WANT TO WORK FROM HOME? CLICK HERE FOR THE STEP-BY-STEP PLAN!
Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom®

Saving Families Money Since 2007

2hr Cleaning Checklist

2hr Cleaning checklist printable.

2hr Cleaning Checklist

Classic View
Grid View
Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 18, 2015 comment

Reader Tip: Why It Never Hurts to Ask

Read More

Reader Tip: Why It Never Hurts to Ask

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

asking

Sara emailed in the following tip:

My husband has been using the same deodorant for years, so when we find a good deal, we stock up!

He recently opened a package of deodorant that I had purchased months ago, and to his dismay, the formula had changed. The cap was a different color, but other than that, there was nothing to signal us that something was different.

Unfortunately, the new formula wasn’t as effective, and the scent was nowhere near as pleasant.

I didn’t think I’d have much luck, but I reached out to the manufacturer to see if the old formula was still available. I was informed that it was entirely discontinued.

But, instead of just being shrugged off by an enormous manufacturer (whose name is not synonymous with “customer service”), I was offered a complete refund for my entire stock-up purchase, no questions asked.

In the past, I probably would have thrown them right in the trash, but thanks to one quick email, we received our full purchase price back. I am donating the unopened containers to those less fortunate, and am now on a quest to find a new formula for my husband. 🙂

It just goes to show that it never hurts to ask! 

photo source

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 18, 2015 comment

Brigette’s $52 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Read More

Brigette’s $52 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan for 6

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

After a nice long summer break, full of all kinds of traveling and family time, I am loving being back into a (slightly) more organized routine – which includes sticking with some sort of grocery budget and menu plan! I have made a few bulk produce purchases recently (like 30 lbs. of organic apples), so I didn’t buy as much fresh produce this week as I normally do. We are also headed to Branson, MO for a few days, so we won’t be eating as many meals at home.

Aldi

1 48-oz pkg Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – $6.69

1 2-lb pkg Frozen Salmon Fillets – $7.49

2 bunches Bananas (3.99lbs @$0.38/lb) – $1.52, plus receive $0.25 back from Checkout 51 – $1.27 after rebate

1 box Rice Squares – $2.29

1 box Honey Wheat Puffs – $1.79

1 box Crisp Rice – $1.79

1 2-lb bag Red Grapes – $2.38

2 16-oz bags Baby Carrots – $1.38

1 16-oz bag Organic Carrots – $1.49

4 cans Green Beans – $1.96

4 bags Rice Cakes – $5.16

1 dozen Eggs – $2.69

2 16-oz cartons Egg Whites – $5.18

Total: $41.56 after rebate

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Harris Teeter

3 Larabars – $3.00, used $0.75/3 printable (doubled), plus $0.75/3 Harris Teeter evic, plus receive $0.75 back from SavingStar – Free after coupons and rebates

2 Betty Crocker Fruit Gushers – $3.00, used $0.50/2 printable (doubled), plus $0.50/2 Harris Teeter evic, plus receive $0.50 back from SavingStar – $1.00/2 after coupons

8 cans Chicken of the Sea Tuna – $4.00

2 pkgs Barilla Pronto Pasta – $3.00, used 2 $0.70/1 printable (doubled) – $0.20/2 after coupons

2 12-pk bottles Deer Park Spring Water – $3.34 (used a raincheck from several weeks ago) – used 2 $0.75/1 insert coupons (I think these were regional) (doubled) – $0.34/2 after coupons

1 box Horizon Macaroni and Cheese – $1.00, used $0.55/1 Harris Teeter catalina coupon – Free after coupon

2 16-oz containers Friendship Cottage Cheese – $4.00, used 2 $0.70/1 printable (doubled) – $1.20/2 after coupons

1 dozen Egglands Best Large Eggs – $2.99, used $0.50/1 Eggland’s Best Eggs, exp. 12/13/15 (SS 09/13/15 #2)(doubled) – $1.99 after coupon

2 8-oz pkgs Sargento Shredded Cheese – $3.65, used $0.50/2 Sargento Shredded Natural Cheese, exp. 10/4/15 (SS 08/30/15) [5-oz.+](doubled) – $2.65/2 after coupon

