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Shared Sep 24, 2019 comment

My 4-Week Offline Sundays Experiment

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 24, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Can you believe that I was working every single day of the week most weeks so far in 2019? Yes, it’s true, even though I’m a little embarrassed to admit it. In this week’s podcast episode, I share why I thought this was necessary and why I decided to try taking Sundays off.

Missed previous episodes of The Crystal Paine show? You can listen to them here.

When Jesse and I first got married, we always took Sunday offline. It was a day for us to just enjoy going to church, resting, and being together as a family.

In recent years, I’ve fallen out of that practice (I’m not even exactly sure why, but I did). In addition to going to church and volunteering at church, Sunday became a day for me to also play catchup on a lot of blogging work and emails.

This meant that I was usually working at least some hours every single day of the week. Which I don’t recommend and am a little embarrassed to admit… because it meant I rarely had a stretch of offline time for more than a few hours at a time.

My 4-Week Commitment

I could make a lot of excuses and seemingly valid reasons as to why I “needed” to work on Sunday, but I realized that working 7 days a week wasn’t good for my soul or body or family, so I decided to try something different and make a 4-week commitment to unplug and go offline on Sundays.

In today’s podcast episode, I share really candidly the surprising results of my experiment and how much it has changed my life. (Oh and Jesse also shares about his current morning routine and a type of chair we love. I talk about a book I finished recently and the one food I’ve been loving in my first trimester.)

In This Episode:

[02:14] Listen in as Jesse shares about his morning routine and an outdoor chair that we love.

[06:13] I tell you about a book I recently finished that goes along so well with this podcast episode.

[09:26] Let’s talk about my Unplugged Sundays Experiment.

[09:59] For years, I justified working on Sunday for a variety of reasons.

[11:30] … but really it was a lack of trust in God and trying to control things in my own strength.

[13:03] Rather than making a big longterm commitment, I did a four-week-long trial of not working on Sunday.

[16:31] The benefits of the time off have been incredible. I share the different surprises that have happened along the way.

[18:06] Why I now feel so much more productive in the 6 days I do work.

Links and Resources:

Zero Gravity Chairs
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry
Crystal’s Favorite Things on Amazon
CrystalPaine.com
MoneySavingMom.com
Crystal’s Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!)
Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: [email protected]

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

The podcast is available on iTunes, Android, Stitcher, and Spotify. You can listen online through the direct player we’ll include in the show notes of each episode. OR, a much easier way to listen is by subscribing to the podcast through a free podcast app on your phone. (Find instructions for how to subscribe to a podcast here.)

Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission — at no additional cost to you. Thank you so much for your support!

Shared Sep 23, 2019 comment

7 Books I Read in August (+ my really honest reviews)

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 23, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Want to know what books I finished in August? In 2019, I’m sharing the books I read each month and what my honest thoughts were on those books. If you love books, you don’t want to miss this post! (You can see all of my book reviews for this year here.)

I set a goal to finish 80 books in 2019 and a second goal that 40 of those books will be books I already own. (You can see which books I picked to read from those I already own here).

By the way, I’m truly loving using GoodReads to track my reading. You all were right! It is really motivational to see my progress! And I’ve been ahead on my goal for the last month!

I finished 7 books in August —- yay! Here’s what I read + my honest thoughts on each of the books:

Killing Reagan

I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed Killing Lincoln and Killing Kennedy. Honestly, I was expecting for there to be a lot more in the book about the assassination attempt. As it was, it felt like that was a very small part of the story and the bulk of the book was devoted to Reagan’s earlier years.

That said, I did find it fascinating to hear that there is belief that the assassination attempt contributed to Reagan’s Alzheimer’s disease and that his Alzheimer’s disease was already beginning to show up during his presidency. I had not heard either theory before and found that part of the book very interesting and intriguing.

Verdict: 3 stars

Rhythms of Renewal

I loved this book enough to ask Rebekah Lyons (the author) to join me on a podcast episode! (Listen to that episode here.)

In this book, she shares 4 rhythms she believes everyone should prioritize in their life, why they should prioritize them, and practical ways to make them a reality.

In a world where “hustle harder” can often seem the over-arching message, this book is a welcome message to make time for play, rest, creativity, savoring, and more.

Verdict: 4 stars

The Healing Compass

This book was sent to me by its author and she had kindly mentioned my courses, Make Over Your Mornings and Make Over Your Evenings in it.

While it had a lot of good suggestions and ideas, I didn’t find a lot in it that was new to me — maybe because I’ve read a lot of similar books in the past?? 🙂

If you are someone who feels overwhelmed with life or is struggling through a health crisis, though, I feel like there could be some helpful and encouraging information in it. The author’s story is moving and she definitely has lived out what she encourages in the book!

Verdict: 2 stars

The Terminal List

If you listen to our podcast, you know that Jesse loved this book and encouraged me to read it. I found that I could download it for free on Libby so decided to try it out.

Let’s just say, Jesse’s taste in books and my taste in books are VERY different, I quickly discovered. This is a thriller, supposedly, but to me it seemed more like a “Let’s kill as many people as possible all while using a lot of bad words” book. Which is not really my type of book, ahem.

But hey, I read it. I finished it. And I survived. And now I know that when Jesse recommends a book, it’s probably safe to say I can steer clear of it. 😉

Verdict: 2 stars

The Ministry of Ordinary Places

I truly loved this book. I shared this quote from the book and posted this on Instagram:

It’s easy to talk about ideas. It doesn’t take a lot of work to criticize systems. It’s pretty simple to point fingers.

It’s a lot harder to get in the game and do something to actually make a difference… but that’s what’s going to change our world.

Smile at that person. Befriend the neighbor who is struggling. Show up for someone who is lonely.

Lean in and love those who are hard to love. Choose kindness instead of condemnation.

Don’t stay where it’s safe and comfortable. Step out and offer a hand. Open your door and your heart. Listen more than you talk.

Don’t just surround yourself with people who are similar to you or who believe exactly what you do or who think just like you do. Love and befriend those who come from very different backgrounds, beliefs, and political parties. If you’re anything like me, you’ll discover you have a whole lot to learn from them!

Instead of giving out lofty-sounding solutions, let’s go start being the solution — one person at a time. Let’s be hope-givers with mud on our shoes.

Verdict: 4 stars

Paris Letters

I had big hopes for this book. What’s not to love about a book set in Paris with the subtitle, “One woman’s journey from the fast lane to a slow stroll in Paris.” And while there were a few parts of the book that I thought were insightful, most of it fell flat for me.

Verdict: 2 stars

The Four Tendencies

I’d wanted to read this for a long time, so when it came available to download for free on Libby, you better believe I downloaded it.

It was very thought-provoking in parts and I had fun trying to figure out which tendency I am. I went into it thinking I was a questioner, but of course I had to question that for the entire book… because, hello, I’m a questioner! 😉

I did feel like some parts were redundant and that I would prefer to read this book over listening to it because I think I’d get more out of it by reading it (I’m more of a visual learner). But I do feel like it was valuable to listen to and I’d like to go back and read it in the future.

Verdict: 3 stars

What have you been reading recently? Any books you think I really need to read soon? I’d love to know!

