How Wool Dryer Balls Really Work to Save Money and Protect Family Health
/73 Comments/in Health and Beauty, Laundry /by Mary HuntYou know, commercial fabric softeners can be sneaky troublemakers, causing more harm than good. But here’s the good news: wool dryer balls work wonders, softening clothes, slashing drying time, and kicking those harmful chemicals to the curb. Trust me, once you switch, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
A previous post on why laundry softening products are a real problem continues to resonate with thousands of readers. I know because of your many relating your experiences and testimonials about switching from problematic laundry softeners to wool dryer balls.
Dear Mary: My husband and both of my children have chronic skin problems. One doctor diagnosed them with eczema, but curiously nothing, including prescription medications, have brought lasting relief. We have spent a small fortune going from one dermatologist to another not to mention all of lotions, potions and other medications prescribed. Not once did any of these professionals suggest they might be allergic to laundry softeners. When I read Commercial Fabric Softeners are the Problem (Here is the Solution), a lightbulb went on.
I’m a serial softener user. For years, I’ve used liquid softener and dryer sheets just to make sure. How could I have not thought about this? It made a lot of sense that they could be allergic to this stuff. I wasted no time getting the wool dryer balls you recommend. I gave up softener products cold turkey and began using the dryer balls instead. I was like a crazy woman washing and re-washing clothes and bedding. I got three gallons of white vinegar to make sure I had enough to add to every rinse cycle.
Within two weeks we began to see a change. The rashes, itching and horrible skin issues began to calm down. Within three weeks the change was amazing. As I write, I would say my kids and husband are finally free of this awful situation. As embarrassed as I am that I never considered this might be the problem, I am more grateful and happier than you can imagine. Thank you so much for all you do to improve our lives. That column changed our lives and we are forever grateful. Gina
The trouble with commercial fabric softeners
The National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that the perfumes and additives in laundry products may cause skin problems. Fabric softeners are allergenic and can cause eczema, which appears as dry, itchy skin.
Dryer sheets contain fragrance and volatile organic compounds like acetaldehyde and butane, which can cause respiratory irritation. Fabric softener chemicals known as quaternary ammonium compounds have been linked to asthma. Acetone, also used in dryer sheets, can cause nervous system effects like headaches or dizziness.
Fabric softeners are also known to reduce and finally eliminate the effectiveness of water-resistant materials and reduce the absorbency of terry cloth and microfiber towels.
If you find your towels aren’t drying as well after a few cycles with fabric softener—liquid softener in the washer and/or dryer sheets in the dryer—it’s time to find a better alternative that will give excellent results, cost less, and all without doing harm.
Why use wool balls in the clothes dryer?
Wool dryer balls reduce wrinkles, speed up drying times, and soften clothes. They are the best alternative to commercial fabric softening products, such as liquid fabric softener added to the last rinse cycle in the washing machine and dryer sheets in the clothes dryer.
These things look like overgrown tennis balls. They’re made of 100% wool yarn, which over time becomes “felted*,” making them incredibly durable and not at all prone to unraveling.
One set of quality wool dryer balls will last what seems like forever, softening hundreds of loads of laundry—no batteries, refills, repairs, or reconditioning required. It’s one (purchase) and done!
*Felting is a process that causes a natural fiber felting yarn, like wool, to fray slightly and fuse to the other fibers around it, creating a more solid fabric-like appearance.
How do wool dryer balls work?
Imagine a big load of wet bath towels going into the dryer. You hit “start,” and that massive wad of wet fabric will flop around and stick together for quite a while until the layers become dry enough to separate and allow warm air to circulate. That slows the drying time, wasting time and energy.
Now imagine six wool dryer balls bouncing around (I use my entire set of six in every load), working their way between the layers of fabric, separating them so the warm air can circulate efficiently right from the very start of the cycle.
I’ve tested drying times with and without wool dryer balls, and the results are quite impressive. Wool dryer balls cut at least 25% off the time it takes my clothes dryer to dry a load of laundry, saving time and energy.
I often find these balls stuck tightly in the long sleeves of a tee shirt and the pocket of a pair of jeans. They work their way into tight spaces, and that’s what makes them so awesome.
Because dryer balls also agitate against the fibers in clothes and linens, everything feels softer coming out of the dryer. When used correctly (coming up), they also remove static cling.
How to use dryer balls
Because they need room to bounce and play with wet clothes and linens, dryer balls do their best and fastest work when the dryer is not crammed full. Two medium-sized loads will dry faster and more efficiently than one gigantic load. Dryer balls need room to work. And the more balls you add to a dryer load, the faster they get the job done.
Adding fragrance to a dryer load
Some of you have written saying you really miss the lovely fragrance you had when using dryer sheets. If this is important to you, here are much healthier and better alternatives than dryer sheets.
Solutions
Essential oil. Add a few drops of essential oil to each of the dryer balls. Give them time to absorb the oil deep into the fibers—a few hours is advisable. The more the oils are absorbed into the dryer balls before using them, the more slowly the fragrance will be dispersed in the dryer. You’ll begin to notice a subtle, non-toxic fragrance in your clean, soft laundry. When attempting the essential oil solution, set the dryer to Warm.
Downy Unstopables. Maybe you’ve seen Downy Unstopables (teeny tiny little scent beads) in the laundry aisle. The label directs you to add something like 1/4 cup (!!) to the washer along with your detergent. Oh, NO! That’s way overkill if you are at all sensitive to fragrance.
I’ve experimented with only two (2) of those tiny little beads in the wash load (not the dryer). That load of wet clothes, when added to the dryer along with wool dryer balls, comes out with just the slightest, lightest fresh scent.
Static cling
The biggest complaint I have received from readers is that while dryer sheets would eliminate static cling, the wool dryer balls do not. In fact, reported several (thousand) people, static cling makes these folks want to throw the balls out and go back to the old dryer sheets. Don’t do that! There is an explanation and a simple solution.
Much of the reason static occurs is due to over-drying clothes. You will definitely notice static if the dryer is allowed to run too long, with or without wool dryer balls!
Overdrying wastes gas or electricity and prematurely wears out clothes, as evidenced by all that lint. As you are learning, it also causes static cling—especially on low-humidity, dry winter days.
Another cause of static is synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, rayon, and acrylic. Try to separate synthetics to keep the rest of your laundry static-free. Then either dry the synthetics by hanging them on a line or in the dryer, making sure you end the drying cycle before they are totally dry.
Solution
Here’s what I do because I do not have the time to stand in the laundry room watching and waiting for things not to become over-dried: I spray my wool dryer balls with water (dunking them in a container of water also works), to get them super quite wet. Now the laundry dries faster than the wool dryer balls because they are so dense, elevating the humidity level in the dryer. Works like a charm and does not harm the dryer balls in any way. This method does not seem to increase the drying time, either.
White lint transfer
One thing I noticed early on in my transition from dryer sheets to wool dryer balls was lint. Small bits of white lint showed up on dark-colored clothes even though there were no white items in that dryer load. It didn’t take long to realize that the dryer balls were harboring those bits and transferring them to the dark load.
Solution
I have two sets of dryer balls—one set is white, the other black. It’s easy to see which ones I need to throw into the dryer. Now, any white lint stays with the white dryer balls, and dark lint links with the dark set. Problem solved.
As I update this post, my white set of dryer balls is going on eight years old. I haven’t counted how many loads of laundry they have fluffed and softened, but it’s many.
Manufacturers say one set of quality wool dryer balls is good for at least 1,000 drying loads. That means mine should have plenty of life left in them. It just might be the best money I’ve ever spent!
Resources
Wool dryer balls are readily available in stores like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Here are links to the two sets of quality wool dryer balls I purchased online and have been using for years (during which time I have NOT spent hundreds of dollars on gallons of liquid softeners and cases of dryer sheets!).
Are you crafty?
You can make your own wool dryer balls. Find a tutorial here.
You might also enjoy …
- 5 Ways to Make Safe, Problem-Free Fabric Softener
- How to Make Wool Dryer Balls
- How to Make the Best Homemade Laundry Detergent
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10 Natural Ways to Repel Rascally Rabbits to Protect Your Yard and Garden
/38 Comments/in Home & Family, Outdoors and Garden /by Mary HuntAs adorable as these creatures are, rabbits can wreak havoc on lawns and gardens. Garden centers, home improvement stores, and online resources offer commercial products to help gardeners protect their plants from rabbits. But here’s the problem: commercial repellents are expensive, stink, and some contain chemicals that can pose health hazards to pets.
The solution is to find cheaper options that are effective in getting rid of rabbits that are ruining your lawn and garden.
Rabbit repellents work in two ways to keep rabbits out of your flower and vegetable garden and off the lawn: They produce 1) a smell or 2) a taste that is repulsive for rabbits but without harm. Even better, perhaps, homemade repellents are not only less expensive but offer safe alternatives to commercial repellents.
How to Identify Rabbits in Your Garden
Of the nine species of North American cottontail rabbits, the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) is our most abundant and annoying. Found all the way from Boston to Boulder and south into Mexico, this bunny-about-town is rarely found in forests, preferring instead brushy fence rows, field edges, brush piles, and—how do I know this?—landscaped backyards! Its fondness for flowers, vegetables, bark, and bulbs often results in pruned and clipped gardens and lawns
Even though its nicknames are adorable ( bunny, bunny rabbit, cottontail), the eastern cottontail can be a bothersome pest. It is gray or brownish, with a short tail and big ears. It can weigh 2 to 4 pounds and be 15 to 19 inches in length with a lifespan of 12 to 15 months.
For an eastern cottontail, security is a pile of brush and leaves under my concrete porch floor or another animal’s abandoned burrow. Unlike their European cousins, these rabbits do not dig intricate burrows or “warrens” but make do with what they find.
Rabbits rarely leave their shelters in broad daylight, preferring instead early morning or evening. Like most animals, they are sensitive to the change in day length as spring approaches. For rabbits, the longer days signal the start of two things: spring dining and breeding season.
Speaking of breeding, rabbits naturally have a high reproductive potential. Depending on their region of origin, they can produce about three litters of six kittens. The gestation period for rabbits is just 29 days!
1. Original Irish Spring bar soap
I was surprised to learn that the original Irish Spring bar soap is an inexpensive way to get rid of rabbits. Apparently, to rabbits and other critters (even deer, so I have heard), it has a terrible stench that drives them away.
To turn Irish Spring into an effective repellent, you’ll need these supplies that are readily available in local stores or online:
- Irish Spring bar soap
- Small fabric drawstring bags OR cheesecloth and string
- Wooden stakes (12-by-1-by-1 inches or similar)
- Staple gun or duct tape
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the Irish Spring soap bar(s) into 1/2-inch cubes. These do not have to be exact, but you’ll want many small chunks to treat your entire garden.
Drop two pieces of soap into each drawstring pouch, pull the strings tightly to close, and tie the strings tightly to secure the soap inside. Alternatively, wrap two pieces of soap in cheesecloth, gathering it into a pouch and securing it with string.
Staple or securely tape one pouch to the end of each wooden stake. Drive the opposite end of each stake 6 inches into the ground around your lawn and garden, spacing them from 5 to 10 feet apart. Place stakes closer together in areas with thick vegetation or in spots you’ve noticed often are damaged by rabbits or other animals.
Alternatively, lay the drawstring pouches under and around the vegetation for a more discrete solution.
Monitor the garden or lawn over the course of the next week for signs of damaged or eaten plants. The amount of Irish Spring soap you need to ward off pests depends on the size of your garden and the population of local deer, rabbits, and other animals. Be prepared to add more stakes to target heavily trafficked areas.
Irish Spring soap repels mammal pests, such as mice, rabbits, and deer. It does not repel insect pests, and it does not always eliminate pests completely. However, many have reported excellent results—and I am one. If you’re looking for an effective way to send rabbits away, it’s certainly worth a shot.
2. Household ammonia
Rabbits are dinner for predator animals, so they must be aware of what and who is around them for their survival.
Ammonia is a naturally occurring gas that is a building block for a range of cleaning supplies. The scent of ammonia is similar to the smell of urine that rabbits perceive their predators have used to mark their territory. When rabbits smell the ammonia, they are compelled to move on to another area to avoid whatever animal left its mark behind.
Because of its strong smell, similar to urine, ordinary household ammonia straight out of the bottle makes a great rabbit repellent. You don’t need to figure out complicated formulas or mix a bunch of different ingredients to keep rabbits away.
Household ammonia, located in the cleaning or laundry section of stores or online, will do the trick when used at full strength to get rid of rabbits. That makes it a good choice for gardeners who want a simple, natural solution for their rabbit problem.
Soak strips of old rags in undiluted ammonia, and place them on the trails the rabbits are using to get into your garden. The rags will hold the scent and make life unpleasant for the bunnies.
If you have outdoor pets, you may want to consider options other than ammonia, as some professionals suggest it may be harmful if ingested by curious pets with a weak sense of smell.
3. Garlic hot pepper repellant
Homemade rabbit repellent is a cheap way to keep critters out of your garden. It requires a bit more effort than commercial products, but the ingredients are easy to find and generally inexpensive.
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes OR cayenne powder
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
- 5 garlic cloves, crushed
- Water
- Empty gallon-size container with lid
Peel garlic cloves, smash them, and drop them into a gallon jug. Add dish soap and crushed red pepper flakes or powder. Fill the jug with water and apply the lid. Shake the container to mix the ingredients.
Place the jug in the sun for two days to steep, making sure the water becomes entirely concentrated with the ingredients. Strain through a fine sieve or coffee filter. Dispense using a spray bottle or garden sprayer and apply to plants and areas targeted by rabbits. Reapply every five days.
It will take several weeks to begin seeing results. In case of heavy rain, reapply as soon as the weather clears to ensure that your repellant efforts remain effective.
4. Blood meal, bone meal
Placing blood meal or bone meal (find both in garden centers or online) around plants and along paths has shown some efficacy in controlling rascally rabbits. They find the smell of these products to be repulsive.
As a bonus, both are excellent fertilizers, so your garden will also benefit from this “repellant.”
ATTENTION PET OWNERS
Blood Meal is toxic to cats, and perhaps other pets. Please do your own independent research for your particular pet(s) before attempting blood meal as a deterrent for yard and garden pests.
5. Red pepper powder
Sprinkling dry red pepper powder at the base of plants can protect them from hungry rabbits. You’ll want to find a source that sells it in bulk, such as 1 pound or 3 pounds.
6. Strategic planting
There are ways to repel rabbits from gardens altogether. In fact, certain plants can do the trick. Plants like nasturtiums, garlic, onion, rhubarb, oregano, basil, and geranium are effective at keeping rabbits out of garden beds.
Lavender, snapdragons, and lilac bushes discourage rabbits, and it might be better to look at them and provide fragrance than the other options.
7. Vinegar and corn cobs
Another effective method is soaking corn cobs in plain distilled white vinegar and strategically placing them around your garden to deter rabbits.
Remember to re-soak the corn cobs in vinegar every two weeks for continual efficacy.
8. Motion sprinklers
Thanks to advancing technology, we now have motion-activated water sprinklers designed to deter rabbits and protect gardens from their intrusion.
These automated sprinklers have sensors so that when a rabbit comes into the sensor range, it is activated to harmlessly spray the little critter.
Additionally, sound-emitting sprinklers that function similarly to traditional water sprinklers and can be conveniently installed are available. These motion-activated sprinklers are eco-friendly and readily available for purchase at hardware stores or online retailers.
9. Put up a fence
The best way to stop rabbits from entering your yard is to use physical prevention methods like fencing. Install a strong barrier, such as a chicken wire fence, to stop rabbits and their babies from getting into your yard. It needs to be at least 4 feet high, as rabbits can climb, and they will. Rabbits can also dig, so the mesh or wire grid you select needs to go down into the ground by at least a few inches.
While fencing may be the most labor-intensive option, it will also be the most effective and long-lasting!
10. Get a cat
The presence of dogs and cats will do a good job of pest control. If you have them, let them spend at least part of the day in the garden area. And if your yard is big enough, you might get a cat just to take care of any mice and to keep rabbits away.
In closing
Remember, when embarking on a campaign to get rid of rabbits, give all methods and or products time to work before giving up on them!
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23 Genius Gardening Hacks I Wish I’d Known Sooner, Approved by Experts
/3 Comments/in DIY, Money and Finances, Outdoors and Garden /by Mary HuntSo, gardening on a budget. That may sound like an oxymoron—either you garden, or you live on a budget. But don’t believe it. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to grow a garden that pumps out tasty vegetables. There are many simple ways to have a lush, bountiful garden without emptying your wallet. Whether it’s recycling stuff, mixing up your own soil boosters, or scoring cheap seeds and starter plants, I’ve got you covered with gardening hacks, tips, and tricks to save cash while honing your gardening skills.
My first attempt at growing a vegetable garden was surprisingly successful. And a colossal failure. By the time I added up what I’d spent on plants, tools, fertilizer, supplies, more plants, and different types of fertilizer, I harvested what turned out to be the most expensive tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic on the planet! While my tiny salsa garden was bountiful, it was a financial train wreck.
That entire expensive, labor-intensive effort left a bad taste in my mouth. What’s the point? It ended up costing many times more than the cost of buying the same produce at any grocery store or farmer’s market. With every return trip to Home Depot’s garden center, my enthusiasm waned in direct proportion to the numbers on the receipt. And in the end, I vowed never to do that again.
But things have changed. Over the years since that experience, I’ve mellowed, and determined to learn from gardening experts who actually know what they’re doing. I’ve discovered that gardening on a budget can be a lot of fun, and it’s not difficult when you keep a load of frugal tips and tricks handy for how to garden on the cheap.
Here, for your enjoyment and in no particular order, genius gardening hacks for gardening on a budget that I wish I’d known sooner.
Amazon’s Big Spring Sale: Everything You Need to Know
/0 Comments/in Home & Family, Shopping /by Mary HuntThe Ultimate Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Thoughtful Ideas for Every Budget
/Updated /0 Comments/in Gift Guides, Gifts /by Mary HuntStruggling to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift for the mom who seems to have it all? Don’t stress! Take a look at these simple yet thoughtful ideas.
With Mother’s Day approaching quickly, it’s time to show your appreciation with more than a last-minute card stuffed with a gift card. Treat her to something special, like a soy wax-scented candle or a digital picture frame filled with precious memories.
Consider a heart-shaped necklace that symbolizes the strong bond between mother and daughter for a unique touch. And don’t forget your mother-in-law—she’ll adore plenty of delightful gifts.
Still unsure? Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the ones you create yourself. While you may be her greatest gift just by being there, showing extra love on her special day will surely make her smile.
Gift Ideas Under $15
Gift Ideas Under $30
Slightly Pricier Gift Ideas
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Important Documents Every Family Should Keep to Be Safe Not Sorry
/17 Comments/in Emergency Preparedness, Home & Family /by Mary HuntTake control of your paperwork chaos and be prepared for whatever comes your way. Here is the ultimate checklist of important documents—from personal identification to financial records and end-of-life plans—that every family should keep to be safe, not sorry. Plus, don’t forget to download my freebie checklist PDF to help you stay organized and ensure you have all the necessary documents on hand.
I receive a lot of informative mail from my dear readers, but none can top the letter from Bob Ford about the important documents every family should keep …
Good planning
Meet Bob Ford, Certified Retirement Planner, and volunteer teacher for the Retirement Planning Group of Southern California—an organization that offers free seminars on all aspects of retirement planning.
When Bob began teaching retirement planning he had a relatively short list of important documents he believed every family should keep in a locked safe, deposit box, or home safe with a minimum fire rating of two hours.
When teaching teaches the teacher
Over the years, Bob’s list has grown because, with each class, he learns of another document that, if kept, would have saved someone a lot of time, money, or both.
The list grew and grew …
Each addition Bob has made to his list represents a sad real-life situation that might have been avoided had the proper records been kept. One of those stories follows the list:
- Certified birth certificates for every person in your family
- Certified death certificates for any deceased members, including all details and documentation regarding the death
- Marriage certificates and all specific details for each married member of your family.
- A photocopy of each family member’s current driver’s license.
- Divorce papers for any person in your family who’s been divorced.
- A copy of the letter to all credit card companies telling them you are not responsible for the credit card debts of a former spouse(s) and a certified mail receipt from the credit card company showing the letter was received.
- Naturalization and adoption papers as applicable.
- Each family member’s Social Security card. Carry a photocopy.
- A copy of all child support and alimony awards with complete details.
- Your family Bible if it contains family records.
- Records and documentation regarding any commission in the armed services including discharge and retirement certificates.
- Proof of important payments such as canceled checks for federal, state, and county taxes.
- W-2s and income tax forms.
- Family members’ passports.
- Details and physical location of all your stocks and bonds and the name, address, and phone number of your stockbroker.
- Your account numbers and the amount you paid for each stock and bond (cost basis).
- The location of the original copy of your will and a photocopy of it.
- A videotape of you reading your will with the current day’s newspaper visible to establish the earliest possible date of the video recording
- The names, addresses, and phone numbers of the persons who witnessed the signing of your will.
- The details of anything you received as a result of someone’s will.
- The name and address of the person who will administer your estate.
- All insurance policies that you currently have with the name, address, and phone numbers of your insurance companies and canceled checks that paid the premiums.
- Names, addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers of all former spouses and the length and dates of your marriages.
- The addresses and full names of non-family members who are mentioned in your will.
- The deeds to any real estate you own and the original purchase prices. County records have copies of all of these deeds.
- The escrow papers of all real estate you have purchased or sold.
- The receipts for major repairs to your home.
- All building permits for properties you currently own or have owned.
- Any promissory notes that you own or owe with complete details of the names, addresses, and what and why the transaction occurred.
- The Grant Deed, Trust Deed, and Deed of Full Reconveyance of your real estate.
- The title (pink slip) to all family automobiles.
- The names of any trusts for which you are the trustee and the original trust documents.
- The trustee’s name and address in any trust where you are the beneficiary and a copy of the trust document.
- A separate full-face color photo of yourself, your spouse, and each child with this phrase on the back. This is a picture of (full name and relationship) on (current date)
- A list of all the names you have had in your lifetime, when you had those names plus identification you had when you used the name.
- A copy of any court order that changed your name.
- The complete names of your parents including your mother’s maiden name.
- The names of your biological parents if you are adopted (if known).
- The full details of any children you have given up for adoption.
- The names of all pension plans that you were ever a member including the name of the employer and dates of employment.
- The names and addresses of every place you have ever worked.
- Exterior photos of all sides and yard areas of your house or land.
- Receipts for all furniture, major appliances, or items that cost more than $100.
- The details of any insurance settlements, lawsuits, lottery winnings, or annuities that are or will be paid to you over a period of time.
- The names and details of any partnerships or corporations in which you are a partner or director.
- Photos or a videotape of every room in your home showing the contents of each room including the garage.
- A household inventory which includes the price paid for each item.
- Photos of each of your automobiles, both interior and exterior.
- A record of inoculations for each member of your family.
- The specific location of all family medical and dental records.
- College diplomas, transcripts, and awards for each member.
- Any patents you hold.
- Details of any accidents you’ve had, a copy of the police report, and the claim number of any insurance settlement.
- The serial number of all guns, appliances, or items you own which have serial numbers.
- A copy of the fingerprints of each of your children, yourself, and your spouse.
- The name and address of every entity that sends you a pension check
- Anything that says Pay to the Bearer (bonds, checks, etc.)
- The address, account number, and phone number for each credit card account.
- A full description of anything stolen from you, the date, and value.
- The blood type of yourself, your spouse, and each child.
- The details of any major surgery including the doctors, the name and address of the hospital, the name of the manufacturer or any medical device implanted, where it was implanted, who implanted it, and why.
- A copy of anything that has your notarized signature.
- A photocopy of medicare cards.
- Cash and expensive gems (not recommended for home storage).
- Pictures and other objects that have great sentimental value.
- Negatives of important photos.
- Any licenses, permits, or certifications of family members.
- Copies of any contracts or agreements you have signed.
- Your instructions (Health Directive) regarding life support systems signed and dated.
- An appraisal and photo of anything that has unusual value.
- The release of liability from all contractors that worked on your house.
- All warranties and receipts for things you have purchased.
- The buyers’ names, addresses, license numbers, and copies of bills of sale regarding automobiles.
- Details about and photos of anything that is one of a kind and cannot be replaced.
- The location and details about ammo and firearms. They are very dangerous in a fire.
- All service contracts and the phone number to call for service.
- The details regarding any illegitimate children you have had.
Steady, pal
Before you fall out of your chair having just slogged through this very long list, realize that not every person would have every one of these items as each of our life situations are very different. But let this inform each one of us of the need to keep good records, recall those events we’ve forgotten and documents we may have lost, and then stay on top of things going forward.
Too eccentric?
Do you think such detailed records and organization given to us by Bob Ford are a bit eccentric? I’m sure a man we’ll call John Doe did, too. Here’s his true story …
Meet John Doe
John died about five years before receiving the letter from Bob. Mr. Doe’s Will was still in probate.
John Doe was a prominent member of the community, an elder in his church, and even had a wing of the church named for him. He’d had a private audience with the Pope and his picture taken with several U.S. presidents, including President Reagan from whom he also had a personal, hand-signed letter.
John had a well-known dislike for lawyers. Rather than pay for legal advice in writing his Will, he drafted it himself—in his own handwriting, on a single sheet of paper.
And then he died
Upon his death, Doe’s estate was worth $20 million. His holographic Will read:
“I leave each of my children $3 million and the rest of my estate to my wife.” John had 4 children.
Soon after his death, the Will was, by law, filed with the probate court, which made it a public document. Only days before probate was complete, Bill Jones (not his real name) contested John Doe’s Will. Bill claimed he was John’s son and demanded his $3 million.
Outraged!
John’s family was outraged because John had been married to only one woman for 40 years. After all kinds of legal proceedings, Bill got the probate judge to order John’s body exhumed and DNA tests run to determine if John was Bill’s father. To everyone’s surprise, the results were affirmative.
Because, according to John’s Will, he left “$3 million to each of his children” and Bill was John’s son, the family agreed to give him $3 million. Of course, this amount would come from the wife’s share of the estate.
Then there were three
Just before the revised Will was to complete probate, there were two more contestations of the Will by two women also claiming to be John’s progeny.
They hired Bill’s lawyer to help them prove their position in the will. Over the family’s objections, John’s body was again exhumed for DNA samples (apparently, they didn’t get enough DNA the first time around?) and they, too, were found to be John’s children.
Stalled
That is where the case stands now. If you do the math, seven people cannot receive $3 million each from a $20 million estate with anything left for the wife. And who will pay the legal fees? What a mess.
It could have been simple
If John had included complete information in his Will giving the three children not from his wife $1 each, much pain and suffering could have been avoided. If he would have put his property in a Trust, none of this would have become public.
The pain and embarrassment John thought he was sparing his wife before his death was nothing compared to what she’s suffered by having John exhumed twice and then seeing every detail being made public and reported in the local newspaper.
I realize this story is extreme, but it got my attention and I’ll bet it gets yours, too. Now is the time to get our important papers organized and into a safe place.
How to get started
Good preparation is about the best and cheapest insurance available.
Births, deaths, marriages, divorces, deeds, wills, and bankruptcy filings are examples of matters of public record. Each of these events is recorded in the Office of the County Recorder where the event occurred. You can call, write, or go online to contact that office for specific information on how to obtain certified copies of your important documents. Prepare for a long haul. Let patience prevail as this kind of research can get complicated. Just don’t give up.
Get a safe
Bob Ford recommends a home safe with a minimum fire rating of 2 hours. While you have many choices, this is the home safe I own, and highly recommend.
Additionally, consider this safe specially designed for documents to ensure optimal protection.
Overwhelmed?
If Bob Ford’s list has thrown you into a state of overwhelm, I get it. Me, too! What follows is a more straightforward list, that while extensive, should help both of us get our heads around what we need to do.
Personal Identification Documents
- Social security cards
- Birth certificates
- Passports
- Copies of driver’s licenses or identification cards
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Adoption papers
Other Legal Documents to Keep
- Vehicle registrations
- Military ID
- Military discharge paperwork (DD 214)
- Veteran’s identification card
Important Medical Papers to Keep in Your Files
- Health insurance cards and policies (including prescription insurance)
- Vaccination records
- Important medical records from major hospitalizations or surgeries
- Medical bills – especially if you claim medical expenses as deductions on your taxes
- Vaccination records for pets
- Documentation relating to disabilities
- Medical power of attorney
Financial Documents
- Tax returns for the past 7 years
- Receipts for items that were claimed on your taxes – You’ll need to keep these for 7 years also.
- Other official IRS forms that relate to your tax returns – Other forms to keep include things like W-2 forms, 1099’s, etc.
- Correspondence from the IRS like letters they’ve mailed you about tax credits, etc. – I would much rather have these on hand and not need them than need them and not have them.
- Bank and credit card statements – I use these to help with tax preparation each year.
- Documents for retirement accounts – 401K, IRA, etc.
- Documents for investment accounts – stocks, bonds, mutual funds
Insurance Papers
Most insurance companies send a new policy for each annual renewal (either paper copies through the mail or digital copies through email). For my insurance paperwork, I shred the old policy each time I get a new one. That way, I don’t have past policies cluttering my filing drawers.
Here are some insurance papers to keep:
- Home owner’s insurance policy
- Car insurance policy
- Life insurance policy
- Insurance policies for other assets like boats or RV’s
Education and Work-Related Papers
- Military service records
- College transcripts
- High school/college diplomas
- Certificates for special work trainings you’ve completed
- Letters or emails with recommendations or accolades – For instance, when a customer at one of my past jobs wrote an email to my boss expressing her satisfaction with my service, I kept the email with my other work-related documents. This can make a great reference in the future.
End-of-Life Documents
- Last will and testament
- Living wills
- Trust
- Powers of attorney
- Funeral home contracts (if applicable)
- DNR orders (if applicable)
- Death certificates
- Documents relating to beneficiaries
- Documents relating to cemetery plots
- Organ donation directives
Download your essential checklist of important documents
Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! To make things easier for you, I’ve created a handy PDF download of this checklist that you can keep for reference. It’s the perfect companion to help you organize your important documents and ensure you’re prepared for anything life throws your way.
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DIY Tulip Muffin Liners: A Genius Hack for Perfect Muffins Every Time
/3 Comments/in DIY, Food and Recipes, Home & Family /by Mary HuntAn ingenious solution for a paper muffin liner shortage: crafting DIY tulip muffin liners. This is your ticket to flawless muffins every time. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and discover the secrets that will have you baking like a pro in no time (remember: just stick to the recipe).
Alright, so picture this: I’m about to spill all my muffin-making secrets that’ll have your friends and family dubbing you a baking genius. But before we dive into that, let me share a little Saturday morning mishap from when I was in the middle of making a fabulous—if I do say so myself—brunch.
