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Summer Bucket List
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What We Wish We Knew Before Having an Adult Child
Recently, I mentioned something on Instagram about how having an adult child is wonderful and also there are new challenges as your kids get older and grow wings and fly. This resonated with so many people that I ended up turning my thoughts into an Instagram post.
And then it inspired us to expand further on it in this week’s podcast episode. We’re just a year into having an adult child, but we wanted to share what we learned so far — especially as we get ready to graduate another senior from high school!
In this episode, we talk about the ups and downs of watching our kids learn to navigate life on their own. We discuss things we are glad we did ahead of time and things we wish we had known.
It’s such a joy to see them succeed and grow, but it’s also tough to watch them struggle and face hardships that we can’t fix for them. We share some of our experiences, some of the hard lessons, and the surprising things we’ve learned along the way.
I hope this conversation encourages you, whether you’re about to launch your kids into adulthood, you already have launched them, or you’re right in the thick of parenting littles or tweens or teens.
We also discuss my goal for a “slowed-down summer” and what I’ve proactively put into place to make that happen. We also answer a question we kept getting about Jesse’s To Do app, talk about a book I finished recently, and share some lessons we’ve learned about communication in marriage (please laugh — this was such a rabbit trail!). Plus, I share a freebie with you — 100 Free or Low Cost Summer Bucket List Ideas!
Powered by RedCircle
In This Episode
[0:35] – What we wish we knew before having an adult child, a topic inspired by an Instagram post.
[1:35] – Hear about the phrase I chose for this summer.
[3:52] – I recently read and loved Tired of Being Tired by Jess Connolly.
[6:02] – Jesse shares what he loves about the Appigo Todo app.
[8:50] – Challenges we’ve had in communication in our marriage and lessons we’ve learned.
[13:13] – Learning to let go as a parent of an adult child can be one of the hardest things.
[14:22] – The importance of letting kids handle challenges themselves when they are younger.
[17:53] – Plus, teaching kids to be more self-sufficient involves giving them tools to confront problems.
[20:01] – There is a time to say no and there is a time to express caution and let your child learn through experience.
[24:03] – I describe how starting my day with a walk and prayer helps me support and connect with each of my kids.
[26:18] – In closing, parenting older children is challenging but rewarding, reminding us to trust and rely on God.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Free Summer Bucket List
Appigo Todo App
Books
Tired of Being Tired: Receive God’s Realistic Rest for Your Soul-Deep Exhaustion by Jess Connolly
Social Media
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)
Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)
Crystal Paine on Twitter
Crystal Paine on Goodreads
Money Saving Mom
Money Saving Mom on Facebook
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
[email protected]
25 Best Summer Jobs for Teens & Tweens
Looking for summer jobs for teens & tweens? We’ve compiled this list to help give you some creative ideas for best part time jobs for teens to brainstorm with your kids! (You might also be interested in these 40+ Income-Earning Ideas!)
Summer Jobs for Teens (and Tweens!)
If you have teens or tweens looking for ways to make money this summer (or throughout the rest of the year), this comprehensive list should give you some great ideas!
We polled our Facebook followers several years ago and then again just recently, and they did not disappoint with SO many creative summer jobs for teens and tweens! We compiled some of the best ideas below, but be sure to check out both Facebook posts for even more inspiration.
Whether you’re looking for summer jobs, best year-round jobs, or part time jobs for teens…we’ve got you covered with this list!
We also tried to make sure to include the tweens on this list, since a lot of times they aren’t quite old enough to get traditional part time jobs for teens. So this list has a variety of options for all ages of tweens and teens!
1. Tutor
This was by far the most common suggestion for best jobs for teens!
If your teen is gifted in a specific subject or area, they can put those skills to use to help younger kids struggling in that subject.
This is a great one to try over the summer when some kids might need extra practice or help while school is out. Or do it year-round when school is in session!
2. Teach Lessons or Classes
Does your teen/tween have a specific skill set they’re really great at or passionate about? They could consider teaching classes to younger kids!
This works great with music or art lessons, or even something different like cooking classes. Here are some examples from followers:
Andrea says: “My friend’s teenage daughter was an accomplished piano player by the time she was in high school and gave lessons as her ‘after school job’ to young kids/beginners. She taught my daughter for over a year. She did her lessons at the children’s homes and it was perfect – she didn’t have to have a ‘studio’ of her own and none of us parents had to worry about shuttling our kids somewhere for lessons!!”
Hollie suggested this and said: “My daughter and her friend started a cooking class for kids ages 7-12. They did the class 3 times a week for 45 min to 1 hour. Kids could do a week or all 6 weeks. Each day was a different recipe/technique. All recipes were mom approved. They had a good turnout and really enjoyed themselves.”
By the way, this was something I did as a teen. I taught violin to a number of different students and it was such a good learning and growing experience for me! Oh, and parents especially love if you’re willing to drive to their house and teach the lessons!
3. Pet Sit or Walk Dogs
Pet sitting or walking dogs is a great way to make some extra money! Some people need daily help if they’re away from the home for a long time, or other people need help while they’re away on vacation.
Geri said: “My daughters both did pet sitting in their teens. They sat for everything from boa constrictors and hissing cockroaches to dogs and cats. They even took care of goats, chickens, cows, horses and other livestock. Not a skill set every teen has, but they grew up on our farm caring for our animals.”
