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April has finally sprung and with it comes warmer weather, blossoming flowers and lots and lots of rain. Of course, April is one of the prime months to shop. With the weather a bit gloomier on rainy days, many people take to online shopping to keep them busy. Of course, days where the weather seems perfect often brings days of shopping at outlet malls and local stores. No matter how you choose to shop, there’s a few things to keep an eye on during this month. With fewer holidays and special events during this time, you may find that April is the perfect month to splurge a little on something you’ve been longing for! Without delay, you may want to stop and check out these ten items before you decide on any extra shopping expenditures though.

1. Tax Day Freebies
Whether you love Tax Day or hate it, there’s always a reason to kick back and celebrate on such a financial driven holiday. Tax day is the perfect time to save even more money by not spending money at all. Since so many people end up winding up paying in to the government, a lot of local businesses have decided to take pity on everyone who just finished their taxes by providing some pretty awesome free stuff. For instance, many office supply stores will offer free paper shredding on Tax Day, which is a great way to clean out your files so you can prep for the upcoming fiscal year. Some locations give out free massages, so check out your local mall to see what’s going on. Better yet, some restaurants will even give out fast food, which will help take your mind off of the money you’ve lost. Keep an eye out for deals in your area, or look online to see if any chains will be offering their services.

2. Houses
Although it is the season of Spring Cleaning, some people love to take their cleaning a bit far. So far even, that they decide to pick up and move. Thus, April is one of the best months out of the year to go shopping for your dream home. Generally, during this time of the year, you can usually get homes at a lower price too, as many people are more in a hurry to sell, so they can move on with their lives. If you’re interested in renting to own, you may be in luck during April too. Of course, you may want to get in touch with a real estate agent in your area if you’re looking to save the most on your home. Also, don’t be afraid to play the market and walk away if the price doesn’t suit your needs. With the market looking up, you’re sure to find something in your price range in no time.

3. Sneakers
Working out outdoors is popular around this season, so make sure you have the proper shoes to take on any challenge you come up with. Luckily, April is filled with amazing sneaker deals that will make you look and feel fashionable. This is largely because summer is one of the most popular times to sell sneakers, so the market is a bit low right now. If you’re looking to save even more money on your sneaker, then try to find some from last season to help cut the price even more. It’s not just adult sneakers that will be on sale either. You may want to start looking for the perfect sneakers to get your children through summer sports or play dates with their friends. If you really want to get ahead of the game, then you may consider shopping a size or two larger than what your child is already wearing. This will help you do some back to school shopping before school even lets out for the summer.

4. Second Hand Items
Spring cleaning is here to save the day again, especially when it comes to your spending sprees. During April, lots of people will be clearing out their old junk to make room for the new stuff. You know, the old saying goes “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure,” so don’t let this prime time for treasure pass you by. With the influx of donations, thrift stores will be keen to host more sales in order to move all of the product they have. You may be able to find some exciting clothes, books, movies, toys and other remarkable items you’ve had your heart set on. One of the best things to look for during these periods is sporting goods, as many people will be prepping for the upcoming seasons with new items. If you want to find even better items, then try to head to garage sales. You may even get lucky enough to find a great deal on a basketball hoop, trampoline or other large ticket item. Of course, be careful when purchasing furniture from second hand stores, as bed bugs will not do your wallet or your sanity any favors.

5. Green Products
April 22 is Earth Day, which makes April the perfect month to celebrate Mother Earth. This means there will be all sorts of green products for sale. For instance, you should be able to buy seeds, bulbs, trees and bushes for a price that will knock your socks off. If you’re not ready for the whole gardening scene yet, then you should still be able to find some great ecofriendly items too. Items like natural cleaners will be especially well priced during this period due to Earth day and spring cleaning. You may also find deals on solar panels or chargers. Apart from that, you can still think a little green by ordering reusable water bottles, which will help the environment out while ensuring your family stays hydrated during the summer months. Other than that, you may find lots of cheap or free ways to celebrate around the community, which will save you a bit of cash on your entertainment budget.

6. Vacation Planning
Summer vacation is right around the corner, even though it barely feels like spring has sprung. However, in the sense of planning for next season, the time is already ticking away. One of the best things you can do to ensure you’re going to get a great deal this summer is to go ahead and start booking. One of the first places you may want to check is your local cruise line. They tend to have a bunch of early bird specials around now that could help you get more out of your summer fun. Even if a cruise isn’t on your radar, you may want to take some time to check out flights, hotels and other amenities you may need while you’re exploring the world this summer. Even getting park tickets will help you move in the right direction when it comes to summer time planning. Hurry though, because May will be a terrible time to book and you may end up coming up empty handed in regards to deals and bookings.

7. Laptops
There’s two times in the year when you should grab a laptop. The first, obviously, is Black Friday/Cyber Monday as many stores slash prices to try to sell off as much of their stock as possible. The second is the month of April. Although April is a big deal when it comes to flowers blooming and the snow melting, there’s not really a whole lot of marketing gimmicks to fall into. This leads a lot of stores high and dry. So, they slash prices to try to move their stock. Plus, a lot of brands will be coming out with new models, which means the old ones will take a pretty good price drop. So, shopping for last year’s models may save you a whole lot more than you’d expect. You may also want to consider upcoming graduation celebrations as this may be the perfect gift for your college student in the making.

8. Use Cars and Accessories
Now that income tax time has come and gone, you may find a whole lot of new used cars on the market, thanks to everyone upgrading their old cars. This can be a great advantage to you, because a lot of dealerships will want to get rid of their stock. Of course, you may find this month offers a lot more car deals than you’d expect anyway, but this is largely because April is National Car Care month. So, call around and see if anyone is offering discounts on tire rotations, oil changes, detailing and anything else you may be interested in. Websites that sell car parts may also provide you with some unbeatable deals. You won’t be limited to parts alone though as often waxing and detailing kits as well accessories like floor mats or decals will be found on sale during this month.

9. Fall Bedding
If you didn’t have warm enough bedding this past year, or you simply want to make a change, then April is the month to buy your favorite autumn bedding. You should be able to find these items on the clearance shelf of your favorite stores, but you may also want to look online to see what you can come up with. Apart from themed items, you may want to look at thicker duvets, duvet covers and thermal sheets as these items tend to be pricier during the winter months. You may also think about upcoming weddings and graduations as bedding is always a good option, even if it does cater to the colder months in the year.

10. Easter Supplies
The Easter Bunny is long gone at this point, but that doesn’t mean his Easter supplies are. In fact, after Easter all of the supplies will go directly to the clearance shelves. So, if you had your eye on some expensive décor then you may want to go ahead and grab it, because the price will be unbeatable. This is also a great time to stock up on all of the fun Easter basket supplies for the kids. You may even be able to find a few leftover pre-made baskets so you’ll be well ahead of the game when next Easter rolls around. Candy is another must have, as you can find lots of snacks to keep everyone’s sweet tooth happy for quite some time.

Celebrating spring time will only get better when you shop in these ten categories. Before you know it, you’ll save a whole lot of money on things that will help your home flourish while making you a bit happier. So, don’t let the rainy days get to you this season, as now you know just what to shop for when you’re feeling bored.

Spring is finally here, which means your cleaning bug may have already gotten the best of you. Making sure the inside of your home is spic and span can be a challenge in itself, but often cleaning out the garage transforms into a royal nightmare. Between getting into all of the boxes that could house spiders, among other critters, and trying to clean up pesky stains on the ground, you may feel like the garage is a challenge that might be better suited for next year, or the year after. However, there are ways to help you make the most of this cleaning spree. Plus, with a few helpful tips you should have to spend a small fortune on supplies to organize and clean you garage, which will make this job a lot more enjoyable.

1. Dedicate the Time
One of the best things you can do when it comes to cleaning out your garage is set out a time to do it. You don’t want to do it on a whim because this could leave you feeling overwhelmed after a couple of hours of work. This task can be tough, so try to come up with a game plan before you go in blind. One of the best things you can do is work out a schedule. For instance, on the first day, spend an hour or so tackling the boxes in your garage. You can separate the items you want to keep from those that are donation worthy or trash. Once you’ve finished up this task then allocate time for the next. The key is to stick to your schedule though and spend the time working on it each day or on the weekend, if it suits your schedule better. By knowing what you need to get done on which days, you’ll feel a greater power over the task at hand. Not to mention, giving up on the garage could end up costing you money. Without cleaning the area properly, you may miss mold grown or infestations that could cause some major problems down the line.

2. The Five Year Rule
The garage is one of the worst places when it comes to collecting junk that we think we need, but most of the time we truly don’t. Of course, when we go through these hidden items, it’s hard to give them up, which means your storage will only grow and grow over time. One of the best things you can do to combat this problem is to ask yourself if you’ve used or even thought of the item in the last 5 years. If you haven’t and it has no ancestral or sentimental value, then it may be time to kick the item to the curb. Of course, if you’re feeling even more courageous, you may want to drop the limit down to three years. Once you weed through these items, you’ll probably see the junk section of your garage look significantly smaller.

3. Toss the Containers
One of the worst habits we have is placing containers in the garage. Before you know it, there’s about 5 different colors of half used paints, some fluids for the car and some cleaning supplies you don’t want the little ones to get close to. These items can be pretty hazardous, which is why it’s best to get them out of the garage and throw them out. Generally, the worst aspect of storing these items in the garage is the fact they end up changing temperatures quite a bit. This pretty much renders the paint useless and can do the same to your other supplies. Not to mention, you don’t want these items spilling in your garage as the chemicals can be hazardous and the paint will, obviously, stain your flooring. Of course, you should make sure you dispose of the items in the proper place though.

4. Utilize the Ceiling
We tend to pack shelves on the wall sky high and even the flooring in the garage ends up with some crazy pathway because there’s so many items on the floor. One of the best things you can do to limit this hazard and to make it a safe place to actually park a car, is to hang things from the ceiling. There’s actually some great tips online that can show you how to hang up items in your garage without forcing you to spend a ton of money. One of the best things to consider hanging up is items like bicycles or small boats, if you have them. Other items that are perfect are sports equipment, like tennis rackets, or even luggage. The more you can take off the floors and shelves, the better off you’ll be when it comes to organizing the home. Plus, this could help you save a boatload of money on the shelving you were already thinking about buying.

5. DIY Shelves
Of course, not everything is going to be suitable to be hung on the ceiling. You may end up with quite a few boxes or individual items that needed to be stored somewhere other than the floor. Shelving is your best option here, but that doesn’t mean you have to be prepared to spend an arm and a leg on it. There’s actually lots of great DIY projects that you can accomplish for next to nothing if you’re willing to put in the elbow grease. You can easily work around items you already have to build shelves, or you can see if friends and neighbors have anything to donate. Some junkyards can even give you a great price on the items you’ll need. Just, make sure you do all of the proper measuring and ensure everything is sturdy before you begin loading up the shelving. If all goes according to plan, your garage will be safer to walk through and more efficient when it comes to finding your beloved storage items.

6. Invest in Waterproof Bins
We never want to think the unthinkable is going to happen to us, but often times it does. This is why you should try to protect the items you store in your garage by placing them in water proof bins. This is especially the case when it comes to items that are valuable or may be damaged by water. By doing this, you’ll ensure your items won’t be ruined if the roof of your garage leaks, or if you end up having to deal with flooding. Another great thing about these bins is the sheer fact that they close tight. Thus, if the water isn’t going to get in, most likely bugs and other pests won’t be able to either. You’ll never have to fight your way through spider webs just to check out what items you have. Also, your seasonal clothing won’t end up ruined by months, which will save you quite a bit of money. At the end of the day, the bins will more than pay for themselves by saving you money on items you might otherwise have to replace.

7. Research Dumping Locations
Most of the time, cleaning out the garage means making a whole lot of garbage. This is especially true if you wind up finding damaged areas that need a bit of work. This can be a problem in a lot of cities and towns though as often dumping sites will charge you to get rid of the items. Sometimes, people try to get away with putting it in the dumpster, but this could lead to fines which won’t help you out financially. The best thing you can do is sit down and start researching dumping sites before you load up your vehicle with the items. This will give you time to find the best place to go, so you can maximize your savings. If you think you may have more junk to throw away than you can haul then you may also want to check around for the prices of companies that will haul off the items for you. This may be more cost efficient than renting a truck to haul the items off.

8. Donate
One of the best ways to offset any charge you may have to pay for the cleaning process is to donate the items you come across that you don’t want. Most charities will quickly give you a receipt for what the items may be worth, which will allow you to write off these items on your taxes at the end of the year. Of course, you’ll want to make sure your donations fit the criteria though. For instance, most charity organizations can’t take mattresses, couches or chairs that have holes in them. You must also ensure that your technology is in good working order, as items that don’t turn on will be considered junk. Luckily, most items won’t be a problem, so you can really earn some money off of all of your hard work.

9. Clean the Floors
Once you can see the floor, you’ll probably find it was due for a cleaning a few years ago. Don’t let this discourage you though, as you can easily whip it into shape with little effort. Obviously, the first thing you’ll want to do is try to sweep as much as you can. This will help get rid of spider webs and other problems too. Once your floor is dirt free then it might be time to consider getting rid of the stains that have probably been there quite some time. Generally, in the garage, these tend to be grease stains, which is nothing to worry about as far as cleaning goes. Of course, formulas designed to get rid of grease can cost you a small fortune though. Rather than doing this, you may want to make your own. There’s lots of natural degreasing formulas you can use, which will help keep the cleaning process healthy for you and the planet. If you tend to work on the car often in the garage, then use an old rug to help prevent more stains. You can find one of these at the thrift store, or simply use one that you own that is already worn out.

10. Ask for Help
If you don’t have to, you shouldn’t have to tackle the garage on your own. Ask your spouse and children to help out, so the job can go a lot faster and you won’t end up losing momentum. Apart from doing the actual work, you might want to stop and ask neighbors, friends or family if they have a truck you can borrow, so you can haul away garbage or donation items. Other than that, you may want to invite neighbors and loved ones over to see if they want any of your items. You may even consider charging for them to earn a bit of extra money. All in all, asking for help will make your spring cleaning go smoother and won’t leave you hurting for money.

Cleaning out your garage can be a big job, but once you finish the task you’ll feel incredible. With these simple tips, you should be able to get the job done in no time, while ensuring your budget doesn’t go down the tube. Now, you’ll know the hazards in your garage will be a minimum, so you can rest easier.

Whether you’re about to graduate from college or high school, student loans may be weighting heaving on your mind. These pesky little pieces of paper that help you make your way through college can seem to start off as only a minor threat, but by the time you’re ready to start paying on them, you may feel like they are causing your world to quickly crumble around you. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to help get this unwanted debt out of your hair a lot faster. This will certainly help create piece of mind, while also keeping your expenses down. Between interest costs piling up and paying on the bills you have to, your financial life may be a disaster. Take a deep breath though, because there is a light at the end of the tunnel and these tips will help you make it through a whole lot faster.

1. Pay Extra
Money isn’t always going to be on your side, but when you are feeling more comfortable with your financial stance, make sure to pay a little extra on your loans. This will help cut down the interest costs, by paying them before they add up and force you to spend even more on them. The best policy is to add whatever you can extra to each billing cycle. You could even pay the bill twice a month, to help cut down on the amount you’re knocking off of your loan. Even if you don’t have a lot to spare, you can quickly make a difference by tossing in a little extra. For instance, if you can, put in an extra $5. Even if things are too tight to swing this on your budget, you may simply consider rounding the cent portion of your bill up to the next dollar. This will still give you that extra cushion, so you won’t spend as much as the years pass.

2. Consider Consolidation
Before it’s all said and done, a lot of students wind up with a lot of different loans from a lot of different places. This can be really hard to keep up with, even for the most well organized people around. Worse yet, even if you have a series of many small loans, your average monthly payment is going to be about $50 per loan, depending on the amount. Since all your loans are from various companies, you may find that this adds up faster than you’d like it to. One solution, is to consolidate your loans. This basically means that a company is going to take all of your student loan debt and add it together so you’re only paying one monthly bill. This can be a huge relief, especially if you’re struggling with money straight out of school anyway. Of course, you should make sure to look around when you’re consolidating your debt, as some companies charge more than others. If you’re not sure how to even go about this then make sure to meet with a financial advisor, before the student loan bills start coming in the mail.

3. Auto Enrollment
Paying online is probably one of the most common ways to take care of bills these days. However, signing up for auto-enrollment seems to make people a bit nervous. It makes sense that you’d want to have control over when money is going to come out of your bank, but when it comes to paying your student loans, you may want to stick with the auto-enrollment plan. A lot of loan companies will actually take a small percent off of your loan interest or provide you with another reward when you sign up for this method. It reassures them that you will be paying your loan while offering you a little money back on your investment. Although you will have money coming out on a certain day of the month, you will gradually get used to it, especially when you enjoy the fact that it’s saving you some money.

4. Employer Benefits
So, you’ve finally got the degree and the job, but the student loans are making this big success feel like a huge drag. There’s one bit of silver lining to this though. In fact, a lot of employers will actually help their employees pay their loans. If you know your company invests a lot into its employees, then there’s a pretty good chance that they have a program to help you with your tuition needs. Try asking your co-workers to see if they’ve taken advantage of such a program. Chances are, people may not know about it even if it does exist though. If this is the case, then don’t freak out. Instead, try talking to someone above you. Eventually, you’ll work your way to the very top, and if the company isn’t already running such a program then they may be inspired to do so after seeing how hard you’ve looked into it.

5. Loan Forgiveness
Believe it or not, there are actually federally run loan forgiveness programs out there, which can help you get rid of some, if not all, of your student loan debt. The bad news is; these programs aren’t available for most people. They generally work around certain jobs. However, if you feel like you’ve been scammed by your school or your school is under investigation, then by all means keep an eye on the progress of the school’s case and put in the paperwork for a loan forgiveness based on the school’s fraud. More and more cases like this have appeared recently. All the same, if you’re a teacher then you may also be entitled to some loan forgiveness. However, you must work at an under privileged school for some time and meet some other criteria. It’s worth going for though if you know you’re going to be working hard in the first few years after college.

6. Tax Deductions
Paying on student loans is pretty much no fun. However, at the end of the year, there may be a little extra pep in your step when you see that all of the money you paid on the interest could come back to you. Each loan company sends out tax forms with the interest you paid, so you can file this as a tax deduction. Depending on your tax bracket, you should get a good chunk of this money back, which will come in handy. Sure, you can probably splurge and spend this money on something fun, which might lift your spirits. However, the best thing to do with is to put it right back on the loan. This will help pay off the premium balance faster, so you can enjoy having your student loans paid off quicker than you thought possible. It’s almost like getting back reward money from your credit cards, so use it wisely.

7. Volunteer
There’s a lot of great volunteer programs in the country right now. Peace Corps is one of the more famous options. This charity work allows you to see the world, which is always spectacular. While you’re away helping make the world a better place, loan companies will have to defer your loans, so you won’t have to worry about them unless they have a major interest rate. After some time in service, you will receive a stipend for your services, which can go directly to your loan. There’s other ways to give back to the community that don’t involve going abroad. In fact, there’s many programs in this country now that allow you to volunteer in order to put money towards your student loans. These programs encompass things like building homes, working in soup kitchens and cleaning up parks. Plus, they’re a great way to give back to the community on your day off. Although, it may take some time to make a dent in your loans this way, it will allow you to add extra to the loan each month, which will help cut down on interest.

8. Work During Deferment Periods
A lot of students wind up with their student loans deferred while they go to school, which is fantastic. However, for many students, this adds to the whole out of sight out of mind effect that causes the student loan to go from a normal number to one that is the thing of nightmares. This is especially the case if you wind up with a loan that is unsubsidized. Even though you’re probably going to be pushing your limits in school, you might want to consider getting a part time job. Even doing work study at the school can help you earn some extra money. Some of this money can go straight onto your loan, so you won’t wind up having to deal with massive amounts of interest before you land your dream job, or at least the job that may eventually land you your dream job.

9. Have an Emergency Fund
We’re just now breaking out of the bad economy, and if you’ve had to deal with this problem then you probably know being prepared for anything is the best thing you can do. Thus, putting back money to pay your student loans for a month or two is one of the best things you can do for your finances. You never know when you might lose a job, or have to take unexpected time off, so don’t let this stand in the way of your monthly payment. Plus, when you defer these loans due to financial reasons, you still rack up interest. Being prepared to take on the loans without a deferment is your best bet. It might be wise to start with $1,000 in the bank to help with these types of emergencies, but try to build onto it as much as you can. You never know, your emergency fund could wind up paying your loan off completely if you manage to keep it in savings.

10. Meet an Advisor
It might seem counterintuitive to meet with a financial advisor when you’re trying to save money, but you may find it to be one of the wisest moves you’ll ever make. A financial advisor can sit down with you and look at all of your money coming in, as well as the money that will be coming out. With this information, the advisor can come up with a budget that won’t leave you in a bind for money. Most advisors will be able to work it so you have extra money to pay on the debt too. This will help you feel like you have a game plan, so it won’t simply feel like you’ll be paying on your loans until the end of time. This alone will make the bills less of a burden and will give you a sense of achievement for staying on track.

Student loans are pesky bills that can drive you crazy. However, without them you may not have the career you’ve always wanted. With these ten tips, you should be able to find the best ways to cut down on the amount you owe, while making it a bit easier to make those payments every month.

The seasons of spring and summer are big months for jewelry, which is why it might be a great time to pick up a new hobby to keep up with the demand. Whether you’re planning on hitting the spring festivals to sell your jewelry or if you want something chic to wear for your fashionable summer look, making your own jewelry can be a great way to enjoy a fun craft while saving money on accessories. Of course, there is a price tag associated with this hobby, if you don’t already know the tricks of the trade. These ten tips should allow you to enjoy saving money on your supplies, while also becoming a part of the jewelry community in your neck of the woods.

1. Shop Online
A lot of local stores can offer some decent deals on beads, but a lot of craft stores keep these items overpriced. Of course, you should always stop to check out the beads in your local store as you may find a great sale or find some inspiration in them. However, when it comes down to it, it might be wise to shop for your supplies mostly online. Here, you’ll have a greater selection from around the world. The beads tend to be offered at a reduced price too as these stores don’t have to hike up the prices as much to make ends meet. Thus, the savings are usually passed along to the customer. Shopping online will also allow you to learn more about the beads and supplies you’re choosing, especially when it comes to gemstones. Not to mention, it’s a lot easier to compare prices when you end up shopping online too and if you use shopping apps, you can instantly find coupons to help you out. Some sites will even reduce the price of shipping if you complete a large order.

2. Go Wholesale
If you plan on making a lot of jewelry, particularly the same styles, then wholesale deals are sure to become your best friend. Of course, this can also come in handy if you really fall in love with a certain bead and worry that it may disappear from the shopping list. You’ll also save big time when you purchase wholesale for the clasps, strings and other must have items you’ll need to make your jewelry a reality. These bulk buys take a huge price decrease, which will allow you to get more for your money, before it’s all said and done. Plus, wholesale websites often have a large selection which is sure to spark your interest.

3. Network
When you pick up any hobby, one of the best things you can do is network as much as possible. When you meet other people who make and sell jewelry, you’ll not only be able to boost your own sales but you’ll be able to find the best deals available. One of the best places to start your networking adventure is on social media. You should be able to join groups that will help you meet people that can offer tips or simply their friendship. Another great option is to follow or befriend designers that you look up to. Often, designers who aren’t world renowned are more than happy to help an up and coming jewelry maker. Apart from that you can help them with their advertising. Most of the time, when you do this, people are more than happy to share the love. You may also find local designers who can point you in the right direction of the best beads or sales in town, or at least introduce you to some great stores and shop owners who may be able to help.

4. Fairs/Conventions
If you’re into jewelry making, or just getting a start at the hobby then a fair or convention is the place to be. This is a great place to sell your items, if you’re already producing jewelry. Sometimes, the price of a booth can be pricey, but you can always share it with another hobbyist, so you get more for your money. Another great thing about fairs and conventions is sometimes designers will bring along their spare beads and sell them so they can make room for new items. This is especially common if a designer plans on ending their current theme and going in a different direction. Of course, if you’re not already into the designing aspect, then these locations can be the perfect place to go if you want to pick up a free tip. In fact, some designers will offer on the spot courses or can help guide you to tutorials or other resources that will help you get started.

5. Trade
One thing about the jewelry community is many of the people love the actual community aspect of the hobby. In fact, you may even be able to join a local club or group in order to express just how much you enjoy the hobby. These clubs can save you a bundle of money too. A lot of the time, designers will grow tired of some of their supplies, or they simply won’t have enough of an item to continue using it. Often, they will bring these items along to meetings and trade them for other items. This helps save so much money while still allowing you to enjoy fresh new supplies. If you can’t find a local group, then take to the internet. However, be leery of people who plan on trading here as some may be more interested in ripping you off. Try to work through a professional club that will work as a middle man, or check out the user’s reviews before you make a decision to trade in your supplies.

6. Second Hand Stores
Sometimes, if you go to the right thrift or consignment shops you can find some pretty awesome items to transform into jewelry. Often, the items will come in the guise of other jewelry. You may even be able to find some antique items to make your new designs a whole lot better. Some second hand stores will have a great selection of beads and other supplies though. These are usually donated by other designers or come in craft collections, so you may have to do a little digging around to find just what you want. You may even talk to the people who work in the shop to see if they will keep an eye on certain items. If you’re a regular shopper, then a lot of people may be more than happy to help out.

7. Refurbish
If you’re low on supplies and you have a bunch of jewelry you don’t like or use anymore then this could be the perfect way to replenish your supplies. You can easily scrap beads from other bracelets. However, some pieces may be harder to refurbish than others, so make sure to be careful when you are working on more delicate pieces. You may need some special tools in order to accomplish this, or you might want to look at a few tutorials to give you some inspiration or help regarding how to go about your refurbishing. If you’re in luck, you may even be able to come up with a whole new line of jewelry based on items you never even wear anymore.

8. Use Coupons
The great thing about shopping for craft supplies, like those needed for jewelry is that you can find some major coupons for these items. There’s tons of online coupons for these, especially if you subscribe to apps that are designed to help you find coupons. Of course, one of the best places to find coupons is actually in your local stores. Big craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michael’s Craft Store actually put out some pretty awesome coupons every week. You can easily find coupons for up to 75% off on some items. The best thing you can do is hold off on some of your items, so you can use the big coupons to save the most about of money. If you get a coupon for a large sum off an item then wait and buy a more expensive item using this coupon. You can use coupons that take off the entire sum on a purchase for smaller items. All in all, if you shop wisely and use your coupons you should be able to save some big money. You may even be able to find some amazing Groupon deals for classes if you have friends who are also into the craft.

9. Take a Class
One of the best things you can do for your hobby is take a few classes, so you can improve your abilities. If you sign up for a course in your local area then there’s a good chance that supplies for the course will be covered, which will mean you’ll be able to make a new piece of jewelry without having to worry about paying for supplies. Sometimes, you can even try working with materials that you normally wouldn’t splurge on, which will give you new inspiration for the hobby. Of course, you don’t always have to take to a local class. There’s actually lots of online courses you can try on for size too. Although these won’t include supplies, they will allow you to improve your skills, so you’ll end up with flawless works of art that will look great on you, or will sell easier to your potential clients.

10. Make Your Supplies
If you really want to progress in your jewelry making skills, then you might want to try making your own supplies. There’s a whole lot of different things you can make to ensure each of your pieces show off more of your creative side. Weaving is one of the first and easiest steps to take when it comes down to it and you can probably create lovely woven pieces that will suit todays best trends. You may also want to try out carving your own wooden beads as this will be both relaxing and will allow you to create a more authentic bead. Metal casting is another option if you love making pendants and other detailed accessories. Last but not least, you may want to check out glass blowing, which will allow you to make colorful beads that will look spectacular on a bracelet, necklace or earrings. You can easily look up tutorials for all of these crafts for free, which will ensure you can easily unlock your talents.

Making your own jewelry will allow you to feel fulfilled while looking fashionable. With these ten tips, you should be able to enjoy your hobby without spending your entire entertainment budget on your hobby. Before you know it, you’ll feel like a professional without having to deal with the budget of one.

With summer coming up, you may be thinking of planning a beach wedding to celebrate your romance. Even if summer isn’t your prime planning time, you may find great joy in a beautiful beach wedding that will make all of you dreams come true. Of course, the price tag on this dream wedding might frighten you if you don’t know what to expect. There are a few things you can do that will make your beach wedding quite a bit cheaper though. In fact, with a little bit of careful planning and a few money savings tips, you should be able to pull off your ideal beach wedding without having to stress out on the budget.

1. Get Your Permit First
One major problem that a lot of wedding hopefuls run into when it comes to a beach wedding is securing a permit. Some couples feel like the beach is public property, so they plan on getting hitched without getting the permit they need to do so. You’ll want to avoid making this mistake at all costs because sometimes you can end up fined over this. Or, you may turn up in hopes of having your wedding and find out that the beach is totally packed and your guests will have to stand between sunbathers and toddlers working on a sandcastle masterpiece. Securing a permit doesn’t have to be a lot of work though. Plus, if you choose a beach that isn’t popular or in a famous city or county, you can probably save quite a bit of money. Once you pick your location, research to see if there is anything going on during the time of your wedding. This will allow you to secure a permit in an area where volleyball players won’t become the star of your wedding photos.

2. Choose a Public Beach
There’s a whole lot of great beaches out there and many people like to shoot for some of the more famous beaches. This is fine, but only if these beaches are public property. This will allow you to get a permit and host your wedding without worrying about the cost of the middle man. If you’re thinking about doing your wedding at a resort, then you may end up spending more than you’d like. These resorts tack on a whole lot of fees, which will make your budget skyrocket before you can say, “I do.” Some beaches are also privately owned, even if they don’t seem it. You can easily figure this out based on signs or when you go to buy your permit. If you can avoid this at all times, unless you have a loved one who owns beach property. Don’t fret though, as there’s lots of great public beaches to choose from.

3. Shoot for Early
Dates and locations can be pretty important when it comes to your wedding and where it will be held. However, one of the most important things you can do is choose the right time. An early morning can be incredibly romantic, especially if you want to create an intimate setting that is complemented by the sun rise. The air will be nice and fresh during this time too, which will make everyone feel the beauty of your special moment. An early wedding is a great way to bail on some of the pricey aspects of the wedding too. For instance, you won’t need to deal with serving cocktails to your guests, or expensive dinners. Securing a time slot for your permit will be easier too and you may even be able to get a discount on the permit itself. All in all, you also won’t have to worry about people getting in the way of your photos, apart from early bird surfers, which will save you money when it comes to the hourly wages of photographers.

4. Enjoy the Off-Season
Like any big purchase, there is a right time to buy it, so you’ll want to choose a date during the off-season if you can. If you’re planning your wedding right now, then look for dates in October or November, or any time between January and March. With the exception of holidays like Valentine’s Day, most of the dates will be open and at a discounted price, so you’ll be able to grab your permit, hotel rooms and other reservations that will keep your wedding on track. When it comes to beach weddings this can be particularly important though, because they are so popular. It may not seem like the best time to have a wedding during these cold months, but if you’re planning a wedding in warmer climates, like California, then you should be able to enjoy yourself without worrying about the cold weather getting in the way of your special moment. Plus, the off-season will also mean you won’t have to work around tourists, which will make your life a lot easier.

5. Attire
One of the best things about a beach wedding is you don’t actually have to worry about all of the attire that you’d have to wear during a traditional church wedding. Since you’ll be surrounded by wet sand you may not want to spend a small fortune on a billowy or over-price dress. Instead, try to keep it simple with a dress that may not drag the ground. This will not only save you money, but will ensure your wedding dress will be preserved for the next generation. You may also want to skip the heels when it comes to a sandy beach wedding as you won’t be able to get very far as you begin your walk down the aisle. Instead, wear a simple pair of sandals, flip flops or go barefoot. The same can be said for the guys in the wedding as you may not want them to ruin their expensive dress shoes. If the weather is particularly hot, then you may not even want to dress the men in tuxedos, as it could cause overheating that will make for an uncomfortable wedding experience.

6. Short and Sweet
Beach weddings are filled with romance and may even create the romantic vibe you need without the whole long ceremony that will cost you a lot more money. There’s a lot of benefits to a shorter ceremony though. For starters, if you plan on keeping it to a minimum then you won’t have to set out chairs for everyone, apart from the elderly or disabled who may need to sit. This will cut down on the price you spend too. The weather can also be pretty unpredictable on the beach too, so you keeping your ceremony short can help you avoid discomfort as well as preventing some of your décor from disappearing if the day ends up blustery.

7. Move the Reception
Often, the beach isn’t exactly the best place to hold a reception, especially if it means extending your permit to encompass a larger amount of time. A lot of people often end up trying to host their reception at the wedding, which could end up forcing you to spend way too much money on food and beverages that will hold up to the beach. If you can, try to book your reception at a hotel, church or other cheap venue. This will allow you to shop around for a better deal, so you can save money. If you can find a venue that loops in entertainment and food, you’ll get the best deal, but make sure to do the math before you choose this route. You should also be able to find some coupons on discounts for venues who look for couples who are using the beach for their wedding. The key is to do a lot of shopping though, which can be exhausting, but is well worth the effort.

8. Keep it Intimate
Beach weddings provide a more intimate setting to begin with, so go with it! Of course, it’s hard to keep your wedding intimate if you have a guest list that is a mile long. In order to make your wedding dreamier and price efficient, try to trim down the guest list as much as you possibly can. This will allow you to enjoy the small setting and will make the wedding more special for close family and friends. A smaller guest list also means you don’t have to book a huge venue to support your guests during your reception. You also don’t have to stress over paying a lot of money for food and beverages. Plus, beach weddings also mean transporting guests from one destination to the next, which will certainly be less of a burden if you have a smaller guest list.

9. Forget the Extras
A lot of people really go overboard when it comes to decorating their wedding. You don’t have to go crazy here as the beach provides some of the best décor around for absolutely nothing. One of the first things you can cross off the list is flower pedals for the aisle or a special carpet to walk on. These things will be totally ruined anyway, so save your money. You also won’t need to worry about décor for the ceremony itself, as there’s a good chance you’ll end up losing most of items to the wind. Apart from that, you can also skip out on the pricey makeup artist and hairstylist. Rather than spending money on these things, you can easily get a friend to help you do this. Makeup can become obsolete during a beach wedding, especially if you end up in the rain. If you do have makeup done, make sure it is water proof and sealed with primer, but you might want to keep it simple just in case the makeup begins to melt. Hair styles can also be blown around, which will ruin all of the hard work and money put into them. There’s lots of great beach wedding hair tips that your maid of honor could try out, that won’t cost you a penny.

10. Photographer
Beach weddings are amazing when it comes to the photos and memories. This might encourage you to spend a small fortune on a photographer. This isn’t necessarily the case though as you can easily get great shots taken from even an amateur photographer. It you don’t want to spend a few grand on a photographer, then leave cameras out for your guests, so they can take photos of their own view of your wedding. You can also hire a student who may also need the experience for their resume. Before you know it, you’ll get your photographs returned and will be absolutely amazed by them. If you have a friend or family member who dabbles in photography, then try asking them to give you a helping hand as many would be more than happy to comply.

Hosting a beach wedding is a great option when you think about it. A lot of people pass up this dream opportunity though because they don’t want to stress over the price. With these ten tips, you should be able to avoid many of the high prices though, which will ensure your wedding will start off on the right foot.

It’s hard to get in some exercise when it’s too hot or rainy outside. Family fun often gets harder to schedule during the trying spring and summer months too. Of course, if you’re a fan of bowling then you know, there’s always a place to go to keep the whole family happy. However, spending hours at the bowling alley each week can really add up, especially if you’re paying by person. There’s a few ways you can enjoy the thrills of the bowling alley without spending a small fortune on it though. These ten tips will help you keep the money in your wallet, so you can enjoy your bowling without the financial stress.

1. Ask About Membership
A lot of bowling alleys love to take care of their frequent flyers. If you’re planning to make a habit of your bowling talents, then you may want to talk to your favorite bowling alley and ask if there are membership options to help you save some money. Often, you can pay a small fee and receive a reduced price for each game you plan. Some bowling alleys will even allow you to earn free games for games you’ve paid for. Even if the bowling alley doesn’t have an official membership program, they may use a punch card system that allows you to get a free game every time you fill up a new card. Sometimes, members of other clubs, such as a country club, can get a reduced price at the bowling alley, so that may be another thing to consider. All the same, there should be some form of club or card system that will help discount your games.

2. Join a League
If you love to give in to your competitive side, then you may want to consider joining a bowling league. Usually, each team must pay certain dues to get into the league, but after that you can enjoy practices and games without having to worry about forking over your hard earned money. Dues may seem a little high at first, but when you consider the amount of time you’ll get to spend in the alley, as well as your very own jersey, then the price will show just how much you’ll be saving. Plus, this is a great way to enjoy bowling as a social activity, which could help reduce stress from work. Not to mention, leagues are a great way to improve your skills as your teammates should be able to offer a few tips. There’s even leagues for kids, if you have a youngster who can’t get enough of the bowling alley.

3. Buy a Pass
Some bowling alleys love to have their customers stop by often, so they offer a Pass. This Pass can allow you to play a certain number of games a day for free during a certain period of time. The pass is perfect for anyone who loves to stop in for a game after school or work. Generally, it’s offered at a reduced price too as you are basically purchasing your games in bulk. Some places hold off on passes until summer time rolls around, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t find the deal right away. Of course, if you take the time to talk to a manager of your bowling alley than you may find out lots of details on passes that will save you money, particularly the date in which passes become available.

4. Shop Clearance
One way to get more out of your bowling game is to buy your own equipment. A lot of bowling alleys will take off a small fee if you’re not using their bowling balls or other supplies. So, it may be a wise choice to pick out your own items. Of course, choosing your own bowling ball can improve your game anyway and may help you transform a simple game into more of an exercise as you can purchase the proper weight. Another great thing about choosing your own bowling ball is you can choose the proper size for the finger holes. You don’t have to spend a small fortune on a ball though as many bowling stores have clearance sales all of the time. In fact, you may even be able to purchase a ball you’ve taken to from your own bowling alley. Apart from the ball itself, you’ll probably want to get a special bowling bag to ensure that your ball is safe and sound and easy to transport. These can be found on clearance too or in thrift stores and auction sites. Apart from that, you may want to stock up on clearance bowling towels and other supplies you think might make your bowling experience better.

5. Maintain Your Supplies
If you spend the money to purchase your own bowling supplies, then you will certainly want to take the time to maintain them, so you don’t have to worry about spending the money to buy them again. One thing you can do to ensure that your bowling ball is in tip-top shape is to rub it down after each day you use it. You don’t want the dirt and grease to set into your ball, so a quick rub down will a ball towel should do the trick. You should also consider giving the ball a 20-minute soak in warm to hot water every few minutes. Of course, if you do this make sure to tape up the finger holes, so your ball won’t be damaged. Apart from the ball, if you have bowling shoes then it’s pretty much imperative that you spray them often to get rid of potential fungus. Also, you should take a wire brush to the soles of your shoes to help get rid of oils that may wear them down over time. If you have a bowling bag, bowling towels or other supplies then follow the care instructions to ensure you get the most possible use out of them. If all else fails, you can always take your supplies to a professional, but you may end up spending more than you want this way.

6. Purchase Shoes
If you’re planning on going bowling more than once, then one of the best things you can do is buy your own pair of shoes. This can be an investment, but you’ll save more money in the long run. Not only will you be able to ditch the extra fee of renting a pair of shoes, but you’ll also have a cleaner experience. When you use bowling shoes, there’s always a chance you can develop a fungus, even when the shoes are properly kept clean. Of course, you’ll also be able to find shoes that fit your feet better, which will ensure you’ll easily be able to feel more comfortable while you bowl and it’ll be less likely to cause problems with your back and knees. You may not want to splurge on children’s bowling shoes though as they grow so fast that you’d have to actually go bowling frequently to get your money’s worth out of them.

7. Look for Freebies
In the bowling world, there’s actually a whole lot of freebies to be had. You simply have to go out and look for them! Often, you can find free nights to bowl, particularly in the down season. Sometimes, the bowling alley will even offer free food or drinks with the purchase of a night of bowling. This can help keep everyone nice and happy during the game. Also, there is actually a program that allows children to get free bowling games all summer long. This can truly help save you money while keeping the kids incredibly busy. If you’re at a loss for where to find the freebies call your local bowling alley, or browse online.

8. Skip the Snacks
When it comes down to it, it’s pretty hard to get children to avoid the snack bar. In fact, it can actually be pretty hard for adults too. However, the snack bar can really set you back when you shop from it. It doesn’t matter if you’re grabbing food or a few beers, the prices at the bowling alley tend to be overpriced, plus the stuff is not very good for your health either. One way to combat the cost of the snack bar is to use coupons to get your snacks. However, avoiding the snack bar is your best bet altogether. Make sure to eat before you go bowling so that the food won’t be appetizing. If you’re worried about drinks, then pack a reusable water bottle. Usually you can fill them up for free at the bowling alley, so you won’t have to worry about spending a penny there. A lot of bowling alleys won’t care if you pack snacks for the kids though. However, if you do, make sure they’re not messy.

9. Don’t Go Solo
One of the best things you can do when it comes to bowling is to go with your friends. If you go alone then you end up paying for a lane and all of the accessories on your own. Sure, this can be great if you want to get rid of some tension, but you may want to avoid doing this if you’re trying to save money. By going as a group, you’re automatically going to save money because you can share a lane, which is all one charge. If the alley charges per person, then you’ll still save money because you will still only use one lane to play. Not to mention, you can usually find groupons and other items to help combat the price, so you can have a little fun with your friends.

10. Set Up Your Own
Of course, one of the best ways to skip the prices of the bowling alley is to avoid it all together. You can easily set up an indoor or outdoor bowling alley atyour own home, so you won’t have to pay an entry fee. There’s a whole lot of fun ideas to choose from when it comes to your own personal alley too. If the weather is particularly hot, then you can always use a slip n slide to set up your alley. There’s a variety of things that you can use for pins, including water balloons. Once everything is set up then let the kids be their own bowling ball. If you’re looking for an indoor friendly set, then use household items as pins and soft items like a pair of rolled up socks or a foam ball as the bowling ball. You can also buy a bowling set for cheap, which should keep everyone happy.

Bowling is a fun family activity that’s great for most ages. Although this activity can be cheap for the most part, there’s still a few charges that may end up causing your finances a bit of grief. However, with these simple tips, you should be able to enjoy your favorite activity without as much financial stress.

Easter is a great time to get together with loved ones, while celebrating the beautiful weather and the warmth of the holiday. However, there’s a lot of expenditures when it comes to this holiday. You’ll probably end up spending a small fortune on Easter baskets for the kids as well as prepping for the Easter egg hunt. The Easter dinner is also one of the biggest expenditures. However, there are a few simple ways you can cut the budget of your Easter meal, so that you have more spending power for the other aspects of the holiday. These ten tips will help you figure out how to make the most out of what you have in your food budget, so the holiday won’t leave you hurting financially.

1. Shop Sales
Luckily, Easter is a holiday in which a lot of stores will offer some pretty awesome sales, so you won’t have to worry as much about over spending. Of course, you still make have to do a lot of research to figure out which sales are worth going to and which sales are going to leave you going over your budget. One of the biggest areas to look for sales is in the meat department, as this tends to be the entrée of the meal and more people will want to eat this portion of the meal. The best thing you can do is go into the store with an open mind. You can easily work up a menu around the sales, which may be easier than you think. If bulk items are on sale that you may need, then consider asking a friend or two to split the cost with you, so you can all end up saving money on items you need to whip up your holiday feast.

2. Keep it Seasonal
In this day and age, thinking seasonal isn’t always on our mind because we have access to all sorts of food throughout the year. However, the seasons do still affect the price of our foods, so remember to plan seasonally to suit your budget. Not to mention, seasonal foods are usually fresher, which is great for your family. Easter dinner ends to encompasses a big ham as the main entrée, but hams are more expensive in March. You may want to consider using lamb for your meal as it is actually the meat that’s usually in season during the spring months. There’s lots of tasty vegetables in season too though. Asparagus, for instance, will make a beautiful side dish that will also help detox the body and fill your guests up. Other than that, you can grab leeks, carrots, spinach, strawberries and walnuts at a fabulous price.

3. Skip Dessert
A lot of people really go all out when it comes to dessert at dinner parties. However, this portion of the meal can really run you a whole lot of money. The good news is; you don’t really need to have dessert for Easter dinner. Generally, this meal takes place after Easter baskets are passed out and after the kids hunt down all of the Easter eggs. So, chances are pretty high that there will be enough sugar to go around. If you really want to make a presentation for the adults though, you can put out all of the spare candy for them to choose from. You might also think about using the spare candy to whip up a dessert that won’t cost you a small fortune. Either way, if you skip purchasing items for this meal then you should save yourself quite a bit of money.

4. Reuse the Eggs
If your family likes to go the traditional route and color eggs, rather than using plastic eggs, then you probably have an abundance of eggs left over after the Easter egg hunt. Of course, you should probably count on a few of the eggs not making it past this point, as some always seem to get stepped on and others end up missing in action until they begin to smell. All the same, you may want to plan on a few dishes that already call for hard boiled eggs. One great example is using these eggs to create deviled eggs. They’re already cooked and ready to go, so you just have to peel them and prep them like you would normal deviled eggs. The beauty is, a lot of them will hold on to the coloring, so they’ll look more appealing to the children in your life. You might also want to consider a cobb salad, or simply offering the eggs as a part of the meal, because some people really enjoy them. Eggs you don’t end up using can always be put away for lunches and breakfasts throughout the week.

5. Plan for Leftovers
If you plan on cooking a meal without thinking twice about the price, then the best thing you can do is plan to have leftovers from the meal. Try to look for goods that will hold up a bit longer in the refrigerator, so you can keep the family fed for much longer. This can be tricky as some foods depend on the preparation you use, rather than the item itself. You may also want to choose to make dishes that you know can be frozen and enjoyed for another meal in the future. This will certainly help stretch out your grocery budget, so that the over-spending for the holiday won’t leave you with empty pockets. Your meat dish is probably one of the more important items when it comes to this. If you choose to have a ham, for instance, you can easily make ham hock and beans, sandwiches, omelets, soups and other dishes with the leftovers. Produce can be picked in the same way as you can add many different vegetables to eggs or soups for an exceptional meal that will suit the family’s needs.

