Grocery Display Tactics

Marketing research and psychological evaluations reveal the most effective ways to make consumers most susceptible to overspending, and these studies are exploited for maximum financial gain. Here are some tactics incorporatd with shelf display according to supermarket guru, Phil Lepert:

1. Eye Level Trick
The most expensive products are often located at eye level, while inexpensive choices are closest to the ground and furthest away from consumers.

2. End of Aisle Displays
Not every product that's on display at the end of aisles are a bargain. Many times they're intentionally isolated from their similar products to entice consumers at a cheap rate because the grocery stores are trying to get rid of them. Be sure to check the expiration date before overbuying items that'll expire in less than a month!

3. Candy Next to Cereal
Candy placed right next to the cereal is a parent's worst nightmare. As an attempt to shut their children up, parents end up purchasing a ridiculous amount of candy. So the prices are jacked up. This is also why you can find candy in another aisle. The candy next to the cereal is merely a marketing tactic.

4. Shelves Change Frequently
Marketers frequently rearrange their shelves, forcing consumers to search for their regular purchases as a way to make consumers unnecessarily view products they wouldn't otherwise purchase. This is also done to get consumers used to grabbing their regular items based on location and accidentally grabbing a pricier brand. So always inspect what you're grabbing.

5. Pre-cut Fruits
Pre-sliced fruits are deliciously on display like food porn at an exorbitant cost.

6. Cluttered Display
An overwhelming amount of sale signs cluttered throughout the store make subconscious suggestions in consumers' minds that so many items are a bargain when they really aren't.

7. Prepared Meals
Prepared meals are within visual range as you enter and exit your grocery store, displaying the convenience right in front of you, sometimes associated with free samples.

8. Encouragement to Stay Longer
Sometimes a little coffee area with a TV lounge is available. It encourages customers to stay longer, regroup, and relax because a relaxed consumer is a more generous one.

Milk

Find out how much your milk costs at your gas stations. Some people find the best value at the quick mart than they do at supermarkets. Powdered milk is generally cheaper than fresh milk, too. Powdered milk doesn't taste as good and takes a while to adapt to. Drink it when it's icy cold for the best flavor. If you really can't stand the flavor of powdered milk, consider adding it to soups and other cooked foods. I buy a large batch of powdered milk during the cold season and use it in my bath water for a relaxing experience.

Leftover Soup

If you're flat broke, here's a meal idea. Set aside your leftovers and store in the freezer. At the end of the week, throw everything into a pot (bits of meat, veggies, rice, beans, pasta, etc.) with water or chicken stock. Season it with spices, fresh herbs, and cook until heated through. Just be sure to not use this method with fish, which can stink up and ruin the entire dish. Don't expect this meal to be scrumptious. It's just a choice when you're strapped for cash.

The Worst Days to go Grocery Shopping

Here is a list of the worst days to go grocery shopping that was developed and compiled with the contributions of supermarket managers from around the country.

1. Christmas Eve
2. Fourth of July
3. Labor Day
4. Memorial Day
5. Thanksgiving Eve
6. Saturdays
7. Sundays
8. Afternoons between 4 - 7 p.m.
9. The day after a disaster such as an earthquake, hurricane, or tornado
10. The day after Thanksgiving

How to Grocery Shop Wisely

Here are some insightful suggestions from the supermarket guru, Phil Lepert. With the ethanol problem, cooking oils, corn, and gas prices are high. So it's more important now more than ever to buy produce in season because when it isn't, the costs are higher because of the long distances its traveled. When produce such as blueberries aren't in season, it's cheaper and more tasty to buy the frozen versions because they were packaged during the season's peak. And since the out-of-season produce arrive from long distances, the cost of gas is factored into the final retail price. Cheese in the dairy aisle is most affordable, 20% less than the deli cheeses and 30% less than the cheese table. For pasta sauces, buy canned stewed tomatoes rather than pasta sauce which is filled with tomato sauce, canola oil, corn syrup, fructose, and many other ingredients that increase its value. Tomato paste can be added to stewed tomatoes cheaply. You can also buy basil and garlic infused stewed tomatoes for the same price. Stewed tomatoes are also packaged during the peak's season, so they can have a richer flavor than fresh tomatoes, which is pricier and require more assembly. When you're buying fish such as salmon, the frozen packages are almost half the price and worth the bargain since "fresh" salmon has at one point been frozen previously and recently thawed anyways.

Important Documents

Organization is the key to not losing things. By keeping each family member's birth certificate in one designated area, preferably a security deposit box or some sort of box that requires a password to open. Consider using a fireproof and waterproof box. If your home becomes dilapidated from a fire or over flooded, you'll probably need your documents more than ever. By designating a specific spot, you also won't have to pay for a replacement.

Movie Lovers

For movie lovers, consider creating a gift basket centered around that theme for birthday or Christmas presents.

Two or three favorite movies and I like adding a wild card (a movie you think s/he might like)
Gourmet Popcorn
A selection of concession stand candy (I recommend a combination of chewy, chocolately, sweet, and sour combination)
Soda
Maybe even something salty and crunchy like chips

Gift of Time

If you're handy around the house, you're artistic, or you think you possess something of possible value to others, consider offering the gift of time.

Find the Right Blanket

Blankets come in thermal or conventional styles. Thermals are made of cotton or synthetic materials, intended for cooler temperatures and have an open weave design. Conventional blankets are usually made of wool, wool blends, or synthetics and have a tighter weave for warmer comfort.

Layer Blankets for Added Warmth

If you're cold, two light blankets will keep you warmer than one heavy blanket because each layer increases your warmth by about 3%. By efficiently staying warm, you reduce the likeliness of turning on the heater.

Book Swaps

If you have too many books you're no longer interested in, you can throw a book swap among your friends. You can offer a finger food menu or ask everyone to bring a dish and any books they're willing to swap. There are also book swaps available in many cities, as well. Check with your city or local library.

Recycle an Old Bookcase

Recycle an old bookcase that has weak shelves or one that you want to retire for a better bookcase into an under-the-bed storage unit. Obviously I'm referring to the bookcases with backings. Just add casters on the bottom. You already have built-in shelves and everything.

The Shelf Life for Bread

Fresh bread generally keeps for five to seven days, but the details depends on the weight. The lighter breads evaporate moisture faster, so it get stale quicker. You can prolong its shelf life by storing your bread in the refrigerator. It won't taste as fresh, but you can remedy that by toasting your bread or making French toast with it. For longer shelf life breads, rolls and bagels are preferable.

Uses for Stale Bread

Don't throw out stale bread. There are plenty of ways to use them. Depending on the stage of staleness, toasting the bread can reduce the stale flavor. French toast actually works best with stale bread. You can also make your own Croutons and dried breadcrumbs for a chicken recipe. They also work well in creamy soups such as tomato or chowder. Just cubed them and let it soak up the liquids.

Remedy Burned Bread Tops

By learning of ways to fix food mistakes, you don't waste food by unnecessarily throwing them out. Here's an example: If your bread burns, use a grater or a good serrated knife to remove the charred area. Then brush the exposed area with egg polk and return the loaf to the oven for two minutes or until brown.

Strengthen Buttons

To keep your buttons in place for longer, dab the back of the bottom with clear nail polish. Not every buttoned shirts we own unbuttons. By taking good care of your clothes, you can prevent the need to buy thread, needle, and maybe a new button.

Monitor Hospital Activities

Hospitals are notorious for overcharging and even including duplicating additional expenses that patients aren't responsible for in a confusing format, anticipating that most patients will unquestioningly pay the bills. To prevent yourself from being a victim, create a daily inventory of all of your activities: administered medications, procedures, tests, services, food, etc. Compare your inventory to the hospital bill. Discuss any discrepancies with the billing office immediately. Having a reference will expedite any remedial alterations.