Shared Sep 23, 2019 comment

Gretchen’s $91 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 5

Published: by Gretchen on September 23, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Dillons

1.84 lbs Red Grapes – $1.78

1 Krusteaz Pancake Mix – $3.49, used $2.50/1 e-coupon AND $1.50/1 Ibotta rebate – Free plus $0.51 overage after coupon and rebate

2 bags Kroger Shredded Cheese – $2.99 each

3 pkg Goldfish – $0.97 each

2 boxes Mom’s Best Cereal – $1.99 each, used 2 $1/1 printable – $0.99 each after coupons

1 box Kellogg’s Peanut Butter Corn Pops – $1.79, used $1.50/1 e-coupon – $0.29 after coupon

2 Cascadian Farms Cereal – $1.99 each, used $1/2 e-coupon – $1.49 each after coupon

1 Simple Truth Tortilla Chips – $0.97, used $0.50/1 e-coupon – $0.47 after coupon

1 Breyer’s Ice Cream – $2.49

2 boxes Barbara’s Cereal – $1.99 each, used 2 $1/1 printable – $0.99 each after coupons

2 bags Frozen Veggies – $1 each, used $0.50/2 mailer coupon – $0.75 each after coupon

1 Kroger Ice Cream – $2.50, used $0.45/1 mailer coupon – $2.05 after coupon

2.96 lbs Bananas – $1.45

1 pkg Oreo Cookies – $1.99

5 Hormel Snacks – $1.67 each, used 5 $1.50/1 Ibotta rebates – $0.17 each after rebates

1 Green Leaf Lettuce – $1.29

1 bag Flour – $1.59, used $0.40/1 mailer coupon – $1.19 after coupon

Used $0.10 Ibotta rebate for any receipt

Total after coupons and rebates: $30.48

Aldi

1 box Spaghetti – $1.39

1 pkg Applesauce Cups – $1.25

1 bag Frozen Peas – $0.79

2 bags Frozen Broccoli – $0.95 each

1 bag Oyster Crackers – $0.79

1 bag Shredded Cheese – $2.69

1 bag Frozen Tilapia – $3.79

1 bag Chocolate Chips – $1.69

1 loaf Bread – $0.99

1 lb Frozen Ground Beef – $3.39

1 lb Sausage – $2.29

1 Unsweetened Applesauce – $1.95

1 bag Tortilla Chips – $0.89

1 box Fruit & Grain Bars – $1.39

1 jar Pasta Sauce – $0.85

2 cans Green Beans – $0.49

2 Half & Half – $1.55 each

1 lb Butter – $2.89

1 bag Apples – $1.99

1 pkg MooTubes – $1.55

1 bag Baby Carrots – $0.89

2.53 lbs Peaches – $2.50

1 bag Mandarins – $2.69

1 Honey Bear – $2.89

5 lbs Baking Potatoes – $2.19

1 gallon Milk – $1.49

1 bag Frozen Chicken Breasts – $5.85

1 Deli Cheese Pizza – $4.99 (We just recently discovered these and are hooked! They are SO yummy and large enough to feed our entire family. You can’t beat “eating out” for only $5!!)

Total: $60.62

Total for both stores: $91.10

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Cereal, Eggs, Toast, Oatmeal, Granola Bars, Fruit

Lunches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Hormel Snack Lunches, Cheese/Fruit/Crackers, Cheese Quesadillas, Mac & Cheese, Lunch at my in-laws, Leftovers

Dinners

Deli Pizza from Aldi, Fruit Salad (We are also hosting game night later this night and are serving Ice Cream, Brownies, Chips/Salsa and Oreos.)

Grilled Tilapia/Chicken, Rolls, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Spaghetti, Steamed Okra, Homemade Bread

Taco Bar

Snacky Dinner/Leftovers

Pancakes, Eggs, Fruit Salad

Chicken & Rice Bowls, Steamed Broccoli

Shared Sep 21, 2019 comment

Brigette’s $85 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Published: by Brigette on September 21, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

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

1 gallon Whole Milk – $1.49

1/2 gallon 1% Milk – $0.70

1/2 gallon Unsweetened Almond Milk – $1.49

1/2 gallon Ice Cream (not pictured – already in freezer!) – $1.99

1 16.9-oz jar Organic Olive Oil – $3.79

4 pkgs Frozen Broccoli Florets – $3.80

3 pkgs Fresh Zucchini (@$0.89/lb) – $3.96

2 pkgs Fresh Broccoli Crowns – $2.38

1 pkg Romaine Hearts – $2.09

1 pkg Baby Carrots – $0.69

2 bags Fresh Green Beans – $2.58

1 large tub Organic Spring Mix – $3.39

1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $2.49

1 bunch Bananas – $0.59

2 2-lb bags Honey Crisp Apples – $3.98

1-lb Sausage – $2.29

2 pkgs Fresh Boneless Chicken Thighs (@$1.19/lb) – $8.84

1 pkg 73/27 Fresh Ground Beef, reduced ($1.69/lb) – $3.84

1 pkg Turkey Franks – $1.89

1 16-oz pkg Deli Meat – $2.85

1 8-oz pkg Sliced Cheddar Cheese – $1.79

1 24-oz carton Cottage Cheese – $1.79

1 16-oz bag Shredded Cheddar Cheese – $2.09

1 16-oz bag Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – $2.09

1 jar Garlic Powder – $0.69

1 tub Baking Cocoa – $1.49

1 jar Baking Powder – $0.69

2 boxes Macaroni and Cheese – $0.50

1 bag Pecan Halves – $4.29

1 bag Nacho Chips – $0.75

1 loaf Sandwich Bread – $0.65

1 bag Hot Dog Buns – $0.65

1 pkg Rice Cakes – $1.45

2 dozen Eggs – $1.52

Total: $75.46

Harris Teeter

4 cans Green Beans – $1.33

1 Cauliflower – $1.99

2 boxes Mueller’s Pasta – $1.60, used $0.55/2 SS 09/08 (doubled) – $0.50/2 after coupon

1 box Special K Cereal – $1.97, used $0.50/1 printable (doubled) – $0.97 after coupon

1 bag Red Grapes (@$0.99/lb) – $3.23

1 box Texas Toast – $2.00, used $0.75/1 printable (doubled) – $0.50 after coupon

2 cans Cinnamon Rolls – $1.94 (I’m trying not to be offended that my almost 11-yr old requested these for his birthday breakfast instead of my homemade cinnamon rolls. Ha!)

Total after Coupons: $10.46

(Our Neighbor dropped off the above at our house. He had some extra things he couldn’t use – and we can ALWAYS use peanut butter, cereal, and fresh fruit!)

Grocery Total for the Week: $85.92

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

~ Cinnamon Rolls, Scrambled Eggs (birthday breakfast request)

Everyone is responsible for making/cleaning up their own breakfasts. Choices include:

Oatmeal, Cereal, Scrambled/Boiled/Fried Eggs, Veggie Omelets, Toast, Cottage Cheese, Fruit, Smoothies, Oven Roasted Veggies

Lunches

Sliced Turkey Sandwiches, Carrots, Apples

Peanut Butter Rice Cakes, Bananas, Peppers

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Mini Sweet Peppers, Grapes (birthday lunch request)

Leftovers, Fruit x 4

Dinners

Grilled Hot Dogs, Grilled Zucchini, Cheesy Hashbrown Potatoes, Tossed Salad

Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Texas Toast, Broccoli, Ice Cream Pie with Pecan Crust (birthday dinner request)

Chicken Noodle Soup, Tossed Salad, Breadsticks

Biscuits and Gravy, Sliced Plums, Green Beans

Date Night Out (kids will eat macaroni and cheese, green beans, apples at home)

Baked Chicken Thighs, Roasted Cauliflower, Tossed Salad, Biscuits (double batch)

Venison Roast, Creamy Milk Rice, Green Beans, Leftover Biscuits

Shared Sep 20, 2019 comment

This crazy journey I’ve been on the last 14 years (and yes, you CAN make money blogging!)

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 20, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Yes, you can make money from blogging! In this post, I share my story — and I tell you how you, too, can start making money from blogging!

How I Started to Make Money Blogging

In 2005, I started this thing called a “blog” — something that most people in my circle of friends and family had never heard of before. I didn’t have a clue what I was doing, but I had a big dream: I wanted to find a way to earn enough money from home so I can supplement our meager income to allow me to be able to stay home with our baby girl, Kathrynne.

