Tips

Listeners Emails

How was the Bob Seger Concert? Does he sound the same??

Craig

Hi Craig!

Thanks for askin!! It was amazing! Went with 3 GF's had a blast. He sounds just like he usually does...all hot & stuff : )

Bob hasn't found me yet...he will though!

Tracey

Hi Tracey its me Cathy

I was wondering if you ever get any Iams dog food coupons that you do not use. I am learning to not be dedicated to brands but my 2 Syberian Huskies can only eat Iams or they get Diarrhea (Not fun). So do you know a way I can get more of these coupons besides begging from friends?

Cathy,

Email the company & tell them how much you feed your dogs & that you will ONLY feed your dogs their dog food! Tell them how much you are a fan! Ask for coupons. They should send you some & then you will be put on their mailing list.

I will save IAMS dog food coupons for you & send them to you.

Tracey

Hello~

My friend and I were interested in attending a coupon class. Can you give me some more information on your class? What do we need to do to sign up?

Thanks,

Holly

Hi Holly!

Thanks for the email & I am so excited that you want to learn more about coupons!

I would love to set up a date for a coupon class.

Our workshops teach you everything you need to know to get you on your way to saving hundreds of dollars off your grocery shopping budget.

Some of the things covered are:

Where to obtain coupons

How many coupons are necessary for your family

How to clip coupons

Which coupons to clip

How to handle/organize/store your coupons

How to get the most benefit out of your coupons

Where to get the best deals

And much, much more!

The hostess receives free groceries. You will leave with the full knowledge of knowing how to drastically reduce your grocery budget.

We ask for a minimum of 5 attendees.

Please let me know if you have any other questions.

Thank you.

Also don't forget to like my Saving Centsibly page on facebook!

Tracey

Are there certain days/times that you do your coupon classes?

What kinds of things do you talk about?

We've all seen the Extreme Coupon show and none of us really want to go THAT far

Thanks Erin

Hi Erin

I schedule my classes for Wednesdays thru Saturdays. The latest class starts at 6:30pm. The classes usually last around 2ish hours.

Some of the things covered are:

Where to obtain coupons

How many coupons are necessary for your family

How to clip coupons

Which coupons to clip

How to handle/organize/store your coupons

How to get the most benefit out of your coupons

Where to get the best deals

And much, much more!

I too seen the Extreme Coupon show & even talked about it on WHMI. It is sooooo over the top! Like I explained to the radio listeners, THAT is NOT real life, unless you have a camera crew following you around everywhere, the grocery store has NO limits or rules & you have an endless supply of coupons...

Dear Tracey

If my store doubles coupons up to $1.00 and I use a $1.25 off coupon, will the store take an additional $0.25 off, for a total of $2.50?

P.Nastle

Hi there P.Nastle

No, When the store states that it will double coupons up to $1.00 in value, any coupon $1.01 or higher won’t receive special treatment.

Thanks & if you have any other questions feel free to email me!

Tracey

Tips & Bob Info!

Wash your Down Comforter in the washing machine in warm water on the gentle cycle.

Then, fluff/dry it in the drier with 3 new tennis balls.

The balls bounce around & keep the comforter from getting all "bunched up."

What’s Bob Seger’s middle name? Clark

A U.S. dollar bill is exactly 6in wide. This comes in handy if you need to measure something accurately, & you don't have a tape measure. 2 widths equal a foot exactly. A dollar bill folded in 1/2 becomes exactly 3in wide!

When is Bob’s birthday? May 6, 1945

When traveling, take an empty water bottle through airport security.

Once through, fill from any airport water fountain.

What year was Bob inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? 2004

There are many linen closets out there that become totally disorganized. Here is a tip that we love & have used for years. Fold your fitted & flat sheets, add only 1 pillowcases to the pile. Insert the pile of bedding into the last pillow case. Whoever is making the bed just opens the linen closet & grabs a pillow case filled w/ bedding! Everything is there!

What movie does Tom Cruise slide in his under wear in? Risky Business

To What song? 'Old Time Rock And Roll'.

What year? 1983

How to unshrink a wool sweater

Mix together 1 gallon lukewarm water & 2 tablespoons baby shampoo. Soak the sweater for about 10 minutes. Don’t rinse! Simply blot out all of the excess water with a dry towel, & very gently lay it flat on a fresh towel. Reshape slowly, & carefully stretch it back to its original size. Dry out of direct sunlight or heat.

This should work provided the fibers have not become permanently damaged.

How tall is Bob? 6'4"

Put a paper towel or a napkin in your zip-type bags of vegetables. They absorb the condensation from the vegetables & keep the environment dry, which preserves the vegetables’ refrigerator life. Change the paper when it gets too damp.

"Shakedown," released in 1987, is Seger's only #1 hit single.

For what movie? Beverly Hills Cop II

When chopping herbs like basil, cilantro or parsley, use a pizza cutter instead of a knife. It cuts a large amount of herbs quickly.

The 1994 album "Greatest Hits" by Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band has been named the best catalog album of the decade by Billboard

Wonder what to do with the hardened edges of brownies or the last few that hardened before they could be consumed? Send them through the food processor & then place the crumbs in a plastic bag in the freezer. Sprinkle on ice cream or cakes for extra chocolate flavoring. This works great with stale or crispy (not burned) cookies, too.

What song did Bob write about me? "Someday Tracey you'll accomp'ny me!"

If your pot is about to boil over (even after you have turned down the burner), throw a couple of metal spoons into the pot. The metal will absorb some of the heat & prevent your meal from spilling all over the stove.

As Heard On

Turkey Tips!

Photos

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Homemade Cleaning Solutions Are Cheap & Green

As politically incorrect as it may sound, I admit to making my own household cleaners to save money, not to avoid toxins or to help clean up the planet. That these concoctions just happen to be “green” alternatives is a terrific bonus.

All of these solutions should be mixed thoroughly in an appropriate container (spray bottle or other container with a tight-fitting lid), labeled clearly & kept out of reach of children. See below for how you can get my complete collection of Cheapskate Solutions, which includes hundreds of recipes for household cleaning, health & beauty, garden & craft solutions.

BLACK LACQUER CLEANER: Strong tea, allowed to cool to room temperature. Dip cloth into the tea & rub the lacquered surface well. Dry well & buff with a soft, clean cloth.

CLEANER FOR PAINTED CABINETS: 1/4 cup baking soda, 1 cup household ammonia, 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1 gallon warm water. Wash cabinets this solution & a sponge. Rinse off with a clean sponge & water. Wipe cabinets completely dry. Note: For stubborn areas, press a hot, damp cloth against grease deposits until they soften. Then, proceed as directed above.

ALL-PURPOSE SPRAY CLEANER: 2 cups rubbing alcohol, 1 tablespoon liquid dishwashing detergent, 1 tablespoon non-sudsing household ammonia, 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Mix in a gallon jug. Fill jug with warm water & shake. Put solution in a spray bottle. Great for cleaning windows, chrome & bath fixtures.

HEAVY-DUTY WINDOW CLEANER: 1/2 cup ammonia, 2 cups rubbing alcohol, 1 teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent, water. Mix ammonia, alcohol & detergent in gallon jug. Fill to top with water. Shake well before each use. This solution is great for cleaning really dirty windows, taking tape marks off windows & for removing soap film from shower doors.