Total: 11.38

Weekly Total: $52.94

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Cereal x 3, Smoothies (using frozen fruit from the freezer) and Toast, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal x 2, Cinnamon Rolls and Scrambled Eggs (birthday breakfast)

Lunches

Baked Potatoes with Cottage Cheese, Apples, Carrots

Macaroni and Cheese, Grapes, Carrots

Leftovers x 2

(Since we are out-of-town some this week, I am not planning as many lunches/dinners. I *may* get super ambitious and pack food for the road…but realistically, probably not. ;))

Dinners

Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup, Easy Whole Wheat Bread

Grilled Salmon, Grilled Potatoes and Vegetables, Easy Whole Wheat Bread

Papa John’s Pizza, Breadsticks, Birthday Cake (birthday dinner)

Leftovers

Snacks

Chewy No-Bake Granola Bars, Dried Apples (I dehydrated a bunch of apples a couple of weeks ago, and we’ve all been enjoying them!), Popcorn, Fruit

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 18, 2015 comment

A few words on trolls, negative comments, and cyber-bullying

Read More

A few words on trolls, negative comments, and cyber-bullying

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

I live in a different part of the country that speaks a different language. I’ve been wanting to start a YouTube channel in that language, but something is holding me back. I am afraid to show my face to the world, because I am not sure how I will handle criticisms. I am an introvert, and I’m not sure it’s worth putting myself out there.

How do you manage to be a public figure, yet not let the mean comments and the cyber bullying get to you? Since you are an introvert, what suggestions would you give to fellow introverts who are trying to put themselves out there on the Internet? -Uma

Hi, Uma!

This is such a great question, and it’s an issue I have been dealing with quite a bit recently since starting my Periscope videos on a regular basis. The trolls on Periscope are frequent. They come on almost daily and call me names or make trouble.

Most of the time, the names they’ll call me or the things they’ll say are things I’ve heard before — maybe in a comment that I deleted on Facebook or an email someone sent in — but not usually things that are being said out there in public display for everyone to see.

I can block the trolls on Periscope, yes, and I do. But not until after they’ve already said something that was inappropriate or uncalled for.

Trolls and Cyber-bullying

The truth is, whether it’s YouTube, Periscope, blogging, or something entirely different, there will always be someone who says something that can prevent you from succeeding or discourage you. This is a hurdle to be expected when pursuing any goal in life and really anything worth doing.

It’s so important to not let the trolls and bullies and critics of this life hold you back from the goals you have — whether it’s blogging, a business endeavor, or a personal goal.

When you let them hold you back, you are choosing to give them power over you. There will be moments when people’s comments sting or hurt, but you have to learn how to not let them crush or defeat you.

When the trolls show up in your life, you can decide to listen to them or you can decide to tune them out and keep pressing on. It’s YOUR choice.

No matter where you are in life or what you do, you will have instances when you want to just run away due to fear. If you stand strong and withstand the criticisms or the cruel comments, you will reap the rewards. You will also encourage other people to be courageous, as well.

Cyber-bullying

So my advice is simple: Ignore the trolls. As I heard Dave Ramsey say one time, “I am not responsible to someone I don’t have a relationship with.”

Personally Speaking…

I disappoint people every day. That’s part of this blogging thing. When you put yourself out there online, people are going to tell you things about how you’re falling short, how they don’t like this or that, that you’re an idiot, or that you just plain should quit blogging or scoping.

In almost every one of these cases, when I’ve been told things like this, they’ve been drive-by comments from people who don’t know me or my family. These weren’t comments from people who had spent time investing in my life and building a relationship.

I have people in my life who have built into my life, who are my mentors, and who have earned the right to be truth-tellers in my life. These are people who love me enough to say hard words to me when I need to hear them and who want me to be the best version of myself that I can be.

I respect and listen to these people — even when I don’t necessarily want to! — because I know they have my best interests in mind. They aren’t random strangers on the internet who have never met me in real-life. They’ve spent weeks, months, and years of their lives walking beside me and getting to know our family.

