While buying a used car can save you money, it is often a scary and stressful decision. When purchasing a pre-owned car, how can you be sure of the car’s history? How can you know that it has been well taken care of and it safe and worth your money? Here is some information that can help you when you are looking for a used car.

Start by narrowing your car options. Think about what you are looking for most in a car. Do you want two doors or four doors? Should the car be an automatic transmission or a manual transmission? If you need to park on the street frequently, consider looking for something that is fairly short in length. If you have a big family, then maybe you would need a SUV or minivan. Also, think about mileage and determine what is the most amount of miles you are willing to have on the car.

Go over your car budget. If you have a certain budget, you should keep hat in mind when you shop, especially if it is fairly low. A low budget will narrow your choices down. Also, make sure that you make room in your spending budget for other costs. Since the car you will be purchasing is going to be used, you may have to take it for a tune up. Since you are adding another car, your insurance premium may go up as well. Factor in these variables before settling on a set budget.

Research the type of car you want. There are many resources out there that can help you learn more about the car you are looking at and help you determine if you are getting a good price. The Kelley Blue Book is one of the main resources for determining what a car is worth. Simply visit the website and put in all the car’s information. You will get back a suggested price that the car is selling for, based on the condition of the car. The better the condition of the car, the higher the quoted price will be.

You can also visit Edmunds and MSN Autos online for more information about the make and model of the car. Edmunds gives reviews on the cars and can also suggest whether is typically a good car to buy used. If they say that the car is not a good buy, then they will also suggest alternatives that are similar. MSN Autos provides charts that show what types of problems certain makes of cars usually face and how much it costs to fix them.

Once you find a car, check it out in person. Bring someone with you as a second opinion. Inspect the car carefully and take it for a test drive.

Before purchasing anything, ask the seller if you can check the car’s history on Carfax. If they decline, this should send up a red flag. If they agree, ask for the Vehicle Identification Number. Plug it into Carfax and you will get a full history of the car.

Another thing to check on before exchanging any money is the title. Ask the seller of he or she has the physical title and make sure that they show it to you.  It should be in the seller’s name and no one else’s. Take the time to check the title because if you go to register the car under your name and find that there is a lien, you may end up losing the car you just paid for.

Also make sure that the title is not a salvage title. This is a type of title given to cars which at some point in its life, was deemed beyond salvageable by an insurance company. Sometimes this title can mean that the car was stolen and the vehicle itself is okay, but other times it means it was in an accident and damaged. Even if the car was fixed up and rebuilt, there may have been considerable damage to the structure that may have weakened the car making it less safe to drive.

Once you have checked out the car and its history, one last thing to do before making the exchange is to check your state’s car selling laws. Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles website to see if there is any specific paperwork that needs to be completed. Document everything that deals with the sale. Pay with a cashier’s check if you can and keep the stub as a receipt. Make sure that the seller fills out the top portion of the title before handing it over as well.

Whether you are purchasing a new home or just revamping an old one, new furnishing can cost you a lot of money. From new furniture for the bedroom to finding entertainment in teh living room, we all strive to find ways to save money. Here are some tips to furnishing your home for cheap.

The Bedroom

If you need a new bed frame, search yard sales and thrift stores for a used one. If you cannot find one that is the right size, consider looking for a universal bed frame. Universal bed frames are inexpensive compared to its sized counterparts and will fit any size bed mattress you end up buying. It works great if you want to use it for another room later on, but have a smaller or bigger mattress for that particular room.

Hit discount and overstock stores such as Marshalls and Ross for sheets. These stores typically have a great selection of sheets, bed sets and comforters and most are made by recognizable names. You can find quality material with brand names to back them, at discounted prices.

If you are looking to maximize storage space, use risers under your bed. They are affordable, and do no use up any more floor space than you already are with the bed. Use long plastic storage containers that fit under the bed to organize your things.

If you like to create an ambiance in your bedroom and love candles, you know that they do not come cheap. Instead of purchasing designer candle containers, you can make your own. Gather clear containers such as crystal bowls or small vases and fill the bottom with decorative touches like shells, beads or pebbles. Place cheap votive candles inside your homemade containers for a nice way to beautify your bedroom.

The Bathroom

In the bathroom, you will need all sorts of cleaners that keep your appliances sparkling and disinfected. Rather than spending tons of money on many different cleaners, just buy one. Mix while vinegar, baking soda and water for a great all-purpose cleaner. Use it to clean the toilets, bathtub and even the floors. since you are no buying a bunch of different bottles and containers, an added bonus is that your cleaners will not take up too much room in your cabinet.

If your family tends to go through hand soap really quickly, switch to a foam soap pump. Purchase regular soap and cut it down with water and put it in a foaming soap dispenser. Fill the bottle about 1/4 with soap and the rest with water. It cleans just as well as regular soap, and the foam is even quicker to rinse off your hands. This trick will stretch your soap refills a long way.

If you typically have to empty out those little bathroom trash cans often, switch to a bigger trash can. Sure it will take up a little more space, but not much. The circumference of the trash can itself is not much bigger. You will be able to use regular trash bags, and you will not have to empty them out as often. If the big trash can takes up too much room, you can simply hang a plastic bag from the bathroom door knob to throw trash into, completely freeing up the floor space.

The Living Room

If you need to refurnish your living room, look at garage sales and thrift stores for couches, love seats and arm chairs. You may be able to find some that are in decent shape for a great price. Also, some warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club sell furniture as well.

