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Sunday, March 8, 2020

Book Review: Your Money or Your LIfe

Your Money or Your Life by Joe Dominguez and Vicki Robin is a “must read” for everyone who deals with money (that’s everyone)!

The book walks you through the steps of finding out where you are financially. It forces you to calculate your spending down to the penny and find savings opportunities. The book walks you through determining your values and goals to find ways to put your money to work towards the future. 

It is different from the typical budgeting book in that it focuses less on specific tips of how to save money, and more about examining needs versus wants. It speaks to the value of your time and whether your spending is aligned with your values.

You can visit your local library to check out a copy or buy a used copy very reasonably through Amazon by clicking on the link below.


Thursday, September 19, 2019

Things to Remember When Shopping on eBay

If you're looking to save money, eBay can be a great tool.  You do need to be careful to not get caught up in an adrenaline fueled bidding war.  But if you make smart choices, you really can find some great deals.  Here are some tips on how to make the most of it.

1) Buy things you actually need.  This might seem like a no-brainer, but there are tons of cool things on eBay and it's easy to make impulse buys.  Make a list of common household things you buy, particularly in large quantities.  Search for these specific items rather than browsing and being tempted by all sorts of other neat things.

2) Make sure you have room for them.  You may be able to get a great price if you buy a large quantity of something, but make sure you have the room to store all of them.  Buying 10 cases of toilet paper may get you a great price, but if you don't have anywhere to put it, you're going to be annoyed by your purchase.

3) Buy non-perishables.  Don't buy things that will spoil before you use them.  Remember, it's only a good deal if you can use all of the product before it becomes unusable.

4) Not everything is a good deal.  You might be surprised how many people buy things on eBay for more than what you can buy them for in the store.  Don't assume that everything you see is a good price.  Do some comparison shopping to make sure you're getting a good deal.

5) If it saves you a trip to the store, it might be a good deal.  If you only need a couple things, buying on eBay could save you a trip to the store.  This saves you money on not only gas costs, but also prevents you from buying other stuff while you're out or spending money on a latte on your way to the store.  Think about your total cost!

Here are some things that I commonly buy on eBay: deodorant, razor blades, kitchen gadgets, body spray, shaving cream, and make-up.  What is your favorite eBay find?

Thursday, August 29, 2019

How to Make Your Own Applesauce

Applesauce is a delicious snack that is also very nutritious. But so many store bought types contain added sugar and preservatives. Here is a recipe for home made applesauce that is easy to make, inexpensive, and delicious!

Peel and core a three pound bag of apples (between 8 & 9 apples).
Chop into small pieces and put into a crock pot.
Add 1/2 cups sugar.
Add 2 cups water.
Sprinkle in cinnamon (if you would like).

It will look like this:













Cook in the crock pot for 4-6 hours. It will look similar to this:













Mash the apples with a potato masher or meat tenderizer.
Scoop out any excess water to create the consistency you like.
Add sugar or cinnamon to taste.

Put the final product in a jar and refrigerate!















Please share your experience if you try this recipe!

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Homemade Laundry Detergent (Liquid and Powder)

I found this awesome recipe for laundry detergent that I wanted to share with you.  I have been making the powdered stuff for years and really like it.  I've never given liquid a shot, but I think I'm going to give it a whirl.

https://wellnessmama.com/462/homemade-laundry-detergent/

Wellness Mama gives easy recipes for both.  Not only can this save a lot of money, but it's also natural and doesn't contain a zillion chemicals like the store-bought stuff does.

Already tried it?  Tell us how you like it!