Another possibility for part time jobs for teens is to work at the local vet office. Shannon said, “As a teen, I worked for my local vet clinic cleaning cages, walking dogs, washing laundry, mopping floors, etc. That turned into occasional and then part-time admin work plus assisting vets on house calls as I was just available and willing to learn. Got to interact with so many people and their pets!”
4. Pick Up Dog Waste in Yards
Another person even suggested picking up dog waste in people’s yards as another paying gig. It’s something that a lot of people don’t make time for but is a simple task teens/tweens can totally help out with to make some extra cash!
One mom said, “I know that sounds gross, but it’s a need and people love to pay something else to do it. We have three dogs and pay someone to come weekly. It’s a lifesaver. He tells us all the time that he is booked and can’t accept new clients because the need is so great.”
5. Help with Vacation Duties
Even if people don’t have animals, there are often tasks they need help with while they’re away on vacation. Tweens can help with tasks like bringing in mail/packages each day or watering indoor plants.
6. Wash/Detail Vehicles
This is such a great idea! Especially during the summer, a lot of people don’t like to deal with the heat to wash their own vehicles, so this is a huge opportunity for teens/tweens!
The mom who suggested it said, “My son started a car detail business where clients bring their car to him and text when they drop keys off on our porch. He details the cars and then texts the owners when they are ready.” If your teen can drive, I think going to people’s houses and detailing their cars at their house might also be another great option.“
You could also check with local car dealerships and car rental locations to see if they need someone to wash and detail cars for them.
7. Lawn/Garden Work
Lawn care is always a great option for summer jobs for teens, because there are so many people who need help with their yard — especially during the summer when grass grows so quickly!
Teens and tweens can help with mowing lawns and weeding/watering/tending to gardens during the summer.
During the other seasonal months, they could help with tasks like picking up pinecones, raking leaves, or even stacking firewood.
8. Referee Sports Games
This is one that Silas has started doing over the past couple years and he loves it! This is a really great option, because a lot of times you can start at a younger age than other traditional part time jobs for teens.
Camille said: “My kids referee soccer. They could take the class once they turned 12. It’s been a great experience for all 3 of mine. They are responsible for submitting their availability online, accepting games, and communicating with their assignor.”
Andrea said: “My 14-year-old and 12-year-old referee soccer games! They don’t have time to earn as much as a regular job, but my 14-year-old bought himself his own computer after just a couple months of work last summer.”
Tracy also posted and said: “My 15-year-old has been doing this for 2 years. It is pretty decent income for that age. Having thick skin to ignore the fans helps.”
9. Coach Private Sports
In addition to refereeing, this is another great option if you’re looking for creative summer jobs for teens!
One mom said, “My daughter plays soccer year-round and is now coaching/practicing/training three kids from one family. She mainly just does structured drills that keep their skills up so they are not rusty when the season begins. She does it for an hour each week and they pay her $40/week.”
10. Babysit
Of course you knew this one had to be on the list! Babysitting is a great way to make extra cash. And if your teen goes above and beyond while on the job, all the better!
Take note of Melissa’s tip: “Babysitting will absolutely pay the most. If she interacts with the children, does the dishes, and tidies up the house she’ll be in more demand and will earn more.”
And Celena said: “I have a hard time finding sitters who do more than the bare minimum. When I babysat in college, I always got massive tips and had people calling me all the time. I never understood why until I hired my first babysitter and came home after a late night out to a super messy house, dinner dishes still in the sink, and the sitter on the couch on her phone. Argh.”
I 100% agree! If your teen/tween leaves the house cleaner than they found it, they will likely have more jobs than they can take…and probably get paid higher, too!
11. Be a Mother’s Helper
Similar to babysitting, being a Mother’s Helper is a great introduction to babysitting — especially for younger tweens.
Typically, a Mother’s Helper comes over during the day for a few hours to help out with basic household or childcare tasks that the mom could use some extra help with. The mom is still usually at home, so you can think of it more like a “babysitter in training” kind of stituation.
It’s a great way to make some extra money and learn an invaluable skill that could be used to continue making money all through the teenage years!
We used a Mother’s Helper off and on when my older 3 were little and it was SO helpful!
12. Clean/Organize Houses
Several people mentioned the idea of teens offering cleaning and organizing services to family, friends, and neighbors.
This could be anything from simple tasks like folding laundry to deep cleaning the house. Of if your teen has the gift of organizing, they could even offer services like organizing closets!
13. Wash Windows
This is another creative idea one follower suggested for summer jobs for teens!
Danna commented: “I’m a merit badge counselor for Boy Scouts in Entrepreneurship. I recently taught a merit badge clinic and one of the boys in the clinic runs a very successful business. He’s 14 and he washes windows. He started on his own house and his neighbors’ houses when he was 11. He advertises using referrals and NextDoor.com to keep jobs close to his home. At 14 he has 2 employees and makes about $400 a weekend that he works.”
14. Garbage Can Duty
This is a simple simple way for a tween (or even younger kid!) to make a small chunk of money each week and it can add up quickly if they help out multiple houses!
Tweens can help people by taking their garbage cans to the curb each week and then returning them to the house after garbage pickup day. They could also make some extra money from cleaning out or even pressure washing dirty garbage bins.