To decorate your living room, look for cheap picture frames. If you have some handiwork experience, you can easily make them yourself. Have everyone in the family help with the painting and decorating for a nice family activity.

Since the living room will most likely be the gathering point for your family, you will need entertainment. Stocking up on board games is a fun and inexpensive way to make sure that there is always something fun to do. Shop thrift stores and after-holiday toy sales for new games.

If you are a family that loves to watch television together but your cable bill is weighing you down, consider getting rid of cable and rent movies periodically. You can also sigh up for Redbox or Netflix and for a small monthly fee, stream movies and television to your TV.

The Kitchen

Instead of buying dish clothes, rip up old t-shirts. The cotton from an old shirt is absorbent and great for wiping wet dishes and cleaning up spills. Also, if you had a cloth diapered baby, old cotton diapers are perfect for cleaning in the kitchen too.

The same cleaner you used in the bathroom, the mix of vinegar, water and baking soda, works well in the kitchen too. Pour some into a spray bottle for homemade, all-purpose spray cleanser.

When purchasing food, shop sales and clip coupons when possible. Combine sale prices and coupons for the best deals. If you find that the store brand items are even cheaper than sale prices, purchase those instead.

Seven days a week, each and every day a new port o’ call.  With these great and rut-breaking international recipes, you can bring a little pizzazz into your kitchen and still manage to keep the food budget under control.  You may be surprised how inexpensive some of the best tasting culturally pleasing cuisine specialties can be.  It pays to be adventurous.  We all need a change of pace once in awhile.

Mexican

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas 1 15.5-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 small onion, chopped 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 6 ounces pepper Jack, shredded Salt and pepper 8 8-inch flour tortillas (or corn) Smash the black beans with a potato masher.  In a skillet, cook the defrosted corn with just a little water.  Drain and add to mashed black beans.  With oil, lightly fry the onion, chili and garlic until softened.  Cool and add. Chop up the cheese, mix well, then spread the bean and cheese mixture inside half the flour tortilla.  Fold in half and fry in oil, turning to the opposite side to be crunchy but not oily.  They may be kept in a warm oven until serving.  Cut each quesadilla in four triangles and serve. Cost per serving – $0.85

East Asian

Mini Egg Roll Packages 2 tablespoons plus 2 cups vegetable oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 2-inch piece fresh ginger, finely chopped (about 2 Tbsp.) 2 scallions, white parts only, thinly sliced 4 cups loosely packed packaged slaw mix (about 10 oz.)  2 cups bean sprouts (about 4 oz.) Salt and pepper 12 square egg roll wrappers, thawed if frozen Heat  the oil, add veggies and sauté till wilted and fragrant.  Add salt and pepper, then let cool.  Cut egg rolls in half, roll up lengthwise with 1 T. filling, seal with a pastry brush dipped in water.  Heat 2 cups of oil in skillet, let heat to 350 degrees F.  With tongs, place in hot oil, turning to cook evenly, about 5 minutes.  Drain on paper towels and serve.  Makes 24 pieces; a two piece serving costs $0.30.

India Curried Chicken 1/3 cup plain yogurt (regular) 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 teaspoons curry powder 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon lime juice 1 clove garlic, finely chopped Salt

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves This recipe can be marinated before hand or simply baked in a quick and easy way. Mix well the first six ingredients in a small bowl, using a wire whisk to blend evenly.  Turn on the oven to 375 degrees.  Arrange chicken breasts in a lightly oiled ovenproof dish, adding salt to taste.  Now pour the curry mixture onto the chicken and let it bake 15 minutes.  Rotate the chicken to cook evenly, then return to bake another 15 minutes.  Cool, then serve on a bed of rice or couscous with a cucumber and yogurt salad.  Cost per serving – $1,97

When it comes to making lunch for a little, check out these great meals for a dollar or less per serving.  They prove that you can be both frugal and satisfy your hunger cravings.   They do a double duty – help you make your goals, economically and nourish you physically, so that you can have your cake and eat it too.  Try one today.

Stew

Easy, One Pot Tex-Mex Stew

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef tips, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 (10 oz.) package frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed

1 (14.5 oz.) can Tex-Mex stewed tomatoes

1 (8 oz.) jar mild picante sauce

1 (10.5 oz.) can beef broth, undiluted

3 carrots, cut into ½-inch-thick pieces

1 onion, cut into thin wedges

2 garlic cloves, pressed

½ teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup water

¼ cup flour

Combine all ingredients into a slow – cooking pot and let it cook on medium for about two hours or until the meat is soft and tender.  To thicken the stew, make a roux of flour and lukewarm water, mix well, and cook an hour more.  Cost per serving – $.80

Salads

Vegetable Salad with Broccoli

Ingredients:

8 slices bacon

1 large bunch of  broccoli

1 small red onion, minced (1/2 cup)

1/3 cup white raisins

2 tablespoons honey

1/3 cup mayonnaise

3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

Salt

Freshly ground pepper

Fry bacon until crispy, drain on paper and crumble into cubes.  Clean and trim broccoli into tiny flower pieces and slices, toss in large salad bowl with raisins and minced red onion.  Combine the honey, mayonnaise, vinegar and seasonings  to make a wonderful tangy dressing, with a squirt of lemon if desired. Crumble the bacon on top and enjoy!  Cost per serving – $0.90

Chicken

Chicken Drumsticks with Lime and Chili

16 chicken drumsticks

Salt and pepper

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 clove garlic, chopped

1 teaspoon sugar

Prepare drumsticks for cooking and season with salt and pepper.