I was all ready to fill the muffin cups with batter when I remembered that I’d used every last one of my cupcake paper liners. Now, heading to the store wasn’t on my agenda. And let me tell you, muffin batter is not the most patient companion. If you don’t hustle it into the oven right after stirring in those wet ingredients, it starts giving you the side-eye.
Frugal vs. Fancy: The Great Debate Over Tulip Muffin Papers
I wanted to kick myself because I’d planned to splurge and order these very nice Tulip Muffin Papers online, but at the last minute felt myself choking at the price: $29.95 plus tax and $9.95 shipping for 250 papers—about $.25 each. Seriously, who wants to spend as much on the liners as they do on the muffins themselves?
So there I was, torn between splurging and sticking to my frugal guns. Let’s just say, hindsight’s 20/20, and in that moment, I was really kicking myself for not hitting that “order” button.
Back to My Muffin Liner Dilemma
I really do not like to bake muffins in a muffin pan without paper liners. The batter tends to flow onto the pan as the muffins rise, making them unsightly and difficult to remove. And then once removed to cool, their poor little bodies are all exposed, which makes them get all dried out and crusty well before their time.
In that moment of frustration, a thought sparked: What if …
Now, I have to admit, my photography skills leave much to be desired, but trust me on this: this trick works like a charm. Say goodbye to pricey cupcake paper liners in my kitchen! My DIY tulip papers are in a league of their own—they keep every bit of the muffin snugly contained within the cup. Not even the muffin top dares to make an escape. Plus, let’s not forget the aesthetics—they give off major quaint French bakery vibes.
How to Make Tulip Muffin Liners
Let me walk you through the magic of creating your own tulip muffin liners—it’s simpler than you think! Start with parchment paper cut into 6-inch squares for standard-size muffins. Fold each square diagonally twice to find the center, then mold them over a small can (or a juice glass in a pinch), gently pleating the paper to fit. Because parchment paper is sturdy, it holds this shape very well.
Now, the trick to filling these tulip liners without any messy mishaps is to take it slow. I’ve found that using a disposable cake decorating bag or a gallon-size zip lock bag works wonders. Simply pour your batter in and pipe it into the cups, just like you’re decorating a cake—trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Once baked, these tulip papers make it a breeze to lift your muffins out of the pan. Just grab onto the “ears” and voila! Perfectly contained and ready to enjoy.
And for those who love a jumbo-sized treat, 7-inch squares of parchment do the trick beautifully. Oh, and did I mention the mini-muffin pan? Yes, I made adorable tiny tulip papers for it from 3 1/2-inch squares of parchment formed over an upside-down prescription bottle.
Best part? Parchment paper costs about $.10 per sheet, and you can get 6 regular-size tulip muffin papers from just one sheet, costing you about 1 1/2 cents each. Talk about affordable elegance!
How to Make Tulip Muffin Cups
Equipment
- Parchment paper
- small can
Ingredients
- 2 sheets 12" x 18" parchment paper
- 1 6-oz can (see Note 1)
Instructions
- With scissors, cut parchment paper in 12 (6-inch) squares, 6 per sheet parchment
- Form each 6-inch square piece parchment over a small can, sliding your hand down the sides of the can to "pleat" the paper as it conforms to the size of the can (see Note 2).
- To use: Place tulip muffin cups in a muffin pan, fill with batter (see Note 3).
Notes
And now for muffins …
You see, baking and I, well, we’ve had our fair share of ups and downs. I love to bake, however, baking has not always liked me. There was a time when I thought we’d never see eye to eye. But then, I had a revelation—I needed to start playing by the rules. That meant measuring ingredients precisely, following directions to a T, and realizing that “folding in” isn’t code for “beating it to death,” “one cup of flour” doesn’t mean, “that looks about right,” and “butter softened,” does not mean “boiling like a witch’s cauldron.”
Einstein Blueberry Muffins
One day that I will not soon forget, I was reminded about how far I’ve come as a home baker when EC staffer, Max, could be heard throughout the office, “These blueberry muffins are insane!” Sure, he called them blueberry muffins, but I call them Einstein Muffins. That’s because every time I make them, I feel like a genius. And you can feel like a genius, too—provided you stick to the recipe exactly.
Einstein Blueberry Muffins
Ingredients
Muffins
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup white granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk*
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Crumb Topping
- ½ cup white sugar
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup butter, diced
- 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 F (200 C). Grease 12 muffin cups or line with muffin liners.
- In a bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Place vegetable oil into a 1-cup measuring cup; add the egg and *enough milk to fill the cup. Beat slightly with a fork.
- Mix this into the flour mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Batter will be very thick.
- Fold in blueberries.
- Fill muffin cups right to the top, and sprinkle with crumb topping mixture.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes or until done. which means when a toothpick is inserted, it comes out just barely clean. Caution: Err on the side of underbaking for the yummiest, moistest muffins. Yield: 12 muffins
- To make the crumb topping, place sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Mix with a fork until crumbly and sprinkle over muffins before baking.
Notes
Nutrition
Best Banana Muffins, Ever!
And, what muffin post would be complete without this fabulous Banana Muffin recipe? Whether enjoyed as a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins are guaranteed to leave you craving for more. And remember, when it comes to nuts or no nuts, it’s an age-old debate. Some say nuts add the perfect crunch, while others, like my son Jeremy, firmly believe that muffins are best-enjoyed without. But hey, the choice is yours—just be prepared for some serious family discussions over breakfast!
Best Banana Muffins, Ever!
Ingredients
Muffins
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3-4 ripe bananas (4 medium or 3 large), mashed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
Crumb topping
- ⅔ cup brown sugar, tightly packed
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly grease 12 muffin cups or line with muffin papers.
- In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg, and melted butter.
- Stir the banana mixture and optional walnuts into the flour mixture just until all are moistened.
- Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle crumb topping over the tops
- Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin, comes out clean. Err on the side of underbaking, even if the centers appear to be a little sunken.
- To make crumb topping, in a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
Notes
Nutrition
Question: Have you ever had a baking mishap like running out of cupcake liners? Share your funniest baking fail stories with me!
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Corned Beef and Cabbage: A Classic Irish Dish Made Simple
/9 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntSavor the hearty goodness of tender corned beef and savory cabbage in this beloved St. Patrick’s Day corned beef and cabbage recipe. It’s been a cornerstone of my annual festivities—because let’s face it, nothing says “Irish celebration” quite like a pot of simmering goodness.
Years ago on March 17, I surprised my staff by bringing a homemade meal to the office to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. I walked through the doors, carrying trays filled with the aroma of simmering corned beef, hearty potatoes, and tender cabbage. Their faces? Pure gold!
That first year, as we gathered around makeshift tables in our office break area, laughter filled the room as we indulged in the simple yet satisfying meal I had prepared. There’s just something about sharing a meal, especially one you’ve poured your heart into, that brings people together, even in the chaos of a workday.
And so, like a determined leprechaun, I’ve made it a point to recreate this St. Patrick’s Day celebration annually. It’s evolved from a mere meal into a symbol of camaraderie, tradition, and the sheer joy of squeezing a little fun into our busy lives.
As time marched on, faces came and went around the table, but the spirit of togetherness and the mouthwatering flavors of corned beef and cabbage remained a constant. It’s a gentle nudge reminding us that amidst the daily grind, there’s always time to gather, share a meal, and sprinkle a little magic into the lives of those we cherish.
Why You’ll Love This Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe
Picture tender, juicy corned beef, perfectly seasoned and complemented by the hearty flavors of potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Despite its mouthwatering complexity, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a feast that rivals any fancy restaurant. This St. Patrick’s Day delight is not only delicious but also budget-friendly.
Whether you’re gearing up for a festive St. Patrick’s Day soirée, craving a cozy comfort meal on a chilly evening, or simply yearning for a taste of the Emerald Isle, this recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of good food, good company, and the simple joys of life. Cheers to that!
What You’ll Need
To bring this simple St. Patrick’s Day meal to the table, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:
A large stockpot
Essential for simmering your corned beef to tender perfection and infusing it with all those delicious flavors.
Corned beef (Brisket or round)
Head to the meat section of your grocery store and look for pre-marinated corned beef packaged in a vacuum-sealed bag. Aim for a brisket or round cut, weighing around three to five pounds, for the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. While I prefer Bill Bailey’s marinated ready-to-cook corned beef, there are various other brands available that come pre-marinated and ready to go.
Small red potatoes
Cut into halves or quarters, as desired. These versatile spuds are ideal for boiling, roasting, or steaming, adding a hearty texture to your dish. Plus, their waxy flesh ensures they hold their shape beautifully.
Carrots
Peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces. Opt for fresh carrots, peel them, and slice them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a delightful texture in every bite.
Green cabbage
Cut into wedges to prevent it from turning mushy during cooking.
How to Make Corned Beef and Cabbage
Stockpot Method
Place the corned beef into a large stockpot of water, ensuring it’s fully submerged and leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. If your corned beef comes with a spice packet, add its contents to the pot.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then quickly reduce the heat to the lowest simmer setting. Cover the pot and let it cook for 5 to 6 hours. It’s important not to let it reach a full rolling boil during the cooking process.
About an hour before serving, add the cut potatoes and carrots to the pot. Be sure to watch them carefully to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Approximately 15 minutes before serving, cut the cabbage into wedges and add them to the pot. Cover and allow the cabbage to cook on medium-high heat until it’s just tender—ideally still green and not mushy.
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the vegetables to a large serving platter or bowl. Slice the beef—it should practically fall apart at this point—and arrange it in the middle of the vegetables. Ladle some of the flavorful broth over everything, and serve immediately.
Freezing Corned Beef
Did you know that you can freeze corned beef in its original sealed plastic for up to 6 months?
Simply pop your unopened package of corned beef into the freezer, and it’ll be ready and waiting whenever you need it. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it as usual. It’s a convenient and budget-friendly way to enjoy this classic dish year-round, without compromising on flavor or quality.
Instant Pot Method
Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and set the corned beef on top. Add 1 quart of beef broth to the pot, then seal it and set it to high pressure for 90 minutes. Once done, do a rapid release of the pressure. Remove the corned beef to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm. Take out the trivet and add the potatoes, carrots, and cabbage wedges to the hot broth. Seal the Instant Pot again and set it to high pressure for just 4 minutes. Once done, serve immediately.
Corned Beef and Cabbage
Equipment
- Large stockpot
Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) pre-marinated corned beef, brisket or round
- 10 small red potatoes, cut into halves or quarters, as desired
- 5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 large head green cabbage, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Place the corned beef in a generously sized stockpot, ensuring it's fully submerged in water, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. If your corned beef comes with a spice packet, sprinkle its contents over the beef.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest simmer setting. Cover and let it gently simmer for 5 to 6 hours, ensuring it never reaches a full rolling boil during the cooking process. This slow and steady simmer is key to achieving perfectly tender and flavorful corned beef.
- During the last hour, add the cut potatoes and carrots. Turn the heat up to medium-low. Watch carefully that the carrots and potatoes do not become mushy. At medium-low, about one hour will be required. Check often.
- Just before serving, slice the cabbage into wedges and gently place them in the pot. Cover and let them cook over medium-high heat until they reach the perfect tender-crisp texture—ideal when they're still vibrant green and not too soft.
- Remove vegetables to a large bowl or serving platter. Slice the beef (it will nearly fall apart) and arrange in the middle of the vegetables. Ladle a bit of the broth over and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Question: What’s your favorite St. Patrick’s Day tradition? Share your go-to recipes or activities in the comments below! 🍀
Quick Dinner Recipe: Italian Cheesy Meatball Bake for Busy Cooks
/7 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Home & Family /by Mary HuntGot unexpected guests or need a quick dinner idea? Look no further than this Italian Cheesy Meatball Bake recipe! Easy, cheesy, and always impressive, it’s the go-to quick dinner recipe every busy cook needs. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a lifesaver on hectic days.
I may be the only person in the world for whom this happens, but I doubt it. On a whim, I invite a bunch of friends over for Sunday Dinner. Or the phone rings and just like that I need to get a meal on the table in a big hurry because guests are on their way.
Those are the occasions that I sprint to an amazing recipe that is easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and quite impressive, too. Think: Italian restaurant in a pan. While it’s in the oven I make a big salad and we’re good to go.
Why This Is The Best Quick Dinner Recipe
This is a recipe that kids love as well as adults. It’s just amazing and I bless the day that the folks at Pillsbury came up with the idea. I, of course, have tweaked the recipe a bit, but I give credit where credit is due.
You need to try this recipe. Don’t worry about being exact or that you aren’t a great cook. This is the most forgiving recipe in the world. As long as you do not burn it, there is no way this will turn out anything but fabulous. And it will save you a ton of money when you can whip this out in no time, rather than calling for takeout. Or worse, picking up the tab to take the entire group to a restaurant.
What You’ll Need
Life can be unpredictable, but I’ve learned to keep my kitchen stocked with essentials for those impromptu meal moments. You will always find a bag of Italian meatballs from Costco and several loaves of Italian bread in my freezer, a big jar of marinara sauce in my grocery stockpile, and cheese in the fridge. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
Meatballs
For time-saving convenience, I recommend using frozen Italian meatballs. You will need 1 pound or roughly 32 meatballs. Frozen Italian meatballs are readily available in most grocery store freezer sections, and I prefer the ones from Costco for their quality and flavor. However, if you’re feeling adventurous and have some leisurely weekend time, consider batch-making and freezing your own homemade Italian meatballs.
Loaf of Bread
Opt for Italian or French bread, pre-sliced for convenience.
Sauce
You’ll need a jar of marinara or spaghetti sauce, approximately 28 ounces. Feel free to choose your favorite brand or homemade recipe if you have one on hand.
Cheeses
Make sure you have Mozzarella cheese, Italian blend cheese, and Parmesan cheese, all shredded, in your fridge. These cheeses will come together to create that irresistible cheesy goodness that defines this dish.
Butter
For toasting the bread. Consider adding some fresh minced garlic or garlic powder to elevate the flavors. If you’re opting for a healthier alternative, olive oil can be used instead.
Spices, optional
Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your Italian Cheesy Bake by adding garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste when warming the meatballs and sauce. Additionally, you may garnish the dish with some fresh basil or parsley after removing it from the oven for an added burst of flavor and freshness.
How to Make the Italian Cheesy Meatball Bake—Cheaper, Better, Faster!
Preparing this mouthwatering Italian Cheesy Meatball Bake is simpler and faster than you might imagine! Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats up, place the entire bag of frozen Italian meatballs in a medium saucepan with marinara sauce. Feel free to customize the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the meatballs are warmed through, transfer them to the center of a 9×13 baking dish. Next, generously layer mozzarella and Italian blend cheeses over the meatballs, finishing off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Lightly spread garlic butter on the slices of Italian or French bread, or brush them lightly with olive oil and minced garlic. Place the prepared bread on a sheet pan, ensuring each slice is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Place both the meatball-filled baking dish and the prepared bread in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is lightly toasted. Keep an eye on the bread as oven temperatures may vary.
Once done, remove the Italian Cheesy Bake from the oven. To add an elegant touch, line the perimeter of the meatball pan with the toasted bread slices, allowing them to stand up around the edges. This not only looks impressive but also adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people, but feel free to multiply the ingredients for larger gatherings.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying Italian meal that’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Buon appetito!
Quick Dinner Recipe: Italian Cheesy Meatball Bake
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen Italian meatballs, about 32
- 1 jar marinara or spaghetti sauce, about 28 oz.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Italian blend cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 loaf Italian or French bread, sliced
- 1/2 cup butter, or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 F. While the oven heats up, pour the entire bag of meatballs into a medium saucepan along with your preferred marinara or spaghetti sauce. For added flavor, feel free to enhance the sauce with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper to your liking. Heat the meatballs over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until they are warmed through, which typically takes about 10 minutes. Once heated, remove the saucepan from the heat source.
- Meanwhile, lightly spread each slice of bread with butter or brush them lightly with olive oil. Arrange the prepared bread slices on a sheet pan, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Even if you opt to leave the bread plain, the dish will still turn out wonderfully flavorful and delicious.
- Arrange the meatballs and sauce evenly in the center of a 9x13 baking dish. Next, generously layer a mixture of mozzarella and Italian blend cheeses over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully covered. Finish by sprinkling a generous amount of Parmesan cheese on top to add a deliciously savory finish to the dish.
- Transfer the prepared baking dish of meatballs and the sheet pan of bread slices into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, and the bread slices are lightly toasted. It's essential to monitor the bread closely, as oven temperatures may vary, ensuring it reaches the perfect level of crispness without burning.
- Once baked, carefully take the dish out of the oven. Arrange the toasted bread slices around the meatballs in the pan. This adds a nice touch to the presentation and gives a variety of textures. Serve and enjoy this tasty Italian Cheesy Bake, perfect for 6 to 8 servings. It's easy to make for larger gatherings too.
Nutrition
Question: What is your go-to quick dinner recipe when you have unexpected guests? Comment down below.
DIY Spa Day at Home: 6 Easy Treatments to Pamper Yourself
/3 Comments/in DIY, Health and Beauty /by Mary HuntDon’t have an extra hundred bucks for a day at the spa? No worries! Treat yourself to a luxurious spa day at home with these easy and affordable DIY treatments. From salt scrubs to facial masks, indulge in some self-care without breaking the bank.
DIY Salt Scrub Recipe
Why spend a fortune on a jar of salt scrub when you can make your own at home for just a buck? Create a DIY salt scrub using Epsom salt and almond oil or baby oil. Massage over wet skin in the shower for instant exfoliation and silky smoothness during your spa day at home.
Here’s all you need:
- Epsom salt
- Almond oil (better) or baby oil (cheaper)
- Aromatherapy-grade essential oil, optional
If you’re feeling extra sweet, you can substitute sugar for Epsom salt. Just don’t blame me if you attract ants instead of relaxation!
How to make it:
- Find a small glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Fill the container about 3/4 full with Epsom salt.
- Slowly pour in almond oil or baby oil while stirring until the mixture resembles wet snow.
- Optional: Add a few drops of your chosen aromatherapy-grade essential oil for a lovely scent. Lavender is a great choice!
To use, massage the salt scrub over wet skin in a hot shower using your hand or a washcloth. Rinse off thoroughly after use. Scratchy, scaly skin is suddenly gorgeous!
Note: Avoid using the scrub on broken or freshly shaven skin.
Homemade Facial Mask
Skip the pricey commercial clay mask facial treatments and make your own with (don’t panic) a generic brand of 100% clay, non-clumping cat litter.
If you’ve ever had a pricey clay mask facial treatment you know that natural clay has the ability to gently draw out impurities and excess oil that can dull skin and clog pores. Clay is known to improve healthy circulation, tighten pores, and tone your complexion.
Here’s what you need:
- 100% clay, non-clumping cat litter
- Warm water
How to use it:
- In a small bowl, combine two tablespoons of the cat litter with enough warm water to create a paste-like consistency.
- Apply the mask evenly to your face and neck, avoiding contact with the eyes.
- Allow the mask to dry completely on your skin.
- Gently remove the dried mask with a wet washcloth.
Who knew cat litter could be a beauty secret? But trust me, it’s cheaper, better, faster than those fancy commercial clay masks. Give it a try for your spa day at home, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Let’s see if your skin purrs with delight too!
Treatment for Troubled Skin
EC Reader Karen J. received a Gift Certificate to visit an exotic day spa for a massage and facial. During the procedure, the technician taught her how to care for her troubled blemish-prone skin at home, for less: Buy a bottle of milk of magnesia. Yes, you read that right – the same stuff you’d find in your medicine cabinet.
Here’s the scoop: Smooth milk of magnesia over blemishes before bed, and a little more over your face in the morning. Then, rinse off the residue in the shower. Voila! Clear, smooth, and soft skin without the hefty price tag.
Karen swears by this budget-friendly home treatment, but remember, always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before attempting self-treatment for any medical condition.
Apple Cider Vinegar Skin Toner
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (ACV) has amazing natural healing and soothing properties. And none better than for aging skin (tell me, whose skin is not aging?!)
Here’s what you need:
- Raw apple cider vinegar (ACV)
- Filtered, distilled, or bottled water
How to use:
- Combine the ingredients in a glass or plastic container using the ratios below for your skin type. While a spray bottle is convenient, it’s not necessary.
- For sensitive skin: Mix 1 part ACV with 4 parts water.
- For normal/dry skin: Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts water.
- For oily skin: Mix equal parts ACV and water.
- Begin your spa day at home by cleansing your face thoroughly and rinsing with water.
- Saturate a cotton square with the ACV toner.
- Gently rub the soaked cotton square over your face and neck, or spritz a light mist directly onto your skin for a refreshing pick-me-up.
- Allow the toner to dry naturally on your skin. Don’t worry – the vinegar scent will dissipate quickly.
Note: No need to refrigerate, as vinegar makes it shelf-stable.
TLC for Elbows
Our elbows endure plenty of wear and tear, and unfortunately, they tend to show it. Here’s the perfect way to give them the attention they deserve and pamper them back to smoothness.
Cut a lemon in half and rest one elbow on each section for at least 10 minutes. Yes, you might look a tad ridiculous, but I promise it’s worth it. Just maybe save this step for when you’re not in the middle of an important meeting or seated in church. The lemon juice works wonders in removing the stains that can make elbows appear dirty.
After your lemony soak, hop into the shower and proceed with your regular routine. Use the lemon halves to do a final body scrub during your shower.
Towel dry your skin and follow up with your favorite moisturizing lotion. Trust me – you’ll emerge feeling as though you’ve just visited an expensive spa.
DIY Foot Soak
Say goodbye to dry, callused heels and hello to baby-soft feet with this incredible homemade treatment. Not only is it a convenient alternative to salon pedicures, but it’s also lighter on the wallet!
What you’ll need:
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar (ACV)
- 1 cup original Listerine or generic antiseptic mouthwash*
How to prepare your foot soak:
- In a foot basin, foot bath, or any container large enough to comfortably soak your feet, combine the warm water, apple cider vinegar, and mouthwash.
- Submerge your feet in the DIY foot bath and let them soak for at least 15 minutes. Feel free to multiply the recipe for a larger basin or if you’re treating multiple pairs of feet!
- After soaking, rinse your feet thoroughly with water and pat them dry with a firm terry towel or microfiber cloth.
- Grab your favorite foot exfoliation tool – whether it’s a pumice stone, foot rasp file, or loofah sponge – and gently slough off the softened dead skin.
- Rinse your feet once more to remove any remaining residue from the soak.
* Pro Tip: Opt for a yellow or amber antiseptic mouthwash to avoid potential staining of your feet, as green or blue variants may leave unwanted marks.
Indulge in a Spa Day at Home
You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience. With these easy and affordable DIY treatments, you can pamper yourself from head to toe without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. From salt scrubs to facial masks, and even unexpected ingredients like cat litter and milk of magnesia, you’ll find everything you need to unwind and refresh your skin.
So why wait? Treat yourself to a little self-care and embrace the luxury of a spa day at home. Your skin will thank you, and you’ll emerge feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world – all without spending a fortune. After all, there’s nothing more valuable than investing in yourself.
Question: What’s your favorite way to unwind and pamper yourself at home after a long day? Let me know down below!
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader-supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
Confessions of a Compulsive Chopper (Shopper)
/Updated /35 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntReady to shake things up in the kitchen? It’s time to chop, dice, and slice your way to culinary greatness—all while keeping your wallet happy. But be warned, it’s not just about chopping veggies—it’s about slicing through those impulsive shopping urges too.
Not long ago, I did something I hadn’t done in years—I took a weekend off. It felt amazing. We had friends over and I whipped up some fresh salsa …
Enter my go-to kitchen sidekick, the Chop Wizard. This little gem saved the day by effortlessly chopping tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, jalapenos, garlic, and cilantro. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! This thing is amazing and super inexpensive.
It chopped the tomatoes fast and uniformly—without launching seeds and pulp across the room or turning the whole thing into a squished mess. I chopped onions, garlic, and peppers, too.
For my famous Pico de Gallo salsa, you’ll need these freshly chopped ingredients: freshly chopped onion, tomato, jalapeno (go easy!), green bell pepper, fresh garlic, and cilantro. Mix ’em up with lime juice, salt, and pepper (all to taste), and voila! You’ve got yourself a tasty treat.
Confessions of a Compulsive Chopper
I’m just smitten with my chopper—it’s become a staple in my kitchen adventures. Honestly, I find myself seeking out things to chop just for the sheer joy of it. I’m a chopping fool! And the results are always so amazing. I even took Chop Wizard to the office a while back and held a demonstration for my tolerant staff.
My Favorite Vegetable Chopper
I know I run the risk of this sounding like I’m a paid spokesperson for Chop Wizard. It’s just that this little gadget has saved me so much time in the kitchen. And the best part? It inspires me to get creative and make things from scratch, which, let’s face it, saves me a pretty penny too!
I stumbled upon my Chop Wizard during a late-night TV infomercial binge years ago. And guess what? They still make it!
For my TikTok aficionados, you might recognize the Chop Wizard as the FullStar Vegetable Chopper. While the Chop Wizard is the OG, this new kid on the block is causing quite a stir on TikTok. With four blades for slicing, dicing, julienning, and even ribbon spiralizing, it’s one excellent, seriously upgraded option I can recommend if chopping is your jam.
Confessions of a Compulsive Shopper
But hey, let’s be real—not every purchase from those late-night ads or PBS specials has been a win. I’ve had my fair share of disappointments, courtesy of my impulsive tendencies. Looking back, it’s a bit cringe-worthy to tally up the junk and cash I’ve squandered over the years.
When it comes to my shopping tendencies, let’s just say I’m compulsive with a capital C—like, impulse buys are my middle name. Picture this: on what might’ve been the worst day of my life, I found myself knee-deep in financial ruin, thanks to a habit of using credit cards to sustain a lifestyle we couldn’t afford. I never meant to steer us down this path, but 12 years of blissful ignorance about our finances came crashing down hard.
Hitting rock bottom was the wake-up call I sorely needed. But let me tell you, those early days were tough—I had to face the cold, hard truth of what everything truly cost, armed only with cash and a newfound sense of responsibility.
A Cheat Sheet for the Compulsive Shopper
Over the years, I’ve developed a handy cheat sheet to keep myself in check. These questions are like a lifeline, helping me navigate the tempting aisles and online carts with ease.
Here’s how it goes:
1. Do I need it?
This is the golden question. Not “want,” but “need.” Will this purchase truly enhance my life or fulfill a necessity, or is it just a fleeting desire?
2. Can I afford it?
Before swiping that card or clicking “checkout,” I pause and assess my financial situation. Can I comfortably afford this purchase without jeopardizing my budget or financial goals?
3. Do I already have something that will do?
Ah, the classic case of redundancy. Before adding another item to my collection, I consider if I already own something that serves the same purpose. No need for duplicates!
4. Can I wait for a more reasonable alternative?
Impulse buys rarely lead to satisfaction. I challenge myself to step back and explore if there’s a more budget-friendly option available or if waiting for a sale or promotion is a smarter move.
5. Am I certain I have located the best deal?
With the plethora of online retailers and price comparison tools at our fingertips, I make sure to scout out the best deal before committing. Saving a few bucks here and there adds up!
6. Am I willing to submit to a self-imposed cooling-off period to think it over?
Sometimes, all it takes is a little time to cool off and reassess. I’ve learned to embrace the power of patience by implementing a self-imposed waiting period before making any major purchases. It’s amazing how clarity emerges with a bit of distance.
Curbing Those Compulsive Shopper Tendencies
You wouldn’t believe how many times these simple questions have stopped me short—forcing me to stop and think and then saving me from making a foolish purchase.
And there have been just as many times that this exercise gave me the confidence I needed to make the right purchasing decision. After all, a little mindfulness goes a long way in curbing those compulsive shopper tendencies.
Question: What strategies have you found most effective in curbing impulsive shopping tendencies? Let me know your secrets in the comments down below.
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader-supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
Feeling Discouraged? Lighten Your Load
/5 Comments/in Mary's Perspective /by Mary HuntFeeling discouraged? In life’s journey, the weight we carry can sometimes overwhelm us, hindering our ability to move forward with ease. Whether it’s tangible possessions or intangible fears and doubts, the weight we carry can make our journey more arduous than it needs to be. It’s time to let go of the heaviness that holds us back and rediscover the joy of living unencumbered.
As flights go, it was ordinary. Still, the trip stands out in my memory as one of my all-time favorites. That’s because I traveled light.
I flew to Dallas in the morning, participated in a luncheon event, saw the sights in the afternoon, and returned home later that evening. It was so easy—no luggage, no baggage check, no carry-on, no umbrella, coat, or duffel bag. No computer or bag search. No straining to hoist all of that heavy stuff into the overhead compartment. No weight to carry, no hassle to bear—just pure freedom and ease.
The Weight That Wears Us Down
There’s something to be said about traveling in such a way. For serious cyclists, the difference between winning and losing can come down to a simple matter of weight and quite possibly the reason we didn’t see Lance Armstrong towing a little trailer filled with snacks and cold beverages.
My point—and yes I do have one—savvy cyclists and climbers are keenly aware of the weight they’re carrying and are always looking for ways to shave a pound here or an ounce there. They know the success of their endeavor depends on their ability to reach their goals without delay and to finish the course.
And so it is with you. The heavier the load, the more difficult the journey and the more trouble you’ll have reaching your goals. Heavy burdens make it difficult to keep up. They can make the journey of life more of a trial to be endured than an adventure to be enjoyed.
Review Your Load
Are you enjoying your journey or are you feeling discouraged and about to break under the weight of all of that “luggage” you’re trying to maneuver down the road of life?
Take a moment to review your load. You can divide everything you are carrying into two categories: tangible and intangible. Among your tangibles might be too many possessions, heavy debt, dozens of credit accounts, mountains of clutter, an overcommitted calendar, and so forth. Under intangibles, you might need to list perfectionism, fear, doubt, guilt, worry, and regret.
- MORE: Tipping Points
Release What Is Not Yours
It is possible you’re trying to manage burdens you were never meant to pick up in the first place. Take, for instance, the heavy weight of regret. It serves no purpose but to drain your energy and hold you back. The past is behind you; it’s time to release it and move forward unencumbered.
Confront your fears and doubts head-on, and decide to leave them behind. That trunk filled with worry? It doesn’t belong to you. Set it down and walk away. As for debts, tackling them may seem daunting, but every small step toward repayment brings you closer to financial freedom and control. Embrace the journey of unburdening yourself, one step at a time.