In addition to my big dream, I also had perseverance — something I was going to need in big supply over the next few years. I was very, very determined and that determination drove me not to give up even during the many, many times when I wanted to.

That little blog had a few readers. Then a few dozen. I kept blogging, kept commenting on other blogs, kept writing articles for other sites and linking to that blog, and kept networking with other online entrepreneurs.

Over the course of many months, that little blog grew a tiny bit and then a tiny bit more. Pretty soon, I woke up one day and realized that I had a few hundred readers. That idea just blew my mind.

{My first official professionally done website header — added when I switched from Blogspot to Typepad.}

The Income Began With a Little Trickle

I started watching what other successful people were doing, read books and blog posts on monetizing a blog, and jumped out and experimented with a number of things.

Pretty soon, there was a little trickle of income coming in from that blog. When I say “trickle”, I truly mean it. It started with $10 per month, then $20 per month, then $50 per month.

If you would have divided my blogging income by the hours invested in blogging, I was probably making what would amount to a few nickels per hour. However, I was learning, the blog was slowly growing, and I was truly enjoying the process of writing and interacting on a blog.

Speaking at my first blogging conference — I was a scared, insecure mess inside and I can see it written all over my face in this picture.

Starting to See the Potential to Make Money Blogging

As time marched on and I kept plugging away, I found other creative ways to make money blogging — like selling ebooks and then an online course on cutting your grocery bill. I went from making $50 a month to a few hundred dollars per month.

I started to see the potential. And I began to believe that it truly would be possible to earn a part-time income from blogging someday.

My husband and I began talking about adding a niche blog dedicated to frugal living. There was a lot of interest in the topic, it was something I was passionate about and experienced in, and I was pretty sure I could do some specific things to monetize a frugal living blog that I couldn’t do on the blog I currently had.

My second blogging conference — I was still nervous and scared, but I felt more myself and more whole and I can see it in my face here.

How MoneySavingMom.com Began

It took about a year from the time the initial idea was birthed to when the final product, MoneySavingMom.com actually happened. But in the fall of 2007, I announced the launch of MoneySavingMom.com on the other blog I had.

I still remember the post where I let the world know MoneySavingMom.com was official. I said that I was probably going to blog on MoneySavingMom.com “about 3 times per week”. {Yes, 3 times per week. That still cracks me up!}

The first version of MoneySavingMom.com was on Blogspot. It was an all white background with capital letters at the top of the page that said MONEY SAVING MOM. {Clearly, I was very into bells and whistles. ;)}

I had spent $10 to buy the website URL and that was all I could afford. Later, I paid $25 to have the teen daughter of a mom I knew design a header for me. But those were the very humble beginnings of something that I could have never imagined…
My first radio interview — again, this was a completely unnerving experience for shy me. I felt like just going back to my hotel room and crying when it was over because I was sure I had totally bombed it.

Rapid Growth Beyond What I Could Imagine

Since I’d already put in countless hours to build an online platform over the two previous years, knew how to run a blog, and had a pretty good grasp on what topics people were interested, jumping in with MoneySavingMom.com was much easier than it would have been had I been starting from scratch.

I also was at the right place, at the right time, because the economy was beginning to tank, coupons were becoming popular, and the media started to do a lot of coverage of money-saving ideas and frugal living topics.

My initial readers told their friends who told their friends, people found me from random searches and stuck around, and within a few months, MoneySavingMom.com had grown to 14,000 to 16,000 pageviews per day.

It. was. mind-blowing!

I didn’t really know what to do, but I knew that I needed to continue to produce good content and continue to do all I could to help people save money. I also continued to learn all I could about win-win ways to make money blogging.

My first book: basically an exercise in how to do everything wrong! I learned so much, and wished I could have done it all over again because there would be so much I would change!

Fulfilling My Dream — and Making So Many Mistakes

Within a few months, I was making $800 to $1200 from MoneySavingMom.com. And the income just kept increasing. By the end of the first year, I was making the equivalent of a full-time income from blogging.

All of a sudden, I woke up and realized that not only was I living my dream, it was a LOT more work than I could have ever imagined — especially as the blog continued to grow!

The past 14 years have been a journey… one riddled with many ups and downs. I’ve made many mistakes, let people down, and sometimes posted things before taking time to really think through what I’d written.

Over the years, I’ve also been arrogant, said and written hurtful things, and taken on too much and stretched myself too thin. Many times, I’ve had my priorities out of whack and given my family the leftovers instead of my best.

Through it all, I’ve grown, matured, been humbled, had to ask forgiveness, and learned a great deal about my own limits. I’ve gone from a very black and white person who thought she had everything figured out and thought she should share her very legalistic, dogmatic views with everyone, to discovering this beautiful thing called “grace” and realizing that there are very few hills worth dying on.

My first TV interview — I was a complete nervous wreck. Literally shaking from head to toe!

I’ve grown up a lot, faced a lot of fears, and done things I never thought I was humanly capable of.

In addition, I’ve confronted many of my long-held insecurities head on. And I’ve had many opportunities to work through my long-held tendencies to be a people-pleaser.

Scared of the Scrutiny from Making Money Blogging

You see, as the blog took off and became something more than a little mommy blog, I struggled a lot. Part of me was so excited about the growth and the possibilities. The other part of me wanted nothing more than to just run away from it all and go back to being a stay-at-home mom.

As a normally private person, I hated having my life scrutinized by people I didn’t know. I was scared to come out and talk much about the business side of my life — the meetings, the responsibilities, the opportunities — because I knew some people wouldn’t be happy and would criticize the fact that I was making a good income, was running a thriving business, and was no longer just the frugal stay-at-home mom blogger struggling to make ends meet that I had been when I started blogging.

Growing Into My Own Skin

I love being a wife and mom, managing my home well, saving money, and getting great deals. I’m also a business woman who loves marketing, entrepreneurial ventures, and strategy and monetization.

It took me awhile to be brave enough to say that I am both out loud. But once I did, it has freed me up to make decisions that were best for our family.

Knowing who I am and embracing that has been so freeing for me. Yes, I still regularly get emails and comments from people who wish I was different. However, for the most part, this community has rallied around our family. You have no idea how much you bless us.

My 4th(?) blogging conference: This time, I went with the sole desire to pour into others and look for other people to bless. Guess what? I completely forgot about my usual insecurities and ended up having a blast!

I Would Have Never Imagined This Life

Looking back over the past 14+ years, I never would have imagined what my life would look like today. I never would’ve pictured myself running a business with multiple team members, speaking at events, working with brands, teaching people how to blog, doing media interviews, or being a New York Times bestselling author.

Nor would I have pictured that this blog would be the catalyst for our family to get in a much better position financially. I never, ever envisioned blogging would allow us to no longer live on a beans and rice budget.

And I couldn’t have dreamed that blogging would allow us to could pay cash for a house and give generously. Or, that it would open the door for Jesse and I to work together from home.

I’m so thankful for the opportunity to get to work together with my husband and best friend! While we have our disagreements and struggles, we are a definite team. I wouldn’t be who I am today without him encouraging me, supporting me, and being my biggest cheerleader.

THANK YOU For Being a Big Part of This Journey

You all have been a big part of this journey. This blog would never have grown like it has nor would the doors of opportunity have opened without you. I am forever humbly grateful for each of you.

While the income from this blog has been a blessing, the community I’ve found in you all has been priceless. You’ve supported us, loved us, prayed for us, and cheered us on — through thick and thin. And you’ve forgiven me when I’ve made mistakes and you’ve been incredibly loyal.

Looking Ahead to the Future

I don’t know what the next 14 years of my life will hold. Right now, I’m just focusing on living one day at a time!

I want to live each day that I’m given to the best of my ability. As long as I’m given the privilege of blogging here, I want to use this platform to make an impact.