Combine the remaining ingredients, marinate and cook in a 400 degree oven, removing foil after 15 minutes and continuing until baked through, approximately 35 minutes.  Cool, then refrigerate and serve.  Cost per serving – $1.00

Pastas

Tuna Macaroni Salad

Salt and pepper

1 pound elbow macaroni or your pasta of choice

3 ribs of celery, chopped finely

1/2 cup finely diced red onion

1 carrot, grated

1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

1 12-oz. can tuna in water, drained well

2/3 cup mayonnaise  (regular or low fat)

1/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt

1-1/2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Cook macaroni according to the directions, drain and cool.  Combine the vegetables and tuna, mix well.  Then add the cooled macaroni.  In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients, mix well and serve.  Cost per serving – $.80

Dessert

Key Lime Pie

 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk

5 tablespoons bottled unsweetened Key lime juice

1 extra-large (9 in.) packaged graham cracker crust

Topping:

1 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350°F. In an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar at high speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs and beat until blended, about 1 minute. Add evaporated milk and lime juice, then mix at low speed until blended. Pour batter into crust and bake until set in center, 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool on rack for 20 minutes, then chill until cold, about 1 hour.

Beat cream, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract in an electric mixer, then serve cream on top of pie.  Cost per serving – $0.83

The most special person in our lives to most of us is our Mother. Husbands and wives, children and even fathers just don’t quite have the special bond that is there between a child and the special woman who gave birth to them, fed and nurtured them, nursed them back to health, gave a willing shoulder to cry on when sad, rejoiced with them when happiness soared, and stood by them when devastating events occurred in their own lives. Mom deserves a medal but in lieu of that why not take her out to lunch, dinner, or even make a special dinner for her yourself? Mother’s Day is a world wide holiday although it is celebrated on different days in various countries. The second Sunday in May is traditionally Mother’s Day in the U.S. and this was first established back in the late 1800′s. In 1910 West Virginia declared officially that there be a special day set aside for celebrating Mothers and on 1914 President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed a day to show honor for mothers who had sons that had died in war by flying flags in Mom’s honor. President Franklyn D. Roosevelt then approved a commemorative stamp in honor of Mother’s Day in 1934. First becoming officially a holiday in the United States, it soon went international.

Dinner Lunch Brunch or just a phone call or greeting card pleases Mom One of the busiest days for making telephone calls, and the most popular of all greeting card days is the celebration of Mother’s Day. Mom gets more flowers in her special day than any other day for any other purpose. Why do we each go to such great lengths to give to Mom on this day? Well perhaps because she has always given 100% of herself to us each and every day, never asking for more than our reciprocal love. Taking Mom out for a special brunch, lunch, or dinner is special Dainty little cakes tarts and salads to be shared by a child and their special parent, their Mother can be easily prepared with simple ingredients that will please and impress her while you chat quietly for a few precious and special moments, just mother and child. Try these low cost yet very easy to make suggestions:

Quiche Lorraine (sounds fancy but quite simple to make) 9″ pie crust (refrigerated type works well) 1 chopped medium onion 5-6 slices bacon 3 beaten eggs 1 ½ cups milk ¼ tsp salt 1 TBS flour (all-purpose) 1 ½ – 2 cups Swiss cheese (shredded) Preheat your oven to 400°F Double wrap the pie crust in foil and bake 8 minutes. Lower oven to 325°F then cook bacon in skillet until browned and crisp. Set aside the drippings then cook the chopped onion in same skillet. Drain and set onion aside. Mix eggs, milk, and salt in large bowl, stir in bacon & onions. Mix shredded cheese and flour in another bowl then add to egg mixture bowl. Mix well then pour into your pre-cooked pie crust. Bake 35-40 minutes. Check with blade of a knife and when it comes out clean remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into slices and serving. So quick and simple yet sounds and looks elegant for Mom on her special day!

Strawberries & Spinach Salad (Elegant and appealing, this quick Spring-time salad will appeal to every Mom!) 2 TBS toasted sesame seeds 1 TBS toasted poppy seeds ½ C. olive oil ½ C. white sugar ¼ tsp paprika ¼ C. white vinegar (distilled) ¼ tsp Worcestershire Sauce 1 TBS finely minced onion 10 ounce package fresh baby spinach leaves (thoroughly washed, then dried) 1 quart sized container fresh strawberries (cleaned and sliced) 1/3 C. blanched almonds (chopped into slivers) Whisk seeds, oil, paprika, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and onions and chill in the refrigerator one hour before mixing together spinach, almonds, and strawberries. Pour liquid dressing over salad, tossing lightly, then put back in fridge to chill another 10-15 minutes. Serve in chilled glass bowls.

Champagne Cocktail with a twist (before of after brunch pepper-upper) 1 ounce pear brandy 6 ounces sparkling white wine (Champagne) 1 TBS blackberry preserves (made with whole berry) Simply pour brandy into a fluted champagne glass, pour in champagne, then gently drop preserves into glass. Yummy, low calorie, low alcohol level, and actually healthy drink to celebrate Mom’s special Day!