In my view, it’s okay to disappoint random strangers on the internet who haven’t invested in you or built a relationship with you. Just tune out their disapproval and criticism, because no matter how hard you try, you’re never going to be able to please them all.

I want you to be courageous. I want you to jump out and FLY! Don’t let trolls and anonymous comments on the internet dictate your behavior or hold you back from experiencing amazing things.

Don’t let trolls hold you back from what you have to give to the world. The world needs your gifts, your talents, your story. The world needs YOU.

What advice and suggestions do the rest of you have for Uma? I’d love to hear your thoughts and input!

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 18, 2015 comment

Simply Tuesday: Community, competition, and cheerleading

Read More

Simply Tuesday: Community, competition, and cheerleading

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Simply Tuesday

So, I’m a bit behind on my Simply Tuesday posts. Here are a few of my thoughts on Section 3 (chapters 7, 8, & 9):

Emily writes about competition: “The thing about competition is that there is no time to connect with your competitors. You don’t face them; you try to beat them. You’re happiest when your back is to them because that means you’re winning.”

Ouch! I’ve struggled with this before and I think maybe some of you will be able to relate to this very honest video from one of my Periscopes this week where I talk about friendship and community and how I’ve struggled with comparison and jealousy at times. Watch it here.

Let’s be a community of women who are FOR others, who celebrate others, who cheerlead others!

I also loved this quote: “The truth is, people need our with-ness. They don’t need for us to impress them with how spiritual we are. They need to know they aren’t alone.”

Many times, the greatest gift we can give someone else is just the ministry of our presence.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this and on how we, as women, can better foster community and relationships that are free from competition. How do you do this in your own life?

Later today, I’ll be sharing about what learned from Section 4 (chapters 10, 11, and 12) of Simply Tuesday.

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

Click here to sign up!
Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 16, 2015 comment

How one simple email turned around my entire day

Read More

How one simple email turned around my entire day

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

How 1 Simple Email Turned Around My Entire Day

Last Monday, I was having a really difficult day. I had a bad attitude. I was tired. And I simply did not want to do Monday.

Instead, I wished that I could have three more restful Sundays. Anyone else ever felt like that??

But I couldn’t have three more Sundays, so instead, I had to dive into work — whether I wanted to or not. I had a long list of business to-do’s to complete early on in the day and a lot of projects that needed to be taken care of as soon as possible.

My attitude spilled out into emails I was sending about these projects. I wasn’t rude, but I certainly wasn’t being warm and gracious. Instead, I was businesslike and straightforward in my emails. No, “Thank you so much!” closings or kind words sprinkled throughout the emails, like would be my usual way of writing.

The Email That Made All the Difference

I didn’t even realize I was doing this. But one woman whom I was emailing about some of the pressing projects did.

And she emailed me and said something to the effect of: “Are you okay? Because it doesn’t seem like you’re okay. You just don’t quite seem like yourself today.”

I Needed An Attitude Adjustment

That email stopped me in my tracks and made me realize that I needed an attitude adjustment. When I took a moment to think about her questions, I realized she was right.

I wasn’t doing well, I wasn’t having a good attitude, and I hadn’t started my day well. I had charged right into my day, and I hadn’t taken the time to prepare myself — spiritually, mentally, emotionally, or even just practically.

After receiving the e-mail, I read it to Jesse and we talked about it. He helped me to step back and feel less overwhelmed by the to-do’s and then he suggested some things I could delete off my list and some other things I could delegate so that the day didn’t feel so daunting anymore.

Within just an hour of getting that simple email, I felt completely different. I was calm and cheerful instead of stressed and frazzled.

That one simple email where someone took the time to ask if I was okay completely changed my day. Because someone took the time to care, notice, and ask what was wrong, it made me step back and examine what was really going on inside my own head and heart. And it motivated me to stop rushing ahead while feeling frazzled.

How One Simple Email Turned Around My Entire Day

That email reminded me that I need to be more observant of other people’s lives and feelings, too. I need to ask more often, “Are you doing okay?” when I feel like someone isn’t acting like themselves.

Today, take time to ask how someone really is. Take time to smile. Take time to speak a kind word. Take time to look into someone’s eyes and listen — really listen — to what they are saying.

