I have heard and read so many different ways to save money or cut costs in this tough economic conditions; however, many of these steps require “sacrifices!”

If you don’t have a choice then you need to do what you have to do to survive; but cutting costs to save extra $20 a month is a nonsense … personally speaking.

If you can cut living costs by hundreds of dollars then you should go on ahead and make proper steps to reach your goals, but I personally feel that you can cut costs without feeling of “sacrifice” or “deprived.”

I have done my steps to cut my family’s unnecessary or wasteful costs, and in turn managed to cut our spending by 60-75%.

With that said … I have not felt like I was sacrificing my life or my family’s life to pay our bills and save money.

Before I continue I need to share with you that my husband and I feel that working hard should come with benefits.  Always crunching numbers or depriving ourselves of little luxuries in our lives isn’t worth it.  For instance, you work 40 plus hours a week (working your tails off), but there isn’t any incentive for your effort … Don’t you soon feel like your life is out of your control and develop resentments?

We sure felt that way, and that is one of the reasons why I started couponing and became a wiser consumer.

It really is amazing how little luxuries in your life can change your  perspective in life and work.

Easy steps to cut costs:

1.  STOP eating out!  It is amazing how much you wind up spending, at the end of the month, just picking up food or getting your food delivered.  If you eat outside food 50% of the time, in a month period, and spend $20 (you know it’s much more, but for the sake of numbers we will stick with an even number), you wind up spending $300 a month.

With my kids having extra curriculum activities, and always around dinner time, I had difficult time trying to get dinner on the table; so my family would eat out (or eat outside food) a lot!  We would usually spending $30 at McDonalds, $25-$30 at Subway, $45 at Burger King (that is why we usually don’t go there because everything is so expensive), $50-$75 at restaurants, and $100 plus on date-nights (calculating babysitter and food).

So … let’s do the math.  In the past we would usually eat eight meals at McDonalds/month (=$240), two or three times at Burger King (=$135), 10 times at Subway (=$300), two or three times at a restaurants ($225), and a date night once a week (=$400).

If you add it all up we would spend around $1,300 (this is the best case because sometimes it’s much worse)… just on outside food!  This does not include getting groceries or having BBQs or anything like that!  I just can’t believe how much we use to spend.

Once I start cutting “fat” from our budget we will eat fast food once every two weeks, once a month we would have family dinner at a restaurant, and once a month date night.

Not only we are eating healthier, but always have dinner on the table … it took me little bit to get organized and master this but I did it.  These simple changes made up save over $1,000/month or $12,000/year!

2.  Changed our phone services.  Well … we cancelled our house phone because no one was really using it.  I think we use to use it once a week since every important calls came through our cell phones.   We even used Magic Jack to save money, but didn’t promise what they stated in their commercial.

Cancellation of house phone saved up extra $60/month or $720/year.

3.  Getting rid of memberships.  For instance, I got rid of our family’s health/gym membership because we would never go and use it.  We did use it few times to go to the pool, but we are too busy to exercise.  One of the reasons why I purchased a family membership was because when I took the kiddos to the pool they wanted me to pay over $35 to use the pool (as a non-member price).  After talking with the gym clerk she informed to me I can spend $55 a month on a family membership and use the pool anytime we want.

So thinking I will bring the kids to the pool often I thought it made financial sense … until we got so busy to go to the pool.  At the end … it’s cheaper  to pay $35 a visit rather than paying monthly $55.

Getting rid of the family membership saved me $55/month or $660/year.

4.  Cut movie services.  We used to have mail/instant stream Netflix membership for $25 a month, but discovered most of the “NEW” movies we put on the list wasn’t available.  So we wound up getting them 2-3 weeks after it was available on Netflix.  Not only we weren’t getting our moneys worth, but was really annoying since we kept on getting movies that were further down our movie list.  Thus, we switched to only “instant stream” package for $7 a month.

Savings: $18/month or $216/year

5.  Cancelled Gamefly services for the kids.  I used to buy tons of Wii games for the kids, but it was too difficult for my young kids to play or it was really lame.

Unfortunately, after you open the game you just can’t return them to the store so we got stuck with the games.  I tried to sell it at a used game store, but they would give me 1/6th of the game price.  For example, I purchased a game at Best Buy for $39.00 (without tax), but the used game store would pay me only $6!  Can you believe that?  My kids played with it for only 20 minutes.  After hearing this ridiculous offer these games are still on the game shelf until the kids are old enough to understand the game and play.

Reason why I signed up with Gamefly is that kids can play with it and if they really like it then we can go to the store and purchase it … like test it out before buying it idea.

That back fired because I kept on forgetting it to return, and the games that my kids wanted to play stay at home for weeks at a time.

So … unless you are a avid game player then game services doesn’t really make financial sense.

Saving: $24.99/month or $299.88/year

6.  REDBOX is your friend!  My husband and I watch lots of movies, after kids go to bed, to bond and have husband/wife date, and rent a movie through onDemand or Vudu.  These services usually do have movies out early, but price ranged from $3.99 to $4.99 per movie (for 24 hours once you start watching them).  We would usually watch 2-3 movies a weeks, but got very expensive at the end of the month.

I was reluctant to use REDBOX again because I kept on forgetting to return the movies, and would cost me $10-$12 a piece.  However, once I start becoming more organized I almost always return it the next day.  Let me tell you, it’s a huge huge saving!  Yes, it doesn’t have the latest movies and may have to wait extra week or so, but so worth the price.

Saving: $42/month or $504/year

7.  Smart cuponing!  I can’t stress this enough!  I used to spend so much money at the grocery store, and still didn’t have decent thing to eat at home.  Honestly, grocery budget and takeout foods were our family’s biggest cost since we are very picky eaters.  Also, watching Foodnetwork really sabotaged my budget because I would go to the store everyday to pick up all the necessary ingredients from an episode … I guess I was trying too hard.

In the past, if the recipe called for Fillet Mignon I would head to the store and pick up 5-6 pieces (at $12/piece) and make that for dinner.  Why?  Because the chefs on TV used fillet Mignon and not strip steaks!

I was a wasteful shopper and didn’t experiment too much with food; but now I experiment more with my cooking and make wiser substitute for expensive ingredients to create budget friendly meals.

Remind you that my past grocery budget didn’t include gas/fuel for the cars, “fun” money for the kids & myself, and etc.  NOW … my monthly grocery budget includes all of that plus more!

Saving:  $2,000/month or $24,000/year

These are the few steps I have taken to control our spending!  To think of it I can’t believe how wasteful I was!

It’s really amazing how cutting $10 here $20 there can save you tons of money at the end of the month!  You don’t really realize how much money you are wasting every month until you figure out how much you are spending at the end of the month.

In the beginning I would think to myself it’s $55 for a membership or $20 a month for movies, but when you start adding up … WOW … I was so wasteful!

So, to my surprise, here is my total saving (just out of seven factors I instituted) a month was $3,199.99 or $38,399.88 a year!

I am not going to lie to you guys … eating out and wasting money did make my life easier, but not $38,000 nice!  I should have own a summer house or cottage on the lake by now if I saved that much money!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Just want to share with you that Dillons and Gerbes have their special online promotions going on right now.  Below products are ALL in the Gerbes and Dillons weekly sale ad!  Make sure to log into your account and upload coupons everyday!  Some of these coupons are awesome!!!!

CLICK HERE to see the DEALS of the DAY coupons:

1/26/2012 — SAVE $0.65 on Philadelphia

1/27/2012 — SAVE $1.50 on OSCAR MAYER Carving Board Meats (7.5 oz)

1/28/2012 — SAVE $2.00 on Quilted Northern Bathroom Tissue

1/29/2012 — SAVE $2.00 on Brawny Paper Towels (6 Big Rolls)

1/30/2012 — SAVE $0.75 on Frank’s RedHot (12 oz or larger)

1/31/2012 — SAVE $1.50 on Frito-Lay dip (15 oz or larger, NO SALSA/QUESO)

2/1/2012 — save $2.00 on Gatorade (8-pk)

2/2/2012 — SAVE $2.50 on VELVEETA 32 oz

2/3/2012 — SAVE $1.00 on ONE (1) Quaker Chewy Bar

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I have strict rules when purchasing clothes.

I will NOT pay full price … unless I NEED to have it (which happens … NEVER), and try to collect items that will last me for a long time (style wise …).

Let me clearify that a little bit.  I try my best to collect and classic style items so it’s always acceptable to wear.  Of course, I will purchase “fad” fashion items as well, but it is at a minimal cost!

In the past I would stock up on clothes because “it was cheap” at the clearance section, but I never wear them … so, why in the heck was I doing that?

I also have specific amount set in my head when purchasing clothes for myself or my family.  For instance, I will NOT spend more than $10.00 for a top or a bottom (shorts, skirt, jeans, pants, shirts, and etc) … generally speaking.  If it is over $0.99 or even $5.00 I will probably purchase them, but my decision will be based on where I buy them.  For example, I will go up to $1.50 if I am purchasing it at Walmart but will not spend $5.00 more  ($5.00 increase is at nice department stores).

With that said … since I shop after season is over, at the clearance rack, I can usually pick up many beautiful clothes at nice places like Dillards, Macy’s, Limited, and etc.

I was bord and decided to checkout Target Website and came across great clearance items.  Here’s what I found …

Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Bootcut Jeans
Reg: $16.00
Clearance P: $5.60
You can NEVER have enough jeans in my opinion!

Mossimo Supply Co. Junors 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan
Reg: $19.99
Clearance P: $6.98
Cardigans are so versatile and MUST have in my closet … ALL YEAR LONG!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I managed to pick up 4 multi-pack Yoplait yogurt (Trix Yogurt) and 2 Dannon Daniamls Yogurt tubes for only $0.49 a pack.

Gerbes, on Broadway, has these little beauties for ONLY $0.99 (Manager’s Specials)!  You might think it doesn’t have enough shelf-life, but all of these yogurts expiration dates were January 23, 2012. 

My kids wont have any problem devouring these treats … I can safely assume that all 6-packs of Yogurts will be gone by next week! 

With my printable coupons and Sunday insert coupons I ONLY paid $0.49 a pack or $2.94!

Happy Hunting!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I am having a serious issue ever since I read an article regarding “best dads in …”

In general I don’t really like the notion where publications and media claiming to finding and voting on “best dads …” or “best moms …” in anything.

It is not only insulting to other moms and dads out there, but it is so biased!

Yes … there are great moms/dads, and there are bad moms/dad (i.e. parents abusing their children), but “best” among the others?  I don’t think so …

I think, we as parents, try our hardest to provide for our children, to spend quality time with them, to love and cherish them, but we CAN’T do it all!

I will try not to tarnish the winner’s claim to position, but the basic factors of being the “best dad are …” (paraphrased to protect an individual)

1)  He attends kids activities …

2) Will not complain …

3) Spends time with the children …

4) Will best to balance between work and family …

5) He is dedicated to his family …

6) He is patient …

Well … like most dads I know they do all of those things, and more.  So … if your husband had to work more hours to provide for his family does that mean that he is a bad fathers?  Or if he complains does that mean he is also a bad fathers?

Let’s approach it this way … if a father is deployed to overseas and not able to see his kids for a year (and can’t attend his children’s soccer practice or daughter’s dance recital) does that mean he is a bad father too?  or just a good soldier?

What about people who didn’t send in recommendations to a publisher for this title … does that mean he is less of a father because his family and friends didn’t send in a letter?

As you can tell … this is running deep in my core because I know plenty of moms and dads who are doing their hardest to be good parents to their children.

I know, like many of you women out there, I have a great husband, an AWESOME father to my children (I am blessed and if my sons become 1/2 of what their father does for them then I know my future grandchildren will be blessed too), and perfect partner.

Just like an old saying … A man does not have convince himself (or everyone else) by saying “I’m a man” to be a MAN; and this applies to being a good father.