6. Host a Potluck
One great thing about holiday feasts that bring in friends and family is the sheer fact that you don’t have to bear all of the weight if you don’t want to or can’t. This Easter, if you truly want to save money then host a potluck. When you send out invitations, try to have everyone phone in their RSVP, so you can discuss which dish they would like to make. Once you have everyone on board, simply plan your menu around what they’re brining. This usually opens up the main entrée for you to do, so you won’t have to worry about cooking when you want to bring the star of the meal to perfection. Hosting a potluck also allows you to open up a bit and try new things. Some people love to bring their family’s traditional meals to the table when invited to a potluck, so there’s sure to be amazing conversations to keep the day going smoothly. If you have guests who can’t bring in food, then ask for items like paper plates, paper towels or plastic utensils. These items are cheap and can be bought in bulk, so there will be plenty to go around.

7. Raid Your Pantry
A lot of the time, shopping for the holiday can be pretty overwhelming and people don’t have the clearest of minds when they go shopping. Thus, they make a list of their menu and start grabbing all of the items for it, which means spending a lot more money than they should have to. Before you wind up in the same situation, you should take inventory of what is already in your pantry, refrigerator and freezer. You may find you already have the makings for a fantastic meal, which should allow you to skip out on the majority of the shopping. If you stocked up on turkeys while they were cheap then this is another great option to make your food budget drop substantially. If your pantry is looking pretty awesome already then you may even be able to plan the entire menu without setting foot in the holiday crazed store.

8. Take to Couponing
You’ve probably heard a lot about couponing, in fact, there is even a TV show on the hobby now! So, you might want to use this holiday as a great excuse to pick up couponing. Of course, this doesn’t exactly mean you’re going to end up with the store returning money to you after a shopping adventure, because that usually takes some time and practice to achieve. You could, however, manage to find some extraordinary savings on your Easter meal though. Try looking around for tutorials to try to help you take your couponing skills to the next level. You should also star browsing around on your favorite coupon sites though and see if your local stores are putting out their own coupons. Before you know it, you won’t have to stress about the holiday food budget again.

9. Wine Alternatives
Like most holiday feasts, wine tends to play a huge role in the beverages offered to adults. With Easter, it can also be used as a religious gesture. Thus, you may be scrambling to find some cheap wine that suits your budget, but doesn’t taste like feet. However, unless you find an awesome deal on boxed wine, you’re probably not going to get enough wine to suit your table without spending a pretty penny. Luckily, there’s a whole lot of other beverages you can serve that look like wine and still taste pretty fabulous. Juice is one great option and will make the environment more family friendly. You may also consider simply serving water, which will help avoid major stains from spills. Of course, if your recipes call for wine, then have no fear here either. There’s lots of alternatives that will help you keep the same flavor profile without the extra money, so you can feel great about what you serve your loved ones.

10. Centerpiece
Easter is another holiday that most people want the dining table to look elegant and festive for. Often, this means spending a small fortune on a centerpiece or two to liven up the look. You don’t really need to do this for Easter if you’re looking to make a festive impression. One simple way to end the centerpiece blues is to place an Easter basket on the table. With all of the colorful eggs displayed with pride, you’ll have a style that will warm everyone’s hearts. If you want the holiday to be a little less kid friendly, then place a series of seasonal fruits on the table. This will look fantastic and your guests can eat them for dessert, so you’ll be killing two birds with one stone.

Easter dinner is a time for celebration and bonding, so don’t let the price tag take away from the fabulous experience. These ten tips should allow you to cut the cost of your holiday spending, so you can get back to the real meaning of the season. So, don’t cut corners this year just to ensure your family love your meal, instead incorporate a few of these tips to keep the price low and the quality high.

Things are beginning to look a lot less like winter and a lot more like Spring thanks to the arrival of March. This month is rather busy this year though, with a few holidays that may force you to go beyond your budget to have a bit of fun. This month is also filled with lots of great savings though, which may make the month a lot more exciting for the entire household. With these ten savings categories, you may find that your budget can stretch even further as you find the perfect opportunities to purchase common goods as well as future gifts for upcoming holidays. So, breathe in the fresh spring air and let the month of March lift your spirits while making your budget celebrate.

1. Chocolate
Valentine’s Day has already come and gone, which means you should be able to raid a few of the clearance shelves in your local department or grocery store. Generally, stores will significantly reduce the price of their holiday specific candy, which will allow you to enjoy your favorite sweet treats without as much guilt. Of course, if you’re looking for luxurious chocolates or even fruits covered in chocolate then you might want to log in to some of your favorite gift websites. These sites will be filled with leftover holiday chocolate that will pretty much make you want to shop until you drop. March hosts St. Patrick’s day too, which isn’t really known for candy, but you should still be able to get some great deals on chocolate gold pieces. These can be used later for Hanukah or even fun games over the summer. Finally, Easter is in March this year, which means you’ll have a wide selection of clearance Easter candy to enjoy after the big day. This will offer you great options, including solid chocolate bunnies that could last for months.

2. China/Silverware
If you’ve been looking to start your own China collection or you’d simply like some items for fine dining, then now is the perfect time to buy China or silverware. Generally, these items are at high price because they tend to be in demand throughout the year. However, March is a great in-between month because the major gift giving holidays are over and the wedding season hasn’t quite started. Of course, when shopping for China and silverware, you should always make sure you know what you’re getting and if you’re actually getting the items at a sales price, opposed to the seller simply stating it’s on sale. Quick research should answer your question without a problem. If you find a good enough deal then you may want to buy in bulk for future wedding gifts or even to place in your child’s hope chest, so they will start their future off on the right foot.

3. Plants
With all of the greenery blossoming and the beautiful weather, you may find that you have plants on the mind. Luckily, this is the perfect month to go ahead and buy these items. In many areas, it’s still a little cold to start on the gardening tasks, so plants should be on sale. Luckily, most stores will just be beginning to stock them too, so you should get the top picks of their supply. You can keep your plants safe in your garden by covering them in plastic during the night to avoid freezing, or you can even leave them in the garage for a few weeks while the weather warms up. Just make sure to follow basic care instructions, no matter what you choose to do. You may want to avoid buying items like bulbs and other seeds right now though, unless you have a place to pre-plant them. Items like roses, trees and shrubs should be great though.

4. Holiday Decor
March sees two holidays this month, so there’s no doubt your budget may be a little tight if you plan on going all out on both of them. However, if you’re okay with using old decor then you may save a bundle by shopping the day after each holiday. This year, St. Patrick’s Day falls on March 17, which means on the 18th most stores will have moved the holiday decor to the clearance section. You should be able to get unbelievably great prices on this decor too, since it normally doesn’t live up to the hype of other holidays. You should also check out dollar stores to get more for your money there. Easter can be an entirely different story as many people love to celebrate by decorating with religious items or even cute bunnies and chicks. This year the holiday takes place on March 27, so you have a full ten days to recover from the previous holidays. However, on the 28th you should find amazing sells on your favorite decor items that can also dual for other holidays. So, make sure you don’t go mad prior to the holiday if you want to really show off your decorating skills next year.

5. Frozen Food
March is actually National Frozen Food Month, which is good news for everyone who loves to peruse the frozen food section in their favorite store. If you have a large freezer then now may be the time to stock up on your favorite produce, so you’ll be prepared to whip up a wide assortment of meals for quite some time. If you want to maximize your shopping here, look for out for seasonal produce so you can enjoy your favorite foods all year without worrying about the price. This is also a great time to load up on frozen fruit for tasty smoothies that will help you get through the upcoming heat waves. Apart from these foods, you should also be able to grab easy meals like pizzas, TV dinners and snacks that will make your grocery bill a lot less when you have to feed the kids over the summer break. If you shop wisely, you should be able to cut down on your future grocery bills for some time, which will be great for your vacation fund!

6. Luggage
Spring Break should be happening sometime this month or next month, which means luggage is going to be going on sale. While most people are busy having the time of their life during Spring Break, you can easily find the perfect deal on the luggage you’ll need to travel in style over the summer time. You should be able to find all sorts of luggage on sale, even if you have special needs. For instance, water protection or hard shell cases should be just as easily found in the month of March for those who aren’t keen on fabric bags. If you love to shop vintage shops, then you should also be able to find great deals on these items too, because most people want to clear their stock. Make sure you shop sometime soon though because when summer nears luggage will become more expensive, which means you’ll have less money for vacation fun.

7. Home Fragrances
Spring clean is huge this season, but people also love to keep their house smelling nice and fresh too. For this reason, most stores will have some pretty awesome deals on home fragrances, which will allow you to make your spring cleaning go even further. The good news is, home fragrances can come in all shapes and sizes too, so you can stock up on a good number of items to help make your home smell good all season. If you don’t like to run the air conditioner much during the summer then you might want to stick to spray fragrances, so you don’t have to worry about candles or oils heating up the home. If you tend to smoke inside the home or you like to cleanse the air the incense is another great option that should be on sale too. Other than that, candles, oils and accessories, should make your home smell better for less throughout the rest of the year.

8. Golf Clubs
Technically, golf isn’t in season yet, but it will be soon. Thus, now is a great time to go ahead and grab new golf clubs. The weather will be nice enough to get in some early games, but you won’t have to worry about starting out a competition with a set of new clubs that you aren’t accustomed to. Plus, a lot of sports stores will be getting rid of their older models to make room for this season’s new and improved additions, which means you may end up saving up to 60% or more on your new golf clubs. Of course, this is also the perfect time to shop around for a Father’s Day gift or birthday gifts if someone in your life is a huge golf fan. You should make sure you know what you’re shopping for before you take the plunge though.

9. Craft Supplies
If you love to craft then you might know that March is National Craft Month, which is pretty exciting for anyone that loves to get the creative juices flowing. This month you should see a wide assortment of sales on all of your favorite craft supplies at department stores, art stores and even online. You may also be able to dig up some pretty awesome coupons that will help you save even more on your crafting supplies. Of course, these sales may only be on handicrafts like painting, scrapbooking, fabrics and yarns, so don’t be disappointed if you go to look for items for photography and end up empty handed. This may be the perfect time to try out a new craft though, especially if you’ve been considering something for some time. It may also be a good time to stock up on crayons, colored pencils and other common school supplies, so you’ll be ready for next year. Apart from buying crafts, you may want to see if there are any competitions that might earn you some money or free supplies.

10. Digital Cameras
Although this item won’t be covered for National Craft Month, you should be able to find some pretty awesome deals on digital cameras this month. Apart from Spring Break, there’s really not a whole lot going on for travelers, nor is there a bunch of special events or holidays coming up. Thus, digital camera sales tend to drop a bit, so that stores can actually make some sales. Apart from that, newer models will be coming out too, which means a lot of locations will want to clear their shelves, thus offering better sales prices. You should also be able to find some great prices on accessories too. However, make sure you check out reviews before you buy your camera and shop around to make sure you’re not going to end up with a deal that won’t save you a whole lot. You should also consider a warranty on your items too, just in case you run into a problem.

March is filled with all sorts of fun and beauty, so try to enjoy your month as much as you can! With these ten shopping suggestions, you should be able to save quite a bit of money during this month, which may even further your savings in the upcoming months. Now, you’ll have even more reason to love the great transformation that March springs to the world!

St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday that allows everyone around the world to celebrate the Irish, Saint Patrick and good ole fashioned shenanigans. Of course, since St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Thursday, you may end up spending most of the holiday trapped indoors. This can be a bit tough, especially if you work in an office with strict polices that won’t allow you to come to work dressed as a leprechaun. If you’re worried about missing out on all of the green fun, you’re in luck. Here’s ten simple ways to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day this year at the office without forcing you to blow your budget. Now, you can share your Irish roots, or simply your love for holidays, with all of your co-workers, which could make the holiday even better.

1. Paint Your Nails
If your employer is banning you from wearing green this holiday, or you simply don’t have any business attire that will suit your green needs, then painting your nails is a pretty awesome way to get your holiday fix. Green nail polish won’t cost you a pretty penny to begin with and if you don’t want to get too elaborate then you can have a green friendly look in a matter of seconds. Of course, if you love to add some pizzazz to your nails then you can easily print out a simple four leaf clover stencil and use it to create a festive design on your nails. There’s lots of ideas online if you’re in need of inspiration. Another simple option is to add green or gold rhinestones or stickers to your nails. This will add a temporary look that is sure to please. If you’re not as worried about your budget, then you can head to your favorite nail salon and let them work their magic!

2. Pass Out Clovers
One amazing way to celebrate when you can’t wear green or bring in holiday inspired cupcakes is to pass out clovers. These clovers are said to bring luck to you, which will allow you to celebrate the luck of the Irish without forcing you to spend money on other clever ways to celebrate. You can probably get a variety of clovers from stores nearby, but if you really want to save some money then bring your crafting skills to the table. There’s lots of great online tutorials you can choose from and none of them should force you to spend a small fortune. When you’ve worked your magic on your clovers then display them on your desk, pin one to your clothes and give them to your favorite colleagues. You’ll love the spirit they bring to the office, even when the company isn’t celebrating.

3. Pack a Lunch
A great way to bring more of the holiday to your day when you’re trapped at work is to pack a special St. Patrick’s Day lunch. You can choose from a wide assortment of items too, which will suit your diet as well. A healthier option is to bring a green smoothie, which will power you through the day while helping cleanse your body of toxins. Green cupcakes are another great idea if you’re looking to suit your green requirement. Of course, you could also keep it traditional by bringing something Irish to the mix. For starters, you can try out a corn beefed sandwich, which is sure to bring out your roots. There’s lot of recipes online though if you’re not keen on corn beef or not quite certain what to make to suit your Irish needs. You may even be able to try something new, which will stun all of your colleagues.

4. Host a Party
Even if there haven’t been any rumors of a party, doesn’t necessarily mean you’re not allowed to have one. Ask your boss if you can set up a little get-together in the break room over lunch time. If he or she says no then it’s no harm done, and if they say yes then you’re set up for lots of fun. Of course, you could always invite people back for a little fun at your house when the work day is over. Either way you go, there’s some quick frugal ways to make the party a blast without forcing you to shell out a lot of money. For instance, you can ask everyone to bring in a traditional Irish dish or something green to help create a potluck that everyone will remember. Cheap décor can be found at most dollar stores or you can look up a few DIY items that won’t take up a lot of time. As far as games are concerned, try to come up with a Celtic version of charades or host an Irish history trivia game. You may also be able to find quite a few party ideas online too. If you want to give out prizes, then think chocolate gold coins or clovers.

5. Decorate Your Desk/Cubicle
If you’re worried about the holiday coming and going without any representation, then try to spice it up by decorating your desk or your cubicle. You can easily transform your pen holder into a pot of gold using basic crafting supplies, which may add a fun twist to your work schedule too. If you often get kids in your office, then add a few chocolate gold coins to keep them happy while they wait. Leprechauns also make a great touch! You can easily print and color some out to hang up or buy a few for a low price. Window or wall decals will also add a great look to the room and will do no damage when you hang and remove them. Apart from that, you can put your DIY skills to work by making your own holiday inspired garland, clovers or whatever else floats your boat. If you’re not in the mood for crafting then you should be able to find incredibly cheap décor at your local dollar store or department store, just make sure to shop around for the best bargain.

6. Grab a Playlist
When it comes to celebrating, nothing says fun like some Irish music, both old and new. If your boss is totally against parties, dressing up and décor, then browse around for a playlist to get you through the long non-celebratory day. If you’re already a fan of Irish music, then take to your own collection to create the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day celebration playlist and bring it to work with a pair of good headphones or earbuds. Of course, if you’re not really sure where to start then take to your favorite streaming program. You can probably find St. Patrick’s Day lists if you don’t have a preference for genre. However, if you want to use the holiday to explore your musical taste then be more specific in your search. You can find everything from folk songs, instrumentals, rap, punk, alternative and even pop. You may even find something you’ll want to enjoy throughout the year.

7. Discover a New Restaurant
Pigging out on Celtic cuisine can be a pretty awesome way to celebrate, especially if you get a fair lunch break at work. Try browsing around your local area to see if there is an Irish pub or other restaurant that likes to serve up Irish food. You may end up finding a place that serves Irish influenced food, but it’s still better than the same old PB&J, right? Make sure you look around for deals too, as this is a prime time for restaurants to serve up a signature dish or to offer a great sale on their food. Another smart thing to do is look for Groupons, so you and a few of your colleagues can save some money by trying a new dish together.

8. Pass Out Cards
Another way to celebrate the occasion without putting too much money into it, or over-stepping your boundaries at the work place is to pass out cards. You can find a whole bunch of templates online to print out if you’re interested in taking a cheaper route. Of course, you can dedicate a bit more time to them and make them entirely from scratch. It’s not hard to show off clovers, leprechauns, rainbows and pots of gold, so you could even enlist the whole family to make the cards even more special. If you don’t really have the time to go the DIY route, then you can always pick up cards in bulk. You may have to order them online, as St. Patrick’s Day cards aren’t as popular as other holidays, but it’ll be worth it when you bring some cheer to the office on your favorite holiday. You may even get lucky and avoid pinches due to your kindness.

9. Browse Parades
One frustrating thing about being trapped inside during such a fun holiday is missing out on the parades, especially if your city hosts one. You’re in luck though! Thanks to the internet, you can watch parades from all over the place, which should help brighten your day. A lot of cities will post live footage of their parades and will also add the event to their website after it’s over. So, you can browse it during your breaks or share some of the love with your fellow colleagues. You can even skip over the boring stuff you’re not interested in. This year, you may even find a city that creates a parade better than you would have ever expected. So, start book marking the websites of your favorite cities now!

10. Grab A Drink After Work
Part of St. Patrick’s Day has a whole lot to do with drinking, which isn’t exactly work friendly. However, you can always gather up a group to grab a drink with you after you finish up your day. Most bars will have a special on their drinks, particularly green beers or other Irish inspired concoctions, so you may be able to save a bit of money on your special occasion. However, keep the drinks to a minimum or your tab may go up substantially without you realizing it. You should also call around to see if anyone is offering special prices, foods or even a Happy Hour to celebrate the occasion. With a little luck of the Irish, you’ll find the perfect place to end the professional day and start up your Irish celebration.

St. Patrick’s Day can be a lot of fun, but if you’re trapped in a workplace that doesn’t let you celebrate then you may have to find a few tricky ways to get your celebration in. These ten tips should help you find a few frugal ways to enjoy a few aspects of the holiday, so you can feel like the special occasion didn’t just pass you by!

Kitchens are a great place to spend time in the home, so it’s no wonder why people are so willing to pour money into them in order to make them suit their needs as well as their personalities. Of course, overtime, kitchens can grow bland and the renovation bug begins to kick in. If you don’t have a budget to support these urges, then you may find yourself hating your kitchen more and more. Luckily, there’s several DIY tricks you can try out that will allow you to create a whole new look for your kitchen without spending too much money. Before you know it, your kitchen will have a fresh look that will make you want to stay in more, which will help save even more money.

1. Switch Out the Handles
You may be surprised as to how much of a difference switching out the handles and pulls in your kitchen can make. If you have basic handles on your cabinets and drawers now, then you’ll certainly be in for a real treat when it comes to your new handles. Luckily, you can easily find a great supply of these at any home improvement or department store. They range in prices too, so you won’t have to spend an arm and a leg if you can’t fit it into your budget. Of course, new isn’t your only option here. You can easily head to a local thrift store, flea market or yard sale to see if you can find anything that strikes your fancy. There may even be online stores that sell used items. In fact, if you’re out of luck when it comes to shopping, you might want to consider refurbishing some from an old piece of furniture that you’re no longer using.

2. Hang Things Up
The beauty of the kitchen is there are so many items that can be used as decoration. One of the best things you can do is hang up your pots and pans. First of all, they will look outstanding, especially if you’re going for a quaint or even quirky vibe. Second of all, this will free up so much space in your cabinets that you might not know what to do with yourself. There’s lots of other items that can be hung up too. For instance, if you’re particularly proud of your mug collection then these items look incredible hanging from the wall. Apart from that you may want to try oven mitts, measuring spoons, spices and anything else that you think would look incredible. This will prevent you from shopping around for artwork you’re going to grow bored of and will add a livable style to your functional kitchen.

3. Redo Your Backsplash
The backsplash of your kitchen probably doesn’t get a whole lot of attention. In fact, you may have kept it exactly the same as it was the day you moved into your place. However, by redoing the backsplash, you can easily skip painting the entire room, redoing your countertops and other expensive changes. The backsplash is easily changed too, so you won’t have to hire someone to come in and fix it up. One easily solution to change it is to grab some tiles that you enjoy and apply them to the area. You can even get a little crazy here by taking broken tiles and transforming them into a lovely mosaic that will make the area the focal point of the kitchen. Apart from tiles, grafting paper and wallpaper is another fantastic option, which will save you a whole lot of time on your mini-renovation. Wallpaper and grafting paper can be incredibly cheap too, especially since you don’t need a whole lot to make this area shine. When you finish up with the job, you’ll find your kitchen will look like new.

4. Add Fresh Paint
Nothing beats the look of a freshly painted room though. So, if you really want to get the fresh look you’ve been longing to see in your kitchen then you may want to consider painting the room. If you’re really looking to save money, then choose a similar color or the same color simply to add the fresh look that will make the room look like a million bucks. Another thing to keep in mind is the type of colors you use. If you’re in a particularly small kitchen, then you might want to work with colors that will make the room look larger and more efficient. Of course, many people also love creating a warm atmosphere though, so you might want to stick with colors that make you feel comfortable or have a spicy style. You should also keep in mind the direction in which your home faces. Kitchens tend to be warmer anyway, but if you paint your home a dark color then it is more than likely going to be a sauna if it faces the sun during prime cooking hours.

5. Swap Rugs
You may be surprised by how much work a rug does for your home. If you’ve had the same rug in your kitchen for some time, then try taking it out of your kitchen for a bit. This in itself could help you feel that your kitchen is a lot different. Of course, you don’t have to go without a rug though. You might want to try to swap it for a rug from another room in the house. If this doesn’t work, then shop around for a clearance rug or check out local yard sales and thrift stores to see if something strikes your fancy. You may even want to check out DIY rug tutorials to see if you can come up with something cool with your dish towels or other fabrics. Before you know it, this easy swap will bring a whole new life to the kitchen and will help satisfy the renovation bug.

6. Stain Cabinets
If you hate your cabinets and counter tops, then you could be looking at paying a small fortune in your kitchen renovation. However, there’s a quick and easy solution that could lead you to a lovely look without all of the hard work and money spent. That is, simply staining your cabinets. Wooden cabinets are great in the sense that you can change them up to suit your preferences, unless they are not too dark to begin with. Wood stains won’t cost you a small fortune either and you won’t need a whole lot to get the job done, which is even better. Of course, you may want to look at some staining tutorials before you get started though, just so you can do the best job possible while you work on your cabinets. Before staining, you should put down something to protect the floor and tape around the area to make sure stain doesn’t end up on your countertops. Last but not least, you might want to consider wearing gloves, because stain can totally transform the color of your hands for some time.

7. Go Fashion Savvy
These days, it seems like stainless steel is out and warm bronze colors are in. This doesn’t mean you need to go out and buy all new gadgets and appliances though. Going from stainless steel to bronze is actually pretty simple and won’t cost you a pretty penny either. All you need is a bit of bronzer and something to practice on. Once you’ve worked with the bronzer of your choice, you can apply it to your appliances, faucets and anything else you’d like to add a warm burst to. Make sure you choose the right color for you though as some bronzers will create a rustic look, while others will create the popular sunburst look. When you’re finished with your project, the room will feel like you replaced everything, but your budget will still be right on point.

8. Add Lighting
You can really transform a room simply by adding more lighting to the area. One of the best forms of lighting you can add to a kitchen is under the counter lighting. It adds a sleek and sophisticated look to the room, and it will help you with your cooking preparations. If you have a lot of money to spend then you can go through the grueling process of wiring the lights into the cabinet and so on, but the simple solution is to buy a few tap lights, which are incredibly affordable, and stick them beneath the cabinets. Of course, the lighting you’ll actually be able to see can make a huge difference too. You can easily mix things up by making your own lights using old wine bottles or other recycling. This is a fun craft and will add a touch of rustic charm to the kitchen. The best thing is, you can customize the light to meet your color scheme, by choosing the right color of glass. If crafting isn’t your thing, then it might be good to look in thrift stores for vintage lights or discount home improvement stores to see if there’s a light covering or fixture that suits your needs.

9. Cabinet Doors
If you’re no longer in love with your cabinets, then one easy fix is to take off the doors. Open cabinets help create the illusion of more space, which will make your home feel a lot more comfortable. Plus, being able to see all of your lovely plates, bowls and other kitchen essentials will add a touch of charm that will make the kitchen seem even warmer and more inviting. Not to mention, with the cabinets open, it might keep you motivated to keep things organized and looking good. If you’re not a fan of open cabinet doors, then you may want to consider adding decorative mirrors to each one. This will also add the illusion of more space, while giving the cabinets an edgy look that will have your guests mesmerized.

10. Dress Up Windows
Kitchen windows are great, because you don’t always have to keep them shut for your privacy, which means they can easily become a focal point. Thus, you can easily mix things up in the kitchen by adding a new set of curtains or a simple valance to the window to make it a focal point in the room. This will also allow you to let in lots of light, which will help create a great atmosphere during the daylight hours. If you’re not into curtains, then you can simply paint some designs around the window to frame it and make it seem like part of the décor of the room. If you have more of a country or rustic style, then you might want to look around for shutters to go on the inside of the window. Another simple and cheap option is to paint designs on the glass portion of the window to create a fun look or use decals.

Adding a bit of life to your kitchen doesn’t mean you have to hire a professional or throw in a lot of money into the project. These ten simple tips won’t take you long to accomplish and will have you enjoying your kitchen without forcing you to part with your hard earned money. Plus, the cool new look will have everything to do with your style and creative side, which will make showing off your new kitchen even more fun.

These days, Amazon is a huge player in the online market and they’re even starting to open up brick and mortar stores in the United States. With services like free shipping, scheduled orders and a wide selection, a lot of customers have turned to the website as their go to choice when it comes to shopping for just about anything and everything. Of course, the real question is: Does Amazon really save you the money that you think it does? There’s a few answers to this questions because you have to look at different aspects of the site. Here’s ten sections that will help guide you to decide whether or not you should shop with Amazon when it comes to a few popular items.

1. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime is one of the main draws of the website for some shoppers. For less than $100 a year you get access to free two-day shipping, exclusive coupons and sales, streaming videos and music, as well as a free book a month. The 2-day shipping itself will help save you up to $6 a purchase and, if you’re in no hurry, you can opt out of the free 2-day shipping for free standard shipping if you’d like to receive a discount on a movie rental and music or e-book downloads. Apart from the free videos you can stream, you can also enjoy commercial free music too, which would normally cost around $9 a month. The coupons that Prime members get access to will help save you a bundle, especially if you’re shopping in the home department. Often, the coupons will apply directly to purchases, so you won’t even have to browse through the numerous coupons that appear on the website each day. If you’re still not sold on the $100 price tag, Amazon offers sales throughout the year so you can purchase it at a lower price. Students will also get a discount on their membership and you can share your services with up to 4 people.

2. Streaming Videos
If you’re already paying for a streaming service, then there’s a good chance you’re paying around $8 to $15 for the service, which ends up being about $94 to $180 a year. For the same price as the basic streaming services, you’ll get access to a wide variety of streaming movies and shows that could keep you entertained for hours on end. Plus, you can pre-order, rent and digitally purchase seasons of your favorite shows as well as blockbuster movies. In comparison to other services, like GooglePlay and iTunes, the rentals cost about the same amount of money, but if you’re not in a hurry to watch your rental, you can leave it for up to 30 days before finally viewing it, if you so please. Of course, rentals and purchases aren’t just for Prime members, anyone with an account can enjoy this service.

3. Ebooks
Electronic books are a huge trend, especially in the world of self-publishing. Although most online book stores will offer digital books as a purchasing option, they probably don’t have near the selection of Amazon as it is known for hosting self-published novels by the thousands. This gives you a wide assortment of options to choose from and, you never know, you could be reading something from the next big someone in the book world. If you’re not into independent books, regular e-books are also at a competitive price. Sometimes, Amazon will even keep track of purchases and offer you coupons for authors you love. You may even be able to find some extraordinary pre-ordering prices. Amazon Prime subscribers don’t just get to check out this wide selection, but they can rent a free book a month and loan out and borrow books from people in their network. Recently, Amazon even offered Kindle Unlimited, which allows you to check out as many books as you want for a monthly fee.

4. Household Goods
Amazon is a great place to buy household goods, especially if you prefer to shop for items in bulk. Often, you can find some of your favorite brands on the website for less than you would your local store, which is helpful if you’re on a tight budget. Household goods are one of the more popular items Amazon likes to produce coupons for too, which is also a bonus. One of the latest features for Amazon is the subscription purchase, which generally takes away a percentage of an item. The only catch is you have to sign up for a monthly or bi-monthly subscription of these services. Of course, you can cancel the subscriptions when you want, but if you like the convenience of the service then you may end up spending way too much money. Generally, when you shop you get the chance to price check items, with this service you won’t get to as it will automatically ship to you after each time period passes.

5. Technology
One of the more popular searches on Amazon is technology, because they are always said to have good deals. Plus, the selection is so much better than a lot of other stores. You can find anything from basic accessories to top of the line gaming computers on Amazon, but you may be surprised to hear that you’re not always going to get the price when you shop with Amazon. In fact, when searching for laptops, phones and many other items, there were cheaper prices at stores like Amazon and Target. For instance, a quick search for an RCA 58 inch LED TV, led to WalMart hosting a better price at $499 opposed to Amazon’s $574.98. It isn’t just TVs that didn’t make the cut during a basic search though. Walmart again took the cake with a Toshiba Jetback Laptop for $249, while Amazon sells the same laptop for $374. Keep in mind, both Amazon and WalMart offer free shipping on these items, so you’re not losing money there. So, unless there’s a major sell going on, you may want to skip out on the tech section of Amazon.

6. Clothes and Shoes
When it comes to shopping online, clothing and shoes are some of the hardest things to buy. Sure, you can find a wide assortment of items you’d love to wear, but in reality finding the perfect fit without seeing it in person and trying it on can be next to impossible. Worse yet, Amazon’s return policies aren’t always the best. In fact, you can’t even open the package of clothing if you plan on returning it, which pretty much means you’re going to lose out on money even if you do return the item. The price of the clothing isn’t always the best either, but sometimes you can find a great sale. For instance, while looking for a pair of Levi’s on JCPenny.com the site shows off the popular Levi 505’s for $59.50, with the option of 20% off for a current sale, while Amazon’s 505’s were priced at $42.99 with a 28% off sale. You should also keep in mind that if you hold memberships to websites like JC Penny’s that you may be privy to a greater discount, due to membership rewards. Plus, if the clothing doesn’t fit then you can return it to the physical store, rather than paying for return shipping.

7. Baby Stuff
Mom’s know the struggle that shopping for baby things brings, especially if you have to take the baby with you. Between diapers, clothes, toys and furniture, the shopping may seem to never end, which is why so many parents turn to online shopping. Luckily, Amazon does have some great offers here. If you have a baby in the home, then Amazon will actually offer you a discounted membership on a service that is basically Amazon Prime. You’ll still get the free 2-day shipping, the videos and music and all of that, but you’ll also get 20% off diapers and wipes each month. If you’re not interested in shopping with Amazon Mom, then you still may find better deals on diapers with Amazon. For instance, Amazon’s 216 Pack of Pamper Swaddlers cost $43.69, with a $1.50 coupon instantly popping up, while the same pack from Target cost $45.99. Apart from the basics, you can probably find a mixed amount of deals on furniture and toys on Amazon. It’s generally best to shop around for these items before you decide on where to buy them from.

8. Price Guarantee
A lot of stores offer price matching, so if you’re in the market to save a lot then you might want to go this route, rather than shopping online. However, if you’re not into that then you may want to simply keep an eye on the items you’ve already purchased. Amazon likes to keep your best interest in mind, so if you make a purchase with them, keep an eye on the price for a full 7 days after the item has shipped. If the price drops then you can contact Amazon and get a refund for the extra amount that you paid. Of course, you probably won’t end up saving much, but every little bit counts sometimes.

9. Flash Sales
Amazon is known for offering Flash Sales. Although they are more common during the holidays, you can still find a wide assortment of items on the flash sales every single day. The only problem is; the item might not be something you’d actually want to purchase on your own. For instance, if you don’t have a use for a chef hat, but you see one at a daringly low price you might be tempted to go for it. After all, you may one day need one, right? This is where the flash sale can really leave you in a financial bind, so if you have a hard time saying no then you might want to avoid them. Sometimes there are great deals though, especially on Tupperware or other household goods. The only problem is, you have to be fast before the item sells out, which means you don’t get a chance to shop around. Apart from the everyday sales, Amazon also hosts major sales like Prime Day, which is said to have more sales than Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Again, some of these items might save you money, but exercise caution here or else you’ll spend more than you should on items you might not need.

10. Variety
Of course, one of the biggest draws for Amazon is that you can find just about everything and the kitchen sink, literally, on the website. This is great for people who live in areas that might not have stores for geeky items, special spices and other rare products. Take for instance, those who love Indian food. A lot of stores fail to sell some of the basic spices, or charge an arm and a leg for them. Amazon allows you to buy these items at better prices from a variety of shops, which will save you money. Apart from shopping for exotic items, you may also find specialty things that will make your home seem even more you. This could also lead to spending too much money though, so make sure you keep up with spending to ensure you’re not going overboard on the cool stuff.

When it comes down to it, Amazon can save you money or make you pay more than you realize. So, when you’re shopping just exercise caution and don’t forget to shop around before adding something to your cart. Between the convenience of the online store and the prices, you should be fine shopping with Amazon as long as you are aware of your shopping restrictions.

Dinner parties are a great way to keep your friends and family close, butter up your boss for a promotion, or simply show off your amazing hosting skills. The art of the dinner party goes way back and has helped people socialize and have fun for generations. The only problem is; dinner parties can really be a bit of a drain on the budget. Between food and entertainment, you may find that your dinner party could lead you to rearrange your entire budget just to fit it in the party’s expenditures. These simple tips should guide you through the appetizers to the night cap, so you can enjoy your guests without stressing over the money.

1. Light Starters
There’s no law saying you have to create gourmet appetizers for your guests. In fact, your starters should be light and not as filling as you think. One of the best option is a nice soup. You can stick with seasonal ingredients to keep the price down. Vegetable soups are also a great way to work with your budget as they will stretch further while costing less to make. Salads are a pretty common option too. However, if you choose to go down this route then you may want to consider not buying premade salads. It’s much cheaper to buy the ingredients and do the work yourself, especially if you’re feeding a lot of people. Of course, there are plenty lighter and inexpensive appetizers to choose from if you’re not interesting in soup or salads. Bruschetta is one of your best options and tends to be enjoyed by all sorts of taste pallets. If you’re shy on ideas though, take to the internet, you should be able to find some outstanding recipes that will cost you next to nothing.

2. Cheap Themes
When you choose what to serve for your meal try not to pick foods that might cost you a lot of money. For instance, ethnic foods can be very costly because they often require special ingredients that are hard to find. Even if you do have stores that market to that type of food, the budget still may run you into the ground if you’re not familiar with preparing the dish. Thus, it might be easier to stick with something simple. Italian food can be very easy, especially if you keep with a pasta dish and affordable sauce. Another simple option is to choose a meat, like pot roast, that can go a long way. Of course, cheaper meats like chicken may help you meet your budgeting requirements too. Meals that call for cheaper starches like rice and beans are also a great option. Finally, if you really want to keep it cheap then you may want to stick with something like an omelet.

3. Beverages
A lot of guests will probably expect a cocktail hour if you’re planning a proper dinner party. Although serving no alcohol at all will save you the most money, it might be hard to avoid. If you stick to some basic drinks you can get away with using less alcohol, which will save you money. Of course, you don’t have to buy the finest alcohol out there either, stick to mixing drinks with cheaper alcohol and you should save more money. If you’re planning on having wine for a large group, then boxed wine is probably your safest option. You can always fill old bottles with this wine to make it look more luxurious. Of course, if you can avoid wine altogether then you might prefer to try out infused water with cheaper ingredients like lemons or cucumbers. It will be refreshing and a nice touch to each dish.

4. Desserts
When it comes to desserts, you don’t have to spend forever trying to whip up the perfect thing. You can keep it easy with a scoop of ice cream to add the perfect amount of sweetness while cleansing the pallet. If ice cream is on the pricey side then you can always try to make it homemade. Mini desserts are another fantastic option for dinner parties. They’re simplistic while not being overwhelming, which is a plus. They also won’t steal the show from the main course. Of course, you won’t have to go overboard with a dessert either. You can simply serve a thin mint. You may want to consider serving coffee during your dessert hour, especially if you served alcohol during the evening. This will help keep your guests sober, so they won’t have to worry about finding a way to get home.

5. Know Your Place Settings
One of the most important aspects of a dinner party is the setup. If you do it right, you’ll end up with a flawless display that will make your guests feel like you hired a professional. However, if you do it wrong, your place setting could look like a hot mess.Setting the table used to be a part of a standard curriculum, but it isn’t as commonly taught anymore unless you take special courses. Luckily, you can find the information online which is sure to guide you through just about any place setting you need. The best thing about knowing how to properly set a table is that you won’t have to spend a small fortune on center pieces or other décor. This will allow you to make more of your table with a loss less effort and money.

6. DIY Center Piece
Of course, if you do want to go all out for your table then you might want to consider making your own center piece. This will allow you to put some of your own creative energy into the table décor without forcing you to spend a small fortune. You can do a whole lot with your own centerpiece. For instance, you can use basic flower arranging techniques to create the perfect style for you. When you do choose flowers for this craft, you should be very careful to find the perfect flower by choosing one with a very subtle odor. Flowers that are pungent often work against the food you serve, which could make your dinner party a bust. You can also use older items that you find around the house to satisfy your décor needs. Old decorative items can be spray painted gold for a more luxurious feeling, for instance. If you’re short on ideas, there’s lot of great options online, so you may want to browse around on Pintrest or your other favorite home improvement websites.

7. Consider Lighting
One of the strongest components to your dinner party is the lighting, but you don’t have to worry about it being fancy here. If you already have control over your lighting them keep it dim and comfortable to promote a more intimate environment. This will help cut down on your power bill too, so you’ll be killing two birds with one stone. Another great way to create the perfect mood is to add candles to the table. This can also double as decoration on the table, so you’ll look fancier with less effort. You don’t have to spend a fortune on candles either. You should be able to find an assortment of cheap candles in department stores and general stores or you can even use simple tea lights. Of course if your meal is outside then consider eating by a bonfire or lighting torches that will help keep the bugs away too.

8. Keep it Renewable
Often, when it comes to dinner parties, people want to make clean up as easy as possible. This not only makes the quality of the table go down substantially, but it also will cost you and the environment quite a bit. You should always use proper plates, bowls and eating utensils when you have a dinner party. It helps create a refined look that is sure to knock your guests socks off. Utensils and plates aren’t the only thing you should be concerned about though when it comes to your party. Napkins are another big deal. For instance, if you end up using paper napkins you’ll waste a lot of money and you’ll be doing a major disservice to the planet. Plus, they will stand out like a sore thumb on your, otherwise, elegant table. Your best option is to find a set of low cost paper napkins for your party. For these, all you have to do is toss them in the washer and they’ll be ready to use for your next amazing dinner party.

9. Music
It’s always nice to enjoy a meal with the right kind of music going in the background. Some of the best options are probably classical or jazz if they’re played lightly in the background while your guests enjoy their meal. The music may even help stimulate conversation, which is sure to help everyone enjoy the party even more. After the meals is over you might want to hit the volume a little louder or play something faster or more contemporary. Of course, you shouldn’t have to buy all new CDs or download anything just to keep your guests musically entertained. There’s lots of free streaming music online if you know where to look for it. Most streaming services will have great jazz and classical playlist, which may even make your planning easier. Some, may even have dinner party playlists which will float your boat.

10. Entertainment
When it comes to a dinner party, one of the best things you can do is keep the conversation rolling. Try to have a list of topics available so that you can jump in whenever the conversation hits a dry point. If you’re introducing people for the first time, try to come up with some topics that will be of interest to each party, so they will find a quicker way to bond. If the conversation keeps tanking, then try to at least keep it flowing until the meal is over. Once everyone is full and ready to retire into the living room or game room, you can pull out a deck of cards or even a board game. Some groups may even enjoy livelier games like charades. This should help spice things up, especially as people begin to tire. Another great option is to encourage some dancing, so be prepared to throw on some fast music if the mood arises.

Dinner parties can be incredibly stressful when it comes to keeping your guests happy without forcing yourself to spend a pretty penny. These tips should guide you through each phase of the dinner party, so you won’t feel like you’re just winging it through each aspect of the party. Plus, with all of the money saved on your amazing meal, you’ll quickly find a few topics that will leave your guests taking notes in the money saving department.

The groundhog has spoken, which means spring should be bounding around the corner any day now. Some regions may be a bit skeptical of the change thanks to some recent cold fronts, but these snowy days may give you some time to plan out a few hobbies you might want to pick up when the weather is a whole lot nicer. Sometimes, activities can run a bit pricey though, but don’t stress out over spending a small fortune on your spring outings, because there’s lots of cheap to free options. These ten hobbies will help keep you busy as you enjoy the beautiful weather that spring brings. Of course, some of them you can even enjoy when the weather isn’t exactly cooperative. All in all, you should be able to find a bit of fun without opening your wallet.

1. Garden
Spring is the best time to enjoy gardening, which is why it is one of the top hobbies you should try out during the spring months. If you don’t already have a garden, then you might want to do a little research to see which items will grow best in your climate. From there, you can easily buy a variety of seeds while paying next to nothing. Gardening will also help bring a little more value to your home, especially if you’re concentrating on floral plants. Of course, if you plant food then it will help cut down on your grocery bill. Both of these methods of gardening can even earn you a bit of extra money as you can easily sell excess food or flowers. Of course, if you don’t have a yard, you can still do some gardening. Tomato hangers are very affordable and will allow you to garden with little effort. You can even plant seeds in some of your recycling items, such as milk jugs, oatmeal containers and even your coffee cups. You can also buy a bag of fertilizer and plant sees directly into it. It’ll help keep weeds out of your items while making your green thumb shine.

2. Cycling
Nothing will make you enjoy the fresh air quite like taking out your bicycle for a joyride and getting in a little exercise. Whether you enjoy mountain biking or taking a leisurely ride, cycling is a lot of fun for the entire family and will help burn off the extra weight you put on during the cold months. One of the best things about the nice weather is you can use your bike for commuting. This will help cut down on the amount of gas you use each week, while brightening the day and allowing you to keep your goals of staying healthier throughout the year. If you already have a bike, then this hobby shouldn’t cost you a penny unless you have maintenance to work on. If you don’t already have a bike, then the best way to work out the problem efficiently is to check out garage sales or even thrift stores. Before you know it, your small purchase should bring more savings to your life.

3. Clean
Spring cleaning is pretty much a given during this season, but you don’t have to get all of your cleaning in at once. Cleaning can be a great stress reducer, especially if you plan to clean in different sections. Try to approach each area of the home in sections so that you can make sure you clean everything that needs it. By taking your time, you won’t
miss some of the spots that tend to never get cleaned. Plus, you may even find some items you don’t need or want anymore. This, in itself could bring some extra money into the home. If you make sure to clean up everything properly then you may find items like your refrigerator run better too, which will save you a boatload of money on power as well. Not to mention, it will also allow you to find any problems that may cost you a lot of money if you don’t fix them right away.

4. Geocaching
A lot of people have jumped on the geocaching bandwagon because it combines exercise with a little investigation work. This amazing hobby can be done in many different areas and will allow you to spice up a boring afternoon without forcing you to spend a thing. The best thing about geocaching is you can get the entire family in on the fun, which will make it a great bonding experience. You can look up geocaching locations online and even have the whole family race to see who finds the location first. The best thing about geocaching is every location will hold a different item, so it will always be a surprise when you find the location. Your family may even want to create a scrapbook with some of the photos you take of each location.

5. Hiking
If you love to spend some time near the great outdoors, then hiking may be the best bet for you. This hobby only requires you to have a decent pair of shoes, which means you won’t have to fork over a lot of money in order to enjoy it. Hiking trails can be found all over the place, but if your local area doesn’t have one then you can probably find all sorts of places to walk, such as parks or even wooded areas. This activity is perfect if you’re looking for a cheap way to get some exercise, but it can also work as a way to teach children about the great outdoors. If you’re having a hard time getting the family interested in the hobby, then you may want to create a few scavenger hunts for the kids. You can even bring along a camera to document all of the exciting things you see. This season is perfect for special sightings, especially since baby animals will be frequently out and about and new flowers will be blooming.

6. Flower Arranging
Growing your own flowers can be rewarding in more ways than one, but if you learn how to arrange them you may find your hobby go from fun to financially rewarding. Anyone who has ever ordered a flower arrangement probably knows that they don’t come at a cheap price. Thus, flower arranging might be a great way to avoid spending money on flowers altogether. You can check out lots of tutorials online that won’t cost you a penny. This will allow you to practice and learn all sorts of tips and techniques. Once your flowers begin to come in more frequently then you might consider sharing your flower arrangements with the community or opening up a small stand to sell them off. If you don’t grow flowers, then you may even want to consider making paper flowers and using your arrangement skills to make them look fabulous. People will still pay for excellent arrangements like this, but they also make the perfect center piece for a special occasion or everyday décor.

7. Painting
Many believe that the natural world is at its best during the spring months, so why not get a little creative and capture the magic happening around you. Painting is one of the best ways to do this and it will allow you to kick back and relax while getting in a bit of fresh air. The best thing about painting is it can be a great stress reliever, especially if you pair it with relaxing music. Although paints may sound like an expensive option, you can save a lot of money if you stick with water colors. These paints last a whole lot longer than most of types of paint and they don’t require a special paper. The best thing is, you can take water colors with you without having to worry about a huge mess.