Write that note, send that text, make that phone call, invite that person over, or do that little extra something to let someone know that you care and that they matter.

We can’t do everything, but we can do something.

We can’t help everyone, but we can help someone.

We can’t change the entire world, but we can make a difference in one life.

You never know what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes. You don’t know the heavy burdens they are carrying that maybe they can’t even share. Take time to notice people today — to ask a question, or to say you will pray for someone. You never know what kind of huge difference it may make in a person’s day.

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 15, 2015 comment

3 Marks of a Healthy Financial Relationship

Read More

3 Marks of a Healthy Financial Relationship

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

3 Marks of a Healthy Financial Relationship

My husband and I are blessed to come from families where good financial principles were modeled. Unlike many of our friends, we went into marriage knowing that it was possible to have a healthy financial relationship.

We’ve now been married for 12 1/2 years (can you believe it?!) and we’ve grown and struggled and learned a lot through those years. Today, I wanted to share three marks we’ve learned that signify a healthy financial relationship:

1. You’re on the Same Team

To win in life and in finances, you’ve got to be on the same team. This means that you leave the me versus you at the door.

Drop the phrases “his money” and “her money” and replace it with “our money.” Because if you’re going to be a team, you need to join hands — and assets.

Three Marks of a Healthy Financial Relationship

2. You’re on the Same Page

Once you are willing to be on the same team, it allows you to be in a place to get on the same page financially. There’s so much momentum and excitement that comes from working on your finances together.

This requires mutual trust and open communication. It’s a heart that says, “We are in this together — sink or swim. We are FOR each other and we are working on the same goals together.”

In order to work on the same goals together, you have to openly discuss your finances. This means talking about everything regarding finances — not just the fun stuff but also the nitty-gritty hard stuff, like where your financial pitfalls are and what parts of your budget are coming up short.

3 Marks of a Healthy Financial Relationship

3. You’re Willing to Compromise

If you want to stay on the same team and the same page, compromise is essential. You aren’t always going to agree all the time. In fact, you are more likely to disagree much of the time.

This is why you need to be willing to compromise. A strong and healthy relationship requires give and take, with both parties being willing to give up what you want for the other’s good.

 

What do YOU think are some marks of a healthy financial relationship?

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 15, 2015 comment

Simply Tuesday: On Doing Less & Sleeping More

Read More

Simply Tuesday: On Doing Less & Sleeping More

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Simply Tuesday: Day 2

Reading Simply Tuesday while waiting at the DMV for a very long time today.

Section two of Simply Tuesday was so, so good. Words that my soul needed to hear and be reminded of.

I had trouble narrowing things down to just a handful of quotes to share.

“Effort toward excellence in my work can silently morph into effort toward perfection in my soul.”

That packs a punch! Striving for excellence is good, but if I start striving for perfectionism, praise, and to please people, I have missed the mark.

Here was another powerful quote: “When I’m performing for my own acceptance, burnout is always the result.”

If you’re feeling worn down and worn out, take a step back and examine if any of the exhaustion is a result of trying to earn someone else’s acceptance. Are you only saying “yes” to that opportunity because you want someone to like you? Are you only volunteering or sending that email or showing up for that event just so someone else will be impressed with you?

Simply Tuesday

This is something I’m really working on in my own life. I want people to like me. I want people to think highly of me. And I don’t want to disappoint people.

But I just can’t do it all. I can’t even come close.

I’m really working on focusing on being wise, not awesome. For me, this means that I’m slowing down, streamlining, and stepping back. I’m doing less and resting more. I’m accomplishing less and sleeping more.

It feels less productive, but it’s restorative… and that’s what my soul and body need right now.

Simply Tuesday

Two more quotes from this section I especially loved:

  • “In my own life, I recognize my tendency to look over at the work of others rather than down at the work in front of me.”
  • “The best way to sabotage my own success is to be obsessed with someone else’s.”

Did you read the second section of Simply Tuesday? If so, I’d love to hear what sections impacted you or challenged you. Tomorrow, we’ll read section 3 (pages 117-157).