Blogging has broken me. Blogging has healed me. And, more than anything, blogging has taught me that perseverance pays off.

So no matter where you are in life right now, I want to encourage you: Keep on. Press forward. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and keep holding onto hope. And most importantly: don’t give up! The best is yet to come!

WANT TO SAVE $100 FAST?!Join the FREE 14-Day Savings Challenge!

Click here to sign up!

Shared Sep 19, 2019 comment

Homemade Breakfast Pockets

Published: by Olivia on September 19, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

If you’re looking for a unique breakfast idea that you can make ahead of time, then be sure to try these freezer-friendly homemade hot pockets!

{Psst! If you’re looking for other easy breakfast ideas, check out these quick and healthy Back to School Breakfast Recipes — perfect for busy weekday mornings! Also, if you love individual freezer meals, be sure to try these Easy Individual Mini Lasagnas and these Easy Individual Chicken Pot Pies!}

Recipe Post by my sister, Olivia

These Breakfast Hot Pockets are SO Convenient!

I’ve always enjoyed the challenge of coming up with freezer-friendly recipes that can be reheated in a snap! Although I love preparing a fresh meal, the convenience of being able to pull something from the freezer at a moment’s notice can be a lifesaver!

Growing up, I liked to spoil my brothers by filling the freezer with healthy snacks, breads, and personal-sized main dishes just for them. They loved being able to grab something before work, before school, or whenever hungry; and I loved the opportunity to come up with new recipes!

Now that I am married, I find individual freezer meals even more beneficial – especially for breakfast! It is so nice to be able to have a hearty breakfast on the table for my husband in less than five minutes.

Hot Pockets Breakfast — Perfect for Busy Mornings!

I was super excited to recently come up with a new freezer-friendly breakfast recipe — these homemade hot pockets!

Breakfast pockets are the perfect solution for busy mornings, because they literally take just a few minutes to warm up in the microwave and can be eaten on the go.

Also, I love how versatile this recipe is. For instance, I often leave out the cheese (my husband is dairy-free), add extras to the filling (chopped spinach, sliced olives, green chiles, bacon, etc.), and use tortillas in place of the dough (like breakfast burritos). It can easily be adjusted to your liking!

These homemade hot pockets are best served with salsa or your favorite hot sauce. Scroll down to get the printable recipe!

Breakfast Hot Pocket Recipe Ingredients

Dough Ingredients:

2 cups warm water
4 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
6 cups flour

Filling Ingredients:

1 pound sausage
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 large green pepper, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch of ground cayenne pepper, optional
12 eggs
2+ cups cheddar cheese, shredded

homemade breakfast hot pockets ingredients

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe Variations

This recipe is so easy to mix up, depending on your family’s taste preferences or what you have in the house.

Ham and bacon are both great alternatives to sausage — or you could add a bunch of sauteed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian hot pocket.

Mix up the veggies and seasonings for new flavors.

And try a variety of cheeses to see which one you like best.

How to Make Homemade Breakfast Pockets

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and sugar using a fork.

2. Add the salt, oil, egg, and flour (start with 5 cups).

3. Form mixture into a dough and knead on a flour-dusted countertop for 5-10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary if the dough is too sticky.

4. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. While dough is rising, brown the sausage, onions, and peppers in a skillet over medium heat with chopped.

6. Drain off fat, then stir in seasonings and eggs.

7. Continue cooking until the eggs are set, stirring continuously to scramble eggs and prevent them from burning.

8. When the eggs are finished cooking, remove the skillet from the burner. Stir in the cheese and set it aside to cool.

9. Preheat oven to 350ºF.

10. While oven is preheating, punch down dough and divide it into 2 equal parts.

11. On a lightly floured surface, roll each part into a large rectangle, then cut both larger rectangles into eight smaller 5×8 inch rectangles.

12. Place about 1/2 cup filling on half of each rectangle. (Note: Be sure to place filling along the long edge so that the final hot pocket will be the shape of a hot dog instead of a hamburger).

13. (optional) Sprinkle with more cheese.

13. Fold the rectangle over to enclose the filling and pinch the dough shut. (I used a fork to seal the edges once they were on the pans.)

14. Place rectangles on greased or foil-lined baking sheets.

15. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly brown.

16. Glaze tops with melted butter.

Homemade Breakfast Hot Pockets on a plate

Tips for Making Homemade Breakfast Hot Pockets

Let the dough rise long enough so it’s light and fluffy — this will make a big difference in the texture of the finished hot pockets.

Also, make sure your filling is fully cooked through before you put it inside the dough and make sure the dough is tightly sealed so the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.

Storing Breakfast Hot Pockets

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat a frozen hot pocket, simply remove the desired number of pockets from the freezer and warm them individually in the microwave for about two minutes or until heated through.

Alternatively, warm on a cookie sheet in a 350º oven for 20 minutes, or until heated through. (You may want to cover with foil to prevent over-browning).

Serve with salsa or hot sauce, if desired!

Recipe

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe

Author Olivia

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Rise Time 1

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients:

2 cups warm water
4 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
6 cups flour

Filling Ingredients:

1 pound sausage
1/2 cup onion chopped
1 green pepper chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch of ground cayenne pepper optional
12 eggs
2 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and sugar using a fork.
Add the salt, oil, egg, and flour (start with 5 cups).
Form mixture into a dough and knead on a flour-dusted countertop for 5-10 minutes, adding more flour as necessary if the dough is too sticky.
Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
While dough is rising, brown the sausage, onion, and peppers in a skillet over medium heat.
Drain off fat, then stir in seasonings and eggs.
Continue cooking until the eggs are set, stirring continuously to scramble eggs and prevent them from burning.
When the eggs are finished cooking, remove the skillet from the burner. Stir in the cheese and set it aside to cool.
Preheat oven to 350º.
While oven is preheating, punch down dough and divide it into 2 equal parts.
On a lightly floured surface, roll each part into a large rectangle, then cut both larger rectangles into eight smaller 5×8 inch rectangles.
Place about 1/2 cup filling on half of each rectangle. (Note: Be sure to place filling along the long edge so that the final hot pocket will be the shape of a hot dog instead of a hamburger).
(optional) Sprinkle with more cheese.
Fold the rectangle over to enclose the filling and pinch the dough shut. (I used a fork to seal the edges once they were on the pans.)
Place rectangles on greased or foil-lined baking sheets.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly brown.
Glaze tops with melted butter.

Notes

These freeze wonderfully and will last for 2-3 months in the freezer (if you don’t eat them all first!

When you’re ready to eat a frozen hot pocket, simply remove the desired number of pockets from the freezer and warm them individually in the microwave for about two minutes or until heated through.

Alternatively, warm on a cookie sheet in a 350º oven for 20 minutes, or until heated through. (You may want to cover with foil to prevent over-browning).

Serve with salsa or hot sauce, if desired!

Nutrition

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More Breakfast Ideas:

If you’re looking for even more breakfast ideas, try one of these!

Let us know if you try these homemade hot pockets! Also, what are some of your favorite breakfast recipes?

Shared Sep 17, 2019 comment

Our HUGE announcement!!

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 17, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

On today’s episode of the podcast, we get to announce the biggest surprise of our lives: I’M PREGNANT!!!!!!

The fertility specialist said we weren’t even a candidate for IVF, but y’all, our God is bigger than a specialist’s diagnosis or multiple tests that said it would never, ever be a possibility.

When we got the devastating new last year that we would never be able to conceive again — even with a lot of fertility help — we decided to grieve and find closure and then let the dream of expanding our family through pregnancy die. Instead, we felt God leading us to foster and we spent all summer working towards getting licensed.

Two days after we finished all the foster care licensing requirements, we found out we were expecting (through a crazy set of circumstances!)

