Do you call it stuffing or dressing? Do you know the difference? If not, here’s a hint: Stuffing goes inside the turkey; dressing is baked separately. If you already knew that, did you know this: food safety wise, it’s better to make dressing? If you put stuffing inside the bird, it needs to get to … [Read more...] about Is it stuffing or dressing?
Search Results for: holiday
Green Beans: More than just a side dish
Most of us think of vegetables as just an accompaniment to meat loaf, a broiled steak, grilled fish or roast chicken. But green beans – cheap and bountiful this time of year in both supermarkets and at farmer’s markets – can be the star of the meal. Green beans, also called string beans or snap … [Read more...] about Green Beans: More than just a side dish
Spring into summer vacation savings now
When it comes to planning a summer vacation, there are usually two types of people: Those who plan and book more than a year in advance, and those who decide to wing it and find themselves at the mercy of not being able to shop around. While last-minute travel deals are sometimes great finds, you … [Read more...] about Spring into summer vacation savings now
Senior discounts (almost) everywhere
The phrase "senior citizen" seems so old, doesn't it? But it has its frugal advantages. A few weeks before you turn 50 years of age, you'll likely get an invitation to join AARP. Don't be insulted - be excited. By joining the organization you are eligible for discounts on everything from hotel … [Read more...] about Senior discounts (almost) everywhere
Make sure that daily deal is really a deal
Daily deal websites such as Groupon are a popular resource of the frugal. Many consumers would never plan a restaurant trip or an evening of entertainment before first checking to see if there was a daily deal available, and for good reason. It’s easy to save 50% off everything from meals to Zumba … [Read more...] about Make sure that daily deal is really a deal
Regrow your own green onions in your kitchen
Green onions aren’t expensive to purchase in the grocery store, but they are one of those ingredients that I either forget to buy, or they go bad in the fridge before I remember to use them, which is definitely a waste of money. Green onions, also known as scallions, are great for flavor and garnish … [Read more...] about Regrow your own green onions in your kitchen
7 strategies for frugal urban living (no cheapskates allowed)
The cost of living in a major metropolitan area runs higher than average. Frugal urban living is the ultimate oxymoron because there are just so many fun ways to spend money. Consumer temptations abound in the city. From parking and lattes to fashion and entertainment, the cosmopolitan … [Read more...] about 7 strategies for frugal urban living (no cheapskates allowed)
15-plus stocking stuffers from dollar and discount stores
If you have a bunch of folks on your holiday gift list, you know how fast even small items can add up. This year, why not stuff a stocking for each person on your list instead of buying a gift that needs to be wrapped? First, you need some stockings. You can get inexpensive ones at the dollar … [Read more...] about 15-plus stocking stuffers from dollar and discount stores
12 cheap, easy Christmas DIY decor projects
Ho-ho-homemade is the key to cheap, but pretty, holiday decorations. I mean, have you seen the prices on real Christmas wreaths? Here are some ideas we gleaned from various sources to help you put some sparkle into your holidays without busting the budget. Bonus: Most of these ideas are … [Read more...] about 12 cheap, easy Christmas DIY decor projects
An easy and cheap way to make your own Christmas ornaments
Every year throughout December our family does a Christmas countdown calendar. It's full of activities like making cookies with Mom, swimming with Daddy, driving around town looking at Christmas lights, and 21 more. One of those activities is always making homemade ornaments for our tree and as … [Read more...] about An easy and cheap way to make your own Christmas ornaments
11 Black Friday shopping tips to help you save
Some people love the rush of searching for deals and loading up their shopping bags on Black Friday. This year, retailers are encouraging online shopping, but most will open their doors after Thanksgiving for in-person bargain hunting. If you decide to venture out on one of the biggest shopping days … [Read more...] about 11 Black Friday shopping tips to help you save
The best Christmas gifts of all cost nothing
I often think of my grandfather around the holidays. Even though I didn't know him well, I find myself reflecting on his life when I look at a photo that shows him working on his farm. It’s a reverie that has become one of the best Christmas gifts he gave to me, without even knowing he had done … [Read more...] about The best Christmas gifts of all cost nothing
What not to wear, Halloween edition
Halloween is the most creative holiday, as it makes you put on your thinking cap to develop a great, eye-catching costume every year. Let's face it: ugly sweater contests in December just don't compare. So although October is a scary month from that angle alone, you don't have to be … [Read more...] about What not to wear, Halloween edition
Best easy fundraising ideas for tight budgets
If you have an organization that needs to raise money for a cause, here are several fundraising ideas to consider. Most of these are not difficult to setup, organize, or complete. We arranged them in order of easiest and least cost to ones requiring more organization ability and some supplies or … [Read more...] about Best easy fundraising ideas for tight budgets
Twice I got scammed buying discounted gift cards — here’s what I learned
I’m a sucker for buying discounted gift cards to retailers where I normally shop. An extra 18 percent off at Old Navy or 24 percent off at Michael’s in addition to their coupons and sales? Yes, please! Online marketplaces allow you to resell unwanted gift cards and get money you can spend … [Read more...] about Twice I got scammed buying discounted gift cards — here’s what I learned