To fathers and mother out there … you don’t need a validation from publications …

Do your best … even though times maybe tough …

Do love and cherish your family …

Do laugh off the little stuff …

Do hug your children and be there for them when they need a should to cry on …

Do enjoy the little stuff …

but mostly …

Do NOT make “them” belittle your efforts …

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Better … safer … cheaper … no pain liposuction?

Sign me up baby!!!

I have always wanted a liposuction and a tummy tuck, but I always chicken-out at the end.

I shouldn’t care how my belly looks like and should have higher self-esteem (God know that is what we are trying to teach our kids), but having kids made my belly look less then desirable.

My husband loves me the way I am and I would never blame my kids because we wanted each and every kid … they are our gifts!!!

I always had in mind, before I got pregnant with my first child, that my belly would grow and that I would still be skinny and beautiful!  Well, that changed because I ate everything and anything … if it was edible I ate it!

There are some women who look beautiful when they are pregnant (you know they just look like RIGHT), but with me it was total opposite.  I am not being modest or even exaggerate … I just looked awkward and uncomfortable.

My body just exploded and my stretch-marks had stretch-marks, and I looked like I should be carrying at least twins (which I wasn’t).

My doctor told me that I did gain excess weight and that some people have stretch-marks no matter what they do (or how much weight they gain) and other don’t … it’s all genetics!

I guess I was the unlucky ones … I started to get stretch-marks long before I start gaining weight!  Boo-hoo!!!

Anyhow, I always wanted a liposuction and have a tummy tuck because I looked like I have a butt on my belly … my youngest would say to me “mommy … you have two butts!  One in front and one in back!  That’s funny!”

I tell you … kids know exactly what to say to make you feel better!!

However, with that said, I can’t imagine going through the anesthesiology, endure pain and financial commitments to look and feel better; never-mind being out of commission for week or two for my kids!

Well, my hubby accidentally stumbled up on ZERONA.

Apparently it has received tons of great reviews and became main stream because it’s not a surgery.  It is a non-invasive body contouring treatment proven clinically and approved by the FDA.  Procedure itself has been extensively researched since 1998 to reduce fat cells and reducing up to 6 inches of your waist.

Here are other perks:

1.     Only device that does not harm fat cells (important because fat cells maintain hormones and immune systems)
2.    NO pain
3.    NO surgery
4.    NO Downtime (it’s like getting a facial)
5.    Decreases you appetite
6.    Decreases your BAD cholesterol
7.    Increase your good cholesterol

ZERONA has been seen on Rachel Ray Show, The Early Show, EXTRA, a.m.northwest, NEWS 8, and Channel 5 News.

Unlike “ONE” time deal with traditional liposuction, to receive maximum effect of ZERONA the laser sessions are divided up to six – 40 minute treatments.

While ZERONA claim people, on average, will lose around 4-6 inches off your waist some patients have lost 7-11 inches!

I can’t believe it!!!

Depending on where you live, which office you choose, and what kind of promotional deals you can find the average cost of FULL Six-session treatment will run around $2,500.

It is still quite expensive, but it is much cheaper than traditional liposuction.  With the traditional liposuction you have to count your plastic surgeon cost, anesthesiologists cost, hospital costs, pain medicines, and child care costs (not including lots of takeouts!).

In many instances, insurances will not cover plastic surgeries because it is an elective surgery; which leaves you with paying everything out of your pocket.

My hubby and I are really excited, and I am definitely going this route!  Early Christmas Gift?  Maybe?

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

What can I say … I am a sucker for vampire movies.

My husband and I decided to rent Priest movie starting Paul Bettany (Legion, The Tourist, and Iron Man – voice of Jarvin), Karl Urban (The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Riddick, Star Trek), Maggie Q (Balls of Fury, Mission: Impossible III, and Live Free or Die Hard), Stephen Moyer (True Blood and The Caller), and Cam Gigandet (Twilight, Burlesque, and Easy A).

Funny thing is that the two characters already played or is playing vampires (Stephen Moyer and Cam Gigandet) did not play their “vampire roles.”  This part did not make the movie better nor worse, but when I kept on seeing those two characters, during the movie, I kept on saying “Bill is dying!” or “James should be chasing Bella right now!”

I think my constant interruptions annoyed the heck out of my husband, but for me they will be known as VAMPIRES in my head … You know what I mean?

Well … as usual, the cities were dark, people were dirty, and it was depressing.  I kept on thinking to myself they have the technology but why are they wearing dirty clothes, how come they didn’t use UV lights, how come they are dressed in cowboy outfits from the 19th century, and even saying to myself the Priest should wear a helmet (when he was driving his motorcycle in the dessert … being a mom makes you think and say things little differently now!  ).

I know I am making more to this movie than it is, and I am probably over thinking things.

My husband even told me, with a good old hearty laugh, ”that’s where the story broke down for you?  Vampires and super priests were OK?”

I started to laugh, and told him “YES!”  We both broke down and laughed, and had to put the movie on pause until we restored our composures.

The movie was not BAD, but it really wasn’t good either.  I thought $5.00 to rent the movie was worth it, but if I had to pay more to watch that movie would made me annoyed.

Martial art scenes and graphics arts were fine, but it was hard to grasp (as an audience) the story lines and the directory’s vision.  I thought it was quite far-fetched … too far-fetched.

I am not a movie critic, but y whole point to this movie, in my opinion, is that it was worth watching it for $5.00.  I wouldn’t pay more (or even again) to watch this movie again; however, if it is on HBO or SHO channels I would watch it again … well, it all depends on what other movies are on!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Ok … I couldn’t help it!

There was really nothing on TV, and my Housewives shows on Bravo TV were not on so I decided to watch MOST Eligible Dallas.

Wow … things haven’t changed.

Girls are mean (especially to other girls), and boys are well … boys.

I know it’s not an excuse for them to act this way (especially Courtney), but I do understand the frustration.

With that said, the comment she has made about Neill’s absence, from her child, for one night to go out with her new Dallas Friends was totally irrational and ignorant.

As you can tell, she is not a mother, and that is totally expected from people with no children.

Moms and dads need breaks!

Day in and day out of spending time with your child is not healthy (mentally), and if the baby is left with trust worthy people for few hours so you can go out and have a glass a wine and maybe dance a little will do wonders to baby-mother relationship.

I can go on and on about this, but let’s keep it short and sweet.

Boys will be boys … wow, that really hasn’t changed.

Honestly, there is nothing really more to say except that they will one day grow up!  Hmmm …

I thought the show was entertaining and probably have to watch couple of more episodes to decide if it is that interesting.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I have been going back and forth between binders and a plastic bin.

Both have its own pros and cons, but I am trying to find the perfect solution for all of my coupons!

I have to confess … I think I have been having a love affair with my coupons because I spend more time organizing, sorting, and transferring my coupons at night then my hubby!  LOL

After many trial and errors I have gone back to my binders.

Here are the reasons why:

1.     Clipped coupons kept slipping around the plastic bin (or slide to the sides)
2.    Constant getting paper cuts and cuticles were getting sliced.
3.    Even though the bin fits perfectly in the child seat it can be little bulky.
4.    Actually seeing the coupons can be little time consuming; especially if you have kids shopping with you.

Unfortunately, I grew out of my two 2” zip up binders so rather than buying a larger (4-5” zip up binder you see on Ex. Coupon show) binder I opt to purchase regular 3” binder at Walmart for $8.99.

It does have its own drawback … possibilities of coupons falling out, but I couldn’t see myself spending more money on coupon storage experiment.
Thus, I have separated my coupons into two separate binders … one for FOOD items, and another (smaller 2” binder already had at home) for NOON-FOOD items.

Coupon Wallet

I also utilized my long lost coupon wallet for carrying only FEMININE, BEAUTY, and STORE COUPONS.

I go in and out of drug stores and Walmart all the time, and many shopping trips does not require shopping for food.  I go there to pick up a lipstick here, dog treats there, toys and craft things here, and etc.

Once you start couponing you’ll soon realize you have so many coupons, and those things get heavier and heavier.

Back to my binders … since the binders do not zip I carry those two binders in my “diaper bag.”  You might wonder … “what … a diaper bag?” but I can assure you it’s not a diaper bag.

I hated carrying traditional diaper bags so I used my old leather hobo bag to carry all of my kid’s baby things, and now I use it as my coupon carrier.  The bag has large pockets and the bag is deep enough and large enough to hold two large binders filled with coupons.  It’s heavy, but it does its job!

For my “drug store” goodie coupons I went back to my roots and have use my coupon wallet.  This little baby is so useful, and I can put in my purse and carry it with me anywhere I go.

My coupon wallet is little bit worn out, but it does its job and don’t have the heart to get rid of it!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I still have a dilemma with my coupon organizer; like many of you.

Not only I have not found the PERFECT method to get my coupons organized easily and efficiently, but also have not found an easier way to carry my coupons at all times.

There are many different ways to use and organize your coupons, but finding the perfect method, that works for YOU, can be frustrating and costly.

Coupon Wallet

The most popular method to organize your coupons, especially for freshmen couponers, is the coupon wallet method because you haven’t required many coupons.

This method works beautifully if you don’t have many coupons or don’t want many coupons to haul to stores, however, once you become more coupon obsessed (like myself!) you will eventually graduate from this method.

I initially started out with process, but after a month of accumulating coupons (cutting, clipping, and ordering coupons online) my little wallet was bursting out with coupons.

Coupon wallet was ideal for me, at that time, because I do make numerous shopping trips to different stores, and I carry it with me at all times in my purse.  As you already know … there are many items on sale that were not in the weekly circular so having your coupons with you all times will not only save you money, but also eliminate additional trips you have to make.

For instance, my store had Vanity napkins on sale (discontinued price) for $1.07, and since I had my coupons with me I just picked out my coupons.  The final price was $0.07 per packet; so I purchased 10 bags totaling $0.70.

The second method I used was the binder system.

Before heading out to the store to purchase a big zip-up binder I initially started out with a small three ring binder measuring 5 ½” X 8 ½” X 1” because I still wanted to carry my coupon organizer in my purse.

Let me tell you … this particular size binder was quite hard to find in store!  I finally found one at our local Office Depot store for $5.99.  The binder price was great, but purchasing accessories for this binder was expensive.

For example, there were no dividers or binder pockets to fit this particular size binder; so I was left with buying accessories at the calendars & planners aisle.

I bought two binder pockets (four dividers in a packet) for $5.00 each, three map protectors (to hold my larger coupons) $3.00 each, and a box of card envelopes for $5.00.

So between the binder and the accessories my total purchase was little over $30.00.  I know it’s kind of steep (frankly, I was shocked at the checkout lane), but I still had the option to carry it comfortably in my purse.

Unfortunately, after a week of having this binder my coupons were bursting out once again.

I was really ticked off because I spent so much money doing it this way, but what are you going to do; right?

The third, and final, option I evolved to was the traditional binder book system.  It really looks tacky, for my preference, but it does hold all of my coupons, and finding coupons are relatively easier than the other options.

Coupon BinderThis binder cost me around $35 because I had to buy three packets of card holder film; which cost around $8.00 a pop.

Even though this system is relatively organized I am not really too fond of it.  Here are pros and cons of this method; from personal experience.

Pro:
1.     Coupons are easily organized
2.    You can actually see the coupons (especially for the same product, but have different values).
3.    Can arrange into as many categories as you want using tab pockets
4.    All coupons are in one folder.
5.    Can carry it to stores

Cons:
1.     Can get expensive if you have to purchase more than three card hold pockets
2.    There can be “too” many coupons … visually, it can be overwhelming at first.
3.    Large coupons must be folded or cut very close to the edge.  Can be time consuming
4.    Very bulky
5.    Need patience to put your coupons into small sliver of space … (I am still working on the patience part)!
6.    Organizing as you cut coupons can be very irritating, but will share with you how to sort them before heading to your binder

All in all, I can’t really complain because I do have many coupons, but I am still looking for a better way to organize and carry my coupons.
With that said, I have not tried the filing system because I want my coupon organizer with me at times.  There are so many unadvertised sales and “manager’s special” products that having coupons on hand really makes a difference.