Renew Your Mind
Each day presents a choice: how will you approach life’s challenges and joys? Elaine St. James in her book, Simplify Your Life, says, “Wise men and women in every major culture throughout history have found that the secret to happiness is not in getting more but in wanting less.” True happiness isn’t found in accumulating more, but rather in desiring less.
An endurance race is hard enough when you’re running light. But it’s far harder, and often impossible if you’re trying to run while lugging around extra stuff. Competitive long-distance runners lay aside everything except what’s absolutely necessary. That’s what we need to do too.
Even in moments of feeling discouraged and as though your life is completely out of control, you can be sure of this: If you want to soar high, you need to take a serious look at all the baggage you’re carrying. Then lighten up!
Question: Feeling discouraged? How do you hit pause and take a breather? Let me know in the comments below.
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Skip the Dinner, Bring on the Appetizer Party!
/2 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntWhile traditional dinner parties have their charm, I’ve learned that starting with hors d’oeuvres can be a risky move. Guests often arrive hungry and fill up on appetizers, leaving little room for the main event. But fear not … I have a stellar solution: an appetizer party!
I’ve learned the hard way just how risky it can be to kick off a dinner party with hors d’oeuvres. Generally, guests arrive hungry, fill up on the appetizers, and soon become less than interested in the main event.
Does this mean we should forget about the appetizers? I’m not ready to do that. Instead, I have a great idea!
Make It an Appetizer Party
Make it an appetizer party, followed by dessert. By skipping the dinner part, you’ll save time and money, and ensure your guests enjoy a guilt-free feast of delectable bites.
Here are some crowd-pleasing small bite recipes to get you started with planning your next appetizer party.
Savory Baked Bacon and Clam Dip
- 1 pound jack cheese, grated
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 pound cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 bunch green onions (scallions), chopped
- 1 or 2 cans minced clams, drained
- 2 round loaves sourdough bread
In a mixing bowl, combine the first six ingredients until well blended. Cut off the tops of the sourdough bread loaves and set them aside. Hollow out the loaves. Pour the mixed dip into the hollowed-out loaves and replace the tops. Wrap the filled loaves in foil and bake at 300°F for 2-3 hours. Serve with the bread pieces on the side, cut into large cubes for dipping. Serves: 16-20.
Creamy Garden Vegetable Dip
- 1 cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s or Best Foods)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup minced parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped canned water chestnuts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, green onion, parsley, water chestnuts, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Mix all ingredients until well combined. Chill the dip in the refrigerator for several hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with crisp fresh vegetables for dipping. Serves: 6-8.
This versatile recipe can easily be multiplied to accommodate larger gatherings.
Bacon-Wrapped Smokies
- 1 pound bacon, cut into thirds
- 1 14-ounce package smoked beef cocktail wieners
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, or to taste
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Refrigerate 2/3 of the bacon until needed; it’s easier to wrap the wieners with cold bacon. Wrap each cocktail wiener with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Place the wrapped wieners on a large baking sheet and sprinkle generously with brown sugar. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until the sugar is bubbly and the bacon is crispy. Serve immediately, or transfer to a slow cooker set on the warm setting to keep them hot. Serves: 16 (or fewer—these go fast).
This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Dip
- 1/4 cup oil-packed, sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- hot pepper sauce (Tabasco or Frank’s), to taste
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
In a food processor, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, hot pepper sauce, salt, and pepper. Process until the ingredients are well-blended and the mixture is smooth. Add the fresh basil to the mixture and continue processing until the basil is fully incorporated. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Serve with fresh vegetables, crackers, or pita chips for dipping. Serves: 16.
Party Squares
- 1 (8-ounce) package refrigerated crescent rolls
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (1-ounce) package dry Ranch-style dressing mix (or make your own)
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh broccoli
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the crescent rolls onto a large non-stick baking sheet. Stretch and flatten them to form a single rectangular shape. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until just golden brown (avoid overbaking). Allow to cool. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with half of the ranch dressing mix, adjusting to taste. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Arrange the chopped carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and green onions on top of the cream cheese, pressing them gently into the mixture. Chill the prepared squares in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour. Once chilled, cut the squares into bite-size pieces. Best served immediately. Yields: 24 squares (or fewer depending on how you cut them).
Japanese Chicken Wings
- 3 pounds chicken wings
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, for coating
- 1 cup butter
For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the chicken wings in half and dip each piece in the beaten egg, then coat with flour. Heat the butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the wings until they are deep brown on all sides. Place the fried wings in a shallow roasting pan. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, and salt to make the sauce. Pour the sauce over the wings, making sure they are evenly coated. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, basting them with the sauce occasionally. Once cooked through and sticky, transfer the wings to a slow cooker set on the warm setting for serving. Serves: 6.
Serve Your Appetizers in Style
When it comes to serving appetizers, presentation is key. Elevate your appetizer party game with a chic appetizer serving platter set that will impress your guests. Pair it with cocktail toothpicks for easy serving and a touch of elegance. With these essentials, you’ll not only delight your guests’ taste buds but also elevate the ambiance of your appetizer party.
Because Life Is Too Short to Skip Dessert!
Unlike the multi-course dinner party, where guests often struggle to find room for dessert after indulging in appetizers and mains, hosting an appetizer party ensures your guests can save ample space to indulge guilt-free in dessert. And trust me, unlike those guests, I never have trouble finding room for dessert!
Consider pairing these savory appetizers with my Instant Pot New York Cheesecake, 4-Ingredient Cranapple Dump Cake, Banana Pudding, or The Best Apple Pie in the Whole World. These make-ahead dessert recipes are not only delicious but also practical, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Question: What’s your go-to appetizer recipe for entertaining guests? Comment down below and share your tips with us!
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Vegetable Gardening for Beginners: One Square Foot at a Time
/26 Comments/in Outdoors and Garden /by Mary HuntNew to vegetable gardening? Fear not—Mel Bartholomew’s square foot gardening method revolutionizes your green thumb game. Say goodbye to overwhelming layouts and hello to simplicity and abundance, whether acres or a cozy balcony. Square foot gardening creates a thriving garden paradise—one square foot at a time.
For years I’d tried to grow a decent vegetable garden. The high cost of fresh basil—$3.50 for a few measly, wilted basil leaves, ditto for a pound of somewhat reddish tomatoes, and mostly pink strawberries—prompted me to try.
I started with tomatoes, basil, and peppers (a salsa garden!). Over time, I ambitiously expanded to include zucchini and cucumbers and even ventured into growing corn and strawberries.
But I have to be honest, my harvests ranged from disappointing to mediocre. Only that one year did my garden produce so well, we had enough to share with others. I’m still trying to remember how I did that.
One thing I do quite well is weeds. I try not to take too much credit here, but I have to tell you I’ve never seen anyone else grow weeds quite as successfully as I do. And I take them right through the season until they actually re-seed themselves for the next season!
While I love the concept of a garden that’s not only nice to look at but actually produces the food we enjoy eating, I’m not 100% in love with the anxiety, pressure, guilt, backaches, leg cramps, and fear of needing hip replacements.
From Hobbyist to Harvest
While in the past my efforts to grow a garden have been more of a hobby than a serious endeavor, I feel that changing. The high cost of food—specifically, produce—tells me it’s time to get serious. We need to become more self-sufficient but in a cost-effective way.
While I feel that I’ve mastered weeds, I’ve failed miserably in cost-effectiveness. I shudder to imagine the true cost of the pathetically tiny bounty I’ve garnered over the years. That doesn’t mean I’m ready to give up on vegetable gardening, only that I’m ready for a new way to do it.
The Better Way: Square Foot Vegetable Gardening
Mel Bartholomew, the brilliant mind behind “square foot gardening” and author of the All-New Square Foot Gardening, 3rd Edition, revolutionized home vegetable gardening as we know it.
Square Foot Gardening is the most practical, foolproof way to grow a home vegetable garden, whether you’re growing an urban patio garden, or have an entire backyard. Adopting this method, you can transform any space into a thriving vegetable garden, regardless of its size or location.
Bartholomew, a civil engineer by profession and a frustrated gardener on weekends, became convinced that gardening in single rows because “that’s the way we’ve always done it,” is a waste of time, energy, and money.
He condensed his garden to above-the-ground, 6-inch deep plots measuring four feet by four feet, which yielded 100% of the harvest in 20% of the space—without all the hard work and drudgery of single-row gardening. Imagine gardening one square foot at a time!
Best Harvest Yet with Square Foot Vegetable Gardening
With this approach, you’ll need 20% less space, making it ideal for small areas like patios, balconies, or driveways. Despite its compact size, a square foot garden produces double the yield of a traditional garden. Notably, recent data reveals that the Square Foot Gardening Method is estimated to cost 50% less, utilize 20% less space, require just 10% of the water, and involve a mere 2% of the effort compared to single-row gardening techniques.
Even in a compact space as small as two feet square, square foot gardens are easily shielded from weather and pests, ensuring high productivity with minimal effort.
A square foot garden can be created and maintained by those with physical limitations, thanks to its adaptable raised bed design.
Regardless of the season, you can kickstart your square foot garden effortlessly. With no need for thinning, tilling, or extensive seed planting, it’s a hassle-free process. Plus, the best part? Say goodbye to weeds—none, zero, zilch!
Setting Up Your Square Foot Garden
Start by choosing a location receiving 6-8 hours of daily sunlight, away from trees and shrubs to avoid root interference and shade. Opt for proximity to the house for convenience. The quality of existing soil is irrelevant as it won’t be utilized. Ensure the chosen area doesn’t puddle after heavy rainfall.
Step 1: Construct a box
Build a 4’x4′ box using materials like untreated cedar or recycled plastic, ensuring weed prevention with landscape fabric.
Step 2: Fill the box
Fill the square foot garden with Mel’s Mix™, a tested formula consisting of equal volumes of coarse-grade vermiculite, sphagnum peat moss (or coconut coir), and blended organic compost.
Step 3: Install a grid
Install a grid to divide the SFG, which can be made from materials like Venetian blinds or wooden yardsticks. This grid ensures proper spacing for seeds/plants, promoting organization and higher yields from your limited space garden.
Invest in Bartholomew’s Guide
If you have any interest at all in pursuing a square foot garden, I highly recommend that you invest in Bartholomew’s book. Presented simply and visually, this is a resource that will return its value hundreds of times over in home-grown bounty and I’m talking about so much, you’ll have plenty to share. And please … don’t forget to snap some pictures of your thriving garden!
Discover the simplicity and productivity of square foot gardening in Mel Bartholomew’s updated third edition. This comprehensive guide provides essential tips and charts to maximize your vegetable yield. With easy-to-follow steps—build, fill, and grid—no digging or tilling needed. From trellising to pest management, this 272-page book caters to both novice and experienced gardeners, promising a bountiful harvest every time.
Square Foot Gardening creator Mel Bartholomew established the Square Foot Gardening Foundation in 1996 to further his mission of promoting self-sufficiency and sustainability through gardening. Through their grant program, the foundation supports local and global organizations in their efforts to increase food security, empowering families and communities worldwide—one square foot at a time. For more information and to get involved in their mission, visit the Square Foot Gardening Foundation’s website.
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader-supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to allow publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites.
The Best Spring Cleaning Products & Tools to Make Your Home Shine
/4 Comments/in Cleaning, DIY /by Mary HuntAs spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to gather your spring cleaning A-Team. Bid farewell to winter grime as we identify the best spring cleaning products and DIY cleaning recipes to reveal the secrets to a sparkling home!
There’s an illness that has been documented by poets for centuries and I’ve got it. Spring Fever is that wonderfully amorphous disease we all recognize come March and April. While it remains a fuzzy medical condition, there has been a great deal of research on how seasonal changes affect our mood and behavior. I know how it affects me—it makes me want to spring clean!
While I don’t invite all my friends over to join in, I have built a team of DIY cleaning recipes and spring cleaning products that make the job not necessarily fun, but at least enjoyable. Today, I’d like to introduce you to my Spring Cleaning A-Team.
Hot Deals • March 2024
/Updated /0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntGet ready for March 2024’s best deals! From household essentials to luxurious finds, we’ve handpicked the best discounts to elevate your shopping experience. Remember, details were accurate at publishing, but prices may change. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases, helping us bring you these fantastic deals. Let’s keep saving!
Most Recent Top Deals in March 2024
Don’t forget! The Amazon Big Spring Sale started Wednesday and runs through March 25th. I’m on a mission to unearth the absolute best deals for EC readers, handpicking items that’ll help you save both time and money in clever, creative ways. From nifty gadgets to practical essentials, get ready to discover savings that’ll make your day! Here’s everything you need to know →
More March Hot Deals
*The Swaying Warm White Garden Lights are 50% off with promo code: 50IT2W8J!
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader-supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to allow publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. We hope you enjoy these best deals. Thanks!
News You Can Use • March 2024
/Updated /0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntStay informed with our curated selection of March 2024’s top news articles, covering Capital One’s acquisition of Discover, IRS tax payment strategies, and the inspiring journey of a bikepacker turned entrepreneur. More top news articles to come throughout the month.
Most Recent Top News Articles
Retired at 36?
After retiring at 36 from a successful career in data science, Yaron Goldstein found himself busier than ever, filling his days with a myriad of passions and pursuits. From traveling the US to writing a children’s book on data science, establishing a green tea business, and pursuing a physics degree, Goldstein’s structured daily routine blends learning, leisure, and social engagements, proving that retirement can be anything but idle. Read more →
Spruce Up Your Finances: 6 Steps to Spring Clean Your Bank Accounts
Just as you’d tidy up your living space, it’s time to give your bank accounts a good ol’ spring cleaning! Peek into those transactions for sneaky fees, bid farewell to unnecessary subscriptions, and take a big-picture look at your spending. Automate your payments, ditch the paper statements, and streamline your accounts to match your money goals. Whether you’re merging or opening new accounts, regular financial tune-ups keep your funds in top shape year-round. Read more →
Move over rainy day funds—here comes the “me fund”
Sure, emergency savings are crucial, but have you heard of the “me fund”? It’s like your personal stash for those not-so-necessary-but-oh-so-wanted splurges, from concert tickets to that killer pair of shoes. Rita Cheng, a certified financial planner, breaks down why having a “me fund” is smart and how to kickstart yours without breaking the bank. Read more →
Facebook’s ‘Poking’ Feature Makes a Comeback
Facebook is bringing back its classic “poking” feature, seeing a surge in activity, especially among young users. Originally a playful gesture, poking now offers a simple way to reconnect with friends as Facebook celebrates its 20th anniversary. Read more →
It’s been a very good week for your 401(k)
Despite a minor dip on Friday, US stocks wrapped up a robust week, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average marking its best performance since December. The surge was fueled by record highs, particularly in artificial intelligence stocks, and positive economic outlooks from the Federal Reserve. Read more →
Embracing Living Fences
Living fences, echoing centuries of agricultural tradition, offer multifaceted benefits for modern landscapes. From providing privacy to nurturing biodiversity, these vibrant barriers, built from various plants, trees, and shrubs, enhance both aesthetics and ecology. Read more →
Ruling to Reshape Real Estate Market Dynamics in the U.S.
An antitrust settlement against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) is poised to revolutionize the American real estate landscape. With commissions set to become competitive and negotiable, homebuyers stand to benefit from reduced costs, potentially saving thousands of dollars. While buyers may face changes in payment structures for their agents, increased transparency is expected. However, the shift could lead to a significant exodus of brokers from the industry, with implications for market dynamics and industry players. Read more →
It’s not you, it’s them: Engaged couples are cutting back on lavish weddings
The American wedding landscape is transforming as engaged couples opt for more modest celebrations amidst a decline in lavish affairs. Rising costs and shifting generational attitudes are contributing to this trend, with many couples prioritizing financial prudence and practicality over extravagant expenditures. As a result, wedding vendors are diversifying their offerings to adapt to changing consumer preferences, navigating an increasingly competitive market while striving to maintain the essence of cherished traditions. Read more →
California’s Spring Spectacle: The Superbloom Emerges in Vibrant Display
As winter rain saturates California, a stunning spring superbloom emerges, promising a vibrant display of wildflowers across the diverse landscape. While wet conditions set the stage for brilliance, challenges like extreme heat and invasive species threaten the blooms. Conservation efforts urge visitors to tread lightly, safeguarding these ephemeral wonders for future enjoyment. Read more →
March 18, 2024
America’s Condiment Craze: From Kranch to Truffle Mayo, Sauce Reigns Supreme
Delve into the sauce sensation sweeping the nation as food companies and restaurants inundate consumers with a plethora of condiments. From Jack in the Box’s “Munchie Sauce” to Kraft Heinz’s innovative “sauce drops,” explore how sauce preferences become deeply personal and sometimes overwhelming. Despite challenges like sauce shortages and overly sauced dishes, the condiment craze shows no signs of slowing down, transforming meals and relationships alike. Read more →
Empowering Entrepreneurs: Women Lead the Charge in Business Growth
Explore the surge in female entrepreneurship, driven by women like Bernadette Corbeil, who defy traditional norms to excel in male-dominated fields like construction. With insights from experts and data analysis, discover how women are reshaping industries, seizing opportunities for autonomy and flexibility, and addressing gaps in skilled trades. From founding successful businesses to advocating for diversity, women are driving innovation and economic growth. Read more →
Financial Support for Grown Children: A Growing Trend Among Parents
A recent report reveals that nearly half of parents with adult children over 18 provide some form of financial assistance, averaging $1,384 per month. While this support reflects the evolving economic challenges faced by millennials and Gen Z, it also poses risks to parents’ retirement security. Experts advise setting boundaries and balancing parental aid with personal financial goals, emphasizing the importance of fostering financial independence in adult children. Read more →
Boeing’s Troubles: A Crisis of Confidence and Accountability
Once a paragon of reliability, Boeing now faces a tumultuous future marred by mid-flight disasters and a declining reputation for quality. Recent incidents, including a Dreamliner’s sudden descent mid-flight, have shaken regulators, airlines, and investors. With Boeing’s stock plummeting and federal investigations underway, questions loom about the company’s accountability and its path forward. Explore the complexities of Boeing’s challenges in this insightful analysis. Read more →
Discount Dilemma: Family Dollar & Dollar Tree Close 1,000 Stores Amidst Retail Turmoil
Dive into the retail turmoil as Family Dollar, plagued by mismanagement and store conditions, announces the closure of nearly 1,000 stores. Dollar Tree, its parent company, faces the aftermath of fines and dwindling profits amidst economic challenges and reduced government benefits. Explore the implications for shoppers and the retail landscape, highlighting the rise of discount competitors like Dollar General. Read more →
SpaceX’s Super Heavy-Starship: Triumphs, Trials, and Future Endeavors
Witness SpaceX’s monumental third test flight of the Super Heavy-Starship rocket, a groundbreaking endeavor marked by successes and setbacks. While the rocket’s ascent and space journey were awe-inspiring, both stages met their demise during descent. Despite this, SpaceX celebrates significant achievements and gathers crucial data for future advancements. Delve into the highs and lows of this historic flight, illuminating the path forward for space exploration. Read more →
Race to the Moon: NASA Teams Up with SpaceX and Blue Origin for Lunar Missions
NASA is collaborating with SpaceX and Blue Origin in a quest to return American astronauts to the lunar surface as part of the Artemis program. While facing challenges such as cost concerns and technical hurdles, the ambitious endeavor aims to establish a sustainable presence on the moon and pave the way for future missions to Mars. Read more →
The Generation Z Financial Trap: Why Young Adults Are Falling for Online Scams
Discover why Generation Z is surprisingly susceptible to financial scams, as experts delve into the factors driving this trend. From targeted online advertisements to a culture of trust in social media, learn how young adults are being lured into fraudulent schemes, resulting in significant financial losses. Read more →
Job Market Juggernaut: February’s Labor Report Breakdown
February’s jobs report showcases resilient growth, with 275,000 jobs added, despite a slight uptick in the unemployment rate. Sectors like healthcare and hospitality continue to drive expansion. However, revisions to previous months’ figures reveal nuances in the recovery. Read more →
TikTok No More? Inside the Latest Battle Over the App’s Fate
House lawmakers are pushing forward with a bill that could spell trouble for TikTok in the US, requiring it to separate from its Chinese parent company or face a ban. As tensions rise over national security concerns and free speech rights, here’s a breakdown of what’s at stake. Read more →
Popping Potential: How Popcorn Empowers Those with Autism
Discover the heartwarming story of “Popcorn for the People,” a non-profit initiative by Sam Bier, a 33-year-old with autism. Through this venture, Bier is not only providing employment opportunities but also fostering independence for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Learn more about this inspiring endeavor in CNN’s report. Watch video →
March 9, 2024
Coming Soon? Applebee’s-IHOP Combo Restaurants Set to Revolutionize Dining Experience
Get ready for a dining revolution as Applebee’s and IHOP contemplate combining forces in dual-branded locations. With successful prototypes already in Mexico, this innovative concept promises increased revenue and enhanced dining options. Read more →
Octo-Olympics: Female Octopuses Showcase Precision Seashell Throwing Skills
Female octopuses in Australia display remarkable behavior, hurling seashells and debris with precision at other octopuses. Caught on camera for the first time, this intriguing behavior sheds light on octopus interactions and social dynamics. Read more →
Shadow the Warrior Dad: Big Bear Bald Eagle’s Heroic Wing Slap
Meet Shadow, the protective father eagle at Big Bear Lake, who demonstrated his parenting prowess by executing a flawless ‘wing slap’ to ward off a swooping raven from his nest. Biologist Sandy Steers shares insights into the eagles’ vigilant defense strategies. Follow the gripping saga of Jackie and Shadow’s nest on the 24-hour webcam. See video →
March 8, 2024
The Rising Cost of College: Balancing Demand, Administrative Expenses, and Debt Forgiveness
Despite recent loan forgiveness initiatives, college tuition continues to soar, with average costs increasing by 155% between 1980 and 2023. Administrative expenses, driven by a growing number of staff and demand for degrees, contribute to the financial burden. Institutions like Pomona College, with yearly tuition reaching $62,326, grapple with balancing expenses while providing financial aid. Analysts stress the need for students to weigh costs against benefits and for institutions to reevaluate their financial structures. Read more →
Biden’s Blitz: Credit Card Late Fees Capped
Biden’s administration takes aim at junk fees with a $8 cap on credit card late fees, saving families over $10 billion annually. Learn more about the new regulation here: Read more →
Cookie Monster’s Crunch: Shrinkflation Sparks White House Response
Cookie Monster’s outcry over shrinking cookies sparks a high-level response, with President Biden calling for an end to shrinkflation. Read more about the muppet’s complaint and the White House’s reaction here: Read more →
Earlier Top News Articles
AT&T’s Response: $5 Credits for Customers Hit by Service Outage
In response to last month’s widespread cellphone service disruption affecting over 70,000 customers, AT&T pledges $5 bill credits to affected individuals. The company acknowledges the frustration caused by the outage and vows to prevent future occurrences. While the credit may take two billing cycles to apply, it offers a gesture of goodwill to impacted consumers … Read more →
Economists Paint Rosy Picture for 2024: Growth, Stability, and Fed Moves
Economists foresee a promising year ahead for the U.S. economy, with faster growth, easing inflation, and robust job creation on the horizon. The National Association for Business Economics (NABE) anticipates a 2.2% rise in gross domestic product (GDP) this year, a significant uptick from previous projections. Expectations of declining inflation and the possibility of Fed rate cuts add to the positive outlook, buoyed by a bullish stock market and strong employment market … Read more →
Lights, Camera, Netflix: Your Ultimate Guide to the Must-Watch Movies of 2024!
Dive into the excitement of 2024 with Netflix’s impressive lineup of new movies! From gripping thrillers to heartwarming comedies and captivating documentaries, there’s something for everyone. Check out the full list of over 50 titles in Joe Allen’s comprehensive article on what’s coming to Netflix this year … Read more →
Capital One’s Bold Move: Buying Discover for $35 Billion
Capital One’s proposed acquisition of Discover Financial Services for over $35 billion has sparked discussions about its potential impact on consumers. While the deal awaits regulatory approval, experts suggest minimal changes for customers of both companies … Read more →
Avoiding IRS Interest Snowballs: Why Paying Taxes on Time Matters
With interest compounded daily, delaying payment can quickly escalate your tax bill. Columnist Michelle Singletary offers practical advice on navigating tax debt, from setting up payment plans to avoiding dubious tax debt settlement companies … Read more →
From Pedals to Profit: How a Bikepacker Turned Adventure into Income on the Road
Tristan Ridley’s journey as a full-time bikepacker spans continents and life-threatening moments. With a budget as low as $6 a day, he transformed his passion for cycling into a thriving business, offering coaching services and growing a popular YouTube channel. Learn how Ridley and others like him are turning their unconventional lifestyles into successful online ventures, inspiring a new wave of digital nomads … Read more →
Check back regularly for updates! We’ll be adding new top news articles throughout March 2024.
How to Clean with Vinegar: The Hero of Budget-Friendly Cleaning
/3 Comments/in Cleaning, Home & Family /by Mary HuntWho says you need to break the bank to maintain a spotless home? Buckle up because we’re about to visit myriad secrets of plain ol’ white vinegar—the unsung hero of budget-friendly cleaning.
Vinegar—it’s an all-natural, versatile cleaner that can tackle almost any mess without costing a fortune. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of vinegar cleaning, covering everything from the different types of vinegar to where to find them and how to use them effectively without sacrificing health or safety.
The Vacuums I Use Every Day and Absolutely Swear By
/Updated /42 Comments/in Best Inexpensive, Cleaning /by Mary HuntIf you have hard flooring, carpet, or flat surfaces in your home—which just about covers every possibility—there are four specific vacuum cleaners that deserve your attention: an upright, a cordless stick vac, a cordless handheld, and a robot vacuum. These are the four worker bees that I own, love, use nearly every day, and do not want to live without.
Keeping a home clean is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. Vacuum cleaning plays a vital role in this process, offering several health-related benefits. Here are a few reasons why it is imperative to clean a home using a vacuum, according to the American Lung Association.
Dust and Allergen Removal
Regular vacuuming helps remove dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens from carpets, rugs, and upholstery. These microscopic particles can trigger allergies and asthma, leading to respiratory problems. Vacuuming eliminates these irritants, improving indoor air quality and reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
A Vacuum Cleaner Story So Disgusting It Is Embarrassing to Tell
/79 Comments/in Cleaning, Home & Family /by Mary HuntEven though not 100% organized, I pride myself on housekeeping to the point of being accused a time or two of being a wee bit compulsive. This brings me to the matter of vacuum cleaners. I’m particular, if not freakish, about vacuums. There was a time when I wore out vacuums so often that the folks at the Recycling Center knew me by name.
Let me take you back to 2007. I’d just blown out my third Hoover Wind Tunnel, having worn that thing down to its last gasp. I carried it in pieces to the Recycle Center. I was planning to replace it with the latest and greatest from Hoover until I heard about the Shark Navigator.
I Challenged Dominos to a Pizza Bake-Off and This is What Happened
/9 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntThere are some who consider pizza the perfect food. It has complex carbohydrates, vegetables, dairy, and protein. Okay, maybe “perfect” is stretching it a bit, but I remember when pizza was something you shouldn’t eat too much of because it might spoil your dinner. Now it is dinner.
Millions of families rely on pizza because it is quick, cheap, and convenient. But is it? To find out, I conducted a somewhat less-than-scientific test. Could I make, bake, and get a reasonably delicious pizza on the table in less time and for less money than it would take to order and wait to have a pizza delivered?
The Challenge
I ordered a large 14-inch thin-crust tomato and cheese pizza from Domino’s for delivery. As soon as I closed the app, I went to work on my homemade version of that pizza with a no-rise crust.
Bar Keepers Friend: The Secret to a Spotless Home
/2 Comments/in Cleaning, Home & Family /by Mary HuntKeeping a pristine home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools and products, you can achieve a sparkling clean space without spending hours scrubbing away. I’m going to let you in on my secret weapon sitting front and center in my household cleaning cupboard. It’s Bar Keepers Friend.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into what Bar Keepers Friend is, its safety profile, ease of use, versatility, cost, caution, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Cetaphil’s New Anti-Aging Collection: A Review
/Updated /7 Comments/in Health and Beauty /by Mary HuntIn the ever-evolving world of skincare, finding effective anti-aging products that deliver noticeable results without breaking the bank can feel like an endless, expensive quest. However, Cetaphil, a trusted name in skincare known for being gentle yet effective, has recently introduced a new line of anti-aging products that I’ve been using since Oct. 2023. This is my honest review:
Say goodbye to pricey serums and creams and hello to Cetaphil’s Healthy Renew collection. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore each product in the lineup, including the Cetaphil Healthy Renew Face Serum, Cetaphil Healthy Renew Night Cream, Cetaphil Healthy Renew Day Cream SPF 30, and Cetaphil Healthy Renew Eye Gel Serum, then conclude with my honest, unbiased review.
Tipping Points
/6 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThere’s a beautiful Recreation Center in our community complete with a ginormous indoor swimming pool geared to kids and families. One of the cool water features in this pool is a contraption that sits way up high. Picture this as a kind of huge tree sculpture where the “branches” hold big, brightly colored buckets.
A trickle of water is constantly pumping up through the center “trunk” slowly filling the buckets, drip by drip. The buckets are attached in a way to be wobbly, appearing to be precarious and ready to blow any second now.
How to Remove Stains on Aluminum Cookware After An Unfortunate Trip Through the Dishwasher
/6 Comments/in Cleaning /by Mary HuntWhen aluminum pans get stained and discolored from frequent use, it’s time for a thorough cleaning. But what happens when these pieces appear to be all but ready for the landfill after an unfortunate trip through the dishwasher?
Dear Mary: I inherited a lovely set of vintage aluminum cookware. For some reason, I assumed I could put these pans in the dishwasher. Well, they came out so discolored they are no longer pretty. I have tried a couple of cleaning methods that did nothing to restore their beauty. Do you have any suggestions? Ina
Dear Ina: Most aluminum is best washed by hand with mild soap to to prevent exactly what you have experienced—dark, unattractive staining. When washed in a dishwasher, aluminum darkens due to mineral content in the water, chemicals in the automatic dishwashing detergent together with high heat from the dry cycle.
In most, but not all, cases this change in appearance is not permanent. Removing dark stains from an aluminum cooking pot that has been damaged by the dishwasher can be challenging, but here are a few methods you can try to clean those stains to restore the beauty of polished aluminum—and then keep them that way.
Simple Ways We Can Stop Throwing Our Food Dollars Into The Garbage
/3 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Gadgets /by Mary HuntI’m having a difficult time wrapping my head around this documented fact: Nearly half of all produce grown in the U.S. is thrown out, while at the same time there is growing hunger and poverty right here in America.