8. Volunteer
If there is ever a time to get busy in your community, the spring could be the perfect time. The weather is, typically, nicer and won’t force you to deal with extreme cold or heat, which is sure to make you feel more comfortable in your surroundings. This will make the volunteer experience even more fun. One of the best ways to volunteer is to join groups like Habitat for Humanity, who help build homes for people in need. If construction isn’t your thing, then you can still find lots of things to do. For instance, there is always trash in the community that can be picked up. You can work with a highway cleanup group, or have the family work to clean up your local park. You may even see if there are any groups willing to plant trees to help promote cleaner air. It doesn’t always have to be about the big picture though. You can start in your community by gardening for the elderly or helping others by walking their dogs and any other necessary chores.

9. Join a Sport
There’s lots of great sports going on during the spring months. For kids, the local community should have low cost or free leagues that will allow your child to join a soccer or baseball team. Of course, there’s plenty of sports for adults to enjoy too. For instance, tennis is one of the biggest sports during the spring months and will allow you to work out some frustration while getting in your exercise. If you like things a bit slower paced, then golf might be the perfect sport to pick up during this season. You can easily rent clubs or find a set at a thrift store if you’re looking to save money. Apart from these sports, you should also be able to find a low cost sports league for adults or a popular activity, like yoga, that you would otherwise do indoors.

10. Rock Collection
Spring is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. One way to encourage this may be to start rock collecting. You can find rocks just about anywhere you go, which makes this hobby incredibly convenient. You may find it a lot of fun to try to figure out which types of rocks you find in your area. Of course, if you travel then rock collecting is a hobby that can transform your little adventure into a big one. Best of all, there’s lots of maps online that can lead you to places that will allow you to collect arrowheads or other items worthy of your collection. If you really like the hobby, then you may want to get a rock polisher to help make your rocks really stand out in your collection. You may find, this hobby gets your family out of the house more and encourages the children to explore the world around them. You never know, you may even end up lucky and find a rock worth a pretty penny.

Spring is a great time to become one with Mother Nature. There’s lots of great things to do during this season, but if you’re on a budget you may end up missing some of the best things out of fear of overspending. These ten hobby ideas will allow you to have the fun you deserve without having to sacrifice too much of your hard earned money. So you can fall back in love with spring and enjoy every moment of this lively season.

Stress can be one of the worst things in your life. It can cause weight gain, other mental and physical health problems and often stands in the way of you meeting your goals. For many, stress takes a lot out of their life, which is why so many turn to expensive methods to help reduce the stress they feel. For those on a tight budget, stress can feel like a never ending burden that only grows bigger as time passes. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to help take care of your stress that won’t force you to feel like you’re going to go bankrupt over the problem. These ten suggestions may help you channel your own inner peace and won’t force you to give up a huge chunk of your money just to find relief from the problem.

1. Take a Tech Break
In our busy world, technology seems to take over our lives without us even realizing it. It doesn’t matter if you love chatting the day away with friends on social media or if you have to be tied to your phone or email for work because technology can bring you down no matter the reason you use it. If you want to deal with some of your stress, then try shutting down the devices in your home. The phones can be turned off as can the computers, gaming consoles, televisions sets and anything else that will steal away your attention. At first, you may feel a little anxious that you aren’t constantly being bombarded by the outside world, but after a day or two, you’ll find that living life without something attached to your face could help you feel invigorated. Of course, when it comes down to it, a lot of people can’t make this switch because of work. Although the office may require you to be connected during the work hours, you can turn your devices off the moment you clock out. If this isn’t the case, then limit the amount of times you look at your phone or check your email. While you’re enjoying your technological detox, keep yourself busy. Try going outside for some fun and fresh air. Another great option is to read a book, work on housework or begin the art project you’ve been thinking of.

2. Walk
For years, people walked just about anywhere they wanted to go. Now, we have cars that take away the physical burden. The only problem is, walking has been proven to reduce stress on the mind and body. Walking is one of the best ways to keep your body relaxed while burning calories. Plus, the soothing motions of the walk will give you time to clear your thoughts and get rid of any stress that has been building up during the day. In many cultures, especially with Buddhists, walking is a part of life that should be done every day because it helps with inner peace while helping the individual feel connected to the world as a whole. Of course, doctors also recommend that you walk at least 30 minutes a day, which might be a great indicator of the health benefits it brings. If you’re still not convinced, walking will help you lose weight, which is sure to help you ditch some of your extra stress anyway.

3. Meditate
Another great practice, taken from Buddhist culture, is meditation. Often, when a person is encouraged to mediate, they feel intimidated because the activity may seem boring or pointless. One of the major problems with meditation for most people is shutting down the mind so that they can relieve themselves of the stress that life brings. Sure, when you try meditation you may be less than an expert, but before you know it the activity will finally start to reveal some major benefits. If you’re having trouble with meditation, then consider your surroundings. Often, we have too many distractions going on, which makes it impossible to center ourselves. A room with less items in it, including technological devices, can help make this easier. You may even want to get your entire family in on meditation time. It is said that if we taught all 8 year olds to meditate, that violence would be eliminated from society in a mere generation. So, if this is the case, think about how much the activity would help reduce stress that’s eating away at your daily life and happiness.

4. Coloring Books
Adult coloring books are huge. If you’ve managed to miss out on the trend then now might be the time to grab yourself a coloring book so you can find some relaxation. There’s just something special about taking a walk down memory lane to the days of childhood coloring that will help you relax. They make coloring books in a wide assortment of themes, so you should be able to find something that catches your interest. The best thing about coloring books is you can have the kids sit down and color too, which means you’ll get some much needed quiet time while you sit down and relax. Of course, if you’re not willing to spend the money on a coloring book then you can always surf the web to see if there’s any coloring sheets that will suit you. Also, you can always scan and print the pages from a book so that you can keep using it over and over again.

5. Laugh
Of all of the cheap ways to help heal your stress, laughter is probably the best one of all. Laughter is so good for mental and physical health that it’s a wonder why so many people don’t laugh on a daily basis. So, if you’re really feeling down, try to work up a good laugh using past memories or joking around with your friends and family. If you’re feeling like you want some alone time, then go to the movies to see a comedy or simply put on your favorite comedic movie at home. Another great option is to take a night for yourself and see a stand-up comic. The more you laugh, the better you’ll feel so feel free to crack up even if the jokes aren’t exactly the best. Before you know it, you’ll feel energized and ready to take on whatever problems are getting you down.

6. Get a Massage
One of the most relaxing things you can do to help reduce stress and tension is to get a massage. Some people believe they have to spend a small fortune on a massage at a spa or through a masseuse, but there are ways around this problem. For instance, if you’re willing to spend some money on a massage then you might look at the prices of students in the area. Sometimes, you can even go to a massage school and receive a massage at no cost you. If you’re a student, then your on-campus health service might offer massages to help reduce stress during exam periods or throughout the semester. If free suits your budget even more then you may want to consider asking your partner for a massage. This can be a great way to bond with one another, especially if the stress has been getting in the way of your relationship. Apart from these methods, you may want to invest in a massage chair or back or foot massager. It may seem like the price is outrageous, but as you add up how much you’ll save in the long run you’ll see it’s a great investment.

7. Journal
Back in the day, journaling used to be a common thing for adults to do. Even teenagers enjoy the benefits of journaling. However, as we grow older we tend to find a number of things we’d rather do than journaling. It may be time to channel your inner teenager and get back into the activity. Whether you choose to write in a notebook or keep a personal blog, getting all of your feelings out can prove to be one of the best ways to relieve yourself of stress without paying a small fortune. Best of all, scientist have recently stated that writing and journaling can have great effects on the brain and mental health.

8. Ditch the Jolt
Although you may think that caffeine has a positive effect on your mood, you might find that your daily jolt could be causing you even more stress. Sugar can also be a quick way to make your stress elevate, which means the milk chocolate may not be a wise choice when you’re feel down due to your stress. In fact, anything that gets you moving faster than you normally would is a sure fire way to make your stress levels escalate, even if you do feel better after a couple of minutes of taking the stimulant. However, if you take a week or so away from coffee, tea, sweets and energy beverages then you may find your body relaxes faster. This will help you not sweat the small stuff, so you can get back to a stress free life.

9. Spend Time with the Fur Baby
It doesn’t matter if you have a cat or a dog, because spending time with animals can help cut back on your stress significantly. Dogs, for instance, tend to have a happy demeanor which will spread to you as the two of you play. Pets also encourage you to get outside more as you take them for walks or play games with them. This can help destress your body and mind, while allowing you to get healing exercise. Apart from play time, petting your animal can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure significantly. It is even proven that cats’ purrs will help heal the body while taking away stress. If you don’t have a fur baby then there’s still ways you can enjoy these benefits. Of course, adopting a pet is one of your best options as it will save a life and make you feel amazing. However, if you can’t have a pet then consider offering a pet-sitting service or volunteer to walk your neighbor’s dogs. If you love cats then see if there’s a cat café in your area, so you can enjoy play time while catching up on a good book or gossiping with a friend.

10. Enjoy Music
If there’s one way to get more out of life, it’s definitely listening to music. When you’re feeling stressed, try to put on your favorite songs and if you have the urge to dance then go for it. You may be surprised as to how much better you feel after a long day. If you’re feeling stressed at work, then see if you can listen to music quietly in your office or add headphones to your day. One of the best forms of music you can listen to is classical though because it promotes healthy brainwaves that may leave you feeling better faster. Music helps keep us entertained while promoting happiness that works against stress. So, make sure to create some awesome playlists to get you through the day when you’re feeling less than joyous due to stress.

Stress is a part of everyone’s life, but you don’t have to let it take control. These ten tips should help you to find a cheap and efficient way to get past your stress issues, so you can come out on the other side feeling so much better. So, now, money doesn’t have to stand in the way of your stress relief.

Spring is on its way, which means marathons should be following shortly after. If this is your first year of marathon running, then you may be a little stressed out about affording your current hobby. There’s no reason to fret your choice in activity though as there are many ways to work around the expensive price of your first marathon. Of course, if you’re a seasoned runner, you may still want to find a few ways to take away the high price of your marathon season. So, don’t skip out on the training because you’re afraid you won’t make the financial requirements. With these ten tips, you’ll be ready to get past the expensive bump in the road, so you can show the world what you’re made of.

1. Sign Up Early
They always say, the early bird gets the worm, which is certainly the case when it comes to registering for your marathon. You want to try to keep an eye on any marathon you’re interested in and then sign up and pay your fees as soon as the marathon takes submissions. Generally, the price of early admissions is much lower than it is when the race nears, so you’ll be saving some major money here. Sometimes, it can be hard to keep up with all of the dates, so you may want to come up with your own special marathon calendar, so you’ll know just when you need to start up the sign up process. You should also sign up for newsletters for every race you’re interested in. This will help get you the guidelines and prices well before the race, so you can decide if you’re going to participate and enjoy the early pricing. Plus, if you pay the fee ahead of time, you’ll be more likely to actually go through with the race.

2. Do a Charity Run
Charity runs can be a lot of fun because they aren’t all about winning, but earning money for a good cause. This can really be a great motivator when it comes down to it because it will allow you to feel inspired while running. Of course, it’s also great if you’re looking to save some money. Sure, there is still a fee during charity runs, but if you can find a sponsor then you may not have to worry about this fee at all. It does help if you already have a great running record though as this is sure to inspire more people to donate more money to your cause. However, if you’re just staring out then you should still be able to get some sponsors, but it may take a lot more work. Generally, if you take some time to walk around to local businesses and pitch your cause, you may be able to get a few people on board to help you with your charity run. Networking is key here, so make sure you make friends that may be able to lend a helping hand in the future too.

3. Make Sure You’re Ready
One major problem people run into is not being ready to take on a marathon. These races can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never run one before or if you’ve never seen one. One of the best things you can do is measure your progress while training and setting goals. If you’re nowhere near where you need to be when the race opens up for submissions, then don’t sign up. Instead, take the time to keep training like you’re going to the race. You should also attend the race just to see what it’s like. Generally, if you’re not on track for the race and you try to run it anyway, you may get discouraged and throw in the towel when it comes to marathons as a whole. So, ensuring you’re prepared for the challenge will save you some money and prevent you from giving up a healthy activity. You also don’t want to feel bad about wasting money if for whatever reason you find yourself unable to get through the race, as this may make you feel discouraged too.

4. Race Bags Are Awesome
When you sign up for a race, you usually get a race bag at the beginning. Typically, these are filled with crucial things you’ll need for the race; such as your number! Generally, the bags tend to be forgotten after the main course goodies are taken from it, which is no surprise considering most athletes would prefer to spend the time stretching and getting physically ready for the race. However, you may want to revisit your race bag when the race is over. You can usually find some amazing coupons that will help further your hobby. For instance, many race bags will offer coupons for other races, so you won’t have to pay full price on the upcoming races. You may even be able to get an early discount on next year’s race, which might leave you feeling pretty pumped up. Apart from race coupons, you may also find a few coupons for running accessories or trips to the spa to help you recover from your trip. Last but not least, some bags will even include hotel and restaurant discounts for those traveling for each race.

5. Fundraise
Don’t feel like you have to pay for your marathon fees out of pocket. In fact, one of the best ways to help you beat the price of the marathon is to run a few fundraisers. Make sure you let everyone know why you’re running the fundraiser, so they will feel more apt to want to help give to your cause. The fundraiser can be for just about anything too. If you’re into baking, then hit the kitchen and whip up some of your favorite recipes for a bake sale. Crafts are always a great opportunity to earn a bit of extra money. In fact, if you make t-shirts for the marathon promoting yourself then you may find the giving spirit will rise as many communities love to support their local athletes. Of course, coming up with your own race may also help bring in money, if you sell tickets and t-shirts. Your community’s school may even be willing to allow you to use their track if you go through the proper channels.

6. Join a Running Club
One of the best things you can do with any hobby is find a club to join. Of course, when it comes to running clubs, you may get more for your money if you take part in this social club. Often, running clubs can offer discounts on marathons, which will help keep your budget much lower. Not to mention, if you travel with your running club, you won’t have to spend as much on travel costs or accommodations, which will make your marathon even sweeter. Apart from reaping financial benefits, a running club can inspire you to get more out of your running. With seasoned marathon runners in your inner circle, you’ll be able to get all sorts of helpful advice to improve your running capabilities. Not to mention, you’ll have more motivation and fun when you have others to stand by your side in this often trying hobby.

7. Minimize Takeout
Many runners tend to think takeout is the solution to their calorie burning hobby. Since fast food can be cheap and it’s certainly fast, a lot of runners take these restaurants often, especially when they’re out of town for a marathon. Fast food can be a fast track to financial problems though. Sure, the calories in the food are pretty high, but after eating takeout more than once a day, the price tag will add up substantially. Also, these foods aren’t good for you in the slightest bit, which could lead to health problems down the line. This could end up running you even more money, which won’t help you out when it comes to your marathon budgets. Instead of eating take out, try to find wholesome snacks and drink protein drinks. When you’re traveling, make a point to head to the grocery store instead of a restaurant. You’ll find that you’ll save a lot more in the long run if you follow this method.

8. Volunteer
If you don’t mind stepping up and helping with the big event, then you may be able to reap some major benefits. In many cases, but not all, offering to volunteer to help kick off an event can help you get your marathon fees waived, which will cut down substantially on the cost of your marathon expenditures. If this is your plan, you should talk to the organizers of the event well in advance to help make this a reality though. Sometimes, volunteer slots fill up quickly, while other times the organization needs to discuss allowing you to waive fees for your services. All the same, if you can get the fees waived by putting in some work it could do you some favors in the long run. Plus, you’ll already gain a presence at the marathon, which could earn you sponsors in the future.

9. Train at Home
Don’t spend a fortune on a gym membership or a personal trainer when you can simply train at home. One of the best places to start your training is in your own neighborhood. You can easily begin by running around the block or a nearby park. This is also a great way to get a support team as neighbors make great running partners. As far as tips are concerned, you can easily look online to find most of the information you need. Some forums may even give you a personalized response to some of your problems, so you can improve with every run you take. Apart from using websites to customize your training and improve your skills, you can download a wide assortment of apps to help you keep track of your progress. From pedometers to calorie trackers, you’ll feel like you have a professional team helping you out.

10. Splurge on Supplies
A lot of people think they can get away with buying a cheap pair of running shoes or run in clothing that they already had lying around the house. Before you know it, you may find that you’re uncomfortable, covered in sweat and the clothes are pretty much ruined. Running accessories should be bought with quality in mind, rather than price. A good pair of running shoes won’t just last you a long time, but they’ll help support the body and encourage you to run faster and further. Another must have item for women is a good sports bra. This can make or break your run. Apart from that, running clothes should be designed to wick away sweat in order to prevent chaffing when your body begins to heat up. Also, you should think about items that offer compression to help with blood flow and convenience. When you have the right clothes and shoes, make sure you care for them properly by washing in cold or adding anti-bacterial and anti-fungal powders to the shoes.

Marathon running can be a lot of fun and can leave you feeling like a success. However, the price of these big events might make all of this dwindle away. These ten tips should have you running your way to happiness, while saving a pretty penny on your hobby. Before you know it, you’ll be a veteran in the marathon world and may even have a few tricks of your own to share with newcomers.

Winter in about to begin winding down, which means it’s time to start thinking about what you want to do for Spring Break. College students often struggle with this vacation period because there’s so many fabulous options, but so little cash to follow them through with. If you’re on a tight budget during this season, you may want to rethink your options. There’s actually a lot of fun things you can do over your Spring Break that will allow you to get in the relaxation you deserve while keeping to the budget that won’t leave you rustling up change for top ramen over the next few months. With these ten ideas, Spring Break may become a little more than your time to spend on the beach while handing over your only spending money for over priced goods.

1. Rethink Your Location
When it comes to college and Spring Break, you may feel the need to follow the crowd and go for some of the top Spring Break locations. You know, Cape Cod, Florida, Cancun and other way out of budget locations. There are other places you can go to have a good time though, which won’t force you to leave the country or even spend a small fortune. One great option is to find a beach town that isn’t going to be overcrowded with tourists. There’s actually many small towns that have perfect relaxing beaches that won’t force you to spend hours looking for a spot to catch up on your tan. You may want to look at states like Oregon, Washington, North or South Carolina for these sweet spots. Another fine option is to catch the tail end of ski and snowboard season. You won’t have to wait in huge lines here and you’ll be able to get in the last bit of fun in the snow before the heat wave begins. Finally, you could also search for things to do near you. Even if you travel to a nearby city, you could find that there’s lots of entertainment that won’t force you to spend extra money on a hotel room.

2. Split the Cost
Spring Break is always made better when you share the fun with your friends, so why not take the concept of sharing a little further? Rather than buying everything with your own money and having everyone take on their own expenses, you could end up saving big time if you just split all of the costs. For instance, booking your own hotel won’t be cost efficient on a college budget, but if you share your room with 2 to 4 people, you may feel like the room is even more affordable than you thought. Another great option is to look into Groupon deals, so you can get even more out of your stay without having to spend a small fortune. This is a great route to take if you plan on eating at restaurants. Of course, it may be more frugal to buy some groceries to get you through the trip. With the bill split with everyone, you’ll be eating on pennies a day if you shop right. Apart from that, it may be wise to drive to your location, so you can split the price of gas, rather than forcing everyone to pay for plane or bus tickets.

3. Don’t Be a Tourist
Most of the time, college students end up staying where all of the action is going to be happening. Between beach parties and the convenience of restaurants, it might seem wise to stay in tourist areas. However, you’re going to end up paying a lot more in these regions. If you can, find a hotel that isn’t in the spotlight. Inns and motels won’t charge you a fortune and tend to be close enough to public transit, so you can get around with ease. You should also avoid restaurants in the tourist zone too as they may end up charging you an arm and a leg for food that isn’t all that great. Instead, ask around to see where the locals eat. Beach towns are especially known for great little hole in the wall restaurants that offer great portions at a low price. Finally, don’t buy your family souvenirs in these areas as you won’t come out ahead. The stores generally hike up the prices because they know tourist will pay them.

4. Shop Ahead
It’s hard to plan for Spring Break, especially when you’re juggling classes, budgeting issues and the fear that one or all of your professors may spring a huge project on you just before the holiday. However, if you’re thinking about your budget more than anything else, then you may want to go ahead and plan out your Spring Break. Booking hotels, flights, bus tickets and rentals are always best done as early as possible, so you don’t end up spending a pretty penny on them. Although it’s only February, you should hurry and get in your reservations before the price goes way up and everything gets booked up. For some, Spring Break starts in March, so you’re looking at a very small window to get your room and flight prepped for the vacation. If you’re worried about not being able to go then book a room where there’s no cancellation fee and find an airline that offers refundable tickets. You’ll be thankful you planned early, especially when you have more spending cash on your trip.

5. Mid-Week Travel
Although a lot of students want to take in the full effect of Spring Break, it may be wise to cut your break a little short. Leaving in the middle of the week is the best way to enjoy savings when it comes to airlines and hotels. If you can plan your trip as just a short rendezvous, then you’ll end up spending less money anyway and you’ll have the much needed time to study. Of course, if you’re not cool with only going for a few short days then you may want to see if you have exams during the last days of class. If not, then you can skip a few classes and return during the middle of Spring Break week. This will give you a full week of fun, plus the savings. Then, you’ll even have time to unwind and work on projects before returning to class on Monday.

6. Buy a City Pass
If you’re not a huge fan of the beach life, then you may want to see what all the city has to offer. Of course, this can really cost you a lot, especially if you plan on going to museums, amusement parks and other attractions that actually cost money. One way to remedy this problem and to get more out of your vacation is to check out a City Pass. You can usually get one for around $50, and it will give you just about double the value. The pass often gets you into many locations and will give you front of the line access in most cases. One of the best things about investing in a city pass it will allow you to learn more about the city and check out things you never realized were in the city.

7. Camp
With the weather warming up, you may want to take this time to fully clear your mind from the stresses of college. One of the best ways to do this is to take to the great outdoors. Camping is one of the cheapest ways to enjoy yourself during the week. If you plan accordingly, it could be one of the cheapest ways to do so too. If you live near a free camp site then all you really need to get set up is some basic groceries and a tent. Sometimes, you can rent tents for fairly cheap, but if you know someone who may have one then it might be the better bet to ask around. While you’re camping, make sure to take precautions with the cold weather and try to bring a group with you or at least keep in touch with someone while you’re enjoying your tranquil time.

8. Go Home
When it comes down to it, one of the cheapest vacations you can take is heading home. Imagine how great you’ll feel after eating some good home cooking for the week and sleeping in a bed that doesn’t make you feel as if you woke up on a bed of rocks. Getting out of the dorm will help make the last portion of your vacation a little fresher, while hanging out with the parents for a while will make them happy. You can use your vacation time to get in touch with old friends who are still in town too. Before you know it, you’ll feel recharged and ready to make your final exams weep.

9. Watch for Bedbugs
Most college students try to find the best possible deal when it comes to accommodations when they travel. Although this is pretty normal, it could lead to a lot of expenditures down the line. A lot of cheap hotels and motels have bed bugs. That’s not saying all of them do, in fact, even a high class hotel could have bedbugs. So, before you book, make sure you check out the reviews to see if anyone else has recently had a problem with bedbugs. If you can’t find anything, then it’s probably safe to go ahead and book your room. However, when you arrive, don’t bring any of your items in before checking to see if there’s bedbugs in the room. They’re quite small, but you should be able to find husks or maybe even a few bugs on the mattress or in your chair cushions. Make sure you lift up the mattress before you call the room safe though. If you end up with these pests on a trip it could mean having to do lots of laundry or even replacing a mattress. Worse yet, you could have to pay for an exterminator to come in which ranges in the thousands!

10. Staycation
If you don’t really have a whole lot of money to spend on Spring Break then a staycation may be in order. You may be surprised by how many people end up leaving during the break, which will make the dorms one of the most peaceful places to be. This is perfect if you have a lot of projects to work on during your break. This will also give you a chance to go out and explore the city in which you are living. You may find brand new places to eat, some cool art exhibits or a new place to study when the library is full. Before you know it, you’ll forget all about spending break on the beach, especially when you have new places to show your friends when they get back from break.

College and Spring Break go hand in hand, but it’s hard to keep up with the hype when your budget isn’t on your side. With these ten tips and ideas, you should be able to find a way to make Spring Break memorable without having to tighten your budget even more.

The month of love is finally here, but with all of the expenses you could end up hating your budget. Luckily, February doesn’t have to be all about spending money on your loved ones. There’s actually some great purchases you can make during this short, yet sweet, month that can set your household budget up for success in the later months. With plenty of delayed holiday buys and a few travel surprises, you may find a lot more to love about February. So, grab your favorite Valentine and check out these deals before they’re long gone.

1. Jewelry
Valentine’s Day is a big deal during this month, so you’ll probably see sales everywhere for jewelry. The bad news is you probably won’t want to shop around for a piece of jewelry during the first half of the month. There may be some great Valentine’s Day sales going on, but if you’re patient you can save even more when this year’s must-have Valentine’s Day gift hits the clearance rack. February is also a popular month for proposals, which means rings should be at a high price prior to the holiday. Patience will become your best friend though if you wait for the engagement ring rush to disappear, as engagement season won’t pick up again for a couple of seasons. Of course President’s Day will also do you a huge favor, especially when it comes to online jewelers, so don’t feel bad about holding out until you find the perfect ring at the best possible price.

2. Flowers
You may want to steer clear of flowers for the first half of the month too, because everyone will be ordering them for the big day. However, the moment Valentine’s Day is over, you’ll be privy to some awesome deals on fresh flowers that are sure to make someone special. Of course, even if you’re not looking to gift the flowers, you’ll be able to find an assortment of flowers for your home or business. Bouquets of flowers aren’t the only floral purchases you should make during this month. Spring is right around the corner, so it might be wise to order your flower seeds and bulbs before planting season begins. You may be surprised by the discounts you’ll receive simply by shopping a little early. If you want, you can even get a head start on your planting by planting inside and using a grow light. This will allow you to have a burst of fresh colors the moment the warm weather arrives.

3. Gift Baskets
If you’re looking for an extra special gift for someone then you may want to consider a gift basket during this month. When Valentine’s Day is over, all of the romantic baskets will go on sale, which are generally filled with some pretty awesome wine and delectable chocolates. This will certainly make your day, even especially you aren’t planning on sharing with anyone. Apart from Valentine’s Day baskets, you should be able to get an incredible price on all of the old winter and Christmas baskets that went on clearance last month. As long as there’s no perishable items in the basket, you’ll be all set for Christmas gifting well before you even have to worry about gifts. Easter and summer inspired baskets should still be floating around on some gift basket websites too. Now is the perfect time for Easter baskets as last years will still on be clearance, so you can get stocked up before the holiday even rolls around. Also, summer barbeque or party supplies are always a must, especially when they’re clearanced. Of course, you also can’t go wrong with chocolate covered strawberries, cakes and cookie gift sets that drop in price after every holiday.

4. Furniture
Need to update the furnishings in your home? Now is the perfect time to do so. With President’s Day sales just around the corner, you may want to start looking around to see what your local stores have to offer. During this time of the year, all sorts of furnishing can be up to 60% off, which is sure to make your home renovation even more pleasing. Of course, you don’t have to just shop around locally. Many online stores will have deals that seem out of this world too. Some can even give up to 80% off retail price with free shipping included on certain items. You should always be aware when buying furniture online though. Make sure you’re shopping with a reputable website and that the dimensions will fit your home and are a proper size for what you’re buying. With a little careful shopping, you may find that it is possible to score a deal that will have all of your friends jealous. You might also want to consider shopping around for newlyweds or future grads on your list too, as furniture is a great gift for anyone getting a start in life.

5. Cellphones
If you’ve been waiting forever for new phone releases, then you’re probably on the edge of your seat because release dates are right around the corner. However, this also means you’ll have a great chance of getting a new phone at a reduced price. If you’ve been waiting to grab the latest Samsung or iPhone then February is going to be the perfect time. Since the new comers are about to hit shelves, retailers will be dropping prices to get the old models off of their shelves. This isn’t the only deal happening during the month of February, as many cell phone stores love to get on board with the Valentine’s Day magic by including 2 for 1 deals, or simply lowering the price for special gifts. You may even be able to get a good deal on your service.

6. Skis/Snowboards
Technically, ski and snowboard season isn’t over until April and since there’s still snow coming you may want to dive into some of the deals going on in the month of February. Generally, this is when stores try to clear out all of their gear for this season, so they can pack up and prepare for all of the goodies that next year will offer. Thus, you can probably get up to 60% off on a snowboard or a pair of skis if you look in the right places. Even if you don’t think you’ll be hitting the slopes again this season, you can still stock up for next season so you’ll be ready to go when the slopes open. If you don’t have a local snowboard or ski dealer around you then you can probably still get an outstanding deal. Just make sure you know what you’re buying and that you’re shopping with a reputable store. There’s lots of guides online to help you find your perfect size too.

7. Travel
Apart from a few romantic rendezvous, the travel world in February is pretty glum. Everyone is recovering from the holidays, paying off and debts and they simply don’t want to deal with the weather. So, now is the perfect time to get in a little traveling in if you have vacation time built up. Currently, you can find deals on hotels, cruises, rental cars and even airline tickets. Just about everything you need to book the perfect vacation will be a fraction of the price! Even some amusement parks will try to coax in travelers, so watch out for deals there too. If you’re not planning on traveling this month, you should pass up the chance to shop still. You may be able to find better deals on summer or Spring Break vacations as people still aren’t rushing to book just yet. Make sure you shop around though, as there’s lots of great hidden deals online!

8. Canned Foods
Did you know that February is actually National Canned Food Month? It’s a pretty exciting thing to celebrate considering canned foods have become a necessity in many households. This month, you should find some pretty awesome deals on some already cheap foods, so make sure to stock up as much as you can. You might even want to go through your pantry and donate old foods or foods your family didn’t like so you can clear up more space for the good stuff. You may also want to shop for some of the more expensive canned items you buy, like fruits, so you’ll never have to double-think on the canned pumpkin because it will already be waiting in your cabinet. If you’re a fan of canning your own foods, then you might want to check out supplies for this too as sometimes stores will loop them in for the holiday. No matter what you buy, you may want to use this time to stock up on your emergency food though, so you’ll be ready in case of an accident, financial problem or natural disaster.

9. Wedding
Although engagements are pretty big on Valentine’s Day, weddings aren’t exactly up there. This makes February a great month to get hitched. Sure, some days, like Valentine’s Day may be more expensive to book, but this period is a low point for the wedding industry. Most people prefer to get married in the spring or summer, which leaves a wide opportunity for the winter months. However, most of those who do marry in the winter do so in the early days because it’s easier to get people together and budgets aren’t as crunched as they are after the holiday season. You should be able to get a great price on a venue, caterers and even your dress. If you’re not looking to get married this month, then start booking everything now. You’ll beat the rush, which might save you a bit of money in the long run.

10. Air Conditioning/Humidifier
Although your heater may be going on full blast now, you’ll soon be longing for the days of the cold air. This is why it’s the perfect time to get an air conditioner. Whether you’re shopping for a small unit or looking to have a central air unit installed, you might want to consider getting it now. It’s too cold for most people to even consider an air conditioner, which means the business is slow. You should be able to get a discount on the unit itself as well as an install, so take advantage of the savings before everyone else catches on. Of course, be aware of the air conditioner you’re getting and how much it could affect your power bill. If an air conditioner isn’t what you’re after, then a humidifier might be just what you need. These especially come in handy during the allergy season as so many people suffer from pollen and other seasonal allergies. These are also great to have if your children get sick or are having respiratory problems.

February is a lovely month, but with such a big holiday on the horizon you may already be loathing it. Luckily, there’s a lot to love about this month when it comes to savings in many areas that will make the household happy. So, don’t let the high prices of chocolates get you down, you’ll find some pretty awesome savings when you look in these ten categories.

Spring Break and summer bathing suit season is rapidly approaching, which can cause a bit of a concern when it comes to your feet. The dry winter weather often leaves feet looking less than presentable, which may make you want to hide away during the season of sandals and flip flops. Others prefer to turn to costly treatments that may leave your wallet in a bind when Spring Break splurge time arrives. Worse yet, sometimes the winter weather can cause painful problems, which may require medical or over the counter treatments that add up. If you’re worried about your feet, there are a few ways you can inexpensively heal them before you go out flaunting your favorite sandals during the warm weather.

1. Change Your Diet
When it comes to your body, a lot of problems can be mended simply by changing the way you eat. It may seem like a miracle cure or a false promise, but choosing the right foods for your body can help you avoid foot problems while encouraging current problems to go away. Of course, eating healthy all year long is a must, but you may want to concentrate on certain foods in order to help your skin maintain its health. For instance, kale, broccoli, lemons, limes and wheat grass are some of the best foods you can consume if you plan on keeping your feet looking and feeling outstanding. If you’re not keen on these foods, then blend them into a nice smoothie to improve the taste while getting your fill of fruits and veggies in one single serving. If you’re having a problem with fungus of the nails or on the skin, then garlic will quickly become your best friend. This food naturally gets rid of these problems, which will make you feel better in no time. You may want to avoid spicy foods though, as they force the body to sweat, which can make a problem occur or spread.

2. DIY Foot Soak
Many people will spend an extraordinary amount when it comes to foot soaks. There’s a lot of companies that produce chemical based soaks designed to soften and deodorize with little effort on your end. There’s a better solution though and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. For instance, if you’re having trouble with fungus on your feet, or you simply want to get rid of some dead skin, then you may want to run some hot water and add salt and vinegar. A soak in this combination will help neutralize the foot while taking off the excess skin. Apple cider vinegar is another good option for fungal or bacterial infections and will soften the skin in no time. If you have Epsom salts around the house, then add these to a vinegar and water mix for a soak that will relax you while pampering your feet. A surprising soak to get rid of bacteria is tea. Simply run some hot water and add a few black tea bags and your feet should be on the mend soon. Finally, if you want to really get rid of the calluses and dry skin on your feet then add 1/3 cup vinegar, 1/3 cup Listerine and a teaspoon of salt into some hot water. After soaking for a few minutes you’ll be able to rub the rough skin away, revealing smooth sandal worthy feet.

3. Foot Powder
Keeping your feet sweat free can be one of the best ways to prevent problems, which is a bit hard to do when you wear thick socks and heavy shoes in the winter time. Foot powder is one of the best ways to help you master the art of dry and healthy feet though. However, these powders can really add up and some of them don’t help fight fungus or bacteria that may pop up during this time of the year. One of the best products to turn to in your time of need is baking powder. This is a fairly inexpensive item that most homes already have, which makes it accessible in an emergency. Simply add a little baking powder to your socks and you should stay dry all day. This can also help prevent bacteria from growing in your shoes, which will save you money in the shoe department too. If you’re having problems with fungus, which is common in the winter, then add a bit of garlic to your socks. You can use garlic powder or sliced fresh garlic. Although it might not feel comfortable, the garlic works to fight away the infection and prevents it from spreading.

4. Exfoliate
Exfoliating is one of the best ways to keep your skin as clean as can be and helps reduce the unsightly look of dried skin. However, foot exfoliates can really add up, which is why it might be best to take the DIY road if you can. Rather than simply buying a costly beauty product, it might be wise to take a walk down the food department instead. For instance, coconut salt can be one of the best exfoliates available. The healing properties of coconut have been renowned over the last few years. So, your special scrub won’t just get rid of the dead skin, but will also add nutrients to the fresh and healthy skin. Sugar is another great option, especially if you’re looking for a quick fix. Simply mix it with an oil, like coconut oil, and you’ll have an exfoliate that will outshine some of the expensive brands. Of course, one of the best things you can do is take a walk on the beach, if you live close by. This natural remedy has been used for generations.

5. Moisturize
If your skin isn’t too bad off, then applying a regular lotion after showering can help heal dry skin while also stopping it from returning. However, if you’re looking for a moisturizer that will heal deeply then you may want to avoid the beauty section altogether. You’ll end up throwing away money like it’s going out of style. Instead, take to the pantry. If you have Crisco or lard in your pantry, then you’re good to go. This will go deeply into the skin, which will help rejuvenate the area and heal all of the damage that winter caused. If you’d love a healthier food moisturizer then try out another oil, such as coconut oil. This amazing product will heal with its many nutrients and is very healthy for your body.

6. Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection that affects many people differently. In some it causes itchy skin that burns and flakes, while for others it can cause swelling, sores and other unsightly and uncomfortable problems. Usually, you don’t need a prescription to get rid of Athlete’s Foot, but you may need to buy something over the counter to get rid of the problem. This can add up, quite a bit especially if you end up buying creams which are often criticized for not helping the problem. Generally, the spray is the best option and tends to last longer, but there are natural ways to fix the problem. For starters, drop aspirin tablets into alcohol and then spread the mixture on the feet after a shower to dry out the area. Another option is soaking your feet in vinegar and salt. Adding garlic to your socks will help draw out the fungus too. The best thing you can do is keep your feet dry though. Also, avoiding heat in the area and sanitizing nail clippers can also do a world of good.

7. Healthy Nails
Toe nails that are dry, brittle or yellow can also be embarrassing during the sandal season. Keeping up with your nails can be tough though as many treatments are pricey. There’s a few natural ways to help heal your unsightly nails though. One of the best things you can do is buffer them daily. If you don’t want to spend money on a buffing set, then simply use your thumb! One great option to help your nails look great is a mixture of apple cider vinegar and baking soda. Transform this combination into a paste then let it rest on the nails. If you’re looking to heal your nails of fungus or bacteria then you can use coconut oil, which uses the healthy fatty acids to heal. Another great option is tea tree oil. If growing your nails is a problem then rub olive oil, orange juice or lemon juice to encourage health and growth.

8. Pedicures
When the weather begins to heat up, most people want to make their nails look fabulous which often means spending quite a bit of money on them, especially if you end up going to a high scale salon or spa. Rather than throwing away money on flawless nails, try to do them yourself. You can settle for a solid color for convenience or try your hand at doing patterns of appliques. If you’re not sure you want to tackle your nails by yourself then it might be fun to host a nail painting party. This will give everyone more options to choose from and will ensure you get a fabulous look you’ll be happy to show off. One thing to consider when painting your nails is using a separator, which will help make your nails look fabulous and flawless. There’s no need to splurge on expensive polish either. In fact, the best investment you can make is purchasing natural polishes, which are better for your nails.

9. Invest
A lot of food trouble has to do with being on your feet all day, or the way your feet fit into your shoes. If you’re having trouble here, it could end up getting worse which may cost you quite a bit of money in the long run. One thing you can do here is invest in the insoles that are designed to suit your particular problems. These insoles are designed based on your weight, your arches and other contributing factors, so you’ll get a comfortable fit that will make you feel like you’re walking on clouds. The insoles tend to last a while too, so you’ll get your money’s worth out of them before you have to replace them. Another great thing to invest in for the sake of your feet is a good pair of shoes. If you’re on your feet all day this may be a necessity. Exercise shoes are also a must. You should try to find something lightweight with plenty of ventilation and shock resistance to help you get through the workout without leaving your feet sweaty and in pain. Finally, a decent pair of socks are a must and should be bought to suit your work, exercise and relaxation needs.

10. Clip Your Nails
It may seem like common sense, but keeping your nails cut can help get rid of a lot of problems. For starters, it will stop bacteria from building up on your feet and under your nails. It will also help prevent painful ingrown toenails from occurring. This also helps you avoid odors that may become embarrassing when you switch to your summer footwear. Of course, the key here is to know how to cut your nails properly, in order to avoid major problems later on. Also, after clipping, make sure to keep your clippers and other nail supplies clean.

Taking care of your feet is essential, but spending a fortune on them isn’t. With these simple tips you should be able to be proud of your healthy feet without having to pay outrageous fees on them. Now, you can welcome summer without a second thought!

If you have kids then it’s probably hit the panic period, when it comes to the annual Valentine’s Day party your children’s school puts on. Depending on the class and the school, you’re probably required to bring in Valentine’s for the entire class. You may even be asked to participate in the party or bring something special for the class to enjoy. If you’re on a tight budget, then this may be hard to do as the price quickly begins to add up. The price tag can be even worse if you’ve signed up to be one of the classroom parents for the school year. Luckily, there’s a few ways you can get around the price of your party, which may even leave a little budget for you and your special someone to enjoy.

1. Find Out What’s Going On
Sometimes, it’s easy to get worked up when it comes to school parties. The notes may imply that snacks, cards and attendance are required, especially if it’s your child’s first year of school. Before you go out and spend a small fortune on things for the party, you may want to stop and check out the party notice one more time. If you’re still uncertain of what’s required, talk to the teacher. You can set up an appointment or ask when you pick up your children or drop them off. Of course, if you do want to participate in bringing goodies then it might be wise to feel out what the other students’ parents are bringing. This will help you bring a more original snack, so your food doesn’t end up getting thrown out. If you’re signed up for decorations then talking with the teacher is still a wise idea, so you’ll have a general idea of what you need to spend on the party. You may want to check out the requirements for valentines, as some schools won’t allow characters, require them for the whole class and other rules that may not be written down for you to follow.

2. Double Duty
One thing you may want to try out when it comes to your child’s party is purchasing items in a combo pack when you can. For instance, if you want to give out valentine’s day cards and candy then look for the assortment that sells the two together. Most popular candy brands do this, so it shouldn’t be hard to find the right price for you. This will definitely make things cheaper, unless you choose to DIY your valentines. Another thing to keep in mind, when buying items for the party, is to purchase with a coupon that allow you to get something free with your initial purchase. When it comes to treats, these BOGO deals can really make a difference in how much you end up spending. You may even get lucky and find a snack and beverage deal that will take away most of the cost of the party.

3. Use the Printer
Sometimes, the party slips people’s minds and they wake up remembering that their child will have to bring 30 or more valentines to their class in the morning. If you’re broke, busy, tired or all three then you might want to turn to your old friend: the printer. You can quickly find free templates online for free that will make the kids in the class smile brightly. You can even print out multiple valentines on one sheet of paper, so you’ll minimize waste in this activity too. Of course, if you have plenty of time to get the cards printed out then you may want to look for exciting valentines that allow your child to show off their art skills or personal interests. This could bring more fun to the party and will help your child feel like they have a greater understanding of the holiday. Plus, it’s a whole lot less work for you.

4. DIY Cards
It seems like valentine’s day cards used to be made with love, rather than bought in a store. Now, you can easily take a step back and have your kids go retro for the holiday. Making your own cards can be a real treat that will help you get to know how your children feel about their classmates as well as their artistic tendencies. You might want to start out with helping the kids cut out a bunch of hearts. This is a great way to start off the DIY valentines and, if you use bulk construction paper or printer paper, it won’t cost you a lot of money. From there, you have the kids color the hearts, with paints or crayons, add glitter or sequences and other fun add-ons that will make each valentine special. You may also want to help the kids come up with cute valentine’s slogans. If you’re running dry on these then the internet will certainly help you find the perfect messages for each student. You might also buy a bag of snack candies or lolly pops to add the final touches. Without a doubt, the kids’ DIY valentines will be the star of the occasion.

5. Shop Carefully
A lot of people quickly head to the dollar store of choice when they get their list of Valentine’s day names. This can work in your favor sometimes, but often you end up spending more than you should on the cards. Although the initial price tag may seem smaller than department stores, you’ll probably find that the boxes also have fewer cards in them. This means you’ll have to buy two or three boxes, which will add up to even more money than you’d likely spend at a department store. Sometimes, you can find a great deal here though, but don’t go with your first option. Instead, shop around to see if you can work out a better overall price. The same thing goes when it comes to shopping around for items to go with the valentines. For instance, candy and balloons are probably best purchased at a bulk store, so you won’t have to stress individual prices.

6. Save the Extras
Without fail, it always seems that there’s a few extras in every single box of valentines bought. Generally, these end up winding up in the trash, which is a waste of money. The excess valentines can grow quickly if you have more than one child too. So, instead of tossing them away, put them in a safe place and pull them out next year. You may find you have enough mixed valentines to pass out to your child’s entire class. This will also allow your child to give a wider assortment of valentines, which may be more fun and suit the classroom better. Of course, you can do the same thing for some candies and accessories. For instance, if you had a birthday party at some point then you may want to use the left over balloons to add to the valentines. Themed pencils also add up in the home and make a cute little gift for the kids to enjoy during the school year. With all of the extras, you may end up paying nothing out of pocket for your child’s Valentine’s Day fun.

7. Take to the Kitchen
Whether you’re required to take Valentine’s Day snacks or you just want to do something nice, buying snacks can be a huge costly burden that will send your budget over the edge. One of the best things you can do here is make your foods from scratch. Cookies can be one of the cheapest items to make, especially if you keep them simple. Another great option is cupcakes. You can whip up the batter with just a few ingredients and red or pink icing is a breeze to make without forcing you to spend a penny. Kids are pretty easy to please, so you shouldn’t have to go to extra lengths to make them feel loved with treats. Of course, you may want to ask your child’s teacher ahead of time for a list of known food allergies before you take to planning. Once you’re cleared to try out your recipe, you may want to bring the kids in to lend a helping hand.

8. Go Natural
Another way to keep your Valentine’s Day treats frugal is to give the kids natural goodies. You can easily cut apples and serve them with peanut butter for a healthy snack that won’t leave them with ants in their pants. Vegetables with dips are another great option that won’t cut into your budget either. If you want to get creative, then ants on a log are usually a favorite for little kids that love a little fun with their food. Sure, you may not be as cool as the parent who splurged with ice cream or pizza, but the other parents will thank you when their child comes home slightly less hyperactive thanks to your snack. Plus, you may not want to add on to the calories the children are taking, which will show them how to make wise eating choices.

9. Utilize the Wardrobe
Many parents love to go out and buy their child a whole new outfit for the holiday party, when there’s really no reason to do so. Most kids have something red, pink or white in their wardrobe so you might want to start there. You can always add to the child’s attire by using heart appliques, as well as little cupid cut outs. You can print these and cut them out to place on the child’s clothing. Plus, your child might love sharing their holiday accessories with friends who admire the wardrobe add-ons. If you love to spice it up with a Valentine’s Day outfit, then make one yourself. Have the kids choose an old shirt, turn it inside out and use colored paints to write love messages, hearts and anything else that shows off the holiday fun. It’ll be a great rainy day project that the kids will love to show off at the party.