For example, I went to Walmart yesterday and discovered Lysol No Touch Soap Dispenser was on clearance section for $5.00 (rather than $9.98 reg. price), and because I had $3.00 off coupons with me I purchased five of them for $10 rather than $25.00.  You honestly don’t know what you are going to find until you are there at the store.

Hope my experience with different coupon organization system helped you.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I am going to share with you little tricks and resources I use to save money.  As of now, on average, I save over 60% – 75% off of my total grocery bill.

Before I go into details you have to have reasonable expectations, and do not get discouraged.  You might wonder how these extreme couponers pay only 10% of their total grocery bill (i.e. bringing down $1,200 bill to mere $120) on TV; right?

If you check videos of these couponers on TV (Extreme Couponing from TLC) you will hear from them, from their private video blogs, that their biggest shopping trip was for the show.

Coupon Pile

I guess, technically, I could have done that was well.  For instance, I could stock up on tons of toothbrushes and pastes, mustards and etc items (where I can purchase great coupons) for free by utilizing my stores double coupon policy.  However, I wasn’t about to buy 300 toothbrushes and deodorants for the sake of buying because unless you can get 300 free coupons for them it is still going to cost you.

For example, lowest coupon price I came across is about $0.05 apiece; so if you order 300 coupons for toothbrushes, toothpastes, and deodorants it will cost you around $45 (without taxes if applicable and S/H fee).

I do have good stack of toothbrushes, toothpastes, and deodorants, but enough to fill up a small bin.  My plan is to stock up on these things slowly so it does not influence my monthly grocery budget, and later donating to our local women’s shelter.

Think about it … most people do not receive stacks of coupon inserts from their local newspaper company, or grocer or delivery person.  “Normal” families receives and buy couple of newspapers and buy coupons through via ebay or coupon clipping services … well, that is what I do.

I am not about to buy 10 newspapers at $1.50 each a week (that is whopping $11.50 or $46 a month)  … unless there are many great coupons I can actually use.

I do receive two Sunday newspapers a week through delivery services, I only receive Sunday copies, and the rest of the coupons are purchased through ebay and coupon clipping service.  I utilize this method, my own smart couponing process, that works for me because I can pick and choose what I buy, how many to buy, and what cost I can buy it for.  Also, I am not stressing myself over cutting and organizing.

Many times you will find $1 off 2 items, but I want to purchase a product at its lowest cost; so I utilize ebay to find better coupon deals: i.e. $0.75 off 1 which will double to a dollar.  For instance, drink bottles is on sale for $1.00 each and want to purchase 20 of them because it’s an awesome price and I can add it to my stock pile.  Here is the math breakdown of 3 options:

Option 1: Without the coupon
20 bottles X $1.00 = $20.00

Option 2: Using $1 off 2 coupons
20 bottles X $1.00 = $20.00
10 coupons used ($1 off 2) = Saving of $10.00
Total purchase = $10.00
Saving of 50%

Bought 10 newspapers which cost you $11.50; so there is no saving in this particular purchase; however, this is just one item calculation and other combine grocery purchases off-sets how much you have already invested in the newspaper cost.

Option 3: Using coupons with better discounts
20 bottles X $1.00 = $20.00
20 coupons used ($0.75 off 1) = Saving of $15.00 (+ double coupon up to $1) = Saving of $20.00
Total purchase = FREE

Bought 20 coupons at ebay for $0.99 plus $0.49 S/H = $1.48

So even though I invested $1.48 to get 20 drink coupons I saved over 93%!

Of course, you will not always find these coupons and if you do find these coupons I have noticed that many people just bid to get those coupons.  For instance, I will not buy coupons that will not save me more than 75% because I have to calculate the cost of the coupons I will be purchasing.

I went on ebay last night discovered coupons for Fuze drinks because my hubby just love these drinks, and these drinks come in very handy during summer time because I can make different mix drinks.

I started to laugh when I saw the bid history.  You might be thinking, “Well, that is really mean,” but I just couldn’t help myself.  These people were in a bidding war which you should NEVER do!!!

You might be asking; why?  It’s quite simple.  Once you are involved in a bidding war you are over-inflating the costs of the coupons (or these people will state “time for their coupon clipping”).  Not only this will not help your cause, but you are also not helping other’s cause to save money as well … not a smart couponing option.

Let me tell you first hand that ebay is very addictive.  It gets the best of us … even to people who refuse to gamble (like myself … I don’t even buy $1 scratch lotto tickets!).  You get very involved in the bidding process and determination to win clouds your judgment; never mind increase in adrenaline when you do win.

Once you win the item, and really think about what you have done you wish you can kick yourself in the butt.  It happened to me couple of times, and I felt like a total idiot!

Back to my story … I did notice that most people were bidding and paying for coupons that will save them very little (in my book anyway).
For instance, 20 coupons were on sale (“Buy it Now” for up to $10.00 plus $.99 s/h and Auctions for $8.99 plus $0.99 s/h) which total valued at $20.00.

I did some math to show you “WHAT NOT TO DO!”

Note:

C.Buy = how much you paid for the coupons
Sale P. = sale price of a product at store
Q = Quantity
P. b4 C. = Total cost before utilizing coupons
# C Used = number of coupons used
Cost = how much you paid at the check out
Saving (After C) = How much you saved once coupons are credited into account
Real Saving = How much you paid at the check-out minus the coupons you have paid for

Many times people don’t calculate the cost of coupons they have purchased or need to purchase in order to save money.  Above calculations does not include S/H charges to make the math simple and easy for me.

In my smart couponing philosphy … I do not spend more than $0.25 per coupon, and this is a rare case where I will spend this much money on a coupon.  There are few instances where I will pay up to a quarter for a coupon based on the coupon value: i.e. I paid $2.50 for 10 – Chex Mix coupon because it valued at $1.00 each and my store had a great sale on Chex Mix for a $1.00 each (it was a mix and match sale).

By the time I utilized my electronic coupons through my store card, and three printable coupons I went home very happy.  Did you know you can stack coupons at some stores?

Stacking coupons are where you can use your store card coupons plus printable coupons, and manufactured coupons all into one transaction.  You have to ask your store if they do that or not, but I just discovered my store stack coupons.  I will cover this topic in another blog.

Receipt

Here is how I stacked my coupons.

Bought 10 coupons at $2.50
Bought 10 bags of Chex Mix: total $10.00
Used my 10 purchased coupons: Total $10.00
Store card (or e-coupon): Total $0.50
3 printed out coupons ($0.50/3): $1.50 but it doubled (total surprise!): Total $3.00
Final Price: $2.50 + $10.00 – $10.00 – $0.50 – $3.00 = minus $1.00; which means that the store gave me a dollar to take 10 bags of Chex Mix home.

This is a situation where paying few bucks more here is acceptable and well worth spending extra money.  Just remember to be patient, and have realistic goals!  You are not going to fill your storage room with groceries over night, and honestly, you shouldn’t.

Figure out what your family uses and not use, and make sure not to buy to buy.  Get organized and figure your systems out.

Hope my jabbering helps!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Wouldn’t you love to save money on your home phone bills?

On average, home phone lines can run up to $50 a month (of course this is just for one line), unless if you are a new customer; which then the phone companies will usually set you up a line for around $30 a month for six months to one year term agreement.  These promotional offers are based on where you live, what kind of services you may have, and etc.

Well, I thought I was going to outsmart those phone companies by using alternative technology.  I opt out of Vonage because they only offered $15/month services for three months, and were not willing to spend $30/a month afterwards.

Our family really didn’t need a home phone because I am always out of the house doing my own things with children, and frankly we had our cell phones on us at all times.

Well, as children get older I guess they need to speak with their friends more often.  Phooy … what do moms know; right?  Honestly, I was not about to give my elementary children a cell phone.  Yes, my children’s friends, at school, have their own private phones with their private numbers, but I guess I am a lame mom for not getting one for them.

My daughter and her friends will speak hours on end talking on the phone while playing their online games.  I guess they can communicate with one another through their game, but they prefer talking on the phone since none of them are great at typing.

Eventually my cell phone battery dies out, and it is not fair for me to be robbed out of my own phone time with my friends and family.  End of the day I am the one who is paying for the phone bills and not my children.

Magic Jack

So after serious thoughts, I decided to go with Magic Jack because we already had a T1 line and high-speed DSL lines at home.

To my surprise I had to purchase the kit at the store for $40 (without taxes) – I guess I should have paid closer attention to the commercial.

According to the commercial, “We now offer phone services for $1.70 a month.  With Magic Jack it’s $19.95 a Year.  Free local and long distance and your own phone number.”

Sound great; right?  My mom told me “if it sounds too good then it probably is.”  I should have gone with my gut, but without any research I went to my local Walmart store and purchased one.

I was so excited that my children will have their own “phone,” that I rushed back home to install this gadget.  Luckily for me, it really was easy to install the “software” because all you had to do was to plug in the adaptor to the computer and complete form.

I kind of got confused and subscribed to 5 year agreement for $70 (or so), but I thought to myself that will not have to pay a phone bill for next 5 years; so what the heck.

Like the commercial claimed, I did get to choose my number, but the choices were very limited.  There was a not a specific prefix designated to my area, but I did get to pick my area code of my current residence.

I honestly didn’t think anything of it because I had my local area code so my children’s friends can call them anytime.

The quality was “ify” because one day it was really clear and didn’t have an echo, but other times it was full of static, and very hard for the other person online to hear.  BUT … for $1.70 a month they can call and recall each other until they establish a good connection.  I really was not that picky.

So little after a month or so my friend informed me that they were charged $12 for calling my number.  I informed her that we had a local area code (which she already knew), so we both were really confused to why she was charged.

Unfortunately, Magic Jack does not have a designated phone number (they do, but recording specifically states that you can be on hold for a long time, and that best chance to get hold of MJ people are through their online chat form) so I got hold of the customer service through their live-chat.

The person was very helpful, and he informed me that the caller had to have the identical area code plus first three prefix numbers to call our number to be considered as a local number.  I was in an utter shock!  I thought since we had a local area code our numbers will be considered a local number; but WRONG!!!

I was very irritated at this point.  Not only I was dooped into getting this thing, but my friends were getting charged to call me.  I am wondering how many friends of mine were getting charged, but didn’t tell me?

MJ person told me to return the device first before they can give me any kind of refund.  Thank goodness for our local Walmart because they had a great return policy (and the fact that I did not want cash back made it much easier) and received my money back via gift card.

After successfully returning the device I chated with another Magic Jack representative and got my money back.  She did inform me that I will receive an email once the credit has been posed to my credit card.  Well, that was about a week now, and has not received an email yet.  I am going to give them another week to process my return of my funds.

This is a personal experience I am sharing with you.  There might be tons of people who are more than satisfied with their products and services (it is quite popular), but it did not work for me at all.  I was very disappointed with their product; however, the customer service representatives were very pleasant to work with and speak with.  That’s a plus; right?

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Coupons are awesome!  Who would have thought using coupons at your grocery stores can save you tons of money at the end of the month?

Generally, I am averaging out here, I save around 50% of my total grocery bills; this include food, drinks, and health and beauty (H&B) products.

I have not completely mastered this extreme couponing business, but I am getting there.

Did you know there is a right way and wrong ways to use your coupons?  You are wondering … there is a wrong way to use coupons?  Sorry to tell you, but “YES!”

Here is COUPON 101 session for you guys who are just curious or interested in using coupons to save money at the grocery store.

Basically, there are three major wrong ways to use coupons.

1)    Using coupons at its face value (taking 50 cents off a product) rather than trying to double or triple it.  If you live in a town where stores triple your coupons, then you are lucky as heck.  Our stores only double up to a dollar.
2)     Using coupons to meet the expiration.
3)    The deal is too good.

Back to my three lists and left me further explain what I mean.