It was the most hilarious and humbling gift from God ever. To say we were in complete shock would be an understatement.

I never thought I’d get to carry another life inside of me. Every day is a gift. The morning, noon, and night sickness is a gift. And instead of wanting to just get the first trimester over with, I’m seeking to savor each day as best as is possible.

If you want all the details on how we found out (I thought I was going through early menopause!) or how we told the kids, be sure to tune in to today’s episode of The Crystal Paine Show.

Oh and yes, we’re still moving forward with foster care (we found out two days after our home study was finished!) and I’m due April 30th — the same due date I had with Silas almost 11 years ago!!

Note: I know that many of you are struggling through the pain of infertility right now. My heart’s desire is that by me sharing this, it would in no way cause additional pain for you but would give you a glimmer of hope. God is still in the miracle-working business and He can do anything.

At the same time, please know that my heart has hurt for you as I thought about announcing our news today. You are seen. You are not forgotten. And I would be honored to pray for you — just send me a message or leave a comment and I’ll pray for you by name.

In This Episode:

[00:25] We have some HUGE news for you! It’s complete and unexpected miracle!

[02:53] Details on why going through infertility testing and procedures helped us realize the miracle we had in our three children.

[03:27] We found out two days after finishing our foster care home study (the last portion required to get licensed).

[04:30] I was feeling super anxious and irritable and stressed about the home study, which seemed out of character for me.

[05:27] All the details on the crazy way we ended up finding out and why I thought I was going through early menopause!

[11:00] My heart goes out to all the women who are struggling with infertility. My hope is that this announcement gives you hope not sadness.

[12:51] Want to know how the kids took the news?

Links and Resources:

Crystal’s Favorite Things on Amazon
CrystalPaine.com
MoneySavingMom.com
Crystal’s Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!)
Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: [email protected]

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Shared Sep 17, 2019 comment

I got a free $30 Walmart gift card for an old car seat!

Published: by Gretchen on September 17, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Did you hear about the Walmart Car Seat Trade In Event? You can get a FREE $30 Walmart gift card when you bring in a used car seat!

Do you have an old car seat laying around? Or has your child outgrown their current car seat?

Gretchen from the Money Saving Mom Team here! Check out this deal I scored…

My toddler, Talon, has recently barely been fitting into his infant car seat but I hadn’t purchased him a new one yet because I didn’t want to pay the money. I was holding out hope I might find one on clearance somewhere. Yesterday, I saw that Walmart was holding a Car Seat Trade In Event where you bring in an old or used car seat and receive a $30 Walmart gift card in exchange.

Talon’s car seat was disgusting – you mamas know how those car seats get – with food and stains and probably some poop on it somewhere, too. I wasn’t sure if they would even accept it but I thought it was worth a try and headed to Walmart.

Sure enough, when I walked into Customer Service, I saw that there was a HUGE box full of car seats (and some were pretty dirty!). The nice lady behind the desk took the car seat and asked me to show her my driver’s license. Then she handed me a $30 Walmart gift card!!

I was able to purchase Talon a new, bigger car seat using the $30 gift card and ended up paying only $27 out of pocket! What a deal!!

Do you have a used or old car seat laying around your house? Be sure to bring it to Walmart before September 30, 2019 to score a FREE $30 gift card!

Please note that this does not work on booster seats and there is a limit of 2 car seats/gift cards per person. I recommend calling your location ahead of time to see if they’re participating.

Shared Sep 16, 2019 comment

Cheapest Places to Print Photos

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 16, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Looking for the best online photo printing deals or the cheapest place to print photos? If you love to order prints online but hate paying full price, check out these tips for getting cheap photo and picture prints!

{Looking for all the latest photo deals? Go HERE.}

Reader Kara wrote in with this great question:

“Hello, I was wondering what is the least expensive way to print pictures? I used to wait until Shutterfly did their free prints deals but last time I did that it seemed that their shipping fees had gone up. Any other suggestions?”

Places we love for Cheap Photo Prints

I know many of you are probably like Kara and on the hunt for the best online photo printing deals!

So I decided to take this question to the readers on our Facebook page to see what their best tips were (thank you to those of you who commented!). They came up with a lot of great suggestions, but these were the top companies!

Before you go to order prints online, be sure to check out these tips for getting cheap photo prints:

1. Shutterfly

While shipping costs have gone up slightly over the years, Shutterfly is still a go-to option for cheap photo prints because of the amount of coupon codes and deals they offer on a regular basis.

In fact, Shutterfly regularly offers free print deals to new and established customers where all you have to pay is shipping.

Also, if you have the Shutterfly app, you get FREE unlimited 4×6 and 4×4 prints — just pay shipping!

To keep shipping costs lower, try ordering 95 prints when a free print deal is going on. The shipping fees can be up to $4 less by simply decreasing your order by a few prints.

Or, consider doing in-store pickup instead. During the checkout process, click the “1-Hour Pick Up Available” link under eligible 4×6 prints to search for your preferred local Target, Walmart, or CVS store by zip code.

2. Cheapest Photo Prints: Snapfish

Snapfish offers standard 4×6 prints starting at 9 cents each, plus shipping. They regularly offer free and discounted print deals to new and established customers. This is probably one of the cheapest places you’ll find for photo prints.

Sometimes they even offer deals where you can get FREE prints with FREE shipping! You can also sign up for texts to get 50 FREE prints.

The Snapfish App gives you 100 free prints each month for the first year you sign up with the app. You only have to pay for shipping and one reader reported her shipping was only $2.95. Shipping costs may vary according to where you live. You can edit photos within the app and see how they will print.

If you choose to pick up your prints in-store from participating CVS or Walgreens stores, you can see the cost difference on the order screen. For instance, you can get up to 49 prints from CVS at 29 cents each. If you get 50 or more prints, the price goes down to 19 cents apiece. It might end up being cheaper to choose this option instead of paying for the 9 cent prints plus shipping.

3. Amazon Prime Photos

An easy and budget-friendly way to order prints online is Amazon Photos — where they offer 4×6 prints for 17 cents each with free shipping.

Members receive 5 GB of storage free but after that, you’ll need to choose a digital storage plan. If you’re a Prime member, you get unlimited storage for free!

They do occasionally offer free prints and photo deals, too.

Note: If you’re not a Prime member, you can sign up for a FREE 30-day trial!

4. Cheapest Place to Print Photos: FreePrints App

Another great way to save when you order prints online is to use the FreePrints app!

This is without a doubt probably the cheapest place to print photos. Customers receive 85 free 4×6 prints per month and only need to pay for shipping. You can get up to 1000 free prints in a year! If you need more than 85 prints, you can pay for those.

Shipping starts at $1.99 and is never more than $9.99 no matter how many prints you order. There’s also a FreePrints Photobooks app, which will give you one free photo book per month.

There are no subscriptions and no commitments.

5. Walmart

You can order 12 cent 4×6 photo prints online at Walmart for home delivery or one-hour pickup. They offer free shipping on orders over $35, otherwise you’ll have to pay shipping fees for delivery to your home.

This may not be the best quality photos around, but it’s a great affordable option!

6. Printique (Formally Known As Adoramapix)

Readers really loved Printique’s photo quality, especially for photo albums. Their 4×6 photos are currently 32 cents each + shipping. They also offer a full range of photo sizes, so they’re a great option if you need a non-standard print.

You can sign up for special deals on their website. And they offer coupon codes at the top of the page on their website.

7. Mpix

People who prioritize photo quality will also want to take a look at Mpix, a service even photographers recommend! Readers are impressed with the quality, as well as the care they take in packaging your products. Their 4×6 prints are 36 cents each. Shipping is free on orders over $35.

They have a Reward Program where you can earn points towards discounts and special offers with every purchase you make. You can earn 100 points just for signing up for a Mpix account. When you reach 500 points, you’ll get free shipping or a $5 coupon.