Cheese & Tomato Strata (elegant affordable and easy entrée) 4-5 slices white bread (stale bread works fine) 2 thinly sliced tomatoes 1 C. Shredded mild cheddar cheese 2-3 scallions (or green onions) chopped 2 eggs Kosher salt (1/4 to ½ tsp) 2 C. whole milk Spread oil in 8″ square oven proof dish. Place half of the bread slices in bottom of dish, add on half of the cheese, tomatoes, and onions. Top with remaining bread and top with rest of cheese, tomatoes, and onions. In another bowl mix milk, eggs, and salt then pour over bread/tomato layers. Refrigerate at least two hours (can be prepped the night before). Heat oven to 350°F and bake 40-45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese over dish about 5 minutes before it is done for a truly inspiring appearance plus more calcium and richer flavor.

Happy Mother’s Day to each and every Mommy! If you can’t actually be with Mom on her special day, send her a gift card for her favorite restaurant and ask her to think of you when she eats there. But don’t forget the flowers and a phone call would also be nice! In addition, we’ve got 1-800 Flowers coupons to help you get started!

My grandmother came to live with us and became the babysitter, housekeeper, and cook which meant she influenced me greatly as I grew up. She was from the “depression generation” and life was a constant struggle to those who grew up in the 1930’s. So her methods and recipe ingredients tended to be on the “cheap” side although there was no scrimping when it came to flavor. She made nearly everything “from scratch” and kept most of her ancient recipes in her head. Around our house Christmas meant baking for days and days!

Here are a few of her old gems which I have updated with more convenient instructions and ingredients.

My mother herself was not especially involved in this because she was the “career minded” woman who preferred going to work in an office every day as opposed to being a housewife and cook meals for her family. So my Gram passed her vast knowledge on to me and I refined many of her original recipes, making them simpler, quicker, and most important of all, cheaper to make! She seldom wrote down items like time and temperature so I found out the hard way on many of these recipes. Today’s flour is more refined so we no longer need to sift unless it gets “clumpy”. It does help to sift several dry ingredients together for a more even mixture. Unless otherwise noted the flour used is just AP (all purpose).

Holidays were always special and ever thrifty

Home made cookies have so much more flavor and are, of course, fresher than store bought plus they are a whole lot cheaper!

Basic sugar cookies

1 C. Shortening (not cooking oil)

2 C. Sugar

6 TBS Milk

2 tsp Vanilla

3 Eggs, beaten

5 ½ C. Cake Flour

1 tsp Salt

3 tsp Baking Powder

Cream sugar and shortening together until smooth. Add milk and vanilla to beaten eggs. Sift dry ingredients together and add into liquid. Chill dough. Roll out small portions to ¼“ thick, returning remainder of dough to fridge until needed. Cut with cookie cutters such as Christmas Trees, Santas,Turkeys, or appropriate for the season. Bake at 375 or 15 minutes or until slightly browned on edges.

Ice Box Cookies

2 C. Brown Sugar

¾ C. Shortening (not cooking oil)

1 Egg (beaten)

¼ C. Milk

3 C. Flour

1 tsp Cream of Tarter

1 tsp baking soda

2 C. Pecans or Walnuts

Mix ingredients together, roll up and form into a roll about 3” in diameter.

Refrigerate overnight then cut about ¼“ thick, place on cookie pan, and bake at 375 for 12 to 15 minutes.

Drop Cookies

A basic cookie that’s very flexible with ingredients!

3 Eggs (beaten)

1 ½ C. Brown sugar

1 C. Shortening (not cooking oil)

2 tsp Cinnamon

1 tsp baking soda

3 C. Flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

Raisins and nuts to suit

Combine brown sugar and shortening and “cream” until smooth. Add beaten eggs. Mix flour with soda and gradually add to sugar/shortening. Add vanilla and stir. Add in any nuts or raisins, or both. Drop onto cookie pan and bake at 350 about 15 minutes.

Chocolate Cream Cookies (for the chocoholic in all of us!)

½ C. Butter (or margarine)

½ C. Shortening (not cooking oil)

1= 3 oz pkg Cream Cheese

1 ½ C. Sugar

2 Eggs (beaten)

2 TBS Milk

½ tsp Vanilla

2 = 1 oz squares unsweetened chocolate (melted)

2 ¼ C. Flour

½ tsp Baking soda

1 tsp Baking powder

½ tsp salt

½ C. Chopped walnuts or pecans

Cream shortening, sugar, cream cheese together, add eggs, milk, and vanilla. Stir in cooled chocolate. Sift flour and dry ingredients the add to chocolate batter and blend. Stir in nuts. Bake at 350 about 15 minutes.

Old fashioned oatmeal cookies (date filled)

1 C. Brown Sugar

1 C. Cold Butter

2 C. Flour

2 C. Oatmeal

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla

1 TBS water

Mix flour, salt & baking powder then add in butter. Add sugar, oatmeal, & vanilla. Mix baking soda into a TBS tap water and add.

Filling =

1 C. Dates

1 C. Sugar

¾ C. Water

Boil above until dates are soft. Fill cookies after they are baked.

Pumpkin Roll

Simple to make but elegant!

3 Eggs (beaten at high speed for 5 minutes)

1 C. Sugar (add to eggs gradually)

2/3 Cup Pumpkin (canned or fresh from your Jack ‘O Lantern)

1 TBS Lemon juice

Mix together =

¾ C. Flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

½ tsp salt

1 C. Walnuts

Then add to pumpkin/egg/sugar mixture above

Spread onto a 15” x 10” cookie sheet (sprayed with cooking spray), top with walnuts and bake at 375 for 15 minutes. Let cool slightly then turn out onto a cotton towel. Add filling and roll up then refrigerate. Slice and serve.