Bring Your Own Supplies to the Hospital

Avoid steep hospital charges for vitamins, aspirin, lotion, telephone services, etc. by bringing your own. We can't always anticipate when we'll visit a hospital, so I highly recommend creating your own overnight stay bag with necessary supplies (shampoo, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, vitamins, eyeglasses or contacts, tampons, spare clothes for when you leave the hospital, entertaining activities, etc.) At the very least, create a list of items you would want to have at the hospital and place it in a location that's accessible to others. Have someone you trust gather items from your list and bring it to the hospital.

Wine Bottle as a Rolling Pin

If you can't rationalize buying a rolling pin, consider substituting a wine bottle as one.

Cloth Napkins

Consider switching to using cloth napkins. They're not reserved for fancy restaurants anymore. In fact, they're economical and environmentally-conscious. Think about the money you'd be saving. If you bleach your whites, consider buying white cloth napkins or else buy dark colored choices and wash them weekly with your regular laundering.

Buy Buckets

I know it sounds like an odd suggestion, but you never know when they'll be helpful, and they're so versatile. You can use it when you mop. You can fill them up with water if you live in an apartment complex and are told that water will be shut off for a while. After you use the bathroom, fill the toilet with water to force a flush. It's great for soaking stains and hand washing lingerie. (I'm unable to wash in my bathtub because I have a bad back). The best time ever to have a bucket is when you're feeling sick or you're throwing a party. If you're sick, you should be in bed resting. But a sick person shouldn't clean vomited sheets. So a simple solution is a bucket. And we all know those fake people who think they can handle their liquor and after two beers are ready throw up their lungs. I say trust no one, and have a bucket ready.

Baking Soda Expiration Date

I'm skeptical to trust shelf life guidelines, as they can be outrageously inconsistent and don't account for various factors. The general rule is that baking soda lasts for six months. If you question its freshness or it's been more than six months, you can assess its freshness by adding some vinegar to it. If the baking soda bubbles, it's still good. If it doesn't, it's past its prime. Throw it away. Test it out this way before baking an entire batch of baked goods and wasting other perfectly fresh ingredients.

Ways to Cool Down Naturally Without Raising Your Electric Bill

In the dead of heat, strip down to a spaghetti strap top and short shorts. Pull your hair up. Replenish yourself regularly to cool your body temperature. Eat light foods, as digestion uses a lot of energy and raises your body temperature. Stick to sandwiches, salads, fruits, and stay away from oven cooking. A slow cooker is energy-efficient and uses less heat, too. Just begin the night before and wake up to an already cooked meal. Try using a Japanese sandalwood fan, which has a light and refreshing scent. Rather than turning on the AC, consider buying a small fan focused on one area. It'll more efficiently cool the place down.

How to Tell If Your Eggs are Fresh or Expired

Rather than trusting the expiration date written on the carton and possibly disposing edible eggs, inspect it this way. Place the egg in a pan of cold water. If it sits on its side, the egg is still fresh. If, however, it tilts on an angle, it's past its prime by about three to four days. If the egg stands upright, it's approximately ten days old. If the egg floats to the top, it's really, really old.

Long Burning Candles

By transferring your taper candles in the freezer for a few hours before use, it'll burn for twice as long.

Makeup on a Budget

If you're on a budget, prioritize money for high-end foundation and concealer. Flawless skin can only be achieved with superior ingredients that glide on smoothly. Eye shadows, eye liners, mascaras, lip liners, lipsticks, and lip glosses are similar in formulation. In fact, many department store brands also own drugstore brands, too.

Replace Your Sponges Regularly, Affordably

How often sponges should be replaced vary largely from every two weeks, once a month, to a every few months. I prefer to replace mine every month, considering the contaminant exposure my sponges face: raw poultry and meat juices leftover on cutting boards, fats and greases from various foods, the damp and moist environment sponges live in, etc. Experts claim that sponges can be as dirty as raw poultry! To make replacements more affordable, I buy my sponges at the 99 cents store. I get 6 sponges for 99 cents! They're surprisingly durable and don't scratch my cookware surfaces.

Using Towels as Buffers

When you're packing breakable or rough-surfaced items such as dishes and cookware, wrap them in towels to protect them. It's cheaper than buying bubble wrap. Plus if the towels are clean and the dishes and cookware are, which they should be, you can skip the washing process as you unpack them.

Decorating for Christmas

If, for whatever reason, a Christmas tree is out of the question, either because you can't afford one or you don't have the space for it, you can still create a Holiday atmosphere. You can get a wreath and/or hang Christmas lights around the wall. But if you can't afford one, try buying a box of Christmas ornaments from the 99 cents store and place them around your home. You can also buy stocking stuffers and a gingerbread house.

Transform Your Lipstick into Lipgloss

Transform your lipstick into a lip gloss by melting your lipstick and a little Vaseline into a tiny jar. Mix it together and enjoy.

Microfiber Cloths

Replace your disposable one-time use paper towels with microfiber cloths. They're made of superior quality and can hold five to seven times its weight in water. They're also re-usable and versatile. You can use it to clean the dishes, dry the dishes, clean the counter, windows, mirrors, etc.

Make Your Own Vegetable Platter

Cut up fresh broccolis, carrots, celery, and radishes, all affordable veggies you should already have stocked in your kitchen. Store them in water to keep them fresh and crispy. You can dip them in Ranch dressing, hummus, onion dip, or another inexpensive dipping sauce of your choice.

A Cheap Snack Idea

Popcorn is a nutritious, light, and extraordinary cheap snack choice. You can also customize it to your flavor preference. Try it with a sprinkle of paprika or lemon pepper, whatever you'd like.

An At-Home Buffet Concept

At buffets, food selections lack cohesiveness are offered at a bargain. You can re-create that concept at home by turning your accumulated leftovers earlier in the week into an at-home buffet meal.

Categorize Your Expenses

The first step to financial equilibrium is organization. Once you categorize your expenses, you can set aside a specified amount of money.

~Housing: mortgage/rent, repairs, property taxes, cleaning supplies, home owner's/renter's insurance, utilities, furnishings, decor

~Food: groceries, eating out, takeout delivery, snacks and beverages at work

~Transportation: car payments, insurance, gas, oil, parking, repairs/maintenance, public transportation fees

~Medical: insurance, out of pocket expenses such as deductibles and non-insurance covered medical services, prescription medications, eye care, dental

~Clothing: new purchases, dry cleaning, repair

~Personal: cosmetics, haircuts, skincare and bath products, personal hygiene products

~Insurance: life insurance and any other insurance not covered under home, transportation, or medical expenses

~Education: tuition, miscellaneous educational expenses, school pictures, yearbooks, school supplies, books

~Credit Accounts: major credit cards, department store cards, any other outstanding debts

~Gifts: holidays, birthdays, graduations, weddings, showers

~Recreation: vacations, movies, books, magazines, newspapers, cable TV, restaurants, sporting events, sports equipment

~Savings: long term and short term goals, as well as retirement

~Donations: charities

Source: Frugal Living for Dummies

Teaching Children About Finances

Whether children should be exposed to finances at an early age is subjective, but finance is something we all have to face. The way I see it, knowledge is danger but so is ignorance. The more practice and understanding we all have of something, the more aware we are and the more manageable it becomes. With that said, with proper guidance teaching children about finances can be an invaluable lesson, not just about money but also about compassion, generosity, time management, prioritizing, forethought, impulses, responsibilities, and a myriad of other lessons. Create a four bank system, which can be stored in piggy banks, boxes, etc. You can even turn it into an arts & craft decorating day.

~Giving (10%) Donation fund that goes to a needy family, charity organization, etc.

~Spending (30%) A discretionary fund that can be used on whatever their impulses drive them to.

~Short-Term Savings (30%) Funding for pricier items such as a new bicycle or a stereo, things that require some financial accumulation

~Long-Term Savings (30%) Intended for future purchases such as a car, traveling, or college expenses.

Source: Frugal Living for Dummies

National Foundation for Credit Counseling

If finances are out of control, consider seeking professional advice such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, a nationwide non-profit network of Consumer Credit Counseling Services. For more information, go to www.nfcc.org or call 1-800-388-CCCS.