10. Consider the Teacher
A lot of students love to get their teachers gifts, especially when it comes to the holidays. So, your child may want to pass on a little love to the person who works hard to teach them every day. This doesn’t mean you have to go all out for the gift though. In fact, you may want to keep is as simple as a special cupcake or cookie made especially for the teacher. Your child may also want to make a special valentine, which is another great option. However, if you do want to splurge here, you might want to consider creating a cookie or soup in a jar or something else you can easily make at home. Your child’s teacher will be especially pleased to receive the thoughtful gift, especially if it’s homemade.

Your child’s Valentine’s Day party at school doesn’t have to mean you need to spend a small fortune to keep the event fun. There’s lots of ways you can cut back on spending while also ensuring your child has everything needed to fit in with the class. With a few simple tricks, you should be able to have a little extra money for the babysitter, so you and your special someone can have a Valentine’s Day celebration of your own, without having to worry about pinching pennies.

With winter here and spring on its way, you may be faced with some major problems caused by the poor weather conditions. May it be a blizzard or a tornado, it’s always best to have a game plan so you and your family can get through the tough time with as little stress as possible. One of the major hazards of this time of the year is power outages. With the weather at its coldest you may wonder how to stay safe while it may be hard to get around. Of course, keeping your family fed and happy is also a concern as power outages can be just as stressful for children as adults. These ten tips should give you a few options to help you maintain calm in the household while ensuring everyone is safe and sound.

1. Consider Backups
Ending up in the dark when you’re not expecting it can really make a situation more stressful and frightening. There’s generally not a way to predict power outages, so the best thing you can do is keep some backups in a place where you know you’ll be able to get to them. One of the best things to have is a generator, but these can be pretty pricey if you’re on a tight budget. Not to mention, they aren’t cheap to run either. However, if you find yourself in the dead of winter then it could be one of your best options for staying warm. Another great option is a fireplace or a wood burning stove. These are perfect for a small amount of light, but they’ll also allow your family to keep warm, which is more important than light in most cases. Candles and flashlights are also another must have, so make sure you have plenty on hand. Candles may burn down quickly, so it might be wise to buy an abundance of cheaper candles for emergencies. You should also keep spare batteries on hand. Last but not least, solar chargers will come in handy for some generators, lights or simply to keep your phone on in case you need emergency assistance.

2. Think Perishables
Usually, if the power is only a temporary problem, your food should be fine as long as you keep the refrigerator and freezer closed. However, if you’re looking at the power being out for some time then you may want to jump into action when it comes to some of your foods. If the power is out due to some reason other than the weather, you may want to consider grilling up some meat. It will take your mind off of the outage and will provide a nice meal for the family and maybe even some of the neighbors. If the weather is bad, then you might want to consider cooking the meats over the fire. You may also want to consider making up hot cocoa over the fire so you can get rid of some of your dairy. The kids may even calm down if you offer them ice cream, which will help you get rid of some of the food that may spoil. Finally, if you’re worried about some of the food then place it in a cold bag and stick it back in the freezer. This should help keep it cold for longer.

3. Emergency Supplies
A power outage can be a bad time to be without emergency supplies. You should always have a few gallons of water in the home, so you can be prepared to handle a situation such as this. Often, power failures during a weather emergency could also hint at a problem with water, especially if you’re dealing with a situation like a tornado. You won’t want to be without bottled water during this time because it’s always best to be safe and avoid potentially dangerous water. A first aid kit is another must in a power outage. If it’s not daylight outside then you or someone in your family could trip and fall, thus leading to an emergency. Burns are also more common as people have to work with fire to keep warm and gain light. Of course, it’s wise to be prepared for anything, so pack a first aid kit with a little bit of everything.

4. Think Out of the Box
You will have to get creative when it comes to keeping your family at ease during this time. One of the best things to do is come up with fun snacks. All you have to do is channel your favorite camping hacks here. S’mores are a great option, but you can always substitute the ingredients to suit what you already have on hand. Cereal mixed with chocolate and nuts is also a great way to keep the kids happy, especially since it’s a snack they’ll have to eat slowly. If you have hot dog supplies on hand, then this is a simple meal idea. Finally, you can easily make popcorn with kernels and oil placed over the heat. You can also have the kids build a fort in the living room. This will help create extra warmth while allowing the kids to make happy memories of the outage. Of course, make sure to keep the tent far enough away from the fire, for safety. If you don’t have a fireplace, then use colored paper to cut out flames and tape them on a flashlight. The kids will love the extra touch.

5. Prep Food
If you know you’re going to be without power or that the weather may become too bad to sustain power, then you might want to prep some emergency foods. This can be particularly fun if you invite the whole family to participate. One of the best options is granola bars. They’re easy to make, can be customized to suit your taste buds and they contain lots of energy. Soups are another must have food in the cold weather and they can easily be reheated over a fireplace or wood stove. Any kind of meat jerky or dried fruit is another must as these foods can last for quite some time and provide great nutrients in an emergency. All of these foods can be put in the freezer for some time and are easy to unthaw in case an emergency happens. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to avoid a power outage, your family will still love chowing down on them. Another great option to prep ahead of time is trail mix or nut mixes as they’re good for the body and will help provide the energy your family needs.

6. Work Around the Elements
Keeping warm or cold in a power outage can prove to be one of the hardest parts of the situation. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to prepare yourself to deal with this problem so you don’t have to feel too much discomfort. If it’s cold outside during your power outage then you should cover your windows with thick blankets or close the drapes, if you have them. This will help prevent the draft from keeping the house colder than it has to be. You should also make sure everyone’s wrists and ankles are covered and you should try to wear a hat that covers the ears. This helps keep the body from getting rid of its own natural heat, which is what you need when you’re fighting off the cold. Of course, layers will also come in handy here. If you have one, you may want to heat up some hot water over the fire and place it in a hot water bottle. Placing this in the bed or on your feet can really warm things up. Exercise is another no-brainer that will help keep the body feeling more comfortable. If it’s hot then you have a few options. Covering the windows is also good here, to block the heat from warming up the house. Tin foil also works in this case, but make sure to place the correct side outward. You can use a battery operated fan or mister to keep cool too. If you can get cold water, then wet a rag and keep it on your forehead. Ice packs will also do the trick, if you’re willing to open your freezer.

7. Keep Informed
In times of emergency, it’s important to have something that will keep you in touch with the outside world. One of the best things to have on hand is a battery operated radio. You can usually buy these for fairly cheap and they pick up AM and FM radio waves. If you look in the camping section of your favorite department store, you may even be able to get a flashlight, radio, TV combination that runs on batteries. This can really come in handy, especially during tornado season. Of course, if you have a device to prolong your battery use for your phone then this could also be a great way to keep in touch.

8. Have Fun
Sometimes, the best thing to do when you’re in a power outage is to try to make it as fun as possible. You can easily come up with a few games to play to keep the kids busy, especially if you have board or card games lying around the house. This may also be a great time to catch up on one another’s lives. Talking and telling stories should make the time fly and will allow you to feel closer to the family. If you have arts and crafts supplies, then you might want to pull them out and have the kids get creative. Since there won’t be any distractions, the kids may even have more fun. Reading is another great option too, especially if you take turns sharing pieces of your favorite book.

9. Consider Sanitation
One major problem with a power outage is it could be just the beginning of your problems. You may find you have trouble with your water too, especially if it’s so cold that the pipes end up freezing. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to help keep your family safe from illnesses like dysentery. For starters, you should keep hand sanitizer in your first aid kit or in the home. This will allow you to cleanse hands if you have an electric water heater or if the water is tainted in some way. If your pipes freeze, you should flush the toilet only when necessary. Also, it may be wise to use paper plates, paper towels and plastic utensils as doing dishes with no hot water could lead to problems.

10. Transportation
It’s important to consider transportation when it comes to an emergency. However, if you have an electric garage and you end up in a power outage then you’ll need to know how to get out of the garage manually. You may need to brush up on this in the manual so you can be prepared. If it’s snowing, make sure you have shovels on hand because you’ll probably have to clear a path to get out into the storm. Apart from that, you should also keep extra fuel on hand as you’ll be driving slower. Finally, never ever run your vehicle in a closed space.

Getting through a power outage can be a big struggle, but being prepared will make life a bit easier. These ten tips will allow you to cover all of the major elements so your time in the dark can be fun, comfortable and safe. Before you know it, the power will be back on and you’ll be ready to prep for the next time something gets in the way of your day.

When it comes to being in college, the quality of food isn’t exactly on the top of the priority list. In fact, anything that tastes good or can be eaten on the go usually trumps the nutrition value. So, there’s no wonder why so many college students end up feeling sick or malnourished after only a few weeks of being at college. Since money is a huge concern for college students, there are a few ways you can utilize your budget while still eating healthier meals. These ten tips will help you beat the top ramen blues, so you can become a quick, easy and cheap eater without having to sacrifice your taste buds or your favorite cravings.

1. Enjoy Water
One of the best ways to cut down on your urge to snack is to drink plenty of water. Water fills the stomach without adding extra calories to your diet, which is great on many levels. Plus, water helps filter out the toxins in the body, which will keep your healthier even if you’re eating poorly. If you find yourself eating too much at meals, then drink a glass of water before you eat. It will jump start your metabolism and make you feel like you’ve had plenty to eat. Thus, when you do buy food, it will last longer. The best thing about water is you should be able to get it for free around campus at water fountains, or in your cafeteria. If there is a charge for water, then it might be wise to buy bottles in bulk or grab a portable container with a built in filter. This should handle most of your needs for a price that won’t take away from your entertainment budget.

2. Reduced Price Produce
If you tend to be a healthy eater or you find yourself getting sick a lot, then you might want to look around the reduced price area in your local grocery store. Usually, this food is about to meet its expiration date and the store needs to clear it as soon as possible, so the price is dropped substantially. Using this method will cut down on your food budget quite a bit and won’t leave you starved for nutrients. You should keep an eye out for both fruits and vegetables though, so you get an even balance to your meal. Fruits are perfect for snacking, but are also great for infusing water, especially if you’re beginning to feel sick. If you’re living on cheap oatmeal for breakfast, then this is also a great way to spice things up. The ramen diet won’t be as bad with reduced price vegetable add ine. Of course, if you’re looking to eat healthier, then you can work around the produce to find a recipe that’s quick, simple and cheap.

3. Fat Food Isn’t the Answer
Sure, it’s hard to get around the lure of indulging in your fast food cravings, especially when you’re in college. With no one to cook meals and the cafeteria not always appetizing, fast food may feel like the best option to turn to, especially with more chains having dollar menus worthy of exploration. However, if you plan on staying healthy in college or at least keeping to your budget then fast food is not the way to go. It may be a dream to live on pizza alone, but before you know it the calories and the dollars will add up. Not to mention, a fast food diet will leave your body feeling sick in no time at all. If you’re an athlete, you may notice you’ve slowed down a bit, whereas less active students might feel fatigued or notice a weaker immune system. Plus, these foods are addictive, which means you’re going to want to eat them often and you’re probably going to gradually want to buy more and more items.

4. Know Your Body
Part of growing up is discovering what makes you tick. Food is a big part of this, so while you’re in college you may want to think about what your body needs and how you feel when you eat certain foods. There’s no cheat sheet to this either, as everyone’s body tends to work differently. However, there are a few things you can count on, in most cases. For instance, grease tends to be terrible for your skin and can really make you feel foggy and downright unhappy. Eggs are a great food if you’re in need of a boost for studying or you have a test to take. Grains are perfect for long days where you need the extra boost of energy. This food may be best when you have back to back classes all day and can’t catch a break to eat. For most people, sugar isn’t a great thing to keep in the system either. Too much sugar can lead to some major health problems down the line. Of course, you should experiment with adding and subtracting foods from your diet to see which foods you should be eating. This alone will help you cut down on spending, as you will be able to plan the most efficient diet plan for you.

5. Get a Griddle
Dorm rooms can be small and if you don’t have a shared kitchen cooking for yourself may seem near impossible. Microwaves take up way too much space as do indoor burners, so one solution to this crisis is the griddle. This flat top cooking machine will allow you to make some of the best breakfast food in the dorm. You’ll be able to whip up pancakes, eggs and even the almighty bacon for all of your friends in no time. Of course, that’s not its only specially. Griddles are perfect for hamburgers, steaks, chicken, grilled veggies and the ever so famous grilled cheese. You should be able to whip up your favorite cheap meals without skipping a beat. The best thing is, the griddle will fit on your desk when in use and can be moved to under the bed, a corner or just about anywhere else thanks to its slim design. They’re really easy to clean too and you can purchase attachments to make all sorts of other foods.

6. Microwaveable Meals
If you have room for a microwave, then it could be a valuable alley when it comes to your food situation. This doesn’t mean that you get to eat ramen every single day though. The microwave opens up a world of possibilities that will allow you to enjoy a wider range of nutritious foods. Today, there’s a lot of frozen meals on the market. Some of these aren’t the best for you, while others are oddly health conscious. Simply read the labels and go from there. Another great concept that has become popular recently is one mug meals. There’s a whole lot of recipes out there that can be cooked in one simple mug. From macaroni and cheese to your favorite desserts, you name it there’s a recipe. If you don’t have a mug, or you want to make a big portion, don’t sweat it as some of these meals can be made in a bowl too. You can also make steamed vegetables, spaghetti and rice in the microwave, which will make life easy when you’re trying to keep it on a budget.

7. Handle Stress
When it comes to budgeting money for food, stress can really put a wrench in the plans. Stress eating can cause you to make poor decisions on the food you buy, or it could cause you to eat more. If you find your grocery bill growing in price, then you might want to stop and evaluate how bad your stress levels are. You can easily reduce your stress levels though, especially with your college campus as a resource. Try going to the gym or taking a yoga class to work out the tension. If you’re still having trouble, then talk to a guidance counselor or your room advisor. There’s also lots of places to go on campus for calm meditation. Crafts are another simple way to take away stress that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. With this problem under control, you should be able to minimize your calorie intake.

8. Take Vitamins
If you’re living on a ramen diet, or something equally as bad for you then it might be time to consider vitamins. Highly processed foods rarely have the nutrients you need to survive. In fact, you can become malnourished by eating them, which will really put pressure on your studies and your livelihood. A simple multi-vitamin is probably one of the best routes to take, but if you know your body needs something else then don’t worry about going there too. Most schools will cover this problem in the on-campus health center, so try to make an appointment there. Sometimes, the on-call doctors will even prescribe the vitamins to you so you can get them for next to nothing. If you do need to buy the vitamins, then consider doing so at a bulk store so you can get more for your money.

9. Avoid Vending Machines
Vending machines can be a huge trap when it comes to college students. They can be found outside of classes, near door rooms and around just about any activity. They’re filled with junk food and sodas, unless you’re lucky enough to have the salad vending machines. Plus, the prices have been heavily escalated, so they earn more money. The thing is, they’re convenient. So, a lot of the time hungry students will pay the extra cost for the junk food just to satisfy their hunger or thirst. This can be a quick way to lose a lot of money though. Luckily, it’s easy to avoid the vending machine’s call by simply carrying a drink and a snack with you. Your favorite snacks can easily be bought in bulk and a simple reusable water bottle will ensure you’re covered for the day. With snack time taken care of, you can save your quarters for doing laundry.

10. Sign Up For a Meal Card
A lot of students end up avoiding the meal card plan for their school because they think the food will be gross or simply that they could eat cheaper without a card. Although if you do plan on living on a ramen diet it might actually be cheaper, but buying healthy foods will never beat the price of the meal card. These cards allow you to eat one to three meals in the cafeteria a day, so even if you want to go with the cheaper one meal a day plan, you will at least get the option of one healthy meal per day. Most cafeterias have a wide assortment of foods too, so you won’t be stuck eating the same garbage you were fed in high school. In fact, you may find that the food is sometimes even appetizing. If your scholarship or student grants will cover your meal plan then it’s a no-brainer move anyway. You won’t want to be shy on meals after the first couple of weeks of school because it will make concentration a major problem.

Being a student is tough enough as it is, so don’t make eating your worst enemy. There’s many ways to enjoy your meals without having to fork over a lot of money, so stop stressing. With these ten tips you’ll have more options than oriental or chicken ramen, which will make your life as a student a little more manageable.

The winter months are some of the best times to get in a little birdwatching. In fact, January 5 was actually National Bird Day, so you may want to get in a little birdwatching to give the special day a late celebration. Birdwatching can be an expensive hobby, if you let be. However, there are many ways you can save money on this relaxing hobby. Between DIY tips and avoiding the hype of some of the trips and equipment, you should feel like a pro in your hobby without having to spend money like one. Now, you can see more birds and learn about them without worrying about how your free time fun is affecting your pocket book.

1. Start Locally
If you’re interested in birdwatching, then you’ve probably heard a lot of magical stories about some of the trips you can take to get your birding started on a more professional level. Of course, you have probably also heard of people doing a Big Year or joining other competitions. If you’re interested in this aspect of birding then you may want to take a few step backs first. Before you get into the big competitions or spending lots of money on traveling, you may want to see the birds that your local area has to offer. You can easily find a list of birds that should be in your area, which can be your first challenge. When you can locate and identify these birds then move to a broader area. You don’t have to start off big though, as even birds in your hometown may keep you busy for quite some time. In fact, you may want to do a little research to see if there are local birdwatchers who may be able to send you in the right direction.

2. Buy Feeders
One of the main things you should consider if you plan on taking up birdwatching is getting yourself a few feeders. This is especially great for the birdwatcher that doesn’t have a lot of time to kill. A bird feeder will help you lure in the birds from your area, so you can get to know the species and habits before you broaden your birdwatching horizons. You may want to do a little research in regards to bird feeders though. Different birds like different foods and have different needs when it comes to eating and hideouts. By understanding the birds that typically live or migrate through your area you’ll be able to bring in more birds to admire. There’s lots of bird feeder tutorials online, or you can save even more money by building your own using recyclables or scrap wood.

3. Keep it Simple
Often, when people take up birdwatching they think they need to buy all of the top of the line gear in order to enjoy and be successful in the hobby. This isn’t necessarily the truth though. In fact, if you’re just starting out you may want to begin with a simple bird guide. This will allow you to work towards identifying birds in your area, so you can see if the hobby is actually something you want to try out. As you progress, you may want to move up to a cheaper pair of binoculars. Of course, if you really get into the activity then you might want to continue to upgrade your birdwatching equipment, but be leery of high tech items that might not be useful at your level of birdwatching. Of course, you should also not buy items you’re never going to use. For most, a pair of binoculars, guide book and, perhaps, a camera should suffice to keep the hobby interesting.

4. Buy Used
If you do plan on going all out when it comes to the equipment, then you might want to consider buying your items used. One quick place to check Is thrift stores or pawn shops as you may be able to find binoculars for next to nothing. There are also many birdwatching websites that sell old equipment that was used for birdwatching in the past. Of course, you can also check out most technology websites, to see if you can find a good deal. Many will actually sell refurbished cameras at a great price. If you have friends that birdwatch, then you might want to talk to them about the best places to buy equipment. They may even be able to offer you a pair of their used binoculars for a good price. Guide books can also be bought used and generally won’t cost more than a few dollars when purchased this way.

5. Download Field Guides
One of the best assets you can have while birdwatching is a field guide. These guides are designed to offer you pictures of birds, details and typical locations that should help you out while you’re identifying the birds you see. Of course, the guides can cost a pretty penny if you buy them in a paper format. One simple way to cut the cost is to actually download the guides. If you have an ereader or tablet then this may help you keep your guide with you at all times. Not to mention, it could make navigating through the contents a lot easier too. The older the guide you buy, the more money you’ll save. In fact, some websites may actually provide you with older guides for free. Generally, you don’t have to worry about missing out on information when it comes to these guides either, because most species are included and their details rarely change.

6. Check Out a Conservatory
If you’re not really sure where you should start working on your birdwatching hobby then a conservatory, or even a zoo, may be a great start. These generally have a wide selection of birds for you to learn about and they are generally cost effective. In fact, many conservatories are designed to assist injured animals or work hard to provide donations to bird related charities. By visiting one of these locations you may even be able to talk to a professional about birds and find out where you should be looking in your local area. This will certainly be a big inspiration when it comes to learning about the species and the things that may entice them to spend more time around you. Of course, this is also a great place to take a closer look at birds that are a rarity. You may gain a whole new appreciation for these creatures, which is sure to make your new hobby something you’ll treasure even more.

7. Join a Group
You may not believe it, but there’s probably a birdwatching group in your community that you never even knew existed. Birdwatching groups are a great opportunity to spend time with other people who share the same interests as you. Not to mention, these groups can provide you with resources and tips that may otherwise cost you a small fortune. When it comes down to it, a group is a great way to even get started in the hobby as you’ll have locals who have already spent time birdwatching in the area and will know how to guide you to find what youre looking for in the hobby. Plus, they may be able to point you in the right direction when it comes to sales on equipment, or what brands are best for birdwatching. Apart from that, birdwatching groups often travel together, which can help cut down on the price of trips. If you can’t find a birdwatching group in your area, then look online. You may not be able to meet with people face to face, but you should be able to keep in touch with a group that has similar interests, which will boost your love of the hobby anyway.

8. Subscribe to a Magazine
One way to keep up with the birding world is to subscribe to a magazine. This allows you to check out some of the best items on the market and will give you technical stats that will keep you moving forward with your hobby. Of course, one of the best things about birdwatching magazines is they often have hints on migration patterns, news about new species and exciting stories from birdwatchers who went the extra mile to see a rare bird. Other than that, these magazines are great for hints about saving money on birding trips, especially trips based on current migration patterns. It will also give you a chance to learn about species you may not get to see. Generally, these magazines don’t cost an arm and a leg and will certainly keep you inspired and entertained while you enjoy the hobby.

9. Cheap Flights
If you really take to the hobby then you may find yourself looking at plane tickets to further your fulfilment. There’s lots of reasons to travel when it comes to birdwatching, so you may end up spending too much money if you’re not careful. You should always look at a variety of travel sites before you commit to a price. You may even be able to get a deal on standby flights if you’re not on a certain schedule. If you’re birdwatching in a specific place for pleasure, then your travel guide should be able to help you out with your flight and find you the best possible deal. Traveling with a group, or for a convention can be a different story though as many conventions will offer group flights for a reduced price. The key is to leave no stone unturned when you look for your flight.

10. Online Courses
Pursuing knowledge of birds might be something you’re interested in if you really take to birdwatching. You can pay a bundle on books and courses for this information, but there’s actually quite a few online courses that you can take for free. This is sure to make your time learning more enjoyable and might even allow you to pick up more information on your favorite species. You can find courses on birds, how to use binoculars or even photographing birds with ease. The best thing about these courses is you can work at your own pace, so you won’t end up falling behind or dropping the course altogether. Apart from being free, you also don’t have to worry about graded work, which will give you the freedom to enjoy the courses.

Birdwatching is a great hobby that will offer you insight into the natural world, while providing you with plenty of exercise. These ten tips will help you make your birdwatching hobby go a bit further. Whether you want to keep is casual or go pro, you should be able to find a healthy balance for your life and budget without having to sacrifice the fun you have with this amazing hobby.

Now that the weather actually does look a bit like winter, you may be wondering how you can keep your home, property and family safe from all the hazards that winter brings. For some, this means spending a small fortune for inspections, tools and other precautionary methods that aren’t always necessary. There are a few winter tricks you can perform on your property to help keep everyone safe and healthy during the cold season though. With a few DIY and low cost alterations, winter will look a little less scary. Now, you can sit back and comfort of the warmth of your home as you enjoy the beautiful scenery from the window.

1. Use Ice Repellent
One of the biggest hazards during the winter season is the ice that seems to form just about anywhere. Every year thousands of accidents are called in because of falls due to ice. Ice repellent can be a huge life saver to aid in this problem. You can buy the product in stores for a reasonable price, or you can take the DIY road by using cooking spray. Simply spray the repellent on the sidewalk and stairs before it’s supposed to snow, or every night before the temperature drops and you should be set to go for quite some time. Also, you can use this amazing ice repellent to cover your snow shovel. This will make shoveling snow and breaking up ice a bit easier in the wee hours of the morning when you’re trying to get to work. If you have trouble with ice forming on your car, then you might want to stock up on vinegar. This can actually help get rid of the ice in no time, especially on your windows, so you can get back to enjoying the warmth of the heater.

2. Clear Gutters
If there’s one thing that can really destroy your home, it’s definitely the gutters during a freeze. That’s why keeping your gutters clear during the winter is the best way to keep your home safer. If you end up leaving your gutters unattended then the water and leaf combination may end up attracting pests that you don’t want in or around your home. That’s the least of your problems though. You want to make sure that your gutters are free for moving water to flow, so that when it does snow the water won’t be trapped on top of the gutters and roof. This can cause major damage to the home and will leave you struggling to repair the problem when it’s freezing cold. If you need to get rid of ice in the gutters during the cold, then simply fill panty hose with salt and leave it on top of the gutters. It should help eliminate the buildup.

3. Trim Trees
There’s no doubt about it, trees are beautiful. Whether they’re in full bloom or covered in ice, there’s something fantastic about seeing a lovely tree. However, the trees in your yard can be dangerous to you and your family, as well as your property, if you don’t trim them before the winter months. If your tree is older or has thin limbs, then you could be looking at a ticking time bomb. Before it gets too cold, you want to eliminate branches that look as if they won’t be able to hold the weight of the ice. Other branches that should be removed are those that hang over the home, common walk and play areas or other expensive property. This will prevent a limb from breaking off onto your roof or an unsuspecting passerby. With the tree branches prepped for winter, you won’t have to worry about making an insurance claim or paying out of pocket for damages caused by your tree over a long freeze period. Not to mention, you can dry out the branches you do cut and use them as firewood to help cut back on heating costs

4. Watch the Pipes
Another thing you won’t want to deal with in the cold months is a busted pipe. However, this can be a common occurrence if you aren’t careful. If you have outdoor pipes then you may want to cover them in foam in order to protect them during major temperature drops. Most modern homes won’t have this problem though. One key way to avoid the entire problem is to keep your thermostat set at 60 degrees or higher. This will help prevent the pipes from freezing altogether. Of course, if you don’t want to waste a small fortune on heating then leave your tap running slightly. A few drops of water will help cut back on this. If you’re worried about the water then set up a bucket to catch it. You can later use this to flush the toilet, or for other household cleaning purposes. If you do end up with frozen pipes, then use a space heater to warm them before they burst. This should take care of the problem before you have to spend a small fortune to fix the pipes in the home.

5. Generator/Solar Power
Power outages can be a big problem in the winter, especially if your city doesn’t keep trees trimmed near the electric poles. If you don’t want to have to deal with the problems of not having heat in the winter, then you might want to invest in a backup generator. This won’t cost too much to run for a short time and will keep the home warm and lit when you need power the most. Of course, if you’re not cool with keeping your thermostat low then you may want to consider getting solar power. Normally, you won’t have to pay too much extra to keep the house warm using this form of power, unless you like the feeling of living in a sauna. In fact, throughout most of the year, you should be able to spend next to nothing on power thanks to the solar energy. You may even get money back at the end of the year if you use less power than your solar panels produce.

6. Avoid the Dam
When it comes to winter, one of your worst nightmares is the ice dam. If you’ve never heard this term before then it basically refers to an icy nightmare that can really leave you hating winter as your roof caves in. The best thing about ice dams are they’re totally avoidable. One way to avoid the ice dam is unclear gutters, as mentioned before, which offers a few remedies to help avoid full collapse. All the same, one element of the ice dam that people often overlook is the heating in your home. This is where you can really get into trouble. Basically, the heat coming from your home causes the snow on the roof to melt while the ice around the gutters forces the water to stay in place. One way to avoid this problem is to keep your attic cold during the winter months. You may also want to make sure your insulation is working, to help keep heat in the home anyway. If you want to take extra precautions, then use a roof rake to help the snow move off of the roof before it has a chance to melt.

7. Use Weather Stripping
One of the worst parts of winter is dealing with the drafts that the cold wind brings in. This can be a huge problem for your heating bill. One of the worst things about drafts is they help push the warm air in your home up, which could contribute to an ice dam. So, you may want to go around the home and start weather stripping everything before the seriously cold weather begins. This will allow you to cut down on the heat you use, so you can worry less about the electric or gas bills for the home. Luckily, weather stripping doesn’t cost a whole lot and is easy to install on your own.

8. Maintain Car
Keeping up with your car is one of the best things you can do during the winter months. This will not only save you a lot of money, but it will ensure you have a car in case of an emergency. One thing to consider every day is the air pressure in your tires. The cold air can lower the pressure in your tires, which could leave you with a flat if you’re not careful. You should also keep your car fueled up, just in case you need to go somewhere or travel slowly on the roads during an emergency. Keeping the fluids in the car topped off is also a must to prevent damage to the vehicle. Fresh windshield wipers could also be a huge help during the winter months, especially if the area gets a lot of snow. Also, you should keep a first aid kit and flairs in the car in case there is an issue while you’re driving.

9. Check For Safety
This is probably one of the most important aspects of your winter precautions. Since we tend to use natural gas more in this time of the year and the house is primarily closed, it can be quite dangerous. You should make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector and that its batteries are still current, in order to avoid tragic accidents. Another must is to check your fire alarms. It’s always best to replace batteries and do a quick test to make sure they’re running properly. Your fire extinguisher should also be up to date, just in case of an emergency. Apart from that, it might be wise to have your home inspected and fireplace cleaned before you end up building a fire to keep warm.

10. Watch Your Foundation
It might be wise to try to check out the foundation of your home before the snow begins. You should look for cracks or other abnormalities that might become worse over the major storms. These cracks can let in moisture that could do a pretty good number on your home, particularly when it comes to mold. So, if you catch the problem to begin with you should be able to fix it on your own for fairly cheap. In order to prevent constant moisture on your home’s foundation you may want to shovel snow away from the home. Your gutters can also play a huge role in this problem, so keep them clean and in good repair.

Winter can be one of the worst times of the year for home repair, so you may want to avoid dealing with it altogether. These ten tips will help you cut down on the need to constantly monitor your home while adding to the security and frugality of the home. Before you know it, winter will be over and you’ll be able to enjoy a secure home that isn’t in dire need to repair due to the poor weather.

If you’re keeping up with your New Year’s resolution, then you might be looking at a very rough few weeks. Quitting a smoking habit can be one of the toughest things to do, especially if you’re not mentally prepared. Many people try to throw money at the problem thinking that it will help ease the pain and frustration of quitting, but often this doesn’t help in the slightest bit. There are many things you can do to help yourself quit that doesn’t involve spending a lot of money though. With these ten suggestions, you should help find the courage and patience to stop smoking without having to spend a fortune on patches and medications that might not even help. So, take a deep breath and get ready to kick your bad habit for good.

1. Talk to Your Doctor
Over the counter patches and supplements can lead you down a dead end when it comes to quitting. Not to mention, they cost a small fortune and the price tag will only continue to grow while you try to slowly cut back on the amount that you smoke. Rather than throwing more and more money on the problem, you might want to make an appointment to talk to your doctor. If you’ve been with your doctor for a while then he or she probably knows quite a bit about your health and should be able to offer some suggestions that will help your body prepare for the change. These tips could really be a game changer, as each person’s body reacts differently to the change. Your doctor may also be able to find you a support group. Last but not least, if you think a prescription is the answer to your problem then it might be wise to ask. Usually, if the medication is prescribed, health insurance companies don’t have a problem covering most, if not all, of the costs in order to avoid further health problems.

2. Change Your Diet
If you’re craving a cigarette after you eat, then you’re probably indulging in the wrong diet for the moment. Soda, tea, coffee, alcohol and greasy foods all enhance the flavors of cigarettes, which could make you want to smoke more than ever. Luckily, there’s some foods and drinks that will make your cigarette taste terrible, so you might want to eat them more often or at least add them to the end of the meal or snack to help fight the need for an after dinner smoke. These foods, of course, include fruits and vegetables. It might be best to go on a diet that includes these foods anyway as they will nourish your body and make you feel healthier, which might ease the pain of withdrawals. Milk is another great thing to drink if you’re quitting smoking. Milk helps build up mucus and will make cigarettes taste terrible. So, if you have to have a cup of coffee or tea then you might consider adding milk to the beverage to detour the craving. Last but not least, water is a must when you’re quitting smoking. Try to drink at least the recommended amount, so your body can flush out toxins.

3. Join a Group
Whenever you make a big life change, it’s always good to have a support group around you. Friends and family are always great to talk to, but if they haven’t been through what you have then they might not always provide the support you need. Most communities will offer free support groups through churches or community centers. A simple search online or a phone call should allow you to find a group. Of course, it might take a couple of meetings to see if the group is right for you. If not, there’s typically more than one support group in an area, as quitting smoking is quite common. Of course, if you don’t have the time or need for a face to face group, there’s lots of online groups that can help you out. In some cases, these are even better because they allow you 24/7 access to support. Of course, joining a local and online group might be the most efficient way to get passed smoking.

4. Workout
If you’re having trouble taking your mind off of smoking, then it might be time to get active. Working out allows you to keep your entire body busy, so you won’t have time to go through the withdrawals of smoking, including the habits you created when you were a smoker. Exercise boosts the endorphins in your body while allowing you to focus on one thing at a time. Running is supposed to be especially good for those who want to quit smoking. Plus, the cardio exercises will help you heal your lungs a lot faster, which is important in the quitting process. If you can, take up a physical activity for hobby. Even if it’s something slow paced, like hiking or yoga, you’ll still be doing your body a lot of favors, especially as it breaks through the desires of smoking.

5. Meditate
Meditation has been in the media a lot lately due to its amazing healing properties. This is one of the reasons why meditation is a key to helping you kick your smoking habit for good. Many people tend to want to smoke more when they’re under a lot of stress, which is something meditation helps you release. For decades, people have you using anti-smoking tapes to help them cut the habit, but when you look at the core of these tapes, the goal is to make you want to stop smoking through soothing voices and a hypnotic message. When you think about it, these tapes were merely encouraging meditation, which is an action you can do for free without the tapes. The best thing about meditation is it allows you to fixate on an idea, so you can make it a reality. Thus, with a clear mind and a goal set in stone, your meditation time will ensure you work through your smoking cravings.

6. Keep Your Hands Busy
One of the main problems smokers have is the fact that their hands often go with nothing to do, whereas when they were smoking their hands were busy. This habit is enough to make a lot of smokers pick up the habit again. Rather than let your hands go without, you should try to find something to keep them busy. One easy way is to carry around a pen or pencil with you. When you feel the need to smoke you can pull out the device and hold it or play with it until the need goes away. One of the favored choices by most ex-smokers is a lollypop though. This helps recreate the action of smoking by allowing you to keep something in your hands as well as your mouth. This distraction may be just enough to get you through the craving.

7. Avoid Smokers
If you did a lot of social smoking, then you might want to reconsider your next get-together as being around smokers can make you want to smoke again. Between the smell of the smoke and the sight of everyone smoking, it’s very easy to fall back into the habit, which could end up forcing you to go back to the habit. Sometimes, it’s for the best to cancel social engagements when you’ll be around smokers. This is especially the case during work breaks as you might end up in the smoker’s circle out of sheer habit. You should, of course, let those around you know that you’re trying to stop smoking so they know not to bring up the subject of smoking around you and so they don’t begin to smoke in front of you. If smokers can’t stop smoking around you then it might be time to reconsider who you spend time with, at least until you feel like you’re in the clear of the cravings. However, being around smokers in general can cause you to go back to smoking, even if you’ve stopped smoking for quite some time.

8. Create Schedules
One way to cut the cravings is to keep yourself so busy that you forget all about wanting to smoke. Sometimes, life will settle this for us as work, home, family and friends can truly take up a lot of time. However, you might want to begin scheduling your day until you’ve gotten past most of the cravings. For instance, if you can, pick up a hobby on your days off. Trying something new will make you feel refreshed, which can help take your mind off of the habit. If you don’t have a hobby you’re interested in, then try volunteering somewhere. You may be surprised as to how much this will help you cut down on the need to smoke. Of course, this might also be a great time to tackle a big project in the house, such as cleaning out the garage or going through your closet. As long as your mind is set on something and you’re busy you should be able to make it through the task.

9. Stay Stress Free
Although it’s easier said than done, keeping your mind stress free is one of the best ways to avoid going back to smoking. It’s hard to avoid stress altogether, but taking the necessary precautions whenever you can will do a world of good. For instance, don’t take on the extra workload at the office unless you absolutely have to. If you have a stressful visit with relatives coming up, then find something that will keep everyone feeling peaceful. Small stressors can add up too though. You might want to ask for help around the house more and steer clear of people who add a little extra drama to your life. If you’re able to keep the unnecessary stress out of your life, then you should be able to work past the cravings until you can handle the stress levels for efficiently.

10. Know Your Reasons
At times, you’re going to feel as if you don’t want to stop anymore. So, it’s important to have a list of reasons as to why you’re quitting nearby. You may want to come up with more than it just being your New Year’s resolution though because often this motivation isn’t going to help. One thing that might help is to print out pictures of diseased lungs and a series of ailments you can get from smoking. A list about your family and friends may also come in handy. To make things even better, you might want to ask loved ones for a letter expressing their desires for you to quit. This is especially great when it comes from your children. Goals in life, including achievements with health and exercise are also important. Before you know it, you’ll probably have a pretty hefty list of reasons why you’re willing to go through the struggle to quit smoking.

When it comes to ditching a habit, it takes a lot of hard work and struggle. Before you know it though, you’ll be on the road to success, which will allow you to feel proud about what you’ve accomplished. These ten tips should help lead you down the right path, so you can quit smoking without spending a small fortune on products marketed to make you think moving on will be easier.

Although the shopping season is technically over, there’s still a few things you may want to check out in the month of January. Since the holidays are finally out of the way, you should be able to concentrate more on things you need and want for your family and the home. Luckily, January is the month to splurge a little in these areas, so you don’t have to feel guilty over spending a bit more money on items you’ve had your eye on for a while. With savings as great as these, you may fall in love with January even more. So, grab your cash and get ready to save because January is the month to make your dreams comes true.

1. HDTV
A lot of people believe that Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the best times to grab a new TV. Although this is sometimes the case, it often isn’t always the best time to splurge in this area. In fact, January brings more HDTV sales than any other month, which will be good for your wallet and your entertainment. This is largely due to the fact that February is typically when the latest models of TVs hit the market. Thus, stores want to clear out as much as they can when it comes to their old stock. For last year’s models, you’ll probably find some pretty hefty savings. Of course, if you’re looking to get a bit more in regards to savings then you might want to go for an even older model. One key thing to do before shopping is to do a bit of research on the newer models vs the older models. You might find that the older models are very similar to the newer ones, which will make your savings go even further.

2. Tax Services
Tax season is rapidly approaching, even if it makes you cringe your teeth when you think about it. Although it might be hard to remove the frustration from this period of time, you can easily reap some benefits if you plan to spend money on tax services in the month of January. To begin with you should start looking at tax software. This will certainly help you get more out of your tax period and may even allow you to finish up your taxes from the comfort of your own home. Generally, this tax software can help you file taxes, but you can also find some software that will help you keep track of the money you need throughout the year which will help you big time in the new year. This software is especially important for those that run their own business or are freelancers. Apart from software, you may be able to find accountants and other tax experts that will help you through the process. Typically, these experts won’t charge as much as they would during the busy season because their time is booked.

3. Winter Clothes
Winter isn’t over just yet, which makes this deal even more fabulous. Although the cold is just beginning in some places, most retailer are ready to clear out their winter stock, so they can make room for the new spring line which will be added to stores next month. This is a great victory for you if you’re looking to buy a new coat, or you simply can’t get enough sweaters. This sale is also great for stocking up for next year, especially if you have children. Try shopping for a size or two larger, so you’ll be ready for the cold when it returns next year. This year’s sales should be even better than last year’s though, simply because winter took its time. Since it was still a little on the warm side in December, less people bought for the cold. This means you’ll not only have a better selection, but retailers will also be more desperate when it comes to moving the stock out of the way.

4. White Sales
January is known for it’s White Sale, which includes a wide variety of options. One of the most popular items to buy during this time of the year is towels. It’s always great to start the year out with a fresh set of towels and with prices taking a 50% dive, you’ll be ready to stock the whole home. Sheets and other linens are another must when it comes to the White Sale. In fact, just about any textile on your list will take a nosedive in price, which means you can totally redecorate your home for next to nothing. The sale isn’t all about the fabric though. Window treatments are also included in this annual sale, so make sure you check out prices on window tinting for your car and home. You won’t be disappointed when the warm summer days return.

5. Workout Gear
Getting in shape is one of the top New Year’s resolutions for people all over the world. Retailers are pretty clued into this major resolution too, which is why workout gear is typically on sale during the month of January. The sale offers a lot of workout clothing, such as track suits, headbands, base layers and running shoes. These items tend to cost a pretty penny on their own, so you might want to grab a few different items in your size and maybe a size or two smaller to help with the motivation process. Clothes aren’t the only thing you should look into though. For starters, there will be huge sales on workout equipment, especially home gyms and treadmills. Weights, workout DVDs and other accessories will also save you quite a bit of money during this month. You should also check out the price on fitness devices that monitor your heart rate, sleep and steps per day. Finally, if you really want to spend some time in the gym this year, then you might want to start looking around for the gym of your dreams because most gyms will be offering discounts for a year’s membership during this month.

6. Early Valentine’s Day Gifts
You might not want to think about another holiday just yet, but the early bird does always get the bird. In this case, if you go ahead and order your Valentine’s Day gifts then you might save a pretty penny. Many stores are already putting out Valentine’s Day items, so you might want to check the prices of these items so you can have a little fun for the big day without spending the money. However, if you truly want to save then you might want to go online and order your gifts. Often, many stores will offer amazing deals on bouquets and chocolates before the Valentine’s Day rush happens. These items can be bought and paid for in advance and later delivered during the big day. This will go ahead and get your planning out of the way, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting your someone special if life gets too busy. Also, you could talk to restaurants to see if you can reserve a table this early, so you won’t have to miss out on a special dinner.

7. Furniture
A lot of companies like to bring out new furniture in February, which like other items on this list, means January is the time to rake in the savings on those items. You should be able to find just about everything you need in regards to furniture on sale during January, which is perfect if you’re planning on remodeling or you have a new home to furnish. Before you spend a small fortune on new furniture, you may want to research the average price of the item, to make sure the deal you’re looking at isn’t just a small reduction. You might also want to shop online to see if there’s any deals that are worth more than local deals. Often, you can get the shipping waived on these items, which will come in handy when you tally your savings.

8. Gift Cards
If you want a great selection on gift card exchanges then now is definitely the time to look around. Since the holidays are over, many people are trading the gift cards they didn’t want for cards they do want, which means there will be a lot more gift cards up for grabs. Also, if you like to buy used gift cards for a lower price then you’ll be happy to know that many of these will be available too. Usually, the website checks to make sure there is a proper balance before selling it to you, but like all purchases like this there is a bit of a risk. Before you choose to buy these items, make sure you do some research on the website. Basic review sites should cover most problems, but running the name of the website through a search engine should also bring up any problems customers have had.

9. Motorcycles
During the winter months, sales on motorcycles tend to drop quite a bit, which means you will be able to get an outstanding deal on a motorcycle. Since no one wants to operate a motorcycle during the icy months, a lot of retailers really have to try hard to make a sale, which will work out in your favor. The best thing about buying a motorcycle is they’re more ecofriendly than your average car. Thus, you may be able to get a tax deduction thanks to the bike. Plus, in most states, you can ride in the carpool lane if you’re on a motorcycle, which will help save money in fuel costs alone. You should always take a safety course and do research before you decide to buy a motorcycle though as if you’re not prepared for one then it might be a waste of money even if it’s a great price.

10. Video Games
Generally, there is a surge in videogames during the holiday season, which can be pretty stressful if you’re a gamer. The games generally begin making an appearance around October and by the time December rolls around there’s too many on the wish list to even count on two hands. Although it may be tempting to buy these games the moment they come out, it’s also wise to let the games wait for a little while. After the holiday season is over, the games usually take a price cut, which will allow you to get them at a more affordable price. Of course, during this time, you’ll also be able to check out some reviews. You might also try renting the game or borrowing it from a friend to see if it’s something you actually want to plan. Often enough, the game simply doesn’t live up to its hype, which will allow you to forget about the extra expense.

The month of January is a great time to spend a little money. These savings are sure to help you leave your home looking and feeling comfortable. Not to mention, it’s the perfect time to stock up on some of the gifts you missed out on during the holidays. With all of the great savings, you’ll feel over the moon about your finances.

For many, the concept of saving money is the New Year’s resolution they’d love to excel at. With our economy just making a comeback from one of the worst recessions in U.S. history, it may seem like saving is not only an option but a necessity. This may scare many, but there’s many solutions you can try to ensure your savings will grow substantially over the new year. Luckily, most of these tips won’t force you to change your lifestyle a lot, nor will they cause you to go without. In fact, saving may be a fun way to gain control over your finances, so you can get back to feeling secure with the money you have.

1. Swap Banks
It’s easy to stick with the same bank year in and year out without ever considering if the bank has your best interest in mind. There’s lots of great banks out there, which are willing to work with customers to help their savings grow. Before you begin your savings, you may want to consider shopping around to see which banks offer an interest rate that will help your savings grow bigger in the upcoming year. You may also want to check to see if your banks rates will be changing in the upcoming year too, so you’ll know how to handle the change in the best possible way. If you’re truly comfortable with the checking options of your bank, then you can always keep your spending money there. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having more than one bank account. In fact, it may even help you forget about the money you put into savings. Simply move your savings into the account with greater interest and then let the money do the talking for you. If you can avoid touching the money over the period of a year, you should be able to rejoice over your success when 2017 rolls around.

2. Keep the Change
We live in a primarily digital world, which is tough when it comes to saving some items. In 2016, you might want to consider pulling out cash to do all of your shopping. Carrying around cash has many great benefits, but using it to save money is one of the best. When you shop with cash, there’s a pretty good chance you’re going to get coins back in return. When this happens when you shop with debit and credit, the coins remain in your account so you can spend them later on. However, if you want to save while using cash, then simply put all of your coins in a jar or a piggy bank. When the item is filled up then open it up and you’ll find a pretty good chunk of money that you never even missed in the first place. This is sure to help you will fundraisers for new items or even a vacation. Of course, you could continue on with the savings by taking the change straight to the bank.