Making money is hard, and coupons are great ways to make money.  Yes … you are making money when you don’t have to pay for things.  If it does not come out of your pocket then you are making money; right?

As a stay home mom it is my responsibility to run the house efficiently and effectively as possible.  It is my job to stretch our budget to its limit, and save much money as possible.  If I can do this then I am making my husband’s job much easier.

Technically, I guess I can go back to work and bring home a second income; however, I enjoy staying with my children and I am blessed that I have options.  Unfortunately, there are so many women who don’t have this option, and they are forced to go back to work after their maternity leave.

Even with women who had the luxury to stay home with their children before are faced with going back to work to make their ends meet.

So, if you have 10 of 50 cents off coupons wouldn’t you rather make $5 or $10?  Remember … coupons are money … money the manufacturers are giving to you.  It might not be glamorous, or somewhat embarrassing to some of you, but I never encountered a person who was embarrassed to pick up their paycheck.  They might be mad that they didn’t make as much (after taxes are deducted), but never embarrassed.

Second mistake … using coupons because the expiration date is running out or it’s the last day.  This might come to a surprise to you, but call your store to see what their coupon policies are.  Some stores will take expired coupons up to two week after its original date.

Of course, this is all up to the stores discretion, but it doesn’t hurt you to ask them.  Remember … when you are calling the store be very specific about your concern.  Example, I had 25 coupons that stated “Do NOT DOUBLE,” but my stores previously doubled my coupons on other things; however, I never used this particular coupons so I ask.

Fortunately, the lady at the customer service desk informed me that they will indeed double it, and just void what it said on the coupon … AWESOME!!!

Just because the coupon’s date is running out does not mean that you have to go to the store and use them; especially if you are taking the coupon value on regularly priced merchandise.

Final big mistake … coupon deal is too good.  What do I mean by it?  There are two major circumstances when it comes to great coupon deals: 1) generous coupon value (e.g. $2 – $10 off), and 2) free product.

Shopper will probably take their awesome deal coupon to the store and just pick it out, but not me.  For instance, I received a “Free Package of Hot Dogs” store coupon but I did use them right away because it had 30 day expiration date.

After holding on to the coupon for two weeks I discovered that this particular hot dog brands were on sale as “buy one and get one free,” and I also had a manufacturer’s coupon for $1.00 off.  By combining those two coupons not only I received my second package of hot dogs for free (as sale stated), but my store coupon made the first package free as well.  To make my shopping trip more gangster the store gave me $1 back; which went towards my weekly shopping trip.

Be wise about it … the worst case scenario for this coupon is that, by end of the expiration date, if you don’t find a great deal then you just get a package of hot dogs rather than two.

Of course, there are many other mistakes, but this is the three major ones I came across (personally speaking) and you should avoid at all cost.  It will make your money go farther, and get more bang for your coupons.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I finally did it!!!  I got some free groceries!!!

As you know I am trying to pay as little as possible for my total grocery bill; as everyone know – “extreme couponing.”

Well, I decided to buy some Vitaminwaters because I am totally exhausted by mid afternoon.  Guess driving kids back and forth to schools, having play dates for my little ones, walking the dogs, making lunch and dinner every day, taking the older kids to their extracurricular activities (every day after school), taking care of the house, and writing blogs totally exhausts me out.

Of course, this is not counting fulfilling my obligations to my husband; but that is another story.  Trust me though … we are HAPPY!

Vitaminwater

Back to my sheer exhaustion; I bought 25 Vitaminwater coupons through ebay, and I think I paid for $5 or something.  I know it sounds like I paid too much for it (I would usually never pay so much for coupons), but my local store a big sale and I could double these little babies. 

These waters were on sale for $1 each and I took advantage of my double couponing deals; which in turn paid NOTHING for the water.  These drinks were free groceries!! 

So, if I break down what I spent on the coupons to what I truly paid was $0.21!  That is pretty awesome; right?

Most exciting thing about this shopping trip was that I didn’t have to pay for my Vitamin waters at the store!  It was an exhilarating feeling!  One of the extreme couponers said “it’s a rush,” and I totally agree with her.

To break down what I spent and what I paid breaks down like this. 

1)  25 bottles of Vitamin waters @ $1.49/each equals $37.25
2) A pack of Yoplait Chocolate Delight @ $2.50.
3) A loaf of Peppereridge Farm Break @ $3.79.
4) 2 Tostino pizza rolls @ $1.99/each which equals to $3.98
5) A gallon of Horizon milk at $4.99

Total grocery bill was $52.00 and some change, but lets round it off to $52.00 – makes the math little bit easier.  Between vendor coupons, multi coupons and store coupons I only paid for $6.70!  This is whopping 87% saving!!!!

Before rejoicing too much about my free groceries … I did have to go to the customer service desk because my $0.50 off coupons for my Vitamin waters did not double to a dollar.  I did call the store to make sure that they will double the coupons for me because the coupon did say “do not double;” however, the lady did tell me over the phone that they will indeed double it for me.

So, at the register, I had to pay $20.00 to check out, but once I went to the customer service desk I receive $12.50 (plus tax) in cash.  At the end I paid only $6.70 for my $52.00 worth of groceries or $11.70 or 77.5% saving (if you calculate in the cost of coupons).

You guys might not be too impressed, but I think I am doing a great job considering I have been doing this for 3-4 months … I am not really sure when I did it, but at least 3 months.

Before extreme couponing I never would go up to the customer service to get money back or even call to check out how their couponing system works.  I was too proud to ask and somewhat too embarrassed to ask.

Now?  Well, I have no shame now.  If I can save 10 cents then I am going to save that 10 cents like it was my last dime in my pocket.
Funny thing … I went to buy Vitamin waters to re-exhilarate my tiring body, but I came across a funny article about VW.

In 2010, a Federal Judge ruled that Vitaminwater will not keep you healthy nor bring about healthy state of physical or mental being.  It’s just a non-carbonated fruit drink that’s filled with sugar.

Moreover, Forgione from Tribune Health reports that the National Consumers league has taken complaint to the Federal Trade Commission about this unhealthy drink.

I should have done the research before I bought this stuff, but now I know what to expect and it’s not going to cure my tiredness.  What a bummer, but hey, at least I won’t be thirsty for a while.  

—————————————
 All brand names are owned by the respective owners.  We are not sponsored or endorsed by respective trademark owners.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

The most important thing I can share with you in Saving Money: Part 3 is “DO NOT GET DISCOURAGED!”

Also, in Saving Money: Part 3, I am going to share with you the ups and downs of my first shopping trip using my coupons, and avoiding cooking shows to get my priorities straight.

I have caught myself getting really bummed out by successful couponers and cooking TV shows.  These couponers make it so easy and simple – it almost makes you feel incompetent; you know what I am saying?

I kept on watching TV shows about these extreme couponers or super shoppers, and even utilized Youtube videos to see how these people do it.  Basically, you clip out (or print out) coupons and use it along with store sales … simple.

I finally found two stores, where I live, who participates in double coupon days, and let me just tell you … I LOVE IT!  However, it didn’t really impact as much on my grocery bills like I thought it should have – it was still in the hundreds of dollars range.

Coupon Piles

When I went home I did take out my good old calculator to see how much I saved; in percentage and in dollars.  Unfortunately, even though I saved over $20 I only really saved around 10% of my total grocery bill.  Yes, it is a great start, but I was less than satisfied with the result; especially when I have invested good 3-4 hours of my time to coordinate my trips.

This really bummed me out for couple of days, but my husband assured me that this was a great way to start and I should be proud that I saved $20.  So, after pouting for couple of days I put my game face back on to save more money on my next trip.

One the biggest reason why I felt like I “failed” was because of unrealistic goals I set up for myself.  I assumed I was going to save tons of money, like those women on TV, but boy … was I WRONG!!!

Come on … this one lady only spent 39 cents (or 29 cents – I am 100% sure) for her entire grocery cart filled with food; this includes getting scallops too!!!

Anyhow … I also stopped watching cooking shows too.  You might wonder why, and am going to share with you reasons why I stopped watching cooking shows.  I absence myself from watching cooking shows for couple of month to get my priorities straight.  

You see … I get all caught up with the decorations, kitchen layouts, and kitchen designs.  I have a contractor grade kitchen so layouts are less then desirable – let’s say it is not my personal preference; however, I do have all necessary tools to cook and clean.

These chefs worked in nice kitchens with beautiful cutting boards, sharp knives, top of the line mixers and choppers, and etc.  I guess I wasn’t excited enough to cook in my generic kitchen, and the cheap mini machines I had at home made the simplest tasks annoying.

So, I decided to invest few hundreds of dollars to purchase a Kitchenaid mixer and a chopper.  I can’t believe how much easier it is to chop things in the chopper without constantly breaking down the machine to rearrange vegetables!!!

Guess my mom was right “spend little bit more one time than buying many cheap things because at the end you will spend more constantly replacing the machines you don’t like or broken.”  Always think long term benefit vs short term benefit.

Now, after couple of months my life (our life) is more organized, more efficient, more effective, and more FUN!  Cooking is a breeze, and I basically cook everyday for my family.  You know when was the last time I cooked “edible” food for my family?  NEVER!

I hoped my Saving Money: Part 3 helps you relieve some stress level, and that you are not alone.  Throughout my blog entries I am going to share with you my journey and my own tricks I came across to save money.

This whole couponing thing really changed the way I live, think, and cook for the family.  It’s a blast!!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I refuse to pay for shipping and handling!  Well, if there is no choice I will opt for online stores with the least amount of shipping and handling charge.

Honestly, why in the heck should I pay for $2.99 shipping and handling charge when the stamp charge is mere $0.44 for an envelope?
Yes … I understanding I am not really only paying for the shipment charges itself, but people’s time and service charges (handling fee). 

However, this is a personal belief; I should not have to pay 300% inflated S/H fees to receive mail.

When the kids are FINALLY in bed, at night, I usually surf the net to price shop … I need to compare and contrast prices so I don’t spend any more money than I have to. 

Unlike the younger generation, where they only shop online, I grew up shopping through touching and feeling potential products before I buy things.   Yes, I do order things online, but I have already tested the product before I make an online commitment. 

Online Coupon Codes Retailer

Sometimes, the online deals are awesome!  Not only you get the “store sale price,” but you can also receive additional discounts by applying online coupon codes before checking out.  

I also shop online if the websites are offering additional samples or products for free if you purchase it online.  So, not only you are getting the store sale price but you can get additional 15-20% discounts and free products.  You honestly can’t beat this deal.

I do have separate email account to receive whole bunch of promo codes, sale prices, deals and coupons, but I have discovered that just simply searching it in the search engines are great ways to find online coupon codes.

Most of the times these online coupon codes retailer provide free up-to-date online coupon codes, but there are some websites require you to sign up (or become a member) to receive same coupon codes as the other free retailers.

From my own personal experience, these two different types of online coupon codes retailers have similar offers; so I opt to go with the free ones – well, not signing up ones.

These online coupon codes retailers definitely have saved me tons of money over the years, and I will not shop without them.  Most of the times I will save $7-$20 on shipping costs (more if I receive free expedited shipping), and/or 10-20% on total merchandise costs.

FYI … I did noticed that these priority shipping or expedited shipping that sellers offer can be little deceiving.  Of course, these companies legally covered their butts with 2-3 days of handling process claim, but I did notice some of the sellers shipped the merchandise day after the sales date with regular mailing service.

Technically, I guess I can complain about their deceiving mailing services, but since I got the shipping charges for free I just let it go.  I usually don’t buy things online to ship to my house ASAP because I am not paying $30.00 or more to have the next day service (or two days after because they have their handling process time).

However, most of the times online sellers are great and their shipping services are quick, but just watch out for those shady companies.

I am going off on a tangent again … back to online coupon codes.  Just a little note from me to you … be careful using those online coupon codes because if you use one type of codes before checking out and then change your mind (finding better online coupon code) and put another code it can really mess up your check out price.  Basically, it’s counter-effective.