15. Create Craft Kits for Kids
One mom said, “I’m always looking for easy quiet time stuff for my preschoolers to do and having a kit would make things easier.”
This might be a really unique way for a creative teen to make some extra cash! Create craft kids to sell to families with younger kids.
Teens can sell right from your porch or driveway or can deliver them to neighbor’s porches/doorsteps. Use a digital payment app like Venmo to make payments easy.
Tip: Check out this post on How to Make a Snail Mail Craft Kit for Kids
16. Make Handmade Gifts to Sell
Is your teen crafty or artistic? Can they sew or crochet or paint? Another option for part time jobs for teens is to create items to sell!
One mom messaged me and said, “My 14-year-old has a crocheting business that is booming. I set up a Facebook Page for her and many people see things that she makes and order from that.”
What a fun idea!
17. Meal Prep Services
What about having your teen make prepared meals or meal kits for busy families? They could also specialize in baked goods or desserts. (As always, check your local food handling laws before starting this type of business.)
18. Help at the Local Library
Does your local library need a teen to help pull books or restock shelves? This might be a great option to look into!
19. Start an eBay/Etsy Business
I’m always a fan of online business endeavors as part time jobs for teens! There are endless options and working remotely allows for more flexibility with a busy school schedule.
Both of my brothers have very successful eBay businesses that they started in their teens and still continue to this day.
One follower said: “My kids (10 and 12) started an eBay business. They sell items from around the house or stuff they find at the resale shop or garage sales. They also do 50/50 commission for items from family and friends. It’s been an amazing experience for them so far!”
20. Sell Items
This is another great way to make som extra cash! Teens could either sell things they get for free or gather unwanted clutter from around the home to sell.
One person said: “Last summer, my 14-year-old brother collected free things off of Facebook Marketplace and from thrift stores. He needed help from my mom to go collect the items, but he did all the work when he got home to clean up the items and sell them either online or in yard sales. With the money he made, he was able to pay for a summer trip!“
21. Become a Lifeguard
Julie suggested lifeguarding as another great option for summer jobs for teens: “My son got certified at the local YMCA and is a Life Guard. He is able to have a flexible schedule with school and the swim team. It works really well for him!“
22. Help Local Farmers with Chores
Many people suggested helping out local farmers with various chores, such as cleaning animal stalls, taking care of or grooming horses, detasseling corn plants, and more.
If you live in a more rural area with lots of farmers, this might be a really great idea to look into.
23. Help Elderly Neighbors
Many elderly neighbors need help with basic everyday chores and needs. This is a great way for teens to provide a much-needed service to the community and also make some money.
24. Sell Refreshing Drinks or Baked Goods
One of the more classic summer jobs for teens is setting up a neighborhood lemonade stand!
And it’s one that a child can do at just about any age. Other ideas are shaved ice or baked goods. Yum!
25. Do Hair
If you have a teen who loves experimenting with hair styles, this is a super fun idea! Offer to do mini updos or special hair styles for a small fee — perfect for special occasions, too!
Do you have any other ideas for part time jobs for teens & tweens? We’d love to hear!
Want to empower your teen to earn their own money?
Grab this FREE list of 10 high-earning side hustles nobody is talking about!
Shared May 22, 2024
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DSW Shoe Sale: Stackable Savings on Adidas, Vans, Steve Madden, Hey Dude, and more for the whole family!
DSW Shoe Sale: Stackable Savings on Adidas, Vans, Steve Madden, Hey Dude, and more for the whole family!
Wow!! DSW is running a HUGE sale on brand-name shoes for the family right now, with prices marked down as much as 50% off. On top of that, rewards members (it’s free to join) can use code HELLOVIP at checkout to save an additional 25% off! Plus, shipping is free for Rewards members.
Note — look for the items with 25% off in red under the price.
There are many great deals to choose from for men, women, and kids. Here are just a few of the best deals we spotted…
Get these Hush Puppies Alarick Chukka Boots for only $14.99 shipped after code (regularly $89.99)!
Get these Clarks Cloudsteppers Sunmaze Tide Sandals for only $29.99 shipped after code (regularly $55)! Available in a variety of colors.
Get these New Balance 997H Men’s Sneakers for only $52.49 shipped after code (regularly $95)!
Get these Steve Madden Robbin Sandals for as low as $44.99 shipped after code (regularly $90)!
Get these Hey Dude Bradley Eco Boots for only $37.48 shipped after code (regularly $95)!
Get these Adidas Edge Lux 6 Sneakers for as low as $33.74 shipped after code (regularly $90)!
Get these Adidas Park Street Low-Top Sneakers for only $33.74 shipped after code (regularly $75)!
Get these Steve Madden Daryn Sandals for as low as $33.74 shipped after code (regularly $80)!
Get these Marc Fisher Jellard Espadrille Platform Sandals for as low as $29.98 shipped after code (regularly $99)!
Get these Vans Ward Platform Kid’s Sneakers for only $29.98 shipped after code!
Get these Kamik Olivia Rain Boots for only $22.48 shipped after code (regularly $55)!
Valid through May 27, 2024, while supplies last.
Click here to shop this HOT shoes sale!
