAT does having it all mean? There's so many definitions out there, and it's truly different for everyone. I was asked IF I could have anything what would it be? You know, like the question of the three wishes granted, kind of thing...well, I wouldn't know...I have what I need and much of what I want...although I could *think* of a few items, they were really insignificant. No. Seriously. What does "Having It ALL" mean to you?

Think for a moment. What's on your list that will make you fulfilled and satisfied? Is it things untouchable by human hands and only touchable by human hearts, or is it those things that rust and moths doeth corrupt? While each of us has a different idea, it's essential to figure out for our time here in this world just what is important to us.

Living on a budget need not limit the "ALL" that many wish to obtain. Actually budget living can help provide the means to obtain some on each side~heart and hands of having. When we learn to live within our set standards of living, it can make it an easier reality to either get by with less when times are lean or to save in the times of plenty so that in a future time, the wants and desires might be gained. But it all starts with thinking about what the "ALL" is for each of us.

We have been sold "down the county line" in the name of making a buck by marketers who are seeking to sell us their wares. It's not entirely bad or immoral that marketing exists! I just hate to see marketing that isn't honest or is veiled...and it's wise to note that everything is truly marketed. Branding is done to gain recognition in products and services. An unofficial definition is a product that becomes the name of a certain item. You will recognize these few: Kleenex, Band Aid, Coke (in some areas of the country this means soda in others~all carbonated beverages are Cokes) and one more, Swab Sticks. Hearing the name of the brand equals the product and whether or not the maufacturer makes the brand called Band Aid, most of us call all "self adhesive bandages Band Aid! Even just seeing certain symbols brings a product to mind~this is intentional. Think about those (all I have to do is say the description and you will know the business or product!) golden arches or that cute little colonel with the white suit and his hat with fried chicken~yes! I am talking about McDonalds and KY Fried Chicken!! The Nike symbol is another example. Often tied to these brands is a perception of wealth created by marketing that one brand is better than another~this is one result of marketing the branding, but when the perception of wealth is created by the marketing of products when wealth is not based on this is unscrupulous. 'Perception of wealth' is the notion that prosperity has been achieved because of the use, ownership or possession of a certain product. We have been convinced that certain things are "good, better, best" where names and types are concerned based on opinions and often the marketing. I have no doubt that products can be of different quality, but my issue is that perception is so strong it can bring dissatisfaction if we cannot have THAT particular brand. Sports shoes, purses, clothing, foods, A-list this and B-list kinds of things!! And this does what; I ask you, but breed in us a malcontent for what God has given us and what in truth will only satisfy the heart of a person~respect, love and honor. These are what money cannot buy!

We must focus our minds as we are making these hard decisions to change our habits into thrifty and economical methods that will bring satisfaction as debts are paid honestly and the ability to share and help others is achieved. Wealth building will not give us respect, love and honor, but it will bring a satisfaction when we are able to help our fellow man because we can and will. How can we help others if we are drowning ourselves in debt? The purpose of budgeting is not to make us rich for some self satisfying endeavor, but in order to help others with our own personal security. I can't give what I do not have myself. This applies to every area of life.

I am not seeking to "have it all" personally, but to have an honest attempt at taking care of my financial obligations and then having enough to share~to make the world a better place which will bring great satisfaction.

Remember that we have to recognize marketing for what it is, and the perception of wealth for what it is not!

Having it all means I am satisfied. . .

Recording Prices in Shopping for Lowest Price Buying

Do you have your notebook handy? I am always suggesting a notebook system of price recording and checking so that you can get the best deals possible. Have a page for each item and a line for each store~compare those prices! Where is it best to get which thing? Some of us shop different places for different items...I like one store for cleaning products like laundry soap, bleach, Mean Green and a few others. Then I like other places to buy bread and some other food items...it's a "dent can" store that gets damaged packaging products that sell for less than 50%! I don't care if the cereal box is dented, would you if the cereal is perfectly fine? It's the inner seal that counts!!

OK...

Take your notebook shopping with you and record prices as you go. Try to do this systematically. I know you will have to purchase some things before actually knowing the best price in which store, but as you go, if you anticipate purchases, record as you wander down each aisle. This week if I don't need self rising flour, but I am getting low, I will check prices while looking at sugar which I do need. Of course since I don't have a known price for sugar, I may go a head and get it until I can begin recording prices for this item...