3. Weekly Challenge
If it takes a competition to get you up and moving, then the weekly challenge may be your dream way to save. The most common weekly challenge is to add a $1 into savings for every week of the year. So, the most you will ever have to put back in a week is $52, which doesn’t seem like a whole lot to begin with! You can do this challenge by working forwards or backwards though, depending on your finances. For instance, if you’re still recovering from the holiday season then you might want to start the challenge from the beginning by adding your first dollar to savings on the first week of the year. If you’re worried about having to part with so much money during the next holiday season, then you could always start with $52 on the first week and countdown until the new year. The choice is entirely yours! Either way you plan to add, you will have over $1,000 in savings by the end of the year. You can also come up with your own weekly challenges though. This can be anything from putting back $5 a week to cutting back on a luxury item a week and adding that money into savings.

4. Direct Deposit
For some people, parting with hard earned money can be as tough as nails. So, one of the best solutions to this dilemma is to let your employer do the parting for you. Most employers allow you to direct deposit your pay check. So, you might want to plan a meeting where you ask your employer to set a certain amount of each check back to go into a different account. This savings account will then have the chance to grow each pay period, without you having to see the money that goes into it. With your employer sending the money to the account for you, you can sit back and forget all about the money until you check your balance at the end of the year. This will allow the money to grow and you’ll already have budgeted the money out of your check anyway, so you won’t be tempted to spend it.

5. 401K
If you haven’t already hopped on the 401K bandwagon then you are certainly missing out on something good. You’ve probably heard people brag about their 401Ks and how fantastic their retirement plan is. Of course, this might seem like a total scam if you’re not sure what the 401K is. Luckily, its not a scam! Basically, your 401K allows you to set aside a certain amount of money from each check. This money goes into a special account that you can’t really touch, unless you’re willing to jump through a lot of hurdles. A lot of employers will even match the amount of money that a person puts into their 401K, which will make your money double, triple and quadruple in no time at all. So, you can finally grow money simply by setting aside as low as $20 a pay period.

6. $5 Bill Rule
Carrying cash can truly be a financial blessing in more ways than one. The $5 Bill rule is one of the best ways though, especially if you don’t like saving money. Basically, when you go shopping and break your larger bills, you usually end up with smaller bills that don’t really go far on their own. So, instead of spending these bills, you should go through your change and pull out every $5 bill. Normally, you won’t get one, but on the off chance that you do, take this bill and put in a hiding place, jar or piggy bank. When the year is over, you can pull the money from wherever you were storing and see how much you saved. You may be surprised as to how much you have! So why a $5 bill? Basically, they’re the least likely bill you’ll miss. $1 bills are way too common to save, unless you’re ready to go broke and $10 bills would interfere with your budget substantially.

7. Swear Jar
You’ve probably seen the infamous swear jar on movies and TV. Although this is usually added in for a little comic relief, you’d be surprised as to how much a swear jar can do to change the way you save. Bad habits are pretty much inevitable, so using something like a swear jar to train ourselves to stop is like killing two birds with one stone. The swear jar can even be set up with a price tag on each word. You may find your bad habit is really doing you in financially, which will certainly help you cut out the problem. Best of all, when you kick your bad habit, you’ll have a pretty good amount in savings to help celebrate. Of course, the swear jar doesn’t have to be for just swearing. You can use it to help you keep on a workout schedule, cut other bad habits or even teach the children that not doing their chores will cost them money.

8. Bank the Bonuses
If you work in a place that offers bonuses, then you probably rejoice and do a whole lot of splurging when the money kicks in. Even if the bonus is only $50-$100, you can actually do a lot of good with the money, rather than spending it on fleeting things. Next time you get a bonus, send it to the savings account, rather than letting it sit in your checking account. This will feel like the money was never there to begin with, so you won’t be out anything. If your bonuses are more frequent then you’ll be set to enjoy some amazing benefits when the year ends and your savings account is flourishing. Of course, if you don’t get bonuses then you may consider doing the same thing for your tax return, as a big boost like that could really allow you to reduce financial burden in the upcoming years.

9. Consider Rewards
It would be pretty much impossible to not shop throughout the entire year, especially when special occasions come up. If you do need to spend money shopping or traveling, then use a credit card that offers you lots of rewards. Although you will have to spend money on the interest for the items you purchase, you won’t have to deal with the money disappearing from your account, which could burden your finances. Also, when you shop with a rewards card, you’ll quickly earn cash back, which could help cut down on the interest you pay. Also, many cards will give you travel miles, which is perfect for emergency trips or much needed getaways. If you travel a lot for business, then you may also want to use a hotel credit card to help you will free stays or even great discounts on the price of your room.

10. Be Patient
At the end of the day, one of the best things you can do to save money is to cut down on spending money. Sure, we all want to shop and buy nice things, but often we don’t need them. Sometimes, we don’t even really want them. So, next time you find yourself looking at a big ticket item, or even something you don’t really need then exercise a little financial patience. Try to wait 30 days before you make the final decision to buy an item. You should also do research on the item and look at reviews, so that you understand the item before you buy it. If you’re worried about it disappearing, then put in on layaway to buy yourself a bit of time. You may find that you don’t really want or need the item after the waiting period is over. Or, you may even find a better deal that blows the original deal out of the water. If you do choose to skip the purchase, then toss the money you would have spent into your savings account. It’ll add up in no time at all.

Adding to your savings account in the New Year doesn’t have to be a huge burden, nor does it have to see impossible. With these ten tips you should be able to keep your savings account thriving next year, without ever having to stress about saving money. Before you know it, you’ll be hooked on savings and leading an overall more frugal lifestyle.

If the New Year is beckoning you to become a health fanatic, then you might be a little nervous about how you’re going to afford your new resolution. Health food can cost an arm and a leg, especially if you plan on buying food that actually taste good. Not to mention, the cost of workout equipment, gym memberships and everything else that goes along with being health. If you’re thinking like this, then it’s time to calm down and make the health thing a reality. There’s a lot of ways you can enjoy getting healthy without ever having to spend an arm and a leg on the lifestyle. So, whether you want to lose weight or improve your quality of living, these tips will help you meet your goals frugally.

1. Embrace Water
One of the biggest favors you can do for your body is to drink water. A lot of people live on a diet of sodas, energy drinks, juices and other high calorie and high sugar beverages. This can do so much damage to your body, in the long and short term. Apart from adding calories to your intake, the sugar content alone can really knock your body out of balance. The diet versions of these drinks are worse yet, due to the chemicals known to cause damage in the body. Water is a great low calorie option, which is totally natural for us to drink. Although it might not have the exciting taste of sweet or carbonated drinks, it does help flush the system and get rid of the nasty toxins that don’t do the body in favors. Apart from hydrating, water also helps in many other ways. For instance, if you drink a glass before each meal it will stop you from over-eating. Drinking a glass when you wake up kick starts your metabolism while drinking a glass before bed helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. Even drinking a glass of water before a shower will help reduce your blood pressure. So, cut the calories this year by keeping water your drink of choice.

2. Don’t Overcook
Sometimes, it’s hard to plan for a meal for just one, so we often overcook. It’s just as easy to overdo it when you’re cooking for a family or large group of people though. Rather than going a little overboard on the meal, try to keep portion sizes in mind. You don’t have to cook enough for everyone to eat massive amounts. This only encourages people to take more than they need, which leads to weight gain and other unhealthy behaviors. Even if you plan on whipping up a big batch of food and eating the leftovers later, you may be asking for trouble. Often, leftovers go forgotten, which could lead you to waste a whole lot of food and money. One of the few foods you should make in bulk batches is soup, but make sure you pull out the portions you’d like to freeze before serving the meal to your family.

3. Start a Garden
One of the best things you can do for you, your family and planet Earth is to start your own garden. A lot of people are intimated by growing their own food, but it’s actually easier than you think. Of course, some foods are easier to grow than others, but you may find that the best thing to do is to try your luck at many different types of food and see which produce works its magic for you. Even if you don’t grow the foods you eat more often, growing food can still help you learn new healthy recipes based on the foods that do grow. You may also be able to sell or trade your excess produce, which will also work in your favor when it comes to saving money in the grocery department. The best thing about growing your own food is you know you don’t have to worry about extra chemicals, which can harm your family. Plus, when children know where their food comes from and actively help in the process, they’re more than likely going to eat healthy.

4. Cut the Meat
Although eating or not eating meat is entirely a personal choice, you can improve your health by cutting down on the meat you do eat. Eating a lot of meat can mess with your digestive system and cause you many problems in the future. This is especially true when it comes to red meats as they are known to cause problems, including stomach cancer, if you eat them frequently. Of course, sausage and other processed meats have also been linked to major problems. Fish and other white meats aren’t bad for you and have many health benefits, but one of the best things you can do for your system is cut down on meat altogether. This is a great way to save money too as you can easily have a vegetable stir fry or salad night to help keep your system feeling strong. You don’t have to dedicate every night to a vegetarian dish either, rather choose a night or two a week to give your body a break from meat. There’s lots of great vegetarian and vegan recipes out there, so perhaps this year you’ll find something you love.

5. Avoid Bad Oils
Oils aren’t exactly the best for your body, but all oils aren’t made equal either. There’s actually some oils that are designed to help your body function better. So, the best thing you can do is research before you plan your meals. Often, people tend to rely on vegetable oil and poor oils like Crisco to cook most of their meals. This can really harm the body and cause problems like clogged arteries and weight gain. Although deep frying food isn’t great for you in the first place, you can make the food a bit better by using oils like peanut oil to cook. Many people tend to use olive oil on just about everything too, which doesn’t work out in many cases because the oil is only meant to heat at a certain temperature. So, before you cook with oil, look around and see what options you have. You may be pleasantly surprised.

6. Walk/Run
Forget the gym, one of the key ways to keep healthy is to simply walk and run. Walking is such an important part of the day because it gets the body functioning properly without making you feel worn out. If you work at a desk job then you probably see the importance of walking after a long day of sitting. Try to plan out a 30 minute walk each day, so you can burn excess calories and even relax a bit. You can always add more time to your morning walks as you feel comfortable. If you do a lot of sitting, you should try to get up and walk for a minute every 20 minutes. This will give your eyes a break and help keep your body healthy. Running is a crucial way to stay healthy too. A recent study found that running for as little as 50 minutes a day can substantially help your body. If you’re not fit enough for running at the moment, then begin by running for a minute at a time while walking for a few minutes. This routine will help you move into a more consistent run that will help you lose weight while improving your cardio system.

7. 20 Minute Rule
Again, office work is becoming one of the biggest contributors to health problems. It’s easy to spend all day sitting on your computer and returning home to sit some more. However, this isn’t doing your body any favors. If you can, stand up from where you’re sitting at least every 20 minutes. Of course, this doesn’t work in places like movie theaters, but it is easy to do when it comes to sitting at work or home. If you want to get more out of the 20 minute rule then practice a yoga move, walk up and down the stairs or do pushups or sit-ups every 20 minutes. Another 20 minute rule to keep in mind has to do with the computer. Many spend hours on end on the computer, which is almost a necessity in today’s busy world. However, if you can, stare at something at least 20 feet away, for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This will help prevent permanent eye damage.

8. Eat At Home
When it comes to food, the best place to get yours is straight from your house. It’s pretty much common knowledge that fast food isn’t going to do your body any favors. Even fast food salads can do a number on your health, which will leave you feeling bogged down and unmotivated when it comes to working out. Not to mention, most of these foods have addictive properties, which could leave you in more trouble than you think. Even sit down restaurants can cause problems in regards to your health, especially if the restaurant doesn’t let you know what’s in the food. When you cook from home you have absolute control over what you’re eating. This will allow you to alter your meals to suit your health, so you can get fit and healthy.

9. Portion Control
For many people, portions sizes are the main reason why they gain weight. It’s hard to know just how much you should be eating, especially when there’s lot of great items to eat sitting in front of you. One key rule here is to start the meal with a salad with light dressing, if any at all. This will ensure you get your vegetables for the meal and you begin to fill up. Drinking a glass of water before a meal can also help you with portion control as it will make you feel full before you overeat. Of course, keeping true to portions isn’t all that hard. Always remember that meat should be no bigger than the palm of your hand and starch should be no great than 1/4 of your plate. The rest of your place can be dedicated to vegetables. When you keep to these rules, you should find yourself losing weight and feeling healthier.

10. Active Hobbies
If you absolutely hate the gym and paying its fees, then you may want to consider transforming your hobbies into something that will help keep you fit. For starters, if you like any sports then that’s a great way to keep in shape. Everything from football to badminton can help you lead a healthier lifestyle without forcing you to pay a pretty penny. If sports aren’t your cup of tea then you might want to consider dancing, hiking, yoga or anything else that gets your body moving for some time. Some people even take to their gaming consoles to help keep them fit. You can easily buy workout routines like Tai Chi and other martial arts here, which allows so many to have fun while they exercise.

Keeping fit in 2016 will be one of the easiest and cheapest thing to do thanks to these simple tips. Before you know it, you’ll be leading a healthier lifestyle that will allow you to feel more confident about yourself as well as your ability to keep up with the challenges of the day.

There’s no doubt about it, with record heat waves over the Christmas holidays and other extreme weather and natural disasters occurring, it’s time for us to pay a little more attention to what’s going on with the planet. Although many want to do their best to make a change, it’s often hard to figure out what you can do on a tight budget. Thankfully, there’s a lot of simple things you can do to help the planet out, which won’t cost you a thing. Now you and your family can be a part of history as the country and world change to work with the Paris Agreement, so we can try to mend our planet.

1. Go Paperless
The average mailbox is filled with junk mail that the receiver never requested. Everything from credit card offers to advertisements that generally hit the trashcan faster than they were printed. This really adds up as the days pass us by, which means there’s a lot of unnecessary waste. Even if you recycle, it’s better to prevent the added printing from occurring in the first place. So, you might want to join the non-solicitation list. This tells companies not to send you their junk, so you can simply enjoy mail and help the planet. Not to mention, the temptation of the credit card offers will be totally gone, leaving you with more freedom. Junk mail isn’t the only problem though. If you’re still getting most of your bills through the mail, then you may want to see if you can get paperless bills and bank statements. Also, you might want to consider ditching your paper invitations to parties. Inviting people electronically has become more popular anyway. With all of the paper out of your life, your carbon footprint will be squeaky clean.

2. Change Your Shower Habits
After a hard day, it’s often difficult not to want to take a long relaxing shower. This can be a huge waste of water though, which is one problem that the world needs to deal with. One way to remedy this is to simply cut back on the time spent in the shower. You shouldn’t take more than 5 to 10 minutes to get clean. This is actually better for your skin too, as long exposure to hot water can dry out the body. If you’re having trouble keeping the time, then play music while you shower. You could also use the water only for rinsing the skin. Many people even tend to skip showers every other day, which is also great for the skin. Another option is to change the shower head. Sometimes your water company will upgrade you to a water efficient shower head if you meet the income requirement. They really aren’t incredibly expensive though. However, some of the newer models use next to nothing in regards to water, but feel as if they are using a lot, which is perfect for those who love long showers. Finally, if you can, skip the blow dryer and other accessories that use a lot of power.

3. Recycle
One of the best and easiest things you can do is go through your garbage. You’d be surprised by how many things you can reuse when you go through the trash you would typically throw away. Items like glass bottles and some containers can be reused around the home, which will come in handy for storing items and keeping your home well decorated. If you don’t have space for the items, then see what your county offers for actual recycling. Usually, you can recycle most things, but some counties do require you to do a bit of work for this. If you have spare material items in the home; such as furniture, clothes and toys then you might want to consider donating them instead of throwing them out. Even torn clothing can be mended to make someone else happy. Last but not least, not all food must be thrown in the garbage. Often you can use it for composting, which is perfect if you have a garden or a flowerbed.

4. Hit the Power
You might not realize how much damage you’re doing to the planet when you leave items running all of the time. Even if you’re really great about turning out the light when you leave a room and keeping the heating or cooling at a reasonable level, you’re still missing some major things in the home. One of the worst things is your cable box. It pulls a lot more power than you realize and it’s always on. In fact, even when you hit the power button on your devices, the items are still drawing power. This is a huge waste of electricity and money. So, one of the easiest ways to get rid of this problem is to unplug items when they’re not in use. Of course, it could be inconvenient to do this with television sets and so on, but it will save in the long run. Another option is to get a smart surge protector. This will actually cut off the flow of electricity to items that aren’t working. Although these items are a bit pricier than regular surge protectors, they can help save you more money than you’d expect.

5. Laundry
In this day and age, it’s really difficult to find the time to do laundry by hand. Although this would be the best way to save energy, it’s not exactly realistic. There are things you can do to cut down on your carbon footprint in regards to your washing machine and dryer though. For starters, you should shop for energy efficient appliances. These use very little water and power, so you won’t have to stress about that. No matter what kind of washer you have, you can always wash everything on cold if you want to save some money. Of course, one of the easiest ways to cut back in regards to laundry is to hang your clothes out to dry. This eliminates an appliance from the picture, which is sure to make you and planet Earth a bit happier.

6. Commute
One area you can really change when it comes to your carbon footprint is your morning and afternoon commute. It doesn’t matter if you’re planning to go to work or school, there’s a few ways to cut down on the fuel you use. If you don’t live far from work, then try to walk to and from the destination. This will do your health a lot of good too, and will even save you some major money on fueling up your car. If it’s a bit too far for mere walking, then you might want to consider getting a bike. This will help you go further faster and is still a great way to get in a workout without ever having to give up your free time. Of course, these options aren’t always available. If you can’t find a way to do this, then you might want to consider taking public transit or organizing a carpool. Carpools are perfect for neighbors that have children of a similar age and will certainly help out your wallet.

7. Plant Food
If there’s one gift you can give to the planet and your family, it’s planting fruits and vegetables. This is a great way to keep nutrients in the earth, add oxygen to the atmosphere and keep nutritious food on the table. Sure, it’s a lot easier to plant food if you have a garden or large yard. However, if you happen to live in an apartment complex or simply have no space, you can work around this slight dilemma. In fact, using hydroponics is a great way to conserve water while you plant. This requires you to keep your plants in a bucket or basket, which can be purchased for next to nothing in dollar stores and department stores. There’s also special plant hangers that will preserve space while making gardening a lot of fun for you and the family. By planting food, you’ll teach your children how to eat right, which will offer them years of health and satisfaction. Plus, they’ll also know how to take care of themselves, in regards to food.

8. Meatless Monday
The meatless Monday movement has gained a lot of steam over the past year and has helped the country and the world out, in regards to pollution. However, if you still don’t know about this movement, you may be pleasantly surprised as to how easy it is. Basically, you choose one night a week and your family goes without meat. It doesn’t have to be a Monday and it doesn’t have to be the same day every week. If you’re not sure how to prepare a meal without meat, there’s lots of recipes online. You don’t have to stick to a pasta dish each night either, so don’t stress out about the carbs. Participating in Meatless Monday will help out your family’s health while taking a lot of the burden off of the planet. Meat processing factories almost rank worse than cars, so by reducing your meat intake it will feel like removing several cars off the road for the planet!

9. Shop Second Hand
A lot of people love to shop, but the fact of the matter is, most of the brands we’ve grown to love aren’t helping out when it comes to the environment. From emitting toxins into the air to using products that harm animals, these companies reap a lot from the harm they do. Instead of going out and buying brand new items every time you need something, you might consider shopping at yard sales or thrift stores. This will allow us to get more out of each item that is produced, so we don’t have to do as much harm to the environment by buying new things over and over again. Of course, you should also consider donating your used items too. There’s no need to waste something that is still functioning and able to serve a purpose to some.

10. Rethink Your Period
No one likes to deal with their period, or the accessories that go along with it. So, thinking about using green personal care items might seem a little scary. There’s actually many new products on the market now that cater to your needs while also reducing your carbon footprint. For starters, the menstrual cup has gained a lot of popularity this year. This cup has the same principles of a tampon, but is actually safer to use because it doesn’t absorb the blood. The cup is easy to sanitize and will actually save you a lot of money in the long run. Fabric pads are another green design that works for many women and follow the same principle rules as the absorbent pads. Also, new panties hit the market which allow you to go pad and tampon free as the fabric absorbs the blood, so it won’t ruin you clothing or embarrass you.

There’s lots of easy ways to go green in the New Year, which should make you and your family feel better about your role in the world. These tips are not only great for the planet, but will save you money in the long run too. So, now you can feel like you’re doing your part as the world works hard to make the major changes our planet needs.

New Year’s is one of the most common times for people to travel. Apart from all of the holiday festivities earlier in the week, this period is when people want to break free and start their new year off with a bang. Of course, traveling and finding entertainment during this time can be a huge hassle. Not to mention, it may cost you an arm and a leg if you’re not careful. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to avoid the high prices, so you don’t have to begin your fresh start on the wrong financial foot. So, pack your bags and let these ten frugal tips guide you to an extraordinary holiday.

1. Stay With Loved Ones
If you’re going to be away from the home, then you may want to travel somewhere where you know people. This can be a huge asset if you’re looking to save money on hotel costs. This will allow you to spend time with friends and family too, which will make the holiday seem even better. During this time of the year, hotels skyrocket in price, especially if you didn’t have time to plan ahead. So, finding a loved one to crash with will ensure you won’t even up in the hole before the fresh year even begins. Plus, sometimes it’s hard to even book a hotel room during this time frame, so you might end up spending ages looking for a place to sleep if you plan on playing your hotel by ear. Even if you’re not staying far from home, you may want to try to stay with the loved ones you’re celebrating with. This will help prevent potential accidents, which flourish during the late night celebration.

2. Extend Your Vacation
Sometimes, the best way to cut down on the rate of your hotel or airline costs is to make your vacation last a little longer. Sure, this may sound like it’s going to make you spend more money, but when you add it up you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised. For starters, the best airfare tends to happen a couple of days after New Year’s, which will mean your return flight will cost you a lot less. Typically, January 5 is the best time book your flight home, which gives you four extra days of rest. Hotels are also more affordable after the holidays, because there is a sudden decline in business. Also, when you stay at a hotel for longer, you should be able to get a reduction on the price of your room. Last but not least, when you vacation a little longer, you’ll be able to relax and feel renewed for when you do return to work and your real life. This will help you get a great start on your brand new year.

3. Drive
Since it’s already so close to the last day of the year, you may find that booking a flight is nearly impossible to do, unless you’re willing to spend some big money. Thus, driving may be the only feasible option for your holiday plans. If you’re not going across the country, then a New Year’s road trip could really add a lot of fun to the holiday. Generally, the price of gas will cut down on your spending opposed to paying for an airline ticket. Plus, if there’s more than one person going along then this will be the most frugal option. Taking your car with you will also give you the freedom of not having to take taxis everywhere you go. This alone could help you cut down on your spending. Don’t worry about parking though because most hotels will offer this for free with the price of your room. Of course, you should make sure to follow driving safety tips, especially if the weather isn’t convenient.

4. Show Up Early
When it comes to going to holiday events, the best thing you can do is show up to the event early. In some cases, this may mean spending most of your day at the event. So it might be wise to do a bit of research before you choose exactly what you plan on doing for the countdown. For instance, most people claim that you need to arrive at Time Square by 3 in the afternoon if you plan on seeing the ball drop. This can mean lots of time on your feet. Other events aren’t as demanding when it comes to when you should arrive, but it’s always wise to be there a reasonable amount of time early. This might not be as big of a deal for small town events, but if you’re doing anything in the city then be prepped to do a lot of waiting. It’ll all be worth it when you’re having the time of your life though, so don’t stress just be aware of time restraints.

5. Find Entertainment Alternatives
If you’re not in the mood for waits that will consume your entire holiday, then you may want to look around for some alternatives. You may be surprised as to how many events big cities and small towns will host for this holiday, so make sure to do a bit of research before you actually book any tickets. Whereas a big event may seem right up your alley, you may find something that’s even more exciting than the typical New Year’s activity. Even if you already think you have your night planned out, it’s never a bad idea to come up with a plan B. This will allow you to bypass any hiccups that could make your night less than perfect. Simply researching what’s available may not just you entertained from dusk til dawn, but it could even save you a pretty penny in the long run. So, this year, do a little looking around, you may find a brand new tradition locally or in a faraway city. Or, you could find a whole new way to watch the iconic New Year’s countdown.

6. Think Small
Many people tend to make huge plans for the holiday, because they feel like it’s a great way to ring in the new year. However, you may be surprised as to how amazing a small celebration can be. If travel is your main concern, then don’t travel far. Try looking at nearby cities or towns to see if there is going to be a celebration that will be fun for you and your family. Keeping close by allows you to start fresh in a new environment, but won’t force you to have to book a hotel room or book an airline ticket. Not to mention, a lot of smaller venue events are more affordable if not free, which is sure to suit your budget more than the large scale event you might have originally thought of. If there’s nothing close by then consider traveling a little further. Hotels outside of tourist areas shouldn’t cost you as much as cities would, so you’d still be able to save.

7. Keep to the Budget
It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling half way across the world to celebrate the New Year or if you’re going to a nearby town, you should always know what your limits are, so you don’t make any spending mistakes. Make sure you look up expected costs for your trip before you leave, this will let you know what the full price will be, so you can make sure you have it covered. You may want to plan to budget in a little extra money though because sometimes prices aren’t what they were expected or an emergency arises. Once you have your budget set and ready to go then ditch your credit or debit card. If you’re not comfortable with leaving it at home, then keep it in the safe in your hotel room. Carrying cash will help you keep track of your spending and will ensure you see money as something tangible and finite.

8. Be Prepared
Some of the biggest money mistakes happen because of people being ill prepared for the event they plan to attend. One of the biggest things to consider when you go to an event is the weather. Sometimes, it may seem like it’s a clear day out, but before you know it the temperature drops or it begins to rain or snow. If you can, try to bring a coat with you or have a plan allowing someone from your group to leave to get weather gear if an emergency arises. Also, food and water is a major must. Many people, especially those at Time Square, have to stand for hours on end, so having food and water is going to be crucial when it comes to making it to the event. You should always plan on staying hydrated anyway. Of course, it’s often better to bring these items on your own as buying them at an event will be ridiculously expensive.

9. Avoid Vendors
One of the worst temptations during this time of the year is outdoor vendors. Sometimes, after standing for long periods of time waiting for an event, you may be tempted to fall prey to the vendors in the area. Generally, these vendors will sale comfort foods, easily portable snacks and warm beverages at a price that may not make you think twice if you’re over hungry or tired. Of course, it isn’t just foods and drink that can tempt you into spending a small fortune. They often sell glow sticks, souvenirs and items designed to make kids beg for them. If you can, try to find a place that is vendor free or buy these items in advance so you won’t feel pressured to spend your hard earned money on overpriced junk. Although these items will cost you upfront, some of the souvenirs may even force you to pay more for your luggage when you bring them back home with you.

10. Use Rewards
If you’re still trying to get a good deal on an airline ticket or hotel, then you may want to go ahead and check out what your rewards card can do for you. Whether you have a credit card that offers points or miles, or a simple hotel rewards club card, then you may be surprised as to the deals you can find, even though it’s last minute. Sometimes, you may even be able to buy a full ticket with your rewards, depending on how often you traveled this year. If you’re not sure where you stand with your card, then call and ask. You could be privy to some major savings that you didn’t even know about. With any luck, you may even be able to get a travel package, which could cover the cost of some of your activities too, which will certainly save you some good money.

Having a blast during New Year’s isn’t hard to do, but money can ruin your plans in no time flat. These ten tips should help point you in the right direction when it comes to finding savings so you can make the trip of your dreams. Whether you’re going near or far, you should be able to find the perfect solution to your last minute travel and entertainment problems.

Although the holiday season may make us all feel warm and fuzzy inside, it’s still important to remember that this time of the year is always when crime surges. Between packages left by the door and pricey presents sitting pretty under a tree, it’s no wonder that criminals choose the holiday months to cash in on their bad deeds. It doesn’t matter if you’re staying home for the holidays or if you want to travel with loved ones, there’s a chance you and your items could end up in danger. Luckily, there’s some precautions you can take to help cut back on your home being a target. These techniques cost little to nothing to pull off and will ensure your holiday won’t be ruined by those looking to cause harm.

1. Set a timer
There’s two indicators that a house is empty, which could cue a burglar to come up with a plan to rob you. The first is a lack of lights for a said period of time and the second is lights that are always on. You can easily avoid this problem, and a huge electricity bill, by placing your lights on a timer. These can be purchased for next to nothing to begin with, and you can set them to come on and go off when you’d normally get home from work and go to bed. Some timers are even controllable through your phone, so you can hop on the program and turn on a light or two to give the empty house a more lived in feel. This should stop even the more experienced criminals from targeting your home. If you think the lights alone aren’t enough, then you can also place a timer on your TV or a radio to add a little noise to the mix. This can also come in handy if you have pets that get a bit lonely while you’re gone.

2. Talk to a Neighbor
In the good ole days, you used to spend lots of time with your neighbors. Between barbeques and family outings, there was no reason to think twice about the people on your block. Nowadays, neighbors aren’t usually as friendly as they once were and sometimes people don’t even know who their neighbors are. This can be a problem especially during the holiday season. If you plan on leaving the home for the holidays or if you are supposed to receive packages during this time of the year, then a friendly and trusted neighbor can be a huge asset. Letting your neighbor know what’s going on in your life can help prevent crime from happening. For instance, if you tell your neighbor you’ll be leaving for the holidays then they can always keep an eye out for suspicious behavior. Also, neighbors can help you by collecting mail on your porch that may otherwise be stolen. This doesn’t mean you should share with neighbors you don’t trust though, but it might be wise to try to build a relationship with at least one person that lives around you. Also, you could gather the neighborhood and talk about starting a neighborhood watch to help safeguard everyone during the holidays.

3. Hold Your Mail
Sometimes, the neighbor trick doesn’t always work. Not to mention, during this time of the year many mailboxes are broken into. So, if you’re expecting pay checks holiday cards and other items that may be of a financial gain then you might want to consider asking the post office to hold your mail. This can come in handy even if you aren’t’ going on a trip. With your mail being held at the office, you can go in to pick up items whenever you feel like it and you won’t have to worry about things going missing. Of course, if you don’t want to deal with all of the hassle of having your mail held, then you could always get a PO box. This holds the same principle and will allow you to feel more secure about your mail all year long.

4. Set Up Home Surveillance
If you’re worried about what goes on in your home, then you may want to consider setting up a little home surveillance in and around the home. Don’t worry though, this doesn’t mean you need to spend thousands of dollars just to protect your family during the holiday season. Instead, you can easily set up home surveillance on your own. Between mobile phone and webcams, you can inexpensively set up cameras around the home. Simply set them up to work with laptops or a DVR system and your home will be under surveillance as long as the power is on. This can come in handy if you are staying home for the holidays as it is easy to run these devices while you’re away from the house for a few hours. You may even be able to watch a live feed on your phone. Of course, if you plan on traveling then you may not have as efficient of an experience. DIY security systems can be unreliable, especially if a battery goes dead or you lose power in the house at one point in time. If you do want to reduce the risk then shop around for a system that suits your needs and budget. Often you can find older models online. Most of these new cameras will also allow you to send a live feed to the phone, which means you can travel without thinking twice.

5. Never Pack in Public
Once again, in the golden days, you could pack up your car in broad daylight and the neighbors would probably wave goodbye as you drove down the road. However, today, packing in front of an audience can lead to some major problems. First of all, you’re sending a huge alert that you’re leaving the house for a little while. Although it may not be your neighbors that pick up on the signal, it could be someone willing to do your family harm. Thus, it’s always best to load up your vehicle in a garage if you have one. If you don’t then simply pack it up in the dark. It may be best to do it in the early hours of the morning before you leave, so your items won’t sit outside unsupervised all night. Also, you may want to try to leave while it is still dark too. This will prevent others from realizing you’ve gone.

6. Use Illusions
If you don’t want to sink a lot of money into a home security system or deal with headache of installing a DIY system, then illusions may be your best bet when it comes to tricking a criminal. One of the best things you can do is add a beware of dog sign to your yard. This will let people know your dog isn’t on the friendly side, even if you don’t actually have a dog or your dog is the biggest love bug on the planet. Another idea is to add security stickers to your window. May it be from a security company or a simple Neighborhood Watch sticker, this could detour criminal activity. If you want to be even more menacing, then buy fake cameras to place outside of the home. This is a tactic that many businesses use, which helps detour criminal activity substantially. These cameras don’t cost much at all and are simple to install.

7. Don’t Advertise
We live in a world of over-sharing, which can be a huge problem if you’re not careful. One thing you should never do during this time of the year is post you’re going on vacation on your social media pages. Sure, telling a neighbor or friend about the trip so they can help out is one thing, but telling everyone on your friend list is another. You can easily allow someone you don’t want to gain access to your personal life into your personal business, thus offering them an invitation to come see what you have worth stealing in your home. Even if you manage to keep things hushed about your trip, your friends and family might not. So you may want to ask people not to share photos until you’ve returned home, or you can simply block yourself from being tagged until you’re ready for people to know about the trip. You should also never let people know what gifts you have under your tree. This may be harmless, especially when you’re just talking with other parents about the “it” gifts of the season, but letting people know what is under your tree could be opening an invitation for theft.

8. Mind the Decor
Believe it or not, but your holiday decor can aid a thief in robbing you. For starters, if you choose to place you tree by a window then make sure your blinds or curtains are shut at all times near that area. A tree placed near the window is basically an open invitation for some criminals. It means they have to do very little work for the items they want and can often go undetected until the criminal is long gone. So, if you can, you should always place the tree out of the public’s eye. Another major problem is setting up holiday lights. Often, people will string the extension cord through a window in the house, which makes the window easy to get through for a criminal. This is especially bad if you leave the home. If you do choose to light your home this way, make sure you have backup security to deal with window, or simply remove the cord when you leave, so you can lock up efficiently.

9. Lock Up
It may seem like common sense, but locking up the home is the best way to prevent others from coming into it. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget to lock up some windows or the back door, especially if they’re rarely in use. However, during the holiday season you should make sure to take as many precautions as possible. You may even want to cut off pieces of an old broom to block sliding doors and windows. This will help add more protection to areas where a lock may be more fragile. You may want to get into a ritual of checking all the doors and windows before you leave the home, so you won’t have to stress all day. Also, if you have an alarm system, always make sure to alarm it, especially during this time of the year.

10. Ignore Solicitors
Sure, the holiday season brings many people to the door, but one key rule to remember is don’t open up for anyone you don’t know. If the person is delivering a package, then you’ll either know the package is coming or they’ll simply leave it behind. Other than that, holiday visitors like religious solicitors or those selling goods for a charity are not something you should open up for. Although the people may have the best intentions, you never know who they truly are. In fact, they could use religion as a way to get into your home, so they can take inventory on the items they may be interested in stealing. It is also an easy way to get most people to share what they will be doing for the holidays. So, save yourself a bit of trouble and simply don’t bother with these visitors at this time.

Keeping your home secure is always a priority, but the holidays bring a whole new world of challenges that can leave you wondering how to keep your family safe without breaking your budget. These ten tips should help you find the perfect way to secure your home from those who aim to cause harm.

With only a few days left until the big day, you’re probably trying to get all of your holiday items wrapped up and ready to go. With such a tight budget during this time of the year, you may wonder how you can cut down on the price of wrapping your gifts. Wrapping supplies can add up in price, which will certainly leave you regretting some of the larger items you bought this year. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do to save big time when it comes to getting the gifts wrapped up and under the tree. These ten tips won’t just give you a frugal way to keep your wrapping paper expenditures down, but it will also help you get creative with your gift wrapping.

1. Recycling
Using recycled goods as wrapping supplies is a time honored tradition that’s not only good for your wallet, but can help save the planet too. When it comes to wrapping with recycled goods, the sky is truly the limit. If you’re looking for a classic wrapping paper, then you might want to stick to newspaper or comic strips. This will bring a lot of fun to the gift while also allowing you to get rid of some of the papers that have been stacked at the door for months on end. If you have a lot of brown bags around the house then these are equally good and offer a better way to conceal the gift, thanks to the thick paper. Simply cut the bag and let it work its magic. You can always draw designs on the bag too, which is sure to help you feel festive. If you love to be creative with your wrapping paper, then you can also use generic wrapping paper that has been left over from birthdays or other occasions. Simply use the blank side and then let your imagination run free with your favorite markers. Magazines, old maps and sheet music are also great for wrapping paper, especially if you plan on throwing them away anyway. Last but not least, you can turn food containers into helpful boxes. For instance, oatmeal containers are great for wrapping awkwardly shaped items and cereal boxes can easily be transformed into a box for clothing items.

2. DIY Embellishment
If you like using cheaper wrapping paper, but still want your present to stand out then a DIY embellishment is one of the best ways to go. You can get really creative here too, without having to worry about spending too much of your budget. For starters, one of the best embellishments is a homemade paper snowflake. This only takes one piece of paper per snowflake and you can pretty much enlist the entire family in helping out. Another excellent option is a sweet and delicate doily, which can be purchased for next to nothing at most thrift stores. You can keep things natural too, if you want to celebrate the season. For instance, you might want to see if there are any spare leaves, twigs or pinecones outside. The twigs and pinecones can easily be applied to add a touch of natural beauty. Leaves are great too, but will need to be sealed before they end up crumbling everywhere. You can easily use modge podge to glue it to the wrapping paper to create a stunning effect.

3. Cheap Baskets
Gift baskets are becoming increasingly popular, which is why it may be wise to begin shopping for baskets at places like the dollar store. If you can find a store where everything is a dollar then you’ll be doing a world of good. These baskets can easily be decorated with colored plastic wrap too, which will create a wonderful holiday surprise. Of course, these basics usually only cater to smaller gift baskets, so if you’re looking for something aimed for a sports fan or even a wine and cheese basket then you might have to broaden your horizons. Sometimes, hobby stores will have really nice baskets on sale, which should help you save a pretty penny. Also, thrift stores are always a great option to check out. Baskets don’t just have to be for gift baskets though. You can also use them for gifts that are awkwardly shaped. This will help conceal what the gift is, so the recipient will never guess.

4. Scrap Fabric
Bringing elegance to your gifts is easy to do when it comes to fabric. If you tend to sew often and have a lot of scrap fabric, then this tip is for you. Large amounts of fabric can be used just as wrapping paper and will create a sophisticated look that your loved one’s will marvel over. Of course, it may seem tough to wrap with fabric, but there’s many online tutorials that may have you wrapping with fabric whenever you get the chance. Fabrics also come in handy as gift bags too. If you’re not too shabby with sewing, then you should be able to whip up quite a few bags in no time at all. This is perfect for gratitude bags for parties, but they can also work as quick stocking inspired bags for candies and other small gifts. You can find scrap fabric just about anywhere too. Even if you don’t have it in your own home, many craft stores will place already cut or out of fashion fabric on clearance. You may even get lucky and find some holiday prints.

5. Kids Artwork
When it comes to the holidays, involving kids in all the activities can be a lot of fun and will allow them to feel like a big kid. One way to get the kids into the holiday spirit is to ask them to draw holiday artwork. You can have them draw on regular sized paper or even on large pieces or rolled paper. Of course, even printed coloring sheets will do the trick. Once the kids have a lot of art work ready to go, you can easily begin the process of wrapping your gifts. Of course, you may have to tape many works of art together before you end up covering a full package, so don’t feel discouraged. However, the final result will be filled with love and holiday spirit.

6. Reuse Last Year’s Bags
If you’re looking to save money within the home, then saving last year’s bags is a great way to do so. This might be a bit of a challenge if you’re giving gifts to people outside of the home, so you might want to practice restraint when it comes to buying expensive bags for others. However, in the home is another matter altogether. If you choose to use bags on gifts then chances are the kids aren’t going to rip into them unless they’re taped shut. Thus, you can easily keep the bags with your other holiday supplies until next year rolls around. Most gift bags can hold up for years, which will allow you to get your money’s worth out of them. Thus, you don’t have to be afraid to splurge a little if there is a bag you really like.

7. Print Out Gift Tags
Another item that tends to cost a bit more than it’s worth is gift tags. These come in all shapes and sizes, from stickers to tie-ons, but can leave your wrapping budget on the high end if you have to provide gift tags for numerous presents. One way to counteract this problem is to print out your own gift tags. You can easily purchase thicker, colored or holiday inspired paper to do this, but regular paper works just as well. You can find an assortment of pre-made tags online, which you can customize to suit your needs. If you simply want to print and cut them out then there’s lots to choose from and most are free. You can also print out tags that allow you to color them, which is perfect for families that have children. Of course, if you’re feeling really creative then you can make your own tags in a photo program, which are sure to impress the recipient.

8. Avoid the Dollar Store
A lot of people tend to think they can get a great deal on wrapping supplies at the dollar store. This is really a trick in most cases though. Yes, you can usually find wrapping paper and other supplies for as low as a dollar, but you have to consider how little you’re actually getting out of the deal. Most of the wrapping paper sold in these stores only have a few feet on them. You can buy a lot more wrapping paper by foot at a department or holiday store for only a bit more than what you would pay at the dollar store. Most other supplies won’t give you the right amount for the money either. Yes, you can find great deals on this stuff on occasion, but make sure you stop and weigh your options before your purchase the supplies just because you think they’re cheap.

9. Bulk Shopping
Truly, one of the best way to shop for wrapping supplies is in bulk. Whether you buy pre-made packages at your local department store or you go to a bulk shopping store to buy large quantities at once, this is usually the best way to get the most out of your money. Bulk shopping allows you to get more per foot and so much more than you could at other stores. Not to mention, with all of the excess supplies, you can store them and save them for next year. Some packaged deals are a great buy too as they will offer everything you need from wrapping paper to bags and ribbons. So, if you can afford to spend a few dollars more on supplies, this is the best way to keep your budget down in the future.

10. Clearance
Although you might need wrapping supplies now, one of the best ways to get more for your money is to hold out until the holidays are over. This will allow you to get all of the supplies you need at a price that has been reduced significantly. So, when you’re shopping you may want to keep an eye out to see if there are wrapping papers or other supplies you’d love to have. Then, head out as early as you can on boxing day and claim your prize at a heavily reduced price. Of course, one trick to the clearance section is to hold out as long as you can, but often the nicer supplies will disappear on the first clearance day. You can also hold out until the middle of the year when Christmas in July sales happen or online stores are simply eager to get rid of old stock so they can move in the newer items.

Wrapping up gifts is part of the fun when it comes to the holidays. However, you shouldn’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on something that is going to be ripped up in a matter of seconds. These gift wrapping tips should help you find just what you need to get ready for the holiday while saving you some extra money that may even help you recover from the tight budget the holiday season created.

It’s probably happened to you at some point or another. That is, you drew the name of a colleague or family member that you didn’t know much about. The dreaded Secret Santa conundrum happens every year and it can be a nightmare, particularly if you’re on a tight budget. There’s a few things you can always get to give the Secret Santa recipient a smile without spending a small fortune though. So, this holiday season, don’t fear the name you draw. Instead, picture how amazing it will be to see your Secret Santa’s reaction to your amazing gift.

1. Sweets
When it’s cold outside, nothing gets rid of the blues quite like some sweet treats. This gift is easy to accomplish and will pretty much please just about anyone. Of course, you might want to figure out if the person you drew is allergic to anything or has dietary restrictions before you follow through with the idea. If everything is safe, then you might want to start planning out which sweets you want to give. Lots of stores will have sweets on sale during this time of the year, so you probably won’t have to spend a lot if you go this route. However, if you want to save even more money then you might consider making your own batch of treats. You can make everything from cookies, cakes, fudge and other candies. Once you’ve whipped up your special gift, decorate it to suit the holiday season and then use colored plastic wrap or holiday bags to create a special gift wrap that will make your homemade item look like it came from a professional shop. Making the treats at home is one of the best options if you do need to work on dietary restrictions. There’s lots of great recipes that can help you alter your recipes too.

2. Portable Beverage Holder
Everyone loves to have a drink handy when they’re working or simply hanging out. So, why not give your Secret Santa recipient the gift of a beverage holder. This truly gives you a lot to work with too, so you can find the best holder for the recipient. If you have someone in your life that likes to be as green as possible then a reusable water bottle might be right up their alley. These come in all shapes and sizes, so look around to see if you find one that suits the recipient’s personality. Health fanatics may swoon over a water infuser bottle. These bottles allow you to add a variety of fruit, which works its way into the water to create a delicious and healthy beverage. Apart from that, there’s always the hard worker that needs that extra jolt of coffee or tea to get through the day. For these recipients, you may consider a travel mug. All of these items can easily be personalized if you want to go the extra mile too.

3. Desk Organizer
The desk organizer is a pretty classic gift, especially if you’re shopping around for a colleague. Although it may seem like a pretty basic gift, you can actually find a wide variety of organizers on the market today. These amazing devices can be customized to suit particular people’s needs as well as the desks they work at. If you’re choosing for a colleague then this can be pretty easy, because you already know size restrictions and the items you need to have at work. Desk organizers can be great for students too, but you may want to find a set that offers a wide assortment of items, so the student can pick and choose the items they need while storing the rest of the items for later use. These days, you can even get character based organizers. Of course, if you really want to show off your DIY skills then you may want to look up tutorials and see if you can create your own special desk organizer for the recipient.

4. Fitness Tracker
When it comes to office work, it’s hard to keep up with how long you’ve been sitting or how many steps you’ve taken. Even if you rely on your phone to keep up with these things you still won’t get an accurate reading. Of course, health is a main concern for most people, so a fitness tracker might be a great way to help your Secret Santa recipient keep track of the things they need to stay healthy. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune to buy the top of the line fitness trackers. There’s actually a lot on the market that are incredibly affordable and will ensure the recipient will love their gift. You may want to have a few sneaky conversations to find out what type of fitness and monitoring skills the recipient is looking for, so you can shop more efficiently.

5. Phone Stand
In this day and age, a lot of people have their smartphone glued to their hip. So, a phone stand is a great gift for colleagues, friends or relatives. Luckily, there’s a whole lot of phone stands on the market these days, so you can customize the stand based on your budget as well as the recipient’s personality. Today’s market offers sleek designs for the professional in your life or cutesy designs like Panda Bears or kittens. Plus, there’s a lot of different attributes to choose from. For instance, you can find a stand that actually charges the phone or some that work as extra USB ports. The sky is the limit when it comes to this must-have gift.