Three Checking Account System for Couples

For young couples who move in together, finances quickly become the primary source of argument due to poor planning, lack of effective communication, and different spending habits. The reality of the matter is no one is going to change their spending habits until they're ready. Attempting to expedite that process is just welcoming confrontation. Live and enjoy. Life shouldn't be spent wasted on futile arguments, and simple communication and proper planning can come to your aid. Open three checking accounts, one joint account for paying the combined expenses (those expenses should be specified and agreed upon ahead of time) and an individual account for each person. A predetermined amount should be deposited into the joint account on payday. Remaining money can be used freely after living expenses are met.

Source: Frugal Living for Dummies

Gift Expenses

1. Cut back on gift expenses by playing Secret Santa. Or suggest just buying gifts for the children.

2. Stock up on gift wrap and gift packages after the Holidays.

3. Get gift boxes from department stores, and present the gift unwrapped and boxed. Throughout the year when you make purchases, just ask for a complimentary box.

Fun $

Set up a small fund of discretionary money. Transfer a small amount of money into that account automatically, anywhere from $5 to $20 a month. Any money in this account can be spent on whatever you please.

Reduce Your Debt

1. Try not to extract your credit card for every purchase. Leave your credit cards, debit cards, and checkbooks at home,

2. Avoid carrying a lot of cash if you can.

3. Sometimes, you just come across something that you really want to get and can be justified. If you have developed enough self-control, consider putting some money into a sealed envelope labeled, "Emergency Only!". Carefully evaluate your decision before prying it open.

4. If you find something you want to purchase, think it over for a couple of days. If you still want it, are willing to make the trip to purchase it, AND it's a rational purchase, then buy it. Clear-headedness is difficult to achieve when you're delirious.

Cleaning Frugal Style

1. Clean the toilet bowl by pouring a cup of full-strength vinegaar into it overnight. Scrub clean the next morning.

2. Disinfect your mirrors, windows, and countertops with vinegar. It's inexpensive and environmentally-conscious.

3. Replace your disposable paper towels with re-usable microfiber cloths.

4. Cut your fabric softener sheets in half. Half the size works just as well. Generics also work equally well as the name brand stuff, too. Alternatively, you can buy dryer balls and replace them annually.

5. Soak your dishes before washing them, so you don't waste water.

Saving on Utilities

1. Check your bill statements and inspect any extra services you're being charged for such as call forward or voice messaging on your phone bill. Cancel any services you don't need.

2. Order basic cable, rather than full cable service with high-priced premium. F you can live without it, consider going without cable. But some cable/internet companies charge extra for people who seek internet service without cable.

3. Call your cable company and see if any reduction can be made to your bill statement. Explain that you're having financial complications, and the representative will be more than likely to assist you as an attempt to keep you as a customer.

4. Recycle when you can at a recycling center nearby grocery stores. The amount of money you receive can go towards groceries. Or by recycling yourself, you can reduce the amount of garbage service fee.

5. Keep curtains closed on south-facing windows when the heat is at its prime to keep your home cool.

6. Cook with small appliances that don't produce as much heat during the summer time such as a toaster, microwave, slow cooler, or electric skillet. Avoid using the stove or oven.

7. Use a draft stopper or a rolled up towel and place it at the base of your doors to keep the cold winter air from entering your home.

8. Layer when it gets cold, rather than resorting to turn on the central heating system.

9. Turn off the water while you're brushing your teeth or shaving.

10. Run the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.

11. Call your water company and find out what your peak hours are. This is the least expensive time to use services available to you.

12. Fix leaky faucets and running toilets immediately.

Prevent Fast Food and Takeout Purchases

Poor time management is an enemy for healthy nourishment and makes us susceptible to fast food and takeout. By planning ahead of time and having already assembled food accessible can prevent this money sucking habit.

-Make four sandwiches, the exact amount the large ziploc baggie can store.

-Freeze already prepared food such as:

Breakfast Items - muffins, burritos, casseroles, waffles, pancakes, French toast

Lunch - meat and cheese sandwiches, single-serving desserts, soups, chili,

Dinner - main dish casseroles, soups, meat in marinade, rice pilaf, pre-made hamburger patties

Desserts - cake, brownies, cookies, dessert breads, pie

Make Your Own Ice Pack

The next time BevMo has a buy 1 bottle and get the second bottle for $1 special, take advantage of the deal...unless you're an alcoholic. I love to cook with white wine, so I stock up when I can. White wine can go bad easily in the fridge but will last much longer in the freezer. Once you open a bottle and you don't plan on using it right away, transfer the contents into ziploc baggies. Because of the alcoholic content, the wine won't completely freeze. It'll actually be slushy in texture, which means that this ice pack will conform to the located injury. Reserve a specific bag just for icing a wound. Do not, I repeat, do not use the wine you applied over a wound in a recipe. It's already been contaminated, which is why I recommend designating a specific bag for the sole purpose of icing a wound.

Toothpick in Lemon for Just a Squeeze

If you need just a pinch of lemon juice, poke a lemon with a toothpick and squeeze until you get the right amount of juice out, instead of cutting a lemon in half.

Make Your Own Exfoliant

Make your own exfoliant by adding a little baking soda into your face cleanser and body wash. It's inexpensive and a good way to use up leftover baking soda.

Split Groceries with Friends

Unless you have a huge family, splitting the groceries with a friend is a good way to save money especially if you're a renter like me. Depending on your eating and cooking habits, some good choices are bread, eggs, carrots, celery, fruits, chicken breasts, flour, sugar, and baking soda to name a few.

Shampoo and Deep Conditioning Treatment: No Conditioner

My hairstylist skips daily conditioners and goes straight to deep conditioning treatments because daily conditioners don't work very effectively as leave-in conditioners. By incorporating this hair care routine, you can save some money because you won't be using the product as frequently. But you're not using more of the product at a time. While deep conditioners can cost more, if you buy it on sale, you can pay the same amount as a daily conditioner and make it last longer. This will also save you time. And you know what they say; time is money.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is nature's miracle and works wonders as a skincare product. You can use it as a moisturizer for all skin types, hair gel, dark circle treatments, cuts, dry skin, sunburned skin, and firming mask. Use it during the daytime as a light moisturizer or at night as a skin treatment if you're in your 20s. What's even better is that the cost is a fraction of most specialty products. It's also a great staple in a first aid kit. Note: The superior type of aloe vera is aloe barbendensis.

Checks Unlimited

You can get the best deal on checks by buying them from www.checksunlimited.com. You can always get them from your bank, but it's a much better deal here unless your bank offers free checks. You can get 4 boxes of duplicate checks for $51.80. And you can select which style you prefer. This company is secure and efficient.

A Juvenile Solution

Here's an inexpensive way to recycle and reinvent your wardrobe. Consider dying your clothes. If you find your black clothes fading, don't throw it out. Simply dye it back to its original color. Add longevity to your jeans by buying lighter shades when they're on sale. I recommend stocking up. If your weight is stable, I would venture that two pairs would be sufficient. You can dye one pair a darker shade and keep the original color for the other pair. Or wait until you get bored of the color and go for a different look in a couple of months. You can also bleach your clothes, too. It's become crucial for me to practice this because there are a lot of great tops in what I consider tacky shades (emerald green, creamy yellows, fluorescent oranges, etc). If you happen to like brighter clothes, even better. I'm not saying you shouldn't update your wardrobe seasonally. But do what you can to cut corners.