We generally purchase pretty much the same foods so this isn't hard...just get that notebook~if you have kids, they can help you. Send the older ones (teens) off with a list to price ck...be sure to have them include brands b/c you will want to compare brand to brand.

If you work by a menu, then this is easier. Follow your list of needed items by what you are missing in your pantry. But if you just keep certain items on hand, then you can inventory before shopping~I also recommend cleaning out the fridge. Hopefully there are few items to be rid of, but cleaning and preparing for new items is a good idea before the fridge is full! Lists in the notebook will make finding and recording pricing by store a great way to KNOW who has the best deal on what item. You can do this for any purchase~even gasoline for your car. I have a few stations I watch for the best prices. . .when I see a drop or know it's the lowest, I try to purchase then! Those few dollars I save add up over time!


How are you price comparing to save $? I'd love to hear from you ;-))

TELL ME!!

I know I'm preaching to the choir~if you are following me, you are likely someone who is really thinking a lot about ways to save money and either build wealth or get by in this economy, but I want to KNOW what you are doing!

This thing of thrift is a mindset~a thinking which lends to actions becoming a way of life which is an asset.

The asset of thrift is a huge benefit for life, and the lifestyle is a process. It's been a series of years in learning how to do some of these things and even milestones that we've overcome...Everyone is on their own path~we all learn at our own rate! The idea is to start learning!

So what are you doing to save money on the everyday necessities of life and those wants we all have? Where are you on the journey?

Thanks for sharing!

Staying Well~Swine Flu Info

I wrote my "tips" for staying well during the upcoming colds, viruses, flu and winter seasons : http://sistertipstersthriving.blogspot.com/2009/08/ways-to-avoid-getting-sick.html but got to thinking about the media publicizing the possible and probable outbreak of swine flu or H1N1 virus. Let's go to the source on this; the Center for Disease Control or CDC has a few links concerning this outbreak that I think we all need to read. I'm not a fear monger, but I do believe in being prepared and as wise as possible. As a former practicing nurse, I can appreciate the CDC's authoritative recommendations to keep us all healthy. CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/whatyoushouldknow.htm

Stay WELL AND SAFE! This is a huge budget booster!! ;-))

Home Buying~Some Frugal Ideas. . .

Chances are IF you are looking to buy a home right now, then you know that this is a buyers market. I've had the pleasure of buying in both buyer and sellers markets, but buying at a time when the power chip is in the hands of the purchaser is definitely a plus! We are selling our pre-1880 Victorian home because of job relocation. This is tough, but if you are looking, deals can be had. Following the economic real estate trends says that home pricing is at a low~good news for those who are shopping. Remember that I encourage shopping, not necessarily buying all the time as we need to know our prices, so if you need is not immediate, shop and be sure you are getting the best deal for your money.
(Check out our home for sale http://www.1909homeforsale.blogspot.com pictured left: 3060sq ft/9 car garage~$65K)

Over the years, we have been blessed to have owned four homes. Not but two at the same time as we are not landlords, but due to relocation twice. Shopping for a home comes with challenges I will address so you can think on these if you would like to look around...NOW is a great time to buy~if you can!

1. Can you buy? Size up your finances and get to your lender (shop rates and programs) to get preapproved. This will make your purchasing go better and faster.

