Tag: save money

Top 8 Ways to Save on Your Electric Bill

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The winter months can be tough to pinch pennies; I get it. But, know that there are some great tips for you to save money by merely reducing some simple electricity draining activities.

Here are great ways to save money this winter:

  1. Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs With LEDs LEDs are much more energy efficient. These bulbs will not only save more power, but they’ll also last longer. Check out these LED bulbs.
  2. Unplug Electronics After Use. You might not be charging your phone, etc., but the chargers could still be drawing energy at home. Try using a smart power strip that shuts off the current when the electronics are not in use.
  3. Use Cold Water For Laundry. Using hot water will consume more electricity simply because the water heater will need to run. You can merely try not to use super hot water, but something that isn’t too cold either.
  4. Take Shorter Showers. By taking shorter showers, it will reduce how much water you use, which will limit the amount of time that your electric water heater needs. Sounds simple enough, right? Just use a timer and take a shorter shower.
  5. Energy Efficient Showerhead. You can save 2,000+ gallons of water every year by using a more efficient showerhead. This measure will save you tons of money on your electric bill, for sure.
  6. Adjust Your Thermostat. We keep our thermostat at a certain temperature and keep it there all winter long. We do not touch it unless absolutely necessary.
  7. Use Solar Lights Outside. We love having these lights outside. They’re relatively cheap and don’t need energy due to being solar powered, so it’s a win-win!
  8. Motion Sensors. All of our outside lights have these detectors, etc. Motion sensors can significantly help you when someone might forget to turn off the lights.

These suggestions are just some simple tricks that we have done to reduce our electric bill in the winter time. They have really and truly helped us. What have you done that has cut your electric bill?

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New Ways to Save Money This Year

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A New Year calls for new ways to save money and set goals. Am I right? I feel like it happens more often than not. I try not to make a ton of changes, but I know I need to make some. I put together a list for you to enjoy. Pick one or two of them and kick some butt this year!

  1. Cashback Rewards Cards

I love these perks!! You can make easy money by having a credit card and using it on your daily purchases. With the right rewards card, you can save money on anything from your regular bills to your household expenses; you name it, you can earn back from it.

  1. Switch Bank Accounts

I am in the process of doing this now. Some banks have started charging if it dips below a certain amount, etc. Look into this, and make changes. Those little fees can add up over a year.

  1. Use Coupon Apps

You can find some of my favorite choices here. I get money back just by shopping… at a ton of places. Here’s a quick recap: Ibotta, Checkout 51, and Ebates.

  1. Prepare Meal Plans

All you need to do is plan. This step will also make sure that you don’t have the same food every other night. Allow for quick meals, too, because there will be times when you need something fast after a long day… because mom life.

5. Make a Grocery List and Stick to It

I actually started doing all of my grocery shopping online. It is a lifesaver; it is the best way. I can reorder and stay focused. And, seriously, time saver y’all.

   6. Buy in Bulk, but Be Careful

We don’t buy items in bulk that we don’t think we will use swiftly enough. We buy pantry products in bulk because those don’t expire, but if you are going to purchase perishable items, ensure you can use them in a timely manner.

7. Brown Bag Your Lunch

We try to pack our lunches more often than not. I love being able to bring my meal and have limited take-out foods. It makes us more appreciative when eating out.

8. Learn to Use Up Leftovers

I am a huge fan of this action even though my husband might not be. I like to use the remaining food and cook something else from it. Whenever we have ham leftover, we create a ham and cheese noodle casserole. MMM soo yummy.

We will add more options in as time goes on, these are just some super simple ways for you to take charge of your savings now. What are some ways you save money?

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Five Simple Ways to Save Money Right NOW

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We all want to save money, especially at the beginning of the year, every single year. We set these goals, and we do good for a day or two, then fall off the wagon. The truth is that you can save a few simple ways.