As I read the first paragraph of this news story, I assumed naively that all U.S.-grown produce makes it to market. Then consumers like you and I get it home, let it go bad before we can consume it and into the garbage it goes. That is a factor, but not the whole story.
The truth is that vast quantities of fresh produce are left in fields and orchards to rot. It then becomes livestock feed or gets hauled directly to the landfill because of cosmetic standards.
Not every potato, watermelon, strawberry, or grape cluster turns out photo-perfect. Some are ugly. And, unfortunately, that means they do not meet retailer and consumer demands for blemish-free, perfect produce.
Just imagine how the retail cost of produce might plummet if all that is grown—even the still-nutritious but ugly produce—were available for sale.
DIY Copper Cleaner That is All Natural, Non-Toxic
/1 Comment/in Cleaning, Home & Family /by Mary HuntThere are so many good reasons to make your own household cleaners. It’s cheaper, healthier and greener, too. The homemade household cleaners I share with you from time to time do not contain chemicals. That means you can always count on them to be non-toxic.
DEAR MARY: The copper post caps on my deck are becoming tarnished. Do you know of a natural (cheap) way that I can clean them without causing any damage to the copper? I’m enclosing a picture of this problem. Patti
Dear Patti: I really like this beautiful treatment on your deck. Thanks for including a photo . I do have a solution for you using ordinary items from your pantry. It is cheap to make, easy to use on any copper items that have not been coated with varnish or shellac, and works great. Best of all it contains no toxic chemicals.
All that being said, I caution you and all my readers again to always test in an inconspicuous place, any kind of cleaner or other treatment like this that you have not used in the past. This is the only way to know before go exactly how your product or item is going to react. This is a good way to make sure you never make a bad situation even worse!.
Copper Cleaner
You’ll need:
✅ 6 tablespoons table salt
✅ 6 tablespoons flour
✅ white vinegar
Make a paste of equal parts salt and flour with a few tablespoons of white vinegar. Apply to copper item with a soft cloth and rub gently to remove tarnish. Rinse with water and buff dry with another clean soft cloth.
Ketchup Option
Another option, believe it or not, is good old ketchup. How? Well, check the ingredients and you’ll see a major presence of vinegar and salt. Tomatoes are acidic so that throws in an added punch.
Want to see how this works? Find an old copper penny that has darkened s compared to a bright new shiny copper penny. Pour ketchup into a small bowl. Dip that penny in just halfway and hold it there for a few seconds. Remove, rinse and inspect. Yeah! It does work.
So, there you go. Two options to clean your beautiful post caps, copper cookware, decorator pieces, and your ennies, too!
Personally, I’d go with the first option as we run out of ketchup around out house more often than we do salt, flour, or vinegar. I am also of the opinion that the salt/flour/vinegar option is better for clean all the accumulated dirt, bird droppings, as well as tarnish. I’m not sure ketchup is up to that.
How to Clean Suede Shoes and Keep Them Looking Sharp
/1 Comment/in Cleaning, Clothing and Accessories /by Mary HuntSuede shoes are a timeless fashion statement, but let’s face it: they’re not the easiest to keep clean. Whether it’s dirt, water, or oil stains, suede seems to attract them all. But fear not! With a little know-how and some TLC, you can keep your suede shoes looking fresh and fabulous. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of cleaning suede shoes like a pro.
What Makes Suede Special?
Suede isn’t your ordinary leather. It’s softer, more supple, and has that velvety texture we all love. But it’s also more delicate and prone to staining. Understanding suede’s unique properties is the first step to mastering its care.
Money-Saving Tips, Tricks, and Hacks to Put Your Freezer To Work
/5 Comments/in Emergency Preparedness, Food and Recipes, Tips /by Mary HuntWhether yours is a stand-alone unit or part of your refrigerator, your freezer costs a lot in wasted energy or saves you a bundle in food costs. Use these simple tips to make sure your freezer is working hard for you to stretch your food dollars.
General Freezer Guidelines
Ambient temperature
Get a refrigerator/freezer thermometer to check the temperature. The closer to 0° F. (-18° C.) the better. Food kept at 0 degrees Fahrenheit will last months longer than at say 20 or 31 degrees. Even if your unit has a built in thermometer, it’s good to have a manual model you keep in the refrigerator and another in the freezer. This way, if you have a power outage, you won’t have to guess what’s going on.
6 Ways to Unclog a Drain Without Using Caustic Chemicals
/Updated /24 Comments/in DIY, Repairs and Maintenance /by Mary HuntA plugged-up sink, shower, or tub drain sends most people running for either a bottle of caustic drain cleaner or a plumber’s phone number. But wait. Unclogging a drain could be a job you can do yourself successfully without caustic chemicals or a big bill.
You have several options, each one outlined below. It makes sense to start with the easiest, most likely solution. Then, if that doesn’t work, move to the next option.
Assess the situation
Turn on taps to allow water down other drains in the house. If everything else is flowing freely, you can be fairly certain you have a localized clog—and probably near that clogged drain’s opening.
If this involves other drains, you could have a bigger problem that may require a professional. Assuming it’s only one drain, let’s move on.
1. Boiling water
It makes sense to start with the cheapest option: Get a large pot and boil up as much water as it will hold. Now carefully and slowly, pour boiling water down the drain in two to three stages so that the hot water can work for a few minutes between each pour. This is the easiest and quickest way to unclog a drain if it works, which usually it does with a satisfying swoosh.
Caution: If you are dealing with a very old, antique porcelain sink and/or PVC pipes, there’s a slight chance that boiling water could cause damage. In this case, fill the pot with your hottest tap water.
Still not running freely? Let’s move to the next option.
2. Blue Dawn plus boiling water
Pour 1/2 cup of Blue Dawn detergent (no substitutes for best result) into the drain. For tough clogs, use a full cup. While that sits, bring a half pot of water (about 4 cups) to boil. Pour this directly into the drain very slowly but steadily to avoid getting burned by splashing water. Allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then run water down the drain to check how freely water flows.
If the clog remains or seems to be clearing, but the drain is still slow-running, repeat the boiling water step above until the drain runs free.
Best Ideas and Gifts (Him, Her, Kids!) to Celebrate Valentine’s Day
/0 Comments/in Gift Guides, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntValentine’s Day is just days away. Bless you, if you are prepared and way ahead of the game. For the rest of us, it might be tempting to just ignore the day altogether and assume our spouses, kids, grandkids, friends, family, and co-workers, will think we forgot and give us a pass. I do not recommend that, however! The way I see it, we still have time, and that means options.
Make Sweet Treats
You have plenty of time to make sweet treats in your kitchen befitting the day. Check out Yummy Sweets to Make for Valentine’s Day.
Date Night
Plan a date with your love, even if your wallet is a little thin. Get creative to find reasonable and fun alternatives that require only pocket change—or with any luck, some that are absolutely free. I have a few ideas for you in Great Dates for Couples on a Tight Budget.
Plan a Fun Family Party
Here are 8 Fun Family Games for Valentine’s Day to get you started.
Give a Gift
Find the perfect little something for those special people in our lives—big and small—there is still plenty of time to do this, too. What follows are great gift ideas that are sure to please but won’t break the bank, divided into three categories. You can click on one to jump to that category or read straight through. Enjoy!
Best Valentine Gifts for Her
Pink Red Roses
Here it is—every procrastinator’s Valentine’s Day lifesaver! Choose from dozens of beautiful floral arrangements and bouquets, delivered in a vase just in time for Valentine’s day, just like you’d been planning for months! Guaranteed to be delivered on time, provided you order soon, like today. This deal will disappear when this guarantee cannot be met. Shipping to most addresses in the U.S. is included in the price.
This is a Sam’s Club deal, and it is time-sensitive. No membership is required, but if you are not a Sam’s Club member, you will need to register as a guest during your checkout process (you will be given the opportunity to become a member, but it is not required). Non-members pay 5% more. Order now—limited quantities. It will sell out quickly.
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Fruit Infuser Water Bottle
This beautiful deluxe infused water bottle comes in an equally beautiful tube-shaped gift box that nearly screams luxury. And such a pretty shade of blush.
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Pocket Mirror with Light, 1X/3X Rechargeable
35% Off. List: $20
Magnification compact vanity mirror, 3-color light, dimmable. So handy!
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35% Off. List: $20
In my lifetime I have lost an untold (unknown!) number of sunglasses. Some expensive, others cheap. Still, the amount of money I’ve spent on sunglasses remains unfathomable. The last purchase has not only been the least expensive (shockingly so), my SOJOS Classic Sunglasses are the best—fit, size, shade of darkness I have ever had—perfect in every way! I still can’t believe how much I love these sunglasses. Available in multiple colors, styles.
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Pink Luggage Tags
These attractive luggage tags are made of faux leather with cut-proof steel loops. The identification card with her personal information is hidden in the back cover to protect her privacy. While this pink shade is lovely, there are many other colors to choose from.
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Montana West Crossbody Bags for Women
Don’t miss the digital coupon! Price and coupon amounts vary by style and color, but all look to be fabulous deals!
Multi colors, styles. adjustable strap, rich look, nice feel, lots of pockets and sections. Lovely lining and super cute!
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Womens Memory Foam Slippers
25% Off List: $40
Lots of color choices, sizes 5 to 12; excellent reviews.
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Wine Glasses for Red and White Wine
Stemless wine glasses have insulated walls filled with cooling gel that works as a wine chiller when frozen. Pop a tumbler in the freezer for white wines or cool in the fridge to keep red wines at cellar temp.
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2 Metal Plant Hangers with 6-inch Pots
This minimalist hanging planter set will brighten up any room with its gently modern simplicity. Comes with the two metal hangers, pots, and cotton cord for hanging (no plants included). Choose gold, black, or white.
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Set of Four Mini Round Cocottes
Mini round set of cocottes made of stoneware with an enamel finish. Perfect for single servings of casseroles, mac n’ cheese, pot pies, cobblers, and other hot dishes. Oven Safe. Microwave Safe. Dishwasher Safe.
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Infinity 925 Silver Charm Bracelet
Pretty sterling silver adjustable bracelet with infinity design and choice of the color heart charm.
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Le Creuset Whistling Teakettle
A classic whistling tea kettle is and will forever be a thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift, especially for the tea-sipper who enjoys a good brew. And there is none better in quality and style than Le Creuset. Available in ten colors including red, teal, and matte white, this durable Le Creuset whistling teakettle enamel-on-steel will last for thousands of cups to come.
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Silk Pillowcase
100% pure mulberry silk protects her hair while sleeping and assists in anti-wrinkle and acne care. Hidden zipper and comes in a beautiful gift box. This Colorado Home Co Silk Pillowcase for Skin and Hair is made of high-grade mulberry silk, it is temperature regulating and breathable. A really nice gift.
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Electric Wine Bottle Opener
This is so slick! Rechargeable Electric Wine Bottle Opener easily removes corks in seconds. Compatible with most wine bottle sizes. Open up to 30 bottles on a single charge. Easy to use—simply place on top of your wine bottle, press a button, and ta-da! your wine is open and ready to serve. Every time I use mine, I am amazed by how easy (fun!) it is. Makes a fabulous gift.
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Sterling Silver Heart Earrings
Pure .925 sterling silver polished heart pull through hoop earrings are so lovely. Simple, elegant, and sure to be adored by your recipient. Anti0microbial and nickel free, these earrings are ideal for sensitive skin.
Don’t miss the 10% off digital coupon!
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Coffee Case for iPhone
Coffee is a good thing. In fact, for many of us coffee = love. So does this fun Coffee Case for iPhone with graphic gnomes. The phone case is a super cute gift option available for iPhones only that unabashedly signals your favorite connoisseur’s caffeine obsession.
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Flower Bouquet Pop-Up Card
Party card in a box! Stunning pop-up card with the most amazing floral design. No assembly required. This is so much fun—flowers that won’t wilt or fade away.
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Knitted Tweed Throw
46% Off; List $50
Super soft, plush with a textured look and feel, this 50 x 60″ decorative throw will become her favorite year-round blanket. The beautiful Home Soft Things Throw gets softer and softer after each wash without fading. Available in a wide range of colors and two sizes at a remarkably reasonable price. Such a lovely gift! I bought this in yellow several years ago and paid more than this, and love it still.
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Coffee Mug Set of 3
Adorable Valentine’s Day espresso mugs with ribbons are printed with cute and novelty elements. The patterns on the mini mugs are exquisite and unfading. The attractive design makes the tiny coffee mug set perfect for use and also for decorating.
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Vertical 3D Personalized Necklace
This super popular style features a 4-sided vertical bar of .925 sterling silver. Made with any name. Includes sterling silver chain and cleaning cloth. Choice of four chain lengths. Choice silver or gold plated silver. Really cool.
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Heart Waffle Maker
Makes a heart-shaped waffle that comes out perfect every time! Easy to use: Simply plug it in, wait 1-3 minutes until preheated and when the indicator light shuts off you can begin cooking.
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Pandora Knotted Heart Sterling Silver Bracelet
This Pandora Knotted Heart 925 Sterling Silver Bracelet is just beautiful—a very special piece. The heart-embellished toggle slips through the largest link to close. Complete for wear without additional charms.
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Journal and Pen Set
This beautiful gift set is a beautiful way to inspire young and adult women with kind words of encouragement. The cover is made of high-quality microfiber synthetic leather, Touch texture is better than most leather covers, with exquisite workmanship, soft feel, good wear resistance, and good elasticity. includes 120 sheets of high-quality paper. It makes for a great journal or organizer. Paired with a unique black gold signature pen that is attached to the gift box.
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Pink Tool Kit
Real tools, and pink, too! This lady’s home repairing tool set has it all from a hammer to perfect-size level; scissors, screwdriver with interchangeable bits, measuring tape, flashlight, razor knife, wrench, and more. And everything matches. WORKPRO is a reliable brand and this is an awesome kit because, well … matching storage bag! A perfect gift choice for a bride, seasoned mom, DIY wife or newly-minted homeowner.
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Pink Cordless Drill Set
May I just say this is about the coolest gift ever for any woman who likes to fix things—a pink power tool! Easy to use with its 2 speeds, Lithium-ion rechargeable battery, and set of drivers. Comes with a handy storage bag and thousands of verifiable 5-star reviews.
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Manicure Pedicure Grooming Kit
Speaking of tools, ladies need them for manicures and pedicures, too. And this set has all the tools she needs. The affordable price o this gift may belie its quality, but do not worry. This set is top-notch—a guaranteed winner.
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Her Soft Weekend Uniform
This soft, slouchy, cozy turtleneck lounger is sure to become her absolute favorite! It even has a big pocket. Pair it with leggings or jeans to run errands. Several yummy colors to choose from including pink! Easy care, polyester-nylon blend; machine washable.
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Soft Leather Shoulder Handbag
This beautiful leather bag is generous in size and comfy to carry. I love the multiple pockets and zipper compartments. Comes in a number of colors including beautiful Indigo Blue, as shown.
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Chunky Knit Throw for Home Decor
Big, chunky, handknit blankets are all the rage because they are so cuddly and soft. She’s going to think you knit this yourself and won’t you have fun with that! The 50×60-in size is perfect to keep warm on a cold winter night, available in several colors
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Best Valentine Gifts for Him
Survival Gear and Equipment Kit 14-in-1
The kit contains includes: a 3-mode flashlight, Handy Firestarter, Wire saw, Multi-functional saber card, Paracord bracelet, Water Bottle Clip, Emergency blanket. With over 1000 uses combined, this expertly assembled kit is the smartest and most compact survival kit of its kind.
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BLACK DECKER Cordless 20V Max Drill & Home Tool Kit
This 68-piece tool kit includes a 20V Lithium drill for a variety of home projects. Also includes a carrying bag for easy portability and storage.
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Hangry Kit Mega Essentials Snack Box
The ultimate box of snacks assortment. Sweet, savory, and salty options. Practical and fun, too! Great idea for your favorite teen’s school locker!
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Scratch Off Deluxe Travel World Map Poster
The most detailed and beautiful World scratch-off map on the market, this map features vibrant colors, accurate cartographic details, country flags, and landmarks. Printed on thick art paper and laminated.
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Crazy Hot Sauce Dice Game Set
Includes: 12 – .75oz – bottles of the hottest hot sauces, peppers and powders in the world. Each Crazy hot sauce adds an additional ingredient to the recipe to increase the heat level for a total of 12 sauces. Try all 12 if you dare! HOW TO PLAY: This is pretty much a twisted version of the classic game of dice but with a set of the hottest hot sauces around. Just roll both dice and taste the hot sauce that number corresponds to. Challenge yourself to try all the sauces or play with others until there’s 1 crazy left standing!
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Fogless Shower Mirror
Sure to become any man’s favorite thing ever. Allows for fogless shaving in the shower, no batteries required; no suction cups either. Guaranteed to be fogless for life. No annoying fog-free sprays ever. Easy mounting with removable silicone adhesive and double-sided tape. Amazing, which makes the Fogless Shower Mirror a great man’s gift.
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Minimalist Wallet
A front pocket minimalist wallet is really hot these days among the hip and cool guys. It’s very thin and compact, designed to fit in a man’s jeans front pocket, making it more secure and comfortable. 100% genuine leather.
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Bose Audio Sunglasses
In your choice of two styles, these cool sunglasses include built-in Bose speakers that produce rich, immersive sound for your Valentine, while others hear practically nothing. Open-ear audio allows him to stay aware of his surroundings while enjoying his music. Integrated microphone for clear calls and access to his phone’s virtual assistant.
Personalized settings, access to future updates, and more available through the Bose Connect app. Bluetooth connectivity for easy pairing. Lenses block up to 99% of UVA/UVB rays. Not cheap, but oh what a great gift!
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Beard Grooming Kit
20% Off List: $19.91
You know what they say about beards, “They grow on you!” But at some point he’s going to need to do some manscaping otherwise he’ll start looking like a caveman. This all-in-one kit has everything he’ll need to help maintain his scruffy beard.
All products and tools pictured are packed in a luxury metal gift box and include a beard shaping tool, beard shampoo, oil, balm, brush, comb, scissors, and more. Great gift for your bearded Valentine!
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Swiss Army Pocket Knife
He will add functionality to his keychain by attaching this Victorinox Swiss army pocket knife. This pint-size yet very capable pocket knife boasts a small blade, a nail file, and a pair of sharp scissors. Choose from 31 colors.
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Best Valentine Gifts for Kids
Princess Necklace Activity Set
She can design her own Disney Princess necklaces with this fun, easy-to-use jewelry kit. Simply slide on the beads and character charms. So cute! Age 3 – 10.
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Valentines Day Teddy Bear
This mix of red and tan plush stuffed Teddy Bear is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Cuddly 10-inch teddy bear is hugging a red heart-shaped pillow. Impossible not to love this little guy!
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Bearington Bear
His full name is Bearington Lil’ Cutie and the most cuddly Valentine’s day 14-inch stuffed animal imaginable! Makes a perfect I love you or Happy Valentine’s Day gift for boys, girls—kids of all ages.
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Chunky Jewelry Set
This chunky bubblegum bead jewelry pair is both fun and fashionable for young girls not only for Valentine’s Day but all through the year, too.
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Oh, I Love You Just Like This!
In this sweet little book of love, Elmo’s mommy wants to tell Elmo “I love you” in as many ways as she can. Join Elmo and his friends as they learn about expressing love, joy, and gratitude for loved ones. Age: 3 – 7 years.
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Big Sprinkle Donut Reversible Sequin Pillow
This magical color-changing pillow cover is a great gift for most kids and younger teens. Super fun!
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Oh, this is so much for anyone age 5 years and up. Much like color or paint by number, each design is divided into dozens of spaces. Each space has a number that corresponds to a sticker. Find the sticker, peel it, and place it in the right space. Watch as a full-color image emerges from the original unfinished illustration. Age: 5 – 99 yrs.
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Love Frog Stuffy
Cutest little Webkinz limited edition stuffed frog ever, with love and kisses all over it. Super cute! Good-sized stuffy for the kids at 7-inches and not overstuffed, which makes it cuddly for kids of all ages.
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Big Sleeping (Hugging) Puppy Pillow
This plush puppy is supersize and extra soft! At 20-inches long, he’s the perfect size for hugs and cuddles. Puppy has embroidered paw prints and eyes and such a cute sleepy, lazy expression on its face. Absolutely adorable, practical, too.
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Roses Are Pink Your Feet Really Stink
Love to hear your young readers giggle? Whether they read it themselves or you read it to them, this cute story about Gilbert, a fuzzy-looking woodland creature who comes up with “nice” rhymes for his classmates will bring out the laughter while teaching about kindness and forgiveness.
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Perfect Sock Monkey
This 20-inch soft plush sock monkey is adorable and quite funny, too. Choose from the traditional brown, or a dozen other colors. Prices range from $17 to $26 depending on your choice.
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Happy Valentine’s Day Blank Sketchbook
Kids of all ages love to doodle and draw. Here’s a fun sketchpad that will let them keep their creations together in a safe place. No kid can ever have too many sketchbooks!
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2-Day Delivery
You can get 2-day delivery for most of these gifts by using Amazon Prime, but you need to hurry! Not a Prime member? No problem. Start your 30-free trial today, place your order, get delivery, then cancel within 30 days. You will not be charged, yet enjoy all of the Prime benefits including 2-day shipping. It’s legal and ethical; in fact, Amazon encourages us to do this.
Everyday Cheapskate participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
Yummy Sweets to Make for Valentine’s Day
/2 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntFriends. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Thankfully, we have several days and one big, beautiful weekend between now and then—plenty of time to make fabulous homemade treats and sweets!
Pie in a Jar
A single serving of pie—made in, baked in, and eaten from any small Mason-type canning jar—was surely invented just for Valentine’s Day, especially if that’s cherry pie! Don’t worry, though.
You can adapt this idea to any kind of pie, even cream pie, lemon meringue, pumpkin. You name it! And it doesn’t have to be a canning jar. You can do this in a small ramekin or any small vessel that can take oven heat.
A tiny pie in a jar is easy and fun to make. All you need is a pie crust and a filling. Use your favorite pastry and pie recipes, then scale them down. Make the bottom crust in the jar just as you would a regular-sized pie.
Top with a filling, and add a top crust if desired. Adjust bake time, and you’re good to go! You can find a complete photo tutorial for how to make Pie in a Jar HERE.
Mini Pies in a Jar Lid
Yes, a jar lid! While mini pies in a jar are single-serving size, these little pies made in a wide-mouth jar lid are even smaller—more like one amazing, decadent bite! Just perfect.
Go to MennoniteGirlsCanCook.ca for recipes and a complete tutorial. You’ll be turning out dozens of these small pies in no time at all.
News You Can Use – February 2024
/Updated /0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary Hunt2-29-23
Do You Really Need Annual Physical?
A growing number of physicians say the value of a yearly physical depends in part on your age and health history, and that some young, healthy patients can afford to skip it … Full Article
How to Thrive Under Stress
Every day, you encounter stressors. Some are genuine, such as unexpectedly being called into your boss’s office when your company is going through layoffs. Some aren’t quite so serious, like when you’re stuck in traffic. And some are in-between, like when you’re stuck in traffic on your way to catch a flight. All that stress can add up, and how you cope will impact the strain you put on your nervous system … Full Article
Plastic Industry Fooling Us About Recycling
If we all recycled we would be able to stop the plastic pollution crisis, right? According to a new report, recycling has never been a viable solution to manage plastic waste, nor will it ever be. And, apparently, efforts to make us believe the contrary have been part of a careful, decades-long campaign to sway public opinion about the pitfalls of plastic recycling and to protect the plastic industry … Full Article
2-28-24
Target Launches New Value Brand
Target is taking aim at budget-conscious customers with a new inexpensive brand with prices for everyday basics that start at less than $1. The move comes as traditional retailers of cheaper items, like Dollar Stores, feel pressure from their own customer base being forced to cut back.
A new in-house value brand called “Dealworthy” is rolling out this month to shelves at Target stores nationwide and online with 400 items, ranging from phone chargers to disposable plates and even underwear, taking aim at competitors like dollar stores and Amazon Basics … Full Article
FTC Goes After H & R Block
Apparently, the complaint outlines unfair deletion of tax data when consumers attempt to downgrade to more affordable products … Full Article
Leap Day Deals and Freebies
Many of these deals are Feb. 29–themed. Think lobster dinners for $29 and hotel stays for 29% off. And if you’re born on leap day, you’re really in luck. Some of the best leap year deals and freebies are available exclusively to “leaplings.” Best birthday ever! … All the deals
2-27-24
Update: Kroger Albertsons Merger
Yesterday, the Federal Trade Commission sued to block the largest proposed supermarket merger in U.S. history—Kroger Company’s $24.6 billion acquisition of the Albertsons Companies, Inc.—alleging that the deal was anti-competitive. …Full Article
Google Search Turning Up Some Wrong Answers
Have you noticed lately that some of your Google searches have steered you wrong? There’s a reason for that.
Spammers are using artificial intelligence tools to create an ocean of content, and Google’s algorithms are ranking some of those robot-generated pages ahead of the information you actually need and can trust. (Word to the wise: Trust but verify!) … Full Article
Free Entertainment
Eggs were laid on Jan 25, Jan 28, and Jan 31. Pip watch begins Feb.29. But the nest cam is streaming 24/7. Such a beautiful event. It’s fun to see how Daddy Shadow and Mama Jackie prepare for the impending family expansion. They argue (I’m sure it’s about baby names) and genuinely care for one another. I just witnessed Shadow leaving to hunt, returning with a fish in his beak. Then patiently waiting for Jackie to get ready for her dinner, transferring the fresh seafood to her beak … Live Stream
USPS Scam Warning
This is a warning to watch out for delivery notices that claim the post office, UPS, or FedEx couldn’t deliver a particular package. They’ll have you click a link for more information or call a particular phone number. Don’t fall for it … Video
2-26-24
Tricks Restaurants Use To Make You Spend More
While successful restaurants and chains do indeed rake in the cash, you need to rake in an awful lot of it if you plan to remain in business. Margins are shockingly thin, averaging about 7% bottom-line profit across the industry as a whole. That doesn’t allow for much room for error or inefficiency.
Here are some of the top tricks they use, from a former restaurateur who’s used a few of them himself … Full Article
Almost Scammed into Refinancing
A Charlotte, N.C. man says he was stunned when he learned that scammers tried to refinance his home. Someone got his personal information, including his driver’s license, and applied for refinancing in his name. He’d already paid off his home. Read how that worked … Full Article
Chocolate Price Hikes on the Way
Cocoa prices have roughly doubled over the past year, hitting a series of record highs in recent weeks due to shrinking supplies. Chocolate makers had been passing the rising costs on to consumers without losing much demand … Full Article
2-24-24
Chase Customers Sue
JPMorgan Chase was sued by customers who accused the largest U.S. bank of having unfairly charged fees when they deposited checks that, through no fault of their own, bounced.
In a proposed class action filed on Tuesday night, five customers said New York-based Chase docked $12 “deposited item returned fees” from their accounts when checks they tried to deposit were returned unpaid … Full Article
Consumers Tired of Price Increases
Big brands are paying attention. Sellers of everything from condiments to pet food are hitting the limits of how far they can hike prices before shoppers turn away … Full Article
Before You Buy a Hybrid, EV, or PHEV
If you’ve been shopping for an electric car, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid, you’ve probably come across some words you might be unfamiliar with, even if you already know a lot about cars. In this article the words you need to know before buying, charging, driving … Full Article
2-23-24
Nutrition Marketing Can Mislead
Research has found that nutrition-related marketing tactics are nearly universal among fruit drinks. Claims like “100% All Natural” lead consumers to incorrectly believe a product is free of added sugar. This phenomenon, known as the “health halo” effect, occurs when a single marketing promise leads consumers to believe a product is healthy when it isn’t … Full Article
Putting Too Much on Credit Cards
Credit card delinquencies surged more than 50% in 2023 as total consumer debt swelled to $17.5 trillion, the New York Federal Reserve reported Tuesday.
Debt that has transitioned into “serious delinquency,” or 90 days or more past due, increased across multiple categories during the year, but none more so than credit cards … Full Article
Charging More ‘Excess’ Interest Than Ever
Credit card companies are hiking rates to record highs to pad their profits, according to a government report released Thursday.
An analysis by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau finds that the share of annual percentage rates (APR) that reflects what card companies charge beyond their own lending costs has nearly doubled in the last decade. That cost borrowers an estimated $25 billion in 2023 alone … Full Article
2-22-24
Massive cellular outage hits AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon
AT&T customers woke up Thursday morning only to realize they couldn’t make any phone calls. More than 70,000 customers were without cellular service and internet, according to the outrage report website Downdetector — and it appears as though they’re still without service in the late morning on the East Coast. Most of the outages were reported by customers located in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles. Latest updates … Full Article
What are the healthiest fruits?
According to government guidelines, fruit, along with vegetables, should form the cornerstone of your diet. Yet, the reality is that a mere 12% of adults meet the recommended 1 ½ to 2 cups of fruit (or the equivalent) daily.
Blueberries take the title of healthiest fruit in the top healthiest fruits. Blueberries’ stunning hue comes from their anthocyanins — an antioxidant believed to be responsible for their numerous health benefits. Long-term studies suggest that including blueberries in your regular lineup may lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Blueberries may also improve cognitive performance and strengthen your brainpower … Full Article
$20,000 Bonus for Opening a New Account?! (There’s a catch!)
Bank account sign-up bonuses are nothing new to the world of financial services. A couple hundred here, $50 there — you get the idea. But a $20,000 bonus? That’s the level of sign-up bonus we don’t see much of.
At Chicago-based investment platform M1, users can get $20,000 added to their accounts for simply making a transfer. But it comes with a big catch: Multi-millionaires are the only ones getting this chunk of change. M1 requires you to transfer $7 million or more from another brokerage account before the promotional March 31 deadline to earn that $20,000 😂 … Full Article
2-21-24
Shopping for the Best Deal?
These retailers price match or make price adjustments … Full Article
Why Are Brown Eggs More Expensive?
The color of an egg’s shell is determined by the breed of chiken that lays it. Eggs with a brown shell often cost more than those with a white shell because they’re usually laid by a larger breed of hen that requires more food, which makes the eggs more expensive for farmers to produce. But there’s no nutritional, size, or environmental advantage to brown eggs … Full Article
FCC Bans AI Generated Voices in Robocalls
Bad actors are using AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls to extort vulnerable family members, imitate celebrities, and misinform voters. As of Feb. 8, 2024, such activity is illegal … Full Article
2-20-24
R U Financially Healthy?
Seven signs you’re financially healthy even if you don’t feel like it — how many do you have?