8. Costco Cheap Print Photos

A lot of readers said Costco was a great inexpensive option for photo prints.

Their 4×6 prints start at just 11 cents with free shipping, which is a great price!

9. Sam’s Club Cheap Picture Prints

At Sam’s Club, 4×6 photos are 10 cents each with free shipping.

They regularly offer special deals and you can upload your photos on their app. New customers get 50 free prints when they sign up for an account.

10. Photo Print Cheap with Walgreens

Walgreens offers your first 74 4×6 prints for 38 cents each. If you order 75 or more, you’ll pay 28 cents each. The price is the same for in-store pickup or mail delivery. Standard shipping costs start at $1.99 and go up to $11.99.

Many readers report they’ll place their order through the app or website and pick it up at the store an hour later or at their convenience instead of having it shipped. The Walgreens app allows you to print the photo directly from your phone.

Customers can also sign up to receive special deals by email. And Walgreens regularly sends out free print and coupon deals to make their print prices even better. (You can also earn Balance Rewards points!)

One reader went so far as to say she’s saved more money than she’s spent on prints at Walgreens!

Is Walgreens or Walmart better for photos?

If you’re going based on simply the price, you’ll want to choose Walmart every time, since you can’t beat their 12 cent prints online! The print quality at Walmart doesn’t tend to be quite as sharp as Walgreens, though.

Of course, if you’re going for super high quality print, you’ll probably choose one of the other online services over retailers, anyway. It’s all a personal preference, honestly!

11. CVS

As a competitor of Walgreens, they have a very similar pricing structure. The first 74 4×6 prints from Walgreens are 39 cents each and 75 or more prints are just 29 cents each.

And just like Walgreens, you can place your order through the app or website and pick it up at the store an hour later (or at your convenience) to avoid paying shipping fees.

12. Local Photo Shop

Bonus Tip: You might also try your locally owned photography shop as a creative way to get cheap picture prints, because they typically offer coupons and have some of the best quality around! While this will vary by location, it’s definitely an option to look into!

Do you have a favorite cheapest place to print photos? What are your best suggestions for getting cheap photo and picture prints — either online or in-stores?

Shared Sep 16, 2019 comment

Brigette’s $80 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Published: by Brigette on September 16, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

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 64-oz cartons Orange Juice – $3.28

1 64-oz carton 1% Milk – $0.70

2 64-oz cartons Whole Milk – $1.40

1 64-oz carton Unsweetened Almond Milk – $1.79

1 32-oz carton Half and Half – $1.55

1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $2.65

2 pgs Broccoli Crowns – $1.90

2 pgs Frozen Riced Cauliflower – $3.78

1 pkg Romaine Hearts – $2.09

2 cans Green Beans – $0.76

1 pkg Zucchini – $1.17

1 pkg Mini Cucumbers – $1.99

2 pkgs Baby Carrots – $1.70

1 bag Green Grapes ($0.89/lb) – $2.30

1 large tub Organic Spring Mix – $3.49

1 3-lb bag Gala Apples – $3.19

1 Cauliflower – $2.09

1 bunch Bananas – $1.09

1 24-oz carton Lowfat Cottage Cheese – $1.45

1 pkg String Cheese – $1.99

1 8-oz pkg Deli Sliced Cheese – $1.79

1 16-oz bag Shredded Mozzarella – $2.19

2 16-oz bags Shredded Cheddar Cheese – $4.38

1 32-oz Plain Nonfat Greek Yogurt – $3.45

4 individual-sized cartons Pumpkin Spice Yogurt – $3.13

1 can Whipped Topping – $2.65

1 16-oz carton Heavy Whipping Cream – $1.65

1 pkg Pumpkin Spice Coffee – $3.79

1 pkg Taco Seasoning – $0.29

1 jar Spaghetti Sauce – $0.85

1 canister Quick Oats – $2.29

1 16-oz pkg Deli Meat – $2.85

1 pkg Plain Rice Cakes – $1.19

1 bag Nacho Cheese Chips – $0.75

1 loaf Sandwich Bread – $0.65

3 dozen Eggs – $2.34

1 pkg (3.24lbs) 85/15 Ground Beef, reduced – $6.30

Grocery Total for the Week: $80.90

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Everyone is responsible for making/cleaning up their own breakfasts. Choices include:

Cereal, Oatmeal, Fruit, Yogurt/Cottage Cheese, Smoothies, Fried/Scrambled/Boiled Eggs, Veggie Omelets, Toast

Lunches

Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter and Honey, Apples, Carrots, Cheese Sticks x 2

Deli Meat/Sliced Cheese Sandwiches, Grapes/Bananas, Cucumbers x 2

Leftovers x 3

Dinners

Taco Salad, Cauliflower Fried Rice (I don’t use an actual recipe, but something similar to this)

Hubby Lovin’ Chicken (recipe from “Trim Healthy Table” cookbook), Roasted Broccoli, Perfect Baked Potatoes

Hamburgers, Baked French Fries, Grilled Zucchini

Spaghetti Carbonara (I had this on my menu plan for last week, but we didn’t end up needing it as we had more leftovers than I had planned on), Crusty French Bread, Tossed Salad

Coffee Pot Roast (using venison roast in a slow cooker – I don’t have an Insta Pot yet! ;))), Green Beans, Cooked Carrots, Bread Machine Buttery Rolls

Chicken Pot Pie, Tossed Salad, Grapes

Leftovers

OVER-SPENDING EVERY SINGLE MONTH?Grab these FREE Budgeting Sheets!

Click here to download!

Shared Sep 16, 2019 comment

Gretchen’s $47 Grocery Shopping Trip and Menu Plan for 5

Published: by Gretchen on September 16, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

1 Half & Half – $1.55

4 lbs Sugar – $1.73

1 bag Navel Oranges – $2.19

1 loaf Bread – $0.99

1 dozen Eggs – $0.58

2 Cantaloupe – $0.99 each

1 lb Butter – $2.89

1 pkg Flour Tortillas – $0.99

1 bag Brown Sugar – $1.29

1 bag Plums – $0.99

1 pkg Deli Sliced Cheese – $1.79

1 pkg Thin Wheat Crackers – $0.99

1 bag Oyster Crackers – $0.79

1 bag Peaches – $2.19

1 pasta Sauce – $0.85

1 bag Corn Chips – $0.79

1 pkg Bagels – $1.49

1 can Pumpkin – $0.79

1 Unsweetened Applesauce – $1.95

1 can Pineapple Chunks – $0.89

1 bag Chocolate Chips – $1.69

2 pkg Frozen Broccoli – $0.95 each

1 box Fruit Squeezies – $1.49

Total: $32.78

Dillons

1 bag Frozen Chicken Breasts – $6.99 (Aldi was out of this so I had to buy it at Dillons.)

3 Totino’s Frozen Pizzas – $1 each, used $1/3 e-coupon – $0.67 each after coupon

2 cans Bush’s Beans – $1 each, used 2 $1/1 Checkout 51 rebates – Free after rebate

1 box Halo Top Pops – $4.99, used $1.50/1 e-coupon AND $1.50 Ibotta rebate AND $1.50 Kroger cash back rebate – $0.49 after coupon and rebates

1 box Zataran Rice – $1.29, used $0.50/1 e-coupon – $0.79 after coupon

1 dozen Eggs – $0.59

2 Annie’s Mac & Cheese – $1.59 each, used $2.09/2 e-coupon – $0.54 each after coupon

1 gallon Milk – $1.59 (Aldi was also out of milk!)

