frugal ways
Posted By: meMT on 2008-10-21
In Reply to: Frugal ideas - Siren
I cut my own hair and my children's. I switched to a Trac fone and got rid of cell bills. Food is a huge bill of mine so I try to make every meal stretch further (leftover meals etc). No more fast food or grabbing coffee out. I take out library books instead of buying them. They even have movie rentals for the kids.
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frugal sm
Depends on who is living home. We are not buying anything we don't need, making more home-cooked meals, turning down the thermostat and wearing a sweater, not going to the market unless we eat first so we won't buy more than we need. We are not going out as much and watching movies at home. I like yard sales, although my husband hates them, but I've found some kids movies, board games, etc., instead of buying new. I run a much tighter ship than I used to as far as wasting anything. We bought the energy-saving lightbulbs but find it hasn't made much of a difference, but then again, the rates have gone up. Shopping at more than one store and reading labels carefully for fat content, calories, sodium, etc., and sometimes buying "private label" store products which sometimes are manufactured by the high-end companies using the private label of the store you buy it in, all you have to do is read, read, read, to be sure it isn't imported from a foreign country, etc. Cutting coupons, buying double on specials of the week, it's all common sense. We were too comfortable for a long time; now we are smartening up. But that's just our story as a family, perhaps we were just not walking the walk. Now we are finding things come out just as clean with cold water as hot, just ordinary cutbacks add up at the end of the week. Hope you get more posts on this.
Nothing wrong with being frugal.
While we have a good income, a mortgage, 2 car payments and an RV payment - we have managed to pay off all of our credit card debt and don't really need to be frugal at this point in our lives. But every time I go shopping (mostly at Target and Walmart) I still head for the clearance racks first. I love getting a good deal.
In fact, every time I go shopping my husband knows I can't come home and just show him what I bought, there is always a story first about what a great bargain it was. I told him if we won the lottery I would still shop on the clearance racks! 
Need frugal tips
I love the fall but this is the time of year that I also get to thinking about summer vacation in order to start saving early. I want to take my 7-year-old son to the beach. Does anyone have any ideas for a cheap but fun vacation. We would drive so I know packing to eat on the road would be one thing. What else? Is it cheaper to get a hotel or a condo? Eat out or go to the grocery store? ANY ideas would be greatly appreciated!! TY
Frugal ideas
In this day and with this economy situation we are dealing with in American right now, I am trying to think of ways to save money. I am looking for frugal ways of cutting back. Any suggestions would be helpful. What are you doing to cutback and save money?
frugal with my money.
I understand your frustration. My sister has had her own business for years, put up a website approximately 2 years ago and has not received 1 order from the website in 2 years. She doesn't understand why.
My take as a consumer is that I don't trust buying off websites of anything homemade. You don't know what you are getting, if the site is reputable, etc. Is your work guaranteed? I'm afraid I'm not very trusting with my money in these difficult times. No fan of Wal-Mart, but at least I can see what I'm buying and I can return it at any time.
I know it's frustrating but I wouldn't take it personally.
www.craigslists.com there is a frugal board
That when people start learning frugal techniques, that it then becomes fun, like a support group, with gentle competition who can get the best for the least.
Need tips on teaching husband to be frugal..sm
Here is the situation...for quite some time I have been trying to be more frugal and really watch my spending and our money. It seems my husband is doing the total opposite. I asked him while at the store to get some fabric softener for the laundry. He gets an $8.00 bottle and I know this store has Downy for $4.99. To some people $3.00 may not seem like much, but over time it does add up. We do not have the extra money that we used to and he thinks nothing of spending constantly. I have said things to him and he does better for a little while, but then it gets out of control. I had to convince him that he had to get a part-time job because we were sinking fast as he changed jobs and took and major pay cut.