ANTIBACTERIAL SPRAY: 1 quart cool water, 1 teaspoon liquid chlorine bleach. Mix ingredients in a spray bottle. Use this solution to clean & disinfect surfaces in the kitchen & bathroom. Make up in small batches to use immediately. As bleach evaporates, it loses its germ-killing properties.

SKUNK SCENT REMOVER SHAMPOO: 32oz hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid. Mix ingredients together in large bottle with cap. Use as shampoo on pets, children & spouses. Rinse well.

VINYL SIDING CLEANER: 2/3 cup Spic & Span, 1/2 cup powdered Tide laundry detergent, 1 quart liquid chlorine bleach, 3 quarts hot water. Mix ingredients in 2 gallon bucket & allow to stand for 4 to 5 hours. Pour into ordinary garden sprayer & apply to vinyl siding. Leave solution on siding for five minutes & rinse with hose.

Turkey Tips!

GO FOR CHEAP - John Smith, professional butcher & author of Confessions of a Butcher: Eat Steak on a Hamburger Budget, advises, “Always go with the cheapest turkey & you’ll never go wrong. One turkey processor will slap many different labels on his crop of birds. The turkeys are all the same, only the labels are different.”

NO ENHANCEMENTS - Roger Kutz, a butcher in Minnesota, suggests we skip the turkeys that come “enhanced.” They are just loaded up with salty water & flavorings. Never forget that a turkey with an 8 percent solution added is only 92 percent turkey.

BUY FROZEN - Both of our butchers agree that these days a frozen bird is best. By law, turkeys can be labeled “fresh” even though the moisture in the bird is frozen. If you press very firmly on the bird the meat is not frozen. The turkey processors have it down to a science. They bring the temperature of the birds down to the very legal limit before sending them off to the store two weeks before Thanksgiving. Frozen turkeys, on the other hand, are quick-frozen immediately after butchering. So the freshest turkey is really a frozen turkey. The freezing process has no noticeable effect on the quality or the taste of the bird.

BIGGER IS BETTER - To get the best meat to bone ratio, opt for the biggest bird with the roundest chest. A bird of less than 16 pounds is going to have much less meat to bone, & one that is 12 pounds or less will be mostly bones. The designations of hen & tom, young or mature apply only to size, not to age or gender.

SAFE PREP - You must have an effective antibacterial solution in your kitchen when preparing poultry. But don’t spend $6.00 for a 12oz bottle of cleaner. Make it yourself: One quart of 70 F (cool) water plus one teaspoon of liquid bleach. Any warmer & the bleach evaporates; more bleach will harm some surfaces & fabrics. Regularly sanitize all surfaces with this bleach water, particularly those that may have come in contact with raw poultry including the inside of the refrigerator.

DO NOT STUFF IT! - Liz Tarditi, professional personal chef warns us that as the bird cooks, raw juices drip into the soft, absorbent stuffing. Turkey must reach an internal temperature of 165 F, & so must the contaminated stuffing. It’s nearly impossible to cook a stuffed turkey to perfection & also guarantee uncontaminated stuffing. Prepare your stuffing as you always have, but bake it in a separate foil-covered pan while the turkey is roasting. Remember, an unstuffed bird will roast faster & more evenly, too.

FILL THE FREEZER - Frozen turkeys will be at rock bottom prices during the next few weeks & through Christmas. This is a good time to fill your freezer. As long as the plastic packaging is intact, a frozen turkey is safe & delicious for at least a year, if not longer. Stretch your food dollars by roasting cheap turkeys throughout the year.

Thank you Mary Hunt!

What is a Coupon?

It is not just a piece of paper!
You have to think of them as

"Cash"!!
YOUR cash!!

FACT

Everyone knows

how to use coupons
But most of us don't use them...

Want to learn how?

Want to see them in a different way?

You will learn

How to stockpile

Where to get the coupons

Different types of coupons

How to Organize your coupons
Stores policies/promotions

Tips to help you get the most for your $$$$$
How to get many, many

name brand items for free!!!

How to plan your shopping trip

to save time & $$$$$

Many more tips...

Schedule your class or shopping trip today!
Start saving your $$$$$ right away!!

It's your money...keep it!

Why give your $$$$$ away?

It becomes so much fun when you get to the cashier & can't wait to see the total before coupons…

then the total AFTER coupons!!!

Download electronic coupons on to your savings card

Kroger is our local store that offers e-coupons

These come off as you check out. These will not double & you can only use them once.

You can not use a paper coupon with these.

mPerks

Meijers now has a program that uses your text-enabled cell phone number to pull up e-coupons at the checkout. You simply look for the mPerks button at checkout (on the bottom of U-scan or credit card machine screens) & select the button anytime after your 1st item has been scanned. The computer will then prompt you for your 10 digit cell phone number & the savings will deduct when you meet the coupon criteria. Meijers mPerks

They can successfully be combined with manufacturer coupons.

Cooking Ground Beef

Use a Thermometer!

120°F & below for rare

130°F for medium-rare

140°F for medium

150°F for medium-well

156°F to kill any potential contaminants

160°F & above for well done

Because E. Coli is killed at 155 degrees Fahrenheit,

the USDA sets the minimum safe temperature for ground beef at 160 degrees Fahrenheit

Saving Centsibly

IMPORTANT Stuff to have in a Power Outage

Battery backup sump pump system!!!!!!!

A car cell-phone charger & a telephone that does NOT depend on electricity

Baby wipes, cause this becomes your bath!

Board games...NOT the game "Sorry"...cause fights!

Filled jugs w/water for flushing & hand washing

Access to a flashlight, radio & fresh batteries.

(so they can hold it to their hands to try & see the bones...like xrays)

Bring in your Solar Lights from outside...inside.

(Clean any bugs out first though...important!)

Candles & matches

Bottled drinking water

Easy canned food (including a manual can opener)

Keep the refrigerator & freezer doors closed.

Food in a refrigerator will last 12 to 24 hours if the doors are kept closed.

A full freezer can last 24 to 48 hours.

Humor &/or ear plugs

Baking soda can do a lot more

than just sit in the back of the fridge

Try these easy tips & put baking soda to work

in every room of your house!

To put out a grease fire, scatter baking soda over it by the handful to extinguish flames

Freshen rugs by sprinkling baking soda

on carpet, wait at least 15 minutes

(preferably let sit overnight), then vacuum up

For instant relief from bug bites, sunburn

& poison ivy, mix baking soda w/a little water

& apply it directly to the sore

Discourage weeds by sprinkling baking soda into the cracks on your driveway & walkways

Sprinkle baking soda in the kitty box, then add litter on top to keep smells to a minimum

Use a pinch in a gallon of

freshly-brewed iced tea, to take out the

bitterness & prevent cloudiness

To brighten a dull floor finish, dissolve ½ cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water.

Mop & rinse for a shiny floor

Clean the dishwasher & coffeemaker by running an empty cycle w/baking soda

Use baking soda to brush your pets’ teeth

Soak toothbrushes in a mixture of

¼ cup baking soda & ¼ cup water;

let brushes stand overnight for a thorough cleaning

Make a fluffier omelet by adding ½ teaspoon baking soda for every 3 eggs

Have heartburn?

Create an antacid by mixing

½ teaspoon of baking soda w/½ cup of water

allyou.com

"If you squint, you can see it.