Here are FIVE simple ways to save money right NOW:

  1. Set Savings Goals

The first step is to think about what and why you are putting money aside. It can be for a vacation, retirement, or just for a savings account. You need to really break down the purpose you are saving. The objective depends on where you are and where you want to be. Set yourself milestones and goals. Check in once a month or bi-weekly and see where you are and how far away you are from your goals. 

  1. Pay Yourself First

Set up an auto debit from your checking account to your savings account each time you get paid. This action is something referred to as “set it and forget it.” The number doesn’t need to be much, but take a look back at step one and see how much you need to save each month.  

  1. Stop Smoking

My husband smokes, eh. I hate it, but it has been SO hard for him to quit. We have tried so many different options. I often think about how much we could save if he stopped smoking. If you smoke a pack and a half every day, that amounts to nearly $3,000 a year. Imagine a nice vacation you could have with that money; that is a considerable chunk of change!

  1. Take a “Staycation”

The place doesn’t even need to be anywhere close or far away, but somewhere with a bit of distance so you can truly enjoy the trip. Not traveling too out-of-the-way will save you money, while you are still able to have a little fun. 

  1. Pack Your Lunch

I am pretty adamant when it comes to taking your lunch. To prevent spending $10+ a day on a meal, I pack my own and snacks. I do manage to treat myself at least once a week or bi-weekly. By saving that money, I can put it aside into a separate bank account to see exactly how much I saved from not eating out. 

One more quick way to save: Create an Interest-Bearing Account. Many banks have different interest rates or rewards. Invest in the one that will bring the most bang for your buck. When you have a savings account, you certainly want to ensure to get a high interest rate.

Once you get a savings account built up, open a CD or emergency fund with a larger investment rate so that you can let it sit and build cash. What are some ways that you save money? Prepare for your future by always setting aside a little bit at a time over a longer period!

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Discover Frugal Ways to Save Money for the Holidays

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I know the holidays scream money; trust me, I know. Here are some of my tips to save money during the holidays. Pick which ones work best for you and wisely save your money this holiday season. These are some of my tips that I have done first hand and really have helped me to save better.  

  1.  Christmas Cards.  I used to have to send them and create a fun and meaningful theme each year. I sent out more than I received. Each year, I got less and less. So now, I don’t do them. They took a LOT of time to do. Not to mention, they can cost a good amount of money. (Maybe around $50+ including stamps!)  We have actually decided to only send to immediate family members custom kid art work; they seem to appreciate that more.
  2. Holiday Dinner.  Potlucks or buffets are much less expensive than the traditional sit-down dinner. There is nothing worse than being the cook and not being able to interact with guests. The bigger thing though is saving money if you have ever hosted any holiday dinner you know how quick it all adds up. This cookbook has so many great ideas for a potluck so when people ask you what to bring, you can provide a great answer.
  3. Stick to cash.  I know how easy it is to bring out the plastic this time of the year. Figure out how much you spend each year, and start a dedicated Christmas savings account in CASH! (Remember those?) You will be happy; something about cash makes it easier to manage and budget cash flow. This is a great way to hold onto that cash!
  4. Family Fun.  I know you want to do many different activities (all of which cost money). Find one or two with expenses that you want to go to, and attend. Forget about the other items and have movie night from Netflix or Amazon.
  5. Have a cookie swap.  Each guest brings a favorite Christmas cookie, and you swap with others. This way you don’t have to bake all these cookies and do all the work, and of course spend all the money. You even have a variety to choose from now, so you can enjoy something different.

There are many other ways to save money this holiday season, but these are my five favorite practices that we do each year. Don’t forget to budget for gifts and stick to it. Happy Shopping!

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The Best Frugal Tips For Back To School

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Each year when school comes around parents get nervous, anxious and stressed. These emotions arise primarily because of how much money everything costs. There are ways to be frugal and still obtain all that you might need.

