Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Frugal Tip ->Tax Refund
If you will be receiving a refund from both your federal and state income taxes, plan now on what things are first priority like household/car repairs, paying down high interest credit cards, purchasing new appliance, or medical expenses. Try to be frugal and put one of those refund checks into your savings account or start one.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Short Exercising Just as Good
Given all that we have on our to-do lists everyday including an 8-hour workday, it's no wonder that many of us can't see an exercise regimen also on that list. Don't fret if all you can muster up in time for exercising is 15-20 minutes, that's just as good as nothing at all. Remember to work on your arms, abs, glutes, and legs doing 10 reps on each exercise. Also, if you've been running errands, walking around stores or took the stairs at work instead of the elevator, that's exercise too.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Today's Recycle Tip
If you have lots of plastic bags from your shopping, make plans on your next trip to return some of them back to the store. I know many grocery and other stores have recycle bins inside the entryways to encourage shoppers to bring these plastic bags back for recycling. I like this idea to help reduce, reuse, and recycle!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Smiling Saturday :-)
Today, I am heading to a birthday party for my friends grandson. He's celebrating his 1st birthday and the beginning of many more. I know the party will be loads of fun with lots of kids. I can't wait to see the birthday cake and better yet when he blows out the candles with help from his kiddie friends. I couldn't think of a birthday gift for a one year old, I know he has plenty of toys and clothes. I ended up finding the cutest bath mitt in the shape of a frog that's neon lime green. I think it will make for fun baths when you place the mitt on your hand at bath time. I'm betting on lots of splash in the tub with excitement. A child's birthday party is a joy that will make this a Smiling Saturday indeed!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Get Ready for Sandals
Get your feet ready to rock the many styles of sandals this spring and summer. Here's how-> Apply vaseline/petroleum jelly to your feet especially the heel area and wear a pair of socks at nighttime. This will help to soften your feet and keep them from looking rough and flaky. Also, check out some great products at Carol's Daughter where you will find a nice line of beauty not only for your feet, but much more.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
3 Quick & Healthy Snacks
As someone who likes to eat healthy, I do have a weakness for potato chips. You too, I don't feel so bad now :-) Overall, I do try to eat healthy snacks and wanted to share 3 of my favorites:
--->Top saltine crackers with peanut butter & jelly
--->Spread mustard on one slice of bread, cut into quarters, and top with slice of cucumber (add some pepper for seasoning if you want)
--->Cut up your fave fruit or a few carrot sticks and spread slices with cream cheese or hummus, Yum!
--->Top saltine crackers with peanut butter & jelly
--->Spread mustard on one slice of bread, cut into quarters, and top with slice of cucumber (add some pepper for seasoning if you want)
--->Cut up your fave fruit or a few carrot sticks and spread slices with cream cheese or hummus, Yum!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Monday, March 21, 2011
Healthy Jolt of Vitamin C
We've all read and heard that it's so important to get Vitamin C into our healthy living especially in the wintertime to fight colds and flu. Now that spring has sprung, it's still just as important to continue getting Vitamin C in the springtime too. I love all those lovely blooms of spring, but not the pollen season that comes with it. Be ready by getting an extra punch of Vitamin C each day with oranges. Grab several at the grocery or market and cut them into quarters. Pack an orange in your lunch and keep a small bowl of them in the refrigerator for easy grab and go snack. Stay Refreshed & Healthy!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Spring is Here
Spring officially begins today and I'm in a springtime mood. The temps aren't quite so springlike in Atlanta like yesterday, it's a bit cloudy. The skies are brightening and I think the sun will try it's best to peek out. I saw the Supermoon last night and it was just that...Super! I stood outside for awhile watching and then kept peering through the blinds. I hope many of you got the chance to see this incredible sight since it won't happen again until 2016. I am really into the NCAA Tournament and plan to watch some games this afternoon. Here's a tidbit about Me ->I played high school basketball, but wasn't a starter. I pretty much came off the bench especially when we were ahead. My real game was volleyball where I lettered and had an awesome serve :-)
Back to spring, I am ready to plant my fave flowers: petunias and begonias. I spent time yesterday getting my containers ready. Well, enjoy your Sunday and the start of the spring season.
Back to spring, I am ready to plant my fave flowers: petunias and begonias. I spent time yesterday getting my containers ready. Well, enjoy your Sunday and the start of the spring season.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Fun & Frugal Weekend
Enjoy these 3 frugal things to do for the weekend:
1. Picnic in the park: Pack a lunch or early evening dinner and enjoy the sights and sounds in your local park. Don't forget the blanket!
2. Thrifty Shopping: Stop by your local consignment and thrift stores to browse and check out what's on the racks. It's nice to patronize the community merchants and skip the big box malls.
3. Family Time: Gather the kids and head outside to wash the car/van, rake the yard and pull weeds, or organize the garage.
1. Picnic in the park: Pack a lunch or early evening dinner and enjoy the sights and sounds in your local park. Don't forget the blanket!