"It" is a teeny little "P" that tells the world you’ve paid $10.00 for a year’s worth of admission to Michigan’s state parks.

That inconspicuous letter is the enforcement linchpin of the state’s revamped method of paying for its park system...the mark of honor that distinguishes paying customers from cheating freeloaders!

Last Oct. 1, the state began selling "recreation passports," a license-plate-based system that took the place of annual & day park passes. For an extra 10 bucks on top of their usual vehicle-license fee ($5.00 for motorcycles), motorists get a year’s access to all 98 state parks & recreation areas plus boat launches.

The black "P" is printed on the vehicle registration sticker that goes on license plates. The letter is in front of the serial number at the top of the little sticker. License stickers issued last year are orange; this year's are green.

For questions & answers, go to the Michigan DNRE site.

Seeing the P is the only way for park rangers to tell if you’ve bought the passport.

Non-residents still must buy a non-resident passport, which costs $29.00 for an annual permit or $8.00 for a daily pass.

Motorists who have the "P" on their plates don't have to stop at a state park's entry booth. Signs direct everyone else to stop & buy a windshield sticker at the booth.

The park-purchased sticker also costs $10.00 this year, but that will rise to $15.00 next year & $20.00 in 2013. That's because the state wants to encourage Michigan drivers to get their "passports" when they renew their vehicle registration.

The plan is to have rangers leave an envelope on the windshield of violators, with initially a warning & instructions on how to buy a park pass, either at the park office or by mailing in payment. Ultimately, the new law gives the DNR authority to fine violators up to $100.00!!

Drivers renewing their vehicle registrations are given the option of checking either "yes" or "no" to the $10.00 recreation passport.

Michigan's new annual recreation passports, like vehicle registrations, are based on your birthday — not on the calendar year."

If you would like to read more...

Thank you John S. Hausman!

Traveling Tips

Wondering whether to fly or drive on your next trip?

Compare the cost & time of flying or driving

to help you figure out the most cost & time effective way to travel

Thank you Mary Hunt & Sharon Silke Carty

As someone who routinely takes long car rides from Michigan to ANY part of Florida, I often find myself somewhere on 75 in the middle of Kentucky wishing we'd flown.

Thankfully, there is now a tool for people who often wonder whether or not it makes sense to fly or drive. BeFrugal.com's Fly Or Drive Calculator compares the time & cost of flying vs driving. It asks you where you're going, when you're going, what you would drive if you were driving, & how much you'd pay for a hotel if you have to stay overnight. It also adds in the cost of parking at the airport if you're flying, plus car rental costs.

These days, it's hard to balance the cost of gas versus the hassle of flying. BeFrugal's calculator helps!

More tips...

First flight. Try to book the first flight out in the morning because those planes often arrive at the airport the evening before. You won’t have to rely on an incoming flight, which could be delayed or canceled, resulting in your own flight being delayed or canceled.

Save the iPod. When you’re on a beach or near a pool, put your iPod or MP3 player in a clear plastic bag & tape it closed. You’ll still be able to turn it on & off, adjust the volume & switch to another song, but it will be protected from sand & water—even if you drop it in the pool.

Kids in museums. Want to visit museums w/your children but avoid the boredom & tears? Head to the gift shop first & buy postcards of the museum’s most famous works. Create a treasure hunt in the museum for these masterpieces. Send the postcards or add to your trip album.

Overnight flights. If you know you’ll be on that red-eye flight, pack a few Dove Body Refreshers & Oral B Brush-Ups in your carry-on bag. Before the plane lands, you can “wash” your face & “brush” your teeth while sitting in your seat. You will be refreshed & ready for the day.

36 uses for Vinegar!!!

1. Stop static cling

Add ½ cup of white distilled vinegar to your wash cycle

The acid reduces static & keeps dryer lint from sticking to your clothes.

2. Make old socks look new

Get the stains out of old socks & sweaty gym clothes . Add vinegar to a large pot of water, bring to a boil & drop in the stained clothes. Let them soak overnight & in the morning stained clothes are fresh & brigh

3. Restore handbags & shoes.

Wipe white distilled vinegar on scuffed leather bags & shoes

It will restore their shine & help hide the marks

4. Banish weeds

Pour white distilled vinegar on the weeds growing in the cracks of your walkway & driveway

Saturate the plant so the vinegar reaches the roots

5. Liven droopy flowers

Don’t throw out cut flowers once they start to wilt

Instead, add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar & 1 teaspoon of sugar to a quart of water. Pour the solution into your vase, & the flowers will perk up

6. Put an end to itching

Dab a cotton ball soaked in white vinegar on mosquito bites & insect stings.

It will stop them from itching & help disinfect the area so they heal faster

7. Whiten your teeth

Brush your teeth once a week w/white distilled vinegar. Dip your toothbrush into the vinegar & brush thoroughly. It will help prevent bad breath, too

8. Make nail polish last longer

Before you apply your favorite polish, wipe your nails w/a cotton ball soaked in white distilled vinegar. The clean surface will help your manicure last

9. Keep car windows frost-free

Prevent windows from frosting over in a storm by coating them w/a solution of 3 parts white distilled vinegar to 1 part water. The acidity hinders ice, so you won’t have to wake up early to scrape off your car

10. Let your dog shine

Spray your dog with 1 cup white distilled vinegar mixed w/1 quart water. The solution is a cheap alternative to expensive pet-care products, plus the vinegar will help repel pests like fleas & ticks

11. Battle litter-box odor.

Cat litter can leave behind an unwelcome smell. Eliminate it by pouring a half-inch of white distilled vinegar into the empty litter box. Let stand for 20 minutes, then rinse w/cold water

12. Kill bacteria in meat

Marinating in vinegar knocks out bacteria & tenderizes the meat. Create a marinade by adding ¼ cup balsamic vinegar for every 2 pounds of meat to your own blend of herbs & spices. Let the meat sit anywhere from 20 minutes to 24 hours, depending on how strong you want the flavor, then cook it in the morning w/o rinsing

13. Prevent cracked eggs

Prevent eggs from cracking as they hard-boil by adding 2 tablespoons of white vinegar to the water. The eggs will stay intact, & the shells will peel off more easily when you’re ready to eat them

14. Steam away a microwave mess

Fill a small bowl w/equal parts hot water & vinegar & place it in the microwave on high for 5 minutes. As the steam fills the microwave, it loosens the mess, making clean up a breeze

15. Repair DVDs

If you have a worn DVD that skips or freezes,wipe it down w/white distilled vinegar applied to a soft cloth. Make sure the DVD is completely dry before

reinserting it into the player

16. Get those last drops

If you can’t get that final bit of mayonnaise or salad dressing out of the jar, dribble in a few drops of vinegar. Put the cap on tightly & shake.

The remaining condiments will slide out

17. Rinse fruits and vegetables

Add 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar to one pint water. Use the mixture to wash fresh fruits & vegetables,then rinse thoroughly. The solution kills more pesticide residue than does pure water

18. Brighter Easter eggs

Before your kids dye Easter eggs, mix 1 teaspoon of vinegar w/½ cup of hot water, then add food coloring. The vinegar keeps the dye bright &

prevents the color from streaking

19. Loosen a rusted screw

Pour vinegar onto the screw, & it will easily unstick

20. Remove gum

To remove gum from fabric or hair, heat a small bowl of vinegar in the microwave. Pour the warm vinegar over the gum, saturating the area.