Here are some tips to consider before you go back to school shopping:

  1. Clean Out Closets + Thrift Shop Donation: Each year it is essential to go through closets full of clothes. What’s more important is to see which garments still fit and which ones don’t. When you have everything gathered that doesn’t fit, go drop it off at a thrift store and get some cash for it.
  2. Watch Sales: This step seems obvious but, in fact, lots of times stores mark items up for the back to school season. Don’t get caught up in overpaying, really look and price compare. Check out coupons
  3. Say “No”:Every kid is going to want something. That something might be something expensive. The key is to tell them they can get it after all other purchases. Let them know that they have to get the necessities before indulging a little.
  4. Set Budget: Another “duh” moment, but a must. You need to know how much you are going to spend on each kid. Budgeting helps just by being organized. You can take note of what you are going to need and not need, etc. Find a budget book. 
  5. Check Last Year’s Supplies: You can see the supplies that you might have from last year. If you have anything to start with, even something small, you can hold off on them until after the school year begins.
  6. Buy In Increments: Again, if you can watch for good deals and prices, then you can buy materials in increments little by little. Something about buying in increments makes everyone feel better.
  7. Take Notes: Taking notes is critical. This tip is a requirement. You take notes of what you are getting rid of, how much you will get back from thrift stores, budget, what’s on sale, etc. Only use a journal for this so that you can be focused.
  8. Buy Used: When it comes to clothing, it is okay to buy used. Kids grow too quick and are expensive. Second-hand is the best option sometimes until after school starts, and the pricing/clothing might be on sale or discounted.

Fall is just around the corner, If you are in the Cleveland are make sure to attend the annual Halloween Fun at CedarPoint.

Get ready for another great Fall this year, by visiting a bunch of Pumpkin Patches in the Northeast Ohio areas.

Shop smart this back to school season. You will appreciate it later, trust me. It is vital to know how to manage these tips so that you can have a stress-free back to school shopping season.

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5 Easy Ways To Make Money Without Even Trying

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I love being able to make money doing nothing. Who doesn’t? Why not get paid for being on your phone and even for shopping? Right? Doesn’t it sound so dreamy?! You can… now, it’s not going to make you a millionarire overnight, but you can use this money for gifts, etc. I know because it has helped me over the years! Yes, years.

I have been a part of these programs for a long time. Here’s some information about each of them:

  1. Swagbucks: Earn $3 in Swagbucks credit for every person who signs up. You’ll earn 10% of their earnings for LIFE! This doesn’t require people to spend any money out of pocket for you!! And the more you encourage your friends to earn Swagbucks, the more you earn. You can cash in your SBs for gift cards to Amazon, Starbucks, and more. Read more about how to earn more Swagbucks here.  (HELLO birthday gifts!)
  1. Iibotta: Earn $5 cash for every person who signs up through your link! BUT you can also earn a $10 Welcome Bonus. As if that’s not enough, they also offer special incentives and bonuses throughout the year. This is another great program to promote because you are helping your friends save money while earning cash. Download the app with referral code: ocwrist (there’s something for both of us!) Read more here https://susieliberatore.com/2016/08/21/ibotta-making-money-off-groceries-more/
  2. Ebates: Earn a $15 bonus for every person who signs up through your link and makes a minimum purchase that qualifies. The company sends you a check for your earnings every quarter. This is a no brainer! You shop online and it will find deals to get you cash back., So make that money girl!. 😉  Read more about it here 
  3. Shopkick: Earn 250 kicks for every person you refer. Shopkick is an app that rewards you for going into stores or taking actions in stores, the best part is you don’t have to buy anything! You can cash in your kicks for gift cards. Use code BLUE930017 or download 
  4. Check Out 51:  Again, this is another great one. You go grocery shopping, upload your receipt, and get money back on qualifying purchases. Easy as pie and too simple not to take advantage of!  Read more about it here

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Easy Green Home Projects

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By Christine H. The more you read, the more you learn our modern habits disrupt natural processes. From the energy you consume in your home to your driving habits to what you buy at the grocery store, there are a hundred different ways that you can better limit your environmental impact. Many of these changes feel like large undertakings–changing to solar energy, for example. However, there are also a lot of little changes that you can make in your home–just once–to reduce the amount of energy that you use each day without changing anything at all in your daily habits.

