For fall decorating, you could purchase a ready-made scarecrow-on-a-stick from a craft store. Or, you can make your own one-of-a-kind scarecrow mostly using materials you have at home.Here’s what you’ll need Safety pins and/or various lengths of ropeBurlap sack or pillowcase for … [Read more...] about Make a scarecrow from items you have at home
Home & Garden
15 fall home maintenance jobs to do now
With fall in the air, your thoughts may turn to what needs to be done to your home before winter sets in. Many tasks are done much more easily when the weather is still nice. Plus, taking care of routine maintenance tasks now can save you aggravation and money down the road. "If you … [Read more...] about 15 fall home maintenance jobs to do now
5 easy, frugal steps to sustainable living
I’d like to live more sustainably and make choices that are kinder to the earth. However, the magnitude of the changes can feel overwhelming. I can’t see myself living off the grid in a yurt with a herd of goats doing my landscaping. I need simple ideas — baby steps. So I went to the expert, Kris … [Read more...] about 5 easy, frugal steps to sustainable living
How to save money on food without using coupons
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Groceries for a family of four with young children cost an average of about $1,000 a month in the summer of 2023, not including takeout and restaurant meals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s a big chunk of change.But there are ways to spend less on food and still eat a … [Read more...] about How to save money on food without using coupons
12 fixes that will get you a higher price for your house
If you’re looking to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, there are some lesser-known words that match the importance of the famous real estate phrase "location, location, location."Those all-important words? Curb appeal.As the saying goes, "You don’t get a second chance to make a … [Read more...] about 12 fixes that will get you a higher price for your house
How to host a kid’s birthday party for less than $100
It seems as if advertisements for kids' parties are everywhere I go — restaurants, gymnastics studios, the YMCA, hair salons, on and on. It only makes sense that all of these places want in on the kid birthday party scam; they know they can make a fortune hosting one. While it might be easier … [Read more...] about How to host a kid’s birthday party for less than $100
Cheap recipes for your backyard barbecue
Backyard barbecues are a great way to entertain, but even when you host a potluck, they can be a pricey way to party. Whether you are entertaining a small or large crowd at your backyard barbecue, you can still stay on budget. Here is our guide to cooking on the cheap for a crowd at your next … [Read more...] about Cheap recipes for your backyard barbecue
12 tips to avoid DIY repair disasters
The idea of saving hundreds, or maybe even thousands, of dollars when making home repairs is enticing. Surely you can repair those cracks in the wall, caulk around the bathtub, install a new toilet or change a light fixture. Maybe you can handle all these do-it-yourself projects – but, then … [Read more...] about 12 tips to avoid DIY repair disasters
30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
If you’re trying to create a new look in your bedroom or living spaces, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on new furniture or a remodel. With a little bit of imagination and some effort, you can decorate a house on a tight budget by repurposing what you already own and making smart … [Read more...] about 30 easy, cheap home decorating ideas
Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist
It's always fun to get new stuff, and even better if you can get what you need for free or at bargain-basement prices. Personally, I also like getting rid of stuff I no longer need. I find I'm more productive and more relaxed in a less-cluttered environment, but I hate creating more garbage. … [Read more...] about Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist
Conserve water, save money with a home garden xeriscape
Xeriscape is a landscaping idea that works to conserve water through the planting of an attractive, useful, water-efficient home garden. While often associated with desert climates, xeriscapes can save you money no matter where you live. The savings come from your water bill as well as the cost … [Read more...] about Conserve water, save money with a home garden xeriscape
How to start a minimalist wardrobe
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Brent moved in recently, and can I just say?The boy has a lot of stuff. Holy cow. In fact, I think he has more clothes than I do. Which is fine, because I really don’t have very many clothes. I teased him a little about it, and he got rid of a few more shirts, but the fact of the matter is, I … [Read more...] about How to start a minimalist wardrobe
Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
The birthday dilemma: Parents want their children to have great childhood memories – but is it necessary to dish out the big bucks for an expensive kid’s birthday party? The short answer is no. When I did an impromptu poll with my kids, my daughter piped in right away that her … [Read more...] about Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
How to create your own retirement community
A few years ago, Marianne Kilkenny’s elderly parents moved into an assisted living community. That got her thinking about her own plans because she didn’t want to end up in a similar community or a facility run by a company.Kilkenny, 65, the founder of Women For Living in Community, is among a … [Read more...] about How to create your own retirement community
How to save thousands around the house
We are all looking for ways to save money, especially if you are a homeowner. Homes and their regular upkeep and maintenance can easily drain your wallet. In this busy world, there can still be ways to DIY that don't consume every second of your free time but still save thousands on home … [Read more...] about How to save thousands around the house