Double the Product, Double the Bargain

When my (then) boyfriend and I first moved into an apartment together, we bought a dual showerhead. Since we liked taking showers together, and he was tired of me hogging all of the water, he thought it'd be a good idea. We bought it for that purpose. But years later, we've broken up, and I have two shower heads. It seemed awkward, but now that the primary shower head has crapped out, I'm really grateful for the investment. A single shower head was priced at $50, while the dual shower head was worth $60. It was an easy choice. Living in a city that has hard water, I've been diligent about soaking the head in vinegar overnight every few months. After the first couple clogs, I started doing it routinely as a preventive measure. After almost two years, though, it was inevitable. My shower head's seal broke on the corner. I've never seen this happen before, so I was stunned. But my friend assured me that this happens, although usually it takes a while longer for shower heads to die. I suspect the hard water expedited the process. I certainly didn't set aside money to replace a shower head, which is something I plan to do now. In the meantime, the spare shower head has really helped me out. So, as odd as it seems, I recommend buying a dual shower head at Target. It'll serve you well. The next time I go to Target, I'll jot down the brand and list it.

3-in-1 Product: Baby Shampoo

This is every typical girl's best friend. It's shampoo, makeup brush cleaner, and lingerie washing detergent. Baby shampoo can be used as a basic shampoo, but I reach for it as a clarifying shampoo substitute because it has the least amount of chemicals pumped into it. Since I don't use it as a shampoo often and the other tasks I use it for doesn't require much of the product, either, this is a lasting investment.

I also use baby shampoo to wash my makeup brushes. It's important to keep them sanitary, but washing them properly with a gentle cleanser such as this one prolongs its lifespan, too. Since you have to clean them anyways, you might as well reach for the product that's a bargain and is gentlest. Some beauty companies manufacture their own makeup brush cleaner, but they're pricey and contain unnecessary ingredients that are harsh. The product may have been specifically developed to understand and sanitize your brushes. But which do you think is gentler, a product created for sensitive newborns or a beauty company focused purely on cleaning brushes that can't make complaints that already pump harmful ingredients into our beauty products? Your choice.

I dedicate one day out of the week, usually a Sunday for me, to do my cleaning. I start by filling my bathroom sink with lukewarm water and a small dollop of baby shampoo. You really don't need that much. I dip only the bristles, not the handle, in the water with my right hand. I immerse my left hand in a soapy liquid and brush the debris clean onto it in a swishing motion. I do this until no more color bleeds onto my hand. Then, I place the newly washed brush on the side of the sink with the wet brush off of the counter and toward the sink. I repeat this task with every brush. I, then, drain the water and add a little more soap on my hand, if necessary for a final rinse, but I don't bother to refill the sink. When I'm finished, I thoroughly clean the sink with a spray bottle of vinegar and microfiber cloth. (You may wonder why I go through the trouble of cleaning a surface that's just been soaking in soap. Well, the residue from the soap can be left behind, but the vinegar clears it right up).

I repeat the same process of filling the sink with warm water and a little baby shampoo. But this time it's to wash my delicates. I begin with panties. I like taking the extra measure and prewashing them before I put it through the gentle cycle in the washer with a lingerie mesh bag. Not all washers are equally effective. It's a disgusting thought and a disturbing reality. I sometimes repeat the procedure for security measures. I started developing that habit when the washer and dryer in my complex was being "serviced" for over a month! Self-service laundry is distanced in my neighborhood. I have outdoor allergies that reach life-threatening fevers. I don't have a car. The challenges are endless. So, I started handwashing my clothes. It was a necessity in th beginning because I was sick and couldn't go out, but I refused to be unsanitary. I kind of enjoy it now. It allows me to focus on only one task at hand. You'll learn that you really don't need that much shampoo. I begin with the panties (even though they aren't as, ahem, clean) because it's easier. I want them to start drying earlier since it takes longer. Once I'm finished with those, I proceed to the bras. Of course, as I've already stated, after each wash, I thoroughly disinfect the sink with vinegar and a microfiber cloth. You don't have to, but I like to keep a good habit. OCD consequence. I'm actually considering to purchase a lingerie drying rack and hanging it in the bathroom. That way I can finish rinsing the bras with the shower hose, which is easier because baby shampoo doesn't rinse off as easily on bras as it does panties. You may also wonder why I don't use the bathtub. Partly because I have a bad back but also because I came across a disturbing discovery: a bathtub is one of the top ten dirtiest places in the United States.

Bathtub startling fact: Let's face it, people. Do you really wash your bathtub daily or at least three times a week? It's unrealistic. Even if you are, you're probably not doing it correctly. You're supposed to use a bleach solution (which I don't even use because of the harmful contaminants). Then scrub thoroughly, and repeat the process. After you thoroughly rinse the tub with clean water, you have to dry it off completely. To maintain that cleanliness, you must thoroughly dry off the entire bath tub and wall surface each and every time it gets damp. Who does that? I put my bath mat in the washer every week. In the meantime, I use the Clorox bath wand to disinfect the walls, tubs, and doors. After a thoroughly rinse, I dry everything off completely. I also towel dry the bath mat before placing it down. But I don't remove the bath mat and thoroughly dry the walls, the tub, the doors, and the mat after each use. So, even my bathtub is considerably infested with germs. And I happen to put more diligent effort than others. It just seems futile and strenuous to "clean" my undergarments to further contaminate them.

Buy Realistically and For Convenience

It's important to live healthfully, but it's equally important to be realistic. Fresh produce and fresh meat that requires assembly is much healthier than ready made food. But purchasing healthier choices that you never use is self-defeating. Then you're just wasting money, and either you go hungry or you spend money elsewhere, as well. I'm not suggesting that you stock up exclusively on canned goods and TV dinners. But if it's unlikely that you'll finish that box of fresh corn, it's preferable to buy canned or frozen corn. The dilemma for me is choosing between frozen and canned. I have more cupboard space than I do freezer space, but filling up my freezer makes it more efficient. Then again, if I have a blackout, I'll be unable to access food from my refrigerator or freezer. Plus, I have to thaw or cook frozen foods, while canned versions are ready to cook or eat.

99 Cents or One Dollar Tree Stores

99 Cents store or the Dollar Tree store offers an abundance of products we normally get at K Mart, Target, Walgreens, or Wal-Mart for no more than a dollar! Don't believe the misconception that the products are inferior. While there are some uncommonly known products, there are also a lot of other familiar products. Here are some brands I've found:

1720 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91106
Cross street: Meridith

-Baby Ruth
-Colgate
-Fun Dip
-Hershey's
-Hidden Valley
-Kit Kat
-Lysol
-Milky Way
-Nerds
-Pop Rocks
-Sally Hansen
-Snickers
-Softsoap
-Sugar Daddy
-Toffifay
-Totally Juicy
-Twix
-Windex
-Zote

I've also found fresh produce (apples, bell peppers, blackberries, blueberries, garlic, jalapenos, potatoes, raspberries). You can also get bacon, canned tomatoes, coconut flakes, Oscar Meyer ham, seasoning salt, gift wrap, gift bags, basic cups, tupperware, buckets, candles, etc. etc. CAUTION: I recommend staying away from products that don't offer an expiration date. This applies to any place, though. For binder papers, folders, envelopes, journals, and stuff like that, you can go for the cheap stuff. It's all the same. It's definitely worth investigating. Go there. If it's not your thing, then go elsewhere. I like to stay away from their generic brands because I don't know if it'll work well or not, so I go for the tried and true versions. If you want to experiment with new products, don't go overboard. Spending $5 on five products you'll never use isn't money well spent. You're better off buying one product that you actually use. Things I suggest you buy elsewhere: kitchen products, tools, dried fruits and nuts (they're often times rancid and rarely restocked).

ONE FINAL NOTE: I know someone who found the Texas Instrument scientific calculator valued at around $50 for only 99 cents at this location.

VONS Free Delivery Code

Vons.com has sent me another promotion code for free delivery on a minimum of $50 purchases. Who doesn't spend at least $50 on groceries? I know when you buy groceries weekly or buy meat at a butcher and produce at the Farmer's Market, it's a different story. But frozen foods, dairy, and canned products, and snacks should also be purchased. They aren't very nutritious, but I like having a variety of choices (in case I injure myself and I can't cook, there's a blackout so I can't open the refrigerator, etc). It's when I get promotion codes like these that I take advantage of the offer. Be careful, though. Sometimes I purchase things and one essential ingredient is missing, so I may have to go out and buy the remaining ingredients. It's best to leave an open schedule shortly after the delivery.