Consider these often overlooked factors to get a clearer picture of where you stand with your money …Full Article
10 Costco Shopping Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make
A Costco shopping trip isn’t just any ordinary errand. It’s an exciting and invigorating experience that’s sure to result in a few unanticipated purchases. While it might not seem possible, there are too many mistakes Costco shoppers make (even some of the most loyal ones, believe it or not). Here’s the thing: It’s not hard to take advantage of all Costco has to offer. If you want to be the smartest shopper, these ten mistakes to avoid can help you not only save money, but take advantage of deeper deals and special services, too … Full Article
Retail Returns Fraud
Unveiling the retail reality —returns fraud grips consumers and challenges industry stability. Despite 84% of consumers saying they have not and would not commit fraud, a large number are unclear on what actually qualifies. Nearly a third of respondents (31%) think using an item then returning it as unused doesn’t count as fraud, although 57% do think that it’s unethical …Full Article
2-19-24
Prescription Medication Shortages
Americans continue to face prescription medication shortages, but they’re also struggling to find over-the-counter medicine and medical equipment. Louisiana, West Virginia and Alaska are the states hardest hit by medical shortages.
Many Americans are simply going without their meds, or buying expensive substitutes.
Prescription medication shortages are the most problematic type of shortage for people across the country… Full Article
Blue Bunny No Longer Real Ice Cream
Blue Bunny ice cream has been a rebel. When other brands downsized to 56 ounces, they stayed at half a gallon. Subsequently when the industry moved to a 48-ounce container, Blue Bunny didn’t follow. But ultimately, they did conform to the now standard 48-ounce size.
The company also saw other brands in the ice cream business like Breyer’s convert some of their real ice cream flavors to “frozen dairy desserts” — a product no longer allowed by federal law to be called “ice cream” because it has less than the required 10% milkfat.
Well, so much for that noble stance. (Even the best of us would not likely spot the change) … Full Article
How the Pros Do It
You don’t need a thermometer to nail your next ribeye. Use the gadget-free method that chefs use to tell when steak is perfectly cooked … Full Article
2-17-24
iPhone’s New Stolen Device Protection
The new iphone option feature that kicks into action when your iPhone is stolen has a fatal flaw (but you can fix it!) … Full Article
Still Get a 3% Home Mortgage?
Millions of home buyers can avoid high interest rates by snapping up existing low-rate mortgages—in theory. Doing so in practice is filled with obstacles.
Loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs have provisions allowing them to be transferred from home sellers to buyers, or “assumed.” In other words: Even in a world of 7% mortgage rates, a buyer can get a 3% mortgage if he or she takes someone else’s … Full Article
The Case of the Costco Couch
A woman named Jackie shares that she bought a couch from Costco over two and a half years ago, in a video posted last week that’s attracted nearly 3 million views! … Full Article
Flying Umbrella!
It follows you around in the rain. The new invention is the work of an engineer behind the ‘I Build Stuff’ YouTube channel. The homemade contraption includes an adapted yellow shop-bought umbrella and 3D printed components with propellers on the end… Full Article
2-16-24
Pleasant Smells May Treat Depression
You might walk into a store and are met with an aroma that triggers pleasant memories and takes you back to a “happy place.” Researchers have now concluded that experience can be harnessed to treat depression … Full Article
What Bills Can Consumers Negotiate?
Consumers have more power over their finances than they realize. Especially in the billing department.
If people can successfully negotiate with medical providers, are there other bills that might be subject to a reduction? We corralled some consumer savings experts to find out and, as it turns out, there are plenty.
Just look at this list of possibilities: Cable, cell phone, and internet plans; credit cards; and insurance … Full Article
Spring Fling Flights on SW
Southwest Airlines has launched a Spring Travel Sale, offering discounted flights starting as low as $49 one-way.
This sale is available for travel dates ranging from late February to late May 2024, with specific travel windows varying depending on the destination. The sale includes flights across Southwest’s network, including domestic travel within the United States and to select international destinations such as Mexico and the Caribbean… Full Article
2-15-24
Free Tax Preparation Help for Seniors (Not a Scam!)
We bet you barely have time to do your own taxes, much less help your older adult with theirs (ugh). That makes it the perfect time to get free tax preparation help from IRS-certified volunteers… Full Article
Costly ‘Human Error’
The retiree is so distressed she can’t sleep. She appealed the repayment order but was denied three times — and sadly, her story is not uncommon. Here’s why Americans are receiving overpayment notices from the SSA … Full Article
Protect Yourself Against Scams
“Before I got scammed, it wasn’t really something I worried about. I knew I wasn’t immune, but I figured I’d see through a serious fraud if one came along. I never responded to weird texts; I blocked and reported phishing emails claiming to be from Geek Squad. Occasionally someone would get ahold of my credit card information and buy random stuff with it, but it was always resolved quickly. It was, at worst, a minor nuisance, a small price to pay for digital conveniences…” Full Story
2-14-24
And Now a College Professor
This college professor fell for a scam that drained her life savings. It was by someone impersonating the chair of the Federal Trade Commission who said her money was in danger.
She was threatened with arrest (for money-laundering and child porn) and with breaking the law if she told anyone (children, friends, banks). She was told that the people threatening her savings would be caught if the government “secured my money.” Once the case was closed, her money would be returned … Full Article
Money Advice from TikToc?
TikTok is full of money tips. But how reliable are they? Younger U.S. adults are flocking to social media for advice on how to handle their money, seeking and sharing information on a range of personal finance topics, or sometimes just commiserating about the kind of financial challenges Gen-Zers and millennials face … Full Article
10 Things to Do if Your Identity Is Stolen
If you’re a victim of identity theft, follow these steps to protect yourself … Full Article
2-13-24
Widow Loses Life Savings and Sues Bank
She lost more than $700,000, her life savings, after a man befriended her and became romantic through text messages. Now she alledges her bank should have stopped her from sending him money … a lot of money … Full Article
No Preservatives?
Products which state they contain no preservatives, but according to the FDA … they do? Check it out … Full Article
Eating Out is Now a Luxury
If you’ve opted to cook a romantic meal at home with your partner this Valentine’s Day — no matter how it comes out — know that you’re saving a decent amount of money compared to couples dining out.
Even excluding pricey Valentine’s Day menus, it’s becoming increasingly cheaper for Americans to eat at home instead of dining out, according to January Consumer Price Index data. That’s because prices for groceries are up 1.2% year over year, while the price of food consumed at restaurants is up 5.1% … Full Article
2-12-24
Car Insurance Spikes
This year, expect to pay more for your car insurance. Even though inflation has been slowing down, car insurance costs have gone up. Since 2023, car insurance rates have surged 26%, and they’ll likely remain elevated until 2025, according to Bankrate’s True Cost of Auto Insurance Report. The report determined the annual cost for full coverage car insurance in 2024 to be $2,543, compared to $2,014 in 2023 and $1,771 in 2022. For someone earning the median household income of $74,580, that’s 3.41% of their entire income … Full Article
7 Thrifting Trends Taking Over 2024
There’s something magical about discovering the perfect thrift store find. It’s partially luck, partially strategy, and partially dedication to the hunt. What are the thrifting trends for the new year? What secondhand home decor items should thrifting enthusiasts be nabbing before everyone else does? Here’s what the pro advise … Full Article
Tax season is here, so are the scammers
IRS is warning about the new ‘refund’ letters scammers are sending and text messages about your “tax refund” or “tax refund e-statement” that look as official as it can get in hopes of tricking people into clicking on the image’s link so that they can steal from you.
They tell you to click a link —supposedly to check on your ‘tax refund e-statement’ or ‘fill out a form to get your refund.’ But it’s a scam and if you click that link, the scammer might steal your identity or put malware on your phone or computer… Full Article
2-11-24
CC Debt Hits New High
Credit card debt has notched another new high. Average credit card balances jump 10% to a record $6,360 as more consumers fall behind on payments. Americans now owe $1.08 trillion on their credit cards, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported Tuesday.
Consumers are just spending more. Even though the inflation rate is down, that doesn’t mean prices are coming down. Full Article
Now to Get Stronger WiFi Signal
There are few things quite as frustrating as a crummy WiFi connection. Before you run out to buy a new router, try these tips for improving the signal throughout your home … Full Article
Estate and Inheritance Taxes
Nothing in this world is certain but death and taxes, Benjamin Franklin said. But even death can’t bring relief from taxes. Yes, death can be a tax-triggering event. And there are two you should be aware of … Full Article
2-10-24
Fed Up!
Food companies have been passing along higher labor and ingredient costs to consumers long after inflation peaked at 9.1% in June 2022. Diners are getting fed up, eating less fast food and griping on social media that their go-to cheap meals aren’t so cheap anymore. McDonald’s, for example, has faced criticism for one franchise location’s $18 Big Mac meal … Full Article
Super Bowl Ads
It seems like every celebrity on the planet makes an appearance! Here are the most talked about Super Bowl ads of 2024 … Full Article
Guaranteed On-Time Delivery
If they don’t give a specific time, your order must ship within 30 days. When shipping will be delayed, the seller has to let you know about it,” Cristina Miranda, consumer education specialist at the FTC notes. “Sellers also have to give you the choice to either accept the delay or cancel your order for a full refund … Full Article
2-8-24
Smart Toothbrushes HACKED!?
Three million smart toothbrushes reportedly hacked in massive DDoS attack. However it may or may not have actually occurred as there’s no official record of this attack taking place. Regardless of whether or not millions of smart toothbrushes were actually used in a large-scale DDoS attack, this story still highlights the dangers posed by smart home devices. Story developing and you can follow the Full Article.
UP $50b in 3 Months
Credit card debt in the United States increased by $50 billion in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to recent findings from the New York Federal Reserve.
The latest report, released Tuesday, found the total credit card balances stood at $1.13 trillion by the end of December, which is about a 4.6 percent increase from the third quarter of 2023. This appears to be the highest credit card balance since at least 2003, according to the state’s Federal Reserve data… Full Article
How To Write a Book (and Get a Publisher!)
This is for the hundreds (thousands?) of people who’ve written to me over the years, asking how to write a book AND get it published. One of the best literary agents has written that book for me!
In her new book, literary agent Lucinda Halpern shares how to get signed with an agent and how to get a book deal. There are three keys to getting an agent and a subsequent book deal … Full Article
2-7-24
Victory for EU Farmers
The European Union has caved in to angry protests from farmers, cutting its target to scrap specific agricultural emissions which formed part of the bloc’s net zero drive.
A demand to reduce nitrogen, methane and other emissions linked to farming by almost a third has been removed from a wider Brussels plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 90 per cent by 2040. A recommendation urging EU citizens to eat less meat was also removed from the plan … Full Article
Toilet Lid Up or Down?
Do you flush with the lid open or closed? When it comes to germs, it might not matter.
Just like the great debate over which way the toilet paper roll goes, there is a similar spat over flushing: lid open or closed? Scientists have weighed in with their own woeful conclusion … Full Article
Venmo, Zelle, Cash App Scam
Imagine walking down the sidewalk and being confronted at gunpoint by a crook. Open the payment app on your phone and transfer out your hard-earned cash, or take a bullet in the head. That’s one phone cash ripoff scenario of many playing out in real-life America.
Do you use mobile payment apps like Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App to send and receive money? If so, you’re not alone. These peer-to-peer payment services now handle an estimated $1 trillion in payments.
Mobile payment apps have some security features to help protect you, but they are not enough, and you should not rely on them alone. If you absolutely cannot live without these things (please reconsider), you should also do these 10 things: Full Article
Greyhound Closing Stations
Greyhound stations were once a big part of America. Now, many of them are being shut. Ironically, as bus stations have withered, buses themselves have gone upscale. They now offer power, Wi-Fi and free movies to laptop-toting riders, who can book in advance and reserve seats. That’s no substitute, though, for a comfortable place to wait between buses … Full Article
2-6-24
Dangerous Effect of Mixed Reality
Mixed reality headsets are becoming all the rage, sparking a dangerous phenomenon termed “social absence.” This study details how passthrough video could alter perception, limiting peripheral vision and presenting a “funhouse mirror” effect that distorts reality. Users reported difficulties with simple tasks like giving high fives or eating, as the technology’s limitations led to misjudgments in distance and object size … Full Article
Real Reason Grocery Bill is Still So High
Inflation in the U.S.is easing across many industries, and yet food prices overall have remained stubbornly high. In fact, inflation in the grocery industry has been higher than in other industries, rising 25 percent over the past four years compared to 19 percent overall, and many have pointed to simple greed as the reason
Not only is that an indication of a deep rot at the heart of the food industry, agribusinesses, and corporate grocery chains, but it is also a clear sign that we need to repair our entire food system… Full Article
Menu Psychology 101
Some restaurants hire menu consultants to help them design their menus using all the basic tenets of menu psychology so you spend more money.
Once you take a peek inside what the industry calls “menu engineering,” you’ll never be able to unsee them … Full Article
2-5-24
Super Bowl Spoiler Alert
Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT are trained on trillions of points of information. They are also capable of processing statistics and information quickly so, given the NFL’s never-ending stats supply, I thought I’d see if AI could use that to predict the winner of Super Bowl LVIII (here’s the winner) … Full Article
IKEA’s Prices Are Dropping in 2024
So, what happened to make IKEA change their furniture prices? Mostly, the cost of materials and transportation lowered significantly in 2023. IKEA has promised to share profits with customers. They’re serious about finding the best prices possible; they’ve already invested over one billion dollars into re-pricing their current stock … Full Article
Mike Rowe on College Degrees
Rowe argues the traditional perception of a college degree — once a testament to one’s intellect, wisdom and knowledge — has drastically deteriorated. Harvard grads are taking their ‘degrees off the wall’ — is welding, pipe fitting or HVAC a better path to six figures? Full Article
Got a Story?
Remember those Chicken Soup for the Soul books? They’re still around, and right now they’re calling for story submissions based on topics like cats, dogs, the power of positive thinking and more. If your story is chosen, you’ll receive a check for $250. Full Article
2-4-24
IRS Free File
The 2024 tax filing season kicked off earlier this week. Whether you’ve already begun preparing your Tax Year 2023 tax return, or you’re just getting started , you might want to check out this IRS program that allows millions of Americans to file their federal tax returns for free. You can get started with it right now. Full Article
Metro’s $20 Home Internet Has No Catch? Ha!
Metro by T-Mobile is a prepaid cell service provider (formerly Metro PCS) that also offers 5G home internet. In its commercial that began running last month, they promise an unbelievable deal — only $20 a month for internet service. And they say there are no catches and no “exploding bills.” Well, don’t believe it! The details are always in the fine print … Full Article
Emergency Savings
Americans rang in the new year under much better economic circumstances than experts expected, thanks to falling inflation and strong employment figures. But despite the surprisingly strong economy, many Americans still don’t have enough savings for a rainy day.
Only 44 percent of U.S. adults say they would pay an emergency expense of $1,000 or more from their savings, according to a new Bankrate survey… Full Article
2-3-24
How to Prepare for Weather Emergency
If a mandatory evacuation is announced as a storm approaches, you should know what to do to your home before you leave. Read more about preparing your home before evacuating ahead of a storm. Full Article
Pickle Juice
Pickle juice does end leg cramps — but not for the reason you think. Full Article
Hot Deals – February 2024
/Updated /in Home & Family /by Mary HuntAll details were accurate at the time of publishing. Remember things can and do change quickly when it comes to hot deals! As an Amazon Associate, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. If you don’t see the correct discounted price, so sorry!
2-29-24
Melissa Doug Burrow Bunny Rabbit Stuffed Animal
32% Off (List $19)
The Melissa & Doug Burrow Bunny Rabbit Stuffed Animal features long floppy ears with extra-soft plush fur and realistic-looking features.
Claritin 24hr Non Drowsy Allergy Relief 100ct
Be sure to clip the 30% digital coupon to get this $26.50 deal!
2-28-24
2-27-24
Hoover ONEPWR Stick Vac
21% Off
Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet cordless small upright vacuum cleaner, lightweight stick vac for low pile carpet and hard floor. Super long runtime on a single charge.
Replaceable battery, too! This is an EC favorite, and today, it’s priced at the lowest we’ve seen. You will not be disappointed.
MORE: The 4 Vacuums I Use Almost Every Day and Still Absolutely Swear By
Shark Navigator Lift Away Vacuum
. 25% Off (List $200)
Such a great upright vacuum! This continues to be EC Best Inexpensive vacuum.
eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX
Be sure to clip the $100 digital coupon! That brings the price to $149 at checkout.
2-24-24
Women’s Crew Neck Balloon-Sleeve Sweater
Clip the 10% off digital coupon. Then, with the automatic 50% discount at the final stage of checkout, the final cost will be around $17.10 shipped. Reg. $45.99
*Note that if the discount doesn’t automatically apply, you can try using promo code 50FOYRX1 to get the savings!
2-22-24
Packing Cubes for Travel,
40% Off digital coupon (make sure you clip it!) brings final price for 8-Piece Compression Packing Cubes & Travel Bag to only $19.79! 4 color choices. (Limit 1)
EF ECOFLOW Portable Power Station DELTA Max 2000
37% Off (List $1,899)
2016Wh Expandable Capacity Portable Generator, Solar Generator for Home Backup, Emergency, Outdoor Camping
NOCO Car Battery Jump Starter
35% Off (List: $250)
UltraSafe Car Battery Jump Starter, 12V Battery Booster Pack, Jump Box, Portable Charger and Jumper Cables for 8.0L Gasoline and 6.0L Diesel Engines. 1000s 5-star reviews!
2-19-74
12-Pak Jumbo Plastic Easter Eggs with Pull Back Construction Vehicles
60% Off (List: $40)
Roll Up Dish Drying Rack
38% Off (List $13).
Not an Amazon Prime Member? Sign up for a FREE 30-day trial here! Take advantage of it now, and you can cancel before trial is up. Not a problem, says Amazon.
Dog Bark Deterrent Device Stops Bad Behavior
45% Off (List $60).
GREAT reviews! No need to yell or swat, just point to a dog (own or neighbor’s) hit the button. Long-range ultrasonic alternative to painful dog shock collar.
2-17-74
5-Piece Silicone Spatula Set
Read Carefully: When you use this exclusive Amazon link and put a 12-Pak into your shopping cart, you will trigger a 15% discount off the Reg. $39.99 price, but you will not see this until final checkout.
(If for some reason the discount does not automatically apply, you can use promo code 508XHXC4 at checkout to get the final price of $7.49. This is a limited time offer, by the way!)
Trendy Slides for Women Men
Through Feb. 20, you can get these Whitin Buckle Pillow Slides for just $12.49 (regularly $25) after an automatic 50% Off at checkout! Lots of colors, styles, sizes!
To getthe savings, make sure to use this exclusive Amazon link. Note the discount won’t kick in until the final stage of checkout.
*depending on style/color
Rowenta Perfect Steam Station
30% Off (List $300). You all know I love to iron, right? Trust me, this is more than a steam iron. It is a steam station! Oh, my!
iPhone Charger Fast 20w
Sale $9.99; (List $30)
DON’T MISS: Clip the 50% Off digital coupon to bring the price down to just $4.99. That’s 83% Off!
Robot Vacuum
Sale $130; List $200.
Read Carefully: To get the final price of $69.69 (65% OFF) you must clip the $20 Off digital coupon AND use code AKHTSZNO at checkout.
2-12-24
Duncan Hines Best Sellers
Lots of DH sweetest treat mixes are on Sale right now, and just in time for Valentine’s Day.
One example:
More Duncan Hines deals HERE.
3-in-1 Travel MagSafe Charger
81% Off; List $170
I’m a sucker for quality wireless chargers. My favorite is still in my imagination where my entire desktop is just one big magsafe charger. So while some really smart techy person is developing that, the next best thing is a handy 3-in-1 MagSafe fold-up, travel charger that can charge all of my Apple gadgets (non-Apple too).
2-10-24
Rotora Small Sling Bag
Through February 17th, hurry over to Amazon where you can snag a Rotora Small Sling Bag Crossbody for only $12.99 (regularly $25.99) after an automatic 50% off discount during checkout. Lots of color choices.
To get the savings, use this exclusive Amazon link. Note: The discount won’t kick in until the final stage of checkout.
First Aid Antiseptic Cleansing Foam for Kids
50% Off List: $6.74
Clean and disinfect your little one’s minor wounds with Band-Aid Brand Antiseptic Cleansing Foam for Kids. Formulated with the antimicrobial agent benzalkonium chloride, this foaming antiseptic effectively kills germs to help prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Stanley 40oz QuencherTumbler
40 oz Quencher H2.0 offers maximum hydration with fewer refills. Keep your favorite beverage hot, cold, or iced for hours thanks to the Adventure Quencher’s double-wall vacuum insulation. A rotating lid on this stainless steel tumbler gives you the choice of a straw opening, wide mouth, and a full-cover top to prevent spills. 56% Off List $57.84
2-9-24
Chelsea Boots for Women—UPDATE
Get an automatic 50% off on eligible items at the final stage of checkout. Lots of styles, sizes, colors. Must use this exclusive Amazon link
2-8-24
Live Succulents Heart-Shape DIY Kit
A perfect gift for the succulent lover, the DIY succulent heart kit comes with a 6-inch heart planter, nine 2-inch plants (eight fit in planter, an extra just in case), mini pebbles, a watering cup and care instructions.
Precision Tweezers Set 4 pc
60% Off List: $10
High precision stainless steel eyebrow tweezers for facial Hair, inward growing hair and splinter remover kit, suitable for women and men, 4-Piece Set.
Vacuum Sealer Machine
70% Off List $140.
To get the $26.99 price you must clip the 20% digital coupon AND use code 50IYK5XG at checkout!
2-7-24
SOJOS Classic Round Sunglasses
42% Off; List $22
In my lifetime I have lost an untold (unknown!) number of sunglasses. Some expensive, others cheap. Still, the amount of money I’ve spent on sunglasses remains unfathomable. The last purchase has not only been the least expensive (shockingly so), my SOJOS Classic Sunglasses are the best—fit, size, weight, shade of darkness I have ever owned—perfect in every way! I still can’t believe how much I love these sunglasses. Available in multiple colors, styles, shades.
Huge Adidas President’s Day Sale!
From winter jackets to sneakers, Amazon is offering a wide variety of Adidas deals on men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel. After discount, deals start as low as $8.
VIEW DEALS from $8Amazon’s President’s Day Preview Sale
Amazon’s Presidents’ Day preview sale just went live. The sitewide sale is offering big discounts on everything from PS5 bundles to noise-cancelling headphones. As expected, there are also a handful of solid from laptops to electronics, kids t-shirts, and household stuff.
2-6-24
Stainless Steel Balloon Whisk
56% Off List: $9
From Martha Stewart, a satin-finish stainless steel whisk means durability for everyday use. Comfortable, lightweight hollow handle provides comfort and control and help reduce wrist fatigue.
Cetaphil Face Day Cream with SPF30
61% Off ; List: $20
Instantly hydrates and improves skin tone diminishing appearance of hyperpigmentation and prevents new dark spots from forming.
ChapStick Classic Original Lip Balm 3 Pak
39% Off; List: $6
Use ChapStick for healthy looking lips. It helps them feel soft and moisturized
2-5-24
Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Stick Vac
25% Off List: $210
Oh how I adore my Hoover ONEPWR, now in it’s 3rd year. It’s ultra lightweight (less than 9 lbs) , cordless, long runtime, hard floor, and low pile carpet. Super powerful rechargeable battery. Replaceable, too (but I haven’t needed to replace and I’ve recharged this thing dozens of times over the years!)
Compact FoodSaver Vacuum Sealing Machine
26% Off List: $95
What a cutey! Fits in a drawer or stand it vertically to save valuable counter space. FoodSaver is the cadillac of vacuum sealing machines, and this compact option is super budget friendly. Especially when you can find it on sale! At this price it wil pay for itself in no time because your food will last so much longer (still needs to be refrigerated). You’ll see.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro
20% Off List: $200
For nearly 2 decades, Shark has been EC’s choice for BEST Inexpensive line of vacuums, and the Navigator Lift-Away Pro our all time favorite model. Rarely, if ever, do I ever see it lower than this! (How many Sharkies do I own? At the moment, three.)
Apple Airpods 2nd Gen
30% Off List: $130
Not the latest edition, but super high-quality sound. Lightning charging case included, over 24 hrs of battery life, effortless setup for iPhone.
2-3-24
2-2-23
Fights air odors without masking, leaving nothing behind but a light, fresh scentFebreze Air Freshener 3 Pack Lilac
30% Off List: $12. Sorry. Deal expired.
Faux Leather Heated Massage Recliner
Features high-quality PU leather, dense foam padding, and a sturdy wood/steel frame. Includes eight massage points, adjustable intensity, timing, and heating controlled by remote. Cup holders on armrests offer convenience. A handle on the side adjusts footrest and backrest angle. The chair swivels 360 degrees for optimal comfort and leisure. Includes remote control. Gets great reviews! Free Shipping Feb 7 – Feb 10!
Caboodles Makeup Box
44% Off List $17.
Two-Tone Seafoam on Lavender, Hard Plastic Organizer Box, 2 Swivel Trays, Fashion Mirror, Secure Latch for Safe Travel
Rubbermaid 60-Piece Food Storage Containers with Lids
13% Off List Price: $45
Check the Amazon reviews
2-1-23
BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Ballpoint Pens Black 10 count
Miles of writing in each pen. #1 selling ballpoint pen.
Massage Gun
33% Off. List $60. Great reviews, comes with 9 massage heads. Super quiet and cordless!
Weighted Heating Pad for Neck and Shoulders,
43% Off List $60
9 Heat Settings, 11 Auto-Off, Stay on, Backlight – 19″x 22″
EverydayCheapskate™ is reader supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Thanks!
How to Grow An Edible Garden Just About Anywhere
/Updated /5 Comments/in DIY, Outdoors and Garden /by Mary HuntWish you could grow an edible garden, but you just don’t have any place to do that? I’ve got good news. Even if you rent and your landlord won’t allow you to dig up part of the property—no problem.
Even if you don’t have time to tend a full-size garden; even if you don’t have time or resources to build square-foot boxes. Even in a small garden, you can grow lots and lots of different vegetables and enjoy a great harvest for your effort. Nothing quite compares to cooking with vegetables that you’ve grown yourself.
You don’t need acreage, a big yard, or “perfect” conditions. In fact, you really don’t need any yard at all. You can get started today growing your own food in myriad ways. It’s easy, too!
Help! I’m Too Tired to Cook
/35 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntSome time ago, I got a letter that took my mind back to the years when our boys were small, and I was too busy, too tired, and too stressed to cook. From her opening words, I could so identify with Carly and the situation she finds herself.
Dear Mary: I know where the money is leaking out of our household: Fast food. We are expecting our fourth child, and I am so bushed at the end of the day, we get take-out two or three times a week. What can I do? It gets to be dinnertime, and out comes the app and the car keys. It’s all I can do to just get through the day. Carly
Dear Carly: The last thing you need is someone to tell you to get a grip and plan ahead. So I won’t. Instead, I’m going to tell you what worked for me when I was in your situation (two boys, 17 months apart) and a few things I’ve learned since.
Five-menu rotation
Come up with five simple menus you know your family will eat, one for each night of the week. These don’t have to be gourmet or anything fancy at all. Example: Monday: Spaghetti, salad and bread. Tuesday: Meatloaf, baked potatoes, green beans, and so on.
Ask your husband to handle one weekend dinner and give it a name like Daddy’s Delicious Dinner or let the kids give it a title.
That leaves one Friday Family Fun Night or some other reason to order in pizza.
Post your weekly menu on the refrigerator. Now, everyone knows what to expect, including you. This will simplify your grocery shopping, too.
As the children get older and you get more courageous you can expand your repertoire and get the kids involved in the kitchen, too. But for now, stick to the five-menu rotation.
Best Inexpensive Cotton Bed Sheets for 2024
/0 Comments/in Home & Family, Shopping /by Mary HuntLet me tell you about my mission to discover the Best Inexpensive cotton sheet sets. It’s been going on for years. It costs a fortune because as you know, when I test products for you I purchase them myself. I do not want to be beholden in any way to a manufacturer, distributor, or company when it comes to determining the best options.
Sheet Snob
When it comes to bedsheets, I am particular. If you were to call me a sheet snob, you’d be right. You might even conclude that my personal standards are too high to be affordable.
It’s not a matter of decor or brand. It’s the way the sheets feel. They should be smooth and wrinkle-free. The sheets need to breathe and not stick to me. But they can’t be slick, slippery, crunchy, or noisy. The weave has to be tight, and the sheets can’t feel like sandpaper.
For me, sheets have to fit well, too. The fitted sheet cannot pop off the corners of the mattress, but it can’t be too big to become baggy, which can lead to bunching up. Above all, my sheets must be 100% cotton. Not linen, not microfiber, bamboo, polyester, or any other type of fiber or blend thereof.
Seriously, I don’t sleep well if the sheets are not right. And by well, I mean sound asleep—not tossing, turning, and continuously waking up.
There was a time when decent sheets were common and affordable. I don’t know for certain what’s happened there, but I blame it on synthetic fibers—microfiber, polyester, lyocell, and their manmade cousins that are cheap to manufacture. But not to worry! Diligence has paid off. I have several option for your consideration that I’m quite certain you will love. But first, let’s talk terms.
About Cotton
Cotton is a natural product with staple fibers, grown in both North and South Americas, Africa, Egypt, and India. There are a number of varieties of cotton. Cotton fiber is spun into yarn or thread and used to make a soft, breathable, and durable textile.
Pima cotton is a naturally occurring variety of cotton, primarily grown in the U.S.
Egyptian cotton is an excellent quality and specific variety of cotton that thrives on the heat and desert conditions of Egypt.
Supima® cotton is a trademark for a specific and superior type of cotton grown in the U.S., representing less than 1% of cotton grown in the world. What makes Supima unique to other cotton is its extra-long staple fiber that gives the cotton premium properties of strength, softness, and color retention.
About the Weave
The words sateen and percale refer to weave patterns. Generally, these weave patterns are associated with cotton, but not necessarily. A label that says 100% Cotton Percale means that the thread is cotton and weave pattern is percale. Another option would be 100% Cotton Sateen.
Percale Weave
Percale weave is a finely woven crisscross pattern. The over-under style creates a tight-knit fabric that is smooth and crisp to the touch. Originally woven on looms, early types of percale weave were exported around the world from India. The benefits of the woven pattern quickly caught the attention of textile manufacturers. Percale weave produces a firmer-feeling fabric. Percale, by its very nature, has a slightly rough feel due to the weave pattern that creates a tiny bump with each over-under. And it tends to soften with every wash. Years from now, a quality percale sheet will be even better than new.
Cotton percale sheets are prone to coming out of the dryer wrinkled, especially if overdried. Tip: Dry one sheet at a time Cotton percale is somewhat stiff, which gives it that crisp feeling. It does not drape softly.