2 Cucumbers – $0.50 each

Total after coupons and rebates: $14.53

Total for both stores: $47.31

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Cereal, Oatmeal, Bagels, Eggs, Fruit

Lunches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Turkey Sandwiches, Tossed Salad Bar, Cheese/Crackers/Fruit, Frozen Pizza, Cheese Quesadillas, Leftovers

Dinners

French Toast, Eggs

Chicken & Rice with Pineapple

Grilled Chicken, Biscuits, Steamed Broccoli

Bean Quesadillas, Chips, Fruit Salad

Date Night (The kids will eat mac & cheese.)

Spaghetti, Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins, Fruit Salad

Homemade Cheese Pizza, Breadsticks, Tossed Salad

Shared Sep 14, 2019 comment

15 Ways to Eat Out on the Cheap

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 14, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Want some tips on how to eat out on the cheap? Here are 15 tried and true ideas to help you enjoy restaurant food — on a budget.

How to Eat Out on the Cheap

Love eating out? Don’t love how much it can cost? Here are 15 ideas to save money on eating out:

1. Go out to lunch instead of dinner.

2. Always use restaurant coupons.

3. Order water instead of beverages that cost.

4. Split an entree with someone else when possible.

5. Sign up for Birthday Freebies and use those when you eat out.

6. Go out for dessert instead of a full meal.

7. Use restaurant gift cards that you bought discounted.

8. Sign up for restaurant apps and email lists to be notified of great coupons and specials — or even freebies!

9. Earn free restaurant gift cards from Fetch and Swagbucks.

10. Go on Kids’ Eat Free nights.

11. Eat a snack before you leave the house so you’re not as hungry.

12. Don’t order appetizers or desserts.

13. Eat out at Costco or IKEA instead of a restaurant.

14. Apply to be a mystery shopper and you could get paid to eat out! (I have done this many times in the past!)

15. Go to a fast food restaurant with a dollar menu and let everyone choose 1-3 items off the dollar menu!

What are your favorite tips for saving money on eating out? Share them in the comments!

P.S. For more ideas, check out this post on How to Save Money on Eating Out.

Shared Sep 10, 2019 comment

4 Rhythms You Need In Your Life

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 10, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

“We don’t need to hustle to prove something God already says is true.”

I can’t stop thinking about this quote, ever since I read it in Rebekah Lyon’s book, Rhythms of Renewal.

If we’re gut honest, how often are we working so hard in an effort to try to impress someone else, earn someone’s approval, or prove something to ourselves or others?

Jesus came so we can stop striving and instead rest in the beautiful truth that we are enough in Him. We don’t have to do more, be more, try harder, do better, and hustle like crazy to win His favor. In Christ, we are pre-approved. There’s rest and freedom at the foot of the Cross!

I was so honored to get to sit down and record a podcast episode with Rebekah Lyons recently on what it looks like to live from a place of renewal and rest instead of from a place of stress. We talked about the 4 rhythms everyone needs to have in their life, how easy it can be to incorporate them, and how much of a difference they can make.

She also shared about their recent adoption and how this “holy interruption” has beautiful impacted their life in ways she couldn’t dream or imagine.

If you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, constantly stressed, and/or always needing to try to rightly control every situation in your life, don’t miss this week’s podcast episode.

In This Episode:

[01:18] Rebekah shares a bit about herself, her story, and how her new daughter has dramatically changed her life and work.

[04:21] Listen as Rebekah and I share the books we’re reading.

[07:54] Hear why Joy, Rebekah’s new daughter, is saving her life.

[14:13] What’s saving my life? My gratitude journal!

[15:36] Rebekah and I dive into what inspired her to write her newest book.

[21:17] Learn the four rhythms we should focus on in our lives and in what order.

[25:12] View this book as an “undo” type of book. It’s not meant to add to your plate but to clear it.

[26:45] Practice the rhythms by doing small things every day. Rebekah gives great starting points and ideas!

Links and Resources:

Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons
Rebekah’s Website
Rest by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang
The Ministry of Ordinary Places by Shannan Martin
Gratitude Journal
Crystal’s Favorite Things on Amazon
CrystalPaine.com
MoneySavingMom.com
Crystal’s Instagram account (I’d love for you to follow me there! I usually hop on at least a few times per day and share behind-the-scenes photos and videos, my grocery store hauls, funny stories, or just anything I’m pondering or would like your advice or feedback on!)
Have feedback on the show or suggestions for future episodes or topics? Send me an email: [email protected]

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Shared Sep 9, 2019 comment

15 Inexpensive Meals with Ingredients Already in Your Pantry

Published: by Crystal Paine on September 9, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Looking for pantry recipes to make when your cupboards are bare and money is tight? Here are some of our family’s favorite dinner ideas. Best of all, most of these are super quick and easy ideas, too!

{Trying to save money on groceries? Sign up to get 10 Easy Ways to Cut Your Grocery Bill By $50.}

Cheap Easy Meals on a Budget: You probably have the ingredients in your pantry already!

I have been utilizing the concept of eating from the pantry to save hundreds of dollars on our grocery bill for years! If there’s one simple way to save on your groceries, it’s using up what you already have and reverse meal planning (planning your menu around what you already have on hand)!

If you’re looking in your pantry and things seem sparse, use this list to come up with some easy dinner ideas on a budget with simple ingredients you probably have stashed in the back of the cupboard!

Remember — cooking delicious meals doesn’t have to break the bank! By harnessing the power of pantry staples you already have on hand, you can whip up cheap and easy meals that are both satisfying and nutritious.

Think canned beans, pasta, rice, and a variety of spices—these humble ingredients can transform into many different dishes that satisfy your hungry family without emptying your wallet.

With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can turn what you already have on hand into comforting meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, nutrition, or your budget! Check out these easy ideas below!

Cheap Meal Ideas When Your Cupboards Are Bare

1. Grilled Cheese

You can use any kind of cheese and any kind of bread!

2. Eggs and Toast

This is an easy meal that even younger kids can make!

3. Loaded Baked Potatoes

Get creative with whatever you might have on hand that would work as a topping: taco meat, chili, beans, ham, bacon, cheese, broccoli, sour cream, cottage cheese, etc. You could even do chopped chicken, salsa, and cheese.

4. Any Pasta With Pasta Sauce

If you have any canned tomatoes or ground beef or onions, you can add it to the sauce. Then, serve it sprinkled with any kind of cheese you might have on hand.

Want to get a little fancier? Try these Mini Lasagnas!

5. Sandwiches

The options are pretty ended here: Peanut Butter/Jelly (or PB & honey — we love to toast the bread for a little extra something!) Egg Salad, Meat/Cheese, etc.

Tip: Did you know you can freeze PB&J sandwiches?

6. Build Your Own Taco Salad

Use whatever taco-like ingredients you have on hand: Ground beef or turkey with homemade taco seasoning, beans, lettuce, chips, tomatoes, cheese, etc.

7. Crockpot Sausage and Peppers

This is a staple at our house. If I have kielbasa in the freezer and I’ve gotten peppers on markdowns, I’ll chop up both and add some onions or potatoes or sweet potatoes (if I have them) and cook this with a little water and seasonings in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low. You can you serve over rice or pasta (if you didn’t include potatoes).

8. Meat/Potatoes/Frozen Veggies Hash

This was a standby recipe at our family’s house growing up. If we needed a quick dinner, we’d brown some ground beef with onions, and then add some chopped potatoes and fry those until tender. Then we’d add corn or peas. I think this recipe originally came from the More With Less Cookbook.

9. Refried Beans and Cheese

We like to spoon refried beans into a baking dish and top with cheese and then heat these up in the microwave (or you can bake in the oven) until heated through and then serve with chips and salsa or spread onto tortillas to make bean and cheese burritos.

10. Breakfast For Dinner

Breakfast foods are always a quick and easy pantry meal idea, depending on what you have on hand. Pancakes, Waffles, or French Toast served with eggs and/or bacon (if you have any) and fruit. You could also do a big pan of Baked Oatmeal and top it with any fruit you have and serve it with yogurt or milk.