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So if you have a moment to check a few simple items off of your to-do list, read through the article below and pick one or two things that you can do today to go a little greener at home.

  1. Bottle in the Toilet Tank: Each person uses 80-100 gallons of water a day, and the vast majority of that water usage is in toilet flushes. That’s why reducing the amount of water used with each flush going to be such a significant way to reduce your water bill. And a quick way to do that is to add a bottle in your toilet tank. This simply makes it so that your tank registers as full when it has about a liter less. To do this, fill an old soda bottle with water, twist the lid back on, and stick it in the tank. Note that this is especially useful for old toilets that use excess water. However, if you have a new tank (that uses 1.6 gallons or less per flush) then you won’t want to use this method. It could interrupt the functionality. However, you can still increase how efficient your water usage is by making sure that the flapper and float are working properly. (See here for tips.)
  2. Weather-Strip the Doors: The vast majority of a home’s energy usage goes to temperature regulation. Whether you’re countering winter’s chill, or creating a cool haven from the summer sun, your home is constantly working to keep your home a comfortable temperature to eat, sleep, and play. However, if you don’t have measures in place to retain the proper temperature, you could be wasting up to 50% of your energy usage. Insulation in the walls and roof are important. But one of biggest ways that heat and cool escape your home is through the cracks under and around doors. The good news is that it’s an easy under-an-hour project to weather-proof your door. Just buy some weather-stripping at the hardware store. Installing it is as easy as placing a (really long) sticker. If your door has a bit of a gap at the bottom, you should also think about installing a bottom sweep, which will also reduce the amount of pests that can get into your home.
  3. Eliminate Phantom Energy Drain: Did you know that phantom energy drain costs up to 100$ per year in energy bills? This is the term used for energy drain that happens when electrical appliances and machines are plugged in, even though they’re currently off and just on standby mode. That means that even when your microwave isn’t in use, it’s still draining a little bit of electricity out of the walls as long as it’s plugged in. Each minute, the amount of electricity used is negligible, but between all the things plugged in in your home, day after day, it adds up. You can reduce phantom energy drain each day by unplugging things when they’re not in use (especially laptop and phone chargers.) However, you can also institute a one-time solution, if you have a hard time remembering to unplug. Install a couple of power strips in your home–especially around the entertainment center, the desktop computer, and in the kitchen. Turn off the whole power strip when it’s not in use, and you’ve suddenly cut phantom drain in half, at least. Power strips aren’t all that expensive, and if you use some zip ties or sticky velcro, you can usually find an unobtrusive spot for them. Again, this project will take you under an hour.
  4. Garden Greener: If you like to garden, that’s wonderful! However, it can also use a lot of extra water and chemicals, if you’re not mindful about it. Set up a compost pile to fertilize your garden with, install a rain barrel to use for watering the garden, and research organic pest control methods like these. You can usually install a rain barrel easily in a day. Just make sure that your downspout funnels in properly, and that the barrel is covered to avoid debris and pests getting in.
  5. Change the Lightbulbs: At least 5% of your energy budget goes towards lighting. You can save almost $100/year by switching to more energy-efficient bulbs. It might be more money up front, but more energy-efficient bulbs will also last longer, which reduces waste and pays for itself after a few years. So, take some time to buy CFL or LED lights for your home and replace those old incandescent ones when they burn out. Old incandescent lights waste a lot of energy by converting it into heat, which is useless for your home.
  6. Learn a Few Vegetarian Recipes: Whether or not you have moral standards about eating meat, you should know that meat production industries take more energy and contribute more to environmental pollution than just about any other food. That’s why you can greatly reduce your environmental impact simply by opting for meatless days once or twice a week. So, if it feels like dinner is incomplete without an animal-product protein on the plate, then maybe it’s time to explore some alternatives. Look up vegetarian curries, explore the possibilities inherent in different legumes, and find ways to eat just as heartily, and with just as much protein, without animal products. Again, you don’t have to make a cold-turkey commitment in order to reduce your impact.
  7. Opt Out of Unsolicited Mail: How much paper waste do you end up with each time you get the mail? It’s annoying, but few of us take the time to make it stop. However, if you just decide that you’re going to sit down for an hour and make a few calls, you can greatly reduce this nuisance (not to mention reduce the amount of waste in your home.) You can opt out of pre-approved credit offers simply by calling 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688). You can contact Dex and Valpack online or by phone to prevent them from giving you mail. If you donate to charities that keep sending you mail for more, you can call them and ask for reminders via email instead.

