Tag Archives: Soul

Crockpot Mashed Potatoes

If you want an extra creamy version of mashed potatoes that is easy to fix, you might want to consider this recipe. Rich and hearty, this mashed potatoes recipe yields a dish that is decadent like a rich savory dish instead of fluffy. For a long time, this was the only mashed potato recipe I prepared during the holidays, because it was requested so often, and it was easily portable. Make sure to stir the edges of your pot at least once, to avoid browning. You can prepare these mashed potatoes in advance, but you’ll get best results when you … Continue reading →

Store Returns: What You Need to Know 4

Did you know that when it comes to electronics, different return rules often apply. This is something to be aware of when you are shopping for that holiday HDTV, digital camera, iPod, phone or video gaming device. In some cases, stores will not accept returns on any electronics at all, so make sure that you have a good understanding of store policy. Also, for something that is very expensive, you might want to get the return policy in writing in case it changes after your purchase or if the sales clerk has a faulty understanding of the policy. For stores … Continue reading →

Frugal Holiday Parties

The Holiday season will be here soon.Are you prepared for the expense of socializing? Here are some frugal tips to get your through it all with both the holiday fun and the budget in tact. I had a nice conversation with my mother-in-law last night. We started discussing what we were going to do about the upcoming holiday season and the Thanksgiving and Christmas get-together events. No one ever really wants to host either because of the work, and well, the expense. That is understandable, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Two words have gotten me through … Continue reading →

Salt Dough Ornaments

If your Christmas tree is looking a little bit bare, you can fill it quickly with some home made ornaments. Home made ornaments are generally very frugal, especially if you use inexpensive materials that you already have at home. Homemade ornaments, I think, are more precious than the store bought ones anyway. Every year, we add some home made ornaments to the Christmas tree, and it is always a delight when we take them out of their boxes and hang them on the tree each year. One wonderful way to make homemade ornaments is by crafting them from salt dough. … Continue reading →

More Tips on Staying Fit During the Holidays

A new survey out says the average American can expect to put on 10 pounds of weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. Basically, the research shows that most of us are weaklings when it comes to resisting the temptation to gorge on holiday goodies. What’s more, survey respondents also shared that they are simply too busy to hit the gym during the month of December, which further hinders the fitness process. So what can you do to avoid the seasonal slump? Take a look: Strength Training. Incorporate strength-training exercises into your workout to maximize calorie burning. Lunges, push-ups, and … Continue reading →

More Cool Places to Visit Santa

I took my preschooler to see Santa at the mall yesterday. It went about as well as our visit with the Easter Bunny. Needless to say our family Christmas card will not be featuring a smiling tot perched on Santa’s lap… again. It makes me wonder if I would have more success if we switched venues and caught up with the rotund red-suited gift giver at one of the following locales: NEW HAMPSHIRE Santa’s Village in Jefferson, New Hampshire is a must-visit destination if you are in New England during the holiday season. The outdoor theme park is a virtual … Continue reading →

Experiential Gifts Are Popular and Frugal

With everyone feeling the pinch of the economy, a new trend has been arising in holiday gift giving. They are called experimental gifts, and they don’t have to cost much at all. One thing that is true with the economy is that people are cutting back everywhere, especially on entertainment. As a result, gifts that have some sort of entertainment value, especially gifts that might be able to be used to get the recipient out and about are usually very welcome. Even kids will appreciate getting an experiential gift related to one of their interests. Here are some ideas for … Continue reading →

Frugal Gifts for Teens

Teenagers can be hard to purchase gifts for. They generally know more than you do about what is currently in, and most of the general gifts for teens fall into the electronics category which can get quite expensive. If you have a teen or two on your list, you might appreciate some good tips for getting them nice gifts while still staying on a budget. Here are some ideas. Snack Basket Teenagers are always hungry. Fill a basket or a box with yummy treats that they will be sure to appreciate. You can buy snacks in bulk and distribute them … Continue reading →

Tales from the Holiday Kids’ Table

With Thanksgiving just a week away many parents are finalizing their holiday menus, decorating the house, and working on the all-important Turkey Day seating chart. A good hostess knows it’s all about the seating. After all, who wants World War III to break out between eccentric Aunt Marcie and conservative Uncle Mort as the green bean casserole is being passed? And they’re adults (supposedly). So why is it that whenever the holidays roll around kids constantly beg to sit at the grown up’s table? And at what age do you honor their wishes? For as long as I can remember … Continue reading →

Practical Gifts for a Frugal Family Part 2

Are you looking for some practical gift ideas for someone who is frugal? We are continuing with our brainstorming. If you missed the first post in this topic, click here to catch up: Practical Gifts for a Frugal Family. And, now on to some more ideas… Freezer bags or containers Chances are that a frugal family is buying in bulk and freezing ingredients and meals. And chances are also good that they may be using the same freezer bags over and over again. Give them the gift of freezer bags and containers to help them keep on track. Since this … Continue reading →