Sateen Weave
A sateen weave is one vertical thread woven for every four horizontal threads. This type of weave produces a fabric that is drapey with a lustrous look and satin feel. Woven with more left threads on the surface, the construction of the weave is four yarns over, one yarn under.
Cotton sateen resembles the feel and luster of satin. Sateen weave feels smooth to the hand, and is far less prone to coming out the dryer wrinkled.
Thread Count
If you’ve fallen prey to the thread count myth, you’re not alone. Companies have been inflating these figures for their sheets for years, tricking consumers into believing that a higher thread count number meant better quality and softer sheets.
In a sea of bed sheets that all looked and felt pretty similar, consumers began relying on this measurement as an indicator of quality and comfort. Bigger must mean better, right? Wrong.
Thread count (TC) measures how many threads are woven into one square inch of fabric. The yarn is woven in a crisscross pattern, with the vertical strands being referred to as warp weaves and the horizontal pieces being called weft weaves. When you add up the warp and weft yarns, you get the total number.
When you see a tag that boasts 120o TC or anything close to that, beware. Either that’s a lie or somehow, someone found thread as fine as human hair in order to line up 600 going up and down and 600 across in the weave pattern. Even if possible, that would create tissue-thin fabric!
In general, look for sheets 200 to 600 range. Anything less will feel similar to sandpaper. Anything higher is going to have a steeper price tag with dubious TC numbers.
With this information, you’re now armed to shop intelligently for bed linens just in the off chance I am not available to go shopping with you!
Best Inexpensive Cotton Percale Sheet Set
Home Expressions Cotton Percale Sheet Set
220 thread count cotton percale sheets are the perfect essential sheets. Woven of 100% cotton yarns, these sheets are cool and crisp. Fits up to 17-in mattress. Available as Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King and 12 color/pattern choices.
SALE: $57.00 (Queen) with code: SAVEHOME
Best Inexpensive Cotton Sateen Sheet Set
Wrinkle Guard 400 TC Sheet Set
Formerly under the Royal Velvet and JCP brand names, these sheets are so soft and luxurious you’ll never want to get out of bed! Made of 400 thread-count, 100% cotton sateen for maximum softness and fewer wrinkles. Deep pocket to 18-in depth. Absolutely fabulous, these sheets are available in 5 sizes—Full, Queen, King, Cal King, Split King, and your choice of six colors.
SALE: $70 (Queen) with code: SAVEHOME
Best Upgrade Cotton Percale Sheet Set
Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set (Queen)
This percale set is among the comfiest I’ve tested and a great choice if you prefer your sheets to feel cool and crisp.
Long-lasting and breathable, these sheets get even softer with each wash. They stay cool during summer but are heavier than typical percale sheets, making them stand up to multiple washes, high heat in the dryer, and wear tests. Super durable.
Woven from long-staple Supima cotton, these premium percale sheet sets have a luxurious, extra-smooth touch. Fits up to 15-in mattresses. Sizes: Twin, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, and 9 color choices.
Best Upgrade Cotton Sateen Sheet Set
Lands’ End Premium Supima Cotton Sateen Sheet Set
Available from Kohl’s, made of 100% long-staple Supima cotton—the top cotton grown in the U.S. All-around elastic fitted sheet fits mattresses up to 18″ deep. 400 TC sateen weave. Six sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, Cal King, and 12 color choices.
Best for Costco Members
Kirkland Signature 680 TC 100% Cotton Sheet Set
Costco members need to know about these absolutely beautiful sheets made in India of the highest quality, U.S. grown pima cotton, made with sateen weave. Accommodate mattresses up to 18-in. Wrinkle resistant. Orientation labels take the guesswork out of making your bed. Just plain lovely!
Available in four sizes: Full, Queen, King, Cal King, and five color choices.
Everyday Cheapskate participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program, and other affiliate programs as well, designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. If you click through some links in this post and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks!
Updated and Republished for 2024: 1-25-24
Yes! You Can Clean Silver in the Dishwasher
/24 Comments/in Cleaning, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntContrary to popular belief, you can put silver in the dishwasher without causing harm, provided you are careful to follow a simple set of rules.
I grew up being fearful of the oddest things. I wasn’t bold enough to question why, so I just did as I was told. Here’s one: Never, ever put silver in the dishwasher. Ever!
I didn’t know what would happen if I did, but you can be sure that my fear of the unknown made certain I didn’t come close to finding out. Until my rebellious years.
Once I had my own china and my own silver, I was reckless enough to believe I wouldn’t go to jail if I violated this particular “Thou shalt not!” I was reminded of what I’ve learned about putting silver in the dishwasher when the following question showed up in my inbox:
I have a set of silver flatware that I use daily and wash in the dishwasher. I notice that after a few times through a normal cycle, the pieces become very tarnished. It is not a particularly good set, just a nice set of flatware for daily use. Do you think that the dishwashing detergent is tarnishing the silver? Anne
Dear Anne: I believe the serious problem is the way you’re loading the machine and also your choice of dishwasher detergent.
Case in point: This small pie server is one of my favorite things. I love it for its size and the way it feels in my hand. I use it daily and it goes in the dishwasher every evening—by itself in its own little compartment so that it is not touching any other type of metal. Since I inherited it many years ago I have done nothing to it but follow the rules (coming right up), use it, clean it, and enjoy it. Read more
How to Clean, Restore Dirty Stained Leather
/9 Comments/in Automobiles, Cleaning /by Mary HuntI love learning insider secrets. I’m not talking tabloid headlines, fake news, or conspiracy theories—I work hard to avoid that—but solid, authentic, and reliable insider trade secrets. I’ve got two of those kinds of secrets for you today for how to clean leather.
Dear Mary: I recently purchased a late-model, previously owned vehicle. The dealer tried to sell me a package where they treat the leather seats. Because of the cost, I opted not to make that purchase.
My question is, do you know the type of treatment car dealers use to treat leather seats? Is it even necessary to do this? The car is an expensive purchase for me and I need to know how to take good care of the interior to make it last. Thank you for your very enjoyable column. I read it from top to bottom and always learn or find something I can use daily. Jan
Best Inexpensive Toaster in 2024
/22 Comments/in Best Inexpensive, Home & Family /by Mary HuntA toaster is just about the most basic piece of equipment in a working kitchen. Seems pretty simple, doesn’t it? We expect the Best Inexpensive toaster to turn out evenly toasted bread, bagels, English muffins, toaster waffles, and perhaps even an occasional grilled cheese sandwich!
We want this countertop appliance to have a long lifespan without any breakdowns, where one side fails to toast or the toaster stubbornly refuses to pop up. And, of course, it should be affordable. Is this asking too much?
The Best Inexpensive Can Openers
/36 Comments/in Best Inexpensive, Gadgets /by Mary HuntA can opener is mandatory for every kitchen. Whether you’re a student living in a dorm, a world-class chef in a 5-star restaurant, or somewhere in between—you need the best can opener, an easy, reliable way to open a can. That’s about as basic as life gets. Why has something so simple as opening a can of food become such a challenge?
Bit of History
The year was 1810. Peter Durand took food preservation to new levels with his patenting of the tin can. Sadly, those first cans were so thick they had to be hammered open, eliminating all hopes of practicality for home use.
It took a few decades, but finally in 1858, just as our friend Peter was coming up with thinner cans, Ezra Warren patented the first can opener. As primitive as that first opener was, it worked! And that’s a lot more than we can say for most can openers 166 years later.
Severe Case of Angst
Can’t anyone make a can opener that’s easy to use, does a great job, and doesn’t turn into absolute junk in a matter of months? An opener that will latch on easily, twist smoothly, and give a clean, continuous cut every time? Is that too much to ask?
Perhaps you detect my severe case of angst when it comes to can openers. I’m pretty sure that through the years, I’ve owned all of them. Most work, at first. But then in what seems like no time, they begin to slip causing hits and misses. The gear parts rust causing the rotating parts to seize up. Is there anything more frustrating than a can opener that refuses to open a can?
Today, I bring you good news. Finally, I am confident that I have indeed found the best can openers in a number of categories, that are reliable—because they work well.
Sweet Onion Salad Dressing Recipe
/2 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntGrating and cooking the onions briefing is the secret to this outstanding and versatile sweet onion salad dressing. Use it as a dipping sauce for French fries, or marinade for chicken, pork, or fish.
For this homemade sweet onion salad dressing, the onions are grated and cooked briefly. When cooked, they become even sweeter, mainly because they’re mixed with sugar and other ingredients you’re likely to have on hand
Makes a great dipping sauce for French fries, chicken fingers, or fried fish. Or use it to marinate poultry, pork, or fish.
Preventive Maintenance is Cheap “Insurance”
/9 Comments/in Home & Family, Repairs and Maintenance /by Mary HuntIt was a Sunday night and the house felt cold. The only way for the Doloski family to keep their Illinois house warm and cozy in December is with a working furnace. One look at the thermostat told them that clearly, theirs was not.
Within minutes of arriving, the service technician diagnosed the problem. They needed a new igniter. At least the problem was one they could not have resolved themselves.
Then the technician opened the side panel of the furnace. Filthy. Neglected. He said the igniter failed because the furnace filter hadn’t been cleaned. What would have taken five minutes to vacuum or replace, cost hundreds in “after hours” fees, parts, and labor. They know the furnace filter needs to be changed regularly, and usually, they do. But this year they simply forgot.
When it comes to forgetting about preventive maintenance issues, the Doloski’s are not alone. Take automobiles, for example. A National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) survey showed that while 48 percent of its certified technicians always tell customers about the importance of routine vehicle maintenance, only 2 percent of those customes routinely follow that advice.
If you own a home, a car, or simply a human body, the words routine maintenance should be part of your vocabulary. Safety and good health are, of course, the most important reasons to keep what we’ve got in good working order. But the financial benefits are significant, too.
10 Purchasing Mistakes Keeping You Broke and in Debt
/Updated /0 Comments/in Automobiles, Money and Finances /by Mary HuntMistake, lapse, oversight, bungle, stupid mistake—no, these are not a list of answers to give at an IRS audit! These words describe the blunders many consumers make.
We Americans love to shop and spend money, don’t we? We feel entitled to have what we want right now and we’ll pay for it later. We spend money like its water, we naively make big blunders and then wonder why we’re in such terrible shape financially.
Let’s take a look at what the Consumer Federation of America has named the top ten purchasing blunders American consumers make to see if anything looks familiar.
7 Simple Secrets to Make Jeans Last Longer
/18 Comments/in Clothing and Accessories, Laundry /by Mary HuntFinally, you found the perfect pair of jeans. They fit great and feel fantastic. Basically, you want them to last forever, but that’s not going to happen. In fact, just the opposite is what I’m hearing from my readers: These days, jeans seem to rip and fall apart long before their time, a problem that sent me in search of a solution for how to make jeans last longer. What I’ve learned is fascinating. The problem is our laundry habits. We’re pretty much washing our jeans to death.
Truth be told, your dream that your favorite pair of jeans should pretty much last forever is not that far from reality. They really should, and they can if you learn these seven simple secrets for how to make denim jeans last longer:
Wash rarely
And when I say “rarely,” I mean not every wear or even every week. The trick is to immediately spot-treat any spills or stains, then launder them much less frequently. Levi’s CEO Chip Bergh says that a good pair of denim jeans worn regularly doesn’t really need to be washed in the washing machine more often that six months.
But Bergh also doesn’t just leave his jeans to get messy and covered in dirt.
“If I drop some curry on my jeans, I’m gonna clean it. But I’ll spot clean it. And if they get really gross you know, if I’ve been out sweating or something and they get really gross, I’ll wash them in the shower,” he said in an CNBC interview.
This means keeping jeans on in the shower and covering them in soap as you would your body, Bergh explained.
Cold water only
When jeans need to be washed in the washing machine, use cold water only, with a small amount of detergent, on a delicate or gentle cycle. Even warm water will cause denim to shrink and fade, albeit a little at a time. Still, there goes that great fit and length. Cold water with detergent will clean jeans sufficiently without fading or shrinking. Make sure they’re turned inside out.
Best Drugstore Hair Products—Superior Quality, Super Affordable
/Updated /in Health and Beauty /by Mary HuntA past post in which I wailed and whined about my very bad hair day started it. You may recall I mentioned budget-friendly volumizing, styling techniques, and a great can of hairspray. That brought an avalanche of desperate queries, suggesting to me that perhaps I’m not the only one dealing with an occasional bad hair day!
Which volumizer? Hairspray? What? Where?!
Not long after, we visited the world of shampoos and conditioners. That stirred up lots more questions and very specific ones as in exactly which products?
So today, I’ve decided to tell. Exactly. Specifically. And trust me when I say that I’ve tested many—none of which are sponsored, all of which I buy myself. And I don’t use all of the products at the same time.
From time to time I see these products at stores like Walgreens, King Soopers, Target, Walmart, but never all of them simultaneously in the same place—except at Amazon. I am convinced that overall, Amazon consistently has the best prices. However, don’t take my word for it! Shop around to compare.
5 Homemade Cleaners that Perform Better Than Expensive Brands
/2 Comments/in Cleaning, DIY /by Mary HuntWhy bother? Why go to the trouble of homemade cleaners when buying commercial products is so much easier? That was my arrogant response years ago when the idea of making my own cleaning products made no sense to me at all. I’ve come a long way!
Why Homemade?
Here are my top four reasons to make your own cleaning products:
- It takes as little as 30 seconds to mix up any number of homemade natural cleaning products—a lot less time than finding the right aisle in the store.
- Homemade cleaners give you complete control over the ingredients. Conventional cleaning products often contain toxic chemicals, harsh smells, noxious fragrance, unpleasant residues, or allergy-inducing irritants.
- Making your own cleaning products is super cheap when they use simple everyday ingredients—things you may have already in your pantry.
- Homemade cleaners using natural ingredients often perform equally well if not better than expensive name brands cleaners.
Come to think of it, I can’t really think of any valid reasons not to make our own household cleaning products. Read more
Think You Can’t Eat Healthy on a Budget? Sure You Can!
/5 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Health and Beauty /by Mary HuntI could almost feel the panic in Barbara’s message. It seems that her teenage son has taken up bodybuilding and her husband is adhering rigidly to the Atkins Diet, both of which are protein-heavy. Barb got through the first week with a major case of mixed emotions: Her husband lost 7 pounds, her son gained 4—and her food bill doubled!
Can Barb keep her food costs down while still supporting her family’s healthy eating choices? I know she can. Special diets don’t have to be budget-busters. In the same ways her son and husband are adjusting their way of eating, Barb must adjust the way she shops.
How to Use Castile Soap to Make Natural Cleaning Products
/15 Comments/in Cleaning, DIY, Home & Family /by Mary HuntFrom time to time, I hear from readers who have sensitivities or allergies to our beloved Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid. ‘Is there something all-natural we can use that will not trigger these reactions but still work well?’ There is, and it is castile soap …
While olive-oil based castile soap has been around for centuries, on brand, Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Liquid Soap, itself dating back to 1858, is making a big, glorious, all-natural comeback.
Readers’ Tips Often Come with More than Just Great Ideas
/0 Comments/in Tips /by Mary HuntThe only thing I love more than great tips from my readers is the words of love and thanks. Yeah, I’m a sucker for friendship, and I value that more than you know.
Just knowing that so many friends are reading these columns every day keeps me going. So whatever you do, keep those tips, great ideas, and questions coming.
Neutralize Bug Bites
I read your column every day with much interest. I really enjoy re-affirming the practical life lessons and habits that I have lived by for most of my adult life. We are definitely on the same wavelength. I saw the article today with the many uses of vinegar (acetic acid).
You may not know that a very important use for vinegar is for bites and stings of any kind. Spiders, ants, mosquitoes, all have a venom that can be neutralized very effectively if you can apply a cotton ball soaked with vinegar to the bite as soon after you notice it, as possible. Give the area a good firm rub with the cotton ball—even squeeze it into the bite so it penetrates.
The venom (PH basic) is chemical opposite to the vinegar (PH acid), so the itching and swelling can be reduced or eliminated if caught quickly. Love your blog and your work ethic, keep up the good work. Robert Read more
Budget Bites: Beef Jerky
/11 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntIf your family loves beef jerky as much as mine, you definitely need to learn how to make this grocery item yourself—cheaper, better!
Here’s the deal: If you can make it as good or better than its store-bought version for way less money, why not? Give this recipe a try. I’m going to bet that once you do, you won’t go back.
The 10 Most Popular Everyday Cheapskate Posts of 2023
/1 Comment/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntBelieving that it’s always a good thing to look back to see where we’ve been and to count the blessings—enjoy this roundup of the 10 most popular Everyday Cheapskate posts in 2023.
15 Things That Should
Never Go in the Clothes Dryer
(73,522 views in 2023)
While the effect may not be noticeable on the first time or two through the dryer, the destruction will build until that item comes to a tragic end, long before its time.
Read it here …
31 Remarkable Ways to Use
Hydrogen Peroxide to Improve Your Life
(79,595 views in 2023)
Hydrogen peroxide—it’s inexpensive and readily available. And why would anyone want to keep this non-toxic, odorless product around the house? Because of myriad hydrogen peroxide cleaning uses.
Read it here ...
How to Make No-Rinse
Daily Shower Cleaner—Cheaper Better Faster
(80,148 views in 2023)
The only thing better than making my own cleaning products is when what I make turns out to be cheaper, better, and faster than something I might buy in the store to accomplish the same goal.
Today’s spray-and-walk-away No-Rinse Daily Shower Cleaner is the perfect solution to keep tubs and showers sparkling between major cleanings.
Read it here …
How to Get Rid of
Creeping Charlie, the Lawn Invader
(83,952 views in 2023)
As botanicals go, Creeping Charlie is a remarkable specimen because it’s easy to grow and produces little purple flowers. But any plant is considered a weed if it grows where it is neither wanted nor enjoyed. In your lawn, for example.
Mention Creeping Charlie to anyone who works tirelessly for a well-manicured lawn, and you’ll likely get a loud, agonizing groan. It’s that bad. I get it. But hang on. I have good news for you and hope this is just the good information you need.
Read it here …
How to Remove Years of Kitchen
Cabinet Grit and Grime
(96,187 views in 2023)
When did you last look at your kitchen cabinets? Not a passing glance, but an up-close visual study—paying particular attention to the areas around the knobs and handles that get touched thousands of times throughout the weeks and months?
Yeah, that’s what I’m talking about and what I’m pretty sure my reader Sandy is talking about, too.
Read it here …
How Can I Get Rid of This
Stubborn Toilet Ring?
(131,448) views in 2023)
Toilet bowls develop discolorations for many reasons that have nothing to do with the quality of the housekeeping. In most cases, the toilet ring results from hard water conditions and water standing in a toilet that doesn’t see a lot of use.
While many commercial products out there promise to remove hard water stains in the toilet, ordinary household pantry items you already have can be just as effective—and much cheaper—to rid your toilet of the dreaded toilet ring without harsh chemicals.
Read it here …
(131,448 views in 2023)
11 Little Known Ways to Get Free Seeds,
Tools, and Other Gardening Supplies
(131,619 views in 2023)
There’s nothing like Spring with the promise of warmer weather just around the corner—together with soaring prices in the supermarket produce department—to awaken one’s inner gardener.
Regardless of whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, due to the present economic conditions, you may be hesitant to fork out money on gardening supplies and tools. Here’s some good news: There are a surprising number places where you can pick up gardening supplies for free.
Read it here …
Absolutely the Best Homemade
Laundry Stain Remover!
(136,592 views in 2023)
I’m excited to tell you how to make a fabulous, if not magical, do-it-yourself homemade laundry stain remover. Compare this to SHOUT or any other pricey commercial product.
This stain remover recipe is so easy and cheap to make. And wow, does it perform! Just let me be clear at the get-go: While this stain remover works super well on fabric, upholstery, even carpet in the house and car, that item must be laundred OR rinsed well once that stain disappears. Got it? OK, let’s get to it.
Read it here …
11 Things You Should Never
Plug Into a Power Strip
(1,581,978 views in 2023)
Whether you live in a house, apartment, condo, mobile home, RV, or dorm room, having sufficient electrical outlets to handle all the accessories, appliances, and tools you need can be challenging. And that’s when knowing how to use a power strip device safely sure comes in handy.
While one of these devices can offer a reasonable solution for too few outlets, it’s a mistake to rely on power strips too much. Or to use one incorrectly. For safety’s sake, never plug the following items into a power strip.
Read it here …
Hands Down the Best Way
to Kill Weeds and It’s Not Roundup
(2,827,269 views in 2023)
If you think there’s no way a DIY homemade non toxic weed killer could possibly be effective and even potent against weeds, think again! But first, a story:
Read it here ….
Thank you for helping to make 2023 a good year in our little corner of the Internet. Now, wishing you all the best that 2024 has to offer!
Question: Let us know in the comments below, what was YOUR favorite Everyday Cheapskate post in 2023?
Budget Bites: 15-Minute French Dip Sandwiches
/Updated /3 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntA French dip sandwich, also known as a beef dip, is a warm sandwich made with thinly sliced roast beef on a French roll or baguette. Although it’s commonly served with cheese, onions, and a side of broth for dipping, this wasn’t the original presentation when the sandwich was first introduced in 1908.
Philippe The Original is one of the oldest and best known restaurants in Southern California. Philippe’s was established in 1908 by Philippe Mathieu, who claimed the distinction of having created the “French Dipped Sandwich.”
With the Holidays Still Fresh in Mind
/1 Comment/in Holidays and Special Occasions, Money and Finances /by Mary HuntAlong with taking the tree down and putting the decorations away for another year, there are several things you need to do while the holidays are still fresh in your mind.
Examine
While you’ve got that calendar open, write your thoughts about the holidays just past. Honestly assess the entire season. Here are a few sample questions to ponder: Read more
26 Quality Items to Organize and Simplify Your Life in 2024
/Updated /6 Comments/in Home & Family, Organization /by Mary HuntGetting organized isn’t easy. But staying organized can be even harder. A place for everything and everything in its place. That’s the mark of an organized home.
As a natural-born messie with a bent toward hoarding, I know the struggle. But I’ve learned the joy of decluttering and gaining control over my disorganized self—one drawer, cupboard, closet, room, vehicle at a time.
Today I want to update 26 of my best organizational helpers. I am certain they can help you organize your bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, handbag, and car, too. These organizers can quickly turn chaos to calm—precisely we need as we head into the New Year!
Makeup Organizer
This professional vanity makeup organizer is clear acrylic so you can see exactly what you have and exactly where everything is because it is large enough for everything to be assigned a space.
Holds makeup brushes, skin care products with lots of room for lipsticks, eyeliners, shadows, powders, and more. Large capacity. Includes 12 lipstick storage compartments, 4 open storage compartments and 6 drawers. The sections are interlocking so you can disassemble then make your own configuration as you want. Sleek, stylish, but also minimalistic in its design. Makes a beautiful addition to any vanity or counter. Easy to assemble, too.
You Overspent on Christmas—3 Ways to Bounce Back
/Updated /1 Comment/in Gifts, Holidays and Special Occasions, Money and Finances /by Mary HuntWhat went wrong? Put your mind on rewind and go back a few months. How come you overspent so much? Did you run out of cash before you got to the end of your list, so you started charging? Did you feel pressured to make sure the kids weren’t disappointed? Perhaps you didn’t anticipate expenses beyond buying gifts—things like extra food for entertaining, tickets to the pageant, travel to your in-laws’…and on it goes.
Now what?
Write down all of these questions, then answer them thoughtfully and honestly. Seeing your answers in writing will bring the kind of clarity that’s necessary to fix the problem.
Let’s say at the last minute, you charged new iPads for your kids and now you’re kicking yourself. If you keep kicking, you may never know why you did it. But if you stop long enough to ask, Read more
The Five Questions Readers Ask Most Often
/2 Comments/in Money and Finances /by Mary HuntIf you were to dive into my inbox, you might assume lots of questions on laundry, copycat recipes, or what the best inexpensive fill-in-the-blank is. I do get lots of those. But it’s questions about credit cards and consumer debt that come out the winner in that contest.
You may find that curious because I am not a financial planner or investment advisor. I can boast no licenses or certifications in those fields. But I have life experience, and I have that in spades.
I’ve been horribly in debt, having owned 35 credit cards (yes, all the same time!) many years ago. I’ve foolishly leased a bevy of new cars (not all at the same time!). I’ve hit rock bottom, struggled madly to escape the sea of financial ruin, and now onto the dry ground of living 100% debt-free!
I have learned a lot on the journey. What follows are the most often asked questions and my answers, representing my own opinions. I invite you to take them for what they’re worth.
A Mostly Complete Guide to Tipping During the Holiday Season
/Updated /25 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Money and Finances /by Mary HuntIt is a social custom in this country to give cash gifts, known as tips or gratuities, during the holiday season. How this custom came to be I have no idea. Thankfully, there are no laws and no tipping police.
We see a plethora of tipping guidelines in newspapers, magazines, blogs and social media during the holidays. Always keep in mind these are editorial suggestions.
Some I’ve read include the garbage man, newspaper delivery person, mail carrier; the nanny, driver, and doorman; the housekeeper, delivery guy, the maid, the butler (don’t we all have one of those?), which for me begs the question:
One At A Time And Then There Were 4,000
/29 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntToday marks a milestone I didn’t think I would pass: four thousand columns, articles, posts, chapters. It’s not that I thought I would fail. It didn’t occur to me how quickly one at a time can add up to 4,000.
It all started with a monthly newsletter, then a daily blog, a syndicated column, and more than two dozen published books. I am proud of my achievement but not too impressed. I wish I could say that at least once each day I am overcome by waves of wit and wisdom. The truth is the fear of a deadline is my best motivator. I count on intimidation to give me a jumpstart and the satisfaction that comes from writing to keep me going.
Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe: Sausage, Egg & Cheese
/Updated /3 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThis make ahead breakfast casserole recipe is not only delicious but also a lifesaver for busy mornings or special occasions like Christmas or Easter. One of my all-time favorite recipes, this Make-Ahead Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is your ticket to a stress-free morning and satisfied bellies all around.
As the holiday season approaches, my mind drifts to cherished family traditions, and among them, one stands out: preparing my Make-Ahead Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole.
Picture this: It’s Christmas Eve, the house is quiet, and the only sound is the gentle rustle of wrapping paper as I tackle the last of the gift wrapping. While everyone else is nestled snug in their beds, visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads, I’m the lone sentinel in the kitchen, pondering the age-old question: How do I feed the masses and still have time to enjoy the magic of Christmas morning?
The Joy of This Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This hearty country dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a symbol of togetherness, eagerly anticipated by all. And while it’s a staple in our home for Christmas morning, its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, including weekend brunches throughout the year. This dish can turn even the most chaotic morning into a cozy, comforting affair—just what you need when the in-laws unexpectedly drop by for brunch or the kids have friends over for a sleepover gone wild.
What You’ll Need
Breakfast sausage
If breakfast sausage isn’t in your pantry, you can easily create your own seasoned version with a blend of sage, thyme, crushed fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, a dash of nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
Eggs
You will need 9 large eggs. For those seeking a lighter option, two egg whites can substitute for one whole egg.
Whole milk
Opt for whole milk for its creamy texture, or indulge even further with half and half. For those with dietary preferences, almond milk or another mild dairy-free alternative can be easily substituted.
Seasonings
Dry mustard and salt are the key players here. If you find yourself without dry mustard, dijon mustard makes for an excellent substitute, offering a similar flavor profile. Simply use one tablespoon of Dijon mustard for each teaspoon of ground mustard.
Bread
Four slices of classic white bread, torn into pieces to soak up the delectable custard.
Grated cheese
Half a cup of your preferred variety. Whether it’s sharp Cheddar for a robust flavor, Monterey Jack for a milder taste, or Pepper Jack to add a kick, the choice is yours.
How to Assemble the Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Alrighty, so let’s get this breakfast casserole started! First, grab your 9″x13″ baking dish and give it a good grease with some butter or vegetable oil. Don’t be shy with the grease—it’s what makes the magic happen!
Next, it’s time to tackle that sausage. Get your skillet sizzling over medium heat and break up that sausage. Once it’s browned to perfection, drain it thoroughly.
Now, onto the main event: the egg mixture. In a large bowl, crack the eggs and give them a good whisking. Then, toss in the milk, mustard, and salt, and mix it all up until it’s as smooth.
Once that’s done, it’s time to throw in the rest of the gang: the bread pieces, cheese, and that glorious sausage you’ve been browning. Mix it all together.
Now, pour the mixture into your pre-greased baking dish, cover it up with some plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge overnight. Yep, you heard me right—we’re letting those flavors mingle and marinate while we catch some Z’s.
The next morning, when you’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed (or at least caffeinated), pull the baking dish out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350°F.
Then, slide the casserole into the oven for about 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm throughout and lightly browned on top.
What to Serve with the Casserole
What’s a hearty brunch without a touch of sweetness? That’s where the infamous 3-ingredient cinnamon rolls come into play. Gone are the days of pre-dawn dough wrestling; now, with a simple food hack, I can whip up decadent cinnamon rolls in a mere 40 minutes. It’s a secret I’m thrilled to share, promising you heavenly treats that rival even the most labor-intensive homemade versions. So, serve them up alongside the breakfast casserole, and you’ve got yourself the makings of a perfect family brunch.
Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole: Sausage, Egg and Cheese
Equipment
- 1 9 x 13 baking dish
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs breakfast sausage
- 9 eggs, large
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 ½ tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 slices white bread, torn into pieces
- ½ cup grated cheese, your choice (sharp Cheddar or Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little spice are all good choices.)
Instructions
- Grease a a 9"x13" baking dish with butter or vegetable oil. Set aside.
- Break up and brown the sausage in a skillet set over medium heat. Drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, milk, mustard and salt together until well incorporated. Add the bread pieces, cheese, and sausage. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350F. Bake the casserole for about 50 minutes, until firm throughout and lightly browned on top. Serve hot!
Notes
Nutrition
Question: What’s your go-to, stress-free recipe for family brunch gatherings? Let me know down below in the comments!
Cinnamon Roll Waffle Sandwich Recipe
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThis is pure decadence—a real treat. And that’s what makes it perfect for Christmas morning. Just know up front: This is more than a recipe—it’s an experience.
Photo by: Kellie Marie
Cinnamon Roll Waffle Breakfast Sandwich
Ingredients
- cooking spray
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, or as needed
- 5 eggs
- ¼ tspn ground black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tube Pillsbury Grand cinnamon rolls with icing Pillsbury Grand
- 5 slices sharp Cheddar cheese
- 5 slices country ham
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- ¼ tspn sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat waffle iron and spray with cooking spray
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry eggs to your desired doneness, 3 to 6 mins. Season with sea salt and pepper.Transfer to a plate
- Cook ham in teh sam skillet until golden brown, about 2 mins. per side
- Place 1 cinnamon roll in the waffle iron; cook until golden brown, e to 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough to create 10 cinnamon roll waffles.