2. Begin on your own to look. I must confess, and all my realtor buds may hate me for this, but they'd do this too ;-)) CHECK out any for sale by owners first. Look at trade papers, newspapers, online ads, FSBO.com, historicproperties.com, zillow.com, Craig'slist.com and any others out there...there are even online free classified, and often from your area. LOOK all over! Ride the neighborhoods you want to live in. . .SEARCH! Of course I am thinking a local purchase, but if you are relocating, I will make other suggestions: Make a trip to the area if possible. Spend as long as you can, if over night is all you can, then do that. Get acquainted, talk to hotel, restaurant, shop owners, anyone you can find who will talk to you about the area you are researching. Look up community statistics such as crime and economics on line~many communities have websites and offer loads of info. Search Realtor.com for out of town listings as well as the other sources...just know that likely if on this one, it's listed by a realtor and the price is generally higher by atleast 4-6% or MORE! There are advantages to have a realtor, and I used some of the very best, so I don't dis them. . . it's just that if money, and it should ALWAYS be, is an issue knowing this upfront is helpful~also that interests are generally served to the seller who will pay all commission. I learned this the hard way on our first home purchase. Different laws affect practices too~there are dual agency agreements where one realtor can legally represent both buyer and seller that is required in some states I have live in, and then again, I am not sure that an actual contract is necessary. Biggest thing to remember is that the realtor wants to sell and make commission based on the highest sales price. OK~now said, buyers must KNOW values and understand how to take care of their own money or others will get more than they should. Using a realtor or not, take along your notebook and camera~you won't be sorry because you can study the picutres long after the visit to get a real feel for the home. Sometimes the camera "remembers" what you can't! Make notes and study them later~make comparrisons-feature for feature!

3. What is your style? Home styles vary as much as do conditions and prices. Over these years, I have discovered a few things that are essential in a home for me. I want a bathroom nearby at all times so if our home is two story, it must have one up and down! I want my laundry near the bedrooms and bath upstairs so I am not toting it up and down! With this said, many homes that I happen to like do not have this feature; generally the laundry is in the basement! So is there room to add laundry to the area I want it in? Sit down and write down what you want, what you can't live without and where you would like it all to go or become. Prioritize these features. Houses will all vary, so having a strong sense before you get into looking is a great idea!

4. Research not just the area you want to live in by online resources and riding through, do something you may not have thought of...ride at night~all hours if you can! If you are an out of towner, make SURE you do this! There's a lot of information about a neighborhood to be gained from a nightly ride. . .who's out? WHAT are they doing? What businesses are open? Does the whole town roll up the sidewalks at 9:00PM? You MAY want to know this if you like late night shopping! OR is this a tiny burg of a bigger town that has one redlight and one gas station that is just a bedroom community that rests quietly without stresses? YOU need to know this! AND when you find that home you are interested in, go see the neighbors. Size 'em up for whatever makes you comfortable. I personally don't appreciate loudness or rude behaviors. So when I'm shopping, I am looking for people who are asleep in their beds at a reasonable hour and NOT walking the streets! The night is a great time to check out the potential neighborhood. Quiet is best for me. . .

5. Take your time, if you have time...sometimes purchasing can be more economical if you wait, but remember if your heart is set on a home, it could sell right out from under you. I've had this happen too! But I will say that I have also waited and saved tens of thousands. One good point though, and I've not discussed offers yet, but if you offend a seller with too low an offer, it's not likely they will work with you. . .but then again~this IS a buyers market! So always be mindful that both parties are looking to make a deal~to benefit both! Time is money a good deal of the time. Just remember it comes with risks~risk of losing the home (IF you have to have it~or it's really a great value!) As a seller right now, I could have sold our home (OK~given it away!) about 5 or 6 times to date, and not being rude now, but by the end of this week, I expect to have at least ONE more person to approach me with an offer I AM going to refuse! Sellers must take care of their financial needs too. . .another blog entry ;-)) But it's wise to understand it all ;-))

6. Don't get too caught up in colors and decor as you look. NOW the type or style of home is as important as age and condition, but whether or not it has purple paint in the livingroom is not a total concern to me~it's NICE if the colors are ones I love, but if THE PRICE IS RIGHT none of this sort of thing matters. . . but consider too if anyone in your family is handy or if you have the funds to "fix" what you hate. The home we are in now while the price was very good, needed a HUGE extensive renovation...ceilings were down, all floors had to be ripped, plumbing had to be redone...kitchen..Oh my! But so you know that some issues are non issues where value is concerned. Some I have known, and truly only ONE person refused to consider older homes because they didn't want "issues." OK..so they paid the "sticker price" and then got issues! ;-)) ALL homes have issues~but how smart are you at finding them?