Promotion Code: FRESHNESS
Expiration Date: 5-8-08

Ways to Save on Utilities

1. Before you store leftovers in your refrigerator, let it cool to room temperature. Then cover it with plastic wrap. Warm, uncovered food requires the refrigerator to use more energy to keep the refrigerator at a cool temperature.

2.

Allergy Reducing Tips

Disclaimer: I'm not held liable for any suggestions I make that may have adverse effects on some individuals. Please check with your physician before trying anything.

While these suggestions may be successful for people with various levels of allergies such as a dust free home, realistically speaking, mild or easily controlled allergies will probably find the most relief. They may not be successful for severe allergies, but I also believe that they shouldn't exacerbate any symptoms.

1. If you're in the process of moving out and/or have an opportunity to choose between hardwood or carpeted floor, select hardwood! I'm astounded by how many people consider carpet the preferred choice. The softness can easily be achieved with a plush rug, which can be washed regularly. Carpet collects and traps a lot of dirt, bacterias, viruses, other pollutants such as allergens, and is much more susceptible to mold. Even with regular vacuuming, a rare practice, pollutants become so deeply lodged in that no amount of vacuuming can suction everything out. Additionally, a perpetual cycle will always exist with carpets. Neglecting to vacuum with amplify symptoms, but allergy victims exposed to vacuuming also exacerbates the symptoms they're trying to relieve with removal of all the pollutants. For more suggestions on carpeted floor, look under number 3.

2. If you have hardwood floor, count your blessings. While you should always clean diligently, take special care during the allergy season. Wash any rugs that you may have regularly in hot water to kill off any contaminants. Rather than sweeping with a broom, consider using a cloth mop. When you use a wet mop, make sure that you offer sufficient time to let it dry. Try mopping at night, so allergy pollutants don't cling onto the ground as much and resurface.

3. If you have carpeted floor, try to find someone else to vacuum regularly for you during allergy season. I like to arrange an exchange of services with my friend. She vacuums. I cook. Everyone wins. If you aren't that fortunate, consider investing in a robotic vacuum cleaner such as a Roomba. It may seem a little unnecessary if you already have a vacuum cleaner, but think about the relief you would be getting. And let's face it. How many of us vacuum regularly by hand anyways? You'd be investing in something productive. Unfortunately, experts agree that exclusive use of the Roomba isn't adequate. But by scheduling the Roomba to vacuum regularly, it's much gentler on your regular vacuum cleaner. I consider it a worthy purchase and can be used throughout the year. You may have difficulty justifying the amount, but a dirty home is bad for your health. Your health is a higher value than money. Unless you're suffering from outdoor allergies (which hopefully subside once you're indoors) open all of the windows when you vacuum so any dust that rises can easily exit your home. You don't want it lingering around until it settles back down. Plus, studies have found that outdoor air is cleaner than indoor air. So, the cleansing effects are beneficial, even without allergy symptoms.

4. Keep furnishings dust-free. It may seem excessive, but I like to dust my furniture with a Swiffer everyday. Rather than waiting around until the dust collects, I like to take preventive measures. If you find that the dust has accumulated to an intolerable amount, dampen it first with a wet cloth or furniture polish before running something over it. I don't recommend using lambswool or an ostrich feather. You'd simply be moving the dust around. But a Swiffer duster or microfiber cloth works beautifully.

5. Rearrange for success. Some people don't have the time to move things around, so they can safely and properly remove dust from their furnishings. If that discourages you or prevents you from doing a satisfactory job, consider rearranging things so removal of necessary items become easier. You can store certain things away during the allergy season. I have a collection of vintage perfume bottles and vases in purple that I carefully store away once my allergies become severe. I know it's difficult to part with them, but it's only temporary, and our health is top priority, not material objects. Plus if you're like me, you'll run the risk of damaging them while cleaning when you feel a sneeze coming on.

6. Buy an air purifier. The air quality has declined significantly over time that I think purchasing an air purifier is an excellent idea if you live in a poor air quality area. During allergy season, I find the most relief closest to my air purifier. If purchasing an air purifier is out of your financial capabilities, consider buying air-purifying houseplants such as peace lilies, Chinese evergreen, or Dieffenbachia. **

7. For allergy prone individuals, leather furnishings is favorable. Upholstery retains allergens. I found that out the hard way. I didn't have allergies most of my life. But when I moved to an area with a higher pollen count, I started developing symptoms. My first year, I lived in an apartment with absolutely no furniture. So I had no idea how severe my allergies can get. If you have upholstery, vacuum it regularly. I suggest purchasing a handheld vacuum cleaner. Some people think it's a waste of money because of the attachments available with their primary vacuum cleaner. But what happens if that vacuum cleaner is experiencing difficulty? That is common. Plus I find a handheld vacuum cleaner to be much easier to use. And when something is easier to use, people are more likely to take use it. Besides, how many people actually use their attachments? For really severe, life-threatening allergies, I highly recommend replacing your sofa with leather. That's a costly replacement. But isn't a healthy transition worth it? (The answer is YES!)

8. Determine if you're experiencing indoor or outdoor allergies. Hopefully, it's just one or the other. If so, try to reduce or avoid that exposure. If it's the pollen, consider staying indoors. Maybe leisure a coffee shop with a good book, enjoy a movie marathon at home, make an elaborate menu, engage in an indoor hobby you've always wanted to do but never found the time for (sewing, knitting, writing, scrapbooking, crafting, cooking, etc.) If it's an indoor allergy, open all of your windows to invite fresh air. If you're fortunate enough to live nearby a beautiful picnic, maybe you can make a practice out of visiting daily. Bring a blanket, stock up on prepackaged meals, and a good book. Invite some friends and make an entire day out of it. I like trying to do that once a week. It sure beats surfing the net. Bring a flask. Have some laughs.

9. If you need corrected vision, switch to eyeglasses. They're not as attractive as contacts, but they're also less problematic. Besides, how attractive do you think you are really if you're rubbing the hell out of your eyes because of contacts? More importantly, aside from vanity, vision is one of our senses and generally our primary ones. We only have one set of eyes. It's important to take care of them.

10. Easier said than done but resist scratching your eyes! If you're at home or nearby a sink, rinse your eyes out in lukewarm water every time you feel the urge coming on. It may seem like you'll never leave the bathroom. Sometimes, I spend most of my day in there, but it sure beats raw red skin. Applying a warm or cold compress, according to your preference, can also have soothing effects. Don't reuse the same towel! If you don't want to wash all those towels, use paper towels and dispose them after each use. Some people have find relief by applying tea bags such as chamomile over their eyes.

11. Get adequate sleep. When you're suffering from allergies, it's because your immune system is under attack. It's unable to ward off allergens. One of the worst things you can do is to stay up all night, further weakening your immune system.

12. Wash your sheets ESPECIALLY your pillow cases regularly. I wash my pillow cases every week when I do the laundry. (I wish I can say that I'm equally diligent with my fitted sheets. But who really has the time to wash them every week?) During allergy season, though, sometimes I like changing my pillow cases daily. I recommend getting a week's worth of white pillow cases so that you can wash them in the hot cycle. They're inexpensive, durable, and can be used yearly if you're prone to allergies.

13. Keep your hands clean. After you sneeze, rub your eyes, or blow your nose, your hands get dirty. It's unrealistic to clean your hands after each allergic attack, but try to develop good hygienic habits. (You really should already have them, though).