The gum will dissolve

21. Keep cheese from molding

Wrap cheese in a vinegar-soaked cloth, then place in an airtight container & refrigerate

22. Renew a loofah

Soak your loofah in equal parts vinegar & water for 24 hours to dissolve soap residue, then rinse in cold water

23. Remove wax

If you get melted candle wax on your wood furniture or floors gently wipe it away w/a cloth soaked in a solution of equal parts white vinegar & water

24. Take a relaxing bath

Add ½ cup of vinegar to warm bath water for a cheap spa session at home.

The vinegar removes dead skin, leaving you feeling soft & smooth

25. Brighten your hair

Remove hair product buildup by rinsing a tablespoon of vinegar through your hair once a month

26. Freshen fabrics

Fill a spray bottle w/white vinegar & spritz your home to neutralize odors in fabrics, carpets, shoes or any sprayable surface

27. Erase crayon

If your kids get crayon marks on the walls or floor,dip a toothbrush in white vinegar & gently scrub. The vinegar breaks down the wax, making for an inexpensive, nontoxic way to clean up after children

28. Sticky stickers

Don’t scratch at the residue left by stickers or price tags. Instead, apply vinegar to the gunk, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe the glue away

29. Clean the dishwasher & coffee pot

Reduce soap buildup & food residue by pouring a cup of vinegar into your empty dishwasher or coffee pot once a month & letting it run a full cycle

30. Sanitize pet accidents

You can remove the stain―& smell―of your pet’s accident by mixing ¼ cup vinegar w/a quart of water & blotting the mixture onto the mess w/a washcloth. Continue dabbing until the spot is gone

31. Prep for summer grilling

To remove charcoal buildup from your grill, spray white distilled vinegar on balled up aluminum foil & scrub the grate thoroughly

32. Restore showerhead pressure

If your showerhead gets clogged with mineral deposits, soak it for 15 minutes in a mixture of ½ cup vinegar & 1 quart water

33. Clean your scissors

When your scissor blades get sticky, wipe them down w/a cloth dipped in full-strength white vinegar. Unlike soap & water, vinegar won’t ruin the blades or rust the metal

34. Unclog drains

For a natural, nontoxic way to clean clogged pipes, pour 1 cup of baking soda, followed by 1 cup of white vinegar, down the drain. Let the products bubble & foam

35. Eliminate dandruff

If your scalp is feeling dry or flaky, vinegar can be a simple at-home remedy. Once a week, pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar over your scalp, & let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly w/cool water

36. Soften your feet

Summer sandals leaving you w/cracked heals & calluses? Soak your feet for 20 minutes a day in 1 part vinegar to 2 parts warm water. The vinegar removes dead skin, leaving your feet soft & smooth

Getting your dog professionally groomed

Pros

-Saves you from cleaning up a mess

(and smelling like wet dog)

-Saves you time; you can go out & run errands while your dog is at the groomers

-Quality, professional products used (shampoo, nail trimmers, brushes)

-Social time for your dog

Cons

-Can be pricey

(especially if you have more than 1 dog)

-Groomer may not cut your dog’s hair to exactly what you had in mind

-Quality of groomer in question

until you bring your dog there,

or through word of mouth

Average Cost per dog for basic groom: $35

Grooming your dog at home

Pros

-Can groom your dog to your

exact specifications

-Teach your child(ren) dog ownership responsibilities by having them

bathe & brush your dog(s)

Cons

-The upfront cost of quality grooming

tools can be expensive

-Can be time consuming;

depends on the coat of the dog

-Lack of experience or knowledge

may lead to injuries for the dog

Average cost of quality, professional grooming tools (nail clippers, scissors, trimmers, brush, shampoo): $100

*This is not including the grooming table, which allows you to use both hands while grooming your dog*

Hands on Shopping Trip!!

You will learn

How to use your coupons

When to use your coupons

Where to use your coupons

PLUS KEEP THE FREE GROCERIES

email for more information

HURRY

SCHEDULE IS FILLING UP FAST

Privacy Management

Money Saving Myth's

True or False:

You can save big money on your car insurance by increasing your deductible.

True!

Since the insurance company will be taking less risk that you'll file a claim for a little fender-bender, they'll reduce your premium considerably.

Check your deductible today. If you have a low deductible (under $250), consider increasing it to $500 or even $1,000. Call your agent & ask for a premium quote for higher deductibles. This could be the easiest money you'll ever save.

True or False:

Running air conditioner in your car wastes gas

False!

Keeping your car’s windows open for ventilation instead of using the AC can cost you more. Opening windows actually increases the drag which boosts gas consumption. So, next time when you use AC to make yourself comfortable, do not feel guilty!

True or False:

Using the higher-octane gas makes your car run better & gives you better mileage.

False!

Sure, the oil companies & the gas stations absolutely love to sell you premium fuel because it costs a lot more. The reality, however, is that most cars don't get much benefit from the higher octane.

Check your owner's manual for the recommended fuel & use only that type.

Most cars do not require premium fuel, so if your car doesn't, switch back to either a regular or mid-level fuel grade.

Your car won't know the difference, but your wallet sure will.

True or False:

To find the best prices on groceries, you need to look up and down on the grocer's shelves.

True!

Grocery stores are very smart about making sure that the products with the highest prices are also the easiest to see & find. That's why they put them at eye-level.

To save money at the supermarket, look up & down at the top & bottom shelves to find comparable products at lower costs.

True or False:

You can cut your heating bill by 5%-15% by lowering the thermostat 10-15 degrees for 8 hours.

True!

According the U.S. Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 10-15 degrees for only 8 hours a day can save you big money – between 5% and 15% of your current heating bill.

The best time to do this is probably when you're asleep or away from your home. A programmable thermostat makes this a snap. Buy one today & start saving big money.

True or False:

Hand washing dishes saves more money than a dishwasher

False!

Washing dishes with hands typically uses a lot of water. Go for an efficient dishwasher & it can help you save by minimizing water consumption.

Many thanks to the Dolans!!

Don’t Sign Another Mobile Phone Contract

Heated competition in the mobile communications industry is creating lots of options for consumers. There’s no reason you should ever have to sign up for another 24-month contract that keeps you stuck in a pricey calling plan. Check out these cheap no-contract alternatives.

Peek. This is an ideal option especially for kids & teens, who are more into texting & emailing than actually talking on the phone. Peek devices look a lot like a Blackberry, but w/o phone capability. They send & receive email & text messages anywhere in the U.S, no WiFi necessary. The device itself costs about $70.00. After that, you pay a flat monthly rate of unlimited email & texting for as little as $15.00 a month. There are no contracts, no hidden fees. One thing Peek does not offer is the ability to transfer your current phone number. Learn more at www.GetPeek.com.

Kajeet. Here’s a company that caters to kids who want to stay connected by offering cheap service & award-winning parental controls. Kajeet will transfer your current numbers & offers a full range of kid-friendly phones that start at around $24.00 for a refurbished unit. Monthly service requires no contracts & starts as low as $14.99 for unlimited texting & 60 minutes of talk. Check out the cool phones & learn more at www.Kajeet.com.