Shared May 18, 2024
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Simple Rules to Decorate Your Home No Matter Your Style or Budget (with Myquillyn Smith)
Simple Rules to Decorate Your Home No Matter Your Style or Budget (with Myquillyn Smith)
Myquillyn Smith was my very first in-person guest to ever have on the show — back in 2018! (Listen to episode 12.) And because I loved the in-person experience so much, we decided to ultimately only have in-person guests on the podcasts! She’s also someone I’ve known for years and years through blogging — back before social media was even a thing!
She has a brand-new book called, House Rules: How to Decorate for Every Home Style and Budget. It’s a fun and very visual book with lots of practical inspiration (and pictures of her house!). I underlined and dog-eared so many pages in the book and loved getting to ask her to share more about some of my favorite parts of the book.
Listen in as Myquillyn shares about why she wrote a book on rules (you’ll breathe a sign of relief to know it’s not going to be a rigid system but rather simple guidelines!), the importance of authenticity, and the power of starting with what you know. She also teaches us about the “Homey Trinity” and the significance of proper lighting and decor scale. And you’ll be encouraged as she talks about how limitations can actually lead to creativity in unexpected ways.
Plus, we discuss the concept of clutter and how to navigate the fine line between cozy and chaotic. We close this episode with me asking Myquillin what the hardest rule is for her to follow — you might be surprised with her answer!
Throughout the conversation, Myquillyn reminds us that our homes should serve us, not the other way around. I hope that this episode helps you to see and approach your home and decorating in a brand-new light!
Powered by RedCircle
In This Episode
[0:35] – Today’s guest is returning guest Myquillyn Smith!
[2:02] – Myquillyn talks about how starting online was intimidating and why she originally went by the pseudonym of The Nester.
[4:33] – Teaching decor involves guidelines, but breaking rules can enhance creativity and confidence.
[7:29] – Do what you know, use what you have, and finish what you started with.
[9:11] – Myquillyn advises starting with inspiration, creating a Pinterest board, and identifying the needs of a room for decorating confidently.
[12:12] – You’ll love this story of Myquillyn’s fancy drapes and how she adapted them to better suit her casual lifestyle.
[15:39] – When we find ourselves overly protective of our homes, it’s a sign that something needs to change.
[17:54] – Owning practical, easy-to-clean furniture allows freedom in enjoying and sharing your home.
[19:29] – How to appreciate thrift store finds without feeling compelled to own them brings peace and contentment.
[22:00] – The “Homey Trinity” of rugs, window treatments, and lighting.
[25:30] – Myquillyn identifies her biggest struggle as items left on the floor becoming “unintended decor”.
[26:44] – Hear my solution to Myquillyn’s challenge – keeping a dumpster in the garage for donations.
[30:38] – Be sure to check out 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home, and use the code PODCAST at checkout!
Links & Resources
- Crystal Paine
- The Crystal Paine Show – 12. How to Create a Home That Serves Your Family (with Myquillyn Smith)
- Myquillyn’s Website
- Myquillyn’s Instagram Page
- Myquillyn’s Threads Page
- 10 Weeks to a More Organized Home
Books
Social Media
Shared May 18, 2024
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Brigette’s $134 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6!
Brigette’s $134 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6!
Aldi
1 pkg 73/27 fresh Ground Beef ($3.29/lb) – $18.54
1 pkg boneless Chicken Breasts ($2.29/lb) – $11.89
1 pkg Chicken Drumsticks ($0.99/lb) – $5.43
1 bag Sliced Pepperoni – $2.49
2 16-oz pkgs Deli Meat – $7.98
1 10-lb bag Russet Potatoes – $4.49
1 bag Green Onions – $0.85
1 Cauliflower – $2.75
1 bag Spinach – $1.49
1 bag Mini Avocados – $3.19
1 3-ct bag Multi-Colored Peppers – $2.69
1 carton Mushrooms – $1.29
1 large tub Organic Spring Mix – $4.89
1 Pineapple – $1.79
1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $2.85
1 16-oz bag Mini Cucumbers – $1.89
1 bag Ever Crisp Apples (3.67lbs @ $1.39/lb) – $5.10
2 16-oz bags Shredded Cheese – $6.98
1 5-lb bag All-Purpose Flour – $2.35
1 4-lb bag Sugar – $2.95
1 32-oz carton Egg Whites – $3.79
1 32-oz carton Half and Half – $2.79
2 gallons Whole Milk- $4.30
1 54-oz carton Organic Unsweetened Almond Milk – $3.19
2 jars Pasta Sauce – $3.18
1 box Butter Quarters – $3.69
1 bag Nacho Chips – $2.39
1 bag Blue Multigrain Tortilla Chips – $2.29
1 bag Semi-Sweet Morsels – $2.25
1 32-oz pkg Spaghetti Noodles – $1.88
2 pkgs Hot Dog Buns – $2.58
2 loaves Sandwich Bread – $2.58
1 dozen Eggs – $2.05
Total: $128.84
Publix
3 boxes Dave’s Killer Bread Snack Bars (B1G1) – $8.59, used (2) $2/1 printables, plus received $2 Shopmium rebate, plus received (3) $1.25 Ibotta Rebates – $1.16 Money Maker after Coupons and Rebates!