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How To Use Sunlight To Grow Your Garden

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This year we are really going in head strong with our gardening. Last year we made some mistakes and learned from them, but we aren’t going to do that anymore!

It was so fun to pick our vegetables, and fruits, from the garden PLUS it saved us so much money. It really did, and I created a hobby out of it. There are somethings that you need to know about sunlight in order to be successful.

  1. High Sunlight 6-8 hours per day: Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, melons, cucumbers, squash, beans. These ones need a lot of sunlight! Make sure that they are planted in the spots where the most sun is.
  2. Medium Sunlight 4-6 hours per day: Broccoli, Carrots, Radishes, Beets, turnip, potatoes. These ones still need quite a bit of sunlight so make sure to put them in good sunlight in order to get the best results.
  3. Low Sunlight 3-4 hours per day: Kale, spinach, lettuce,Arugula, Asian greens, cabbage, parsley, scallions. These should be hidden so that the other items can hog up most of the sunlight.

Sunlight is important for your garden, study where your sun goes and make sure to strategically place it in the right spots.

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HELLOFRESH: HEALTHY & DELICIOUS MEALS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

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All meal subscription boxes are not created equal, and HelloFresh rises to the top by providing healthy and delicious meals that your whole family will enjoy. Whether you are a vegetarian, on a low-calorie diet, or looking for something quick and easy for the whole family, HelloFresh has recipes that you’ll love.

Their dedicated team of chefs works alongside dietitians to create 15 new recipes each week. Whatever plan you pick – Veggie, Classic or Family – only order what you want, when you want it. You can skip weeks, swap recipes, and cancel anytime. Now is the perfect time to try HelloFresh, because you can get $30 off your first box. Use code HF30NOW at checkout to take advantage of this great deal.

With recipes like Quick Beef Ragu Spaghetti, Sweet Apple Port Tenderloin and Parmesan Chicken Dippers, you’ll always have a balanced meal on hand that’s adult and kid approved.

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Where is Your Paycheck Money Really Going?

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I am all about spending money, making money, and saving money. It stresses me out sometimes. I want to be able to save and be secured but it seems like we are often stuck. There isn’t one real reason why we are stuck but I would say it is because of spending.. Right?

Things come up because life happens. It sucks! We can save, but then we have to take it back out because something happened. I know you are nodding your head reading this just because we have all been there. This isn’t a secret, but often times we are ashamed.. We are ashamed because we can’t go out to dinner with our friends that night, or get those new shoes we want, etc.

The question comes up, where does our money really go?! I took a close look at where our money was going and I am happy to share it with you!

  1. 15% food – this is all food, groceries, eating out, etc.
  2. 35% housing – this is our biggest one and includes utilities for the house.
  3. 15% transportation – car loan and even gas or car problems.
  4. 10% cell phone and internet, and also our home security.
  5. 12% other – this includes any savings and retirement, etc (we are working hard on this).
  6. 7% entertainment – this is cable, netflix, etc.

What do you spend your money on? Take a look at your bank and really monitor things over the next month and see where all your money goes! I look at all of these items and wonder if there is a way to save money and where to really save it?

Yours might be different, but we take pride in a lot of debt free items (no student loans or credit cards). We say no to every debt option we can so we can keep our flow low.

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