Net10. A perfect option for light cell phone users, there are no roaming charges, no hidden fees, no long distance charges or monthly bills. You pay a flat rate of $0.10 per minute, up front. Their Easy Minute monthly plans start at $15.00 for 200 Easy Minutes for your choice of talk, text/pictures messaging, web/email & calls to 411. You can cancel anytime w/o cancellation fees. Net10 phones start at $29.00, & are available at Walmart stores or online from Net10. Learn more at www.Net10.com.

Common Cents Mobile. Here’s a service that offers a pay-as-you-go mobile plan, as low as $0.07 per minute or per text message. Monthly plans start as low as $20.00 a month with no contracts or hidden fees & no credit checks, roaming or long distance charges, either. Bonus: This plan rounds minutes down, not up. If you talk for 2.8 minutes, that call is charged as only 2 minutes, not 3 minutes, the way other services round up. Buying more airtime is simple, too. Learn more at www.CommonCentsMobile.com.

Cricket Communications. Here’s a nationwide service with high-quality coverage that does not require contracts & does not hide fees. Calling plans start as low as $35.00. You can get unlimited talk, text & web starting at just $45.00 a month. Learn more at www.MyCricket.com.

You’ve got even more options with companies such as MetroPCS, Straight Talk, Boost Mobile & Virgin Mobile. Want even more? Do a Google search for “No-contract phones,” “Pay as you go mobile” or “Prepaid cell phones.” You’ll be amazed how many options you have. Just make sure you read the fine print, research thoroughly, & then go for it!

As for the money you won’t be spending on phone service in the months ahead, determine right now that you’ll divert it straight to savings. Now you’ll really enjoy the decision.

allyou.com

Natural Mosquitoes Repellents

It's hard to tell which is worse to have on your skin, the mosquitoes or the commercial repellents!

It's very easy to make your own natural mosquito repellent. These natural products will effectively repel mosquitoes, but they require more frequent reapplication (at least every 2 hours). The more different oils mixed together the better it should work. As you can see, natural repellents tend to be plant oils.

Citronella Oil

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

Cinnamon Oil

Castor Oil

Rosemary Oil

Lemongrass Oil

Cedar Oil

Peppermint Oil

Clove Oil

Geranium Oil

Possibly Oils from Verbena, Pennyroyal, Lavender, Pine, Cajeput, Basil, Thyme, Allspice, Soybean, & Garlic

read more here

You had a great time camping except for all the bug bites you came home with. Douse those itchy spots w/a cotton ball soaked in vinegar. It should help relieve the itch.

-Uncommon Uses for Common Household Products by the editors of FC&A October 2000

Online learning tools that don’t cost a dime

Before you fork over any cash for tutors, try these free educational aids.

From pricey classes to expensive tutors, helping your child to get ahead in school can add up. Luckily, the Web is chock full of free educational sites that help your kids learn, through quizzes, games & more.

Quiz your kids online: Some of the most effective online learning sites use a quiz format, allowing your child to interact with the material.

Math: MathPlayground.com

Geography/Trivia: Sporcle.com

Typing: TypingWeb.com

All Subjects: ThatQuiz.org

Get homework help: From kid-friendly encyclopedias like FactMonster to online videos about math, helping with homework just got easier.

HippoCampus.com, for older kids

FactMonster.com, for younger kids

FreeMathHelp.com

OnlineMathLearning.com

HomeworkSpot.com

Get gaming: Online games will keep your child entertained enough to forget they're practicing multiplication!

Move away from the screen: Eyes getting bleary from educational shows & games? Many sites offer thousands of free worksheets to help your child with their classes – all you have to do is click & print.

ABCTeach.com

TLSBooks.com

SchoolExpress.com

Thank you Allyou.com

Teaching Kids About Money Teaches Parents, Too

Children inherit their financial behaviors from their parents.

You can start teaching your kids about money by simply explaining to them what you’re doing when you make day-to-day saving & spending decisions. And even when you blow it, don’t stop teaching. Let real life give you the opportunity to teach them what to do under those circumstances, too.

Never spend it all

Show your children how to save money. Tell them what a retirement account is, how interest works to make money grow. Most importantly, teach them that they never will be broke if they always save for the future.

Delay gratification

Look for opportunities to explain about waiting until you have the money to buy all the things the family would like to have. It’s better to save now & pay later. Teach the difference between needs & wants. Children need to understand how making financial sacrifices today can improve their financial situations in the future.

Compare prices

The grocery store is a great place to show the kids how you compare unit prices—the product’s price per ounce. Show them that just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it’s the best value. Comparing prices is like getting a second opinion so you can make the best decision.

How banks work

Kids think ATMs are magic, so this is a lesson you need to address soon. They see you stick a plastic card in the slot, & out pops money! The underlying truth in all of banking is that you have to deposit more than you withdraw; you can only take out what you’ve put in. Teach them how a checking account works. Let them catch you in the act of recording the checks you write & reconciling the monthly statement.

Debit & credit cards

Your kids are growing up in a plastic world. It’s important that they understand as soon as possible what that means. First, it’s easy to create a mountain of debt or blow through the contents of a bank account with a little piece of plastic. More importantly, there’s a big world of consumer credit pulling on them to use plastic to live beyond their means. Even if you’ve made mistakes by using credit cards, you can make that a learning experience for your kids. You don’t need to reveal all of the details, but an occasional financial faux pas can provide a great opportunity to humanize money management. Kids benefit from seeing how problems are solved, too.

Talking to your kids often will give you the opportunity to communicate about life’s many lessons. Teaching them about money will be eye-opening & fulfilling not just for them, but for you, too.

Many thanks to Mary Hunt!

Before Hiring a Contractor

Be sure each person is licensed & insured for worker's compensation, property damage, & personal liability.

1. Get recommendations

Start with your friends & family

2. Do phone interviews

•Do they take on projects of your size?

•How long until they can start your project?

•Can they give you a list of previous clients? References.

•How many other projects would they have going at the same time?

3. Meet face to face

Based on the phone interviews, pick three or four contractors to meet for estimates & further discussion.

It's crucial that you two communicate well because this person will be in/at your home for hours at a time.

4. Investigate the facts

Now that you've narrowed your list, put your research to use. Call up former clients to find how their project went & ask to see the finished product. Don't be shy. Most people who've recently remodeled are proud to show off their homes.

5. Make plans, get bids

A contractor will want a sense of what homeowners want out of a project and what they plan to spend. To compare bids, ask everyone to break down the cost of materials, labor, profit margins & other expenses

6. Set a payment schedule

If the contractor requests a deposit before starting work, do not pay more than 10% or $1000, whichever is lower. Make additional payments as the work progresses. Remember: money is your only leverage for getting things done. Don't sign a completion statement or make the final payment until the job has passed final inspection.

7. Don't let price be your guide

If one bid is seriously lower than the others, be suspicious of inexperience

8. Put it in writing

Draw up a contract that details every step of the project

The contract should include:

* Both of your names & addresses & details of all work to be performed.

Don't forget to specify who will be responsible for demolition, cleanup, & trash collection.

* Materials

Do your homework; go to a home improvement center to price the fixtures and finishes you want.

* Payments & dates.

Be sure to include a start/completion date & details on when & how payments will be made.

The four most expensive words in the English language? "While you're at it...."