3 bags Lays Potato Chips (B1G1) – $7.40 – used $2/3 Publix digital coupon – $5.40 for 3 after coupon
1 Mush Overnight Oats – $2, used $1/1 Publix Digital Coupon, plus received $2 rebate – $1 Money Maker after Coupon and Rebate
3 boxes Fudgsicles (B1G1) – $9.09, used $5/$15 Unilever Publix digital coupon, plus $2/2 Publix digital coupon – $2.09 for 3 boxes after Coupons
Total after Coupons and Rebates – $5.33
Grocery Total for the Week: $134.17
Weekly Menu Plan
Breakfasts
Oatmeal, Cereal, Smoothies, Zucchini Muffins, Eggs, Snack Bars
Lunches
Leftovers x 3
Deli Meat/Cheese Sandwiches, Chips, Cucumbers/Peppers, Applesauce x 4
Dinners
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks, Creamy Milk Rice, Roasted Cauliflower
Chicken Gravy over Rice, Tossed Salad, Broccoli
Homemade Pepperoni Pizza, Tossed Salad
Spaghetti, Homemade French Bread, Sliced Peppers
Chicken Pot Pie, Sliced Apples
Meatloaf (using half venison), Baked Potatoes, Biscuits, Green Beans
Leftovers
FREE DOWNLOAD: 60 Meals To Help You Avoid Takeout!
Meal time just got so much easier!
Did you do any grocery shopping this week? I’d love to hear what great deals you scored!
Going to College Debt-Free: Our Best Tips & Strategies
I recently shared a blog post on How to Graduate College Debt-Free. This post sparked so many discussions via comments and messages on my blog and through social media that I wanted to explore the topic more in-depth with Jesse on a podcast.
This is not a podcast saying that every single person should go to college with zero debt, nor is the purpose to heap shame and guilt on anyone who has college debt. Instead, our hope is just to challenge you to think outside the box a little and to share some strategies and inspiration for ways to save money on college.
In this episode, we not only share personal experience from Jesse going to college and law school debt-free, but also from recent things we’ve learned from our girls. We discuss how it begins with mindset. If you don’t believe you can do something or think something is not possible, there’s a good chance you’re not going to be very motivated to try.
We then get really practical and dig into tips and ideas for spending less on college, how to plan ahead for college expenses, how to leverage scholarships, and ways that you can significantly lower college costs just by going a nontraditional route.
I hope this episode inspires you with ideas, insights, and inspiration — whether you are thinking of going back to college, have a child who will be starting college in the not-too-distant future, or you are just curious how it might be possible to get a college degree without debt. As always, we’d love to hear your feedback, ideas, and thoughts after you listen to the episode!
Powered by RedCircle
In This Episode
[0:35] – Today’s topic – getting a debt-free college education, was inspired by a blog post of mine.
[2:27] – Belief in possibility is the initial step towards accomplishing anything.
[7:33] – Debt relies on uncertain futures; prioritize your current affordability.
[10:24] – Choosing in-state education and state scholarships drastically reduces college expenses.
[13:21] – Community colleges offer more affordable Gen Ed credits, which can really help save money.
[15:13] – Plan strategically and explore dual enrollment in high school + look into alternatives to living on campus.
[18:48] – Many students transfer schools after the first year, indicating initial choices may not be your final choices.
[21:45] – Challenge your own students to actively seek scholarships. Numerous opportunities exist, even for niche interests.
[24:12] – Treat scholarship hunting as a part-time job, maximizing financial aid opportunities.
[25:47] – Explore job opportunities offering tuition reimbursement or discounts, including college roles such as being an RA.
[29:53] – A mindset shift with creative solutions helps pave the way for generational financial freedom.
Links & Resources
Crystal Paine
Blog Post: How To Graduate College Debt-Free
College of the Ozarks – “Graduate Debt Free”
Social Media
70 Easy and Cheap Dinner Ideas for Family (Meals under $10)
With grocery prices on the rise, it can feel next to impossible to feed your family for anything less than a fortune. But with a little creativity (and this handy list of ideas), there are SO many different dinner options for less than $10! If you’re struggling to come up with cheap dinner ideas, look no further than this list of 70+ great ideas!
70 Cheap Family Meals Under $10
NOTE: We realize the location and cost of living may factor into your meal costs, but using our best judgment and knowledge of grocery prices, we feel pretty confident that the majority of these meals are budget-friendly no matter where you live.
If you’re struggling to come up with budget-friendly meals that the whole family will love, utilize this list of 70 dinner ideas under $10! If you’re willing to get creative, there are dozens of frugal dinner ideas that will keep your family (and your wallet) full!
Here are 70 easy dinner ideas your family will love — all for under $10.
Easy Beef Dinners Under $10
1. Shepherd’s Pie — 5 lb. bag of potatoes, 1 lb. ground beef, one bag of frozen peas & carrots, one can cream of chicken soup, and one can cream of chicken and herb soup.
2. Cottage Pie — Sauté one chopped onion with 1 lb. of ground beef, mix in two packages of frozen peas and carrots and onw can of beef gravy, then top with boxed or fresh mashed potatoes.
4. Rotel Pasta — A package of noodles, 1 lb. ground beef, and a can of Rotel mixed together.
5. Vegetable Beef Soup — Follow this recipe or make a simple pot of soup with ground beef, cream of mushroom (or celery) soup, mac or penne noodles, and Lipton beefy onion soup. (Add enough water to the mix before adding the noodles.)
