Two years ago, my world fell apart, as my husband of nearly 30 years was diagnosed with end-stage heart failure. When COVID-19 hit, I was instantly taken back in time, to that moment of disbelief, emotional turmoil, and the recognition that life had been turned upside down and would forever be changed from that moment … Read moreFinding Balance in a Time of Crisis
Ever since the 2008 recession, I’ve heard rumblings of another economic downturn, coming soon. While experts pontificate on when and how it will happen, those of us who have lived a life of consistent frugality are preparing in a little different manner. If you are concerned or just want to throw up your hands in … Read more5 Reasons the Frugal Fare Well in a Recession
School’s out for a few weeks and your kids are ready for some fun! Today, let’s talk about how to keep them busy and enjoy some family togetherness without breaking the bank. Day #1: Bake Cookies. Nothing is better for bonding than cooking together. Decorate your baked creations with colored frosting after they cool. … Read moreWinter Break: 20 Days of FREE Family Fun!
I looked my husband in the eye and said, “Our children may not be raised with a lot of money, but they will be raised with a lot fo FUN!” This is especially true during the holidays. Over the years, we sought out free or nearly free opportunities for family holiday fun.
I love looking at elegant photos in magazines of the way that other people decorate their homes for the holidays. Although, I have to admit to myself that my abode has fallen short of Better Homes and Gardens status, I also believe that when it comes to decorating, there are a LOT of hacks for … Read more6 TIPS FOR CHRISTMAS DECORATING ON A BUDGET
I’ve been married for 31 years. That means I’ve had a good deal of experience in doing what our family calls, “praying in”. Raising children on a salary which was nearly always under the national US median, came with a fair share of times when we really didn’t have the money for anything extra. That’s when my kids would come to me and I would say, “Honey, we’re going to have to pay that in.”
As my oldest boys have become grown men, they have thanked their father and me, not for the money we spent on them, but for the time that we spent with them. I love spending time with my kids – seriously! They are amazing people with lots of interesting ideas. Time together has been a hallmark for our family … Read moreTEN Ways to Connect with Your Kids Without Spending Any Money