You can find some of our favorite breakfast recipes here, here, and here.

Tip: Have extra eggs on hand and some meat and cheese? Make these yummy Egg & Cheese Bites or this World’s Easiest Breakfast Casserole.

Cheap Easy Meals from Our Followers:

11. Quesadillas

Betsy said, “We have what I call refrigerator quesadillas. Tortillas, cheese and anything else leftover– chicken, ham, zucchini, corn, etc. Stick it in between tortillas and cheese and you’re pretty much set!

12. Have a Chopped Competition

One of my followers, Amanda, said that they love to play Chopped when they are trying to use up what they have on hand. (If you’re unfamiliar with it, Chopped is a TV show where contestants are given random ingredients and they have to make a recipe with those ingredients.) What a fun idea!

13. Tortilla Soup

Charity said: “I almost always have bullion, diced tomatoes, canned black beans, an onion or garlic and some veggies (typically celery, carrots and corn) and a handful of rice and crushed tortilla chips around. We’ll top it with shredded cheese.”

{Some of our other favorite simple soups to make are Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tortellini Soup, Crockpot Taco Soup, Best Ever Black Bean Soup, Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, and Hamburger Vegetable Soup!}

14. Cheater Chili

Tanya said: “I always have the ingredients for ‘Cheater Chili’ in my pantry and boxes of Jiffy cornbread mix. A can of chili beans, a can of white beans, a can of kidney beans (or whatever kind you want really) and a jar of Pace Picante sauce. Heat until hot. I add ground beef when I have it or have time, but it’s great without it too.

15. Barbecue Cups

Amanda said: “We make Barbecue Cups — ground beef with bbq sauce, place on top of raw biscuit in a muffin tin add cheese to top, bake in oven.”

More Inspiration for Cheap Meals to Make

You might also find some of these links helpful when trying to come up with pantry recipes or eat what you already have on hand…

P.S. For more ideas, check out this post on my Facebook Page.

What are YOUR favorite pantry recipes to make when money is tight?

Shared Sep 9, 2019 comment

Gretchen’s $63 Grocery Shopping Trip and Menu Plan for 5

Published: by Gretchen on September 9, 2019 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Dillons #1

I shopped at two Dillons stores this week as I wanted to check for markdowns at both. We have THREE (yes, three!!) Dillons stores within a mile radius of our house so if I have a little bit of extra time, I like to do this. I didn’t find much produce marked down so I will probably pop back into one of them tomorrow since they usually mark down a lot of produce on Tuesdays.

2 boxes Nature’s Valley Panda Puffs – Marked down to $1 each

2 boxes Mott’s Fruit Snacks – $1.99 with e-coupon (no longer available)

1 Chobani Yogurt – $1, used Free e-coupon (no longer available) – Free after coupon

2 Giant Size Boxes General Mills Cereal – $1.99 with e-coupon (no longer available), used $1/2 e-coupon – $1.49 each after coupons

1 Value Pack Nature Valley Granola Bars – $1.99 with e-coupon (no longer available)

4 pkg Kraft Cheese at $3.19 each – On Sale Buy One Get One Free – $1.59 each after sale

18 count Eggs – Marked down to $0.50

3 lbs Kroger Ground Beef – Marked down to $2.99 (I was SO excited to find this! I will stretch this into 5-6 meals.)

Total after coupons: $20.82

Dillons #2

1 bag Kroger Unbleached Flour – $1.59

1 Breyer’s Ice Cream – $3.99, used $1/1 e-coupon – $2.99 after coupon

1 jar Dry Yeast – $5.99

1 Kroger Tortillas – $1.79 (Aldi was completely out of tortillas.) 🙁

2 Cucumbers – $0.50 each

1.88 lbs Gala Apples – $2.43

1 Green Leaf Lettuce – $1.29

Total after coupon: $17.08

Aldi

1 Unsweetened Applesauce – $1.95

2 Half & Half – $1.55 each

1 Cottage Cheese – $1.59

2.09 lbs Red Grapes – $3.53

1 Sour Cream – $0.89

1 pkg Frozen Chicken Breasts – $5.85

1 loaf Bread – $0.99

1 pkg Sliced Cheese – $1.79

1 gallon Milk – $1.49

1 pkg Oyster Crackers – $0.79

1 pkg Corn Chips – $0.79

1 Ranch Dressing – $0.89

1 pkg Chocolate Chips – $1.69

Total: $25.34

Total for all stores: $63.24

Menu Plan for This Week

We are still getting veggies from our garden so I’ll be using those this week.

Breakfasts

Oatmeal, Cereal, Toast, Eggs

Lunches

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Turkey Sandwiches, Cheese/Crackers/Fruit/Veggies, Applesauce/Yogurt, Tossed Salad, Leftovers

Dinners

Lasagna, Freezer Biscuits, Steamed Peas, Sliced Green Peppers

Sour Cream Enchiladas, Rice, Fruit

Snacky Dinner (Popcorn, Crackers, Fruit, Leftovers)

French Toast & Eggs

Mac & Cheese, Grapes

Sausage (from the freezer) & Potatoes, Banana Muffins, Steamed Broccoli

Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili, Corn Chips, Sliced Veggies

Summer Bucket List

Summer Bucket List

FREE Summer Bucket List!!

My 4-Week Commitment

In This Episode:

Links and Resources:

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

What have you been reading recently? Any books you think I really need to read soon? I’d love to know!

Dillons

Aldi

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Lunches

Dinners

Aldi

Harris Teeter

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Lunches

Dinners

How I Started to Make Money Blogging

The Income Began With a Little Trickle

Starting to See the Potential to Make Money Blogging

How MoneySavingMom.com Began

Rapid Growth Beyond What I Could Imagine

Fulfilling My Dream — and Making So Many Mistakes

Scared of the Scrutiny from Making Money Blogging

Growing Into My Own Skin

I Would Have Never Imagined This Life

THANK YOU For Being a Big Part of This Journey

Looking Ahead to the Future

Wondering how to start earning money from home — with even just a few hours a week?

WANT TO SAVE $100 FAST?!Join the FREE 14-Day Savings Challenge!

These Breakfast Hot Pockets are SO Convenient!

Hot Pockets Breakfast — Perfect for Busy Mornings!

Breakfast Hot Pocket Recipe Ingredients

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe Variations

How to Make Homemade Breakfast Pockets

Tips for Making Homemade Breakfast Hot Pockets

Storing Breakfast Hot Pockets

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe Reheating Instructions

Breakfast Hot Pockets Recipe

Ingredients 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients:

Filling Ingredients:

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

Love this recipe?

More Breakfast Ideas:

Let us know if you try these homemade hot pockets! Also, what are some of your favorite breakfast recipes?

FREE 50+ Easy and Cheap Breakfast Ideas!!

In This Episode:

Links and Resources:

How to Listen to The Crystal Paine Show

Ready to dive in and listen? Hit the player above or search for “The Crystal Paine Show” on your favorite podcast app.

Places we love for Cheap Photo Prints

1. Shutterfly

2. Cheapest Photo Prints: Snapfish

3. Amazon Prime Photos

4. Cheapest Place to Print Photos: FreePrints App

5. Walmart

6. Printique (Formally Known As Adoramapix)

7. Mpix

8. Costco Cheap Print Photos

9. Sam’s Club Cheap Picture Prints

10. Photo Print Cheap with Walgreens

Is Walgreens or Walmart better for photos?

11. CVS

12. Local Photo Shop

Do you have a favorite cheapest place to print photos? What are your best suggestions for getting cheap photo and picture prints — either online or in-stores?

Aldi

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Lunches

Dinners

OVER-SPENDING EVERY SINGLE MONTH?Grab these FREE Budgeting Sheets!

Aldi

Dillons

Ingredients