6. Planner
With the year coming to an end, it may be time to help your Secret Santa recipient prepare for the upcoming year. A planner is a simple and classic gift that will allow the person on your list to better their year. Planners can be purchased in all shapes and sizes too, so you can shop specifically for the person on your list. For instance, if you have a colleague that has a bit of trouble making it to meetings or remembering deadlines, then a desktop planner might be wise. You can get one of these that actually rests on the desk itself, which is perfect for those who end up celebrating the month of March until October rolls around. If you don’t want to take up a lot of space the a simple stand up planner will come in handy. You can even find them with inspirational messages for those who need a little motivation each day. Another great idea for a planner is a simple planner book. You can find them with nice leather covers, or some with personalized themes, like favored movies, sports and so on. These generally have more space for appointments and notes, so they might be great for students or colleagues that are always on the go.

7. Desk Accessory
If you’re shopping for someone that works in an office, then a desk accessory can make life so much easier. There’s a lot to choose from too, which means you won’t have a hard time finding the perfect gift for your Secret Santa recipient. If you know the office gets a bit too stuffy or warm, then a small desk fan may lend a helping hand. These are usually battery powered and will move air enough to make the office bearable. A mister is another great idea for warm offices, especially when the cooling goes out in the summer. A paperweight may also come in handy for a colleague or student, especially if they have a hard time keeping important paperwork on the desk. If the person doesn’t have a name tag then you might want to get creative and have one specially made for them. It’s not as expensive as you think it is. Another easy idea is anything that provides extra USB ports, because, let’s face it, two is simply not enough to keep up with today’s device savvy lifestyle.

8. Earbuds
Music over sharers can be really annoying, whether you’re at work, school or even on the street. It’s hard to keep earbuds for long periods of time though as they often break due to everyday wear and storage. So, you may want to consider buying your colleague a new pair of earbuds, or two, as your Secret Santa gift. You can base the ear buds on your own budget as you can find them for next to nothing or you can pay an arm and a leg for them. Earbuds even come in all shapes, colors and themes, so you can truly personalize the gift to suit the recipient, if you so choose. The best thing about this gift is it will encourage work productivity for the recipient, while also preventing you from having to hear another song of theirs on repeat for hours on end.

9. DIY Craft
The holiday season is a great time to channel your crafty side, especially if you’re looking to save some money on your Secret Santa gifts. So, don’t be afraid to give one of your crafts as a gift. One of the more common things to do is make a candle that is filled with holiday cheer. You can choose scents that remind you of the season and decorate the outside to show your joy for the holiday. You may also want to consider wrapping up some of your homemade jam or pickles. These tasty treats will make anyone pleased to receive them and will show you put some heart into your gift. One of the more recent trends is passing on one of your recipes in a mason jar. These are particularly popular when it comes to cookies or soups. The best thing is, it’ll allow the recipient to enjoy a little home cooking without having to put in all of the work. If you want to spread the holiday spirit, then you can make the recipient their own personal holiday ornament or wreath. If the recipient is religious, then a hymnal angel might warm their heart.

10. Gift Cards
Sometimes, it is simply too hard to find the perfect gift for someone. Or, perhaps, you’re just strapped for time and don’t really want to spend hours waiting in a checkout line. This is where gift cards come in. You can find a gift card for just about anything these days. You may choose to buy one for a local department or clothing store, or you might know of a restaurant or café that the recipient happens to love. The best thing is, you can buy a gift card from anywhere. There’s even many websites online that will sell gift cards at a reduced rate, so you can get more for your money. If you actually want a tangible gift card then you may want to hurry or else the gift may not arrive in time. Of course, often enough you can simply print out the gift card.

Having a Secret Santa gift exchange can be a lot of fun if you’re not worried about blowing your holiday budget or buying the recipient something they’ll hate. These ten gift ideas should help you find something that will strike the recipients fancy without forcing you to spend too much. Now, you can actually enjoy the holiday party, because you’re sure to win at least a smile with your well thought out gift.

The holidays are a great time to spend time with family and friends while spreading the warmth of the season. The only problem is, with gifts and feasts being planned, the budget often tends to be too strapped to pay for entertainment. Luckily, there’s lots of great ways to celebrate the season when you don’t want to stretch your budget even further. In fact, you may even be able to find a lot of activities that are totally free. Now, you can enjoy the holiday season with a little less stress because you’ll be able to keep the kids busy over the holiday break while having a bit of fun yourself!

1. Caroling
If you can’t find anything to do during the holiday break or on the weekends, then you may want to try your hand at caroling. You can go as a family or recruit a list of people to go along with you. You’ll have a blast organizing your favorite songs and sharing a bit of joy with your neighbors. Of course, you may want to plan out a route before you go, especially if you live in an area that doesn’t like to be disturbed. If you don’t want to go from door to door then you can easily do some caroling in a local park. Of course, if spending time singing outside isn’t your idea of fun then you can always talk to a church about singing there when there aren’t any services. This activity shouldn’t cost you thing either. You can even download sheet music, which will help everyone know the notes and lyrics that they should be singing.

2. Donate to Charity
Although you may get a few eye rolls, asking the family to go through their things for charity is a great way to spread holiday cheer. This will really help the family understand the holiday isn’t just about getting new things, but also that you should be giving too. Plus, if you explain to the family that some people won’t get anything for the holidays, they may be more willing to part with items they don’t wear or play with anymore. You may even want to donate items like old ornaments and holiday décor to help those who want to decorate but can’t. Of course, you can also spend a bit of money buying new items for charity too. For instance, Toys for Tots is a great way to donate, but it only accepts new toys as donations. You don’t have to spend a lot to make a difference here. Another great thing to give during the season is food. Canned food is important for many families that have so little, so make sure to go through your pantry to see if you can spare anything. Finally, hair donations are appreciated all year long, but you could make a child happy for the holidays if you choose to donate your hair for a wig during the giving season.

3. Make Holiday Ornaments
This is a great way to keep the kids busy while also decorating your tree. You can make ornaments out of just about anything, so let your imagination soar. One of the more common ideas is to use foam plates. You can have the kids draw on them and then shrink them down in the oven. If you have lots of pinecones outside of the home then you can also use those to make an assortment of holiday ornaments. Simply add glitter to the cones or place them on the tree as is. Of course, one of the more common ideas is the snowman ornament. All you need is a plain bulb and some paint to complete this activity. Simply add white paint to one of your child’s hands and then place the bulb in their palm. Then slowly rest the fingers on the bulb. Once you remove the hand, let the paint dry and then return to paint the details of the five little snowmen you just made on the bulb. Of course, you can dress up old bulbs in a variety of ways, so browse around to see if there’s any craft ideas that are up your alley.

4. Holiday Show Marathon
If the weather outside is truly frightful then you might want to keep everyone indoors and enjoy some quality time. One way to keep everyone entertained during this time is to have a holiday show marathon. You can have each person pick out a holiday show or movie to watch, which is sure to warm up the cold day. If you don’t already own some holiday movies then you might want to check and see if your streaming service has any to pick from. During this time of the year, most will have a wide variety of films to keep the whole family entertained. Of course, cable also has a lot of options and you may even be able to get some of the shows on On Demand, so you won’t have to catch them when they air on the specific channel. You can make hot chocolate, popcorn and other holiday treats to enjoy while you watch the films too!

5. Visit Hospital/Nursing Home
When it comes to making the most out of the season, one of the best things you can do is simply spend some time visiting a nursing home or a hospital. During this time of the year, many people who are sick or elderly often don’t get a lot of visitors for one reason or another. This can cause severe loneliness which can often make health issues worse. So, rather than spending money on holiday activities, you may want to consider spending a bit of time at a nursing home or hospital. You can simply sit around and talk with the patients if you want. You bring along some books to read to them. You may even bring a group with you so you can organize a play, caroling or other activities to bring a little joy to these people. Most of the time, the patients are happy just to have someone stop by to see them, so don’t feel like you need to bring gifts or food if your budget doesn’t allow it.

6. Bake Cookies
Nothing says holiday fun quite like baking some of your favorite cookies. During this season you may want to spend some time in the kitchen helping the kids develop an extra special cookie for Santa Claus. Kids can come up with the ingredients they’d like to use and decorate them to show off their creative side. You can try out a whole bunch of different recipes too, which will help you create frugal snacks for the holidays and it keep the house warmer by using the oven. Apart from that, you can have the kids write down their recipes in special books, so they can recreate the cookies next year. If the kids are pleased with the recipe they choose then it can become your traditional cookie, or you can try a little something new next year. This could also be a great memory that your kids may pass down to their own children in the future.

7. Hot Cocoa Party
If you want to spend a little time with friends, family and neighbors but you don’t have the money for a huge holiday bash, then you may want to consider a hot cocoa party. This is probably one of the most frugal parties you can have. The best thing is, you can make a variety of hot cocoa to suit all of your guests. Some will want theirs’s made with milk, while others prefer the lower calorie option with water. You can use simple packets to make your hot cocoa or you can whip it up from your favorite recipe. The options are endless. Of course, you shouldn’t forget the toppings, such as whipped cream or marshmallows, either as these will please your guests. Usually, most people won’t drink more than a mug or two of hot chocolate, so you won’t have to splurge too much. It will also make people feel warm as the holiday spirit shows. If you want to go even more in depth, you might ask people to bring their favorite snacks to pair with the warm beverage.

8. Make Cards
Sending out cards to those you love is a great way to show you care during the seasons. No matter if your loved ones are near or far, a simple card is a great way to share your feelings while promoting your holiday cheer. However, if you’re on a budget then you may not want to spend a lot of money on cards that are already made. So, fight the kid’s boredom by having them make up a variety of cards to send out to your loved ones. You can use simple printing paper or construction paper to add to the look. You shouldn’t have to splurge on supplies for this project either, as you can usually use what you already have in your craft area. The kids will love doing their part for the holiday and your loved ones will admire getting an original work of art from your family. If you still have time to kill, then you might consider hand delivering some of the cards to nearby friends and family.

9. Story Time
It doesn’t matter if your kids are young or old, story time is a great way to help pass the time during the holiday season. Younger kids will love hearing the classic stories we all grew up on, which won’t cost you a penny. If you don’t already have the stories memorized then you can print out copies of most of the classics for free, in most cases. Others can be purchased for mere cents on an e-reader, which may even provide you with pictures to share with the kids. If the group is more mature then you could read a bit of some of the classis, like Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Of course, you can also have a bit of fun by having everyone come up with their own holiday story. Before you know it, you’ll have some family favorites that will impress you. You can also share memories of the holidays from the past, which are sure to bring smiles and lots of warmth to your holiday experience.

10. DIY Gifts
Of course, if all else fails and you want to save a bit of money on your holiday shopping then you might want to consider working on some DIY gifts. Some popular options are items like mason jar cookies, which are so easy to make even the little ones can join in on the fun. Younger kids will especially love making special snowflakes, which only require paper and scissors to make. Wreathes, ornaments and even color sheets are other crafts that will help keep everyone busy while making someone in your life smile. You can easily come up with gifts for teachers, grandparents, friends and neighbors without having to spend a whole lot of money.

With these ten activities, your holiday should be filled with the warmth you desire without forcing you to spend a lot more money. Now, you can easily forget about the financial burdens of the holiday, so you can enjoy the time with your family and friends. After all, the season is best spent without troubles and these ten activities should help you forget all yours!

Decorating for the holiday season can be a world of fun. However, sometimes the decor can really add up when it comes to your budget. Wreaths are one decor item that can really leave a tight budget hurting. They can range from an okay price to costing an arm and a leg, which is why so many people tend to stick with the same wreath for many years. There are a few ways you can avoid the high price of a new wreath though. These ten ideas will help you make holiday decor even more fun while saving you a pretty penny on one of the season’s classic decorations.

1. Candy Wreath
If there’s one thing the holiday season has plenty of, it’s definitely candy. From colorful chocolates to candy canes, there’s candy just about everywhere you look. This is one good reason to turn your abundance of candy into a festive holiday wreath. One of the more common ideas is to use candy canes to form a wreath. The wreath may be slightly fragile if you only use the candy canes to shape it though. So, you might want to create a wreath frame out of items such as cardboard or wire. If you have an old wreath you’d love to spice up, then gather all of your colorful candy and have fun decorating it. You’ll love letting the kids in on this activity too as it will allow them to feel the holiday spirit. Of course, you don’t have to part with your delicious candy if you don’t want to. You may want to consider making faux candy using colored plastic wrap or foil to create candy wrappers. Simply hot glue these wrappers to a wreath and you’ll be ready to celebrate in style.

2. Reuse Holiday Decor
Let’s face it, sometimes we outgrow our holiday ornaments and other decor. So, why not use it to carry on the holiday spirit in a whole new way? One of the more common crafts is to take your older Christmas tree bulbs and glue them together to form a wreath. This can be a fun task for the whole family and will show off your family’s personality through your old ornaments. You may also want to amp up an old wreath by simply using the bulbs as accent pieces. Another fun option is try the same thing out with an old strand of lights. Of course, you could simply wrap lights around a new wreath base to create a bright piece that helps your holiday guests find the front door with ease. Another option is to use garland to create a whole new wreath. There’s lots of great ideas for this, so browse around online or use your creative energy to suit your household’s likes.

3. Paper
Believe it or not, but paper can be one amazing material when it comes to wreaths. One key idea here is to choose some festive scrapbook paper or even gift wrap. When you’ve picked out the assortment you’d like to use then cut it into a specific shapes. Leaves are easy to work with, but if you want to go more in depth then feel free to let your imagination soar. Once everything is cut then glue the pieces into the shape of a wreath. If you want to place the wreath outside then laminate the pieces before you put them together. You can also take strips of paper and weave them into a wreath. This is a fun task for kids and it makes a great indoor accessory. Of course, if the family can’t agree on a wreath then you may want to simply print out a coloring sheet and let everyone decorate their own.

4. Nature
The holidays are a great time to celebrate the beauty of nature, which is why a natural wreath may earn you some major holiday compliments. One classic idea is to have the kids collect a bunch of pinecones. Once you have enough, simply glue them together in the shape of a wreath. You can then add accent items to top the look off. If you have a pine tree close by, you can use clippings to create a fun wreath. Of course, faux pine clippings can be used if you want to use the wreath year after year. Simply take the clippings and glue them in a circle. You may have to do two layers to avoid bare areas. If there’s softer twigs in the area you can also weave these into a wreath or simply glue them together to create a natural look. Real or plastic foods, such as cranberries, popcorn and seasonal produce, can be used as well and will add a burst of color to your wreath. Last but not least, seasonal poinsettias can be glued onto a wreath for a vibrant look everyone will love.

5. Fabrics
When it comes to making a wreath, fabrics open up a lot of options. Ribbon, for starters, is one of the most common decor items when it comes to the holiday season. You can easily use some of your left over ribbon to weave a wreath that will make your guests stunned by its beauty. If you don’t like weaving then you can easily wrap the ribbon around the wreath foundation to create another amazing look. Of course, other fabrics can be used here too. Tulle is one of the more common items because you can shape it into many different styles. If you want to keep the wreath inside then you may consider finding seasonal material to help out. Simply cut it into the shape of a wreath and sew it into a pillow using frugally priced stuffing. You can even make these wreaths into special gifts that will amaze your friends and family. If you don’t want to splurge on festive fabrics then simply get a solid color or go with white. You can use fabric paints to let each child decorate their own, which is sure to bring smiles to their faces.

6. Recyclables
This season, don’t just give to your friends and family, give to planet Earth too. Try to keep your recycling back so you can find items that you can use to create a wreath. One classic item to use is bottle caps, especially if you have a lot lying around the house. These can be glued into the shape of a wreath using a hot glue gun. You can even glue the caps around an existing wreath to give it a bit more dimension. Crushed cans can also be transformed into something beautiful when you glue them into the shape of a wreath. With all of the lovely holiday cans making an appearance on the shelf, it’ll be simple to gather supplies for this exciting project. If you love to have a glass of wine with dinner then chances are you may have some wine corks lying around the house. These can be glued or wired together and transformed into a fun wreath. Of course, it may take a bit of time to collect enough to make a wreath large enough to display!

7. Toys
One way to make a wreath that will make your kids jump for joy is to allow them to add some toys to the mix. You can easily pick up a bare-boned wreath for this task, refurbish an old one, or DIY your own. Once you have the wreath then allow the kids to choose the toys they’d like to use. This is where the real fun begins. Kids can use their own toys or you can find cheap items at the dollar store. Dollar store toys are great for themes though because you can usually find large packs of play toys for next to nothing. When you’ve picked out the toys you’d like then pull out the hot glue gun and get to work. Of course, if the kids are using their own toys then you might want to use twist ties as they may change their mind later on or they might want the toys back when the season is over. Toy wreaths are great to donate to children’s hospitals too. If you really want to get creative you can most likely find bulk mini-wreaths at a great price, which will allow you and the family to decorate to provide for each child in the hospital.

8. Gift Wrap
You may find it to be a no-brainer to use your gift wrap to help you make an exciting new wreath. If you have an old wreath or a wreath frame, then you can easily wrap it up in wrapping paper. You don’t even have to use matching paper. In fact, you can simply use your wrapping paper scraps in order to save even more money on the craft. Once your wreath is all wrapped up, then add a few accessories to create an inspiring and beautiful gift-inspired wreath. Ribbons always add a nice touch and can be used in many different ways. You may also want to add curled strings, paper bows and a name tag to the fun wreath. Although it may not be best to put this wreath directly outside, it will still make a fun decoration that people will love to get a closer look at.

9. Thrift Stores
If you’re not feeling all that creative this year and you still want to save some money then you may want to look around your local thrift stores. Often, thrift stores get lots of holiday donations around this time of the year because many people choose to buy new decor. Of course, you may be able to find the decor items all year long though, so if you’re looking for a good deal then make sure to keep your eye out. Often, thrift store wreaths may not be in the best of shape, so you might want to do a little freshening up before you hang them up. Of course, you may get lucky and find an extraordinary wreath at a price that any store couldn’t compete with.

10. Clearance
When it comes to actually shopping for a wreath you may as well hold out until the shopping season is over. The best time to buy a wreath is the week after Christmas as everything goes on clearance. So, you might want to begin your journey on Boxing Day in order to get the best options as things begin to fly off the shelf incredibly fast after the holidays are over. Of course, if you want to wait then you should be able to find a greater deal on a wreath as time passes because stores will want the items off of the shelf as quickly as possible, thus they may reduce the price considerably. You should be able to find a great deal on clearance wreaths throughout the year though, so don’t fret if you don’t find something you want during the holiday sales. One of the best things you can do is look online to see if anything truly strikes your fancy. Summer can be one of the best times for online stores, so don’t feel bad about doing a little Christmas in July shopping.

Wreaths are one of the more common ways to share your holiday spirit with your guests and neighbors. However, you shouldn’t have to spend an arm and a leg to have a wreath of your own. These tips will allow you to enjoy many DIY wreaths, or simply buy one for a price that doesn’t leave your holiday budget strapped.

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season starting up, you may want to start considering which techie gifts you’ll be after this year. Technology is one of the most purchased gifts of the season, which can be a bit of a burden on your holiday budget. However, there are some gifts that will actually save you quite a bit of money when it comes to initial shopping as well as long term use. These items not only make life a lot easier for the recipient, but will help you live a greener and more frugal lifestyle. So, this holiday season, don’t forget to keep long term rewards in mind when you’re doing all of your tech shopping!

1. Energy Star
If you’re looking to make a bold statement this holiday season, then you may want to shop Energy Star products. It doesn’t matter who the recipient is, Energy Star will make life a lot more frugal and efficient. In short, Energy Star items are designed to use less power, which means they’re much better for the environment. Of course, this also means that they’re much better for the power bill too. Luckily, you can find Energy Star just about anywhere these days, so you won’t have to go out of your way to find them. Plus, most new products are designed with it to make them more frugal, efficient and environmentally savvy. Energy Star also doesn’t cost any extra, so you should be able to get laptops, TVs and appliances at a great price with this amazing technology.

2. Solar Charger
Let’s face it, in today’s world we’re always charging something. From our smartphones to tablets, it almost seems like there’s always something to plug into the wall. Although chargers really don’t take up a whole lot of energy, you may be surprised by how much it saves you each year if you don’t have to plug in your devices. Not to mention, if you can avoid using power, it’ll help the environment out quite a bit. A solar powered charger is one of the best ways to avoid using power while using the planet’s natural resources to charge all of your must-have devices. Generally, solar chargers can be pretty pricey, but it also depends on the size of the charger you want. For instance, if you’re looking for a charger that simply gives your devices a boost then it won’t be too pricey. These chargers often hook to the window so the charger can harness as much power as possible. You can also buy larger chargers for camping, but these can be used around the home too.

3. E-Reader
If you love to read then there’s no better way to enjoy a story then on an e-reader. Although many people prefer to read the old fashioned way, it’s actually more cost efficient to use an e-reader. You can choose from a wide range of options here too and many e-readers are more affordable than ever, so you won’t have to worry about spending a pretty penny. One of the best things about e-readers is you can buy books for less money when you buy them in digital form. There’s actually a wide collection of free books online, so if you’re desperate for something to read then you won’t have to search far. Most e-books are also a discounted price, so you’ll save money on new releases too. There are also many apps that can convert your personal book library into free or reduced priced e-books too, so you won’t have to worry about losing out on your favorite titles when you’re on the go. Another great thing about e-readers is they can be better for your eyes then reading on a phone or laptop. You can also consider the energy the e-reader will save. Since the device has a built in light, you’ll never have to us a lamp to stay up late reading.

4. Rechargeable Batteries
There’s a good chance that many of the items on your holiday list are going to require some form of battery to use. From kids’ toys to gaming controllers and emergency technology, batteries are a huge part of the season. Thus, you may want to consider spending a little extra on the batteries and simply buy a battert recharger. Usually, these come with a few batteries, so you’ll already have a small collection of batteries to help keep the household functions going. These rechargers usually only charge AA and AAA batteries though, so you may want to do some shopping around to find a charger for larger batteries. Although it may cost more for these chargers, it’ll be worth it when you don’t have to worry about throwing money away when it comes to the batteries. Rechargeable batteries usually only cost a bit more than the one use batteries too, so you should be able to build up a collection in no time. Having these batteries will help reduce your carbon footprint and will prevent you from having to add batteries to your shopping list every week.

5. Charging Hub
Again, devices seem to be everywhere in the home, which can often mean there’s many different devices plugged in at once. Apart from drawing a lot of power, this can also be very inconvenient when it comes to waiting for a plug to charge your item. Rather than having many chargers do the job, you can transform the way you charge items with a simple charging hub. This hub allows you to use only one plug while charging several different devices at once. These hubs come in many sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your budget or your charging needs. Some of these hubs even double as other items, such as an alarm clock, which is perfect for saving even more power. These hubs are great for families too, so they may be a great gift for everyone you know.

6. Smart Phone
Although smart phones aren’t exactly on the low budget list, they are one of the best tech devices on the market to save you a bit money. A lot of phones these days allow you to make Wi-Fi calls, which means you can lower your minutes on your phone bill, or you can skip the service altogether. You can also download apps that allow you to text via Wi-Fi. Of course, there’s also many apps that allow you to call, text and message internationally, which will help you save even more money if you have family or friends abroad. Apart from helping you keep in touch, you can easily keep track of your fitness thanks to the built in pedometer that will allow you to manage your health with ease. Some even have health trackers that allow you to input your diet and exercise routine to help you stay on track. If you don’t have a GPS then your smart phone can lend a helping hand at no extra cost. There’s also a wide variety of apps, such as gas and shopping apps that help you find the best deals around.

7. Game Console
Game consoles also aren’t exactly the cheapest item on the market, but they can work to help you save money in many other ways. For starters, they allow you to stream videos which means you can ditch the cable channels that you never watch. You can download apps for most of the basic channels, which means you won’t have to give up your favorite shows. Also, with streaming networks you should be able stay entertained without surrendering to the over-priced cable company. If you do love the option of cable then PlayStation actually has their own form of cable, which is competitive with cable prices. Apart from keeping up with shows and movies, gaming consoles allow you to buy games for cheaper which is a huge bonus if you love to keep up with the latest releases. Not to mention, you can share these games with friends on some of the devices, which can help you save money if you work out a way to split the costs or take turns buying the titles. You can even use your console to workout, which means you won’t need to pay a personal trainer or a gym to keep fit.

8. Fitness Tracker
If you like to have a bit more control over your health then you may want to try out a Fitness Tracker. These devices can be worn as watches and look like fashionable accessories, so you can spend less on bracelets. The trackers come with many different options, so you can choose one that fits your fitness needs or budget. All of the trackers keep track of your footsteps and often give a more accurate reading than your smart phone can. Some will monitor your sleep to offer you suggestions to help you get a better night sleep. You can also input calories and other important information to ensure you’re on the right track. If you’re willing to spend a bit more then you can choose tracker that doubles as a watch. The more expensive trackers will even alert you of phone calls and text messages, so you can skip out on overpriced devices like the iWatch.

9. Smart Power Strip
One of the biggest problems with leaving items plugged in is they continue to draw power even when they’re off. This can be a huge burden on the environment as well as your power bill because most items need to remain plugged in. There is a great solution to this problem though. That is, the smart power strip. This special power strip detects phantom energy draws and cuts them off, so when your item is off it is actually off. This can shave a lot of money off of your power bill. Of course, the power strip will also work to protect your devices from power surges that could otherwise destroy the item.

10. Smart Thermostats
If you have trouble keeping your home the right temperature, then you may want to check out the smart thermostat. These thermostats work hard to keep the home comfortable, while saving the amount of power the home draws for heating and cooling. Smart thermostats learn your habits, so it knows when it needs to heat or cool the home and how much. The device and be programmed, but it also works based on the changes of the household, which will help keep your costs down. These are perfect gifts for students moving into their first apartment or newlyweds, but will also make just about anyone a happy camper.

Technology is a great way to keep those on your gift list happy this holiday season, but it can also be a great way to help you and the recipient save a bit of money. With these tips you should be able to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list and maybe even a little something for yourself. With all of the long term savings, your budget should be thriving again in no time.

Once the Thanksgiving leftovers make it to the fridge and you manage to somehow hide all of your Black Friday shopping from the kids, it may be time to consider this season’s holiday tree. Although every family has their own special tradition for the tree, just about everyone loves to save money on the tree itself as well as decorations. Luckily, there’s many ways you can transform your tree into a beautiful and festive decoration without having to spend a small fortune on it. These ten tips will have you create the tree of your dreams, which is sure to boost the holiday spirit in your home and bring good tidings to all of your guests.

1. Go Plastic
If you’re planning on buying a holiday tree this season then you might want to stray away from the real trees, if you plan on saving some money. Plastic trees are a great option if you don’t want to have to keep sinking money into a tree year after year. Generally, plastic trees can cost a bit, if you can’t find a sale. But, there’s usually lots of sales to choose from. If you have to buy a tree prior to the holiday then you may want to shop around to find a deal on last season’s trees. Usually, these won’t vary in style much, so you should be able to find something you adore. Although it may be hard to do this in stores, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a sale online. Of course, many stores will offer great deals on plastic trees throughout the season, so shop around but don’t settle if you want to get more for your money. If you have a tree for this year, but you want a replacement then hold out. You can easily find a fantastic deal on a tree at a great price after the holiday season. You may also want to consider buying a pre-lit tree, so you won’t have to spend money on lights too. Plastic trees will last for years, so remember you’re making an investment, so you don’t have to stress about the price tag as much. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the fee to haul the tree away. Not to mention, plastic trees are better for the environment!

2. Shop Later
A lot of families simply prefer the beauty of a real tree during the holiday season and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. However, if you want to save money, then the key is to shop at the right time. It’s very tempting to make your way out to the tree lot as soon as it opens, but this isn’t a great idea if you want your tree to remain beautiful on Christmas Day. Depending on your climate and the type of tree you get, you could end up with a fire hazard before the holiday even arrives. The best thing you can do is try to push your shopping a little later. The selection may not be as good, but you’ll find a tree that will last a little longer. Also, when you do buy your tree, make sure to give it plant food and water to ensure it will keep up as long as possible. If you’re paying to cut your own tree down then drying out shouldn’t be a problem. Go a week or two before the holiday and your tree should look amazing for the big day.

3. DIY Tree
If you want to save even more money on a tree then don’t buy one at all. You can easily make one that suits your personality and your budget. For instance, one fun way to create an amazing tree is to use tomato cages. Simply arrange them into the shape of a classic tree and then wrap pine garland or even colorful garland around the cages. You can then decorate it to suit your family’s interests. If you have a very small amount of space or you’re just looking for a very cheap way to make a tree then create yours out of colored paper and pin it on the wall. You can do this with all sorts of paper too to ensure the tree suits your style. Some students have even made their trees out of Post-It notes. Other students and bookworms enjoy making trees out of books. It’s very easy to do and looks cute too. Of course, a natural and easy idea is to bring in a tree branch and decorate it. It’s simple and beautiful!

4. Paper Ornaments
When it comes to actually decorating the tree, one of the best and cheapest ways to have a little fun is by using paper ornaments. This is a very vague concept because it allows you to reach for the stars. For instance, you can easily print out portraits of the family and hang them on the tree using ribbons. Another crafty idea it to have the kids draw and cut out ornaments to put on the tree. This will really make the kids feel like they helped out too, which is always great. The adults in the family can write small messages about their year, good tidings and anything else that comes to mind. Of course, paper snowflakes are always a classic option that will bring fun to the entire family. You may also consider making paper chains to add to the charm.

5. Spice Up Plain Decor
Chances are you, you can find a big container of simple, colored ornaments at your favorite department store. Even dollar stores should have these items at a great price. Sure, you may want some of the bulbs on the tree to be simplistic, but you may also want to add a bit of pizzazz too. These ornaments are great to add stuff to though. For instance, you can have the kids draw on them using paint markers. Another option is to roll them in glue and then roll them in feathers or glitter. If you like a little sparkle then put rhinestones on your ornaments. Your imagination is the limit here. Also, you may want to try to find clear bulbs as these are great for customization. Simply take off the top of the bulb and slip in glitter, pictures, tinsel and anything else that comes to mind. Before you know it, your tree will look outstanding with very little money spent on it!

6. Natural Decor
Mother Nature provides us with a lot of items that can be transformed into beautiful decorations throughout the year. The holiday season is no exception and can help your family bond as you decorate the tree. One of the more common things to do for natural decor is have the family seek out pine cones. This is a great way to start up a scavenger hunt that will save you a lot while still allowing the kids to have fun. Once you have the pine cones then paint them, add glitter or whatever else comes to mind. You can even turn them into adorable little characters. There’s lots of other holiday things you can do with natural items too. For instance, you can easily string up popcorn and other food items to create natural garland. Twigs are also easy to come by any time of the year. With a little paint, glitter and imagination they can become gorgeous decorations. You can also add a natural touch to purchased ornaments. For instance, add some pine needles to a clear ornament for a look everyone will love.

7. Recycled Ornaments
In the season of giving, you can use your decorating skills to give back to Mother Nature. You may start by going through your recycling to see what you can use. Scratch paper can be shredded to create craft supplies for all of your ornaments. An old light bulb can be transformed into a penguin or reindeer with just a touch of paint. You can also make your own reindeer using the corks from the wine you had at Thanksgiving. Toilet rolls are great for making wrapped candy ornaments as well as other fun items, like a decorative birdhouse. Also, if you have bottle caps lying around the house then you’ll have a blast transforming them into snowmen, Santas and reindeers. Apart from the craft supplies you use on this project, you shouldn’t spend a penny.

8. Toys
Another great option for the holiday tree is to have kids pick out some of their toys. Then, place them on the tree for a great style that will even impress Santa Claus himself. Items like dinosaurs, Barbies and even cars can be festive and fun for the kids. It will also allow them to show their personality during the season. Of course, when it comes to placing toys on the tree, you may want to make sure they’re toys the kids rarely ever want to play with. Old toys, perhaps from their younger years, are probably going to be your best options because, like clockwork, the moment the toy is on the tree, the child will most likely want to play with it again. Also, if the child insist on putting a favorite toy on the tree then you may keep it towards the bottom, so the child can easily gain access.

9. Thrift Store
If you love vintage Christmas trees or ornaments then the thrift store is the place to go for your holiday shopping. Most stores will have an abundance of items during this time of the year, so you should have an easy time finding a wide assortment of items. Of course, you may not get items that are in the best of states, but a lot of thrift store items are perfect to refurbish or to give your own special touch. When it comes to buying Christmas trees from thrift stores, you may want to ask around to see if you can look in the box and possibly even assemble the tree before you buy it. This will help save you money as you won’t waste your time on a tree that doesn’t actually function. Generally, you should be able to see if ornaments are broken, but you might want to give them a quick glance over before you make the final purchase.

10. Clearance
Of course, if you’re looking forward to buying items for your tree or the tree itself, then the best time to save is right after the holidays. As soon as Box Day arrives, stores will be busy putting their items on clearance. This could mean drops as high as 80%. However, when it comes to these sales you have to be fast and make sure you’re at the store before everything disappears. Stores will continue to discount for days after the holiday too, so as long as you find the sales in time, you should get the best possible deal. You may also want to surf the net for great discount items throughout the off season.

Your Christmas tree doesn’t have to cost you a small fortune. With these ten tips you should be able to decorate your tree with ease without having to take away from your Christmas fund. With a few simple techniques to save you big time, you may find that the holiday tree is one of the most frugal aspects of the season.

As November slowly transforms into December, you may be trying to figure how you can give your children a great Hanukkah without spending a bundle on gifts. With the true meaning of the holiday the concentration of the celebration, it’s often hard to find gifts that will last the full length of the holiday. Frugality is a big need during the cold season, so splurging on gifts can leave you in a bind. Luckily, there’s a lot of amazing items out there that will make your kids feel amazing without totally spoiling them. So, this Hanukkah, you can make the season more about the religious aspect of the holiday and less about the gifts thanks to these big money saving ideas.

1. Coupon Book
If you’re looking to bring a smile to your kids’ faces this holiday then a coupon book will be a great option that won’t cost you a thing, at first anyway. The best thing about chore books is you can customize them to suit each child. You can decorate the coupon book to suit your child’s interests, the holiday, or to suit each specific coupon. Of course, if you want to keep things simple then you can easily just write out the coupon, which might work better for teenagers anyway. The coupons can include a wide assortment of things. For instance, for younger children it can include an extra 30 minutes of TV or videogame time. Older kids may like a day where they can skip chores or have a friend spend the night. Another great option is to offer a date with mom, dad or both parents. This will give the kids one on one time whenever they feel they need it the most. You can also make the coupons family oriented by adding in a few coupons to pick a movie out of turn on movie night or to pick the game on game night.

2. Snacks
Kids love junk food, but it’s not always great to give it to them on a regular basis. So, instead of giving in to their cravings throughout the year, you can use the junk food as a special gift. This will not only make them happy, but will teach them that splurging on food is okay on some occasions but not all of the time. So, you may want to find out what kind of snacks your kids have been craving. From sweets like candy bars to savory items like chips, you can easily find enough treats to make a pretty amazing gift basket for one of the days of Hanukkah. You may want to include beverages into the mix to cut down on sugary drinks throughout the year. Of course healthy snacks are always a great idea too. Some children may even want special homemade items, which will make the gift basket even more frugal.

3. Books
When it comes to gifts, a book can go a lot further than most things in life. Even if your child isn’t a huge fan of reading, there should be something special you can get them that will make their day extraordinary. For instance, younger children may benefit from coloring books. You can follow their interests or even buy them based on the holiday. Educational books also come in handy, particularly with kids who love to explore new subjects. If you have a tween or teen on your hands then it might be great to purchase a diary or a book you know will help them get through the trying period of their life. Of course, you may not want to rule out literature here either. There’s lots of age old tales that will help your children grow to become better people. Of course, you could also follow trends, their favorite authors or even look around for books that are age appropriate at your local book store. The best thing about books is they’re not very expensive, so you won’t go bankrupt after shopping for the entire family.

4. Hanukah Games
One of the most fun elements of the holiday, in most kids’ views, is the Hanukah games. There’s a lot of games available that can be played with the family or with friends, which make kids really love the holiday. So, when you’re looking for gifts, you may want to take this into consideration. One great idea is to provide your child with a new dreidel. There’s lots of options when it comes to dreidels, so you can always work to make the gift as age appropriate as possible. Wooden dreidels are great for older kids if you’re sure they won’t end up losing them. If you’re crafty then you may even want to consider making your own dreidel to show your child their gift was made with love. These days, there’s also many Hanukkah games on the market, such as card games or even board games which might keep kids entertained. The more you look around, the more options you’ll find.

5. Hobby Items
If you typically buy your kids toys or other items that will simply be a passing craze then it may be wise to skip out on these items this year. Instead of blowing money on something that will more than likely be forgotten in a few years, you could always purchase a gift to help your child with a hobby they’re interested in. From catching bugs to playing an instrument, there’s a lot of special gadgets that will help your kids improve on their chosen hobbies. For instance, if you have a scientist in the making then a telescope or microscope may be in order. Musician may enjoy a new set of reeds, a music book or even an upgraded instrument. Artist might enjoy new paints or some canvas to help bring their masterpiece to life. Even athletes could use new shoes or supplies to help take their game to the next level. There’s lots of hobbies you can endorse, so look around to see if there’s items that will make the fun last for years longer.

6. School Supplies
Although the kids may pretend school is out forever during their winter break, it may be wise to use the holiday to help them restock the items they’ll need for the next semester of school. Sure, the kids might roll their eyes at first, but when they get back to school and realize how much their cool new backpack helps then they’ll definitely be a bit happier about the gifts. You don’t even have to concentrate on the obvious items. Instead, you might want to think out of the box. For instance, if your child is taking math then a calculator that’s faster or easier to use might be a great investment. You may even consider a new gym bag or special towel to make gym class a lot easier and more comfortable. Of course, the basics like customized pencils or special folders may also make this gift a treasure for your student. You may even want to consider buying school clothing items, such as a new uniform or a school approved jacket that your child has had his or her eye on.

7. Clothing
Apart from school clothes, your child may have a special look they’re showing off, which will make clothes a simple gift for the holiday season. Luckily, during this time of the year, lots of clothing items are on sale. This is especially true if you manage to catch Black Friday sales. If you have teens then it may be easier just to give them a gift card to buy a little something new to support their wardrobe. Of course, shopping for larger items like jackets, tops and pants don’t have to be your only option, especially if you’re on a budget. Socks and underwear are always a good buy and will help prevent you from having to buy when it’s not as convenient. If you are willing to splurge then now may be a great time to buy your child a new pair of shoes, especially if they will help your child get through the long winter months.

8. Heirloom Piece
Hanukkah is a great time to give gifts that come straight from the heart. So, if you have a piece that’s been passed down from generation to generation, then this may be the time to share it with your child. Of course, this is based on your child’s age and maturity level, so don’t pass down something valuable to you if you feel your child isn’t ready. Depending on the child’s age, an heirloom piece may be what gives the holiday its charm. It’s a perfect way to bring the connection to the holiday, so your child always associates it with family. If you don’t have an heirloom piece to pass down, then create one. When it comes down to passing an item down, it’s truly all in the story. You can easily come up with an item that means something to you, or brought you good luck. It’s a fun way to create memories too and will help your legacy live on.

9. Toys
Sometimes it’s hard to avoid giving out toys during the holiday, especially with holiday ads playing all of the time. This doesn’t mean you should go overboard on the toy buying though. Instead, come up with one toy you know your child will go crazy over and stick with it. If you want to make a wise purchase ask yourself how long the toy will last. Sometimes, it’s simply a passing trend, while other times your child has a genuine interest in the toy they’re asking for. If you do plan on buying toys for the kids then remember to shop frugally and intelligently. Always keep an eye out for sales to ensure you find the best possible deal on the toys you plan to purchase. Although most of the best price cuts will happen after Hanukkah is over, you may still find some awesome deals that will help out your budget. Also, coupons will certainly come in handy during this time of the year, so make sure to browse around online to see if you can find something that will help you out.

10. Chocolate
Gelt is a huge part of Hannukah, but it often is only used in games. Not to mention, sometimes the gelt you buy doesn’t taste all that great. So, you may want to consider using your skills in the kitchen to whip up some homemade gelt for the kids. This is a great gift that will show them just how much you love them. You can even use the golden coin shells from the gelt you buy to make it look more authentic. Of course, gelt doesn’t have to be the only chocolate gift available. You can also make chocolate into fun Hanukkah shapes that will suit the occasion. Of course, I’m sure the children will also appreciate their very own fudge or custom made chocolates that will drive their sweet tooth crazy.

Hanukkah is meant to be a holiday shared with friends and family, but sometimes the commercial aspect gets in the way. These ten gift ideas should help you cut down on the amount you spend on gifts this year, so you can bring the holiday back to its roots without disappointing the family. Not to mention, your budget will thank you for saving so much money during the shopping season.

Before you know it, winter is going to be barreling at full force with all of its fun weather. It may be wise to start thinking of a game plan for little activities you can do with the family or on your own, in order to keep everyone entertained when outside play isn’t exactly an option. Fortunately, when it comes to winter fun, lots of places love to host activities that are sure to be a hit with your whole family. The best thing is, many of these activities are actually free or a low cost, so you won’t have to worry about cutting down your budget for holiday feasts or presents. So, get out your day planner and let the fun begin because these ten ideas are sure to leave your family thrilled about the upcoming season.

1. Visit Santa
With the holiday season on its way, there’s sure to be a whole lot of malls hosting an event with Santa Claus. This can actually be one of the easiest outings for the whole family and will generally leave the kids in the mood for the holiday spirit. Sure, seeing Santa often means standing in line for quite some time, so you may want to consider bringing a care package with holiday coloring sheets or music players filled with your child’s favorite holiday songs. You can also skip out on some of the costs of this event by bringing someone along that can snap a quick photo of your child with Santa, because sometimes the photos offered at the mall are pretty pricey. If you’re not much of a mall-Santa family then you may want to check around your area to see if there is going to be a Christmas town or village open. These are usually filled with activities for kids and will allow the children to see Santa is a less stressful environment.

2. Check Out the Holiday Lights
Without fail, just before to just after Thanksgiving, people will begin to set up their holiday lights. So, make the décor a quick way to enjoy some time with your family. All you have to do is hop in the car and let the magic begin. You may even consider bringing along holiday inspired snacks and drinks while playing your favorite holiday music. There should be a list of light competitions circulating around the city, so you’ll be able to figure out which neighbors are competing. This should allow you to check out some of the best lit houses in the region, which will bring magic to the season. Also, you may want to see if your community or a nearby town or city plans to host a light show. Generally, you can drive through these shows for free, which will help you save even more money on your holiday adventures.

3. Go to the Snow
If you’re excited to celebrate the snow this season, but simply aren’t getting to see any then it may be time to bundle up the kids and head towards the crisp powdery fun. This, of course, will take some time and planning, but it’ll be worth it when you see your kids playing in the first snow of the season. Simply keep an eye on the region where you live and head out when you get news of snow. Of course, you should also know if you have a place to stay or if you can make it a mere day trip. Also, you should make sure you know the road conditions before you make any decisions. You obviously won’t want to drive into a blizzard and end up trapped in the city. It might be wise to plan to bring along a few things to use in the snow, so you can stretch the fun out. Of course, planning your trip will be even better if you know someone in the region or if you choose a park to play in during your snow fun.

4. Grab a Ski/Snowboard Class
If you get a lot of snow in the region, then you may want to add a snow sport to your summer activity. You may want to call around and see if any of the slopes in your area offer discounted days or offer classes to groups. This can be one of the biggest ways to save, as a lot of places with heavily discount a larger group. Of course, if you really want to save money then you may want to simply check out Groupon and see if there are lessons available there. Generally, you can find a great deal here and they often have many coupons available during this season, particularly during the holidays when business slows down a bit. You may even be able to rope a deal on a hotel or resort stay, which could make your getaway even more exciting. If you aren’t having any luck with discounts, then hire a student to teach you. You may be surprised by how much money you save!

5. Spa Day
Nothing will heat you up quite like a day at the spa. Of course, this probably isn’t a getaway for the whole family, but it is great for couples or anyone that simply needs a break. Try to shop around for deals on spas or even simple coupons on a massage or other spa activity. The great thing about spas is they will also warm you up, so you can feel even more comfortable after a long day. If you’re not having luck with any deals then you may want to take a step back and see what kind of spa you can organize in your home. There’s lots of great DIY spa things you can do for next to nothing in the home that will still warm you up and make you feel totally relaxed during your simple winter getaway.

6. Seek City Activities
When it comes to winter time, no one creates fun activities quite like the cities. Between parades and holiday themed décor, there’s no doubt you’ll find a bit of winter fun when you venture into the city. Generally, cities will come up with things to do such as ice skating. This can be a lot of fun for the whole family and usually doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Another great thing that many cities offer is free to low cost concerts, which will help bring joy to an afternoon or evening. Often, you can enjoy orchestrated music simply by taking a stroll in park. Of course, one of the more iconic things to do is enjoy a carriage ride through the beautiful seasonally decorated city. Christmas tree lighting as well as major caroling groups are also a huge part of the winter season in the city, so make a plan to commute to a nearby city or see what your own has to offer. There’s guaranteed to be lots of fun throughout the blustery months.

7. Cooking Class
The winter season is all about finding ways to keep your body warm and comfortable. So, why not grab a cooking class to learn exciting new tricks that will allow you to keep your family happy throughout the cold months. Cooking class often don’t cost a whole lot, so you can master some skills while the weather keeps you indoors without having to worry about your budget getting in the way. You can also come up with your own cooking circle if you don’t want to pay for classes. This would allow each person in the group to have a turn teaching everyone else in the group how to make a specific dish. This can easily be done for free, apart from the cost of ingredients, and will help you bond with your friends without having to plan around the weather. You can also bring your new dishes to home, which will help keep the house warm thanks to the oven and will warm up the hearts of your family.