He even asked me today after stating he wanted to go get something from the store why are we broke? I said we are not totally broke, but we do not have the extra money to splurge either. I go days without spending money. Yes I work at home, but I do have to spend money on gas now because our oldest daughter started school this year. Her lunch is $1.75 a day, but most days she wants to take her lunch box. I am getting so frustrated with him. I work two jobs myself as well as take care of the home and our kids (2). I go to the grocery store and buy plenty of food (breakfast and lunch for him to take to work) and try to make sure that we are not going to the store just because, you end up spending way more money that way. On the days he has to go to his part-time job he comes home before going to the part-time job. I do not even see the real reason for coming home before going to the part-time job. He is only home for 15-30 minutes before going to the part-time job. The reason I think it is crazy for him to come home before going to his part-time job is the fact that it is 13 miles out of the way. He is too old to break and too lazy to make the effort to change. He is more about convenience.
Some times I think if we were to split he really would not survive. I handle all the money and frankly after 14 years I have come to the conclusion he has no money sense. He says I nickle and dime him to death, but money in his pocket is money definitely spent. He has to spend it or die and then looks pitiful when he is broke. But guess what, I'm to the point where I do not even care when he does not have money because he should be more sensible. Just as long as he has money for gas to go to work, forget carrying around money. I feel like sometimes I am having to lie about money simply because if he knows it is there he finds a reason to spend it. I told him he will never have anything because he just cannot learn to do without.
I guess I am finished fuming for now.
BTW, there really is more to it than an $8.00 bottle of fabric softener, but over time it just builds....look for a bargain at least sometimes.
I could loan you my husband for a week. I'm not frugal,
mm
don't know how many ways....
But I just did a consult on a patient that was suspected of having endocarditis and he was not an IV drug user. He had repeated infections with streptococcus viridans and poor oral hygiene. His oral hygiene was stated as a risk factor for endocarditis.
I am sure there are other causes as well.
Yes, you can get it other ways - sm
I have mitral valve prolapse and have to take antibiotics before any dental work or surgery, etc. to prevent endocarditis. However, IV drug abuse is the most common cause, but not the only cause.
Hope this answers your question.
I see it two ways.
I work days and my DH works nights. He sleeps during the day and I can't get in the room during the day. I have to keep my clothes, personal hygiene supplies, etc., in the linen closet so I have access to them. Also we have blankets over the windows blocking out ALL light. I would like an alternative to having the blankets on the windows for one thing.
Secondly I would almost like the second bedroom because I could go to bed when I want. Sometimes I stay up late because he gets up an hour or so after I want to go to bed.
Otherwise I wouldn't want a suite with two beds or two bedrooms.
A few ways to get around this - sm
You can make your appt the first of the day, that helps but no guarantees of course if the doctor makes rounds or if he has a long traffic filled commute, or the first appt after lunch. I find the latter is the best. I go to a dermatologist where the wait in the waiting room was 45-60 minutes; I got really sick of that and moved my appt to the first after lunch, wait time about 10 minutes. The other docs we see are very good, maybe 10-15 minutes, granted they have bad days too but not nearly as bad as those listed below 2-5 hours is just too crazy; I think anything over 30 minutes is out of hand unless there was an emergency. If I was kept waiting consistently at every appt I'd "fire" the doctor and write them a a letter saying why. --Also I would not have paid for the visit co-pay as you did, I would have just left telling them you had had it with waiting and left.
I know it's still a ways off but what do you do?
My husband informed me he will be gone Thanksgiving this year for deer hunting. It will just be my 7-year-old son and I. My parents live 4 hours a way and won't drive down for that holiday and his relatives all scatter to their various in-laws. Anyone else out there go through this? What do you do?
For those that don't go through this, I'd still love to hear what you do for Thanksgiving. I've always wanted a huge family especially for occasions like this!!
this goes both ways!....nm
nm
That's all well and fine but it goes both ways
Then Christianity and even the mention of God should be kept out of all forms of government, local to federal.
I guess only Muslims can be terrorists. Was McVeigh Muslim? Stop generalizing.