6. Goulash — 1 lb ground beef, a bag of macaroni, a can of diced tomatoes, and one onion.
7. Hamburger Helper and Salad.
8. Taco Rice — Rice, ground beef, canned tomatoes, and taco seasoning.
Easy Chicken Dinners Under $10
9. Rotisserie Chicken, a bag of baby carrots, and a loaf of bread.
10. Chicken Leg Quarters with rice and veggies.
11. Aldi’s Popcorn Chicken, brown rice, and frozen broccoli.
12. Rotisserie Chicken with ramen noodles and a couple bags of mixed frozen vegetables.
13. Chicken Noodle Soup — Follow this recipe or make a quick version with whole chicken, cream of chicken soup, and egg noodles.
14. Chicken Fried Rice — Rice, eggs, mixed vegetables, and chicken.
15. Chicken Alfredo — Cooked chicken breast, broccoli, fettuccini, and a jar of Alfredo sauce.
16. Chicken Legs, butternut squash, and green beans.
17. Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole.
18. Costco Chicken, instant mashed potatoes, honey baby carrots, and pudding for dessert.
19. Chicken Pot Pie — Follow this recipe or make a quick version with rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes, and egg noodles or biscuits on top.
20. Chicken Nuggets, a box of mac and cheese, and canned vegetables.
21. Chicken and Dumplings — Whole chicken, a box of Bisquick, and a frozen bag of carrots and peas.
Easy Pork Dinners Under $10
22. Kielbasa Skillet — Noodles, broth, kielbasa, frozen veggies or canned diced tomatoes in a skillet.
23. Smoked Sausage, cabbage, & cornbread.
24. Zuppa Toscana Soup —1 lb of Italian sausage, a bag of potatoes, kale or spinach, and heavy cream.
25. Smoked Sausage Stew — Smoked sausage, 3 cans of green beans, 2 cans of potatoes simmered together in a pot.
26. Pork Loin, potatoes, and carrots all cooked in a slow cooker together.
27. Sausage & Buttered Noodles.
28. Chorizo Fried Rice — Rice, chorizo, eggs, and a big bag of frozen veggies.
29. Chili Dogs — Hot dogs, buns, canned chili, chips, and dip.
30. Bean and Chorizo Tacos with Mexican rice.
31. Sandwiches — Bread, lunch meat, and mayo.
32. Hotdogs and Buns, a bag of carrots, and a bag of potato chips.
33. Ham, Cheese, and Onion Toasted Sandwiches — We also love these Ham & Cheese Hot Pockets!
34. Lentil Soup with bacon and carrots.
35. White Beans and Rice with ham hocks inside.
36. Lentils, Smoked Sausage, and mixed veggies.
37. Pig in a Blanket ( rescent rolls, hotdogs, cheese) with tater tots on the side.
38. Smoked Sausage and Zatarain’s jambalaya mix.
39. Skillet Meal — Sausage, potatoes, onions, and green beans cooked in a skillet.
40. Sheetpan dinner — Sausage, sweet potatoes, and broccoli cooked on a sheet pan. (Or switch it up with any combo of veggies!)
41. Frozen Pizzas.
42. Aldi Large Pizza and bagged salad.
43. Pancakes — We LOVE these chocolate chip pancakes! We like to serve them with sausage and fruit!
44. Eggs, Toast, and Bacon. (Or try these Baked Egg Bites for something different and on-the-go!)
45. Quiche.
46. Breakfast Tacos.
Easy Seafood Dinners Under $10
47. Tuna Salad Sandwiches and chips.
48. Mac & Cheese with Tuna.
49. Pasta Roni, a can of tuna, and a can of peas.
50. Tuna Noodle Casserole.
51. Frozen Fish Sticks and French fries.
Vegetarian Dinners Under $10
52. Spaghetti and a loaf of French bread. (Or try Spaghetti Pizza or Baked Spaghetti Pie for something different!)
53. Baked Ziti and a bag of salad.
54. Broccoli Potato Soup — Frozen broccoli, cream of cheese soup, cream of potato soup, and two cans of milk.
55. Sweet Potato Skillet — Sweet potatoes, rice, beans, and frozen vegetables.
56. Vegetable Soup with homemade biscuits.
57. Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup.
58. PB & J Sandwiches with raw veggies or fruit on the side.
59. Rice and Vegetable Stir-Fry.
60. Indian Stew — Sweet potatoes, a bag of lentils, a bag of rice, and a can of coconut milk.
61. Bean and Cheese Quesadillas with veggies or fruit on the side.
62. Bean Burritos.
63. Black Bean Soup.
64. Rice and Bean Bowls with taco fixings.
65. Eggs and Potatoes.
66. Veggie Omelets.
67. Biscuits and Gravy with scrambled eggs and cheese.
68. Fried Eggs on top of potatoes with hot sauce.
69. French Toast and eggs.
70. Baked Potatoes and toppings. (Baked potato bars are the best!)
Looking for even more dinner ideas? Don’t miss these:
- 50+ Cheap Easy Dinner Ideas
- 15 Pantry Recipes to Make When Your Cupboards are Bare
- 20 Make-Ahead Freezer-Friendly Dinner Ideas
- How to Eat Well on a $40 Grocery Budget
FREE DOWNLOAD: 60 Meals To Help You Avoid Takeout!