2. Thrifty Shopping: Stop by your local consignment and thrift stores to browse and check out what's on the racks. It's nice to patronize the community merchants and skip the big box malls.
3. Family Time: Gather the kids and head outside to wash the car/van, rake the yard and pull weeds, or organize the garage.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Handy Household Tip
Give those worn t-shirts and towels a second life. Use them in place of paper towels when you can to cut down on the cost of buying paper products which has become so expensive. The old rags come in handy for cleaning around the house, wiping inside the car, small spills, and more. Just keep them separate when laundering and store them on the laundry room shelf or bin for easy access. It's pretty eco-friendly too.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Exercising with Fido
I read stories around the internet the last few weeks about pets being overweight. Our dogs and cats can surely pack on the pounds if we are not careful with their eating and exercise. The winter months are usually the time when us humans gain weight due to the colder weather and the inability to get outside for our usual walking/running routines. Now that the weather is starting to warm up in certain areas, we all can start back walking more along with the family pet. As a former dog owner, I remember the rainy days and not being able to take walks with my cocker spaniel (I sure miss him). I know many of you probably get socked in with snow during the winter and this really can damper getting outside for several days. If the weather is starting to shape up, grab the leash and head out with Fido for some much-needed exercise. Better yet, head to a dog park and take along their favorite ball or frisbee to throw and retrieve. All that running will be great exercise for both of you. Also, remember to have plenty of water on hand to replenish you and your furry friend. Go Get the Ball!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Fitness Tip ->Arms & Shoulders
There's no time like the present to start getting your upper body into shape as spring is settling in and let's not forget summer, but that's still months away. Which brings me to my fitness tip:
Start using 3-5 lb. free weights to shape up your arms by doing 10-15 reps of arm raises, kick backs, and bicep curls. Plus, do 2-3 sets of push ups which targets the shoulders for a shapely look. You will be ready to rock tanks and sleeveless attire in no time flat! As the military trainers say to the recruits "drop and give me 20." That's push ups!
Start using 3-5 lb. free weights to shape up your arms by doing 10-15 reps of arm raises, kick backs, and bicep curls. Plus, do 2-3 sets of push ups which targets the shoulders for a shapely look. You will be ready to rock tanks and sleeveless attire in no time flat! As the military trainers say to the recruits "drop and give me 20." That's push ups!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Spring Forward->Eco-Friendly
The time change of springing forward ahead an hour will help conserve energy and protect the environment. Since the evenings will stay lighter longer, we all can save energy by not having to turn on the lights inside and outside the house for a few extra hours. So Eco-Friendly!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Weekend of Sunshine
There will be plenty of sunshine this weekend in Atlanta. I started the day off by opening the window blinds to let lots of sun inside. After several days of chilly weather, it's nice to have the spring temperatures back. I placed my ferns back outside to let them soak up all this sunshine too. I'm so excited that my petunia plant has pink blooms on it, very pretty.
This weekend, don't forget to set your clocks forward at 2AM for daylight savings time. It's going to be nice tomorrow evening to have the extra daylight for walking exercise and not feel so rushed to beat the darkness. I'm sure you agree :-) One of my buddies is having a garage sale today. I should have been there at the start, but I'm sure there will be some frugal finds left to scour over.
The winter weather may be hanging around in your area, but don't let that damper getting outside anyway for weekend fun. Go out and soak up the sun!
This weekend, don't forget to set your clocks forward at 2AM for daylight savings time. It's going to be nice tomorrow evening to have the extra daylight for walking exercise and not feel so rushed to beat the darkness. I'm sure you agree :-) One of my buddies is having a garage sale today. I should have been there at the start, but I'm sure there will be some frugal finds left to scour over.
The winter weather may be hanging around in your area, but don't let that damper getting outside anyway for weekend fun. Go out and soak up the sun!
Friday, March 11, 2011
TGIFriday
And it's a busy one, but getting lots done as I now wonder how the morning went by so fast. I'm about to take a break and shift gears for a bit. I read a story on CNN today that drinking coffee may lower a woman's risk of stroke. I found this to be great news not only for the fact that I love coffee, but a healthy one. I know coffee should be consumed in moderation and I don't usually drink it in the afternoon unless a friend wants to meet and chat. Now that would be A-OK! Have a great day everyone.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Thursday Tidbit
If you are selling your home and planning a weekend open house, shine the wood furnishings with a polish that has a lemony scent just before it begins. The lemon aroma will be so refreshing as people enter the home. Who knows, you might just get a contract to buy your digs.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Rainy Day Fund
It's going to be a rainy day in Georgia and that got me thinking...have you got a rainy day fund going yet? If so, great. If not, start one soon. I can't stress enough how important this fund can be for unexpected expenses that come up. Start socking away $10 or more every week and only access this fund for emergencies. Don't use it to buy those cute shoes or video game. Get ready to watch your savings grow!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
International Women's Day
It's International Women's Day with a day of celebrations around the world in honor of the many accomplishments and strides over the years. The roles of women have expanded with many becoming Secretary of State, entreprenuers, astronauts, CEO's, and more. Don't let me forget running for President of the United States. We are trailblazers!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Budget Tip->Loaves of Bread
Store loaves of bread in the freezer and take out only enough pieces for a few days to help keep it fresh. Simply take the loaf out of the freezer to defrost when you need more pieces. Also, if there is a discount bread store in your area, stop in and buy "day old bread." I find 2 for $1 loaves of name brands of bread at the store in my community. Believe me, you can't get that deal in major grocery store chains. I think this tip is especially useful for singles where a loaf of bread takes awhile to eat. Plus, families can't afford to let bread get moldy either. We have to find ways to stretch our dollars as food prices continue to climb.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Good Sunday Afternoon
I hope everyone is enjoying a nice weekend and a good Sunday afternoon. It was a rainy day yesterday, but today the sun is expected to come out. Of course, I'm waiting on it. I know one thing, the temps have dropped from all the springlike days and my heat is kicking back on, Oh Joy! I can't wait to keep the windows open and give the heating bill the boot :-) My post today wasn't going to be focused on any particular topic, just simply hello and wishes for plenty of that Sunday stuff I like so much and bet you do too ->Rest & Relaxation!