More info & many thanks to Tom Silva & Don Vandervort,

Sweetest Day

According to Wikipedia

The first Sweetest Day was planned by a committee of 12 candy makers & they called themselves "The Sweetest Day in the Year Committee", they distributed over 20,000 boxes of candy to "newsboys, orphans, old folks, & the poor" in Cleveland, Ohio. in 1921

Sweetest Day is on the third Saturday in October

You don't need to make extravagant gestures to show someone what they mean to you. Sometimes it is the simple things that have the most meaning

Make his/her favorite dessert (NOT your favorite…theirs)

Send a free e-card to that special someone here

Clean the house…This does not sounds like a treat for some, but for others, one of the greatest gifts could be coming home from work, after a long week, & having the house be spotless & smelling good

Put a love note in his/her lunch

Call a relative you haven't spoken to in a while

Frame a special picture of the two of you together

Massage…No need to go to an expensive salon when you can do this done at home

Remember, Sweetest Day is about showing that special someone that they are indeed special to you. It's not about emptying your bank account!!!

Get in touch with the spirit of Sweetest Day by helping others. Remember the original intention of Sweetest Day by giving of your time or your resources to those that have less than you do.

This might be volunteering at a senior center or LACASA or giving a Sweetest Day bouquet to someone who is ill.

How to Extend Cell Phone Battery Life

Turn off Bluetooth - It will drain your battery very quickly

Use a black background - Alot less power is used displaying black instead of white

Unused apps - turn 'em off

Back light - If you have to use the back light, many phones will let you set the amount of time to leave the back light on, shorten that time

Vibrate function off - use just the ring tone as low as possible.

Stop searching for a signal - When you are in an area with poor or no signal, your phone will constantly look for a better connection, & will use up all your power doing so

Charge with care - Once your cell phone is done charging, remove the phone from the charger

Reboot - You can simply turn the phone off (not to airplane mode or sleep mode) & then turn it back on

Handle with care - Dropping or handling your cell phone roughly could damage your battery

Keep cool - Room temperature. No high temperatures, Avoid leaving your phone in a hot car or in direct sunlight

Turn the phone off - If you don't plan on answering the phone while you're sleeping or after business hours, just turn it off. Do the same if you are in an area with no signal

Here is a recap of past broadcasts...

to help you save money & time!

Avoid These Five Tricky Pricing Gimmicks

"Some of us enjoy bargain hunting; some don’t.

Whichever category we fall into, we need to be aware that retailers employ a laundry list of tricks in order to get us to spend more.

Here are some way to watch out for & how they work.

Dangling the Bait

Companies want to get you in their stores any way they can. They may offer free items or deeply discounted items called “loss leaders” that may lose them money; their aim is to lure you into their stores & then get you to buy pricier items once inside.

Another version is the "up-sell". Customers are enticed into a store for one product & end up being sold a more profitable one.

Unexpected purchase add-ons, such as warranties, are high-profit products. The retailer knows that the odds are in their favor that the customer will never exercise the warranty.

Alternatively, they may offer a fantastic deal on an item that is in short supply, hoping you’ll buy something else when you find it’s out of stock.

Discount tricks

Retailers may offer good deals, but still manage to get you to buy more than you otherwise would. For example, get 10 for $10.00 Many people think they have to buy 10 items to get the great deal, so even though they really only need 2 or 3, they buy all 10. The deal usually still works even if you only buy 1 or 2, though many consumers don’t realize this.

Another variation is offering, for example, $10.00 off a $50.00 purchase. Often you have to spend extra to get up to the $50.00 limit.

Or they may offer a gift card for spending a certain amount. Again, not only do you sometimes have to spend extra to qualify, often the amount of the gift card is so small that you will have to add your own funds to get what you want.

Location

As in real estate, it’s all about location. Stores love to put the popular items in a place where you have to walk past & be tempted by higher-profit items. There’s a reason bread is not in the checkout lane.

Remember that higher-profit items are usually placed at eye-level while lower-profit items are placed lower on the shelves.

Checkout lines are notorious places for higher-profit items; sure, that $1.70 cold soda seems cheap, but not when you realize you can buy three times the amount of soda at half the price if you just walk a few extra steps & buy a 2-liter bottle instead.

Number tricks

Retailers know we’re lazy when it comes to math and numbers. We assume bigger sizes mean better deals, but that’s not always true.

Have a calculator handy so you can check for yourself. Another ploy is using prices ending in 9, 99 or 95. When we see $7.99, we’re conditioned to see $7.00 rather than $8.00, and we feel like we’re getting a bargain.

Pressure

Retailers place limits on quantities, believing if we think the product is scarce, we will buy more. The going-out-of-business sale is another form of pressure; if you think your opportunity is limited, you may jump on the sale quicker than you would otherwise. This particular gimmick has been so abused that some states are enacting laws to limit liquidation sales.

It’s the nature of business to make a profit, but you don’t want to be the one to pay. Be aware of their tricks, keeping in mind that there are many variations. Remember: It’s not usually a good deal if you end up spending more than you intended."

Thank you Cheryl Johnson!!

Getting The Best Black Friday Deals

November 25th is the day...

Here are some Black Friday tips that should get you the best deals but also give you some peace of mind once you have your items home!

Shop the ads before Black Friday

In the next few days many of the major retailers will release (or leak) their Black Friday specials, so check these web sites bfads.net, blackfridays.info, theblackfriday.com & blackfriday.gottadeal.com, to see if you're getting the best deal.

Shop online first

Before you brave the crowds at the stores, check to see if the retailer is offering the same (or sometimes even better) deal on their web site.

Sign up for e-mail alerts

Many retailers now use e-mail alerts to encourage store loyalty & more frequent shopping. Sign up for alerts that will let you know about upcoming promotions & to receive exclusive coupons or discount not readily available to everyone. You get the inside track!

Check the store return policies

You may know your local chains return & exchange polices, but make sure that they are not different for a Black Friday special. Sometimes Black Friday specials are "final sales". Other items may have a shortened return or exchange policy, or one where you can get a store credit rather than a refund. Also, make sure there isn’t a restocking fee!

Buy the item you REALLY want

Items designated as "door busters" draw us in because of their low prices, but they may not be the best product for your needs.

Don’t buy pricey accessories

Even if you’ve purchased the right TV at the best price of the year, it's easy to be talked into buying pricey accessories, such as costly HDMI cables, that will cancel out any savings.

Cyber Monday Info

Cyber Monday is the Monday following Black Friday.

This year Cyber Monday will be on November 28, 2011.

There will be some great bargaining!!

"'Cyber Monday' Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year"

On Thanksgiving Day & Black Friday people are with their families & hitting the stores.

Non-retail businesses are slow this time of year & people are not thrilled to go back to work after such a festive few days off,

so they hit the Internet at work to extend the holiday & pass the slow time.

Even if they are just browsing the sales without the conviction to buy, you can bet people are looking on Monday!

Here are some web sites that highlight the best deals

www.cybermonday.com

www.cybermonday.net

www.cybermonday.fm

www.cybermondaynews.com

www.dealscybermonday2011.com

www.SuperCyberMonday.com

THEN...

When you find that great sale, look for a promotional/discount code to save even more!

There are a number of sites devoted to helping you search specifically for promotional/discount codes online. Promotionalcodes.com, Currentcodes.com GoPromoCodes.com & retailmenot.com

are some of the top ones.