Oh, and what is a mosk?
I'm sure if I was an American Muslim I would be welcome at a mosque.
I'm sure you'd welcome a Muslim with open arms into your congregation.... after he goes through the metal detector.
Okay, I'm done.
In many ways she has changed
Far from perfect but definitely better and being with Nick has definitely helped. Of course, she was just recently holding over Sharon and Brad's head their affair and could go to jail for it, so I guess that is the Phyllis you remember. I have only been watching the show for about 3 years.
There are other ways. Declawing is actually -
an AMPUTATION of the entire distal phalanx in the cat's toes; it isn't just the claw that is removed. It's one of a cat's most sensitive areas. Imagine having your finger and toe-tips amputated, and then having to walk around on them! Some cats go on to have problems afterward with their personalities, or stop using their litter-boxes because it's painful to dig. Even though an indoor cat is SUPPOSED to be indoors, unexpected things can happen: A door accidentally left ajar, a handyman forgets to close it as he dashes out to his truck for an extra tool, unknowing friends or visitors who forget to keep the door closed, or a kitty who is an escape-artist can lead to the cat getting outside. Or, in the midst of a catastrophe, such as a flood, fire, earthquake, etc., the cat could end up outside and on its own for anywhere from hours to months. Their claws are their first line of defense against attackers, and their ability to climb is often their only hope of escape.
What I do with my cat is TRIM all the claws regularly with a nail-clipper. Takes about 5 minutes, and is all she needs. Another, rather STYLISH option is using "Soft Paws". They are little plastic tips (and can come in a rainbow of colors!) that are glued to the tips of the cat's nails. They last until the outer part of the nail finally sheds. That would certainly be worth the time it took to apply.
I once adopted a rescue-kitty that had been declawed in all four feet.
Even though she was a gorgeous, purebred, show-quality chinchilla Persian, she had been in four different shelters, and kept getting returned after being adopted because of major litterbox issues. Former adopters had returned her time and again, and she had been scheduled for euthanasia when she was pulled from the shelter by a rescue organization. I adopted her, even though she was 10 yrs. old, because I knew that otherwise she'd probably spend the rest of her life in a crowded rescue setting.
Her poor little feet were so sensitive that she wouldn't let you touch them, and it took a while to get her using her litter box because didn't like to dig in the litter. Even playing was frustrating for her, as she could rarely successfully catch the toy she was chasing.
Also, depending on what state you live in, declawing may not be legal. I would suggest talking to your vet, or even a local rescue organization or other cat expert, about the different ways you could solve the problem without giving up your cats or mutilating their paws by declawing.
I feel so much for you right now. In some ways SM
our situations were the same. When you are in need of someone you are terribly vulnerable. That is how I was at the time, and this man has helped you learn about your brother, and that, too is hitting close to your heart. We tend to fall for those who rescue us, be kind to us in a hard time, etc. I know the psychologist I saw some years ago was lookin' pretty good to me, too! He was there for me, spoke kindly and told me I was worth so much. It is easy to fall, and I know that. I am afraid for you and I feel we are friends who share this. We are only human, and no one is blaming you. I just know how strong a thing this is, but believe me, and I promise this is the last thing I will post about this. . . It takes even more strength to deal with the hurt. Good luck to you, dear. Please value yourself above all else and do what is right for you.
They could research ways that
regular people could go "green." The list could show the most fuel-efficient cars, how to make and set up rain barrels and how to compost and use organic fertilizers. Then they could offer that article to all their parents' home owners associations to print in newsletters. Some churches might put it on their website or bulletin board. They could probably make and sell rain barrel setups, for that matter, and profits could be donated to charities. You know there is paint that works on plastic now, so they could use the cheapest barrels, which is likely those ugly blue plastic things, and paint them neutral colors that would blend in.