8. IF you know your game on homes, then you can reasonibly forgo the home inspection for it's costs. I have had several~but there were things they didn't catch~even the best of the best will miss stuff that as a home buyer you may, may meaning it may NOT be a deal breaker, want to know! Home inspectors are a good idea if you don't know and aren't too handy. Just to get the pro's ideas is good thinking! I am married to Mr. Fixit, the real mccoy! So we are pretty safe on most things~we do look at age of mechanicals~their continue life expectancy, roof, insulation, heating and air, foundation...Just because it's a pretty home, that pulls my eye does NOT always get the sale. When looking and finding THIS house, there was an earlier home I just knew was THE ONE! Well, it took hubby going to a showing, and hearing the train in the BACKYARD screatching by every 8-12 minutes for ME to know it was a deal breaker! I could never have lived in a home that close to the train THAT busy, but three times now, I have lived close enough to hear it, but never so close I could count every spoke in the wheels! If you can, see the home as many times as possible~under all conditions possible~rain, shine, sleet or hale~~ok, just kidding about ALL of those conditions, but go see it and look, smell, touch and feel...measure...

9. When making an offer, here's a huge tip. Always do some research. Look at as many homes as you can find that are comparative in features and location to come up with what is a reasonable offer, but always less than asking. I mentioned this earlier, but if you make a seller upset, they can refuse to work with you. The other thing is to consider what the home is genuinely worth. I really believe in thrift, but I don't believe in stealing though. Fair is fair, but I will wait until the price is what I can afford or it comes down. This was the case in our current home~the price lowered which brought us BACK to it, but since it had been on the market for some time and the condition, we offered WHAT we believed would be immediately rejected. To our surprise, they accepted. Now this was also unusual in that it was a forclosed property, so there were no sellers involved who had feelings to consider. There are just other challenges to purchasing forclosed or distressed properties~beware! But with caution, they can make very nice homes! Comparing homes of similar features and conditions~an appraiser once told me that location, and major things like h/a, square footage, and other spaces like garages make property values~not decor or clean and neat issues...now number of bedrooms/baths will matter. . .lot size...but if you have 1985 lights or the latest most expensive crystal chandeliers~MATTERS NOT! Remember this if you plan to sell too~another post-another post!! ;-))

10. Consider the needs of yourself and your family. How many kids, pets? HOW MUCH STUFF? Are you downsizing or upsizing? Large yard? NO yard? GARAGE? Carport? How many baths? Do you want to be the 11 person family with one bath and three bedrooms??? HOW do you live~in the den, greatroom or livingroom or kitchen/den combo or WHAT? Features will matter when it comes to your family. . .My husband had grown quite accustomed to the NINE CAR~yeah, you read that right, 1500 sqare feet garage we moved from. When shopping, there were a couple of homes that were right for me without much less more than a one car bay situation. WE HAD to consider~where was the air compressor and wood shop and, and, and. . .GOING! We really needed and became blessed with a 3 car garage! Oh, it's smaller for sure, but think of HOW bad it would have been and the adjustment to no garage! Now you may want to make such changes...changing states and all that goes with THAT were enough for this family! Pets need space as do kids! But I hate yard work, not because I dislike gorgeous yards, but because of the work they take to maintain them. We are busy~I guess doing other things and since the yard is not my priority, I prefer very very small and what I do have, often I will make as much of a rock garden as possible! Laugh if you want to! But somebody had to cut all that grass~and with little time for THAT, it is't pretty~so we make a choice about yard size...We also came from tornado country without a basement, and having lived through the F5 of my life, I will if possible always have a basement. I've got one now! Praise God!

I hope I've given you some things to consider when looking to purchase a new home. This is an incredible time, especially if you are credit worthy and a first time home buyer. With the 8K stimulus, WOW~that makes DEALS EVEN BETTER!

Taking care of my money, so it stays!
SisterTipster<3

Thriving and HOPE

Hope is one of those words that means so many different things to people. I just know for me, without HOPE no matter my circumstance, whether it is financial, relational or situational, I have to have HOPE~

When it's bad~hope gives me strength and a vision.

When it's great~hope says "it can get better!"

When it's ok~hope offers me something different from WHAT AND WHERE OR HOW at this time...

Hope can bring a song, a spring to my step and a joy in my heart. . .

No matter what the situation, circumstance or place~HOPE!

I find great comfort in the Scripture, "hope thou in God" or in a modern (my own version) " HOPE IN GOD"~He is our hope...our future security and peace! This is helpful for whatever I am facing, whether it is physical, mental, emotional, financial, relational, geographical, situational~ALL the "ionals...in life"...