8. Library Outing
Nothing says winter fun like snuggling up with a warm beverage and your favorite book. Of course, your local library is good for more than just providing you with a good book. Usually, libraries are filled with activities to help keep the community educated and entertained. However, a lot of the activities aren’t often advertised, so you may have to do a bit of looking around in order to find what you’re look for. Also, libraries are great about starting up programs when kids are out of school. So, you may want to see what they have in store for you and your family during the winter holidays. Best of all, these events are usually totally free, which means you can have a blast without worrying about your budget.

9. Green House/Botanical Garden
Step away from the winter madness by stepping into a green house or botanical garden. The best thing about these gardens is they’ll help you forget it’s actually winter time, if only for a few hours. You can usually get into a green house for fairly cheap. Many cities will have them in order to keep up with flowers and some produce during the cold season. Some green houses will even allow you to volunteer, if you’re a big fan of gardening. This could prove to be a great lesson for the family. Of course, you can always make your own DIY green house if you want to spend more time with flowers and plants. Botanical gardens are a bit pricey, but when you step inside of one you will be thankful. The beautiful flowers will make you feel like you’re stepped into a tropical client, which will help warm you up and entice your imagination.

10. Amusement Park
During the winter months, a lot of parks are in the off-season because of the weather and less tourist activity. So, this could be a great time to spend at your favorite amusement park, especially if you’re looking to save a bit of money. With the off-season, tickets generally decrease in price, which will mean you can get the whole family in for a lot less than you’d have to pay during other times. You also won’t end up spending as much on food or other items in the park. Not to mention, the lines for rides won’t be so frustrating, so you might get more enjoyment out of it. Of course, with the cold weather you may have to skip out on some rides. All the same, if you do choose a park in areas that generally don’t see a lot of change, such as California or Florida, then you shouldn’t have to worry about this at all. All the same, there are some rides that shine during the winter months. So, make sure to shop around to see if you can afford an exciting getaway for your family while the parks are still not as populated or pricey.

This winter, you don’t have to stay cooped up while the snow and wind moves around you. Instead, you’ll be able to have the time of your life with your friends and family. Your budget won’t have to get in your way thanks to these ten exciting winter activities that are sure to make everyone in your family feel excited that winter has finally approached.

With the holidays coming up, there’s a good chance you’re probably in a panic trying to get your home to look nice for all of your guests. Of course, you could simply want to treat yourself to fresh carpets. No matter what the reason, you’ve probably discovered that having nice carpets could cost you a whole lot of money if you don’t look in the right places. Don’t worry yet though! There’s actually plenty of ways you can help your carpets look amazing while saving some major money. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing a simple cleaning or you want all new carpets, these ten tips will help you find the savings you need this holiday season.

1. Vacuum Often
It doesn’t matter how dirty or clean your carpets get, one key way to keep them looking great is to vacuum often. Try to work it into your routine at least once a week, so you won’t have to deal with your carpet looking old and overly used. When you don’t vacuum often, it allows dirt to embed in the fibers of the carpet. The longer you go, the more comfortable the dirt gets, which means the dirtier your carpet is going to look even when it’s clean. This is especially bad when you have lighter colored carpets, so try to keep up with the vacuuming if you can or purchase a robot that will do all of the work for you. One of the key times to vacuum is when you’ve freshly deep cleaned the carpets or you purchase new carpets. This not only helps you get in the habit, but will also keep the fresh fibers from being plagued with dirt, dust and anything else that finds its way on your carpet.

2. Use Rugs
When it comes to keeping things clean, rugs are a great option and they don’t have to cost a whole lot of money. You can find a cheap rug at most department stores, especially if you’re only looking for a simple design or solid color. The best thing about rugs are, they can easily and cheaply be replaced in most cases. So, if they end up stained or develop a smell then you won’t have to worry about hiring professional cleaners or hiring someone to install new rugs. If you’re getting brand new carpet then you might want to consider buying a new rug to simply help out when it comes to avoiding stains, especially when it comes to the Thanksgiving crowd. Of course, if you’re looking for a cheap way to hide your carpet then a rug is also the answer.

3. Move Furniture
Believe it or not, but getting in touch with your feng shui side might help you keep your carpet looking nice and neat. Organizing furniture is a great way to help make any room look new and fresh, but it’s especially good for your carpets. After having your furniture a certain way in the home, only specific areas of the carpet are exposed to the spill ranges and other potential stains your home faces. By simply moving around the furniture, you can expose carpet that looks fresher than ever. Plus, if you’re strategic in your planning, you can easily cover up old stains that may be eyesores. Rotating furniture every few months may not only help make your home look and feel more appealing, but may also help bring convenience to your home during the passing seasons. So, you may want to check out what feng shui options you can utilize to make this option work wonders for your holiday celebrations.

4. Anti-Stain Spray
If you have kids then you’ve probably heard of the power of anti-stain sprays, such as scotch guard. This amazing spray actually helps protect all sorts of things from stains, which means your items will look good for a lot longer, even with toddlers in the home! Another great thing about scotch guard is it makes things a lot easier to clean up because the spray doesn’t allow anything to soak into the carpet. The best thing about this spray is it actually isn’t all that expensive, so you can probably get the scotch guard on your carpet before the guests arrive, despite the holiday budget. Of course, if your carpet already has lots of stains then it could lock them in and it certainly won’t hide them from your guests. However, if you’re worried about guests causing more damage than this is the route to go. Scotch guarding your carpet will probably do the best work when used on new carpet though. Don’t worry, you won’t have to hire someone to come install it either. In fact, it’s totally easy to do on your own!

5. Know Your Stains
One of the best things you can do for your carpet is understand how to remove a wide assortment of stains. If you’re already on top of what’s going on with the carpet then there’s a great chance that you can totally avoid the stain becoming a permanent part of your carpet. For instance, if you find your child’s craft time was a little too intense and they somehow managed to get glue everywhere then all you need to do is moisten cotton or fabric with a little rubbing alcohol. This will allow you to get rid of the glue without leaving a trace. If your manicure wasn’t as easy going as you expected then use nail polish remover to remove whatever polish ends up on the carpet. Also, wine can be one of the worst stains, especially around the holiday. This can easily be cured with a mixture of water and dish washing detergent. If you have kids then you will probably also want to know some of the more complex stain solutions. For instance, kool aid! This favored kid beverage is great to drink, but will destroy your carpet. Luckily, a bit of white vinegar and water will help get this stain out of your life for good.

6. DIY Deep Clean
When it comes to giving carpets a newer look, without actually replacing the carpet, one of the best things you can do is give the carpets a deep cleaning. Now, this can cost quite a bit of money if you pay someone to do it for you. Between the cost of labor, the machine and cleaning supplies, you’ll probably end up with a price tag that might mean a few less desserts and sides at the Thanksgiving table. There is one really easy solution to this problem though. Do it yourself! You can easily rent a machine from a wide variety of stores, so make sure to look around and see who has the best deal. Of course, if you think you’ll need to clean frequently then you may consider buying a machine. There’s lots of great refurbished models on the market, but you may also find a good newer model at a great price or on sale. You don’t even have to stress about the cleaning solution as there’s lots of DIY recipes online, or you can follow coupons and sales. Generally, the cleaning supplies won’t set you back too much though.

7. No Shoe Policy
With the holidays upon us, you’ll probably have a lot of feet coming in and out of your house. Not to mention, the weather isn’t exactly the nicest during this time of the year, so your guests are probably dragging in snow, mud, dead leaves and a wide assortment of other potential carpet stains. So, if you’re looking to save your carpet, or at least help keep it cleaner then you may want to institute a no shoe policy in the home. Simply set up an area for guests to store their shoes and everything should be good. Of course, you may want to put down something to help keep the mud and other potential stains off of the entry way area. A cheap shower curtain or even a trash bag could help solve the problem. To promote your no shoe state of mind you may want to add a fun touch to the concept. For instance, you can have a wacky sock competition.

8. Find a Special
It doesn’t matter if you’re planning on buying new carpet or just looking for a cleaning, because finding a special on your desired service is the best way to save some money. Luckily, around this time of the year, you should run into lots of special as everyone will be looking for an added boost during the holiday season. If you call up cleaners in your area and ask about their specials, you should be able to find the perfect deal for you. You may even be able to haggle a bit or have the business compete for your business. Carpet is the same story as many stores will host sales on new carpet. You may have to pay full price for some of the other materials and labor though, so if you’re not 100% satisfied with the deal try to hold off.

9. Know When To Buy
If you plan on actually buying carpet, you should keep in mind when to buy the product. There’s lots of times in the year when carpet is pretty pricey, so you want to avoid shopping at all in these peak periods. Even if there is a sale going on, the chances are you will save next to nothing in comparison to just waiting. Luckily, the holidays are a great time to shop for carpet. Most people have their budget going towards food, gifts and other items to celebrate the holidays. Thus, a lot of carpet stores are looking for the extra business to help keep them afloat during the dry season. If you plan accordingly, you may get a pretty amazing deal that will leave you amazed. Another great time to buy carpet is around Spring Break. While most people want to escape for the week, these stores will be lacking in business. Plus, with the weather a bit nicer, it might be a great time have your home installed with new carpet, so you can start fresh after the muddy winter months. You should avoid buying during the preholiday though. For instance, October and November are not a good idea because most people are in holiday preparation mode. Summer is also a terrible idea for new carpet as is tax season when everyone has an influx of money.

10. DIY Install
Of course, if you’re planning on buying new carpet, there’s one final step you can take to help keep the costs down. That is, install the new carpet yourself. This may feel pretty intimidating, but you don’t have to worry about it because it’s really not as hard as it looks. There’s plenty of tutorials online, so you can easily figure it out without having to go to great lengths. Plus, with video tutorials all over the place, you may find installing carpet is your new favorite, albeit expensive, hobby. All in all, this DIY project will help you feel like a bigger part of your home and will give you some major bragging rights over the holidays. Plus, you won’t have to stress over your budget as much.

Keeping your carpets fresh and clean is easier said than done. If you’re not careful then, before you know it, you could pour thousands into the carpets in your home. These ten simple tricks will help you on your way to keeping your home’s carpet looking outstanding whether it’s new or old!

The holiday season is one of the most popular times to buy jewelry, which could lead you to spend a lot more money than you expected. Whether you’re shopping for engagement rings or weddings bands for the upcoming season, or you simply want to get someone special one of the trendy items marketed during this period, there are a few ways for you to cut back on the amount you spend. With a little know how, you won’t have to fret over fine jewelry shopping. Instead, you can enjoy the anticipation of seeing the perfect reaction to your shimmering gift. So, get ready to shop because the holiday sales are sure to call your name soon.

1. Hand-Me-Downs
During the holidays, many believe the season is the perfect time to pop the question with friends and family around. It’s no wonder that engagement season begins during this period thanks to the warmth of the occasion. Weddings are also big during this time of the year for those who want to avoid the popular spring time rush, while still allowing for a little winter romance. Thus, you may want to take some time to ask a relative in your family for a hand-me-down ring. A lot of families love to pass rings down from generation to generation, in order to keep tradition in the family. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a ring for your fiancée, bride or groom as many families will be more than willing to help out. Plus, it may make the love of your life feel special knowing they received a ring with a story behind it. Of course, holiday parties are also a popular time to want to spend a little extra on vintage styles so you’ll look your best. You may want to take a little time out to ask family members if you can have, buy or borrow a specific piece that’s been in your family. This will help save you some money, while allowing you to look your best.

2. Shop Second Hand
There’s no rule saying jewelry has to come from a chain store, or that it even has to be new. It doesn’t matter what your shopping for as there are a lot of cheaper options when you look at thrift stores, pawn shops, yard sales, or auctions. One of the most common places to shop for pricier pieces of jewelry is probably the pawn shop as you’re going to find a lot of higher quality pieces there due to the nature of the store. Thrift stores may have a lot of options too, but you may not be able to find higher end items. Of course, auctions are always a great place for fine jewelry, but you have to know how to play your cards right if you want to win the piece at a lower price. If you’re just shopping for jewelry to wear to a party then try to stick with yard sales or thrift stores, as you should be able to find many pieces you can dress up with a few DIY techniques. You should always be aware of what you’re buying, no matter the store though as some people or businesses may try to pass off some items as gold or gemstones when they are merely imitations.

3. Clearance
It doesn’t matter what your favorite chain store is, they probably have a clearance section that can save you some big bucks on fine jewelry. Even department stores that sell fine jewelry will have a special clearance section that could save you quite a bit. Generally, the stores don’t advertise the clearance section in store because they won’t make as much money off of the items. So, when you go in to look around you might want to ask to see if they have anything in the section for you to look at. If you don’t want to look in store then go on their website. You may be surprised by the items they have on discount as well as the amount they’ve reduced the price. Of course, some of the items may have slight defects, but if they do they’re generally nothing you will notice with the naked eye.

4. Shop Online
You may not believe it, but shopping online for jewelry, especially engagement rings, can really save you a whole lot of money. Online jewelers can reach a larger market, which means they can afford to offer you a generous price on their items. Plus, most of these online stores offer exclusive deals, flash sales and promotions that cut more off of the price tag of their items. The best thing about shopping online for jewelry is you can feel free to browse around without having someone follow you around. You can also hop on another site to compare the price. Apart from the freedom to shop with ease, online jewelers can often offer you customized options to make your purchase even more personal to you. If you’re worried about shipping, then you’ll probably be pleased to know that most companies ship for free with insurance if a customer spends more than a specified amount of money. The only thing to be leery about is websites that you’re unfamiliar with. Make sure to look for reviews on the company before you take the leap and purchase a pricey item.

5. Wholesale
When it comes to shopping, you can save money on just about anything and everything if you can only buy if from a wholesale warehouse. Luckily, there’s quite a few wholesale jewelers both on and offline, which will come in handy for your shopping adventures. Before you go out shopping, try looking up wholesale dealers in your area to see if you can find one that isn’t too far away. You may be surprised that some of your bulk stores will carry wholesale jewelry, which will mean you’ll save more than you expected. Of course, if you have no luck locally, then online has a wide variety of wholesale websites that will give you the star treatment without the price tag. Of course, you may have to tailor your ideas to suit some of the wholesale items.

6. Skip Chain Jewelers
Usually, a lot of shopper’s first instinct tells them to start their journey at a chain store, largely because the name is well known and often well-advertised. Although this is a great way to check on prices initially and to get an idea of what you’re looking for, it’s probably not a great idea to purchase from this type of store. Generally, chains tend to mark up prices, even when they say they’re hosting a sale. Your best bet is to actually check out some independent stores in the area, so you can shop at a price that won’t break your budget entirely. Independent dealers are also generally more willing to help you out when it comes to meeting your budgeting needs. Some may even allow you to make payments on your jewelry or to put it on layaway.

7. Always Compare Prices
One of the major problems with jewelry shopping is you have to be sure to compare prices as much as you possibly can. Sometimes, you may come up with the same or close to the same price at many stores, but there’s a few occasions when you may find a deal that will knock your socks off. The key is to check out as many stores as you can in your area. You should also spend some time online seeing if there is a better deal or an item at a lower price that’s similar to what you want. If you love shopping apps then you can easily come up with a variety of prices simply by typing in or scanning an item. This is a great way to speed up the process, but looking around yourself is always more reliable.

8. Know What You’re Looking For
If you already have a general idea of what you want in your fine jewelry then you’ve already done yourself a world of good This will allow you to go into a store and not be coaxed into buying something more expensive or something you’re not interested in. If you can, bring in a photo of the item you want, so the jeweler can give you an estimate or at least help you out when it comes to finding something similar. It may also be wise to know what you’re looking for in a metal or stone. For instance, the weight of the metal is important as is the 4 C’s of a stone. These will help you save money while also helping you to avoid getting ripped off.

9. Hold Out For Sales
Sometimes, the best way to save money is to actually wait it out. A lot of the time, the piece you’re looking for won’t be at a great price until a sale rolls around. Luckily, this time of the year is filled with sales, so you should be able to find a lot of items at a price that won’t hurt your budget. Generally, most stores will hold special holiday clear outs which will offer a wide range of popular items at a reduced price. Although these prices may seem temping, you might want to hold out for the after holiday sales. These are perfect if you’re looking to purchase one of the seasonal items that are popular during the year. Generally, these items will hit the clearance sales after the holidays, so patience is sure to bring savings to your bank account if you can resist the temptation.

10. Know the Details
One of the best ways to keep your savings at a maximum is to know all of the details for the item you wish to buy. For starters, ring size is a huge must. If you’re planning on buying someone a surprise then there’s lots of ways you can figure out the ring size without tipping your special someone off. For instance, you may want to take a ring from their jewelry box and bring it into a store for measurement. If you’re shopping online then there’s a few ways you can figure out your size without having to set foot in a store. Another important thing to keep into consideration is allergies. Some people have adverse reactions to certain metals, which means you may want to look for an alternative or you might want to skip out on jewelry like earrings. Style is also something to consider when you’re looking at gifting a piece of jewelry. If you’re positive you know all of these things then you should be well on your way to saving money without having to worry about refund details.

Jewelry is such a huge part of the holiday season, which is why so many people overspend on these items each season. There are many ways you can avoid the huge price tag of shopping though. With these simple tips you should be able to avoid a lot of the problems that come with jewelry shopping as well as financial issues that burden the season.

Thanksgiving is upon us, which means you probably have a whole lot of shopping on your mind. This time of the year can be pretty rough on the budget, especially if you plan on enjoying all of the sales that hit on the day after Thanksgiving and the following Monday. Of course, there are a few ways you can avoid over spending or falling for deals that simply aren’t worth the time of day. With these ten tips, you should be able to figure out where you stand on these fast-paced holiday shopping events. Now, you can kick back and relax while making your game plan, thanks to your new shopping know-how that won’t leave you hurting the day after your shopping spree.

1. Make a List
One of the wisest moves you can make during this holiday season is to make a list and, yes, check it twice. If you have to, write down all of the people you plan to shop for and specific gift ideas that you’d like to get them. You can also do this list for household items you know you need. This will help you keep your eye on the prize when you actually make it into a store. You may want to make a rule for yourself that prevents you from straying from the list too. If you can hold on to the list while shopping it may help you from straying and buying items that you know you don’t need. Impulse shopping will be a lot easier to avoid too, since you already know what you’re looking for and you’ll be less likely to walk around aisles you don’t need to shop in. The list will also help you keep track of spending and who you still need to shop for so you’ll be ready for the second big day of shopping.

2. Know Your Sales
It doesn’t matter if you plan to attack the sales on foot or with your keyboard, one of the best ways to maximize your savings is to understand all of the sales that are happening. A few weeks prior to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you may want to start snooping around for hints at sales. Usually, social media pages will have lots of clues or outright advertisements letting you know what you can save on via the store. Joining newsletters is also a great idea if you want the insider scoop for each of your favorite stores. Of course, you should also tackle sales ads and hold on to ads you like so that you can plan around them. Simply knowing what you can buy where will help you get to the sale in time to enjoy the savings. It will also allow you a quick and painless way to compare prices without having to miss out on some of the best deals of the day.

3. Budget Well
It’s incredibly important to triple check your budget before you go shopping. You don’t want to over extend yourself during this season, especially with a big holiday feast already on your weekly grocery bill. Rather, make sure your budget is a healthy range, so you don’t have stress over bills or stretching food for the next few weeks. If you’re going Black Friday shopping then you might want to consider taking cash with you, unless you have card rewards. This will stop you from overspending because you won’t have any way to pay if you go over the budget. Cyber Monday will require you to use a bit of discipline though as the only option you have for shopping is via credit or debit card. However, simply knowing your budget will make you self-consciously shop frugally and will help you keep your eye on items you actually planned on buying, rather than flash deals you never even imagined you’d purchase.

4. Know When To Buy
Knowing is half the battle when it comes to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Each day has a wide selection of deals, but specific days cater to specific items. So, by knowing what to buy when, you can actually avoid the item on the day you know isn’t going to provide you with the best deal. For starters, if you have your eye on a new TV or laptop then you have two options to consider. If you’re fond of brand name items then you may want to hold out for Cyber Monday as they offer more deals on popular brands than Black Friday. On the other hand, if brand name doesn’t mean anything to you then Black Friday has some exceptional deals on non-brand TVs and laptops. If clothes are on your agenda then Black Friday is the place to be. You can find all of the best fashions on sale and, since you’ll be shopping in stores, you will have the chance to try on the items so you won’t have to make returns. If home appliances are what you need then Cyber Monday will bring the deals to you. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for large or small appliances, shopping online will get them to you for a lot less. Of course, if toys are your big deal then the deals are pretty much so-so on both days. You may want to hold out until 2 weeks prior to Christmas when toys take a price decrease. However, if you’re worried you’ll miss out on the “it” toy then go with your gut feeling.

5. Gather Coupons
Most stores will still accept coupons on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so don’t forget them when you go shopping. When it comes to couponing during these dates, you may want to look a few weeks prior to the big event. Of course, you should always pay attention to rules, restrictions and expiration dates so you can make the task a lot easier for the poor cashier that has to check you out during such a huge rush. One of the best places to look for coupons is manufacturer’s websites as these coupons often provide you with some pretty hefty discounts that can stack with the sale. You should also look online for special discount codes that are sure to cut down your price even more. If you’re military or are eligible for other discounts call up the store to see if there’s a special code you can use to get your discount. This will help you save even more without having to go to great lengths.

6. Be Leery of Websites
One of the big problems with shopping online is there are many stores that don’t offer secure purchasing and some that are flat out looking to rip people off. So, when you’re looking for deals on Cyber Monday, try to be as cautious as possibly. Generally, if there is a deal that is too good to be true then chances are it probably is. This is especially the case if you’re looking at a site you don’t recognize or that you’ve never heard of. Before you buy from a new shop, make sure to use the internet to research it. There’s a lot of websites that will offer reviews of various online stores, so make sure to poke around a lot of these sites. Generally, if a website is a scam it will pop up in your search engine right away, as there is a strong community of shoppers that want to prevent such an action from occurring to other shoppers. There’s also a few key things you should look for when it comes to any website that will help cut down on scams or identity theft.

7. Be Early
Black Friday shopping means setting your alarm clock for an absurd hour in order to make it to the store in time for deals. Generally, you need to be a few hours early if you want to actually get to a sale in time. This is especially true if you live in a larger city as competition for your sale may be a lot more intense. Sadly, being 15 minutes early to a sale simply won’t do it, unless the item is unpopular. So, if you’re looking to save make sure you know how early you need to be. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should ignore your health. Try to get enough sleep before going shopping. You should also eat and stay well hydrated. This will help keep your head in the shopping game, while allowing you to make wiser decisions that won’t cost you an arm and a leg extra.

8. Use Your Rewards Cards
Although it’s not always the wisest to shop on credit cards, you may want to do so if you have a card that offers you a lot of rewards though. Some credit cards will even boost up the points for holiday shopping, which may make spending the extra money on the card worth every penny. Of course, not every card is made equal so make sure you know which cards offer what before you end up spending a lot of money with them. You should also use your store rewards cards. These tend to function differently too, but they will offer you a little more incentive to shop. For instance, some of these cards will take even more money off of the final price of your cart. Other cards will give you points for shopping, so you can redeem them for more money later on.

9. Seek Out Free Shipping
If Cyber Monday is where you plan on doing quite a bit of money, then you might want to look around to see which sites will be hosting free shipping offers during the big event. A lot of stores automatically give you free shipping if you spend over a select amount of money, so you might want to keep this in mind while you’re adding to your shopping cart. Of course, not all websites will extend their generosity to free shipping during the holiday sales. In this case, you might want to look around to see if you can find a free shipping code for the website, which will help your savings flourish. Some sites will offer free shipping as part of their sale, so you won’t have to waste time looking for a way to save on your items purchased on these websites. Other websites, like Amazon, offer free 2-day shipping to their subscribers, which might come in handy if you’re planning on shopping on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

10. Shopping Apps
Some stores like to take shoppers for a ride when it comes to their sales. A lot of shoppers will take the advertised price as good during these sales, but sometimes it isn’t the case. A shopping app can not only help you compare prices in a fraction of a second, but will let you know where you can find the best item. Some of these apps will even allow you to put a hold on an item, which could help you actually get the deal you want without forcing you to run to and fro with no guarantee of a reward. Generally, these apps are free, so you may want to download a few and see which ones suit your shopping style before the big shopping days arrive.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are huge when it comes to saving money on some major sales. However, it’s also easy to get out of hand with your shopping. These simple tricks should help you avoid overdoing it while helping you get the deal of your dreams on the busiest shopping days of the year.

With the blustering winds of November here, you know that winter is just around the corner. Of course, with the change in the weather forecast higher heating prices are sure to follow, which isn’t exactly great for your budget in the already financially tight holiday season. Of course, there are ways to bring some heat to your home without ever turning the thermostat on. These simple methods to avoid the high cost of your heater are pretty easy to follow and shouldn’t cost you much, if anything. Now, you can embrace the cold weather and find that the season of snow and ice doesn’t have to mean burning money just to stay warm.

1. Run the Dryer
Doing laundry, for some families, is an everyday occurrence. Even if you don’t find yourself loading laundry every day, you can still reap some benefits from the common chore. That is, of course, the joy of the dryer. Generally, if you run the dryer it tends to heat up any room in the house, which means you have a great space to hang out when you don’t want to spend three times as much to run the heater. So, when you’re doing laundry try to move the family into the area in which the machine is going. If you live in an apartment this shouldn’t be very hard, but larger homes may pose problems especially if the laundry area is located in the garage or basement. If you plan to use your dryer to heat up the home then you may want to add a little strategy into your chore. For instance, running a load in the morning could help heat up the home as everyone gets ready to prep for the day. Also, running another load at night when the home gets very cold again will help cut down on your desire to turn up the heat. Not to mention, you can always wash sheets before bedtime, so they’re nice and warm when it’s time to sleep. Also, drying jackets, school clothes and work attire in the morning will help everyone feel cozy first thing in the morning.

2. Bake
When it comes to the cold season, nothing says home quite like a nice baked meal or homemade desserts straight from the oven. Of course, the food is a delicious way to come together as a family, but the baking is another way to add a bit of heat to the home. Try to come up with a few meals that allow you to bake for dinner and breakfast, in order to give the home a little boost in the coldest portions of the day. You may also want to consider baking your own bread during this season. It will cut down on your heating bill as well as your grocery bill, which will help you save even more. You may even get the whole family involved in the baking to help make it a family event that will ensure everyone gets to enjoy the warmth. The warm foods you put on the table will also help warm up your family, which will help them feel more comfortable as the temperature drops.

3. Bring on the Layers
As the weather gets colder, you should try to embrace your fashion sense to help cut down on the heating bill. There’s no law that says you can’t wear more than one sweater, or even a jacket in the home, especially if it helps save you money. Kids will usually quickly embrace this idea, especially if you let them choose the clothing on their own. It may even help to add some warmer items to their dress up clothes. You may also want to consider onsie pajamas for the entire family. These are designed to keep the body as warm as possible and will improve your comfort levels. Of course, you may want to keep in mind that most heat escapes from the head and feet. So, a nice pair of thick socks, slippers or a beanie can really help keep your body feeling nice and warm.

4. Add Some Curtains
This year, you may want to think about boosting your décor for the winter months. Curtains are one of your best defenses against the outdoor cold. Of course, you may want to start looking for thicker drapes if you tend to have a lot of problems with drafts during the winter months. Curtains actually help block out the wind, which will add more heat to your home without costing you anything more than the curtain’s price. Darker curtains are great for this time of the year too. Basically, they tend to soak up the heat from the sun, which can be redistributed into your home. You may want to leave the curtains open on particularly sunny days, but if it’s cold, rainy or particularly windy, simply close the curtains and let them do their job. You won’t be disappointed.

5. Light a Fire
Lighting a fire to keep warm is pretty much a tale as old as time, right? So, why not utilize this timeless tradition to cut down on the amount of money you spend on heating. Sitting around a warm fire with the family is a great way to bond and share a comforting experience with everyone. Of course, you should keep a few things in mind when you do this. First, you should shut all the doors in the home to help maximize the heat into the main room. This will also help prevent other rooms in the home from growing unbearably cold. You should also consider saving money by finding cheap or free wood online. If you surf the classifieds for your area, you should be able to find a few people who will gladly give you their wood in order to get it out of their space. You can also use wood from your own yard, especially if you’ve recently trimmed the trees in your space. Don’t forget, you have to clean your fireplace from time to time too, in order to prevent fires from occurring.

6. Exercise
Your winter body doesn’t have to make its annual appearance, especially if you’re trying to save a bit of money this season. Rather than gaining a few pounds over the winter season, you might want to use this cold period to amp up your workout routine. With the cold weather working against you, one of the best ways to actually stay warm is to move your body. Thus, exercise will help you spike your temperature for longer than you think. You don’t have to do a full on workout every time you’re feeling cold though; however, you can help combat the heat by doing a few jumping jacks, pushups or sit ups whenever you’re feeling on the cold side. Some exercises are actually designed to help you stay warm though. For instance, the breathing work yoga promotes can warm up the body and leave you feeling more comfortable than you thought possible. If you’re feeling a bit tired though, meditation is another great alternative that will help you bring up your body’s comfort level.

7. Enjoy a Warm Beverage
There’s no doubt about it, having a warm beverage can do a whole lot for your comfort level when it’s cold outside. Thus, rather than spiking the heater up to a higher temperature, you may want to consider making yourself something warm to drink. Hot chocolate, coffee and black tea are some of the more common choices, but you can also use this season to help you benefit your health. For instance, rather than drinking cup after cup of coffee which is packed with caffeine, you can keep it lighter with green tea. Green tea will actually boost your metabolism, which will help you feel even warmer. You might also want to try hot lemon water. This low calorie beverage will help rehydrate you, but it is also amazing for your digestive health. If you’re feeling a little hungry then consider having some soup or stew in a cup. The warmth of the food will warm your insides while the cup will help bring heat to your hands, which will help out even more.

8. House Inspection
If you’re worried your heat is going straight out of the home, then you may want to consider getting a home inspection before the weather starts to get really bad. Sometimes, your insurance company or power company will send someone out, but if not you might want to browse around for coupons or to see who has the best price. The inspector will go over your insulation and make sure you don’t have a problem with your heater, fireplace or drafts in the home. You can do some of this work yourself if you’re worried about the cost of such an inspection. There’s even a lot of websites that will show you how to DIY some of the fixes, so you can save even more!

9. Hot Water Bottle
Sometimes, when it comes to staying warm, an old school trick is the best way to go. In order to avoid turning up the heater before going to bed, all you need is a hot water bottle to help regulate the heat in the bed. Simply add the hot water bottle to the bottom of the bed and enjoy the extra warmth it brings to your feet. Hot water bottles are generally pretty cheap at most stores and you can even find special ones to suit your children’s needs and interests. Of course, if you want to save even more money, there’s some awesome DIY hot water bottles that will make you want to craft a few for each room. Some of these can even be made without using a bit of water, which adds to your frugal way of life. You can even knit your own hot water bottle cooshie, to help bring even more comfort to your winter nights.

10. Rotate Your Fans
One thing most people do that costs them a lot in the energy department is forgetting to switch your fans’ rotation. Generally, you keep the fan on a counter clock wise setting in the summer because it helps circulate air while also cooling it down. This isn’t something you want when it’s pretty cold out though. By switching the fan to clockwise, you’ll still be able to circulate air, but the fan won’t cool the air down. Thus, the hot air that is in the air will be moved around the home, which will mean your heater won’t have to work as hard. This is sure to keep your power bills down and will make the house feel more comfortable when it comes to the breathability of each room.

Winter time doesn’t have to mean forking over lots of money to your electric or gas company because the heater needs to be on full blast. In fact, if you’re willing to put a little extra effort into your day, you may get away with no heating or the bare minimum on most of the winter days. This will not only help you financially, but will help reduce your carbon footprint, which is always a good thing. So, grab your favorite coat and hot water bottle and enjoy your homemade warmth.

With Thanksgiving only a few short weeks away, panic mode may be setting in if you’re still trying to get a party underway. Have no fret though, there’s still plenty of time to come up with an amazing Thanksgiving party that will leave your guests feeling the warmth of the season. Of course, if money is on your mind then there’s still no need to worry because you can still pull off an amazing holiday event without having to break the budget. With a few simple tricks and a little help from friends and family, your holiday party will have everyone enjoying themselves in no time at all. So, grab your favorite recipes and start planning, because these tips are ready to help you cut the costs!

1. Handcrafted Decor
If you’re a little short on decor this year then don’t run out and buy a whole bunch of items that will cut into your budget. Instead, let your creative juices flow and make your own. There’s lots of holiday crafts out there that don’t take a lot of time to make and they look like they cost you a small fortune. You can also put the kids to work on some of the crafts, which will make your home look warmer and more family friendly. Of course, you could kill two birds with one stone by allowing your guests to help you decorate. Before everyone shows up, put up a few simple items like leaves or foods to set the mood. Then, set up a craft table with a few different projects to try out. This is perfect for keeping the kids occupied and it will help you get your place decorated and ready to go before the feast makes its way to the table. You can even host a competition for the best crafts of the day. You won’t have to go all out on the price either. After all, only two people can break the wishbone and there’s always that last piece of pie everyone has their eye on!

2. Bring on the Potluck
One of the best ways to cut down on your holiday meal is to skip making everything for yourself. If you’re feeding a lot of people then this can really add up. Not to mention, it’s pretty time consuming! Rather than biting off more than you chew before the party even begins, try to ask people to bring their signature dish. If everyone can confirm something before they come then you can work around their dishes to make sure there is enough food to fill everyone up. Of course, this will also allow you to spend a bit more on the main course. Plus, with only your few items going in the kitchen, you’ll be able to baby the main dish to make sure it will blow everyone away when they try it. Potlucks are great in the sense that everyone gets a chance to share a piece of their tradition with the rest of the group, which makes for great stories that will entertain during the feast.

3. Shop Smart
One of the best ways to save during this holiday is to use your smart shopper skills. First and foremost, you should always follow the golden rule: don’t fall for the brand names. You can usually find a generic form of your favorite dressing, canned vegetables and so on, so you don’t have to spend the extra money on items that are overpriced. You should also pay attention to canned versus frozen items. For instance, frozen vegetables may seem like a great deal when you look at the price, but they don’t work for a lot of recipes. Generally, because the food is frozen they add more water to the dish, which could ruin some foods. Canned foods are usually only a few cents more, so make sure you know what you can and can’t use in regards to your recipes. Shopping around is another must when it comes to the holidays. Many stores will have different prices, so you might end up going to a few different places to get the best deals. In order to help you save time on this task you may consider buying a shopping app that will show you where your best options are, as well as if there is any available coupons.

4. Cheap Wine
If you plan on having alcohol at the event, you may want to keep the drinks limited to wine in order to save some money. Wine is one of the best beverages to buy if you want to save money because you can purchase it in bulk. For instance, there’s a lot of boxed wine that actually tastes great. Despite the stigma surrounding it, boxed wine is perfect if you’re serving a large group and will even allow you to afford a variety of wines to please your guests. You don’t have to limit yourself to boxed wine though. If you know of a cheaper wine brand that you enjoy then that may be the best road to take. Some stores will also offer amazing bulk deals on wine during this season, which could be an advantage too. However, if you’re not sure about the wine and the store doesn’t offer samples then you may want to skip out on the bulk deals just to be safe.

5. Serve Appetizers
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the amount of dishes you make can really add up, so if you want to cut down on the dishes you serve you might want to consider appetizers as a way to satisfy your guests’ appetites. Of course, appetizers are also great if your main form of entertainment is the holiday football game. This will allow everyone to stay happy, so you can concentrate on what’s going on in the kitchen. Appetizers are also great for kids that may be picky eaters. For appetizers, you can easily stick with your favorite party ideas, such as bread and dip or a veggie platter. There are lots of great Thanksgiving inspired appetizers too. If you’re looking for a more formal way to add an appetizer to the feast then soup is another option. You can serve soup as a first course to help fill up your guests before serving the main course. Soup is fairly inexpensive and can be stretched far.

6. Holiday Specials
Entertaining your guests doesn’t have to mean pouring lots of money into this aspect of the party. In fact, there’s a lot of holiday specials that are probably a part of the Thanksgiving tradition for many of your guests. For starters, in the morning the Macy’s Day Parade will captivate audiences of all ages until lunch time, which will give you time to spend in the kitchen. Thanksgiving is also known for the amazing holiday NFL games, which features a lot of favored teams. These games tend to start early and last until the evening, so you may be able to appease most of your guests for quite some time. For the kids, there’s also cartoon specials which seem to remain popular from generation to generation. It’s hard to forget the iconic dog show too, so you might want to see if anyone is interested before you set up a schedule. Of course, there should also be things to do in your hometown. For instance, you may have a parade, which could be a great gathering space for the party to begin or end.

7. Require RSVP
One of the hardest things about Thanksgiving is actually making enough food. With people coming and going, it’s tough to figure out how much you should make. If you make too much then you’ve clearly overspent and some of the leftovers will probably go to waste. If you don’t make enough then people will go hungry and may even be angry that you didn’t make enough to satisfy them. The best way to remedy this problem is to have people RSVP to your party. This will ensure that only your serious guests are going to be accounted for, so you’ll know how much to make. Even if someone does back out of the party after RSVPing, you won’t be out too much money. One of the easiest ways to do this is by using social media, or simply having your guests call or text to let you know if they are coming.

8. Skip the Disposables
Many hosts tend to opt for the cheaper paper plate and disposable items route because they think it will add to the convenience of the party. Ideally this would be okay, but after spending the money on the items you might be wondering if it truly was a good idea. Sure, it may seem cheap at first, but once the guests begin to eat things will shortly unravel. For example, most paper plates can’t hold up to the holiday foods, which means guests will have to use more than one plate, or their food may end up on the ground or table before they even get a chance to eat. Cutlery often poses a problem as the knives can’t cut through many of the dishes. Your guests will probably go through the tiny paper napkins like they’re going out of style too. So, you may want to just pull out your dishes and deal with the painstaking task of washing them. If you’re not sure you have enough dishes or cutlery, then ask around to see if you can borrow some, or try to find a great deal at a thrift store.

9. Pull Out the Games
If you’re low on ideas for entertainment then look no further than your game closet. Most guests will be more than happy to sit down and play a board game like they did when they were kids. If you have a lot of guests then it may be easier to set up a few different games and rotate. You can also do team games, like Pictionary or charades. If you don’t have a great selection for the kids then take to the internet. You can easily work up a game of pin the tail on the donkey or musical chairs without having to spend a small fortune. Another great idea is to have a checker or chess competition, to keep everyone engrossed in the game. Last but not least, cards are always a good option because you can mix up the games to span throughout the afternoon.

10. Stay Home
A lot of gatherings these days end with the group moving out to take a place in line for Black Friday shopping or Gray Thursday shopping. This can be one of the most expensive ways to end your Thanksgiving celebration. Generally, when people go out with friends they are more than likely going to spend more unless the group is there to support one another in not spending too much, which usually isn’t the case when it comes to the holiday sales. So, instead of calling it a night by prepping to shop, try to come up with a new solution for the season. For example, you could draw names for your upcoming Christmas party or you could take the time to share what you’re thankful for later in the party. There’s ample ways to entertain longer that will make your guests forget all about the crazed shopping that is happening around you.

Your Thanksgiving celebration doesn’t have to be a cause for concern this year. With a few frugal tips you should be able to find some amazing ways to keep everyone happy for a lot less than you think. Now, all you have to do is worry about the cooking because the financial burden should be put to rest.

The holiday season has finally approached us, which means the budget may need a bit of stretching if we’re going to get through November without overdoing it. From Thanksgiving feasts to Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping, this month is filled with action that could leave your head spinning from all of the financial transactions. Luckily, there’s a lot you can actually save money on during this busy month too. In fact, if you play your cards right, your savings will be spent frugally so you can still celebrate your hard work and shopping skills when the month comes to an end. With these ten items on the top of your list, you’re sure to find the price tag you were hoping for whenever you get to the cash register.

1. Electronics
With Gray Thursday, Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, you’ll be pleased to know that electronics will be at their best price all month long. One of the best things to buy during this month is televisions. Everything from top of the line models to older editions will be on sale, but you’ll have to act fast as most of the deals are only until supplies run out. You should also check out deals on laptops too. With brand new designs coming out this year, you should be able to find an extraordinary deal on older models. Of course, phones, tablets and e-readers will also be on top of the sales list this season too, so if you’re looking for an upgrade make sure to keep up with sales so you can find the best deals. Gaming console bundles are already being released, but if you can hold out until sales day because they should take a price decrease. Of course, you may have to stand in line for a few hours to get this type of deal. Last but not least, you may want to look for items that aren’t exactly on the obvious list for electronics. For instance, SD cards, USB drives, external hard drives and so on, are usually priced well during this month.

2. Home Fragrances
The weather should be getting colder as the month progresses, which means you’ll probably have less fresh air to enjoy because the heater will mostly likely be on. Thus, home fragrances might be the best way to freshen up your home without costing a small fortune. Luckily, this month, home fragrances tend to be at their best price throughout the year. Sure, spring and summer fragrances should already be discounted or in the clearance bin, but they may have an even greater price reduction during this month. Autumn scents will also be moving out of the top seller bins as the month comes to an end, which means they will hit sale prices soon. You should also be able to find some great early release winter fragrances too, which will allow you to prep for holiday guests for less than you’d normally pay.

3. Christmas Trees
Although it may feel a bit early to think about Christmas Trees, you should start considering what you want to buy before you finish up your Thanksgiving dinner. Real Christmas Trees are actually at the best possible price right after Thanksgiving when they start making their grand appearance at grocery stores and special lots around your town or city. Although it might seem like the tree will die before the holiday season arrives, you can use special plant foods to help keep it vibrant until the big day finally arrives. You may want to know what to look for in a tree before you go shopping though. Remember, the closer to Christmas you get, the more your tree is going to cost. So, it might be wise to enjoy the nicer trees while they last because the price will be reasonable if you’re feeling the Christmas spirit a little early. Of course, artificial trees are another story. These trees will still be at a great price throughout the month of November because most people will be more preoccupied with going out to get the gifts for under the tree than the tree itself. This will also allow you to keep the tree in a box for a little while, so you can enjoy the rest of November without jumping ahead too much.

4. Wedding Dresses
Engagement season is coming up fast and wedding season follows right after, which is why November may be the perfect time to get your wedding dress. Generally, during this time of the year most bridal shops order an excessive amount of wedding dresses and other accessories to help prevent them from running out of stock during the busy season. So, if you plan your wedding right, you should be able to grab your dress now at the best possible price. It’s always a good idea to buy your dress several months ahead of time anyway, so you can make sure the alterations are absolutely perfect. Since it is the off-season for dresses, you should also have an easy time finding more styles. Plus, bridal boutiques will be less crowded so you can enjoy more space to check out new dresses as well as the full attention of the seamstress who won’t feel burned out due to the lack of business in the off-season.

5. Kitchen Essentials
November is a great month to buy anything and everything you might need for the kitchen. First and foremost, this month should automatically see price cuts on items like pots and pans or bakeware. Due to the weather being a bit colder, more people want to spend time indoors baking, which means these items will fly off the shelves if they’re a good price. So, if your kitchen is lacking anything, you should shop around now to see if the price suits your needs. This also makes it a great time to shop for friends or family that may be getting married. Their wedding registry should serve as a great guide, but if you know them on a closer level then you should be able to find something that suits their needs perfectly at a price that makes your budget happy. You don’t have to shop now though. If you keep an eye on prices they should remain the same after Black Friday. Thus if you want to wait until Gray Thursday, Black Friday or Cyber Monday then you may find even greater deals. If not, then the good price will remain the same when the shopping days are over.

6. Tools
With the cold winter moving in fast, you may be grateful for all of the tool discounts this month. This is a great time to stock up on items you’ll need to winterize your home or patch a roof that is leaking. You should check out lawn tools too, as it may be a great idea to trim your trees before the big freeze hits. You should also check out snow gear, so you can shovel snow and keep your home slip free while the weather creates potential danger after potential danger. Of course, this time is also perfect for when you want to check out some early holiday shopping deals. The tool lover in your family will be simple and cheap to buy for if you can get your purchases in this month. However, you may want to hold out until Black Friday to make larger purchases, as most stores will be able to offer huge discounts on some of the most popular items.

7. Toys
There’s no doubt, if you have kids then you may want to get your toy shopping in during the month of November. If you’re looking for one of this year’s “it” gifts then you may want to consider shopping as early as possible because they tend to fly off the shelves because it takes a while for most stores to replenish stock. Luckily, most toys will take a price reduction in the month of November, which will ensure you can get your toy shopping done under budget, in most cases. This is the perfect time to shop for smaller scale toys as they will be at the lowest possible price. Stocking stuffer items should be at a fabulous price too, so make sure you have everything you need before things go up in price in December. All the same, you might want to hold off on bigger ticket items if you’re willing to risk your chance of getting them. Generally, these “it” toys will be a great deal around Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

8. RVs
Dream of taking to the wide open road with someone special? Well, November is the month to plan on buying an RV. Generally, this period of time is the off season for RVs because most people like to road trip during the summer months when road conditions are ideal. So, make sure to check out the deals to see if something strikes your fancy. You should be able to talk the salesperson down on the price too, especially if they’re desperate for a commission sale during the dry season. Although it may not seem ideal, you could still use your RV to travel during the holiday season to save a bit of money. Most RVs have a great heating system, so you will remain comfortable while traveling to see your loved ones. The purchase alone, could come in handy for mini-road trips or weekend getaways too, which will save on your vacation budget.

9. Blue Rays
If your movie collection is missing a few of your favorites, then you might want to use this month to help replenish your collection. It’s also a great time to think about shopping for movies for the holiday season as they tend to make great gifts. November sees a slight decrease in the price of most Blue Rays, including newer films. You may find that the older movies are where you will find the most savings though, but this could come in handy if you’re trying to upgrade your collection from basic DVDs to Blue Rays. Generally, older movies will range from $3 to $10, which will allow you to buy more than you ever expected. Of course, during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, you should be able to find some pretty awesome deals on TV series or special edition movie collections.

