I was inspired to live a financially streamlined lifestyle by the Tightwad Gazette newsletters in the early 90’s. That time frame was the beginning of my life as a single parent, and even though I considered myself a frugal person, I was always on the lookout for additional help in adjusting to my reduced circumstances. […]
I Brake for Garage Sales!
The second Saturday in August is National Garage Sale Day. This year, August 10th is the official holiday of garage sale “aficionados” across the country. Being one myself, I find this to be a holiday I can really sink my teeth into, as well as my pocketbook. A garage sale is the closest thing there […]
Are You Guilty of Financial Infidelity?
I don’t know too many couples who haven’t experienced infidelity. And no, I’m not talking about sexual infidelity. I’m referring to financial infidelity; which isn’t cheating on your spouse with another person, but cheating with money. Some people believe so strongly in the principle of financial integrity that in a recent Harris Interactive survey commissioned […]
Protect Your Assets: Make a Will!
A prominent member of our community was killed in a car accident last month and it made me realize, yet again, how fragile and random life can be. I haven’t made a will since my children were small, and I’ve been thinking that it is way past time to make a new one, since much […]
To use or not to use: the organic dilemma
There is a higher cost associated with organic food purchases, and many people question whether the health benefits outweigh the additional expense. Organic foods are produced by farming practices that are monitored and controlled to decrease risk of food contamination and improve food quality. Three practices, called the ‘Big Three’ (genetic engineering, irradiation, and sewage […]
Spring is Busting Out all Over
It’s April, which for a lot of us across the United States means tornado season. Because spring is a transitional period for climate, there are more chances of cooler air meeting with warmer air, resulting in more thunderstorms and tornadoes. None of us wants to speculate we may be the victim of a severe weather […]