Filling =

8 oz softened cream cheese

4 TBS softened margarine

1 tsp vanilla

1 C. Powdered sugar

Beat ingredients until smooth then spread onto pumpkin “cake”, sprinkle on a few more nuts then roll up and refrigerate.

Festive Nut Bread (makes 2 loaves)

1 ¼ C. Dark or light brown sugar (dark makes a richer flavored bread)

2 Eggs

4 C. Flour

2 C. Buttermilk

2 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

1 C. Walnuts or Pecans

Beat eggs, add sugar and mix well. Add flour alternatively with buttermilk, stirring. Add salt and baking soda.

Bake 1 hour at 350.

Just for fun Rice Crispy Treats

These are super easy and a good starter recipe for kids!

¼ C. Margarine

1 10 oz package or about 40 regular size marshmallows (or 4 C. mini marshmallows)

6 C. Rice Crispy cereal

Melt marshmallows and stir in melted margarine then add in cereal. Press into 9” x 13” pan. Refrigerate until set then cut into squares.

Angel Food Cake Dessert

One more guilty pleasure!

1 large Angel Food Cake (store bought or home made) broken into pieces

1 pkg Strawberry Jello (large size)

½ C. Sugar (dissolved in 2 C. hot water)

When it starts to get “quivery” whip it

To this add one pint of whipping cream (whipped)

1 large can crushed pineapple

1 large jar maraschino cherries

15 large marshmallows

Layer the ingredients beginning with broken pieces of angel food cake

And finalizing with layer of jello – chill before serving.  Yummy!

Don’t forget the cooking supplies

Any supplies to these delicious recipes can be found through cooking.com. I always get my cooking supplies from there! Use any coupons available to get the best deals.

There are many items around your home that can be reuses instead of being thrown out. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces waste. Here are some household items that can be reused and ways that you can reuse them.

1. Bath water. If you enjoy taking a long soak, you are left with a lot of water that will go to waste once it goes down the drain. Instead, add some soap and use the water to mop your floors. You can also get a bucket and scoop out some water and use it to water you garden or lawn. If you prefer showers, place a bucket under the faucet while you wait for the water to warm up. Use this water to water your plants, hand wash your delicate clothes or rinse the dishes.
2. Plastic bottles. Plastic soda or water bottles can be turned into great art projects. Have your kids paint the outside and turn it into a money bank. These bottles can also be turned into boats or bird feeders.
3. Film canisters. These little gray canisters are great for storing little items. Use them in the garage to organize your screws, nuts and bolts. Use some in the bathroom to keep earrings and other jewelry pieces together. You can also cut a slit in the side and make a stamp roll dispenser.
4. Glass jars. Glass jars are useful for storing and freezing left overs. They can also be used to plant seeds or hold flowers.
5. Plastic containers. Containers such as those that hold yogurt, butter or sour cream are perfect for storing left overs. Since they are smaller, they are good for packing a single sized lunch.
6. Old t-shirts. Cut up old t-shirts and use them as rags. You can also use the material to make pillowcases, baby clothes or use a bunch of shirts to make a blanket.
7. Toilet paper rolls. These cardboard rolls can be used to organize extension cords. They can also be stuffed with paper soaked in alcohol and used to start fires.
8. Baby food jars. Use baby food jars to make votive candles. They are also good for sorting and storing seeds.
9. Milk jugs. Cut out a ¼ quadrant from old milk jugs and use them to hold clothespins.
10. Beer or soda bottle caps. Purchase some cheap magnets and glue them to bottle caps for custom refrigerator magnets.
11. Shoe boxes. Shoe boxes are great for storing items and organizing your closet. They can easily be labeled and stacked in your closet or under the bed.
12. Garden hose. If you have an old garden hose, use it to make a sprinkler. Make holes all the way along the hose and seal off one end. Attach the other end to the faucet for a makeshift lawn sprinkler.
13. Toothbrushes. Old toothbrushes are good for cleaning. Use them to scrub the grout in the bathtub or stains on the floor. You can also use them to clean hard to reach places like inside your rings.
14. Wine corks. Soak wine corks in alcohol to make a fire started. You can also collect a bunch and glue them together to make a cork board to hang on your wall.
15. Altoids tins. These little tins are great for making little first aid kids or sewing kits. Stock them with bandages and alcohols pads or a needle and some thread.
16. Paper. If you have a lot of scrap paper, you can reuse it as wrapping paper. Shred it to make packing material for shipping of gift packing. If the papers have one side that is still black, have your kids reuse it as drawing paper, or cut them up an make note pads out of them. Place all the pieces of paper together, lining up one edge perfectly. Use binder clips to hold them all together tightly and spread glue over the top. Allow the glue to dry before removing the clips.
17. Old jeans. Denim is a good material to use in the kitchen. Cut squares in your jeans and sew a few together to make your own potholders.
18. Shower curtain. Old shower curtains can be reused as drop cloths when you are painting the outside or inside of your home. You can also use it to cover your air conditioner, grill or other appliances when not in use.
19. Plastic bags. Reuse your plastic grocery bags to pick up pet waste. You can also reuse them the next time you go shopping.
20. Dryer lint:  Use it to pad small items you will send in the mail. You can also use it to stuff hand-made dolls.

Think outside the box! Send us your suggestions on re-using household items.