HE IS HOPE~

Thriving is HOPE and HOPEFULLY filled! We are not just merely existing in our place in this world, but buzzing along with the peace of God~from Him in HOPE!

Blessings~
SisterTipster<3

The Fried Egg Told It All~

In http://sistertipstersthriving.blogspot.com/2009/08/ways-to-leave-your-debts-behind.html#links I suggested for easy cleaning which saves TIME and money, not to mention ELBOW grease, that either you rinse dishes as they are dirtied OR you soak them or wash them right up. Now I have to tell you that today was a perfect example of just this kind of thing I am talking about. I got up this morning and hubby had fried himself some eggs~now I have no problem with this. But I share this so you can see the REAL LIFE example of what can happen if someone does NOT take care of the plates, utensils and fry pan. I found these little goodies about four hours later, and you can imagine what it was like, right? So I thought that in order to save on my time, effort and money, I'd soak them all in the hottest water I have out of the tap for about an hour. THIS SHOULD DO THE TRICK I was thinking. NOT! I got over to my sink and had to really really REALLY hunker down on that fried egg all stuck to the skillet. It was obviously not a nonstick, but a stainless steel fry pan (Revere Ware) which are great pots and pans. This fried egg mess took not only an hour of soaking, but also took about 30 minutes of my scrubbing with a green Scotch Bright pad for non stick and no scratching. I was just about ready to get out my fine steel wool which I do hold out for messes that won't release, when it all came off. But whew! THAT fried egg almost had me~So remember to rinse, soak or wash right away to save your last nerve, your efforts, and your money. That pan took way too much effort and hot water/soap not to mention the use of my scrubby.

LESSON LEARNED~now can I convince. . .
Taking Care of my money so it won't leave me!
SisterTipster <3

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How Fresh is Fresh?

I asked my mother this question this morning when she told me, "be sure you don't let them (the squash) get too old" as I was wondering about freezing them for this winter's use. I'm no pro, and since I admit to learning how this past generation and before handled things for health and prosperity, I NEEDED to KNOW!

I have been incredibly blessed by a bumper crop of wonderful yellow crook neck or summer squash. Now you might not be a fan of it, but I have NEVER eaten one cooked or RAW that I didn't like! So count me in the pot or pan or dish if SQUASH is on the menu. I may be alone, but the point isn't so much about growing my own squash which is a FIRST for our family, this is our FIRST successful garden EVER! Oh folks, this family has tried gardening in the past to be overtaken with all manner of weeds and wildlife "help" that robbed us of our tasty bounty.

What did we do different this year? Well, it all went into the preparation of the soil I think. It could be climate too, but the preparation was more extensive than ever in the past. Our second most successful gardening attempt was two years ago when we used some raised beds that we added potting soil after weeding well and putting down weed cloth and mulched~lots of work huh? Yeah, and we got some, but not tons of produce for the area. Certainly not enough I was in need of a deep freeze which I have up and operational for this year's produce.

So this year, it's an in-ground garden. It was tilled 3 times and power raked each time, removing all the grass and weeds. It's in a sunny location, and there are wire lines at varying heights to prevent the animals from "visiting." There was no potting soil added, but just the tilling done over several weeks. We did not test the soil, but think it will be a good idea for next year as some of our plants did not do well in the areas they were planted, while others, like my SQUASH are doing well. We are also getting quite a few acorn squash. I love these too, and can freeze for "faux pumpkin pie" this winter! Yum!

So back to the question, how fresh is fresh in preserving our veggies for the freezer. I am working to keep putting up pint bags as it comes in. Not letting it set more than a few days without either eating it or preparing to freeze.

Methods for freezing are quite simple. It requires "blanching" the product for 3 minutes and quickly cooling to down to stop the cooking process. This site: http://www.pickyourown.org/freezing_summer_squash.htm has pics and the way I'm doing it, and it's just like Mama said ;-)) I have read some no blanch methods, and I am guessing that if you eat the stuff pretty quick (within a month or so) it would be OK. . .but I truly don't know, so I'm going with and recommending the tried and true~who wants to get sick~not me or you!