My name is one that can be pronounced two ways (sm)
My name is pronounced two different ways and can also be shortened into a nickname. People call me different things. When I go around my old family members I know what they are going to call me. He has every right to be called whatever he wants on a daily basis, but when around family members who have known you by a certain name all your life, it is very unnatural to them to try to call you something else. It seems very fake and superficial. They love him as a person, it doesn't matter what they call him. He can get by temporarily being called something else. It is no big deal.
I need persausive ways to get my
son and husband into counseling for their anger issues....threatening doesn't work.. I will speak to them about it and they will be "good" for a while but then it comes back eventually. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!!
ps my son is 28-YO and this is a learned trait unfortunately (tried the counseling route when he was 15, husband went to one session with him and refused to go back) pulling out my hair
well of course they have paid for it in other ways.
for the poor. That's a just society. I would gladly pay $6 a gallon for gas if my health care were free and my children were going to college for free. That would be a bargain!
there are MANY ways our government
and I believe there are many people angry about the money spent on this war.
They are both amazing in different ways (sm)
There's room in the world for both of them :-)
A couple of different ways to do it.
The lazy way is simply Fritos with Chili on top, but in the Lone Star, we wouldn't dare think of serving chili without fresh shopped onion and grated chedder on top, heated through really good so that when you stir it up, it melts the cheese. Other garnishes used can be lime juice on the fritos, chopped avocado and cilantro on top of the cheese. If the chili is on the spicy side, some folks put a generous dollop of sour cream on the chili before the onions and cheese.
An alternate method would be to layer Fritos, chili, onion, and cheese twice, ending up with generous cheese in a large casserole dish sprayed with cooking spray (or a 9 x 13 baking dish with one layer) and bake at 350 for 45 minutes to an hour. Let cool for about half an hour so it will set. when prepared this way, it sort of cuts in wedges.
The cole slaw is a good complement for this because it is creamy and helps take the edge off the spices in the chili.
If you imbibe, a tall, really cold longneck beer is an excellent side kick for this dish or dial it up a notch with a pitcher of frozen margaritas.
There are a few ways to disagree. You can
respectfully diagree, and you can be nasty and bash. The latter would be the troll.
boss of the ways
Here's one: When my son was 4 we were on vacation, lost, and I kept telling my husband, Go this way, go that way, etc. My son got frustrated with driving around for so long aimlessly had some ideas of his own, and yelled, "Hey, I am the boss of the ways!" He is 19 now and we still use the phrase.
Ways we save
My husband has a 401K plan and we also have mutual funds. I had a very large retirement plan with my previous employer that we rolled over and invested. We're definitely not touching any of it, but it's nice to know if we got into a huge bind we'd have the money available.
That can work both ways
I quit seeing my grandkids because of my son, their father. They were about to graduate high school. I recently saw the youngest, g'daughter at a place where she was working and tried to explain, no I did not give them up but would not come around my son, too toxic. I gave her my new number and said the road goes both ways. She and her brother both driving. Told her to give me a call. That was about 3 months ago. They live about 15 minutes from here. Did I expect a call, not really. I wish them well.
thyroid manifests in many ways
Thirty years ago, a friend's daughter, 15, was thought to be manic-depressive, having breakdown. She was diagnosed with Graves' and medication made immediate difference. Today she's a happy grandma and still doing well.
you did right, and her bratty immature ways will
nm
One of the best ways I've found to
avoid holiday stress -- a Christmas Club. The first year, we just did a $500 one - that's $10 a week. Then after that, we decided to go with a $1000 one - just $20 a week. I know it sounds like a lot, but think about how many times you pick up a $5 lunch at McD's or buy something in the grocery store you really don't need. If you pay it out of your check first (or direct deposit right into the club account), you don't even miss it.
Another way to avoid stress (I have 3 kids, so I do get stressed) for me is to have each of my kids write their lists early, usually early November, after they've had a chance to study the JCP Christmas catalog. Then I get on line starting in November to check for the early Black Friday ads. The more stuff I can cross off on Black Friday, the better for all. I have gotten great deals on Black Friday. Yes, it's sometimes stressful to get up and get those deals, but it can be done.
