For the six years that our daughters were in college, my husband dreaded filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid more than doing our income tax return. Like students in most families, though, our girls were going to need some combination of loans and scholarships to pay for college. … [Read more...] about When to apply for college financial aid
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Free produce for low-income seniors, moms and children
Summer brings an abundance of vegetables, fruits, and herbs for fresh, healthy meals. But many have trouble making ends meet, and farmers market produce usually gets tossed from tight budgets in favor of cheaper alternatives. The Farmers Market Nutrition Program is designed to help low-income … [Read more...] about Free produce for low-income seniors, moms and children
Card-making tips in time for Mother’s Day
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Few of us like being held hostage for a $5 to $8 card the week before Mother's Day, but we do it anyway because we love our moms. Sure, the crafty people get around that by making their own — and the only thing they have that you don't are instructions. That's about to change.You can easily make … [Read more...] about Card-making tips in time for Mother’s Day
Cheaper egg decorating ideas for family fun
Easter is just around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s time to get creative with egg decorations! And this year, with egg prices double and triple what they normally are, it's time to think outside the box on egg decoration substitutes. Let’s think outside the shell and explore … [Read more...] about Cheaper egg decorating ideas for family fun
Cheap healthy food to eat on a budget
It's a common misconception that eating healthy is expensive. That's not true. Sure, you can spend a lot on fancy health foods, but it's not necessary. Many low-cost foods are also good for you.A healthy diet is made up of a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy … [Read more...] about Cheap healthy food to eat on a budget
Quick easy fundraising ideas for tight budgets
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In today's world, where financial constraints often loom large, finding ways to fundraise effectively on a tight budget can seem daunting. Yet, with a dash of creativity and a strong sense of community involvement, it's possible to achieve great results without breaking the bank. Welcome to our … [Read more...] about Quick easy fundraising ideas for tight budgets
How to create a budget spreadsheet
Budgeting used to involve a paper, pen and hours of work hunched over receipts and bank statements, but those days are long gone. Thanks to modern spreadsheet programs, you can make a do-it-yourself budget in just a few minutes. Whether you are new to personal finance management or a long-time … [Read more...] about How to create a budget spreadsheet
8 easy ways to use stale bread
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We’ve all been there: reaching for a loaf of bread only to find it has passed its prime, now hard and uninspiring. Yet, before you toss that stale bread into the trash, consider this: it’s a treasure trove of possibilities just waiting to be discovered.In a time when reducing food waste is more … [Read more...] about 8 easy ways to use stale bread
April Fool’s Day pranks parents can play on their kids
Why let kids have all the fun? These April Fool's Day pranks are for parents to play on their kids - and are certain to provide harmless pranks and fun! Remember that this is all about having a silly good time, cheaply and frugally, with messes that are easy to clean up! Photo … [Read more...] about April Fool’s Day pranks parents can play on their kids
Military Appreciation discounts available all year
Although May (for Military Appreciation Month) and November (for Veterans Day) are full of advertising about military discounts and freebies, lots of deals are available 365 days a year. As a veteran, my best advice when it comes to navigating military discounts is always ask. … [Read more...] about Military Appreciation discounts available all year
How to watch March Madness without cable 2025
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When spring rolls around, some people are excited about sunshine, warmer weather, and getting outside. However, to college basketball fans, the spring months are some of the most exciting of the year. The NCAA March Madness basketball tournament is an annual highlight.CBS and Turner Sports … [Read more...] about How to watch March Madness without cable 2025
12 tips for buying your first house
For first-time homebuyers, the whole homebuying process may look a bit daunting. You’re going into what could be the biggest purchase of your life with no experience to fall back on. The good news is a little preparation can go a long way and help you approach this major decision with … [Read more...] about 12 tips for buying your first house
When should I use my credit card vs. debit card?
Wondering when is the right time to use credit cards? Or when should you use a debit card instead? There are a few different reasons and times that one is better. Let's discuss when to use your credit card and when to use your debit card! I'll start out by saying … [Read more...] about When should I use my credit card vs. debit card?
Good jobs that don’t require a college degree
There are a lot of ways to handle the high cost of a college education. Most experts agree that the cost will be made up over the life of a career by higher-paying jobs that require that college degree. But maybe you aren’t sure it’s worth it. Or maybe you just can’t afford college right now and … [Read more...] about Good jobs that don’t require a college degree
How to hire a good handyman
You adore your home—it’s your safe place. But that dripping faucet, overflowing gutter, or chipped shower tile? They’re enough to make anyone lose their cool. Enter the handyman: the unsung hero of home repairs, tackling the tasks you’d rather avoid, don’t have time for, or wouldn’t dare attempt … [Read more...] about How to hire a good handyman