These websites allow you to search for a specific store name or browse by certain items sometimes even be

stacked on top of each other to save you even more money.

An alternate way to look for promotional codes for a specific store is to simply search it in Google.

Another cool thing to look forward to...

Free Shipping Day 2011 On Friday, December 16,

more than 2,000 participating merchants will offer free shipping with delivery by

Christmas Eve in the continental United States. www.freeshippingday.com

Thinkin about Layaway?

Layaway first became popular in the 1920s & 30s during the Great Depression. To make large purchases more affordable by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable payments.

I've researched & asked around to compile this list

PROS

You don’t have to come up with all of the money at one time.

You can keep holiday presents stored in layaway, so the merchant is holding them for you & you don’t have to find room in your home or hide them from snooping kids or spouses!

If you fail to complete the purchase, it is not reported to credit bureaus.

Big-ticket items may not be out of reach, even if you don’t have a credit card, or if your card is at its limit.

In many cases, the fees for layaway (if any) are less than the interest rate of credit cards. This can potentially save you hundreds in interest charges on credit cards.

You can set aside Christmas gifts or other major purchases without worrying that they will be out-of-stock before you have the money to buy them.

You can “lock in” a lower pricing during a sale, even if you can’t afford to buy the item outright while it’s on sale.

If the price of an item goes down during the layaway period, you may be able to get it for the lower price. (Some stores limit adjustments, however.)

Cons

Each time you go into the store to make a payment, you may find yourself tempted to purchase something else you see for sale along the way to the layaway counter.

If you miss payments you could lose all the money you have paid.

Some argue that if people can’t afford to pay for something all at once, they shouldn’t be buying it at all.

If you miss a payment, the items will likely be put back on the sales floor & you’ll maybe out a service fee &/or cancellation fee.

If the price of an item goes down while on layaway, you may or may not be able to get it for the lower price. (Some stores, such as Kmart, set a limit of one “price adjustment.”)

Layaway may lead shoppers, or those with very low budgets, to spend money on things they really can’t afford at all.

The refund may be in the form of store credit or a gift card.

You have to pay it off before you get access to the merchandise.

If you change your mind & decide not to go through with the purchase, merchants will charge a cancellation fee or “restocking” fee.

Layaway fees can be hefty; some plans come with fees to participate.

If the store goes out of business or enters bankruptcy, it may be difficult or even impossible to reclaim your money or goods

Personally I am not a big fan of layaway, I still believe if you cannot pay for it you should not buy it.

The Pros and Cons of Giving Visa Gift Cards

In an article titled Fed Targets Gift-Card Fees dated 11/17/2009 and posted in The Wall Street Journal it was reported that Americans spent $88.4 billion on gift cards in 2008, but left $6.4 billion unused.

Pros

While gift cards are almost the same as giving cash, they are a little more subtle & a step closer to the gift category. Some people may say that cash is pretty thoughtless. I know quite a few cash-poor teenagers that would beg to differ & would like nothing more than cash.

I think that in a way, they can show thought. For example, say a family needs a washing machine & their friends & relatives know about this. Instead of each person giving a gift, they could all give gift cards that can be pooled together & applied toward the purchase.

In this economy they can use it to splurge, or to cover basics.

Visa cards can be ordered online or purchased at your local bank. If you order online you can have them sent directly to your recipient & save a trip to the post office.

Even if you have no idea what someone likes, they can buy what they want with this card.

Give gift cards instead of guessing at what someone might want.

Consumers waste billions of dollars each year on gifts that people aren’t interested in

Cons

Some people can just sense when you use it as a lazy last minute idea. They can smell it on you! Buy a gift card when you think it is what the recipient would most enjoy, not because you want a lazy man’s exemption from Christmas shopping.

They will expire. Usually a year from the date of purchase, most Visa gift cards start losing value after 6 months. It is common for them to have a $2.50 fee each month after the 6th month, until it’s gone.

The problem with gift cards is that you are locked into a particular store, unless you go the visa route and then I’ve always found that I never have enough for something I want from there so end up adding my own money as well.

To find an online or local merchant or branch offering Visa Gift cards, go to www.visa.com/gift.

Also find Visa gift cards at Krogers, Walgreens, CVS, Wal-Mart, among many others.

If you want to personalize your Visa gift card, even upload your own photos, check out giftcards.com or giftcardlab.com.

Wherever you purchase your Visa gift card, take a close look at the fees & expiration dates & make sure the recipient knows those dates.

Recommend they sign on to the Visa gift card website & check their balance when they get the card, & register it if that's an option. A registered card that is lost may be replaceable depending on where you got it.

But, as a shopper, I love the thrillof trying to pick out the perfect gift!.

Inexpensive party planning ideas!

You can actually plan a memorable holiday party without breaking the bank or making cuts on your guest list.

Email invites

There's no need to spend any money on invitations. I found two sites offer great online invitations at no cost Paperlesspost.com & Evite.com

Use what you already have

Check out your cupboard to plan out the menu, instead of looking for recipes with lots of ingredients you'll have to buy.

Let your guests pitch in

Keep in mind, you don't have to provide all of the food & drink on your own. Most people who attend a party want to bring something with them, don't be shy about telling others what you actually need.

If your guests don't want to bring something, you really need to consider new friends : )

Dessert only

If you're a dessert-aholic, avoid the dinner hassle altogether & have a dessert & drinks party.

Just appetizers

Hosting a holiday party from, say, 5-6:30 p.m. or 8-10 p.m., gives you permission to simply offer appetizers or desserts & save. On the invitations, just mention that you’ll be offering "light bites" & "cocktails" so guests know not to arrive hungry.

Donate

You might choose to support your local food bank & ask guests to bring non-perishable items for donation.

Gleaners Food Bank

Have a soup party

Soups can be inexpensive and relatively easy to make, so in lieu of a seven-course dinner,

You can have a bunch of different types of soups & crackers.

Soups can also be made in advance, which leaves you plenty of time to enjoy your own party.

Put a stop to unsolicited mail, sign up to opt out of pre-screened credit card offers at www.optoutprescreen.com/opt_form.cgi.

While you're at it, go ahead & make sure you're on the do not call list at www.donotcall.gov

You wanna return that??

No matter how hard you try to find "just the right" gift for everyone on your list, something might be wrong with some of your purchases. If you have to return a gift you bought or received, you can make the process a little easier by following the advice of the Better Business Bureau.

Before you actually return items, you want to make sure you understand the return policy completely. Pay extra attention to refund & exchanges policies.

Some businesses give refunds; some issue store credits only; some consider all sales to be final!

You need to know when you buy something online, if the store will take it back.

Merchants require a customer to show ID for returns without a receipt; if you're deemed a serial returner you can be denied!

Don't open it if you might return it or don't want it. Always keep the item in its current packaging.

Most stores require returns to be made within a certain time; some stores allow only 7 days to return an item, while other may allow 90 days.

Electronics may need to be returned much sooner.

Some stores have special holiday policies to give people more time to make returns. Once you find out the policy, consider including the information for the recipient.

If the item is defective, the store may advise you to return it directly to the manufacturer instead of the store.

Always include a gift receipt. Without a receipt, the recipient is stuck with the sale price. These days, most stores automatically provide a gift receipt. If not ask for one!