The good old (and very affordable) sandwich has been delegated to lunch time or even after school snacks but we know it has so many benefits that it just must be considered a part of every meal, any time of day or night. Try a breakfast sandwich of eggs plus sausage and a juicy slice of tomato for a healthy and delicious way to get your day started. Recipes can be simple or elaborate but what they all agree upon is they are a healthy meal that fulfills all those food group requirements while being a quick and easy way to get food into kids and adults as well.

Breakfast is often hectic and rushed so take it with you!

Many of us have too much to do first thing on a weekday morning to make elaborate breakfasts for the family. Plus most don’t have much appetite at 6 AM. Besides a bowl of cereal (hot or cold), a granola bar, or stopping off at the local fast food joint for their dollar breakfast selections, many choose to skip this meal and wait for the next. But breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day according to nutritionists and experts so getting something down, especially for the kids must be a priority. Try a quick and simple sandwich for an excellent start on a productive day.

Bacon, Egg, English Muffin, & Cheese

How simple is that? You can even cheat a bit with pre-cooked bacon or fry it the night before. Add a fried egg (scrambled work too) and place on a toasted English muffin. Melt in a slice of cheese and wrap it up in wax paper or foil. Make these up the night before and just warm them in the microwave the next morning. After heating them add a slice of tomato and maybe some lettuce and you have a healthy and substantial starter for anyone’s day.

Oatmeal & Cinnamon on a Bagel

Mix instant oatmeal with cinnamon (to taste) and fry it in a skillet using a small amount of carob or olive oil. You can spread the oatmeal out to make a thin layer filling a large skillet if you have several to feed. Watch it so it doesn’t burn, you just want it lightly browned. Flip over and continue to cook just until lightly browned on both sides. Add thin slices of cream cheese and cut into sizes to match the bagels (which you will toast) add a bit of mustard of you wish and wrap in wax paper or foil then send kids off with a good breakfast they can eat before they leave or on the way to school.

PB&J is upgraded to E for Excellent!

Nutritious and so popular with the kids, Peanut Butter and Jelly have always gone well together. Add some unique ingredients to spiff up the old standby and you have a gourmet meal (so the kids will think) when adding in bananas, marshmallows, raisins, potato chips, or even a slice of cheese. Serve them as is or melt butter in a skillet and brown the sandwich slightly on both sides to make them like a grilled cheese sandwich but more unique.

Lunch sandwiches can be light or substantial

Sandwiches can be served hot or cold, on toasted or fresh bread or buns. So versatile, the portable and ultra convenient sandwich is a mainstay for lunch (and any time of day). Try different ingredients or a combination of several.

Ham, Cheese, Mustard, & Bagel

A basic yet substantial meal can be found in simple ingredients like sliced ham or turkey. Just add on a slice of American, Cheddar or Swiss cheese and some lettuce plus thinly sliced tomato and you have a lunch made for Kings! Mayonnaise, mustard, perhaps some sandwich spread and you have a quick and very portable meal. Bagels are a healthy alternative to white bread or buns and make a surprisingly good sandwich!

Cartoon character Dagwood knew how to make a sandwich!

Take a sub or hoagie bun and load it up with multiple ingredients stacked up high and you have yourself a Dagwood! Named after the cartoon character from the Blondie comic strips seen in Sunday papers, the ingredients are only limited by one’s imagination. Try several types of meat such as ham, turkey, salami, bologna, roast beef, or a combination of several or all the above! Next add some type of sliced cheese such as cheddar, Swiss, American, or Provolone. Lettuce, tomato, roasted bell peppers, red onions, and some mayonnaise or mustard complete a gourmet quality sandwich that is now found at a fast food chain with the same name. Fresh bread is the key to making this sandwich special and especially delicious! Dagwood thought these solved his insomnia but for many eating a huge sandwich like that late at night would only keep them up with indigestion!

Roast Beef with or without Au Jus

One of the most popular sandwiches found anywhere is the French Dip but they can get messy when you dip into the Au Jus (with juice) which is beef broth the meat has been cooked in. Mostly this simple sandwich consists of only meat and a baguette or French roll. But the flavoring in the meat is what makes it extra special and that can be done at home in a slow cooker or oven safe casserole dish with a beef roast such as sirloin or top round. Add in a can of beef broth, some diced onions, paprika, pepper, salt, and perhaps a bit of cayenne pepper (go light on it). Cook the meat for 6-8 hours on low and test for tenderness by trying to pull apart with a fork. When tender remove meat and let it sit ½ hour before slicing as thin as possible (meat slicer would be helpful). Continue cooking the au jus remaining in the slow cooker or pot or you can finish it on the stove top with low heat. The au jus should be dark and rich then save it or serve now by dipping the bun in before adding meat or just dipping the sandwich into the delicious au jus!

Horseshoe sandwich is exciting alternative to the cheeseburger!

Many of us fry hamburger patties and add them to hamburger buns, making the most popular sandwich in the U.S. Spruce it up a bit by adding the following:

Toasted bread or Texas Toast goes first followed by two well cooked ground chuck patties. Add on a handful of cooked French fries and top with a melted cheese “sauce” made from melting cheddar with a tiny amount of butter, salt, and pepper. Drizzle cheese over fries and serve open faced. Adding other ingredients only makes this a “happy” meal for all! Try adding over easy eggs, mustard, thinly sliced tomato, Romaine lettuce, black olives, red onions, and maybe more cheese! The meat in this can be either ground chuck, fried or grilled chicken breast, fried fish filets, fried pork tenderloin, or breakfast sausage. Yummy!