Meal time just got so much easier!
What are your favorite easy, budget-friendly meals?
Shared May 14, 2024
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Gretchen’s $4.29 CVS Order (FREE after Rewards!) and $25 Walgreens Online Pickup Order ($6 after Rewards!)
Gretchen’s $4.29 CVS Order (FREE after Rewards!) and $25 Walgreens Online Pickup Order ($6 after Rewards!)
Looking to save money without actually shopping in-store? With a full time job and a little one still at home, I can’t usually shop the drugstore deals in-store, but have come to love doing pickup orders. I always place my order online using my Walgreens and/or CVS apps and within 10 minutes it is ready for pickup at my closest store.
CVS Online Pickup Order
Bought 2 Axe Body Wash – $5.99 each (Buy 2, Get $2 ECBs)
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
Used $4/2 CVS app coupon
Bought 1 CoverGirl 4-Kit Eye Shadow – $5.59
Bought 1 CoverGirl Perfect Blend Pencil – $5.79
(Buy 2 participating items, Get $5 ECBs)
Used the $5/1 CVS app coupon
Used promo code PICKUP20 (took off $1.07)
And used $6 in ECBs from previous shopping trip
Paid $4.29, Received $7 in ECBs
Walgreens Online Pickup Order
Bought 2 Garnier Fructis Hair Gel – $4 each
Buy 2, Get $4 in Walgreens Cash
Used $3/2 Walgreens e-coupon
Bought 2 Blink Eye Drops – $11.99 each
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
Used $6/2 manufacturer e-coupon
And used $4/1 Walgreens e-coupon
Bought 1 Nivea Creme – $1.29
Used $1.29/1 Walgreens e-coupon
Bought 2 Dove Men’s Care Products – $6.79 and $7
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
Buy 2, Get 5 Walgreens Cash
Used $5/2 Walgreens e-coupon
Bought 2 Tresemme Hair Products – $7.29 each
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
Buy 2, Get 5 Walgreens Cash
Used $5/2 Walgreens e-coupon
Bought 1 Walgreens Disinfectant Spray – $1.99
Used promo code WAG20 (took off $0.40)
Bought 1 Scott’s Paper Towels – $5
Used $1/1 manufacturer e-coupon
And used $1.25/1 Walgreens e-coupon
Used promo code WAG10 (took off $2.60)
Used $5 Walgreens cash back on a $20+ purchase e-coupon
Paid $25, Received $19 in Walgreens Cash
Did you do any drug store shopping this week? I’d love to hear what great deals you scored!
Shared May 11, 2024
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Brigette’s $111 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6
Brigette’s $111 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6
My older sister, Brigette, shares her shopping trips and menu plans every week! You can go HERE to see all of her weekly menu plans and you can go HERE to read all about her family!
Aldi
2 gallons Whole Milk – $4.60
1 carton Orange Juice – $3.29
1 box Rice Squares – $2.65
1 box Crispy Rice – $1.95
1 box Crunchy Granola Raisin Bran – $2.69
1 box Cinnamon Crunch Squares – $2.79
1 family-size box Honey Nut Crisp Oats – $2.65
2 boxes Macaroni and Cheese – $1.14
1 can Parmesan Cheese – $2.95
1 Deli Mustard – $1.29
1 20-oz jar Yellow Mustard – $0.95
2 8-oz pkgs Deli-Sliced Cheese – $3.30
2 8-oz blocks Cheese – $3.50
3 16-oz bags Shredded Cheese – $10.47
1-lb box Butter Quarters – $3.69
1 bag frozen Crinkle Cut Potatoes – $2.29
2 16-oz pkgs Deli Meat – $8.70
2 bags Pepperoni – $4.98
1 jar Salsa Con Queso – $1.99
3 jars Pasta Sauce – $4.68
1 jar Mild Salsa – $2.35
1 bag Brown Sugar – $2.09
1 Cauliflower – $2.75
2 3-ct pkgs Multi-Colored Peppers – $4.98
1 3-ct pkg Green Peppers – $1.85
1 bag Green Onions – $0.85
1 party-pack Tomatoes – $4.99
1 large tub Organic Spring Mix – $4.89
1 bag Cilantro – $0.55
1 Watermelon – $4.99
1 pkg Tortillas – $1.99
1 jar Oregano – $0.99
1 bag Tortilla Chips – $1.95
1 bag Organic Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips – $2.99
Total: $108.76
My boys went fishing and brought home two large bags of fish
10-lbs of Apples (reduced) from our favorite roadside stand – $3
Grocery Total for the Week: $111.76
Weekly Menu Plan
Breakfasts
Cereal, Zucchini Muffins, Eggs (our friends with chicken gifted us with eggs this week!), Oatmeal, Smoothies
Lunches
Cheese Quesadillas, Chips, Peppers, Watermelon x 2
Deli Meat/Cheese Sandwiches, Apples and Peanut Butter, Peppers x 2
Leftovers x 3
Dinners
Baked Parmesan Fish, Creamy Milk Rice, Biscuits, Tossed Salad
Meatloaf (made with half venison), Baked Potatoes, Biscuits, Broccoli
Pepperoni Pizza, Tossed Salad
Date Night Out (kids eat Macaroni and Cheese at home)
Fried Fish, French Fries, Roasted Cauliflower
Spaghetti, Green Beans
Veggie Quiche, Watermelon
FREE One Week Menu Plan!