14. Disinfect surfaces. I use my cell phone, laptop, door handles, etc. Clean those contaminant areas.

15. Beware of over-the-counter allergy eye drops. It's so malicious and self-defeating. When we get itchy eyes, many of us reach for an over-the-counter remedy. The instructions usually state put one drop into each eye daily. But there is something called a rebound effect. When you use it everyday, which the warning doesn't clearly indicate, the symptoms you're trying to eliminate doesn't just return but can have return even more severe. The warning disclaimer vaguely suggests that sometimes redness may occur. It doesn't say that it's a result of the rebound effect. In fact, I've met many physicians who didn't know what a rebound effect was. When I asked a bunch of my friends little brothers and sisters what they think it might be, giving them the same context and background I provided physicians (I have severe eye allergies. I tried over the counter allergy eye drops without success. I kept getting rebound effects), many of them accurately guessed what it was, while physicians were completely baffled. Rebound effect is when you use a product to treat something by using it regularly and temporarily it may relieve your symptoms until the problem you're trying to treat returns with amplified results. I actually ended up getting conjunctivitis from my rebound effect! And no I wasn't scratching my eyes. Three consecutive days of following the instructions and boom, eye infection. But most people experience eye allergies daily so would use the medication daily. How twisted is it that their treatment can actually exacerbate the problem? If your allergies are severe, I suggest seeing a physician. and getting a prescription instead.

16. Pull your hair back. It's been years since I've needed hair gel because I live in a warm environment, but every year when I get the allergies, I have to buy some. Pollen can get trapped on our hair but also stray hair near our eyes can trigger allergic reactions. If you don't have much baby hair, using a headband might do the trick, as well. If you aren't familiar with a good brand, ask around. Do a google search and read the reviews. Ask your friends if you can test their product out. If all else fails, try using an inexpensive brand and hope for the best. Make sure that it doesn't flake because that would be self-defeating. You may have to experiment more than once. If a cheap version doesn't work well, consider upgrading. I just don't like to resort to it if a more affordable choice is available. Don't buy gel based on the packaging, design, cover, or color. Examine the ingredient list. If your first purchase didn't work out, stay away from other brands that carry the same ingredients. (Concentration of the ingredients are in order. So the first ingredient is most concentrated than the last).

17. Shower at night. Pollen clings to wet hair. By showering at night, you reduce allergic symptoms and can wash away any hair products you used earlier in the day. I also find the warm water calming and soothing, which makes me receptive to a good night's sleep. I usually like to let my hair air dry. That's why my hair is so shiny! But during allergy season, I pull out my hair dryer. If you don't own a hair dryer and have no plans purchasing one, I highly recommend getting the Turbie twist. Anyone can wrap it around their head, and it dries your hair beautifully. My hair is so thick that I actually go through two towels in a day, but they last so long that the multiple purchases are worth it.

18. Buy Puffs tissue paper. Not everyone likes how lotiony the texture is, but if you have severe allergies, the softness is much gentler for your skin. While you're at it, buy Kleenex to go packs and carry them with you. A lingering runny nose is a lot more bothersome than if you just cleared your nasal passages. Your body is trying to eliminate toxins from your body. Don't contain it.

19. Don't air dry your clothes during the springtime. Allergens cling to wet surfaces. I know it saves more money and it's the environmentally-conscious alternative, but spring is when you make the exception. How healthy of a choice is it for you if it's contributing to your allergies?

20. Replenish yourself. It's always important to hydrate yourself properly, and allergy season is no exception. If you keep losing fluids from your body, you have to replace them. You lose quite a bit of fluids with runny noses.

National Frozen Food Month

March is National Frozen Food Month. It's the best time of year to buy frozen food, as the best deals exist. This is when I like to stock up. It's ideal because frozen food has such a long shelf life that if I buy enough frozen food during this month, I don't need to buy anymore frozen food until a major sale. I recommend sweet peas, vegetable medley, corn, spinach, cherries, strawberries, TV dinners especially Marie Callender's, Banquet pot pies, Hot Pockets, Gordon's fish sticks, okra, plums, pineapples, mangoes, frozen juice concentrate, blueberries, and Totino's pizza rolls.

Prescription Discounts

I firmly believe that we live in a country whose approach to healthy lifestyle is management-symptom oriented prescription medication that's unnecessary in many circumstances. If we, as a society, stopped turning to prescription medications to correct imbalances within our body, we might put more active effort into naturally reaching equilibrium. With that said, in some circumstances, prescription medication is unavoidable. With spring approaching, I inevitably face severe allergies. I'm even at risk of reaching critical life-threatening levels. So, it's prevalent that I take prescription medication. I've explored holistic and Eastern medicine practices to reduce the intensity of my allergies, but it isn't sufficient. With each medication costing up to $200 a pop, they really add up. I wanted to share a resourceful website that offers discounts for qualifying prescription medications. It lists discount cards that offers savings on select prescription medication, and many medications are eligible. Popular medications, name brand or generics, can be eligible for special discounts such as 1 out of the 4 pills will be free, or the cost of two pills will be waived at the pharmacy's office and two more will be delivered to your home free of charge.

www.needymeds.com

I learned of this website through a social worker who works in a hospital. It's easy to use, resourceful, reliable, abundant, and informative. Social workers are a valuable asset and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to discounted medications, as it's their job to assist low-income patients. What I actually recommend is to schedule an appointment with the social worker at your hospital right after your health exam. That way any suggested medication can be reviewed with the social worker for any eligible discounts. Sometimes, a generic medication may be eligible for a discount but not the name-brand version. Aside from the substantial cost in difference, generics and name brands are usually identical. Sometimes, generics are even preferred when name-brand medications have a coating that some people are allergic to. My point is that generic versions are a favorable choice when discounts are offered. But it's best to investigate and finalize everything at the hospital, so any necessary corrections can be made right there. A lot of times, physicians prescribe the name-brand version unless it's well known that the patient prefers low cost. Sometimes, well-intended gestures can cause greater financial challenges when you learn that discounts are offered for the name-brand or the generic for the same medication instead. No matter how much you want to save money, waiting for a revised prescription may not always be advisable. Additionally, many programs that offer discounts requires an advocate such as a physician or social worker. It makes the most amount of sense.

There are other ways to save money on prescription. For example, pharmacies that reside near major hospitals for lucrative reasons often have financial arrangement made between hospital and pharmacy for first-time patients. A pharmacy may generously cover up to $200 worth of prescription medication(s) if it's your first fill. After that, the discounts usually dissolve. I recommend taking advantage of the offer. But be aware that small and local pharmacies especially ones near hospitals charge more for medications than say Target or Wal-Mart. After your first fill, it's preferrable to go somewhere else.

If you want to milk it, and you take medication(s) on a regular basis, you can hop hospitals. Large hospitals that accommodate no or low-income patients and hospitals near universities are most likely to offer discounts. By speaking to a social worker, you can find out if medication costs can be waived. And just keep doing that until it's no longer an option. Because this blog is dedicated to saving money, I mentioned this possible opportunity, but that doesn't mean I agree with it. The first time I can understand, but when arrangements are made to continue this habit when there are patients who really need the money, I find it not only distasteful but immoral. Another great way to save money on prescription medication is to ask your physician for any available samples. My optometrist has given me three bottles of prescription eye drops. That's a substantial amount of savings, and all it took was asking.

I know there are a lot of people who don't find investigating these discounts worth their time. I'm not sure why. They seem firm in their position and unaware that they're making an uninformed opinion. How can you possibly know that it's a waste of time or not worth the effort if you don't even know what the offers are? How difficult is it to open your web browser, type in www.needymeds.com and searching for the medication you need under alphabetical order? Many of us spend extensive hours online, anyways. It's not the most productive way to spend time, but since when did we start to care about spending our time more wisely? I can't help but feel like that claim is just used as an excuse to avoid inquiry. It's a quick search. Unfortunately, I've come across an exorbitant amount of lazy individuals, so my faith in people taking my advice is low. I provide phone numbers and referrals from a reputable office that's likely to recommend a competent specialist. And people manage to still ask me more questions, questions that can quickly be answered with a phone call. So I'll even do some of the work for you.

-General Discount Cards-

Discount cards for patients with no health coverage:

Merck Prescription Discount Card
Pfizer Pfriends
Together Rx Access Card

Free to low Discount Drug Cards:

AARP MemberRx Choice
www.aarp.org
Citizens Prescription Drug Program
www.citizensenergy.com/energy-assistance-citizens-health.htm
FamilyWize Prescription Drug Savings Program
www.unitedway.org

Discount cards that require a small payment each time a card is used:

Pharmacy Reward
www.pharmacyreward.com/needymeds/index.cfm
Rx Help for You
www.Rx HelpforYou.com

Eligibility details vary and must be reviewed, but I practically handed you a cheat sheet.