Sometimes you can go back and use the previous code, but other times it comes up with total different numbers.  It’s really weird, and I actually had to do my online shopping all over again because I was trying to be “cute!” 

Remember … online coupon codes are same as using regular paper coupons.  It’s money!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

This particular blog, Saving Money: Part 2, is a continuation of my mission to save money, but more importantly what I did to succeed.

I have tried many different things to save money: i.e. cutting and printing coupons, planning trips out to leave the house only once, going through store advertisements/sales, and etc.  However, it really never fully worked for me because I was too scattered and set unrealistic goals.

You might ask “what is unrealistic goal?”  Well, watching TV episode about women spending only $10 for their entire grocery bill (vs. spending $80) because they took advantage of double coupon days or getting things only when they had coupons for and etc.

For some odd reason I thought I could do that too; silly me!  I think I took too much cough medicine when I came to that conclusion! 

With that said … I will be talking to you more about organizing and declutter your house in Saving Money: Part 2.

Back to step 1 topic, in Saving Money: Part 2, … you have to de-clutter, and this is something you have to do it.  I used to go shopping randomly and buy things that were on sale and just putting it in the pantry without looking if I had it or not.  I was at that point that my kitchen pantry was full, my garage shelves and cabinets were over stuffed, my downstairs shelves were filling up, and both of my freezers were over flowing with food.  This is how carelessI was … continuing on buying things I didn’t need or even use.  I bought it because it was on sale!

Before you can take your first step … you and your partner must both come to an understanding with mental commitment and preparations.  I failed in the past because I was not 100% committed to save money.  We honestly wanted to save and cut down our living costs, but I gave myself excuse or some sort of justification to buy things.  However, when you are faced with tough financial times it is amazing how easily people can adjust to new realities … for me anyway.

Once you are fully committed it is time to de-clutter.  Organize what you have in your cabinet or shelves and see what you have.  I am not going to sugar coat it for you … it will be messy, over-whelming, disappointing, and physical and mentally exhausting. 

Organized Pantry

I actually lined up all my canned goods according to its categories: i.e. all tomatoes goods in one line, all the soup goods in another line, all the canned sauces in another, and etc.  Holy smacks I had so many canned good!!  Pitiful thing about this was that we don’t even eat canned vegetable goods!  I was so wasteful!!!  I can’t say this enough!

After I was done with the canned goods, I did the same for baked goods, pasta goods, and etc.  After I was done with all of my edible goods I organized all of my kitchen cabinets – dishes, spices, and etc.  No wonder I was running out of cabinet spaces!  I had so many extra dishes, gadgets and utensils – it was taking up precious spaces!  My kitchen cabinets were filled tools I didn’t know I had and tools I haven’t even used. 

I think this was the real turning point for me … how wasteful I was.  By the time I was done with de-cluttering and organizing I had many boxes filled food and kitchen items; which I donated happily.

I couldn’t believe how much of a burden was lifted off from my shoulder … I felt refreshed, driven, organized, and motivated to take another step or the next step.

I am not a great cook and never really fully participated in this cooking business … it has always been take outs or drive through or delivery.  I have to say … I give myself C-minus in “stay home mom category.” 

Well, after getting my act together, cooking is much more fun, and hassle free because I know where things are.  I honestly didn’t know cooking can be this much fun.  I now cook everyday and do not have the desire to eat outside food. 

Lady Cooking

I also find myself downloading and printing new recipes to try out for the family.  Sometimes it’s a hit, and other times it is not since my children are little bit too young to fully appreciate finer ingredients.  My youngest child thinks ketchup will cure all foods … hmmm … at least he is eating it!  So, can’t complain too much here.

My husband and my children are so much happier and love eating my food, and I found myself smiling when they dig into their food I have prepared for them.  It really is rewarding.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

There are so many articles or blogs out there teaching people how to save money, but like everything else they only show you the most extreme shoppers.  If that is not enough, people really fail to show you the obstacles of saving money — they just make it too easy. 

In this particular article, Saving Money: Part 1, I am going to share with you how I initially got started out with this “saving” business. 

People save money or need to cut back on their spending either because “they have,” or “they need to,” or just “want to.”  If you are one of those people who want to save because they think it might be fun or to see if they can do it (in another word … sake of humor) all I can say to you is “good for you!!”  You are one of the lucky ones in this troubling economy.

Honestly, being an adult sucks!  Have your parents ever said to you “enjoy being a kid” or “enjoy being in college?”  Well, I do, and I never really fully understood what they were talking about because my parents provided for us as much as they could (within their financial means) and we had awesome childhood.

Yes, there were times where my parents told us we couldn’t buy things because they couldn’t afford it, or need to watch their spending, but we were never deprived.  Even when my parents were faced with unforeseen costs (helping out my grandparents or fixing leaky roof or replacing old water heater that went dead in the middle of cold winter night or when my dad’s commissions were cut in half) they never burdened us with their financial difficulties.  We knew what was going on, but, as kids, our needs and wants never ended – I guess we were just being kids.

My parents taught us the value of money, saving, maintaining good credit scores and good work ethics; however, I always over-zealous with my money.  I liked making money, but like many of you out there who can sympathize with me I love spending it more; who doesn’t? 

Spend-Spend

Don’t get me wrong … I don’t go out and spend outrageous amount of money on expensive shoes or handbags or on vacations.  I spend $25 here, $100 there, $10 over there, and etc.  By the time the month ends not only I went through my $3,000 household money, but I also racked up another $1,000 (or so) on credit card purchases. 

I have a husband who can’t say “no” to me and let me have whatever I want or children want, and always bail me out (I know this sound pathetic because I am a well educated woman) at the end of the month.  I know I have it good and took advantage of it because my husband has a great job, but since his company is not bringing in as much as it used to I was faced with … CUTTING back!

I always had intentions of cutting back and spending less, but I always needed something for the house or the kids or the dogs or myself, and etc — I know I have little to no self-control.  As a stay home mom I spend lot of time outside of home (funny … stay home to stay away from home) running errands, and having play-dates at the mall since we have an awesome kid’s play area. 

By the time the play-dates end we, mom (with our kids), start roaming the mall to see what is on sale … buying things we don’t really need.  For instance, buying a new shirt because it is on sale knowing fully that your children’s closets and drawers are filled with clothes they haven’t even worn yet. 

Like my husband says all the time … it is easy to spend money, but hard to make money.   

In this particular blog, Saving Money: Part 1, I am going to write series of processes I went through to make it work for me and my family; in other words, how I took part in being a true-adult.  I am not a professional financial wizard or financial life coach (even though I do have a master’s degree in economics … what shame that my professional training can’t reason with my habits), but steps I took to control my habits without feeling “deprivation.”

Saving or taking control of your financial life doesn’t have to be a burdensome or create resentment, but self-worth.

If you are one of those people who have their finances under control or know the tricks and recommendations please share with the rest of us through Saving Money: Part 1.  I am always up for productive advices to achieve my goals.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Makeup Vanity

I finally have a dedicated vanity area to put my makeup on in the mornings!  Yeah, for me!!!

  I have always utilized my bathroom to apply makeup and do my hair; however, our bathroom was starting get really cluttered with my makeup bins, hair accessories, lotions, hair dryer, flat and curling irons, and etc.  It looked more like a single girl bathroom rather than a master suite bathroom for a married couple to share (because there was no sharing going on here).

My poor husband never complained, and all of his stuff was shoved deep high into one drawer under the sink.  He is such a good man, and I just love him to pieces!

So, after over a decade of marriage, I finally decided I was old enough to have a dedicated area for my things; however, I just couldn’t believe how expensive these tables were.  I know $150 isn’t probably much to many of you, but I just couldn’t, with a good a conscious, stash out this much money for a makeup table. 

I searched online stores, local classified ads, auction sites, and brick-and-mortar stores, but I couldn’t find a decent looking set for my set budget.  I know you are going to laugh here, but my budget was $25 and I was even willing to go up extra $5 if I really loved it.

You might think I am being silly to have such low budget, but I purchased two captain chairs (to go with my existing formal dining room set) for $25 each.  The chairs were brand new (from an expensive furniture store) and the chairs are beautifully carved with ornate detailed works … it really is stunning, and I never thought I could ever afford chairs like these. 

Anyway, the chairs are 100% solid wood – no particle boards or veneers or anything like that … it is so solid that it’s very heavy to lift (in comparison to todays off the shelf furniture).  The original price on the chairs were $380 each, but since they had only three chairs left the manager discounted to get rid of it ASAP – that is whopping 93.42% price reduction or $355.00 in saving! 

So, now you can understand why my $25 budget was more than reasonable. 

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anything I really loved.  I found a used vanity table for $35 but did not come with a bench, and found another used set (table and matching bench) for $50 but was painted poorly with a white paint, and finally found another one (which was an antique) for $20 but it had old furniture smell I couldn’t just ignore.  I just had to think about a makeup vanity alternative solution.

Just a little advice (things I personally experienced and steps I had taken) about buying old antique with strong “woodsy smell” furniture is that sometimes you can eliminate it just by airing it out or placing a box of baking soda or cleaning it with furniture cleaner, but sometimes only option you are left is to paint it or completely sanding off existing finish before re-staining.

 Sometimes putting extra TLC is worth it.  Honestly, you can’t get that kind of furniture quality (or materials) these days anymore unless you have the dough to pay for it; however, make sure you weight the benefits with cost.  Don’t just get flimsy cheap furniture that you don’t even love for $5 and put extra $50 (plus labor) … the math with not add up; you know what I mean?

Back to my vanity … I couldn’t find anything worth spending my money on it; so I decided to buy a computer desk and use it as a vanity — an makeup vanity alternative solution.  Since lots of makeup will fall on the surface and water stains will be inevitable I had to look for an easy cleaning surface desk; so I opt for a glass-top computer desk. 

Computer Desk

I saw a glass-top desk for sale on our local classified section for only $10.  It was in a great shape, no scratches or dents, but only thing it lacked was drawers for storage.  However, since drawer issue was really minor I decided to put my plastic storage tower, which I already had it in the house, under the desk and put all of my “junk” in there.

Furthermore, since I had extra chairs in my basement storage room and a oval black framed mirror, collecting dust, I brought it up and used it as my makeup vanity chair and mirror.  Guess what?  There are perfect match!!!

It’s just the perfect height and there is sufficient working surface area, and most importantly it is so easy to clean up; especially if you are using powder foundation.  I can’t be any happier!  This area is my own little space to put on my makeup in peace, and our master bathroom is really clean and clutter-free.

So, if you are looking for a makeup vanity alternative solution to a makeup vanity table then think about utilizing a glass-top desk.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Raise your hand if you like free stuff?  Ok … don’t literally raise your hand, but who doesn’t like free stuff; right?

I am generally frugal when I shop clothes for the family, or buying groceries – coupons and sales are my friends.  Generally, I would save about $50 per shopping trip between store discounts and manufacturers coupons.  Honestly, I don’t know how those women/families do it on TV where they only pay 10% of their total grocery bill.

Well … I have a theory.  If you look very carefully some of these families stock up on things they don’t need right away (within 6 months) or will not need/use (they just have it because they were on sale).  In one of the “Wife Swap” episodes a coupon driven family had shelves and boxes filled with different shampoos, conditioners and etc because by the time they calculated the coupons it was like they were getting free stuff from the stores. 

I am the last person to say “NO” to free stuff, but when does it end?  If your house looks more like a flea market rather than a home then maybe saying “NO” is OK. 

I fell in this trap until I started running out of room in my pantry and storage area.  Boy … I had so much junk!!  I had things we didn’t use or ever use, or eat.  Honestly, I bought it because it was on sale and I had coupons for it in hopes I would use it EVENTUALLY.

I learned my lesson!  After hours of organizing, cleaning, counting, and evaluating I decided it was time to change the way I shop and stop wasting money on things we didn’t use.  I contacted our local charity organization, and they grabbed numerous boxes of free stuff – at least I know they are going to use it.