10. Food
With Thanksgiving coming up this month, you may be happy to find out that some foods are a great thing to buy during this month. In fact, turkey, which is generally the main course, is best bought in the month of November. You might want to buy as quickly as you can though because as the holiday approaches prices will also boost. If you plan to repeat the dish for Christmas then make sure to buy two turkeys now. Seasonal produce is also in abundance this month. Food like kale, winter squash, apples, beets, cabbage, carrots, potatoes and pumpkin will all be cheap. Of course the month also sees some other tasty holidays. For instance, Deviled Egg Day is the 2nd, Bittersweet chocolate and almond day is the 7th, and Parfait Day is the 25th. Last but not least, sandwich day is the 3rd, so look around to see if you can find freebies or discounted sandwiches in your area.

November may be known as a month for spending and overindulgence, but there are also lots of ways to save money during this amazing month of abundance. With these ten shopping ideas, you should be able to find more joy and financial comfort during this chilly month. Now, you won’t have to feel as stressed when you plan out your holiday festivities and shopping sprees.

With the holidays coming up, you’re probably scrambling to figure out how you can avoid the high prices of staying in a hotel while you visit with friends and family. Although it may seem impossible to find a hotel at a budget friendly price this time of the year, there are a few things you can do to try to cut back on spending, so you won’t end up in a budget crisis while you’re away. With a few tricks and a little bit of insider savings suggestions, your holiday travel is well on its way to a frugal adventure that will leave the entire family satisfied. So, don’t let hotels leave you scrambling to afford their high cost, instead leave the hotels competing to offer you the best deals in town.

1. Shop Around
One of the key elements to helping you save the most money is to actually shop around. Even though it’s getting closer and closer to the holiday season, you should always take the time to research your hotel so you can find a price that will satisfy your needs. You should start your hotel shopping adventure online, as you will have more access to information so that you can get a general idea of the hotel and its costs. Of course, you should always consult more than one website when you’re dealing with hotels. Some websites can really help you find the best deal possible, while others will concentrate on discounts or bundling packages. You shouldn’t just stop with the website though. If you give a hotel a call, you may find out more discounts that will save you even more. If you’re still struggling with the process, you could always talk to a travel agent to figure out your next steps.

2. Play the Field
Shopping around for hotels can be tricky, so if you find a hotel you think is offering a good deal then go ahead and book it if they offer free cancelations. This will allow you to secure the deal, while still giving you the option to shop around for something better. Sometimes, you may find another great deal or something that is similar that strikes your fancy. If you call the first reservation to cancel they may be willing to fight for your business and offer you a better deal. You can even bring in the second hotel into the negotiations to see who can offer you the best possible deal. Although this may take a whole lot of effort on your end, it will be worth it when you get to stay in a pricier hotel for the same price as a budget hotel.

3. Know What’s Included
Before you book your room, you should know what exactly comes in the hotel package as this will help save you a whole lot of money. Generally, the hotels will list the items on their website or your receipt, but don’t feel bad about calling to get a rundown of what items are included in the purchase. This can come in handy in 2 different ways. First of all, it will let you know what you can and can’t use in the hotel. For instance, if your hotel doesn’t include gym, pool or Wi-Fi access, then you could be looking at a pretty hefty bill when you check out. There’s other small things that may end up costing you too, so just make sure to know where you stand financially before making yourself at home in the hotel. Secondly, knowing what’s included in your purchase could help you find a hotel at the same price, or just above that will offer you a lot more amenities. The more amenities that are included the more likely you are to spend less on other aspects of your vacation. Of course, if you only plan on sleeping in the room then the cheapest price will always win out.

4. Book By Phone
Websites can really save time and come in handy when you’re shopping around. However, they don’t really compare to a phone call when you plan on booking a hotel. Generally, when you call to book a hotel you may be privy to more discounts than you expected. The hotel can actually offer you special rates, discounts and other amenities that will save you a whole lot of money when you check out. If the hotel doesn’t come straight out and offer you a deal, then simply ask. There’s no harm in it. You also don’t have to book if you don’t like what the hotel has to offer, so don’t feel obligated even if you’re on the phone with them. Another great thing about booking on the phone is it is a lot harder to get your wires crossed, which could mess up a reservation. When you book online, all of the information isn’t exactly customizable if you have unique needs. Whereas, if you book online you can have the matter taken care of before you even arrive. It makes things personal again, which is always nice when you’re planning on staying somewhere.

5. Bundle the Deal
Sometimes, when it comes to booking a hotel, it’s always best to handle the expenses in one big bundle. If you’re planning on having a little fun this holiday season then you can probably easily grab a great hotel and amusement park deal. Disney theme parks are notorious for these deals and they really do save a lot of money before it’s all said and done. There’s lots of ways to bundle though. For instance, if you plan on driving a rental car to and from your destination then you should be able to bundle that deal to save a bit of money. Most travel websites try to bundle your airline ticket, hotel and rental car if they can, which helps you add some bulk savings to the mix. So, make sure to shop around and see if you can find a bundle that makes your life and financial situation a lot easier.

6. Shop Early
Although it’s already nearing the holiday season, it’s not too late to get in a little early shopping for the holidays you may celebrate in December. Generally, you want to shop as early as you can though because it will offer you the biggest discounts. You can even begin shopping in the summer time, if you’re sure you’re going to have specific dates for traveling available to you. Of course, you can always book ahead with a refundable or changeable reservation, so you can ensure you still get the best deal you find, but won’t lose money if your plans end up changing. Another great thing about shopping early is it ensures you have a room to stay in. If you travel to more popular areas during the holidays then this is a battle in itself. So, it’s always best to have something booked, even if you want to shop around for last minute deals when you arrive.

7. Skip the Extras
Hotels love to tack on extra items for your room. For instance, one of their best sellers is an entertainment package for the television. Although it’s tempting to have more channels to enjoy, you can always watch TV at home, so there’s no need to spend the extra money while you’re on vacation. There’s a lot of packages like this in hotels, so make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for before you agree to anything. You should also talk about some of the hidden costs that hotels add to room charges. Some of these you may be able to opt out of, if you know what to ask. Of course, there’s also the more obvious extras that you should avoid. For instance, room service can really add a small fortune to the bill as can eating or drinking anything out of the minifridge.

8. Look for Discounts
There’s more discounts around than you can imagine, so don’t be afraid to do a little searching around to see if you can save a lot more money on your hotel room. One of the more popular discounts is military service, which will often take off the amount you would pay in taxes on the room. Of course, there are discounts for other professions too, as well as those for senior citizens or the disabled. Some hotels will allow children to stay for free, which comes in handy if you’re traveling with the whole family. Membership rewards are another huge bonus to help you out. For instance, if you’re a member of AAA then you should find a discount coming your way. Credit cards and travel points will also supply you with some points to take off a bit of money on your bill. Also, if you tend to stay in hotels often, you may want to try out their rewards systems as you might be privy to a free night. Last but not least, there are coupons to help out with hotel expenses, so try looking on the hotel website or other coupon sites to see what you can come up with.

9. Look at Reviews
A lot of people tend not to choose a motel or hotels that tend to have a cheaper price tag. Often, they assume that it’s in a bad neighbor or simply isn’t being taken care of by housekeeping and maintenance. Although this can be true, sometimes, often you might find that the hotel or motel you’re checking out may save you a lot of money. By simply checking out reviews, you can learn a lot about a hotel. Of course, when you do this you should make sure you visit multiple websites because you’ll want to get the most accurate reviews on the hotel. Often enough, these smaller hotels put a lot of effort into the upkeep of their hotel and finding friendly customer service in order to fight the bigger competition. If you’re still not sure about the hotel/motel then book a room if it’s refundable. Then, when you get there check it out. If it doesn’t meet your standards then go with your back up plan.

10. Move Along
Sometimes, you can actually save money by switching to a different hotel. This is especially easy if you’re visiting bigger places like Las Vegas, but it might take a bit of effort in other areas. First of all, you should make a reservation at your hotel of choice. When you arrive, enjoy your first night’s stay. However, you should go check out other hotels in the area too. If you tell them you’re staying at the first hotel then they may want to compete a bit to get your business. This could leave you with an even better deal than before. As your trip goes on, repeat the cycle. Of course, you should also be careful with this method. If the area is particularly crowded then it may be wise just to sit tight. Some hotels will actually walk customers that aren’t staying longer if the hotel is particularly busy, which it generally is during the holiday season.

Booking a hotel in the holiday season doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With these simple tips you should be able to find an extraordinary deal on your hotel, while ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort or peace of mind. With your hotel booked and your savings nestled comfortably in your wallet, you’ll wonder why you stressed out over holiday hotel bookings in the first place.

October is already nearing an end, which means the holiday season is barreling towards us with no sign of slowing down. Holiday shopping can be a huge frustration, especially if you’re looking for the deal of a lifetime for someone special. There’s lots of shopping aids out there, but sometimes it’s better to know when the best time to shop for specific items is. If you already have a list of items you’d love to have under your Christmas tree then these ten tips should help you determine when you should actually go shopping for them. You may be surprised how early shopping can help you out when it comes to holiday expenses. Of course, you may also feel relieved to know which last minute items won’t cost you an arm and a leg if you end up waiting too long.

1. Toys
There’s no doubt about it, toys dominate the holiday time, especially if you have kids in your life. Thus, knowing when to shop for toys can be the best thing in the world if you’re trying to get the best items at the lowest of prices. January is actually the best time to buy toys, because of holiday clearance, but this isn’t always plausible because children lose interest in some items. Of course, you could always shop for stocking stuffers for the following year if you really are looking to save. The month of December is probably the best time to work out the newer releases because stores are trying to clear as much stock as possible to build up their profits. You probably shouldn’t shop too late if you’re looking for an “it’ toy though as they may be totally out of stock by the time you get around to it. There are a couple of days you should look out for when it comes to shopping though. The first is the day before Thanksgiving as many stores will try to offer great deals to compete with Black Friday. Of course, the second is Black Friday, but you’ll have to be fast here because most deals will disappear faster than you’d imagine.

2. Televisions
Another hot gift for the holiday season is TVs, which tend to be pricey throughout the year. February is actually the best month to buy a TV, so if you’re great at keeping a secret for long periods of time and you love to shop early, then this is the perfect time. Other than that, you’ll probably want to try your luck at a Black Friday sale. Generally, you can get TVs discounted more than 50%, which may leave you so excited about your new purchase that you might want to grab two. Of course, you should never simply buy a television based on the price. Before Black Friday gets here, do a little research to make sure the TV will last you and has features you actually need.

3. Electronic Devices
When it comes to electronic devices, your best bet is to hold out for Black Friday. Everything from laptops and gaming consoles to phones and tablets will be at a great price during this special shopping event. In fact, a lot of stores will base their sales around getting rid of as many devices as they possibly can, so you might want to sign up for Black Friday alerts to see if you can find the best deal in a hurry. Of course, even though these gadgets are on sale on Black Friday, it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to get one on this day. It may be best to keep up to date with your shopping apps, so you can choose one store to try as this will give you better odds of getting what you need. Some stores will even allow you to reserve an item, so make sure to call around to see which stores offer this option. Of course, you may also want to try out stores that offer layaway on Black Friday prices, so you won’t have to stress about having the money upfront. If you’re looking for an older model iPhone or iPad then it may be easier just to try buying in September when the newer model is released.

4. Clothes
If you love giving clothes as gifts, or your kids simply need new clothes, then you may want to go ahead and buy in advance during the back to school sales. Although this is already a tight period for your budget, it may save you the most money to shop this way, especially when it comes to jeans and the latest fashion items. Another tip to help you get past all of the clothing prices is to shop last season. Generally if there’s basic items you want to buy then this won’t harm the gift recipients fashion sense in the slightest bit. Shopping this way is particularly good if you want to give items like summer clothing as gifts, which is great especially if you plan a warm vacation in the middle of winter. You may want to chart our future growth patterns if you’re shopping for children though. Of course, if you like to stick to the classic sweater gifts then buy these items in spring. You may want to factor in how much children will grow during the extended amount of time though.

5. Candy
A lot of people love to give sweet treats for the holidays, which is great if you can buy them at the appropriate times. Of course, some even prefer to add these beloved sweets to the dessert table during holiday feasts. If you can’t get enough candy during the holiday season then you may want to begin shopping for the treats around Mid-October. Generally, this is when Halloween candy goes on sale, but you can always find non-themed candies around this time too. You may also be able to find supplies to make your own candy at a low price, which is perfect if you’re a fan of holiday fudge. You can keep shopping for candy throughout the month of October, but you may find the best deals at the beginning of November because all of the candy will be clearanced to make room for other dessert items for Thanksgiving. So, if you want to stock up for gifts, hurry before the last of the candy is gone. Even if you only find Halloween candy on sale, you can easily re-wrap it to suit your gifting needs!

6. Vacations
Although it may be too late to help you out for this year’s holiday seasons, you can easily book a vacation at a low price in January. This is perfect for someone that is willing to go the extra mile to see someone smile during the holiday season. It doesn’t matter when you want to go on the trip, booking in advance will cut down the price of your airline fees, even if your flight is rescheduled later on. You should also be able to find fantastic prices on cruises, which will cover most expenses. If you use certain sites or get together with a travel agent then you should be able to book an entire vacation without having to worry about a thing. This is perfect if you’re planning on going overseas as you can easily buy passes for transits and entertainment, which means all you have to do is worry about what wrapping paper you’re going to use.

7. Appliances
If you’re planning on adding to someone’s kitchen then this year then there’s a few different time periods you should keep in mind. For starters, if you’re looking at smaller appliances then you should shop in advance in January. During this time, you should be able to get coffee makers, blenders and anything else you may want to gift at a price that will leave you speechless. This is especially perfect if you know someone will be starting a new chapter in their life around the holiday season. Larger appliances are best purchased in September because newer models are released in October. Dishwashers, refrigerators and other larger items should see a significant price drop during this time. Last but not least, cookware can be found at its best price in April, which will allow you to stock up on potential gifts as well as everything you’re going to need to create your holiday meal.

8. Tools
If there’s a handy person in your life that’s always asking for tools during the holiday season then you may want to begin your shopping in June. Generally tools take a price drop during this month due to Father’s Day, which means it’s the perfect time to stock up so you’ll be prepared for the holiday season. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for small tools or heavy duty tools because everything should be at a great price. Of course, if you don’t want to shop 6 months in advance, you should be able to find some amazing deals on tools just before Thanksgiving or during Black Friday. This is probably the best time to shop for larger tools as you should be able to get them at a major discount.

9. Holiday Decor
Even if you’re not looking for gifts, you may be looking for some decorations to make your holiday amazing. The best thing you can do in regards to decorations is to shop after the holiday season is over, This will allow you to find great items at an even greater price, so when the next holiday season rolls around you’ll be prepared. Of course, if you really need some new decor then it may be more beneficial to go ahead and shop last year’s clearance. If you start in the summer time you’ll get some amazing deals, but you should still be able to save big on items from your favorite department store if you look online. This will help with the bigger items and will help keep your holiday budget frugal, so you can spend more on gifts.

10. Food
Of course, one of the bigger areas of the holiday budget often enough goes to the holiday feast. Don’t worry though, there’s a few things you can do to help maximize your savings here too. For instance, you can easily grab items like stuffing, canned vegetables and cranberry sauce at an amazing price after Thanksgiving is over. You may also be able to get rolls and freeze them to help cut the cost of your meal in the future. If you’re shopping for turkeys for Thanksgiving dinner then you should try to shop way ahead of time. The closer to the holiday you get, the pricier the turkey will be. Of course, if you tend to have turkey for other holiday feasts too, then it may save you money to go ahead and buy two. As long as you freeze the extra meat properly, you should be good to go for the next holiday. However, if you plan on having ham during your holiday meal, you may want to buy it during Thanksgiving, as they aren’t in as much demand during this time.

Holiday shopping can be stressful, but with these ten tips you can cut down on the price tag, so you can have a bit more fun with it. These tips will help you find the perfect times to buy the gifts you’ve been hoping for and will allow you to save the money you worked so hard to earn.

Needless to say, Halloween is practically at our doorsteps, which means the holiday planning has probably already begun. Although Trick-or-Treating and dressing up in fun costumes is a major part of the holiday, so is throwing parties to share the occasion with friends and family. Of course, parties can cost an arm and a leg, if you’re not careful, and when it comes to Halloween it’s easy to splurge when you shouldn’t. Luckily, there’s a few shortcuts you can take to make your holiday party frugal and fun, without making it appear as if you cut the corners. These ten tips should help you make the most of many elements of the occasion, so you can enjoy watching your inner circle have the time of their life.

1. Homemade Foods
Sure, when Halloween arrives, there’s lots of bakery items that will strike your fancy. Of course, they’ll also hit your pocket book pretty hard too. Luckily, there’s lots of great items you can whip up yourself, that doesn’t involve you needing the skills of a world class baker or chef. For instance, one of the classic Halloween foods is worms in the mud. All you need is some gummy worms, pudding and chocolate cookies and you’re good to go. You can also transform a typical box of red velvet cake mix into a brain cake, without ever breaking a sweat. If baking isn’t your thing then make up a batch of spaghetti and place fake eyeballs or prop fingers in it. The kids will love this wormy treat, if they can get past the scare factor. There’s lots of other great recipes online or you can let your imagination soar and create something entirely original to your party.

2. DIY Drinks
Whether you’re entertaining children or adults, you may want to consider making up a few spooktacular drinks to make your party a hit. Alcoholic beveragesare easy to find online and you can design them based on the alcohol you already have in the home. Generally, these mixed drinks come with recipes that are made with pretty cheap ingredients, so you won’t have to spend a small fortune on exotic fruits or anything like that. Many of these drinks can be altered to create a delicious drink without the alcohol. This will drive the kids wild too and will ensure everyone gets the most out of their experience. If you do serve alcohol though, you should try to limit it to one drink per person, especially if you’re trying to save money or keep the environment family friendly. To add an extra special touch to your drinks, add Halloween inspired garnish like finger, eyeball or spider decor which can easily be found at the dollar store.

3. Costume Competition
When it comes to keeping your guests entertained, what better way to do so than to host a costume competition. Most of your guests will probably show up in costume as is, so use this to your advantage. If you have a lot of guests, or your guest vary in ages, then try to break up the competition in order to have more winners and to take up more of your time. For instance, age groups are easy to organize especially when it comes to children. However, if your party is all adults then you could easily separate the groups by the genre of the costume. If you want to add a prize to your competition then there’s no need to go all out either. You can easily come up with a small gift card, party favor bag of candy or a baked good. The sky is really the limit here.

4. Crafts
It’s not quite a party without a little craft work, right? This is especially true if you have kids coming to your party because crafting is such an easy way to keep kids entertained for hours on end. Luckily, there’s lots of easy crafts that are cheap to make. You may want to start out with printing out some fun Halloween coloring sheets. You should be able to find a wide assortment of options online without having to spend a penny on the items. Another simple option is to make Trick-or-Treating bags. You can really get creative here. The bags can be made of cloth, paper or you can even splurge and buy some cheap buckets at the dollar store. From there, all you need is some basic crafting supplies and the kids can go all out on their Halloween creations. Of course, Halloween craft time wouldn’t be the same without tissue paper ghosts. These take white tissue paper, string of any sort and some recycled newspaper or magazines. The kids will have a blast creating different types of ghosts. You may even be able to use them for decorations at the party. There’s lots of other crafts too, so have a little fun with the concept and enjoy the creativity that the guests bring to the table.

5. Dance Competition
You have to admit, there’s lots of awesome Halloween inspired dances out there. From the Monster Mash to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, you can really have some fun dancing during this occasion. So, why not use this to your advantage. You can easily choreograph some of your favorite dances or come up with your own. There’s lots of inspiration online and you can learn some of the classic dances from online videos for no cost at all. When everyone is ready to bust a move, have a few people who don’t want to dance act as judges. You can have solo and group competitions if you please, which may have everyone having more fun than they ever expected. Plus, it will take up a lot of the party time without allowing the party to get dull. If you plan on giving out a prize, keep it inexpensive or homemade to help keep your budget low.

6. Scary Story Competition
Where would Halloween be without scary stories that leave you on edge late at night? That’s why a scary story competition may be one of the best ways to keep your guests entertained for hours on end. Of course, you may want to keep your competition separate based on age groups as younger children won’t be able to handle the scarier stories shared by adults and teens. This can easily be done by taking the competition into another room, where you can keep the lights out and use a flashlight for effects, just as you did when you were a kid. It may also be a bit of fun to host the stories in front of a campfire, if you have the room and are legally allowed to do so. You can easily appoint a few people to judge the stories, or you can pass around a score sheet based on a variety of different materials. All in all, this should take up quite a bit of party time and will have your guests feeling nostalgic and a little spooked.

7. Music
A lot of people have a hard time finding music for the Halloween shindig, especially since many party stores tend to hike up the price on a CD to ridiculous prices. Luckily, we live in the modern age, which means just about everything can be streamed for no price at all. For starters, you can hop on your favorite streaming radio program and you’ll probably find playlist after playlist of all of your favorite Halloween hits and some you may have never even heard of. If you’re lucky, you may even find spooky sound effects, which are perfect for a haunted house. If you can’t stream for whatever reason, then try to check out a used CD store or browse around online for used products. You may find what you’re looking for is less than a dollar!

8. Shop Cheap Decor
Sure, we all love to decorate for Halloween, but some of the items can end up leaving your budget in trouble, if you’re not careful. There are better ways to shop for Halloween than your local department store’s display though. For instance, most dollar stores will have some amazing items that will ensure your home looks outstanding when Halloween finally arrives. From larger decor to faux spider webs and decals, you can really stock up without spending a ton of money at these stores. Another option is the thrift store. Usually, these stores will put their items on display closer to the holiday, so you won’t even have to dig around to find what you’re looking for. If you’re still looking for something special then hop online and look at your favorite discount stores clearance. Generally, you can find items that they couldn’t get rid of last year for a lot less than you’d expect.

9. Keep Guest Lists Low
Of course, it’s tempting to send out invitations to the entire neighborhood, your children’s school and the office. However, when it comes to paying for your party, you may want to keep your guest list a little choosier. This will allow you to make higher quality food for your guests, so you won’t have to opt for cheaper options to accommodate the huge guest list. Games and competitions will be much easier to organize this way too. Also, party favors won’t end up bankrupting you because you will only have to provide for a few people. Although it may be tough to choose who you will invite from your large list of guests, you’ll be thankful you kept the list low when you factor in the bill from the party.

10. Games
Halloween games are easy to come up with and are tons of fun for all ages. There’s a wide assortment of games that already exist, but you can also some up with your favorites to help keep your guests happy throughout your party. One of the most famous games is Mummy Wrap. Simply purchase a bunch of cheap toilet paper and divide people into teams. Whichever team can wrap up their Mummy the fastest and the best wins the game. Of course, you can always add an obstacle course to make this game a bit tougher. Zombie tag is also another fun game and takes on the basic premise of freeze tag. You can add in your own rules here though to make it even more exciting. Last but not least, playing musical chairs to your favorite Halloween tunes is also a must, especially if you’re entertaining younger children.

Halloween parties can be a boatload of fun, especially if you plan well and stay under budget. With these ten simple tips you should be able to find and create everything you need to make your party the talk of your inner circle for years to come. Now, the only thing you need to make the night a success is the perfect costume and a Trick-or-Treat bag filled with your favorite candies!

With October finally here, you may be starting to worry about the weight that the holidays tend to pack on. Between Halloween candy and Thanksgiving feasts, the next few weeks are sure to be a bit brutal for your metabolism. Of course, these short weeks are only going to be followed by more holiday activities and fun which are filled with overeating and sweet indulgences. Many people tend to want to jump on the gym bandwagon during this time of the year, but often enough, things get too busy during these months, which makes the purchase a total waste. Luckily, there’s a few things you can do in your everyday life that will cut down on the calories you consume and help you prevent the weight gain you’re already dreading.

1. Water
It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is, water is one of the best defenses against gaining weight. Not to mention, it helps your body function without a problem so you’ll feel better than ever anyway. As far as water is concerned, it helps cleanse your system of all of the bad components you put into it and, let’s face it, there’s a lot of bad components during this time of the year. By simply drinking a glass of water when you wake up, you’ll be boosting your metabolism substantially. Another great thing about water is it helps suppress your appetite. If you drink a glass of water prior to every meal then you won’t want to eat as much. This may really come in handy when it comes to holiday feasts too. Plus, it will slow down your eating, so you have more time to sit back and savor the tastes of all of your holiday treats. Apart from metabolism and appetite suppression, water can also lower your blood pressure if you drink a glass prior to showering. This can help you feel amazing, so you’ll have the energy and overall gumption to enjoy the holiday season.

2. Ditch Soda
Although your holiday feasts may be more of a wine occasion than a soda occasion, you may find quitting soda during this time will make you feel a bit better about the excess calories. Even if you allot calories for soda in your daily diet, you can still end up gaining weight due to the ingredients in the popular beverages. Not to mention, soda often causes the stomach to bloat, which will make your clothes fit poorly and will cause you to feel uncomfortable. When you kick a soda habit, you’ll notice a major differences in how you feel, so it could be the right move for the rest of the year too. Also, you should take into consideration the amount of money you’ll save by cutting soda out. This is sure to help make your holiday budget thrive and will give you extra money if you do decide to exercise outside of the home.

3. Use Smaller Plates
A lot of people base their portion size on the size of their plate, thus switching to a smaller plate could actually make believe that you’re getting more to eat. This spatial awareness could be something helpful to try during the holiday months. Sure, the size of your plate won’t stop you from going back for seconds or thirds, but it may help you cut down on the portion size you choose to get each time you go back for food. For instance, 3 servings on a smaller plate may equal out to around 1.5 servings on a larger plate. These servings add up, especially in the calorie department. If you do choose to use larger plates then let these plates be designated for salad, while the smaller plates can be used for heavier dishes like meats and carbs. This system might help you out enough to convince you to stick with it throughout the year.

4. Hide the Candy
It happens every year, we say we’re going to limit ourselves to a piece or two a day and then we catch a glimpse at the tasty treats just sitting there waiting for trick or treaters. It doesn’t matter what your age is, candy can be pretty tempting, which is why you should keep it out of temptation until the holiday actually arrives. It isn’t exactly convenient to go shopping for candy on the day of Halloween, so you shouldn’t have to sacrifice this in order to avoid temptation. Try putting your candy under something in a closet to keep it out of eyes reach. If you still find yourself snacking on the treats then put the candy that is harder in the freezer. This will actually prevent you from eating it right away. So, while you wait for it to thaw, you should be able to talk yourself into another snack to help remedy the problem. Of course, Halloween isn’t the only time candy is a problem. If you end up with boxes of treats for other holidays then try to follow the same procedure, or get rid of the candy faster by sharing it with friends, family and colleagues.

5. Make More Veggies
Sure, we all have our favorite dishes when it comes to the holidays, but a lot of the time we load up on far too many meats and carbs during this season. In order to reduce the temptation of only eating these dishes, you may want to add more veggie dishes to the menu. I know, it’s hard to get some members of the family to eat vegetables, but you may be surprised how great some of the recipes taste. Simply look around and see if you can replace some of your favorite dishes with a more vegetable friendly dish. For instance, if you use cauliflower rather than potatoes, you will get a creamy batch of mashed “potatoes” and gravy that everyone will adore. There’s lot of substitution tricks online, but there’s also a lot of wholesome recipes designed to make certain vegetables thrive. Of course, a salad is always a great idea too and can help reduce the amount of other foods that you eat. If you’re watching your weight though, you should try to eat more of the veggie dishes, but if you still want to indulge you can remedy the problem by eating the veggies first.

6. Donate Junk Food
Junk food is one of the main problems when it comes to gaining weight. With all of the extra calories coming in from the holidays, you may want to forget about eating junk food even more. These foods won’t just cause weight gain, but can leave you feeling unmotivated and uncomfortable during the busy time of the year. Of course, you shouldn’t simply throw out the food though. Most junk food can be donated to a local food pantry to help out families that may be struggling to get any food during a time in which most people enjoy celebrating and over-eating. By donating the food that you don’t want or food you want to avoid, you can help provide much needed calories for those that may be undernourished and hungry. You’ll feel great about your good deed and your body will feel great that you ditched the high calorie food.

7. Avoid Fast Food
The holidays are some of the worst times for cooking because most people feel burned out, especially after cooking a big feast. Of course, the leftovers eventually get eaten up or go bad, so you may want to make life simply by going out to eat or hitting the closest drive thru. As you know, fast foods aren’t exactly the best for you, especially when you’ve already been consuming too many calories. It may be in your best interest to avoid these at all cost. The visit are not only bad for your health, but the receipts eventually begin to add up, which isn’t great for your budget. Rather than eating out try to plan slow cooker meals on your busy days. If eating out for lunch is common for you, then cut back by taking a lunch into work instead. You’ll be surprised by how the weight begins to disappear.

8. Walk to the Store
Walking is one of the best ways to begin your weight loss routine. The best thing about walking is it doesn’t cost a penny and can actually save you a bit of cash. For instance, if you walk to the store, you’ll get plenty of exercise that will make you feel rejuvenated, speed up your metabolism and burn more calories. Of course, if the store is way out of walking distance then you may want to consider using public transit, as you’ll still get a fair amount of walking in this way. After the exercise you get walking to the store, you’ll feel a lot less hungry, which means you won’t want to buy as much food. Plus, since you don’t have a car to transport your items, you’ll have to keep your shopping on the leaner side, thus saving a lot more money.

9. Skip the Booze
Holidays and alcohol notoriously go hand in hand, but alcohol can be one of the main reasons you’re gaining weight during the holiday season. Although it may be hard to cut down on alcohol with everyone around you drinking, it will make you feel fulfilled and proud of yourself when you do manage to defeat the temptation. Of course, if you’re hosting your own holiday together, then you may want to make it a dry occasion to help prevent the urge to add a glass of champagne to the meal. Although alcohol does have a lot of calories, you may be able to pull off drinking a glass of red wine with your feast. The alcohol can help work as a digestive, but red wines are actually thought to be good for you. In fact, a recent study said drinking a glass of red wine is close to working out for 30 minutes. So, if temptation calls, a glass of red wine may be the solution to your holiday problem.

10. Small Burst
Working out can be tough, especially when you have to contend with a busy schedule. Rather than actually planning out long workouts, it may be more efficient for you to do small workouts throughout the day. For starters, try to add in 5 minutes of dancing every couple of hours. It’ll help boost your mood and energy, but will also get your heartrate up. You can also add in running to this mixture or anything else you actually enjoy doing. Before bed, if you can squeeze in ten minutes of yoga, you may be surprised by how well you rest. Your muscles may even feel stronger and more flexible. As far as working out in the morning goes, try to do 10 pushups and setups a day. As your body grows stronger increase the number and watch as your body and mind transform. Last but not least, there’s many 7 minute workout programs available today, which can help keep you fit. Try doing these every other day to every day to feel strong and energized. Of course, when it comes to these activities, the key is to do what your body feels good doing.

Losing weight over the holiday season may seem impossible, especially if you don’t have the money to spend on fancy diets. It doesn’t have to be though. With these handy tips, you should be able to find simple ways to work out that not only make your body feel good, but your wallet too. With any luck, none of these tasks will actually interfere with your day.

With the weather cooling down and the holidays coming up, there’s one traditional hobby that will make your entire family feel the warmth of the season. Without a doubt, that’s baking and as the temperatures grow colder your cravings for fresh baked goods are probably getting stronger. Although baking tends to be a frugal activity, there’s always room for savings no matter what we choose to do, right? With these ten tips on baking, you should be able to cut the costs of this already affordable hobby, so you and your family can enjoy the warmth of the season and the tastiness of your skills in the kitchen.

1. Use Less Ingredients
I’m sure we all have that one recipe that calls for heaps of different kinds of pricey ingredients. Although the recipe tastes out of this world as is, you can make a few alterations to help offset the cost of such a dish. For instance, if you’re making chocolate chip cookies, you don’t have to use the recommended amount to enjoy the delicious taste. Rather, you can half the recipe or add in something that isn’t as expensive to help make the taste even bolder. Sometimes, you run into food combinations that will take your breath away and save you money. Of course, you also don’t have to make the amount that the recipe produces. Simply fire up your math skills to reduce the ingredients in order to save a bit of money. Also, if the ingredient is entirely too expensive, then you may want to replace it all together. There’s many substitute options offered if you’re looking for a similar taste.

2. DIY Ingredients
A lot of people simply go to the store and don’t think twice about buying ingredients to get their baking in. Although this is fine, especially if you don’t want to add time to your baking, there is another solution to the problem which could save you a whole lot of money in the long run. That is, whipping up a few DIY ingredients. There’s lots of great recipes out there that will allow you to make your own common baking ingredients, such as baking powder, powdered sugar, food color and buttermilk. Generally, you’ll already have most of the ingredients sitting around the house, which is perfect if you’re in a pinch or just want to experiment a little more in the kitchen. You may find that this little trick is your new favorite way to add your own special touch to your baking. Some of the tricks are also healthier for you, particularly making your own food coloring out of fruits.

3. Don’t Waste
Baking can be messy, but it can also be wasteful too, which is never good when you’re on a budget. If you’re looking to cut back on your spending in this area, then you may also want to try to cut back on your wastage too. To begin with, if you have excess dough from any recipe, you can easily wrap it up and place it in the refrigerator. This can come in handy later, especially if you find yourself longing for a baked treat when you don’t want to do the excess work. You could also use the extra to try to squeeze in one last cookie or cupcake. Also, mini pies or breads will make your kids feel special, so consider that option when you’re looking at your extra dough. Other items, like parchment paper, aluminum foil and eve toothpicks can be reused at a later date to help keep you from having to rebuy these items again. Plus, recycling these items is better for the environment, so you’ll be doing your part in more ways than one.

4. Bake in Bulk
Although it’s always nice to allow the oven to heat up the home, rather than the heater, you may want to cut down on frequent baking in order to reduce the gas or electric bill. Instead, plan on a day of baking where you make several different things at once. If this seems too time consuming then simply make the dough on different occasions and freeze it until you intend on doing the actual baking. This can really make the house smell amazing and, if you plan accordingly, you can get the entire family involved which will help the kids learn how to pick up this task too. Of course, you don’t have to eat everything you bake at once. In fact, you should only keep out a small amount of food because homemade items tend to mold faster due to the fact that they don’t have preservatives. The rest of the food can be wrapped up tightly and frozen. Of course, if you’re in the mood to bake in bulk then you may want to start considering holiday gifts too. Halloween is right around the corner, which pretty much kicks off an assortment of holidays until the end of the year. So, you may want to start making all of those holiday inspired cookies now.

5. Off-Season Shopping
Even though the holiday season is coming up, October and November tend to be the best times to buy baking supplies. Many baking pans, sheets and accessories will take a great reduction in price, so make sure to browse around to see if you can find that special something you’ve been longing to use. You may not want to wait until Thanksgiving week to grab these deals though, because the price drop might quickly go back to normal or increase substantially to get more from holiday shoppers. All the same, you could find even better deals if you wait until Black Friday due to the huge sales on this day. The next time you’ll be able to save big on these supplies is after the holidays when all of the holiday themed baking items hit the clearance racks. So, it may be best to check out deals before you even think of buying your Thanksgiving Day turkey.

6. Email Brands
Letting your favorite brands know how you feel is a good way to enjoy some freebies. Some coupons that receive emails from their fans will even go the extra mile to reward them with a free product or some great coupons for being such a loyal fan. There’s actually been many stories of people emailing companies to inquire about products that they inherited from family members. Often, these products are hard to find, so when you go to replace them for sentimental value or out of loyalty, it’s a bit of a hassle. Some companies will respond to the emails by actually sending an item to the writer. As you can imagine, this certainly helps keep the loyalty going strong and even makes some customers feel relieved that they won’t have to give up on family tradition. Keeping up with your favorite brands on social media is another great way to add to the amount of coupons or freebies you can win.

7. Second Hand
They always say that products aren’t made the way they used to be. Thus, it’s no shocker that people like to look for old school items in order to improve their baking capabilities. Some companies still make these items strong and durable, but they tend to cost an arm and a leg. So, if you want to get your hands on a few durable products, then you may want to consider asking family members if they have any bakeware they’d like to part with. This may be easier said than done though because most people don’t want to give up these items. Thus, yard sales might be a more plausible option. You can always check around thrift stores too because these items are commonly found in donations. You might want to ask your local thrift store when they get new stock though because often people will come in as soon as they can to see if these pricey items are available.

8. Bulk Buys
When it comes to shopping for baking supplies, the best thing you can do is buy in bulk. Luckily, there’s lots of options when it comes to doing this and you may not even have to go to a bulk store to find the items. Flour is one of the most common items to buy this way though. You can easily find it in ten pound bags, which should last you for quite some time. You might want to find a special container to store it in though, so you don’t have to worry about it spilling or getting contaminated. Sugar is another fairly common item to find in bulk, but you might have to go to a special store to find a larger bag of it. Yeast, baking soda and other components needed to make bread and other delicious treats can also be purchased in bulk, but you may have to look online for a specialty store for these items. Last but not least, when you go to buy the extra ingredients such as nuts and fruits, you may want to actually look for a specialty store or try your farmer’s market.

9. Coupons
There’s no doubt, when it comes to baking, coupons can be your best friend if you let them be. Your local grocery store should put out a lot of coupons that will help you save on all of your cookie supplies. This will come in handy, especially during the holiday months. A lot of coupons actually come from the manufacturer though and these can really make a big difference. The best thing about them is they usually have a prolonged expiration date, which means you can use them when the price is at its best, which will save you even more money. If you have a few favorite products then you might want to sign up for the brands’ newsletters, so you’ll know when these coupons are available. Of course, don’t overlook the countless coupon websites that will give you a bunch of insights on coupons and keep you posted on all of the latest coupon deals and where you can find them.

10. Find Frugal Recipes
When it comes to baking, sometimes the savings are all in the recipe. There’s lots of recipes out there that call for a variety of items that won’t exactly save you money. However, some recipes are designed to make a tight budget flourish. Luckily, there’s lots of websites dedicated to taking delicious recipes and transforming them into an affordable meal plan. You can find basic to luxurious breads, as well as some of the household’s favorite desserts. With the simple changes you may even find you can try a bunch of new things without having to worry about the budget. All in all, if you already have a favorite recipe then you may be able to transform it into a more frugal recipe on your own. There’s lots of communities that can help you get started on this activity, if you’re feeling lost.

Baking is such an amazing part of the colder months, which is why you shouldn’t have to worry about money when it comes to making your baking great. With these simple tips you should find the savings you’ve been looking for as well as a few more you never expected. Without a doubt, this could be your best year of baking yet.

Subscription boxes have been around for quite some time now, but it wasn’t until this past year that the concept of subscribing to a random monthly or quarterly box became explosively popular. There’s boxes for just about everything now and for most people, their subscription seems to be one of the most exciting times of the month/quarter. There’s no doubt, getting a surprise in the mail can leave you feeling amazing, but do these boxes actually save you any money? By subscribing to a box of randomness, are you just throwing away money? By looking at a few different kinds of boxes, it became very easy to see that subscription boxes often deliver more than what they cost, which could make your monthly/quarterly surprise something to be even happier about.

1. Meal Subscriptions
One of the more popular boxes to hit the market actually sends food straight to your door. There’s several different companies you can choose from here, but the prices don’t vary too much. Basically, these subscriptions allow you to choose between a household of 2 or 4 and they generally send you around 3 meals a week. For some, this may not be in the budget because the companies tend to use gourmet foods, so if you’re used to getting an entire week’s worth of groceries on this budget then this may not be the route to go. All the same, the boxes do offer pretty good sized portions and you can’t really stray too far from the recommended amount of food, which is great for anyone on a diet. However, this may not be the best of choices if you’re feeding preteens or teenagers. The meals are also simple to cook and most won’t take over an hour, which suits busy lifestyles well. Of course, if you’re not into learning new recipes then some companies will actually just send a week’s worth of produce to your door. You can choose between vegetables, fruits or a mixture of both, which can help you keep your family’s produce intake healthier than ever.

2. Snack Boxes
If you’re not up for ordering entire meals online, there’s lots of snack options to choose from that will make your life easier. However, when it comes to snack boxes, they’re often hit or miss. Sometimes, you’ll find a subscription that gives you plenty of snacks that make the entire family happy. Other subscriptions will provide you with healthy treats you never thought you’d love. On the other hand, some subscriptions charge you a whole lot of money for very little. Thus, when you plan on ordering a subscription of snacks, you may want to try out a freebie first. Luckily, many of the major snack subscriptions do this by offering coupons or first box free incentives. Of course, some of the major brands will also offer you a free box after you’ve paid for a few subscriptions. This reward system often draws in more business and helps regulate the price of some of the more expensive brands out there.

3. Razors
Most people spend a lot of money on razors, which can be a huge problem if you’re on a tight budget. Usually, you can get a great deal on buying razors in bulk, but sometimes it doesn’t compare to the cost of some of the new subscription boxes. Basically, when you subscribe to a box for razors you can choose if you want a basic blade, or if you’d like more than one. Generally, you get around 3 razors to last you the month and the price tag is so low you won’t believe your eyes. Sometimes the boxes will have men and women’s separate subscriptions, but often they provide a unisex blade that will work wonders on your skin. There’s also subscription boxes that will supply you with items designed to help make your shaving experience better, such as creams and lotions. Of course, if you’re not sure if three razors will last you the month, there’s also measures you can take to help make the blades last much longer.

4. Makeup
This is actually one of the hardest subscriptions to judge as there are so many and each has its own individual price. Some boxes, like Julep, tend to concentrate on higher end nail polishes. Although the price of the items you receive is worth more than what you pay, they still use items that have a price tag that you may not normally be willing to pay. Of course, this service does allow you to swap out items in your monthly subscription, so you won’t be surprised with a box of items you simply won’t like. Other boxes tend to provide samples of makeup, which is perfect if you like to try new things. Generally, these boxes cost a whole lot less and will open up your eyes to some of the freshest products on the market. However, if you tend to like specific items, then this is a route you might not want to take. The best thing you can do here is either try out the box for free or a reduced price, or browse around to see what is actually in the box and if it is worth the price tag.

5. Pet Supplies
Another great thing you can order in a subscription box is pet supplies. There’s a lot of great options available, but most of these boxes revolve around toys. Although the market is currently more based around dogs and cats, if you do a little research you might uncover a few boxes for other pets too. Of course, if you’re looking for boxes for your cat, the options may be a bit limited as well since cats generally aren’t as rough on toys. There’s lots of options for dogs though. If you have a dog that goes through toys very fast, then this will certainly save you money. The subscription boxes usually come with a few toys and some sample items. However, if your pet is older or not so rough on toys then you may want to rethink the box. Sometimes you can find toys at a cheaper price. There are subscription boxes that are a bit cheaper though, which are filled with treats and other sample items.

6. Geek Stuff
One of the biggest hits this year has been subscription boxes that cater to the geeky side in all of us. These boxes are generally filled with comics, books, collectibles and toys. Generally, these boxes are worth a lot more than they charge, especially since each contains a t-shirt. The only problem is, you don’t know what you’re going to get. If you’re good with surprises then you’ll probably have a pretty good time with these boxes. Plus, most of the subscription boxes offer themes, so if you’re not keen on one theme then you cancel or pause your subscription until something else catches your eye. The key to these boxes is to look for subscriptions that offer free gifts when you subscribe in advance. This will allow you to get even more for your money. Of course, some of these boxes do come from abroad, so look out for extra shipping. Of course, items you don’t like can always be gifted to friends later, which will save you even more money.

7. Alcohol
If you’re looking for a cheaper way to get some of the best alcohol around then you might want to try a subscription box. There’s a lot of wine subscription boxes, which will not only save you some money, but will also offer you a lot of new wines to try. Some of the subscription boxes will actually have a wine subscription taste guide, so they can help you pick the best wines, or they may have a quick quiz so they match you with something they believe you’ll love. Generally, these subscriptions end up costing you about $13 a bottle, which isn’t bad if you are a wine enthusiast. Normally, you’ll get about 3 different bottles a month too, which is great if you’re stocking up for the holidays. There’s also a few craft beer subscription boxes, but these can be hit or miss, especially if you only like a particular type of beer. Last but not least, there are subscriptions for liquor; however, these can really cost you a lot for mere samples of the whiskey, scotch, rum, tequila or vodka. So, unless you’re willing to splurge and you want to play the field, it may be best just to buy your favorite brands outright.

8. Travel Boxes
Those that love to travel, but don’t often get the opportunity too, may love this box. Some of the subscriptions will send you a new location monthly or quarterly, so you’ll get to try scents, tastes, sounds and sights for the country of the subscription period. This is a great way to get to know locations you’ve never even heard of and may inspire you to plan a vacation to somewhere you never thought possible. Of course, there’s also travel boxes for people who used to live in certain areas, but no longer get to see or experience the local charm. For instance, San Francisco has a special box that will send you foods, drinks, keepsakes and even fog, to help you get over your homesickness. Other boxes may come with candies from your country of origin and so on. If you browse around, you may be surprised by the wonders you find.

9. Kids Supplies
When it comes down to it, one of the best things you can order is a subscription box for your kids. Although there are many designed with kids toys, there’s even more designed to help your child’s creativity and intelligence grow. Some of the subscriptions come filled with all sorts of art supplies and a project for them to enjoy throughout the month. Other boxes come with a science or engineering task, which will help inspire your child to enjoy math and science a whole lot more than they would without these fun projects. For younger children, you can find boxes with flash cards, toys designed to help with motor functions and other necessary items to help your baby’s mind grow strong in a hurry. There’s also baby supplies that are all natural, so you can skip any chemical add-ons to your child’s early life.

10. Health Supplies
If you have a hard time deciding which soap or shampoo you want to use, then this is a great choice for you. There’s lots of health supply boxes that come with new natural soaps, lotions and fragrances. Of course, they also have snacks, vitamins, supplements and items used to help your workout thrive. This box is often a great price because these products tend to cost a small fortune. Plus, you can easily find some of the supplements or foods that work best for your body, which is absolutely pricey to try straight from the store. You may even find workout videos and other amazing items to help keep you fit in these monthly boxes.

So, all in all, subscription boxes can really save you a bundle if you can budget the money in for them. Luckily, most of these boxes don’t cost over $30, but are worth far more than you pay. Plus, there’s always coupons and savings codes that will help you cut down on the price, so you can enjoy your monthly surprises even more. After all, what’s life without a little something to look forward to, even if it is wondering what shampoo you’re getting to get this month.