- Place 1 slice of Cheddar cheese on five the cinnamon roll waffles. Add 1 fried egg and 1 slice of ham. Cover each sandwich with one of the five remaining cinnamon roll waffles.
- Combine the cream cheese icing from the tubes with orange zest and mix until combined. Drizzle on top of the sandwiches.
Notes
Nutrition
Easy Candy Cane Fudge
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThis festive 4-ingredient Candy Cane Fudge is a smooth and creamy white chocolate peppermint fudge recipe with embedded, crunchy candy canes.
Photo credit: ShugarySweets.com
Candy Cane Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 (10-oz) bags White Vanilla Flavored Melting Wafers Ghiradelli brand OR substitute 2 (12-oz) bags white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk like Eagle Brand, but NOT evaporated milk
- 1/2 tspn peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed (any size) candy canes
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil; grease the foil.
- Combine the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan set over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until almost melted, remove from heat and continue to stir until smooth.
- When chips are completely melted, stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
- Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill for two hours, then cut into squares.
- Good for up to two weeks when refrigerated.
- Caution: Should you choose to sprinkle some of the crushed candy canes over the top to make it look pretty, serve this fudge within a few hours. Beyond that, the topped candy will become sticky and unpleasant to eat. However, provided the crushed candy canes are submerged into the chocolate, all is well.
Notes
Nutrition
Christmas Morning Breakfast Ideas And Recipes
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntIn the event you could use some suggestions for items that are equal to the day and celebration—but also easy, quick, family- and budget-friendly—I offer my family favorites for your consideration!
3-Ingredient Cinnamon Rolls
There was a time that I felt compelled to rise early on Christmas morning to bake Cinnamon Rolls—my family’s breakfast starter item of choice on that very special day of the year.
Those days are gone. I’m done with that routine and not because I don’t love my family.
Now I sleep in until 40 minutes before I want everyone to wake up to the smell of fresh, hot, decadent, perfect-every-time Cinnamon Rolls with heavy cream and brown sugar.
I may regret letting the cat out of the bag on this because they still think I’m a world-class Cinnamon Roll baker. But for right now, I’m excited to show-and-tell the most outrageously awesome food hack I’ve ever discovered.
You’re going to doubt me as we get started here, but you shouldn’t. Trust me on this. Magnificent Cinnamon Rolls in no more than 40 minutes from start to glorious finish.
Ok, here we go:
3-ING. CINNAMON ROLLS RECIPE →
Sausage Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
It’s meaty, cheesy, and delicious —everyone enjoys it! Serve it along side salsa, hot sauce, ketchup. I promise you everyone will go nuts for this. Who knows? It just might become you next family tradition for Christmas morning!
BREAKFAST CASSEROLE RECIPE→
Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts
I see many delicious-looking things as I spend time searching the Internet, searching, and researching. But rarely if ever, do I come across something so compelling, appealing, and downright decadent that it stops me in my tracks and sends me flying to the kitchen to give it a try. I mean really, could there be anything more perfect than an Apple Fritter Waffle Donut?
This is not health food. AFWDs are a special treat, a secret addition to your next camping trip; a Christmas morning breakfast indulgence. A lovely item alongside the best semi-homemade Cinnamon Rolls of all time, anytime!
APPLE FRITTER WAFFLE DONUT RECIPE→
Cinnamon Roll Waffle Breakfast Sandwich
Photo by: Kellie Marie
I think the photo pretty much speaks for itself. This is pure decadence—a real treat. And that’s what makes it perfect for Christmas morning. Just know up front: This is more than a recipe—it’s an experience.
CINNAMON ROLL WAFFLE BREAKFAST SANDWICH RECIPE→
Perfect Holiday Gifts From The Kitchen—Easy, Quick, Budget-Friendly
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntIt’s hard to go wrong when giving a delicious, consumable gift. Breads, cakes, cookies, herbed vinegars, flavored mustards, jams, jellies, snacks, candies, chutney, and pickles are just a few examples of food items that make highly appreciated gifts.
I hope you enjoy my favorite recipes for gifts of holiday treats that follow below—all of them quick and easy! You still have time.
I’ve given all of these as gifts over the years, to rave reviews. And actually making these goodies is only half the effort.
Packaging, wrapping, and presentation are equally important and that is why you will also find Tips for Making and Presenting Gifts From the Kitchen below.
Enjoy!
Memorize This 10-Minute House Rescue Plan
/3 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThe phone rings. Surprise! Long lost friends are in town. They’ll be at your front door in ten minutes. You have no time to clean the house, much less to panic. But you do have time to deploy this crazy but highly effective rescue plan!
Ready, Set … Go!
Holiday Fudge Recipe—Sinfully Delicious, Super Easy!
/2 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntChocolate fudge always conjurs up two distinct memories: The intoxicating smell coming from the small fudge shop in the town where I grew up and opening the box of homemade treats my grandparents always sent us for Christmas.
It’s hard to go wrong with a delicious, consumable gift for any occasion, but especially Christmas. Perfect homemade fudge that’s neither complicated nor fussy marks off all the boxes for both giver and recipient.
This easy chocolate fudge, made with chocolate chips and marshmallows, is done in 25 minutes. A classic holiday staple!
Grab your kitchen timer because it is the key to making this Holiday Fudge turn out perfectly—smooth and creamy, never crumbly, dry, or too “soupy” to cut into squares!
Holiday Chocolate Fudge
Equipment
- Kitchen timer (Timing will be manadatory as you proceed)
Ingredients
- 12 marshmallows regular size (not mini)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 6 oz. can evaporated milk
- 1 6 oz. pkg semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1 tspn vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease an 8 x 8 square baking dish
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chocolate chips, walnuts if using, and butter. Set aside
- In a large sauce pan set over medium heat, combine the marshmallows, sugar, and milk, stirring constantly until mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil precisely 6 minutes (time this carefully) and remove from stove.
- Pour the hot mixture over ingredients in the bowl. Stir to combine then beat by hand OR on low speed with an electric mixer for exactly 20 minutes without stopping until it has been exactly 20 minutes.
- Stir in the vanilla.
- Pour into the buttered square dish. Allow to cool and set.
- Cut into 36 (1.3"x1.3") squares, or 64 (1"x1") squares—or in any size and pattern you desire.
Notes
Nutrition
Gifts & Stocking Stuffers: Under $10 Deals
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntCheck out these deals—some for a limited time, some while supplies last but all less than $10 as I hit the “Publish!” button. Just be warned that these low prices can disappear without notice. While I continue searching and posting what I find, click thru for more info and detailed descriptions!
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Burts Bees Everyday Essentials Set
Travel size, 5 products: Original Beeswax Lip Balm, Deep Cleansing Cream, Hand Salve, Body Lotion & Coconut Foot Cream
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LED Beanie
Soft comfortable rechargeable LED beanie hat adds hands-free lights and strobe to the regular warm knitted beanie. Several color and style options!
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Flameless Candle Lighter
Plasma arc lighter requires no gas, no fluid, creates no flame. One-time charge can last more than 60 times. At least can be charged over 500 times. TYPE-C USB cable included for your convenience to plug in the power to any USB or charger. Windproof, too! Lots of color choices.
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Glass Nail File with Case
Perfect for salon quality manicures, at home! Several color choices Was $20.
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Touch Screen Cold Weather Thermal Gloves
Six of the fingertips (the ones you used most on your phone, notebook) are touchscreen friendly, thick windproof cuffs, lots of color choices in small, med, large. Super warm lining that doesn’t interfere with the touchscreen feature.
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Magnetic Wristband
Perfect for keeping small metal things handy—perfect for sewists, mechanics, woodworkers, crafters … !
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2 Pak Tactical Flashlight
. Keep one in every car, pocket, handbag, nightstand, drawer. 300 Lumens (max) output and 30% brighter than most ordinary small flashlights. One of these mini LED torches can produce an intense beam of light up to 600 feet. Super cute, too! Uses one AA battery (not included).
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18 in 1 Snowflake Multi Tool
Stainless steel with all 18 tools connected (so they can’t mysteriously disappear!) Comes in handy to open a bottle, turn a screw, fix snowboard, bicycle, toys, various repairs repairs, rescues and otherwise make life easier.
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Multi USB Charging Adapter Cable Kit
How handy is this? Every item has a place so you know exactly where to store it and what you have! Compact, too.
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Lighted Pocket Mirror
Rechargeable, so handy. Quite a few color choices. Mini size with 3x magnification.
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Difficult Puzzle Book For Smart Kids
A fantastic puzzle book that tests kids powers of deduction to expand their brain power.
Will keep kids occupied for hours. Totally 100% screen-free!
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Bamboo Counter Top Wine Rack
Holds 6 bottles. Some assembly required 😉 Tree shape is perfect for Christmas and all year round, too.
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12 oz Stainless Steel Wine Tumbler with Lid
It is an insulated stainless steel wine glass with a removable BPA-free lid, designed for convenience. Use it as a wine glass tumbler or stick your straw in your refreshing drink through the straw-friendly lid. Bunch of colors to choose from.
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Mini Ratchet Screwdriver Set
Tight space low profile cool gadget makes a perfect stocking stuffer.
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Shower Steamers 8 Pack
Shower bombs in 6 refresing scents. Comes in a lovely gift box, too!
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32 oz Drinking Water Bottle with Times to Drink
Upgraded in details and color, this bottle makes a great gift.
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Monopoly Deal Card Game
Quick-Playing Card Game for 2-5 Players, Game for Families and Kids, Ages 8 and Up. If you are looking for a fun family/friend game, this is it.
Christmas Walnut Toffee
/2 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntDelicious, bite size candy that is easy to make, and also makes a great gift. A toffee slab is coated with chocolate and walnuts, then broken into pieces.
Here it is, straight from the binder of handwritten family recipes I inherited from my mother-in-law, Gwen. She made this without fail every Christmas. It so reminds me of her, and what a sweet memory that is.
Christmas Walnut Toffee
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp Lyle's Golden Syrup, or light corn syrup
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Butter a 9-inch square baking dish, and set aside. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, corn syrup, and water until smooth. Heat to 290°F, using a candy thermometer.
- When the temperature has been reached, stir in 1 cup of the walnuts, and cook for three more minutes, stirring constantly. Pour into the prepared pan, and allow to cool. When the toffee is cooled, remove from the pan, and place onto waxed paper. Melt chocolate chips in a metal bowl over a pan of simmering water, or in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Spread half of the melted chocolate over the top of the toffee slab, and sprinkle with half of the remaining nuts. Allow to cool until set, then turn the slab over and repeat on the other side of the toffee. Break into bite-size pieces when set. Yield: 1 1/2 pounds.
Notes
Nutrition
EverydayCheapskate is reader supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Thanks!
Spiced Holiday Nuts
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThese Spiced Holiday Nuts are super simple, savory and delicious. Perfect for yours or your giftees’ holiday cheese trays!
Spiced Holiday Nuts
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- ½ cup cashews
- ½ cup whole almonds
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tspn cayenne
- ½ tspn paprika
- ½ tspn chili powder
- 1 tspn sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Melt butter in a medium skillet.
- Add the cayenne, cinnamon, cumin, paprika and chili powder and stir until well blended, about 1 minute.
- Add pecans, cashews and almonds stirring until well coated.
- Remove the nuts from the heat and spread onto prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with 1 tsp. sea salt.
- Roast for 10 minutes in 350 degree oven.
- Let cool.
- Store in airtight container.
Nutrition
EverydayCheapskate is reader supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Thanks!
Slow Cooker Sugared Nuts
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntDelicious and so easy to make these crockpot sugared walnuts are a great snack! The slow cooker does all the work and you have a sweet and spiced walnut snack.
These sugared walnuts are one of those fun gifts I plan on giving this year. They look amazing in these glass jars wrapped with ribbons.
Slow Cooker Sugared Nuts
Ingredients
- 1 lb walnut halves
- ½ cup butter melted
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ tspn ground cloves
- ¼ tspn ground ginger
Instructions
- Turn on crock pot to high for 15 minutes while assembling ingredients
- Add nuts and butter to the crock pot and stir well
- Add powdered sugar and mix until walnuts are evenly coated
- Cover and cook on high for 15 minutes
- Turn heat down to low and cook uncovered for 2-3 hours, until nuts are coated with a crisp glaze
- Carefully transfer walnuts to a serving bowl
- Combine Cinnamon, Cloves and Ginger in a small bowl and sprinkle over the cooling nuts
- Stir to make sure walnuts are coated evenly.
- Cool before serving
Notes
Nutrition
EverydayCheapskate is reader supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Thanks!
Slow Cooker Chex Party Mix
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThis classic combination of cereal, nuts, butter, and seasonings cooks in your slow cooker. That means less checking and stirring for you and more time to wrap gifts and watch Christmas movies!
Photo: Pinterest
Slow Cooker Chex Party Mix
Equipment
- 1 6 qt. Slowcooker
- 2 wooden spoons
- whisk
- Paper towels
- wet and dry measuring cups
- small bowl
- Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 4 cups Rice Chex cereal
- 2 cups Wheat Chex cereal
- 4 cups Corn Chex cereal
- 2 cups bite-size pretzels
- 2 cups bagel chips, or oyster crackers
- 1 cup mixed nuts, or peanuts
- 1 cup cheese crackers, like Cheez-Its
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, (one stick) melted
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 tspn onion powder
- 2 tspns seasoned salt
- 1 tspn garlic powder
Instructions
- APlace the cereals, pretzels, bagel chips, other crackers, and nuts (if using) in a 6-quart (preferably oval-shaped) slow cooker. Using 2 wooden spoons, gently toss together, being careful not to crush the cereal
- Whisk the butter, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder together in a small bowl or measuring cup. Pour half over the dry ingredients and toss to coat evenly. Pour in the remaining half and toss again.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. When it is done, the party mix should look toasty and relatively dry.
- Pour the party mix onto a work surface or baking sheets lined with parchment or paper towels. Spread into a single layer. Cool for 5 minutes before serving or storing.
- Party mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Notes
Nutrition
EverydayCheapskate is reader supported. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program as well as other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and other affiliated sites. Thanks!
Christmas Crack Recipe
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntYou can create delicious Christmas cracker toffee in just 15 minutes using only 5 ingredients. This holiday treat, made by layering salty crackers with sweet toffee and chocolate, is sure to please your crowd without putting a big crack in the budget!
Photo: iheartnaptime.com
Christmas Crack
Ingredients
- 40 saltine crackers
- 1 cup butter 2 sticks cut into cubes
- 1 cup℉ brown sugar℉ light or dark
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup m&m candies
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 F.
- Line a regular 15 x 10 sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment. Grease the surface with butter or cooking spray.
- Lay the crackers close together to line the bottom of the pan completely, breaking as needed to fit and fill in.
- Add the butter and sugar to a medium size saucepan set over medium-low heat. Stirring contantly, bring to a rolling boil and cook for exactly 3 minutes (about 280 F).
- Remove pan from heat and pour evenly over saltine crackers. Spread brown sugar mixture quickly with a spatula.
- Bake for 8 minutes (caramel should be bubbling). Remove pan from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Allow to sit 5 minutes.
- Once melted, spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle M&M’s (or nuts) over the top and place in the freezer 15 minutes, or until hardened.
- Allow to sit for 15 minutes on the counter. Flip over onto a cutting board and remove the foil. Break into pieces.
Notes
- Use Ritz or Graham crackers as the base
- Use a white chocolate or drizzle white chocolate over the top of the chocolate
- Add chopped nuts
- Add sprinkles for holidays or color
Nutrition
How to Host a Family Christmas Party Without Breaking The Bank
/Updated /2 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntMost of us, when we think of the cost of Christmas, think gifts. But there are so many other expenses like travel, entertainment, decorations and mailing costs. And parties! How can we be warm and generous hosts without breaking the bank?
Dear Mary: This year it’s my turn to throw the family Christmas party. Last Christmas, my sister-in-law created a tough act to follow by having her party catered with expensive hors-d’oeuvres and top-shelf champagne. I can’t afford catering, but I want to put on a spread that’s as impressive as hers. How do I accomplish that without going into debt in the process? Natasha
Dear Natasha: Attempting to upstage your sister-in-law puts you in a no-win situation. Turn your thoughts instead to making this your party—a special gift to your family, not a competition to see who spent the most money. Allow me to take a giant leap with the little informaiton you given to tell you what I would do if I were you:
Christmas Movie Trivia Quiz to Test Your Festive Film IQ
/5 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntChristmas, the most wonderful time of the year. For many, it’s a time to spread holiday cheer and participate in fun Christmas activities with loved ones. One of those activities? Testing your knowledge of some of the most popular Christmas movies, of course! Below, you’ll find a range of Christmas movie trivia questions (with answers) based on iconic holiday films. Let us know, using the honor system and the comments exactly how well you do!
Traditions: The Glue That Binds Us Together
/0 Comments/in Holidays and Special Occasions, Home & Family /by Mary HuntFamily traditions are the rituals and practices that a family shares, strengthening bonds and creating lasting memories. Traditions, those things we do much the same way repeatedly, provide a source of identity, comfort, and security, reinforcing family values. Kids love traditions!
Family Traditions
Traditions assure families that even in an uncertain and changing world, there are certain constants they can rely on. Like anchors, they prevent us from being swept out to sea.
Family traditions can be elaborate and complex or simple yet meaningful.
According to Scientific American, the time we spend focusing on anticipation, experiences, and simply being together can profoundly impact our enjoyment of life.
What Qualifies?
As I see it, anything you do in the same way at the same time, year after year, becomes a tradition. Whatever it is, if you’ve done it once but plan to do it again, it counts as a tradition.
Christmas Gift Guide: Super Fun Stuff for Kids
/0 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Gift Guides /by Mary HuntLooking for fun stuff for the kids? Well, yes, because it can’t be ALL about socks, underwear, and science experiments. Sadly, we no longer have the Sears & Roebuck Wish Book to find all kinds of a fun stuff! But you can dry those tears because here are some of the best ideas ever for how to add a lot of fun to all the joys of Christmas for kids of all ages. Check back often as I’m updating daily!
The Ultimate Gift-Worthy Caramel Corn Recipe (Quick, Easy, Good!)
/11 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Food and Recipes, Gifts /by Mary HuntHere it is, the ultimate caramel corn recipe. Easy to make, stays crispy and crunchy for weeks if you can possibly make it last that long. It’s that good. Perfect for parties, snacking, movie night, Christmas Eve, and gifting!
What follows is a quick and easy way to make what I find amazing gift-worthy caramel corn, with stovetop and microwave instructions, your choice. Either way, the secret to crunchy, caramelly awesomeness is to finish by baking the caramel corn in a low-temperature oven, stirring often. Read more
9 Delicious Ways to Hack a Box of Mac n’ Cheese
/Updated /19 Comments/in Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntThe familiar boxes of Kraft Dinner Mac and Cheese boasting a packet of orange powder always bring back memories of my childhood when my parents relied on the 33-cent boxes as a regular menu item. While I suppose boxed mac and cheese isn’t the healthiest option, I am learning about creative ways to enhance it as a base to stretch leftovers and manage a family’s food budget.
Not long ago, I got caught up in a super fun Reddit discussion, where what seemed like hundreds of participants were sharing favorite ways to upscale a box of mac and cheese into something delicious—perhaps even healthy. Who knew? Not me, that’s for sure. As one who still finds Kraft Dinner prepared according to the printed instructions to be a guilty pleasure, the idea to ‘doctor it up’ hasn’t crossed my mind. But that convo has changed everything. Check out so many ways to take lowly boxed mac and cheese to a whole new level.
Candy Cane Fudge Recipe
/Updated /0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntThis festive Candy Cane Fudge is a smooth and creamy white chocolate peppermint fudge recipe with embedded, crunchy candy canes. Perfect for gift giving (only 4 ingredients!)
Photo: ShugarySweets.com
Candy Cane Fudge
Ingredients
- 2 (10-oz) bags White Vanilla Flavored Melting Wafers Ghiradelli brand OR substitute 2 (12-oz) bags white chocolate chips
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk like Eagle Brand, but NOT evaporated milk
- 1/2 tspn peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed (any size) candy canes
Instructions
- Line an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil; grease the foil.
- Combine the white chocolate and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan set over medium heat.
- Stir frequently until almost melted, remove from heat and continue to stir until smooth.
- When chips are completely melted, stir in the peppermint extract and crushed candy canes.
- Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill for two hours, then cut into squares.
- Good for up to two weeks when refrigerated.
- Caution: Should you choose to sprinkle some of the crushed candy canes over the top to make it look pretty, serve this fudge within a few hours. Beyond that, the topped candy will become sticky and unpleasant to eat. However, provided the crushed candy canes are submerged into the chocolate, all is well.
Notes
Nutrition
Best Holiday Gifts Ideas 2023
/Updated /0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntGifts & Stocking Stuffers: Under $10 Deals
Gifts & Ideas for Coffee Lovers
Gifts & Ideas Super Fun Stuff for Kids
Gifts & Ideas for College Students, Young Professionals
Gifts & Ideas for Techies
Gifts & Ideas for Grandparents & Seniors
Gifts & Ideas for RV Owners, Vanlifers, Campers
Gifts & Ideas for STEM Toys for Kids of All Ages
Gifts & Ideas for Her
Gifts & Ideas for Him
Gifts & Ideas for Totally Awesome Teens!
Gifts & Ideas for Home Chefs, Cooks, Foodies
Gift Guide: What Teachers Really Want for Christmas
Christmas Gift Guide: College, Young Professionals
/0 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntQuick Link: Fun Stuff for Kids
Gift-giving is undoubtedly on everyone’s mind as we head into the Christmas season. It’s a beautiful holiday tradition in which I participate fully because it brings me so much joy.
Not long ago, I opened my email to find really nice messages from several readers seeking help with gift suggestions. One is in a quandary regarding appropriate gifts for his administrative staff—a group of sharp, young professionals both male and female.
This reader wants to acknowledge each with an appropriate gift—something that won’t be so dorky it shows up in next spring’s garage sale or worse, the trash. And he also wants to stay away from any gift that could be seen as too personal. His budget is about $40 per gift.
Of course I was excited to accept the challenge (I do have that shopping gene) and went to work, contacting several of the sharpest, smartest young professionals I know, asking for their opinions, suggestions and help. Together we came up with suggestions of gifts that each of them would thoroughly enjoy receiving from a supervisor, boss—or anyone, for that matter.
You’ll find plenty of gift ideas below including a few to make you smile.
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Upgraded Touch Screen Cold Weather Thermal Warm Knit Gloves Men and Women
These winter gloves are super lightweight to carry, warm to wear and allow you too use your touch screen/phone device while wearing! All sizes and multiple color choices.
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Bluetooth Beanie,Wireless Headphones Hat
Unique stylish design, but also thick and soft to keep his or her head and ears warm and comfortable while enjoying wireless music play and handsfree phone call.
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Long Sleeve Quilted Lined Flannel Shirt Jacket with Hood
Constructed with comfort in mind, this long sleeve quilted lined flannel shirt is a wardrobe essential for those cold Winter nights. Lots of color/size options. Thousands of 5-star reviews!
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Minimalist Leather Zipper Wallet for Women and Men
Best wallet ever according to my son, grandson and me! Seriously, it checks every box including a zipper and secret pop-up feature!
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Adulting Note Pad
Here’s just the Daily To-Do Note Pad to keep those #adulting tasks on track!
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101 Secrets For Your Twenties
Every twentysomething needs a little black book of secrets. Our twenties are filled with confusion, terrible jobs, anticipation, disappointment, cubicles, break-ups, transition, quarter-life crisis, loneliness, post-college what the heck, moderate success sandwiched between complete failure. These kids need a worn and weathered guide stashed somewhere close by to help shed some light on this defining decade.
That guide is this book.
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Wearable Blanket Hoodie
Cozy blanket hoodie, features an incredible gigantic pocket that can hold all your essentials and more—perfect for that dorm room or chilly apartment.
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Hilarious Candle
Could this be any more perfect for your student/young professional who has a certain aire of sarcasm? Ha. Perfect for a dorm rooom (even unlit as the case may be), apartment, perhaps even work cubicle! You be the judge…
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Gym Bag with Shoes Compartment
This fabulous medium-size duffel is exactly that—fabulous. Just the right size, this bag is well-designed with zippers and pockets in all the right places. Comes in 4 colors. Perfect gym bag. Great size.
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Portable Wireless Charger Apple Watch Compatible
With its built-in 1000mAh battery, you can carry it anywhere. The keychain design easily hooks onto a bag to extend his Apple Watch battery life in an emergency. Convenient for your purse pocket bag. Five color choices
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Comfortable Sleep Mask and Ear Plugs
What young student or professional doesn’t long for more quality sleep? Here’s the gift that will fulfill that dream. MZOO Comfortable Sleep Mask & Ear Plugs comes with a handy travel case. And boy does it work. Made to block out light, its so lightweight your sleepy recipient will not even feel it. Contoured, this mask creates room to open your eyes, yet still relax in darkness. Won’t smudge makeup either, which makes a quick power nap a distinct possibility!
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One Dozen Uni-Ball Jetstream RT Retractable Ballpoint Pens
The Uni-Ball Jetstream RT Medium Point Retractable Roller Ball Pen was voted best pen by The Wirecutter—the cutting edge site that rates and reviews all kinds of products for its millennial audience. Back to the pen: Unique hybrid ink offers the smoothness of a gel with the quick-drying properties of a ballpoint. Ideal for left-handers because the ink dries so fast, there’s little chance of smudging. Uni Super ink is specially formulated to become trapped in paper, helping prevent criminal check washing and other document alteration. Archival-quality, acid-free ink is fade- and water-resistant.
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Travel Laptop Backpack
Beautiful backpack for her device and all of its accessories. Lots of storage space and pockets. One separate laptop compartment holds 15.6 inch and smaller laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities and tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets and key fob hook, makes everything organized and easy to find.
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Anker Portable Phone Charger
Massive Powerful 26800mAh Potable charger can charge most phones over 6 times, tablets at least 2 times, and any other USB device multiple times. Universal Compatible with iPhone, all Android smart phones (Phone 6/7/8/7plus/8plus/6plus/x/xs max/11/11 pro/12/12 pro max), tablets, mp3/mp4 players and other USB-charged devices.
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Christmas Gift Guide: Gifts for Techies
/0 Comments/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntMore EC Gift Guides …
Gifts & Ideas for RV Owners, Vanlifers, Campers
Gifts & Ideas for STEM Toys for Kids of All Ages
Gifts & Ideas for Her
Gifts & Ideas for Him
Gifts & Ideas for Totally Awesome Teens!
Gifts & Ideas for Home Chefs, Cooks, Foodies
Gift Guide: What Teachers Really Want for Christmas
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Lighted Beanie
Comfortable, warm, and washable, our Unisex Lighted Beanie Cap provides incredible hands-free lighting so you can get on with things in cold days. A perfect gift. Multiple of color choices.
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3D HD Mobile Phone Magnifier Projector Screen
The screen magnifier works just like a phone projector screen, effectively doubling the size of your screen so you can enjoy movies and videos on your smartphone to the fullest in HD.
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Fidget Gel Pen
Fidget Gel Pen is both a practical and playable puzzle in one, The unique and fun design concept is suitable as a personalized creative gift for men, women, him, and her!
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Keyboard Cleaning Kit
The electronics cleaner kit can effectively deep clean all your electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, TVs, etc.
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OLIGHT Baton3
The upgraded Baton3 is designed with an aluminum alloy case, which makes it wear and waterproof and corrosion resistant for the long durable experience. Further, the rechargeable flashlight weighs about 53g with the battery, so that you can easily carry it around.
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Anker Magnetic Battery
The charger wirelessly charges your phone while the practical foldable stand props up your phone for easy viewing.
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Magnetic Pickup Tool with LED Light
3 super bright LED bulbs, 360 degree illumination provides light where most flashlights can not go.Extendable stem, flexible neck,Magnet head and base, Magnetic ends pick up washers,screws,nuts or bolts when you need a third hand.
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LED Light up Frisbe
As the original and patent-pending invention, our TOSY Disc is 100x brighter than any other light-up flying disc. It looks super cool, especially when you throw it outdoors at night.
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25 Port USB Charging Hub
The USB Charger for multiple devices will charge your smartphones, tablets up to 80% than other USB charger station with 2.0A or less.ensures that all your devices get charged quickly and efficiently.
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Waterproof Electric Lighter
The CAREVER electric lighter is not just a practical tool for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a unique gift.
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Best Smart Power Strip
Congrol up to six separate appliances from anywhere with this smart power strip!
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Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M3 chip with 8‑core CPU
The new standard M3MacBook Pro is up to 60% faster than the 13-in Macbook Pro (M1) in key tasks like Final Cut Pro.
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3 Pack Water Leak Detector
Real-time Alerts: Connect the gateway to WiFi, and the water leak detector will instantly send emails, App notifications & alerts to your phone when water leakage occurs even you’re not at homev
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Ninja OO101 Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Pizza Oven
Not only can it make great pizzas, but its internal size and temperature controls also make the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven ideal for smoking wings and many things in between. It’s at its lowest price right now.
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Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor
Never be stranded with the ZGZUXO Portable Air Compressor, since it can quickly inflate flats in no time at all. Best of all, it also doubles as a battery bank to recharge your other gadgets.
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Philips Norelco OneBlade 360 Pro Hybrid Electric Trimmer
The ultimate face and body combo trimmer and shaver has 14 adjustable length settings, an upgraded motor, beefed up battery, digital display, and a new docking station to hold everything together.
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Christmas Gift Guide for RV Owners, VanLifers, Campers
/Updated /in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Gift Guides /by Mary HuntLooking for great gifts for friends or family members who just got their new van, are more seasoned RVers, or perhaps serious campers? Check out these ideas—each one from hubs and my personal use and travels with Vangie, that are sure to please anyone living the dream! You can see more on many of these items at Travels With Vangie: Best Camping Gear Including Resources
More EC Gift Guides Here
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GCI Outdoor Pico Compact Folding Camp Chair with Carry Bag
After much research and paying particular attention to reviews, we opted for these CGO Pico camping chairs. We love them … very study, extra comfortable, and they fold up so compact it’s hard to believe there’s a chair in there!
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Camp Chef Mountain Stryker 200 Multi-Fuel Camping Stove
Yep, this contraption screws onto a propane canister is a stove. As shown, it has the pot attached. Smaller vessels are available for heating soup, chili, etc.