Done-For-You Dinner Recipes With Simple Ingredients and a Grocery Shopping List!
Did you do any grocery shopping this week? I’d love to hear what great deals you scored!
OVER-SPENDING EVERY SINGLE MONTH?Grab these FREE Budgeting Sheets!
Click here to download!
Free Printable Mother’s Day Handprint Art Pack
This Mother’s Day Handprint activity looks fun!
Download this free printable Mother’s Day Handprint Art Pack for a fun activity to show Mom how much love her!
Gretchen’s CVS and Walgreens Online Pickup Orders!
Looking to save money without actually shopping in-store? With a full time job and a little one still at home, I can’t usually shop the drugstore deals in-store, but have come to love doing pickup orders. I always place my order online using my Walgreens and/or CVS apps and within 10 minutes it is ready for pickup at my closest store.
CVS Online Pickup Order
4 boxes General Mills Cereal – $1.99 each
2 pkg Carefree Liners – $1.99 each (Buy 2 – Get $2 ECBs)
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
2 Gillette Shaving Cream – $3.89 each (Buy 2 – Get $4 ECBs)
On Sale Buy One, Get One 50% off
Used promo code PICKUP20 (20% off order)
Paid $13.27, Received $6 in ECBs
Walgreens Online Pickup Order
3 Complete Home Freezer Bags – 3/$2.79
2 Dove Hand Wash – $4 each
Used $4/2 Walgreens e-coupon
2 Dove Shampoo – $4 each (Buy 2 – Get $5 Walgreens Cash)
Used $2/1 Walgreens e-coupon
Used promo code WAG10 (took off $0.40)
And used $4 in Walgreens cash from previous order
Paid $8.39 after code and cash, Received $5 in Walgreens Cash
Did you do any drug store shopping this week? I’d love to hear what great deals you scored!
Hot Deals on Sandals and Flip Flops for the Family!
Check out these fantastic deals on sandals and flip flops!
Nordstrom Rack is having a huge sale on sandals for the family! Score amazing deals on Teva, Sorel, BOC, Chaco, Havaianas, Steve Madden, TOMS, and so many more!
Tip — Sizes and styles are selling out quickly, so it might be helpful to filter on the top by your specific size!
Shipping is free on orders over $89.
Valid for a limited time only.
Shop the entire Sandal Sale here.
Brigette’s $6.05 CVS Shopping Trip (FREE after Rewards!) and $23.31 Walgreens Shopping Trip ($1 after Rewards!)
Love drug store shopping each week? Don’t miss these GREAT deals Brigette grabbed this week at CVS and Walgreens!
CVS Shopping Trip
All of my coupons are from the CVS app. I highly recommend it if you don’t have it already! Just log in to your account and clip the coupons you want, and they automatically come off in the store. There are CVS store coupons and manufacturer coupons to clip on the app – and you can stack them on the same product.
What I Bought:
2 Degree Spray Deodorant (B1G1 50%) – $10.84
Receive $3 ECB’s when you buy 2
Used $2/1 Degree Spray CVS digital manufacturer’s coupon
Received 1,500 Fetch points (about $1.50)
= $8.84 for 2 total out of pocket ($4.34 for 2 after ECB’s and Rebate!)
4 boxes General Mills Cereal – $7.96
Used $1/2 General Mills CVS digital manufacturer’s coupon
Received (4) $0.50/1 General Mills Ibotta Rebates
= $6.96 for 4 total out of pocket ($4.96 for 4 after Rebate!)
Totals:
Total: $15.80 plus tax
Paid with $10.07 ECB’s from previous weeks
Total Paid Out Of Pocket: $6.05 plus I received $3 ECB’s and $3.50 Rebates!
Walgreens Shopping Trip
All of my coupons are from the Walgreens app. I highly recommend downloading it if you haven’t already. You can clip both Manufacturer’s and Store coupons and stack them together on the same item.
What I Bought:
2 Dove Shampoo – $8
Receive $5 Register Rewards when you buy 2
Used $2/1 Dove Walgreens digital manufacturer’s coupon
= $6 for 2 total out of pocket ($1 for 2 after Register Rewards!)
4 pkgs Glide Floss Picks – $16
Receive $6 Register Rewards when you buy 2
Used $6/4 Walgreens digital manufacturer’s coupon
= $10 for 4 total out of pocket ($4 for 4 after Register Rewards!)
2 Colgate Toothpaste – $9
Receive $4 Register Rewards when you buy 2
Used $3/1 Optic White Toothpaste Walgreens digital manufacturer’s coupon
Used $2/1 Colgate Total Toothpaste Walgreens digital manufacturer’s coupon
= $4 for 2 total out of pocket (FREE after Register Rewards!)
Totals:
Total: $20 plus tax
Used $7/$30 Walgreens digital booster coupon
Total Paid Out Of Pocket: $23.31, plus I received $15 Register Rewards and $7.33 Walgreens Cash!
Did you do any drug store shopping this week? I’d love to hear what great deals you scored!
Free Printable Ladybug Number Match Game
This Ladybug Number Match game is so cute!
Download a free printable Ladybug Number Match Game for some fun practicing number recognition, counting, and number matching!