At the very least I urge you to ask your physician for any sample medications. Physicians are loaded with them. So, it never hurts to ask. What's the worst that can happen? You get nothing complimentary, and you're in the same position. For the possibility of saving money and being no worse off than you already are, a question that takes 30 seconds to ask is worth it!

Promo Code

Vons.com is currently having a special promotion. During your checkout, use this promo code: 2STOCKUP to take advantage of the free delivery offer that expires on March 7, 2008. There are cheaper alternatives to Vons.com, but I like having www.vons.com around. Sometimes, when the weather is unpredictably raining heavily, I prefer not to go outside. When that's the case, I don't really have the means to travel to the best bargains. Usually the delivery fee is $7.95 or $9.95 depending on the time slot you select. But if I'm not paying for the delivery fee, and I don't have the means to go out, this is actually an ideal choice. You have to buy a minimum of $50 orders. Right now, Chunky soups are having a 10 for $10 special. Marie Callender's frozen foods are also going for $3.00 each. Frozen foods are grossly overpriced, but I like having them around for emergency situations. I have back and knee problems, so it's a nice choice to have around, rather than costly takeouts.

Free Delivery

Promotion Code: 2STOCKUP

Expiration Date: 3-07-08

Ways to Warm Up Without Increasing Your Electric Bill

1. If you live in a cold environment and are renting, you should look for an apartment that covers the cost of utilities.

2. Wear thermal pants and thermal shirts underneath your regular clothes. And just keep layering until you warm up. Buy sweaters that keep you warm. As odd as it may look, put on a pair of gloves. For a better range of motion, get the fingerless gloves. If you're doing something, the movement will keep you warm. And the most important thing you can do is to wear socks. If your feet are cold, the rest of your body won't warm up.

3. If you're able, go to the smallest room in your home. A smaller room warms up more quickly than a larger one. To keep drafts at bay, buy or make a draft lodger. Simply place it under your door or by cracks where the cold enters. For a cheaper alternative, use a towel instead.

4. If you're like most people, you probably work during the day and come home at night. Keep yourself warm by working out indoors. Put a DVD workout on and do some cardio. Or you can simply jump ropes.

5. When you cook, use the oven. It'll warm up your home.

6. Consume beverages and foods that'll keep you warm such as ginger or cinnamon teas, chicken soup, or beef stew.

7. Take a bubble bath. You can relax and stay cozy.

8. When you take a shower, leave the bathroom door open. So the heat can spread throughout your home.

9. Invest in a superior down comforter that can keep you warm through the night. They're more costly but well worth the investment.

10. In other parts of your home, consider buying a warm throw for the living room.

11. If you must use a heater, use a portable one, preferably in the smallest room possible. A small heater will heat a room up more efficiently than a central heating system.

12. Unused electrical sockets invite cold air from the outside. By using those child safety plugs, you can correct this problem.

13. Preheat your bed by using a rice heating pad. Microwave it for 1 - 3 minutes. In another post, I'll discuss the details of a rice heating pad. If you don't want to go through the trouble of making a heating pad, you can purchase one at a place like Wal-Mart or K-Mart. This used to be my organization: sheets, sleeping bag, covered by a larger, thicker blanket. My blanket warmed up quickly, but without body heat, it was a real shock to the system. The sleeping bag served as a buffer. The whole assemble was worth $40, major sale at Target.

14. Just like the electrical outlets, the drains in your kitchen and bathroom leave an open space for the cold draft to enter. Cover your sinks, tubs, and shower drains when not in use. You can buy a drain cover for a dollar at virtually any hardware store.

15. While I highly recommend doing everything you can to avoid using the heater especially the central heating system, sometimes it can't be helped. But make an effort when you go to sleep by reducing the temperature 8 degrees. If you reduce the temperature this much for 8 hours each night, you can reduce your annual heating bill by 10%.

16. Install a programmable thermostat if you're able. By being able to monitor the temperature, your heating bill can be reduced significantly.

How to Save Money with Your Freezer

Rather than spending countless dollars on TV dinners and convenience foods, you can make your own. You save money and have food available for lazy days. By keeping your freezer full, it actually runs more efficiently, reducing your electric bill. The key to not falling into bad habits is prevention and preparation. Have food premixed and ready to cook for simplicity. But using your freezer for food storage isn't the only way to save money. Proper insulation and location of your freezer, among other things, also have an impact. Below I've listed some suggestions:

I seem to only have enough money for fresh foods that have to be prepared, pantry staples, or frozen food already prepared. So this is perfect. Taco seasoning and Sloppy Joe sauce are pantry staples, and they have a long shelf life. It can wait around until I buy meat and turn it into frozen prepared foods. I like having effortless meals lying around, but commercial frozen foods can get pricey. And who wants to overpay for such low maintenance food?

~Cook 5-6 lbs of ground beef to prepare several meals in advance. Split them apart and flavor them with taco seasoning, Sloppy Joe sauce, and hamburger patties. Then, you can freeze them in freezer safe bags. Label them carefully. These save a lot of time and is perfect to pull out for lazy days.

NOTE: To make perfectly shaped hamburger patties, round them into balls and place them between wax paper and flatten with a clean dinner plate. Wrap each patty with wax paper. This will make separating, freezing, and thawing much easier.

~Frugal Lemonade: In the book, Helpful Hints and Tips to Make Life Easier, I came across this interesting suggestion of buying lemons in bulk during peak seasons and making multiple batches of lemonade and freezing them. This asinine idea has saved me so many times: during heat waves, when my water was shut down, etc. What a simple and cheap way to make your freezer more efficient.

~Similarly to the frugal lemonade, you can also freeze lemon juice into ziplock baggies and ice cube trays with covers (so it won't absorb the odor of other foods such as meat). Another great way to keep your freezer efficient. It's also an easy way to always have lemon juice on hand.

~Before storing your chicken into the freezer, separate them from the package they come in. Transfer them into ziplock baggies with marinade. Not only will the chicken marinate while it's thawing, but it makes cooking a real breeze. Simply move the frozen poultry to your refrigerator the night before. When you come home, you can put it in the oven or pan-fry it.

~Always have herbs on hand. Okay, so frozen herbs aren't the freshest, but it's a good way to always have herbs on hand. Fine chop and freeze them with a small amount of water in ice cube trays. Once frozen, pop the herbiscles out and store them in freezer safe baggies. Or you can buy a bunch of ice cube trays (I suggest ones with covers) when they're on sale and store them as is. The next time a recipe calls for a specific herb, just toss in a cube. This is great for soups and stir-fries. These herbs will have a three months shelf life. Ideal freezing herbs are basil, cilantro, and parsley.

~In addition to freezing herbs, you can freeze peels and zests from citrus fruits such as lemons. You can also keep stems from fresh herbs and freeze them in resealable bags. Peels from gingers can also be saved the same way. Zests, stems, and ginger peels can also all be saved in the same ziplock bag and thrown into a pot of boiling water to make a flavorful broth to poach fish in.

~Transfer leftover white wine into a freezer safe resealable bag and place it in the freezer. White wine is amazing to deglaze with. Add 1/2 cup of white wine to a pan you just used with some stuck ons from meat, poultry, or seafood with a little butter. Drizzle over cooked food.

~For people with slow cookers, make your own version of prepackaged slow cooking recipes. My boyfriend and I recently bought a pre-made one from Marie Callender's. It contained vegetables, meat, and seasoning. We added the water ourselves. The vegetables and meat filled the slow cooker halfway, and I have a visual memory of how much water there was. You can either freeze your own produce or buy frozen vegetable medley and pour the right amount into your slow cooker. Throw in some meat. You're simply using the slow cooker as a measurement guide. Take the measured veggies, and meat and throw it into a large ziplock baggie. The next time you want something filling, hearty, and simple, pour it into your slow cooker. Memorize how much space it takes up in the ziplock baggies and fill the same amount in the future. Cook on high for four hours or cook on low for eight hours.