Lastly, I try to emphasize to my kids that it's the spirit of Christmas that's important, creating traditions to pass down. Kids appreciate that more than anything under the tree.
Wrong ways in life.
Why are you "waiting" on someone to marry you. First of all, the guy you have been with for 10 years is not marriage material. He has told you that and you are really wasting your time. The sentence "so and so could take care of me" is sad. Why don't you take care of yourself? Do not WAIT on a person to do what you should. You have 2 feet, stand on them. You need a job, to work and be self sufficient. The days of old are gone when most women stayed home and the men "took care of them." You are wasting your life staying where you are and one day you wake up past your prime and wonder what happened.
Plus there are ways of making that extra day
There may be temp work to be had for 1 day a week (a good way to explore other jobs). Or devote one day a week to starting a small business of your own, such as on eBay, or crafts, or doing odd jobs in the neighborhood.
Another way is to spend the day working on the house. Things there weren't time for with a 5-day workweek, like finishing that deck or BBQ pit in the back yard, or replacing a leaky toilet or faucet, painting, weatherstripping, insulating etc. There are lots of things that can: add value to the house, improve heating/cooling efficiency, etc.
Or, maybe one day a week take a class at the local junior college, trade school, etc. It could pay off in just doing something fun or interesting, or in working towards an unfinished degree, or in learning a new trade altogether.
I do both ways, wash by hand and also
clean out food particles and wash in the dishwasher. I have no reservations about doing that. The only thing I don't like are family plates set on floor and animals eating out of those and reusing. Yuck.
Spiritual in other ways aside from God. Don't attend church.
s
Save your money, other ways better spent
NM
karma doesn't have to be tit for tat...it can come in non monentary ways!
x
Ways to maintain mental health...
 Hope these make someone laugh... Makes me wish I worked in an office away from home sometimes...
Ways To Maintain Mental Health
1. At lunch time, sit in your parked car with sunglasses on and point a hair dryer at passing cars. see if they slow down.
2. Page yourself over the intercom. Don't disguise your voice.
3. Every time someone asks you to do something, ask if they want fries with that.
4. Put your garbage can on your desk and label it "In."
5. Put decaf in the coffee maker for 3 weeks. Once everyone has gotten over their caffeine addictions, switch to espresso.
6. In the memo field of all your checks, write "For sexual favors." (I actually do this one!)
7. Finish all your sentences with "In accordance with The Prophecy."
8. Don't use any punctuation
9. As often as possible, skip rather than walk.
10. Ask people what sex they are. Laugh hysterically after they answer.
11. Specify that your drive-through order is "To Go."
12. Sing along at the opera.
13. Go to a poetry recital and ask why the poems don't rhyme.
14. Put mosquito netting around your work area and play tropical sounds all day.
15. Five days in advance, tell your friends you can't attend their party
because you're not in the mood.
16. Have your co-workers address you by your wrestling name, "Rock Hard."
17. When the money comes out of the ATM, scream "I Won!, I Won!" 
18. When leaving the zoo, start running towards the parking lot, yelling "Run for your lives, they're loose!!"
19. Tell your children over dinner. "Due to the economy,  we are going to have to let one of you go."
20. Share this with someone else... its called therapy.
Anyone know other ways of making at-home money sm
I have been transcribing for over 12 years - and I do like the profession and I am grateful that it has allowed me to stay home with my children. But I am getting sort of burned out....and want to do something different for a while at home. Have been looking at all sorts of online sites that advertise working from home but I don't know which are legit. I know this is an MT site but does anyone do anything other than MTing that has been successful? I am thinking of maybe doing MTing part-time to stay up-to-date with it, and doing something else part-time, or maybe just taking a break from MTing for a while altogether. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Dunno, but I guess there are many ways to be an abuser/user, huh? nm
s
forget his hair - it's his school yard bully ways
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