Packing lunch boxes with healthy snacks can be a challenge. But tempting as it may be to just toss in a store-bought dessert, a bag of supermarket chips or a commercially-made fruit and nut bar, there are healthy alternatives that can be made at home.Here are few recipes for delicious healthy … [Read more...] about Spa recipes for healthy lunch box snacks
Post page
5 free and cheap things to do in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, was in the spotlight recently as host of the Democratic National Convention. This forward-thinking city that has thrived in the New South is a good place to visit anytime, with plenty of free and inexpensive offerings around town. Here are the top five free and cheap … [Read more...] about 5 free and cheap things to do in Charlotte
Daily savings for papercrafters who like deals
Papercrafting is a hobby that includes so many moving parts — paint, sewing, alcohol markers, inks, mists, stamps, edge punches, buttons, flowers, diecuts and, of course, the paper — it's easy for crafters to get more wrapped up in buying than using these supplies.So by your second shopping … [Read more...] about Daily savings for papercrafters who like deals
How to get a $500 haircut for $20 — or less
I love high-end haircuts by skilled stylists and outstanding color by equally skilled colorists, but alas, I only have the budget for cut-rate services. Problem solved. I get my hair services at some of New York's top salons -- but the services are performed by apprentices, who are all graduates of … [Read more...] about How to get a $500 haircut for $20 — or less
3 ways to maximize what you’ll get from Social Security
Once you hit retirement age, Social Security, Uncle Sam's retirement plan, can make your life a lot better. Here are three things you need to know to get the maximum benefit.Work under Social Security at least 35 years. Social Security is calculated based on the sum of your highest earnings … [Read more...] about 3 ways to maximize what you’ll get from Social Security
Extended warranties: peace of mind or money trap?
Sometimes buying an extended warranty protects your pocketbook and buys you peace of mind. Other times, the cash outlay isn’t worth the cost.What’s the scoop on extended warranties? Is buying an extended warranty worth the peace of mind -- or just another money trap? I can recall only once that … [Read more...] about Extended warranties: peace of mind or money trap?
Beat the heat with frugal Chocolate Snowballs
It was a tradition. Once every summer, my mother made “Grandma Ida’s Chocolate Snowballs.” I learned later that this frozen treat is as frugal and easy to make as it is delicious. I also learned the origin of this family recipe. When I pressed my mother about it, she admitted that her mother had … [Read more...] about Beat the heat with frugal Chocolate Snowballs
Can’t afford a spa? Throw a spa party
Anyone who has been to a salon or spa recently knows that it’s a high-ticket indulgence. It can cost hundreds of dollars for a manicure, hairstyle, foot massage and facial mask. So why not do it at home? And why not make it fun with a group of friends? A group can gather for a day of penny-pinching … [Read more...] about Can’t afford a spa? Throw a spa party
Get free tickets and more when you volunteer
Volunteering to help clean up local parks or feed the homeless is a feel-good thing to do, plus it helps your community. You may not know that there are many other ways to volunteer where you can get more material benefits, too. In some cases, you might see shows for free or get discounts, or gain … [Read more...] about Get free tickets and more when you volunteer
Free house cleaning for women with cancer
If you or a woman you know is battling cancer, Cleaning for a Reason Foundation can help on the home front. This nonprofit organization offers FREE professional housecleaning and maid service for women who are undergoing treatment for any type of cancer.A local insured and bonded professional … [Read more...] about Free house cleaning for women with cancer
Free wheelchair ramps and home repairs for needy
If you or your parents or grandparents need help with home renovations you can't afford, Rebuilding Together may be able to help. The nonprofit organization builds free wheelchair ramps and provides FREE critical home repairs, modifications and improvements to low-income, elderly and disabled … [Read more...] about Free wheelchair ramps and home repairs for needy
Kids’ crafts: Make a braided-rope dog toy
When it comes to kids' crafts, I like projects they can make and use rather than just make and throw away. During a recent sleepover in my house, I enlisted the help of two kids to try out one of the DIY projects I have bookmarked on Pinterest.Using fleece fabric left over from winter projects, … [Read more...] about Kids’ crafts: Make a braided-rope dog toy
7 tips for frugal pet ownership
Do you have a pet? If you're like 62% of Americans, you do. And get this: We pet owners--I've had my dog, Buffy, for 10 years -- will spend about $52 billion on our pets in 2012. That's just crazy.If you're reading this, clearly you are interested in ways to save money in all areas of your life. … [Read more...] about 7 tips for frugal pet ownership
How to make money taking surveys
While I don't advocate taking part in research surveys as a full-time occupation, those with the time and inclination can earn cash and gift cards for major retailers. Most of the major players operate in a similar manner. You register your email address and then complete a basic questionnaire, … [Read more...] about How to make money taking surveys
Free and cheap crafts and classes for adults
Whether you're looking for decorating ideas for your home, camping how-tos or scrapbooking techniques, you've got quite a few ways to try something new on the cheap. During hands-on craft events and expert-led workshops at major retailers, you can participate in jewelry-making demos, find out how to … [Read more...] about Free and cheap crafts and classes for adults