Larger chains may be able to use your credit or debit card number to look up how much you paid for an item & give you an even return or exchange. (Targets does this)

If you missed the deadline to return an item a manager may have the ability to accommodate you. Ask if you can receive store credit. Use your best manners!

Remember be Patient!

Try to make new friends in the long lines!

"Our patience will achieve more than our force."

Edmund Burke

January is here,

which means all sorts of “new” things in our lives –

a new calendar, new batteries in the smoke detectors, &, of course, New Year’s resolutions.

Here are some goals you might consider aiming for in 2012

Take a specific denomination of currency, like the $1.00 or $5.00 bill, that you will not spend this year, but save instead. Be very strict with yourself.

When you grocery shop, ask the cashier to total your order before they take off your coupons. If available, open a savings account at the bank branch located in the supermarket. It’s easy to stop on your way out to make a deposit of the coupon savings total—even if it’s small. It all adds up.

Pay yourself a bonus, a $1.00 each time you eat out & choose water instead of a pricey beverage.

Pick 1 thing that you will sacrifice this year—just cut it out. Stash the amount you would have spent on whatever it is—Chocolate (as if!), French fries, fancy coffees, cigarettes—into your savings.

Whenever you write a check, record the amount rounded up to the next dollar. Then deduct it from the balance. At the end of the month, reconcile & stash the “oops!” overage.

Convert a friend or family member into a coupon shopper

Couponing is more fun when you can share the experience with people you know.

Start a stockpile is the art of buying large quantities of non-perishable items at rock-bottom prices in order to keep a 3 month, 6 month or even 1 year supply on hand.

Sure, stockpiling requires you to spend a little extra now, but you’ll save even more in the long run.

Share the wealth...Donating some of that surplus to a local food banks like...Gleaners Food Bank

Become more coupon efficient

I saved thousands last year & love to coupon,

but I vow not to be so obsessed with it

& set it within healthy boundaries.

Clean Out The Clutter

Ask yourself these questions to decide if it’s clutter or not:

Does it work?

So much of the clutter in our homes is made up of broken things we plan to fix & clothes that might someday fit.

Do I really need it?

Determine the impact of this item disappearing from your life.

Do I enjoy it?

If this item brings beauty and joy to your life, it is not clutter. Sentimental belongings & things that bring true beauty to our lives should be treated with great care & respect, not packed away in the attic to be forgotten.

Am I using it now?

If it doesn’t fall into the 20 percent of things you use on a regular basis, it is suspect.

Will I use it in the next year?

If you are not certain you will use it soon, it’s clutter!

Sell it, give it away or throw it out. One of the best solutions for "good stuff" is to give it to someone who wants or needs it.

Important stuff will be easier to find when you don’t have to rifle through piles of worthless clutter.

Getting rid of the physical clutter in your home is going to do more than free up some much needed space. De-cluttering will calm your spirit, clear your mind and increase your ability to enjoy your current situation, your relationships and your life!

Thank You Mary Hunt!!

FREE stuff in your area!

I called libraries in Livingston County;

Fowlerville, Howell & Brighton

*UPDATE*

Milford Library too!! (Thank you Karen Dobson)

Libraries today have printed materials (books, large-type books, magazines, & newspapers), DVDs, CDs, & audio-books. Services include public computers & Free Wi-Fi, story times, book discussions, meeting rooms, computer classes, reference assistance.

Howell & Brighton have online books …Fowlerville said “Not yet!”

Anybody can be a member. All you need to do is fill out an application & present a picture ID.

Fowlerville District Library 131 Mill Street; PO Box 313 Fowlerville, Michigan 48836

•517.223.9089

Monday–Thursday, 9:30am-7pm

Friday, 9:30am-5pm

Saturday 10-2pm

All classes are intended for residents of the Fowlerville School District area.

The Fowlerville District Library offers free, hands-on computer classes for teens & adults professionally taught by IT Services of Michigan.

Sign-up in person at the Fowlerville District Library for all computer classes.

Howell Carnegie District Library 314 W. Grand River Howell, MI 48843

•517.546.0720

HOURS

Monday–Thursday, 10am-8pm

Friday-Saturday, 10am-5pm

Sunday (Sept-May), 12-4pm

Brighton District Library 100 Library Drive, Brighton, Michigan 48116

• 810.229.6571

HOURS

Monday–Wednesday, 10am-9pm

Thursday, Closed

Friday & Saturday, 10am-5pm

Sunday, 1pm-5pm

Homebound Delivery Service

The Brighton District Library provides free-of-charge delivery of books & other library materials to persons who are unable to come to the library themselves.

Regular & large print books are available, as well as book-on-tape.

Whatever your reading choices: mystery, historical fiction, westerns, romance, adventure or nonfiction, the library will have many things to entertain you.

All homebound residents of the Brighton District Library service area are eligible for this service. You do not need to be a Senior Citizen to qualify.

If you are interested in having books &/or books-on-tape delivered to your home, call 810-220-6571, extension 201, & they will contact you.

Milford Public Library 330 Family Drive, Milford, Michigan 48381

• 248.684.0845

HOURS

Monday–Thursday 9:30am-8pm

Friday & Saturday, 9:30am-5pm

Sunday, Closed

Best bargain in town!!

Saving Money on Valentine's Day

If you are going to celebrate Valentine’s, I suggest you do it with a little forethought. I cringe every time I go to the store on February 13 or 14 & see dozens of men crowding around the greeting cards to buy their cards at the last possible moment

Make a favorite meal that they enjoy. Then have their favorite movie ready (get them at the library or rent them). Or any movie that is special to the both of you--like the movie you saw on your first date together.

Purchase some clear red balloons. Before blowing them up, place either wrapped candies, small gifts, &/or love poems inside each one, & then give them to your loved one as a bouquet.

Does your partner ever ask you why you love them? Then create your own little booklet entitled,"Why I Love You: # Reasons".

Here is a website that has FREE printable Love Coupons

Make a mixed CD of all of your favorite songs, or create a compilation of love songs that remind you of your mate.

End the evening with a special touch, dessert in bed, a special film, a dance for just the two of you, or a bath.

If you HAVE to...you can send an ecard.

Shopping for 1 or 2

Does everything seem to be in huge "family-sized" packages that neglect single-person homes?

Do you find it hard to shop for 1 or 2 people after the children are gone, or because you are single?

Do you hesitate to buy a food item because you have a hunch it will spoil before you eat it all?

Bulk shopping in warehouse size outlets may have worked for the Brady Bunch, but not for the rest of the population.

The cost of buying in small amounts can be high. Things like bread & milk are a must, right? But they are costly & they do spoil fast, then you have to ask yourself, where are you going to put 5 pounds of flour, let alone ever use that?! Fear not, singles! It can be done!

Throwing out food? Ziploc can be your new best friend! Frozen meats can be good for at least for 4 months

Portion the leftovers into containers, seal tightly, label with the date, & freeze for up to 2 months. Storing your food this way will help with portion control too -you can’t have an extra helping if it’s frozen solid!

Immediately when you return home from the grocery store, take out each fillet or patty or breast & put it in its own freezer bag. Then you will have individual meals for one at your disposal.

Eat or freeze leftovers within 3 days

Eat frozen leftovers within 2 months

Invest in Containers…It will keep your food fresher for longer & also more organized. A lot of Containers today are microwaveable & can double as your bowl. Less dishes to wash! Containers are also a good way to save leftovers.