We’ve tried other methods of boiling water for coffee, but this is without a doubt the fastest and best. And it is considerably cheaper than its competitor, JetBoil. It comes apart, folds up and fits in a small mesh bag, which makes it super mobile.
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Blackstone Tabletop Griddle
We didn’t have our 17-inch, tabletop propane griddle when we started, so we can make reliable comparisons. This little Blackstone can do anything. The camp stove we had prior? Not so much. In fact, it was an unreliable piece of junk.
This tabletop propane griddle cooks, grills, fries like a high-end appliance. And it cleans up like a breeze. Everything—from bacon, to pancakes, steak, fried rice, stir-fry, hot dogs, fish, fried potatoes, and pizza—comes out extraordinary on this Blackstone.
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Blackstone Universal Griddle Stand
Adding the stand with the side table moved things up a notch. We no longer require a table to set it on. With the adjustable legs, we can ensure it is level in any terrain. We can be off-grid out in the boonies and cook up a storm like a couple of wannabe home chefs.
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How to Live the Dream: Things Every Van Lifer Needs to Know
This book takes readers on a fascinating trip that will enable them to get rid of their boring lifestyles and wake up wherever they want. The author explores what it takes to hack a nomadic lifestyle in the 21st century with road tips, tricks, and details from American van dwellers. The book is a good manual for readers who dream of living in a van and getting rid of the routines that have come to rule their life.
12 Volt Mattress Heater
This bunk mattress warmer (which works perfectly on our full-size mattress) radiates heat from below allowing you to relax into a deep and restful sleep. This safe and efficient bunk warming pad keeps the chills away on cold winter nights. Perfect for use in trucks, RVs, Campers—any place you have a 12-volt style outlet.
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Berkey Water Filters
BERKEY HOMEWe no longer need to carry bottled water, which saves a lot of space in our camper van. This travel-size Berkey Water Filter fits under the sink inside the van. When we get to our destination it’s easy to carry out, fill up with whatever water is available (we have a 24 gallon water tank onboard we fill with city water, so that is often the source). Even if all we could find is pond water, this Berkey will filter produces amazing purity. While all Berkey products can appear at first to be pricey, once you do a thorough cost analysis, it becomes affordable. Knowing we have safe, pure, clean, tasty water available at all times is an excellent comfort!
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Lava Box Portable Campfire
LAVABOX $245.00There are portable fire pits, but then there is Lava Box. It is better than anything we considered or tested. It’s built from an ammo box and comes with lava rocks. Connected to our 10-pound propane tank, the flame it creates is more robust and higher than all the competition. Made right here in Colorado, we are so happy with this purchase. Check it out here.
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Ignik Refillable 10-Pound Propane Tank with Carry Case and Adapter Hose
This is the set up we use—Lava Box and Ignik Portable Propane tank. Great gear.
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Aluminum Fold Away Side Table
Handiest little fold up sturdy table, ever. It would be difficult to list all the ways we use these (we have two, could use more!)
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Fire Starters
Fast, easy way to light any fire fast—campfire, barbeque, and fireplace. Starters leave no odor and burn completely. They’ll even light after being submerged in water. Non-toxic, odorless. 30-year shelf life.
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Anker Super Bright Tactical Rechargeable Flashlight
Up to 900-lumen Cree LED sweeps bright light over the length of about two football fields and reaches nearly 1000 ft. Fully zoomable from wide to narrow beam. Features 5 adaptable settings: High / Medium / Low / Strobe / SOS. Tough and reliable. Designed for use in heavy rain.
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MoonShade Portable Vehicle Awning
MoonShade is a portable vehicle awning that offers reliable coverage, day or night, to our outdoor sites. With a variety of anchoring systems—magnets, suction cups, etc., it sets up easily and attaches to almost any sturdy structure. MoonShade provides 9ft by 7ft coverage but packs down tight and weighs only 8 lbs, making breakdown and storage a breeze.
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Vivaant Manual Coffee Grinder
Coffee snobs that we are, having fresh, properly ground coffee is a must have. We just added this hand burr grinder to our gear. It is sweet—once we figured out that unlike other grinders where 6 or 7 is the finest grind, on this Vivaant the 6 or 7 is coarse! Nearly sent it back, but then woke up. Now that we have that straight, I don’t think we could find a better option. It comes apart to make it another compact piece of equipment.
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Kalita Coffee Dripper
This Kalita Wave coffee dripper is something fantastic, and I can’t figure out what makes it so different. Normally pour-over method of coffee brewing is so slow! But something about the design of Kalita makes it so fast—maybe as fast as my Bunn coffee maker at home! And since it sits right on top of our coffee mugs, no pot needed. Just add the grinds to the Kalita with filter, pour in the boiling water from Stryker, and seconds later fresh hot amazing coffee … anywhere we find ourselves.
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Happy Camper Stainless Steel Tumblers
- Double Walled Insulated
- Splash Proof Lid
- Cup Holder Friendly
- Condensation Free
- Premium 18/8 Stainless Steel
- BPA Free – Non-Toxic
- Hot for 8 Hours
- Cold for 24 Hours
Can you tell how much we love our Happy Camper tumblers?
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Collapsible 8-piece Kitchen Measuring Tools
Perfect for the compact (super tiny) spaces in an RV, Van, or tent! These precise measuring devices collapse, to take up only a fraction of the space of fixed kitchen tools. Really fun!
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Black+Decker Cordless Handheld Vacuum
This 16 volt, lithium battery cordless vac is a winner! The runtime is excellent, holds a charge well, strong suction and fade-free power. Does not have to be stored in its charger, only when it requires recharging. Excellent option for a small space like RV, van, or tent. Best inexpensive handheld cordless vac out there!
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Collapsible Cutting Board
Spending all day in an RV is no excuse to eat dry cereal instead of fresh veggies. With this collapsible cutting board, the RV kitchen gets one step closer to perfect. The BPA-free cutting board has a non-skid base and pops-out into a bowl when it’s time to mix what’s been chopped.
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Tactical Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath
A good, basic survival knife for camping, fishing, hunting. Comes with multi-tool key chain and safety sheath.
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Rechargeable Lightweight Head Light
This lightweight yet powerful light is ultra-lightweight and easy to fasten on caps, hats, and helmets for hands-free lighting. This LED light is minimalist and rechargeable, making it the perfect companion for all outdoor activities from mechanical repairs to caving, running, and hiking.
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Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Repel mosquitoes without chemicals or sprays on your skin. No lotions or DEET to apply. No smoke, flames, or citronella. Not a messy trap. This Thermacell rechargeable mosquito repeller creates a 20-foot mosquito protection zone—80% more area than previous models. So portable and super easy-to-use, one-button keeps mosquitos away.
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GoPro Waterproof Action Camera Version 2
For the outdoor enthusiast who wants to capture the adventures! Shoot stunning video with up to 5K resolution, perfect for maintaining detail even when zooming in with this GoPro HERO9 waterproof action camera wit front LCD and touch rear screens, 5K ultra HD video, 20MP photos, 1080p live streaming webcam and stabilization. Amazing!
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Jackery Portable Power Station
This is a very affordable, highly reliable portable power to fill every outdoor power need. Charges cameras, drones, phones, tablets, laptops, flashlights, hand warmers … you name it, this Jackery does the job. Comes solar power ready (solar panels sold separately.)
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Trailer Hitch Vault
So your rig is secure, you’re ready to hit the bike trails or hike another fourteener. Where do you keep your valuables? You can’t carry everything with you and most RVs are not super secure against break-ins. This trailer hitch vault is the answer—a good place for your extra set of keys, cards, cash, and other valuables.
This secure key vault inconspicuously allows you to keep your valuables secure at all times during outdoor activities where that might usually be a hassle.
The hitch receiver is constructed from high-impact aluminum and is a vault that combined with the HitchSafe provides the most secure location on your vehicle to store spare keys and other personal items.
The HitchSafe easily installs and uninstalls in seconds with no tools required.
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Pack This! Packing List Notepad
Whether you’re coming or going, the remedy for pre-trip chaos and forgotten toiletries is right here!. An exhaustive checklist of everything you could ever need on a trip, this organizational tool will help even the most forgetful to arrive and depart fully equipped.
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Mini Waffle Maker
Make four delicious waffles in minutes with this 8” diameter nonstick machine. The cooking surface heats evenly and quickly, resulting in perfectly cooked waffles. Experiment with different recipes and make hash browns or homemade paninis using the Express Waffle Maker. Simply plug in your appliance and you’re ready to cook! Perfect for small spaces and people on the go! Choice of 3 colors.
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Home is Where We Park It RV Outdoor Mat
This is not a doormat—it’s big at 8′ x 11′ and large enough to define a beautiful outdoor area for chairs, table, grill, and so forth. Lightweight and compact. Easy to fold or roll for easy storage. Includes a carrying bag.
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Electricity Usage Monitor
Living off the grid means paying careful attention to your battery power. The last thing you want is an energy hog for anything plugging into your rig’s power. With this monitor, you can find out what appliances are best for your travel. Simply connect these appliances to the Kill A Watt EZ, and it will assess how efficient they really are. I’ll let you read about all the additional benefits and uses for this great little monitor.
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Emergency Escape Tool
This is one thing you really need but hope to never have occasion to use. It’s an emergency escape tool that is many tools in one. It has a seatbelt cutter on one end, a window breaker too with the hardened sharp and heavy carbon steel points on the other. Comes in 2-pack so you can keep one in the tow vehicle or RV glove compartment, another in a door pocket or armrest.
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Bodum Insulated Travel French Press
This travel coffee maker brews coffee or tea on the go so you can drink from the same container when it’s ready. Now you can enjoy your morning cup of Joe wherever you are! It’s well-insulated to keep that coffee hot for hours.
Quick and easy. Simply add coarsely ground coffee, hot water and seal the lid for a delicious, freshly pressed cup in minutes. Comes with complete instructions.
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Micro-Pop Popcorn Popper
Fast gourmet popcorn in the microwave! This beautiful, durable, temperature-safe borosilicate glass device makes for better popping experiences. No oil or butter required, no chemicals involved. We received this as a gift from friends many years ago and I can promise that it makes the best popcorn ever.
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Men or Women Memory Foam House Shoes | Slippers
OK these are perfect for RVing. With sturdy soles, comfy plush lining, and slip-off styling, these house shoes/slippers for both men and women with their affordable price and multiple choice of colors, they’re right there new perfect. And if you’re not careful, they just might become your full-time vacation footwear!
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Aluminum Telescoping Ladder
This super sturdy, lightweight aluminum ladder comes with one-button retraction! And so compact. Safe to Use: No more pinched fingers! The telescoping ladder’s high-quality construction ensures that each section expands and retracts safely. Intelligent locking pins hold the sections in place and prevent sliding, and the ladder will retract smoothly and slowly. Exactly what you need on board to reach every area of your rig with plenty of convenience and ease.
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Smokeless Fire Pit
You find the perfect camping spot, back in the rig flawlessly, open up, set up, and sit back to enjoy a beautiful campfire and breathtaking view. And then it hits. Your bonfire starts smoking up the area beyond belief! You rush to close on the windows on your RV and what a mess. Know what I mean?
Well, no more with the Solo Stove Bonfire, the world’s most unique fire pit that pushes the limits of both combustion airflow efficiency with its outdoor design and all-stainless-steel construction. It was painstakingly engineered to provide a backyard or camping fire experience that cannot be duplicated.
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Vanlife Diaries: Finding Freedom on the Open Road
A photography book celebrating the nomadic lifestyle and community of vanlife through interviews, essential advice for living on the road, and more than 200 photos of tiny rolling homes.
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Base Camp Booties
Give the RV or van owners on your list the gift of warm feet; they might just love you for life. Choice of colors and sizes from $47. Really awesome!
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Mr Heater Portable RV Radiant Heater
9,000-BTU radiant heater for spaces up to 225 square feet. Approved for outdoor/indoor use (with proper ventilation); clean-burning; nearly 100% efficient. Fueled by propane.
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Self-Jump Starter
This is one of those nice-to-have emergency items. Many van-goers and RVers may have jumper cables already, but this setup allows them to self-jump their own vehicles.
The NOCO Boost Plus G B40 1000 Amp 12-Volt UltraSafe Portable Lithium Jump Starter and Car Battery Booster Pack is the gift of peace of mind for those heading off the beaten path.
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Packing Cubes
Staying organized in an RV or campervan can be incredibly difficult—trust me. Even though you have fewer possessions, you also have very limited storage.
Packing cubes like this Travel Organizer Cubes Set can make it easier for your friendly van-dwellers to keep their tiny space nice and tidy. These cubes can also be used to keep things in order in your suitcase when you travel for work or play. Six colors.
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Hammock with Tree Straps
The hammock is made of super-strong 210T parachute nylon material. This soft, breathable, and mildew-resistant nylon cloth will last for a long lifetime. The high-grade nylon triple interlocked stitches maximize hammock strength for your ultimate safety. Five colors to choose from. Comes with carrying bag, too. Super easy to set up and pack up.
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Pop-Up Recycle Bin
This collapsible trash bag holder makes it easy to keep campsite trash in one spot and under control. Clips along the top inside edge securely attach to prevent bags from slipping down. Super convenient. When collapsed, stores away easily.
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Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System
The ultimate camping stove for preparing coffee, soup, or dehydrated meals on the trail, in the RV or campsite. A highly coveted item for RV and VanLifers!
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9-Piece Nesting Bowls/Spoons Set
These nesting mixing bowls have wide non-slip bases, easy-carry handles, and are lightweight. A new improved stainless-steel mesh sieve and a large colander complete the collection of food preparation items. Great cooking prep set for gifting, new home cooks, bakers, RV camping, and small kitchens.
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50 States, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do
This richly illustrated book from the travel experts at National Geographic showcases the best travel experiences in every state, from the obvious to the unexpected. Sites include national parks, beaches, hotels, Civil War battlefields, dude ranches, out-of-the-way museums, and more.
You’ll discover the world’s longest yard sale in Tennessee, swamp tours in Louisiana, dinosaur trails in Colorado, America’s oldest street in NYC, and the best spot to watch for sea otters on the central California coast. Each entry provides detailed travel information as well as fascinating facts about each state that will help fuel your wanderlust and ensure the best vacation possible.
In addition to 50 states in the U.S., the book includes a section on the Canadian provinces and territories.
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Personal Water Filters for Hiking Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness
Removes bacteria & parasites from water as you drink. The microfiltration membrane removes 99.99% of waterborne bacteria (including E. coli and salmonella), and 99.999% of waterborne parasites (including giardia and cryptosporidium). One LifeStraw filters 1,000 gallons of water with proper use and maintenance. A must-have for all outdoor adventurers.
Everyday Cheapskate participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
Christmas Gift Guide: Best STEM Toys and Games
/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Kids and Babies /by Mary HuntSTEM Learning toys do more than sit there and entertain—they stimulate and teach kids by introducing them to basic coding concepts and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). They help kids develop a wide range of skills, from critical thinking and problem-solving to the basics of engineering and the scientific method.
Writing for Stanford University’s Development and Research in Early Math Education, Alissa A. Lange, Ph.D., shares that even preschool-age children show focus, engagement, and enjoyment while playing and participating in age-appropriate STEM learning activities.
Providing open-ended, imaginative, fun opportunities, STEM toys introduce new ideas, reinforce foundational concepts, and stoke kids’ curiosity and creativity.
I love these toys and games for kids of all ages (as young as 6 months) because they’re fun—especially Rush Hour!—but simultaneously stimulate learning through creativity and mind-challenging play. Kids won’t want to put these down.
More EC Gift Guides …
Gifts & Ideas for Grandparents & Seniors
Gifts & Ideas for RV Owners, Vanlifers, Campers
Gifts & Ideas for Her
Gifts & Ideas for Him
Gifts & Ideas for Totally Awesome Teens!
Gifts & Ideas for Home Chefs, Cooks, Foodies
Gift Guide: What Teachers Really Want for Christmas
Christmas Gift Guide: Gifts for Her
/Updated /0 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntThis thoughtful holiday gift guide has been curated for the special women in your life! This collection features some of my favorite items and exciting new additions from my personal wishlist this year. Make sure you bookmark this page, as I am updating and adding new ideas daily!
Let’s Make Every Day Thanksgiving!
/14 Comments/in Holidays and Special Occasions, Mary's Perspective /by Mary HuntI love Thanksgiving so much it vies for first place in my favorite holiday lineup. I love and adore a classic Turkey Dinner with all the trimmings. I love the fall weather, which always accompanies the day. I love that Thanksgiving ushers in the winter holidays, offering me a front-row seat for the best time of the year. I love all of those things. In fact, I kinda’ wish that every day were Thanksgiving!
This has been another challenging year. The political climate and global unrest have turned our world upside down. My heart breaks for those of you who have lost a loved one, a friend, or colleague. I know that many of you are struggling with financial stress due to inflation, a layoff or reduced hours, or lost clients.
Even in the face of such heartache, challenge, and uncertainty, I am more convinced than ever that giving thanks and counting our blessings is good for us. It reminds us of the positive things in life. Gratitude turns bad things into good things, takes our eyes off ourselves, and reminds us to thank others.
Just imagine what might happen if our annual single-day tradition of giving thanks were to become a daily routine. Health professionals suggest we would be rewarded with better health, as medical science reveals more about the strong connection between gratitude and good health.
The Shocking Truth About Gift Cards
/Updated /11 Comments/in Gifts, Holidays and Special Occasions, Mary's Perspective /by Mary HuntWhat do you give for Christmas when you don’t have time to shop, don’t want to put much thought into it and just need to check someone off your list? A Gift Card, of course.
At this point, I will resist the urge to list all the reasons that Gift Cards are not really gifts. Why they are so problematic for both the giver and the recipient. Or ask if you’re going to give money, why not just give the money?
The truth is, consumers racked up more than $162 billion in Gift Card sales in 2022. I can’t stop the insanity, but I can shed a little light on how these things work and how to avoid the pitfalls.
The Facts
Not the same as cash
Understand that no gift card is the same as cash. It’s not. It’s the same as store credit. That’s what you are giving as a gift. The store gets to write the rules for how it will handle your recipient and its store credit.
Here’s an example: Some retailers won’t let you split purchases with Gift Cards. This means that if you have $3.52 left on your card, and the cheapest item in the store is $4, you can’t add cash to the purchase to use up the remaining balance. You’re out of luck, stuck with a useless Gift Card.
Another problem: Should that retailer fall into financial trouble, that gift card will become instantly worthless even if it has no expiration date. Did I mention that a gift card is not the same as cash?
Retailers are crazy about them
There’s a reason that retailers are so in love with gift cards. They get the money up front. And they know that lots of gift cards get lost, some get forgotten and sit around for months or years. But so what. They already got the money!
Americans have a collective $21 billion in unspent gift cards floating around out there. The average household sits on $300 in unused gift cards. (Do you even know where yours are?)
Free money for stores
Consumer Reports has estimated that a quarter of all gift cards go unredeemed for a year after purchase, and about 7% never get used at all. (Here, et me do the math: .07 x $21,000,000,000 = $1,470,000,000).
Bankrate reports 47% of U.S. adults have at least one unused gift card. It all adds up to an estimated $8 billion windfall annually for the retail industry.
Are we really that stupid?
Get smart
Buyers of gift cards and recipients should know that not all Gift Cards are created equal. Like to shop both at the store and online? Not all gift cards allow customers to buy and redeem gift cards in the store and online.
Some retailers charge the buyer of a Gift Card a shipping fee to send the card to a recipient.
Many Gift Cards come with ridiculous restrictions should you need to make a return or exchange. Like you must have the used gift card in your hand for the store to credit back any refund. Oh, you threw it away because it was empty? Too bad, sucker.
Rules, fees
Some cards have inactivity fees (now regulated by state laws, not all state laws are created equal a problem that presents itself when the Gift Card is purchased in one state but the recipient lives in another). Some retailers accept Gift Card redemptions at all locations, others at only select locations.
Bank Gift Cards (Visa, M/C, Amex) require you the buyer to pay a fee of at least $5.95 at point of purchase, which menas a $100 Visa Gift Card costs you $105.95. How nuts is that?
According to the 2009 federal Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act, gift cards cannot expire for five years. However, issuers can impose inactivity fees if the card remains unused for 12 months.
Sell or exchange
If you have a Gift Card you know you aren’t going to use, sites like Raise and Card Cash may take it and give you cash back, credit your PayPal account, or give you an Amazon Gift Card in a percentage amount of the original Gift Card’s value.
Yes, you’ll be “losing” money by selling it at a discount. But if you weren’t going to use that Gift Card anyway (or you were going to use it on something you didn’t really want), it’s probably still a better deal.
Better idea
I can no longer resist the urge to ask: If you’re going to give Gift Cards this holiday season, why not just give the money? Your recipient can use every single penny of that $20 bill to spend wherever he or she desires. Chances of that money getting lost or forgotten are slim-to-none, and you won’t be feeding the completely out of control retail monster known as the Gift Card Retail Industry.
There, I said it and I feel so much better.
Keep in Mind
Print a color copy of the Gift Card you wish to give your recipient. Use it to make a “sleeve” or money holder. Take that $5 or $100 bill or whatever amount of Gift Card you would have purchased and fold it neatly. Slide it into your clever Gift Card sleeve! There! You have your “Gift Card” and your recipent gets the cash.
Hint: Search online for DIY Gift Card holder or money holder and you will find so many clever instructions and patterns for how to do this. HERE is one that offers free printable templates.
An Excellent Natural Homemade Stainless Steel Cleaner
/8 Comments/in Cleaning, DIY /by Mary HuntStainless steel has become a popular choice in kitchen appliances, counters, sinks, and other household fixtures for its longevity and luster. And that beauty can quickly lose its appeal under greasy fingerprints, streaks, smudges, dirt, spills, and stains, which is weird given that it has”stainless” in its name.
Using the wrong cleaning tools and techniques can make the mess worse, even to the point of harm or damage to stainless.
While some commercial stainless steel cleaners do work well, they are not cheap, costing in the range of about $7 and $15 for 15 ounces. Frugal housekeepers who prefer more natural and do-it-yourself cleaning options are sure to love this super cheap, chemical-free, highly effective, easy recipe, and how-to for cleaning stainless steel around the house.
Festive 4-Ingredient Cranapple Dump Cake
/Updated /0 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntCake lovers rejoice! So you’re not a pie fan. Here’s the perfect dump cake to finish off your Thanksgiving feast. This dump cake is easy, fast, scrumptiliumptious!
Photo: TheKitchn
4-Ingredient Cranapple Dump Cake
Ingredients
- 2 cans whole berry cranberry sauce (14 oz)
- 1 can apple pie filling (about 21-ounce)
- 1 box yellow or white cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 12 tbsp cold butter (1 ½) sticks (plus more for baking dish)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional!)
Instructions
- Place the oven rack in the middle and preheat to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Pour in 2 cans (14 ounces each) of whole berry cranberry sauce and 1 can (about 21 ounces) of apple pie filling into the baking dish, then mix. Layer in the following order without stirring: Sprinkle an even layer of 1 box (15.25 ounces) of cake mix. Cut 1 1/2 sticks of cold unsalted butter into thin slices and evenly arrange them over the cake mix, covering the entire surface.
- Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until it's golden brown, bubbling, and a crispy crust starts to form. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then serve with vanilla ice cream if you like.
Notes
Nutrition
With ATM Receipts and Legal Guardians, Leave Nothing to Chance
/Updated /11 Comments/in Dear Mary ..., Money and Finances /by Mary HuntFace it, life is uncertain. We cannot know the future, but that doesn’t mean we should just throw caution to the wind and let come what may. In some areas of life, we can take steps to reduce certain risks by exercising good common sense.
ATM receipts … no big deal?
Dear Mary: This has been bugging me: At my bank’s ATM, there is a big trashcan where everyone throws away their receipt/transaction slips. It seems like a bad idea to toss them away since they show the balance and transaction info. But being cautious means I end up with an overstuffed, cluttered wallet. Do I need to save them, and what’s the best way to get rid of them? Rob
The Ultimate Guide to Proper Re-Gifting
/5 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Gifts /by Mary HuntThirty-nine days until Christmas. While you let that sink in, allow me to whisper one word in your ear: Re-gifting. The act of re-gifting—passing on as new a gift someone else gave you—is controversial but only because of those who do a noticeably bad job of it. After all, if every act of regifting were carried out flawlessly, no one would find it distasteful, or even consider it a thing.
Speaking of what not to do, consider what happened in front of all my friends at a bridal shower—for me, the next bride-to-be in our circle.
I opened the gift of lovely Pyrex mixing bowls, pulled them out of the box to admire the cool colors, only to have a gift card fall into my lap, lovingly addressed to someone who was not me.
40-Day Challenge – Day 1
/9 Comments/in Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntListen
You probably would not add a family room to your home without a blueprint, knit a sweater without a pattern, or head off on a cross-country vacation without a map. But when it comes to preparing for Christmas, most of us hit the ground running the day after Thanksgiving—without a blueprint, pattern, or map. We get caught up in all the emotions of the season, and before we know it, we’re taking Christmas three stairs at a time.
Winston Churchill once said: “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Mary Hunt (yes, that’s me) has learned the hard way: Plans not written are only daydreams.
Today, your challenge is to address Christmases past and reduce your dreams to a simple written Holiday Plan. Get the family involved. Get out the calendar to make sure the season is evenly paced. It’s a great time to reaffirm that you probably can’t do it all, be you can do enough. Make those choices now while the pressure’s off.
Care to comment, share or discuss? We’d love for you to do that in the comments area below.
40-Day Christmas Challenge Welcome!
/Updated /35 Comments/in Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntWelcome to EC’s annual 40-Day Christmas Challenge! Beginning tomorrow and for the next 40 days a daily challenge—something to do or think about that day to get ready for Christmas.
We’ll do this together using the comments (scroll way down below)to accept the challenge, add comments, questions, or even specific holiday challenges you may need help with that pertain to that day. (Comments will start over each day). I’m super excited that Christmas is only 40 days away.
And don’t worry. We’re not keeping track, not making any lists. You won’t get any marketing follow-ups either—nothing like that. You’re accountable to no one but yourself.
Live Your Life for Half the Price
/Updated /5 Comments/in Mary's Perspective, Money and Finances /by Mary HuntIt’s a benchmark, a goal, a mindset, a kind of game I play with myself. Whatever the price tag—real or perceived—I challenge myself to find a way to get it down to “half the price.”
5 Favorite Handmade Holiday Gifts With Complete Instructions (So Easy!)
/2 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Food and Recipes /by Mary HuntWhether it’s something from your kitchen, craft room, woodworking shop, or computer, there’s nothing like a handmade gift. A tree ornament, a plate of cookies, box of fudge, note cards—just a few of the many handmade gift ideas with universal appeal. I love handmade gifts both to give and receive.
The five gift ideas that follow (with the possible exception of pillowcases) require no particular skill. And if you can sew a straight line, you’re good to go with that super fun idea, too! Basically, if you can measure, stir, pour and assemble—you can handmake gifts this year.
1. Luxury Hand and Body Lotion
A jar of your own signature luxury hand and body lotion will definitely put you on the map. It’s that good. Not particularly crafty? No worries. If you can assemble, empty, stir and mix well, you’ve got what it takes to make dozens of these gifts of luxury lotion, start to finish, in a single evening.
And the best part? Around $5 per gift, depending on where you buy the ingredients and containers.
I have created a photo tutorial at The Homemade Gift You’d Actually Love to Receive with all of the step-by-step instructions, plus specifics on the ingredients and where to get them.
Believe me when I say this is the gift your recipient(s) will rave about. And beg for more. It’s that awesome!
Borax vs. Washing Soda: What’s the Difference? Plus Everything Else We Need to Know
/Updated /18 Comments/in Laundry /by Mary HuntWhen it comes to doing laundry, sometimes you need a little extra help to tackle tough stains, eliminate odors, and make your clothes cleaner and fresher. That’s where laundry boosters like borax and washing soda can come in. In this post, we’ll compare these two popular laundry additives, exploring their similarities, differences, and the various ways you can use them to supercharge your laundry routine.
What is Borax?
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral composed of sodium, boron, oxygen, and water. Because of its excellent ability to clean and deodorize, people have used it for decades as a laundry booster—a true laundry workhorse! Twenty Mule Team is one brand name for borax—there are others.
Four Things We Really Want for Christmas
/Updated /7 Comments/in Christmas Ideas and Gift Guides, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntRemember the TV game show, Supermarket Sweep? Contestants have several minutes to fill grocery carts with as much stuff as possible. But the winner isn’t determined by the quantity of stuff jammed into the cart, but by the total monetary value at checkout. The contestant with the biggest tab wins the game.
The strategy is simple. Pass up the low-value stuff and load up on what’s going to pay off big at the checkout. Smart contestants had a plan of action and knew exactly where to head the minute that clock started ticking.
Christmas is like that. Once the season begins we start filling our “shopping carts.” We have lots of choices. What we choose will either pay off in terms of happiness, satisfaction, and pleasant holiday memories—or we’ll get negative results of dissatisfaction and disappointment fueled by guilt, obligation, and trying to meet others’ expectations.
What you end up with when it’s all put away for another year will depend on the choices you make between now and then.
Measuring Holiday Value
In their book Unplug the Christmas Machine, authors Jo Robinson and Jean C. Staeheli say that while children may be quick to tell their parents they want the latest electronic gear, and brand-name toys for Christmas, underneath here’s what they really want:
Do This to Reduce The Cost To Heat Your Home This Winter
/1 Comment/in Home & Family /by Mary HuntIt’s not only the price of heating oil that has skyrocketed this fall. Homes that heat with electricity are at risk because many utilities run on natural gas, and the price of it has gone up, too.
Thankfully there are steps we can take to reduce high heating bills. Experts say it is not unreasonable that you could reduce your bill by as much as 30 percent if you:
This Trick Eliminates Stubborn Mold from Your Shower Grout
/0 Comments/in Cleaning /by Mary HuntIf you notice unsightly dark spots on your shower grout, it’s time to start cleaning.
The mold in your grout can be eliminated using three things: bleach, baking soda, and plastic wrap.
Famous Make-Ahead Sides for Your Holiday Meal
/Updated /6 Comments/in Food and Recipes, Holidays and Special Occasions /by Mary HuntThanksgiving Day should be filled with rest and relaxation as we pause our regular routines to give thanks for the many blessing we have received over the past year. That’s easy to say if you are not the one preparing the splendiferous feast.
The secret for cooks who wish to participate fully in having the day off is to embrace a meal prep and cooking method known as make ahead. This means you do all the hard work days, maybe even weeks, ahead, storing the meal in the freezer or refrigerator. Then on the big day, it’s simply a matter of topping, baking, heating, or warming the dishes and bringing them to the table.
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