This has to be one of those great budget preserving secrets: A WONDERFUL garden or a few homegrown pots with your OWN veggies.

We did start most of our own plants this year as well. THIS SAVED US A TON~and what I didn't start, a fellow FreeCycle buddy gave me. If you don't know, FreeCycle is a wonderful group on Yahoo groups that has chapters all over the nation so you can join your local group. Folks give away what they no longer want or need making offers and others to keep stuff out of landfills will take it and use it or offer it back to the group. There are rules for each group, and if you go to Yahoo groups and then you can search for your local, you will find all about it. But how cool is FREE for some homegrown plants for our garden? Yes, the seeds did cost us when we had to purchase them, but how wonderful to see those plants grow and now bring in the goodies! I think this is more healthy too! I KNOW what we used to grow our veggies~talk about FRESH!

This is ONE more way to take care of my money so it won't LEAVE ME~
Do you have a garden this year? Are you preserving for the future? What's working?
blessings and hmmm...it's getting to be lunch~squash time! (wash, split in to two halves, sprinkle with black pepper placed on microwavable plate and cook 5 min~YUMMY!)
SisterTipster<3

Contest~Leave a FRUGAL Secret. . .

Share YOUR favorite Frugal SECRET. . . HERE with SisterTipster!
Do a shout-out to everyone and share your secret for saving some CA$H!

WIN $25 Gift Card

Contest Ends: August 1st~hey, enter as many times as you can think of ways to save money in this economy~Random drawing and be sure to leave your email or contact info ;-))

Let's have some fun~
Here's mine: Save money each week by bringing your own drinks to work or as you travel. This saves on those drive through expenses when the kids are thirsty or you need a drink at work! OR ask for complementary water when you drive through. They're FREE!

WIN~~~~~ $25 GIFT CARD~~~

blessings
SisterTipster <3>***This week, on TUESDAY, 7/14/09, the theme is THREE THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT ME!. You can express this with photos, writing or a combination. Here is a sample I did: http://www.mcklinkyblog.com/2009/07/mcklinky-photo-blog-for-july-14-2009-3.html ... Do not change any part of this code except for text that falls between (and includes) the opening and closing asterisks. Between the asterisks is where you place your content. DO NOT CREATE NEW MCKLINKY LIST. WE ALL USE THE SAME LIST. DO NOT CHANGE THE LIST ID BELOW. Be sure to enter your own link to your own blog post as soon as the blog hop starts! Link directly to your blog post, not just your blog. blessing and HAVE FUN, SisterTipster***

It's ALL About Living and Loving on LESS!

I promised to share my story of why I am SisterTipster and how I see the world where homeschooling and finances are concerned.

First I am a daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, fellow homeschooler and thrifty-wise being who long before blogging became popular thought up the idea that as hard and as joyful as life can be sometimes, that somebody ought to offer tips on what is helpful, useful and good to make the journey a little easier. Well, when I was selected to join up with the TOS Crew for 08-09 Maiden Voyage, I needed a name~and SisterTipster was born. She was born out of a desire to help others along the way and continues in this mission offering what I find all around me to help with all areas of life. Sometimes I will discuss current trends from a distinctly Christian and Biblical worldview or offer up free or really good deals that I have found to be of use in our lives whether it's homeschooling or just being a family.

Living and loving on less is really my personal mission and sharing these secrets is my global mission. I want to share with you wonderful resources that you can use to make your life better. I have considered monetizing my blogs, but at this time, have decided that I prefer the ministry aspect of sharing with friends~blogger to blogger, friend to friend, homeschooler to homeschooler. You will see reviews where I've received products from vendors for my thoughts and insights and then you will see reviews on things that I have come across in my everyday life too that I belive could be helpful.

I invite you to join me, you can sign up to follow me on this journey of Thriving With No Green$! In these economic times I hope it's fresh and appealing to know that SisterTipster cares about saving money~not just MINE~but yours too and will look to help in any way I can.

You will see old posts that offer some wonderful insights, go ck out the archives. They are relevant and timely too~I just wanted to find a new site to offer a different format for my blog~

Thanks for stopping by and VERY SOON I will announce a new contest~
Congratulations Tina for winning the $25 Gift Card of YOUR CHOICE !!!
blessings
SisterTipster<3