With changed my mind set, rather than buying things that were on sale, I bought things we only needed on sale in combination of using coupons.  Yes … I would be paying little bit more money per shopping trip, but I was not wasting money at the end.   At last, my house did not look like a flea market!!

You probably think $50 saving is not much to some of you, but my family has strict dietary needs, and we are somewhat brand loyal because it works best on our skin and hair.  Trust me … we have used substitute products, but did not work as well as the normal brands we use in the house.   By no means we only use expensive brands or organic products either, but we do prefer particular brands (generic or not).

I used to spend way over $2,000 on grocery stores alone (not counting grocery bought at Walmart and Target, and not counting health and beauty products purchased for the family), and my friends couldn’t believe high my household budget was.  Thus, I sat down peacefully and thought of things I bought.

It was simple … I was disorganized.  I didn’t know what I had in home, how much I had, and rather than planning using what I already had I just went out to the store and bought it – AGAIN!

Don’t get me wrong … I am not a hoarder you see on A&E channel … I was just very disorganized.

After few months of hard work I had drastically decreased my spending habits … from $2,000 (plus) to $1,000 to now $800. 

I know you might be judging “what the heck is she talking about?” but it’s a 60% reduction, and we still eat what we were eating before (well, it might be better now because I am cooking almost every day and not feeding the family fast food meals as much).  Moreover, my budget includes health and beauty products too.

My husband can’t believe how much I have changed and I am so proud of myself as well.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

When I think about free samples I automatically think about makeup counter section of the department stores.

I am so naughty!  I go every other week to get couple of samples of perfume, lotion, makeup, and other goodies they give away to their customers.  Honestly, I don’t want to spend lots of money on things, and then later find out if I like it or works on my skin.  I did that before and I had drawers full of cosmetics, perfumes, and lotions. 

Last year I emptied out my makeup drawers (throwing out expired things) and discovered 80% of the products were over half full.  I didn’t finish using them because it didn’t match my skin or made me break out like crazy, or just were out of trend colors. 

I should have returned those products, rather than going out and buying new things, but since I was really disorganized at the time I lost most of the receipts.  Thinking about it now … I think I threw it away along with its original boxes.  Thank goodness I am so less wasteful now!!!

Also, many of the cosmetics I had in my drawers were from free samples I received from the stores and from online stores.

I have a great deal of problem matching my true face foundation color because I have olive/yellow undertones.   To make matters more challenging I like full coverage on my face (I have so many freckles!), and two “brown spots” I gave myself from picking on my zits 7 years ago.  You heard me right … 7 years ago!!!!  I have such sensitive skin, and tend to scar very easily.

So I go to the online stores and get free samples (you just have to pay for the shipping and handling charge) or just buy their sample kits for $5 (plus shipping and handling) for five little jars of foundations.  Usually there are no limits if you buy the kit, but if you just want to receive free samples then the company limits to one kit per household.

Furthermore, these companies also have free samples of eye shadows, blushes, matting powders, and etc – just check it out for fun.

Back to my foundation dilemma … I like to have a natural look on my face.  Sounds little oxymoron; right?  Want to have a look of minimal makeup, but want my entire face covered-up to hide my many imperfections.  I have gotten many free samples of foundation, but nothing ever made me happy to wear it.

I was so desperate at one point that I asked my friends, who were going overseas, to pick up few bottles of foundation for me.  Hmmm … was not a great idea!

So about a year or so ago I tried mineral foundation, and I just fell in love with them.  These products still has some flaws, but the benefits over weights the flaws.  Mineral foundations cover relatively well, just not as what the TV commercial promises, and do not let my face breakout with zits.

Just make sure that you have couple of different foundation shades for your winter/spring look, and your summer/fall look.  Depending on where you live your face-color will vary due to sunlight or tanning bed consumption; so I have three different foundation shades (one for winter, one for summer, and one for early fall season).

Other than that, get free samples and try it out – don’t be embarrassed!  This is why the companies are making these little cute things!!!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

What can I say … I love makeup! 

 I think it’s a girl thing, and I guess never grew out of that.  Marilyn Monroe once said, “I’m very definitely a woman and I enjoy it,” and I believe that makeup is one of the greatest tools to make any woman look and feel beautiful.

If you have read my other blogs you already know I have problems matching my makeup foundation to my skin tone.

You all know that you can go to the department stores and get free makeup samples from the cosmetic counter?  The ladies are generally great, and are more than happy to give you free makeup samples in little plastic containers (usually will last you at least three days) for you to take home.

Did you happen to know that Walgreen stores also have free makeup samples as well?  This caught me totally off guard, but I received tons of free makeup samples.

Truthfully, I accidently discovered this from a lady who was working at our local Walgreen stores … they have tons of free makeup samples behind the makeup counter register. 

As usual I was totally lost and confused to what I should buy (my son running and touching everything in sight), and a very nice lady, working behind the counter, asked me if I want to receive some free makeup samples.  Of course, I said “Yes!”

She gave me foundation packets, travel size mascara, lip glosses, face and hand lotions, makeup removers, and etc.  I think some of them were promotional give away because they were little bit bigger than the “traditional” sample sizes; but heck, it was free.  Also, I picked out coupons as well.  I am a GANSTER; ladies!!

Just remember, they will not hand out samples unless you ask for them – of course, each store will have different quantities, brands, and/or supplies to their customers.  BUT doesn’t hurt to ask. 

Moreover, I love mineral foundation and many of these companies have sample kit for you to try it out.  Many times the initial set (or per order) is free (just have to pay for shipping and handling which is minuet) and the additional sets are around $5; which breaks down to about $1 a piece of sample.

These sample jars are very small, but it will surprise you how much you can get out of them.  Typically, one of these sample jars will last about a week for me (I am a heavy makeup wearer and wear makeup almost everyday).  Also, if you have tons of these small jars left then you can mix and match them to get a custom look.  Never waste!!!

 Furthermore, every time I order these mineral foundations I usually get two to three different samples from the company.  On my last makeup order I received free sample blush and mineral eye shadows.  I really like the company’s business practice model to give out samples because it makes feel special.

I know they are not doing this solely for our purpose and pleasure.  This is a great way for the company to see what color is and will be popular; a market research for them.

With that said, I now have tons of free samples in my makeup drawer, and try out different colors and shades everyday.  Not only I feel refreshed with different looks, but I love the fact that I did not have to spend my hard earn money to collect assortment of beautiful colors.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

There is an old saying “It takes a village to raise a child,” but they never say “The village will give you money to raise a child!”

My husband and I knew from the beginning how expensive it is to raise a child, but I never really realized how much they drain your bank account.  Don’t get me wrong … I wouldn’t change it for the world; they are our life, salvation, gift, and joy in our hearts and lives.

With my first child I was very naïve (first child is always an experiment child – unfortunately; sorry sweetheart!), and self-righteous because I thought my child was the best baby in the world.  With this delusional ammunition in my mind we only provided her with the newest and latest clothes and gadgets for her.  While I shop clothes from Target, for my husband and myself, I went to expensive department stores to pick out the cutest little outfits for our daughter! 

We never bought used things (i.e. second hand stores or hand-me-downs) for her; always purchased expensive clothes, and the newest toys at Toys R Us or handmade specialty stores.  Honestly, there was nothing in this world that was too good for her, and this is one of the main reasons why our first child was so very expensive to raise.

However, with my second child I grew up a little bit and became less conscious of what my child must have, and focused on what my child needed.    I now only shop clothes that is on sale (I usually buy clothes after the season is over), use coupons, and register to receive free baby stuff either online or brick and mortar stores.

I just can’t believe how much free baby stuff I receive from mainstream companies (i.e. Enfamil, Pampers, Huggies, and etc.) … sample products, diapers, formulas, coupons (for other free baby stuff at the store), baby foods, and etc.  I felt like I hit a jackpot!

In addition, just to remind you that free baby stuff is not limited to actual products alone, but there are classes available for you and for your child (mom/child classes).  Depending on where you live there are free gym classes or martial arts classes or dance classes without signing contracts – basically it’s a free trial class(s).

Furthermore, there are many other free baby stuff: i.e. parental tools (support tools or group chats and product recalls, and etc), setting up your very own webpage for your baby to share with family and friends, subscriptions to magazines and book, and etc.

I should have gotten off my high horse and have done this with my first child … we would have enough money saved up to travel the world for a month or two!!!  It’s a learning lesson; if I have not done this then I would not have grown up.

Frankly, many parents justify their behavior (just like myself) by saying “It’s for their child,” but honestly … we do this craziness for ourselves because it makes us feel good.  Everybody parents want their kids to have the very best things, but there is a line where you need to draw … with a big fat black permanent marker!!! 

Just remember, if you are using online websites to receive free baby stuff make sure companies are disclosing information that they will NOT sell your personal information to third parties.  Many times internet users just give out their personal information, by enrolling or signing-up, because these websites entice them with free baby stuff. 

When you are signing up make sure that you have a separate email account just for these purpose, and only give out address (to receive via mail) to reputable companies who’s been in business for a long time.

No matter how careful you are there is great percentage chance that your information will be sold or transferred to other companies … just be careful.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Do you have sensitive skin?

Do you have dark spots and/or have scar(s) on your face?

Have you already tried over the counter micro-abrasion products (i.e. Susan Lucci’s Youthful Essence or L’Oreal or Neutrogena) that were less than what you expected?

Are you reluctant to go see dermatologist to get professional micro-abrasion procedure done that would cost you hundreds of dollars?

Like most you of ladies (and gents) I have similar problems and concerns.  Not only these professional procedures, whether it’s micro-abrasion or chemical peels, are expensive but it’s really not that practical.

I have three dark spots (scars actually) on my face and it drove me crazy for five years.  I have best tried to cover these spots with concealers (from green to peach to lighter shade beige colors) and extra powder makeup; but unfortunately, when people look at my face they automatically think it’s age spots.

I think I can live with these so-called “age spots” on my face, but people careless add additional 5 to 10 years to my age.

I don’t know about you ladies and gents out there, but ever since I reached my thirties everything seems to be falling apart.  It just happened one day … I woke up and looked at my face and asked myself “what the heck did you do to yourself? “

I used to be vibrant, young, and didn’t have wrinkles on my face, but now I have uneven skin pigmentation, freckles to choke a leprechaun, wrinkles around my eyes and forehead, and so on.  I wish I can trade-in my body for a younger and tighter body!  A girl can dream right?

My turning point to see a dermatologist happened when a male sales associate, in the mall, pointed out my “age spots” (even though I thought I have successfully covered it up with my makeup) and said “You must be in your forties!  Why don’t you try one of our products?”  I was in utter shock when he told me that.

The disturbing thing is that not only I am not in my forties, but the spots on my face are not “age spots,” but scars from squeezing my zits too hard until layers of skin came off.  Yes I know … I have a sickness here!

Unfortunately I have my mother’s very sensitive skin – I scar very easily and I hold onto my scars for years.  I am still carrying my scars on my legs, from my teens, when I fell and scraped it – the scraped areas didn’t even bleed, but it’s dark and big – I think you know where I am getting here.

Anyhow … back to my story here.  So I finally had the courage to go see a dermatologist to see my options to get rid of these “spots” and get some advice for my skin.

The technician educated me on my options – micro-abrasion, chemical peels and bleaching creams.  The micro-abrasion and chemical peels were only practical when you buy a package bundle from them because I would save about $100 or so — (six treatments for $600).

But … and there is a but here.

You have to have “touch up” or “maintenance” session every four to six weeks to sustain the “glow” on your face.

I don’t know about you ladies, but I am not ready to have such committed “treatments” every month to maintain my thirties look.

I know I am not in my twenties and I know I will never look like I am in my twenties; and frankly I don’t want to.

There is a famous Chinese proverb “Men grow old, pearls grow yellow, there is no cure for it (HeartQuotes),” and my favorite by an unknown author “do not regret growing older.  It is a privilege denied to many (QuoteGarden).”