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Send an E-Card Today
Just thought of a neat thing for today ->Do you have a family member, BFF, significant other, or neighbor who is feeling a bit blue these days or going through a tough time? How about sending them an e-card to lift their spirits? Check out 123greetings.com for some nice e-cards or any website of your choice. Choose a category and add an uplifting message if you like, then hit the send button. Let someone know you are thinking of them today!
Friday, March 4, 2011
Colorful Kitchen Idea
I got this blog post inspiration after watching the Rachel Ray Show today. For starters, I really like the set design on her show. Not only is the refrigerator vintage powder blue, but there are lots of colorful items on the counter top and shelving in the kitchen area. Here's my colorful idea:
If you have plates, bowls, or any other items in bright colors and designs that are kept inside the kitchen cabinets, bring them out in the open and stack on the counter top, baker's rack, or table. Let them add pops of delightful color around the kitchen.
If you have plates, bowls, or any other items in bright colors and designs that are kept inside the kitchen cabinets, bring them out in the open and stack on the counter top, baker's rack, or table. Let them add pops of delightful color around the kitchen.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Grocery Tip
Have the price of tomatoes at the grocery store got you scaling back? Pick up cans of diced tomatoes instead. Use them on your salads and add them in cooking recipes. Look out for buy-one-get-one-free deals at the grocery store and stock up. Happy Savings!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Gas Prices, Yikes!
These gas prices are out of sight and I'm sure the high prices are hitting wallets and budgets pretty hard. I noticed over the past weekend that many of my neighbors were home which may not be any coincidence with the high gas prices, but I imagine that's one reason. We all have to drive to jobs, school, errands, and sporting practices as we move along in our lives. Here are some frugal ways to help save money on gas now:
--->Check with co-workers for carpooling, see who lives nearby
--->Use public transportation if it's convenient in your area
--->Coordinate errands to avoid driving too far out of the way
--->Fill the gas tank up or halfway when you spot a good price
Hang in there and hopefully the gas prices will start to go down soon. In the meantime, brown bag lunch even more :-)
--->Check with co-workers for carpooling, see who lives nearby
--->Use public transportation if it's convenient in your area
--->Coordinate errands to avoid driving too far out of the way
--->Fill the gas tank up or halfway when you spot a good price
Hang in there and hopefully the gas prices will start to go down soon. In the meantime, brown bag lunch even more :-)
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
All Things Springy!
Hello to the 1st of March and I'm feeling springy. The sky is full of sunshine which sure helps get this day off to the best start ever. Of course, the usual bills have to be paid and they were waving from their kept spot saying "time to pay us." I'm just kidding, but it's a task we all will be doing in the coming days.
There were some unseasonable temperatures in Atlanta last month and truly got many of us thinking springtime. Now that March is here, I look forward to stepping up my walking exercise in the neighborhood. I think a new pair of sneaks might be in order so I will need to check for sales. I bet some of you are excited about playing in the dirt again with gardening. It won't be long before those beautiful ceramic and clay pots can be filled with flowering blooms. Oh, don't let me forget about grilling out on the patio. It still might be a bit cool, but soon the grill cover can come off and the sizzle and aroma of chicken, burgers, and veggies will be what's up for dinner.
Here's to the beginning of a new month and all things springy!
There were some unseasonable temperatures in Atlanta last month and truly got many of us thinking springtime. Now that March is here, I look forward to stepping up my walking exercise in the neighborhood. I think a new pair of sneaks might be in order so I will need to check for sales. I bet some of you are excited about playing in the dirt again with gardening. It won't be long before those beautiful ceramic and clay pots can be filled with flowering blooms. Oh, don't let me forget about grilling out on the patio. It still might be a bit cool, but soon the grill cover can come off and the sizzle and aroma of chicken, burgers, and veggies will be what's up for dinner.
Here's to the beginning of a new month and all things springy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)