Hamdog for those who can’t decide between a burger and a Coney

Just like the name implies this sandwich consists of a hamburger patty wrapped around a wiener! A distinctly American concoction, kids of all ages love it! First showing up at the Indiana State Fair in 2006, the hamdog is simple and simply delicious! Takes a cooked to medium ground chuck patty that is then wrapped around a good quality wiener, then adding on chili and a handful of French fries. Adding a bun is optional but less messy. Some even add in a fried egg. Not exactly the healthiest of sandwiches, it has become extremely popular when you can find them. So make some at home for a frugal meal that everyone will love!

Ins and Outs

Tax time is here, and by now, taxpayers should know how much money they made in 2011.  Whether it is income from a primary job, a side or seasonal job, a small home-owned business, passive or interest income, all incoming monies exceeding $10 needs to be accounted for. 

Regarding expenses, the ideal situation is keeping a “pay as you go” Excel spreadsheet showing medical, professional and other qualified expenses incurred throughout the year.

Standard Deductions

Standard deductions this year are $5,800 (Single) and $11,600 (Married Filing Joint) but the object of the game is to pay as little taxes as possible within legal guidelines.

To Itemize or not to itemize, that is the question?  Without doing the math, it will be hard to know.  When it comes to taking deductions taxpayers need credit card statements and receipts in case of an audit.  Large ticket items like computers and equipment are especially susceptible.

A List of Possible Deductions

• Mortgage interest
• Real estate taxes
• Health care premiums if you’re self employed
• Medical expenses over 7.5% AGI
• Unreimbursed work expenses
• Charitable contributions

Tax Software

If you’re going it alone, consider using traditional tax software packages in order to get the job done, like Turbo Tax.  These step-by-step tutorials help you manage your tax return for a minimum of stress.  For those who might have a self-employment or other multi-tiered levels of income, it might be a better option in the long run to go out and find a qualified tax professional with a great recommendation.  These experts can save you more money than you might be able to if you do the tax return yourself, especially if you factor in the cost of tax software.

Time Extensions

If you still need more time, better to file a 3-month extension than do a poor job.  It’s worth your while to get the best return that you’re entitled to, so take your time and do it right.

Minimize your Tax / Maximizing your refund

In one sense, the best case scenario is to owe as little as possible or break even.  With the time value of money, the money in your hand when you need it on a month by month basis is a better deal than paying too much and getting a lump sum later when its value is probably less.

Changes that took place in 2011

As far as tax deductions are concerned, a person needs to think-think-think about how it affects them.  For example, did marital status change – did you get married, separate, become widowed?  Child care expenses may apply.  Did your teenager begin attending college?  These factors affect the picture you provide the I.R.S. of your taxable income and deductions.

Retirement

Saving for retirement is a dollar for dollar tax deductible expense under the Savers Credit program, with contribution limitations of $1000 (S) or $2000 (MFJ).

Homeowners’ Advantage

Having a home means mortgage interest deduction.  This is not usually a significant amount of money, but it does help if you are itemizing your deductions.  The first time homeowner deduction no longer automatically applies after 2010, although military personnel may take the deduction.

Homeowners that have a small business on the side – doing tax returns, writing freelance or their own blog – can deduct a portion of their home as a home office expense.  Home office related expenses are recorded on the Schedule C, thus lowering adjustable gross income (A.G.I.) and ultimately lowering tax expense.

Employment Related Deductions

If you are looking for a new job, even if you are currently employed, some expenses are deductible, whether or not you receive employment.  Non-reimbursable agency fees are deductible.  Printing, travel and network expenses are also deductible as long as you are not changing positions and/or have been unemployed for a long period of time.  First time job applicants are ineligible; this deduction applies to working professionals experiencing a gap between jobs.

Moving Expenses

Your moving expenses are deductible if the distance between your new place of employment is more than 50 miles beyond your previous commute.  If you moved to assume a new job, or the old job moved to a new location, you qualify under a time and distance requirement.  The job must be a full time job of 39 hours a week over the course of a year, and the commute must have increased by 50 miles.

After years of extravagant living on something like a $40,000 per year income we have found ourselves needing to economize due to becoming part of the “fixed” income set. So with our annual pay cut in half we now learn how to spend less on nearly everything!

Clothing was an easy target for spending less because we already had some. We did buy a newer vehicle and considered that a good investment because the one we replaced was on its last legs and that gets expensive! So we now have a car payment. We have a house full of furniture so that’s no problem. We could not afford our house payments any longer but we did qualify for a reverse mortgage so did that and eliminated the monthly mortgage payment. But that just means we cannot simply sell our home all that easily.

The one thing that is a constant, an expense that will be with us forever unless we die and don’t eat any longer is food. This is one part of the monthly budget we had never worried about because we ate out often and bought easy to prepare items that, while expensive, were easier and generally left no leftovers to deal with.

Enter the economy phase of our lives (or how to eat for a whole lot less)

When I lost my job and my husband became ill (with Parkinson’s) we learned how difficult it can be to plan our monthly expenses based only on government checks. Now my hubby is on disability and once my unemployment ran out I began drawing social security. At least I was old enough for that… one benefit of age I guess. Finding a need to become frugal at the grocery store was easier than I would have imagined because we are not alone. Millions are also feeling the pinch of less income and grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, and Aldi’s are there to help! Look for the price matches from Walmart, the ten for $10 items and coupon doubling at Kroger, and lots of cheap produce at Aldi’s and stock up if you can. Coupons are a great help if they apply to items you’ll actually use.