Don’t get me wrong here … I want to look my best for my age, but I don’t want to look or try so hard to fool people to think that I am in my twenties.

So with that said I had eliminated the micro-abrasion and chemical peel options for now, thus I went forward to using the Lustra-Ultra (Hydroquinone USP 4%) cream.

Like I have mentioned before I have been using the cream for three weeks now – one application in the morning and the second application before I go to bed; and what a difference!!!

At first my “spots” looked darker and I was really hesitant to continue with the treatment, but the technician told me that I have to use it for couple of months to see the difference.

Thank goodness I continued using it because it really lightened my spots!!!

I no longer have to cover the spots with extra cream concealers or extra powder.  One powder application and bada-boom it’s all covered up!

However, it is important to mention it to you guys, but the applied areas of the skin tend to peel – well, that’s what happened to my skin.  I didn’t really notice the peeling until I put on my powder foundation – boy, it was ugly!  So every morning I scrub my face and my face looks awesome.

I think it’s amazing and the technician was really surprised that my “dark spots” lightened up that quickly – I guess my sensitive skin did have some blessing in the end.

So ladies and gentleman … try the bleaching creams before running to your local dermatologist and spend hundreds of dollars on micro-abrasion treatments or chemical peels.

With that said … I might go take advantage of micro-abrasions in the future.  Who knows … if I win the jack pot soon I might get it done sooner than expected.

Here are some pros and cons – reviews from me and others online.

Pros:

1)    Lightens up the spots – can see the result as soon as couple of weeks

2)    An individual mentioned that it lightened up her dark patches from Melasma

3)    The bottle looks really small, but if you have small areas to take care then it’ll last you forever!   I have three dime size dark spots on my face and all I need is a small dab on very top of the q-tip.

4)    Cream is thick enough that it doesn’t run off

5)    The cream has been working very well with my existing anti-aging face lotion – ProVectin

Cons:

1)    Expensive – our local Walgreens charged me $145 (and some change); however, the company does have mail in rebate of $50

2)    Have to go see a dermatologist/physician to get the prescription

3)    There is no real generic form of this specific bleach cream – there are products that have 4% hydroquinone and sunscreen, but do not have vitamins E and c and some other stuff – So it’s not identical – that’s what my pharmacist told me.

4)    Some say it has a bad smell to it (mine doesn’t smell or I can’t smell it because I use so little on my face).

5)    Hydroquinone is under fire by the FDA

6)    There is no money back guarantee if the cream doesn’t work – on the other hand what other medicine does; right?  If my antibiotics do not work I can’t take it back to the pharmacist and ask for money back and etc.  So I think this negative pointer is flawed.

7)    Individuals with sensitive skin types should test the product before using because it can peel skin off; but I think that’s the whole purpose of it – Not sure.

With all that said … I love it because it has drastically lightened up my scars!!  I would definitely recommend to my friends and family.

Reference:

HeartQuotes: Quotes of the Heart.  http://www.heartquotes.net/age.html

QuoteGarden.  http://www.quotegarden.com/age.html

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Don’t know about you guys, but can you imagine spending $350 for a headphone?  Well … these headphones run between $269.00 to $349.99 — depending on who you order it from.

Like many of you guys I have responsibilities to children, to our spouse, pets, and bills.

I have been so fascinated by the Bose headphones for a while now, but when I checked out the price online I couldn’t believe how much they were asking!!!

I did try few different ear-buds and ear-phones, behind the ear headphones, and traditional headphones, but I have not found a product that suits my need.  I think … as of now I have spent about $30 on them.

The ear-buds made me hear too much (body movements, frictions and etc), the ear-phones made my ears sore, and the headphones were just uncomfortable (especially since I have a huge head).

Anyhow, my husband recently brought home a Sony’s noise-cancelling headphone for $60 (including tax) and I almost killed him when he came home with it.

Not only it cost that much, but I am not a huge fan of headphones!  Did you know there are increasing number of hearing losses among younger generation because of headphones or loud music in the car or tv’s?

According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, “Although 10 million Americans suffer irreversible noise-

induced hearing loss, with 30 million more exposed to dangerous noise levels each day … (Fact Sheet: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Children).”

Kids are attending more music concerts without wearing ear plugs, digital portable players such as MP3 players are so readily available to kids, many games allow kids to use headsets to communicate with other online players when playing video games, and cells phones are common among teens as well.

An “ear specialists say a whisper is 30 decibels and that a normal conversation is 60 decibels.  The sound from an iPod Shuffle has been measured at 115 decibels … that about 25 percent of people using portable stereos had daily noise exposures high enough to cause hearing damage (Fact Sheet: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Children).”

Back to my husband’s purchase … I was about to send him back out to return it, but he is the type of a guy who doesn’t buy stuff often for himself – it’s always for the family.

So, I tried the headphone last night and it is awesome.  I honestly can’t compare our Sony’ to the Bose because I have never tried it and don’t know personally anyone who owns it; but hey, whatever suits their boat.  Maybe I need to have richer friends … what do you guys think?  Haha

Well … with that said … here is a great review I came across, from cnet website by David Carnoy on 6/24/2003, regarding the Bose headphone.

Good:
1)    Super comfortable
2)    Effective noise-canceling
3)    Easy storage since the device folds and comes with its own carrying case
4)    30-day home trial

Bad:
1)    Expensive
2)    Music dies when the batteries die

Bottom line:
1)    Great product
2)    Editors rating – 4 out of 5 stars; average user rating (out of 178 reviews) of 3 ½ star out of 5

Here is a review by Jasmine France (12/5/2008) on Sony’s headphone.

Good:
1)    Affordable
2)    Earpads are soft
3)    Include airline adapter and pouch
4)    Nice looking

Bad:
1)     Headphones tends to chafe
2)    Bass is lacking
3)    Not really effective on noise canceling

Bottom line:
It’s good for traveling, and if you are on strict budget.

I agree with most of what France said about the headphone, but I would like to share what I think about the headphone.

1)     It is relatively light even though it looks heavy and bulky.
2)    It folds for easy storage
3)    Has a long cord; which is awesome because other headphones restricted my movements.
4)    Sound is great; especially since I don’t put the volume too loud – I have very sensitive hearing, but it doesn’t leave a loud ringing in my ears.
5)    Because it comes with the extra large plug thing (sorry don’t know the technical term for it) I let my child use it to plug into the keyboard while they play around.

Now here is the bad part.

1)     It is still kind of expensive for my preference.
2)    It does have the bulky feeling – so I can’t take it with me when I am walking my dogs; so I still use my earphone with my Apple iPod.
3)    The head pieces moves too much when I try to fold it back in.
4)    I personally don’t think it’s ideal using it with your laptop because you have to drag that thing every time you move – I think it’s great for a desk top because you can put it on your desk when you want to take it off.  This is just a personal feeling about the product.

All-in-all I can’t really compare because I don’t use it for reducing noise in the airplane or cars or sleeping or anything like that.  And I don’t use it to play loud music that requires lots of bass support to fully enjoy the music.

I am happy with it, but I would be more happy with it if my husband ONLY paid $20 for it!

Reference:

Carnoy , D. (2003)  Bose QuiteComfort 2.  Cnet reviews.  Retrieved from http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/bose-quietcomfort-2/4505-7877_7-21165521.html 9/1/2009.

Fact Sheet: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Children.  American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.  Retrieved from http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/Noise-Induced-Hearing-Loss-in-Children.cfm  on 9/9/2009.

France, J.  (2008)  Sony MDRNC7 headphones (black).  Cnet reviews.  Retrieved from http://reviews.cnet.com/headphones/sony-mdr-nc7-headphones/4505-7877_7-33352178.html  on 9/9/2009

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

If you guys are thinking about buying a sauna than you NEED to check into infrared saunas.

Infrared Sauna

When my husband was talking about a saunas I was under the impression he was talking about one of those old fashion steam/water saunas or those ones that have heating rocks in them and/or ones with steam coming out of the units and etc.

What the heck do I know about a saunas?  Honestly, owning a sauna was the last thing on my mind.

I used to join Gold’s Gym when I was in college and I did use their sauna facility all the time.  I am not a work out person, and I really don’t like group exercise classes because I was always surrounded by skins young kids with skimpy workout outfits – they just made me look “bad.”

Anyhow … my brilliant husband said we (and yes, he said “we”) need to get a sauna for our health.  Health?  Are you serious?  What the heck is that sauna going to do for our health?

When he told me that I told him to take the dogs for a walk! Or taking the kids to the park!  Or go outside and cut the grass!  Or clean out the garage!  And etc.  Boy, I gave him so many options to get those sweating going.

Sadly … that was not the “fitness exercise” he was looking for.

Okay … back to these infrared saunas.  These saunas use infrared heaters and emit infrared radiant heat.  Apparently, these saunas are better for people because this type of heat is directly absorbed into the human body; unlike traditional saunas where the heat heats the body indirectly through air or steam.

Wiki described the infrared saunas:

“An infrared sauna is usually a small portable room containing several infrared heaters.  In an infrared sauna, the infrared heater produces

Infrared vs. Traditional

radiant energy, which is the same as the heat from the sun, only without the harmful ultraviolet rays.  Most of these heaters draw on technology developed in 1965 by Dr. Tadashi Ishikawa, a member of the Research and Development Department of Fuji Medical (Wiki).”

Moreover, infrared sauna’s benefits include, but are not limited to …

1)     Heat penetrates more than 1.5 inches into the body
2)     Increase circulation in the body
3)     Benefits to patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondlitis – decrease pain and stiffness, decrease fatigue, and etc
4)     Some websites claim that these saunas will help you with weight loss; but I think it’s a BS
5)     Helps out with acne
6)     Detoxifies your body
7)     Helps treat bronchitis

Also … it’s relatively cheap to run these saunas — according to our sauna’s manufacturer it uses same amount of energy as a household toaster.

It’s important to mention that there are so many “benefits” to the infrared saunaS, but I am little bit skeptical about “ALL” the benefits that some websites promises and claimes.

Well it’s been couple of months now since we bought the sauna, and we have used it every other day.  I have noticed that my face skin seems to be cleared out – the blackheads on my nose seems lighter.

However, it has interfered with my overall skin textures – I keep on getting little bumps/zits on back of my arms and side of my legs.

I have not called my doctor about the conditions, yet, but it’s not so bad that I have to stop using it.

I am going to use it couple of more weeks to see if there are some correlation between my general skin texture and the sauna.

I will keep you guys up-to-date about the sauna.

——————————————————————————————–

Reference:

Infrared sauna.  Wikipedia: the Free Encyclopedia.  Retrieved 7/6/2009 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared_sauna

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Trying to find an affordable, yet “appropriate,” floors for basement is very difficult; especially when the most logical materials for the basement is SO expensive.

We have concrete subfloor or concrete basement (pardon my technical terms if I misuse it) so there were very limited flooring options for us.

We do currently have carpet in the basement (it’s only year and a half years old), but between the kids and the animals (dragging in dirt and God knows what), and the nature of basement (dampness) it made our living space almost unbearable for me – dirt and smell.

Unfortunately, I have been cursed with acute sense of smell.  Since I can smell everything and anything, for good or bad, the smells are amplified by ten folds for me.

According to Home Construction & Improvement website, “Whether … basement is fairly new or old … Concrete basements by nature are a very damp environment … has a moisture content of between 2% and 8% … (Todd).”

In Todd’s opinion he does prefer ceramic or porcelain tiles, but you can still use engineered wood floors and carpet (only if basement has history of being dry).

However, when I did talked with local contractors and flooring “experts,” tiles are not great solutions for the basement because if concrete floor cracks (guess, eventually most concrete subfloors will have crack lines due to moisture) it will transfer the problems to the grout and tiles on top.

If I understood it correctly, having tiles in small areas are fine (e.g. around the bar areas or entrance/exit areas by the door and etc), but trying to lay tiles on over 1500 sq. ft areas is not a great option for basement floor.