*Proper insulation and other money saving tips regarding your freezer will be addressed shortly.

Reduce Your Grocery Bill

1. Carry cash when you go grocery shopping to prevent yourself from over indulgence, unless you live in a bad neighborhood.

2. Make a list that you can follow. By taking the time, t helps you to focus and forces you to prioritize your ingredients. I try to include ingredients that can be used in at least three recipes. For every one ingredient that can only be used in one way, I buy three ingredients to counteract it and motivate me to find more ways to use an ingredient and restrain yourself. Be sure to include sale items on the list.

3. Shop the perimeter. All of the necessary groceries you need are there: produce, dairy, meat, and bread. Everything in between are just fillers: health care items, personal care products, convenience foods, snacks, pet care, etc. You can save a bundle by avoiding them.

4. Look through the weekly sale items on the flyer. By stocking up on sale items, I don't need too many other ingredients because I already have a generous amount of sale items.

5. If you don't already subscribe to a newspaper and aren't interested in doing so, view the weekly flyers online. Do this while you're making your grocery list.

6. Take advantage of coupons. You'd be surprised by how much money you can save by simply using coupons. It may not seem worth it for a ten cents discount, and I can relate to that, but you shouldn't eliminate coupons entirely. Some stores such as Ralph's doubles the coupon discount.

7. For those of you who don't know, when sale items are out of stock, you can ask for rain checks. These rain checks extend the discounted price for a while longer and can be used later.

8. Experiment with generics. I can't understand why some people are against generic products. If you look at the ingredients, the generics usually have the same or similar ingredients. Some generics even taste better. A generous bulk of your money is going towards packaging and paying for the label. So why not cut that cost out?

9. Pay attention to the signs above the aisle. If that aisle doesn't carry anything on your list, walk right past it.

10. Look below eye level. A common marketing tactic is to place the cheaper products below eye level, encouraging consumers to purchase the pricier items.

11. Buy meat in bulk when it's on sale and store it in the freezer. Just label the expiration date and be sure to use it before then. My favorites are boneless skinless chicken breasts, chicken drumsticks, ground beef, and beef chuck steak.

12. Consider how you're going to use an ingredient. For example, if you're planning on using fruit to make cake, you can go for overripe produce that may be a better deal. Cheaper cuts of meat can be used for a recipe that cooks for a longer period of time, allowing the meat to tenderize.

13. Buy seasonal produce at Farmer's Market. Seasonal produce are much cheaper unless grocery stores are having a sale. And even if it's not, they're much healthier because they're grown naturally and not speed ripened. So, you'll be paying a little extra for your health, which is more cost-efficient in the long run. Freeze the leftovers.

14. Take advantage of your freezer. You'd be surprised by how many things can be frozen. Buy in bulk during a sale and freeze the rest for later. That not only reduces our grocery bill, but a full freezer runs more efficiently, reducing your overall electric bill.

15. Reduce your beverage expenses. Filter your water and stop buying bottled water regularly. (I personally recommend having some bottled water in your home for emergency purposes). Restrain yourself from overindulging in sodas. If you must, try a generic brand or wait until it goes on sale. I wouldn't recommend having more than one kind of soda in your refrigerator at a time. Consider buying sugar-free powdered versions that need water. Sugar-free versions are cheaper, and you can add the sugar yourself.

16. Keep an eye out for reduced meat costs. Most grocery stores reduce the cost on meat that'll expire the next day. Try looking for meats that are already marinated to make cooking easier. But if you don't think you'll use it, don't bother wasting your money.

17. Buy candy and chocolate after the Holiday season when the best bargains are available. This forces you to restrain yourself from overconsumption and prevents your overindulgence.

18. A significant amount of your money goes towards the packaging. So rather than spending money on prepackaged items, buy the ziplock baggies and package them yourself.

19. Consider the shelf life. It isn't always a bargain to buy in bulk just because it's on sale if it has a short shelf life or you won't use it right away. Sometimes, you can use the freezer, but, other times, it just isn't a wise investment. Don't bother buying stuff that'll go bad before you have a chance to use them.

20. Store perishable foods properly.

21. Buy less convenience foods, and you'll save a bundle of money. Prepared food is more costly.

22. Check the price per pound on items to evaluate which size offers the greatest bargain.

23. Always inspect your eggs before you buy them. There's nothing you can do once you bring home broken eggs, and the effort just isn't worth it.

24. Discourage bad habits by planning ahead. If you plan to have chicken the next day, thaw it a day or two beforehand. You can even take five minutes to make the marinade and let the chicken absorb its flavor. By having the food ready for you to prepare, it keeps you from stopping by a fast food joint or ordering takeout.

25. Resist the temptation to purchase items by the checkout line. They're intended to entice you, but it's generally not worth it.

26. Before you proceed to the checkout stand, review the contents in your cart. Now's the time to make the responsible choices you couldn't make when you first grabbed he bag of chips.

27. Check your final receipt. I can't tell you how many times I've been overcharged. It's much easier to correct a $3 dispute when it's just happened.

28. Avoid purchasing personal care items and health items at the grocery stores unless they're bargain. Generally, these items are marked up a couple dollars ore than places such as Target or Walmart. But every so often, you come across a steal such as buy 1, get 1 free, in which case, buy.

29. Never shop on an empty stomach. Spending money wisely means that you have to think and behave logically and objectively, something that you're unlikely to accomplish at a grocery store when your stomach is yelling at you to eat everything in sight.

30. Don't shop when you're tired. That's when your blood pressure is low, and your body craves food that'll quickly regulate you such as carbohydrates and sweets.

31. Go alone or have company that'll keep you from splurging all of your money away. It's all about creating an environment that encourages you to be more responsible and goal-oriented.

32. Develop self-control and self-restraint. It's easier said than done, but with every rejection you make towards your self-indulgence and impulses, you'll become stronger. Just remember that it's okay to say no.

33. Until you have the self-control and self-restraint to make responsible choices, don't test your weakness at the expense of your paycheck. Steer clear of aisles that carry foods that you don't need but are likely to purchase.

34. If you're truly intent on buying only a few items, stop by the grocery store during a lunch break and grab a basket, rather than a shopping cart.

35. Find out how much store brand milk is at your gas station. Many people have found the best priced milk there.

36. If you purchased something that isn't edible, call the food company to file a complaint. A replacement coupon is sent to you. Sometimes, positive feedback can also be rewarded with a coupon.

37. Really ask yourself if you need those sale items. It's important to distinguish between proceeding with a purchase because you really want it or if you're just splurging because it's on sale.

38. Shop at grocery stores like Food 4 Less where you bag your own items. By not having to employ baggers, grocery stores are significantly lower.

39. Asian grocery stores sell their produce and meat at a fraction of the cost. I'm not sure exactly why, but it's just the pattern I've noticed. Unfortunately, sometimes the produce isn't very fresh. But I avoid the bad batch by shopping when the produce first gets stocked. Soy products and dairy targeted for lactose-intolerant people will also find great savings here.

40. Make a mental note or jot down how much basic essentials cost at one grocery store and compare the price with another. But keep in mind that a cheaper grocery store further away may not be a bargain when you calculate the cost of gas.

41. Search for bargains in the reduced or discounted carts. You can find some pretty good deals from time to time, and it doesn't occupy much of your time, either.

42. Try finding recipes from cultures that don't use too many ingredients in their recipes as a way to save money. Italians make simple, delicious meals without excessive ingredients. The Japanese traditionally have rice, natto, and a side of pickles. Koreans eat rice and kim chi.

43. Cook twice the amount of food you need and save the rest for another time. Freeze the leftovers.

44. Consume water with your meal. It'll make you fuller quicker, and, that way, you won't eat as much food.

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