Recipes and how to make them work on pennies instead of dollars

Ground Chuck is an acceptable substitute for Roast Beef in casseroles. Chicken is an even more affordable substitute. Canned tuna makes many healthy and tasty dishes. Store brand bulk cheese (grate it yourself) is far cheaper than already shredded in the bag brand name cheese. Day old bread at the outlet stores is just as good as the $3 loaves on store shelves. These are lessons I have learned to accept and appreciate. Also stay away from the grocery store until you absolutely must shop, then make a list and stick to it!

1)     Buy whole fryers when they’re on sale to roast in the oven or slow cooker, adding the savory ingredients (mirepoix) also known as the “holy trinity” which is carrots, celery, and onions will give lots of flavor to the broth you’ll be making. Add a tablespoon each of cumin, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder and stir into the liquid. Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours then pull chicken from bones, saving the carcass for broth or soup.

2)     Buy chicken breast (boneless & skinless) in 3-5 pound bags when on sale for around $1.33 per pound. Make chicken enchiladas, soups, fajitas, chicken strips to deep fry, and cheesy chicken roll-ups (flatten out chicken breast, wrap around Swiss cheese, roll in crushed cheesy crackers (Cheez-its) mixed with taco seasoning powder, then bake for 45 minutes at 350, sprinkle shredded cheese over just before removing from oven…. Super easy and yummy!

3)     Buy ground chuck when it’s on sale in the 10 pound chubs. Separate into 1 or 2 pound portions and put in freezer bags, freeze until needed. Make spaghetti with meat sauce or meat balls, hamburger steaks, Salisbury steaks, meat loaf. Make individual meat loaves (1½ # chuck, 1 egg, ½ cup cracker or bread crumbs, 1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce) then form into 4”x2” oval shaped loaves, wrap with a slice of bacon and bake for 1 hour at 350.

4)     Buy canned tuna when it’s on sale maybe at 2/$1, then stock up. Add hard boiled eggs, a bit of mustard and mayonnaise, diced onion, diced pimento, and dill pickle relish. Serve as a sandwich or eat with crackers. Tuna also makes a great casserole when added to frozen peas and a white sauce (2 cups milk, 8 Tbs. flour, 8 Tbs. melted butter). Melt butter (or margarine) in pot then alternatively add flour and milk, stirring with a whisk to make a thin sauce which will thicken. Add peas, tuna, and noodles. You can bake it or just serve when it’s all together.

5)     Potatoes are the “unsung” hero of the kitchen! They can be used in many ways such as baked, fried, deep fried (fries), mashed, boiled then sliced for potato salad. They can be a side dish or even an entrée. Bake large russet potatoes (wiped with olive oil) for 1½ hours, open up by squeezing ends, add any or all of the following: chili, diced onions, diced green chilies, diced tomatoes, butter, salt & pepper. Combine that ground chuck with mashed potatoes and call it a Shepherd’s Pie when also adding peas and carrots in a casserole. Top with grated cheddar and bake 35-45 minutes at 350.

6)     Super easy macaroni and cheese requires just a few ingredients like 1# elbow macaroni (can sub with shells, penne, or rigatoni) cooked about 2 minutes less than pasta instructions call for, 2# shredded cheddar cheese, 4 oz. sour cream, 1 Tbs. yellow or Dijon mustard, 1 Tbs. finely diced onions or dried diced onions. You can also use the white sauce recipe above then add cheese and macaroni to it.

7)     That chicken broth we made earlier is fantastic for soups and to add into many recipes that call for more liquid. It tastes so much better than plain tap water. Strain it from cooked chicken by placing inexpensive coffee filters in a colander or strainer and let it drain into a plastic container, then freeze until needed. Taste and add salt & pepper as needed as you use it.

8)     Grilled cheese sandwiches aren’t just for kids! Buy bread at the local discount bakery outlet. Try some sourdough or 15 grain for extra flavor and firm texture. Melt 4 oz. (½ stick) or more of butter to slather over bread slices, fry in medium hot skillet until first side is golden brown the flip over. Add two slices of your choice in cheese (try Swiss, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Jalapeño Jack, or American), then top with toasted side of another slice. Flatten somewhat and heat until cheese is melty, flip once so both sides are crispy and golden. You can also add tuna, tomato, crispy bacon, lettuce, sliced cucumber, onion, or whatever suits your diner’s palate but add fillings before closing up or cheese will never let you in again!

9)     Buy that roast beef when it’s on sale and make several meals out of one. Buy a 5-6 pound chuck roast and cook using a slow cooker or in the oven for several hours. Have a nice Sunday dinner from the roast and save the rest to make open faced beef and gravy sandwiches, shredded beef enchiladas or tacos, barbeque beef sandwiches, and lots of other variations. You can stretch that $25 to $30 roast into five or more meals and that’s pretty affordable eating.

The idea here is to stretch that food dollar as much as possible. There are few things we can really save money on today and the grocery bill is one of them. Look for sales and stock up on things that won’t spoil or that you can freeze. Clip coupons but only for items you will use. Bring along your grocery ads and ask for a price match. Make meals that can become leftovers for later in the week. I used to hate leftovers that took up space in my fridge but now find them comforting because we have something to eat on Wednesday that was cooked on Sunday.