Laminate wood floors are not viable option for us because of the price and durability.  Even though laminate floor are known to be durable if possible scratches were to happen by animals (we have very destructive dogs – I don’t even want to go into this topic because if I do I will give those dogs up!) or kids you cannot sand it down and fix it  – basically, you will have to live with damages.

Also, even though laminate floors will be glued down for us, if dogs were to urinate or kids were to drop liquid onto the floor there are possibilities of liquid going through the joint lines.  Actually, my cousin has installed laminate floor in his basement and I have noticed joint lines showing up more and more – don’t know it’s due to moisture in the basement or his puppies leaving accidents or what?  Didn’t really ask.

So, with that said.  I did receive numerous estimates for my basement floor (including materials, removal of carpet, fixing up holes and things, and installation) for tile and laminate wood flooring.

Remind you that I only chose these options to share with you guys because of the price.  There were many other flooring options, but they wanted over $9,000 for the basement (no glue or installation or  taxes included) !!!  Forget that!

Lowes wanted $4485 (not the best line I remind you) for the materials plus $2385 for installation; total of $6870 without price of the glue, taxes, and etc.

My local store said they would do it for $6500 (including glue, installation, and glue).

For tiles I found a company who would lay the tiles for me for $5000 or so; but these tiles are ugly!!!

I came home very disappointed, and my husband asked me “why don’t we put vinyl?  Honestly, I was shocked and applaud by his comment.  Come on vinyl floors?  They are so ugly!

Even with such reservation I went along with him to the store to look for vinyl floors.

Wow, vinyl floors have come along away.  When you probably think about vinyl floors you are probably thinking about floor your parents had in their kitchen or entry way and etc.

However, vinyl floor come in many styles and pattern – it’s endless.

Anyhow, we were educated with FiberFfloors made by Tarkett Company.  You might be asking what the heck is FiberFloor?

Well, FiberFloor is a resilient flooring with “… convenience combining the comfort of carpet with the easy maintenance of resilient flooring (Flooring Trends).”

These floors are easy to install and clean, comes in endless patterns and color (look of wood to slate), it’s cushiony and warm to underfoot, flexible and bendable, indentation resistant, reduces impact noise and sound, will not expand, contract, crack or curl, engineered to lay flat and stay slat, glueless installation, and consumers only need to measure the room, cut and lay.

If you do hire a professional to lay such flooring they “heat glue” the seams so the vinyl floor looks like a one huge piece – you will not see any seam lines.

After learning about this product I just fell in love with the bamboo look FiberFloor.  The product usually cost $3.50 sq ft, but we got such great deal from the local flooring store — $1.85.

So … even with installation fee, removal of carpet and other materials to finish up the floor we are actually going to pay couple of thousand dollars less than laminate and ceramic tiles.

I just can’t wait to get the flooring next week!

——————————————————————-

Reference:

Flooring Trends.  Flooring-trends.com  Retrieved on 4/4/2009 from http://www.flooring-trends.com/fiberfloor.html
Todd.  Basement Flooring Options.  Homeconstructionimprovement.com  Retrieved on 4/4/2009 from http://www.homeconstructionimprovement.com/2008/07/basement-flooring-options.html

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Online coupons!!

Am I the only person in the world having problems with online coupon services?

Economy is in trouble, and like most of you our pocket books are getting squeezed as well – it seems like we are getting punched every which way.

I am now starting to look through grocery store advertisement pamphlets that come in the newspaper, and started to jot down things that are on sale – going to the stores to purchase “on-sale” items only.

Guess roaming through the store to just fill up the shopping cart days are clearly over.  Don’t get me wrong I still do buy things that are not on-sale (sorry, I am not that discipline), but I need to start saving money here and there.

About a year ago or so I used to load up a cart with grocery, and would probably pay around $250 to maximum of $300 – reminds you that this included basic staple items as well as “luxury” items(not on sale) that would last us for five days or so.

However, when I went to the store to get grocery for the week I spent over $350!!!  AND I didn’t really spend money on the luxury food items!

When I say luxury items I mean beef jerky, Haagen-Dazs, conveniently packaged snacks , filet mignons, leg of a lamb, imported cheese or specialty cheese, deli meats (where you pay $8.99/lb for turkey meat), and etc.

So, when I came home I searched through bags of grocery, and studied my receipt to see what I bought from the store — I couldn’t find anything overly “shocking.”

I didn’t buy the top of the line meat selections, bought generic ice cream cones for the kids, bought large bags of cookies and pretzels (so I can pack them in individual snack bags to save money), stocked up on canned sauces (tomato pastes, sauce, and etc), bought fruits that were on sale for $1.99/lb or less, and etc.

From the receipt, it was $1.99 here, $0.59 here, $1.45 there, but when I added up the receipt it was closed to $350!

I couldn’t believe it – when did food get THAT expensive? 

With this shocking revelation I decided to subscribe to online coupon “stores” – coolsavings.com, Pillsbury.com, clipngocoupons.com, and coupons.com.

Unfortunately — I guess I am an idiot — I couldn’t get those coupons to print even after installing the printer software onto my computer.

I followed every step carefully, but no success!

Here are the problems I have encounter.

In the Coolsavings.com website, I couldn’t complete the printing process – menu to install printer function did not function … so, it was in idle mode.

In clipngocoupons.com, even after I sign in as a member, I kept getting the survey page – come on, I already did that!

With coupons.com and Phillsbury.com sites I did successfully pick the coupons I wanted, but even though it said “print successful” my printer didn’t print out the coupons – yes, I did check if my printer was on and there were sufficient amount of ink.

So .. to make sure my printer was working properly I did print couple of pages of documents; which was successful (but not the coupons).

Bottom line – my attempt to shop “smarter” didn’t quite work well.  I guess I am going to cut out coupons that come in the newspaper.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

My neighbor and I were talking this morning about mosquitoes; exciting conversation right?

Anyhow her house backs up to a ravine, but they had little (almost minimal) problem dealing with mosquitoes last year.

Granted they have a screen porch in the backyard I see them all the time playing with their children and dogs outside on the grass – same time we are outside enjoying the summer days.

We spray on insect repellants, burn candles, wear “protective” clothes (light long sleeved shirts) and etc., but we are still eaten ALIVE!!!
I don’t know what to do anymore!

I saw a segment, in one of those HGTV shows, about mosquito misting spray or MistAway Systems where the company strategically places each misting nozzle sprays to create a “dome” or “shield.”

Mosquito Mist Away System is an automated system to control insects like spiders, mosquitoes, gnats, fleas and flies.

These nozzles are installed around the perimeter of your house (e.g. fence lines, decks, on trees, flowerbeds and etc.) to give most efficient and effective protection of your family.

I would love to have this system installed around our fences (so we can REALLY enjoy our backyard), but unfortunately I couldn’t find local companies offering such services around us – poor me!

Also, I couldn’t find the average cost of installing such device – I am not asking for an exact number, but the general idea of what would cost me.

SO … since I didn’t win the lotto, and the money tree I have planted last year didn’t grow so well I opt for cheaper alternative ways to control mosquito infestation.

Last night I searched online to see our local nurseries carry citronella plants, and found bunch of information about natural (and effective) ways to repel mosquitoes.

This is basically what I learned …

Pelargonium citronellas are known as the mosquito plant and looks like lemon grass

Citronellas are also known as cymbopogon nardus

There are citronella scented geraniums in the market – works very well against those pesky insects

There are other alternative plants:
1.    Horsemint — grown in most eastern US, Mexico, and up to Minnesota to Vermont
2.    Herbs like Rosemary are natural mosquito repellants
3.    Marigolds
4.    Ageratum — contains coumarin; which mosquitoes detests, but don’t rub it against your skin
5.     Mosquito plant — lso known as agastache cana or Texas hummingbird mint or bubblegum mint, or giant hyssop or giant hummingbird mint
6.    Catnips — most powerful mosquito repellant – 10 times more effective than DEET; but short lived perennials

I have also read, from online reviews, that these plants don’t work or doesn’t work that well against mosquitoes.

Apparently, Pelargonium citronella plant(s) must be shaken by the wind to distribute the citronella fragrance, and all the other plants’ leaves must be crushed to release their aroma – that’s the trick.

You just can’t have these plants on the table or plant stands or in baskets to repel these blood thirsty insects – you have to initialize the repellant process by releasing the plants aroma.

I guess it’s really not that difficult to do.  Hey, if I get five less mosquito bites a night I’ll crushed those dang thing for hours.

Reference:

Johnson, S.  Mosquitoes in Your Garden? Try Planting These!  thefrugallife.com
Retrieved on 4/1/2009 from  http://www.thefrugallife.com/mosquitoesgarden.html

Plantfiles: citronella grass, Nardu, Capim Santo Cymbopogon nardus.  Davesgarden.com  Retrieved on 4/1/2009 from http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/62172/

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I hate mosquitoes!!!!!!!!

I can live with mosquito if and only if they bite me on soft flesh areas — my legs and arms, but they always bite me on my knees or toes or on my knuckles.  It is impossible to scratch to satisfaction, and the itch electrifies through every nerves of my body.

If you haven’t been bitten on those areas I have mentioned you are truly LUCKY as heck; however, if you have than you know what I am talking about.

Last year alone we have spent over $350 on buying and stocking up on Cutter’s Citronella candles (the large bucket ones) for pest control purpose– we usually burn the candle around 4 o’clock at night and just let it burn through the night—we are constantly in and out of the house constantly (kids playing and taking the dogs out to their business).

SO .. I recently went t our local Walmart store and saw the employees stocking up spring items onto the shelves – seeds, plants, gardening equipment, and of course, citronella candles!!

I couldn’t believe it – the company drastically reduced the size of the product!

Honestly, I think it’s about the half of the size as the ones I bought last year for the same price.  I know the times are tough, the economy is not that great, and many companies are using different strategies (price increase or less amount of goods in product for the same price as before or minimizing substitutes, and etc) to sustain their product sales; but come on – they didn’t even bother to “trick” us!

According to Lennon – editor in chief of The Daily Anchor, “… companies decreasing the size of their products in grocery stores while maintain the same price, effectively raising prices on the sly (Groceries: Same Prices, Less Product).”

For instance, Kellogg’s breakfast cereals from 14.5 oz to 12.1 oz, Edy’s Ice Cream from 1.75 quarts to 1.5 quarts, and Purina One dog food from 20lb to 18 lb.  In another words, food is getting more expensive!

One of the main reasons why companies are choosing this creative marketing strategy is to avoid layoffs, and keep their balance book in check.

The bad thing about this is that they are deceiving their consumers – their bread and butter!  American consumers might be many things, but we do not like to be deceived – it’s big no-no in my book; don’t know about you guys.

Here is another excerpt from marketplace.publicradio.org:

With the price commodities going up this year Luby says shrinking containers might be the lesser of three evils. The other two being cheaper ingredients, which would change the taste of your peanut butter, or alienating even the most loyal consumers with higher shelf prices. Now, Skippy is made by Unilever, a food conglomerate that also put a dent in the bottom of Hellmann’s mayonnaise and shrank your carton of Breyer’s ice cream. No one there would go on tape but when I raised the deception question, a spokesman said the new weight is clearly marked on the package. And Frank Luby says the per ounce and per pound labels on the grocery shelf really help.

Spending same amount of money to get les – it’s really hard to swallow, but what can you do right?

I have become more aware of “price/oz” labels, and I shop strictly with that information – it does make shopping so much easier.  I would pay little bit more initially for a bigger product, but at the end it comes out cheaper – if you go by price/oz information.

Reference:

Lennon, A.  The Daily Anchor.  Retrieved on 4/1/2009 from http://www.thedailyanchor.com/2009/02/18/groceries-same-price-less-product/

Less product, same price.  Marketplace: American Public Media.  Retrieved 4/1/2009 from http://marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2009/01/08/pm_deceptive_packaging/#fbFormContainer

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/