Shared Sep 15, 2015 comment

The Ultimate List of 50+ Boredom Busters with 8 Household Items

Read More

The Ultimate List of 50+ Boredom Busters with 8 Household Items

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

boredom-busters-copy

Sara in Shanghai has put together the ultimate list of 50+ boredom busters with 8 household items. As long as you have her list of 8 essential items in stock, you’ll be ready to combat your children’s boredom with these fun ideas.

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

Click here to download!
Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 14, 2015 comment

So, I totally meant to tell you about this earlier…

Read More

So, I totally meant to tell you about this earlier…

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

UPDATE: The Sale Page for this was down for close to an hour last night for many people — myself included — so they’ve extended the sale through noon today for those who tried to buy last night and couldn’t get it to work.

So, the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle sale ends TONIGHT and I feel badly that I flaked on you all. Okay, well, I did mention it a few times this past week, but not at all like I’d planned to…

Instead, I spent the last few weeks dealing with a cancer scare, prepping for surgery, and recovering from surgery. And all my great intentions went out the window.

I’m Giving This My Best Shot — While I Still Have a Chance!

While I didn’t get a chance to invest all of the time into reviewing the products and writing those posts, I did spend the last day really going over all of the material in-depth and I just have to write this post. Because the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle offer is only good through midnight tonight (September 14, 2015).

After tonight, it’s gone and you won’t be able to order it. If you wake up tomorrow morning and try to order it, your chance is over.

So even though almost none of my great intentions panned out, since I have the energy today to finally put into writing a lengthy post about it, I’m going to give it what I’ve got!

Will You Promise Me This, Though?

I believe strongly in the value of this bundle. And I’m going to pull out all the stops in this post to show you why I think it’s such an amazing value. But I need you to do something for me.

You see, I am here to help you spend your money in the wisest manner possible. I turn down many opportunities on a daily basis to promote things because I only want to promote the best of the best here.

So here’s what I need you to do: If you are not in a financial place to purchase the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle, will you do me a huge favor and just skip this post? The last thing I want to do is to encourage you to buy something that you can’t afford.

Why I’m Endorsing the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle

For the rest of you, though, I want you to carefully consider whether purchasing the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle is a good deal for you. And I want to share a few compelling reasons why I can rubber-stamp this deal and stand behind it:

1. It Will Give You Step-by-Step Help to Transform Your Family’s Health

Do you want to help your family eat better and feel better but you’re just overwhelmed by all of the information out there? The Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle comes with hands-on help ebooks like the Detox Your Home Handbook, Three Weeks to Vitality, Eating for Energy, and Your Grace-Filled Journey to Real Foods.

Value: These 4 resources mentioned are worth more separately than you’ll pay for the entire bundle. And the money you could potentially save on doctor’s visits and medication could be substantial. But not only that, think of the gift you’ll be giving your family by helping them live healthier lives!


2. It Will Clear Up Your Confusion Over Essential Oils

There are a lot of confusing and conflicting viewpoints about essential oils out there with different people telling you different brands are superior to others or the only safe ones to use. Going through the Essential Oils for Families course will educate you on why essential oils work and how to use them. Best of all, the course is done from a completely non-biased perspective when it comes to essential oil brands.

Value: The Essential Oils course is a value of $135! And you get it + all of the other resources in this bundle for just $29.97! That’s definitely what I call a deal!

Peace Treaty3. It Will Help You Sleep Better

Okay, so I can’t completely guarantee this one, but it’s been true for me! One of the bonuses you get with the purchase of the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle is a choice of a free 2-oz liquid herbal formula from Trilight Health. I’ve ordered the Peace Treaty as a bonus with a previous bundle and I have quickly decided this stuff really, really works. In fact, if you need to get up really early for some reason, don’t take it before bed, because it truly knocks you out.

I experimented with taking it and can tell a significant difference in how well and how deeply I sleep when I take it as compared to when I don’t. Your results may differ from mine, but for me, I think this stuff rocks!

Value: You do have to pay shipping — which is around $3-5 per order — but getting a bottle of this herbal formula for just a few dollar was very worth it to me. I likely would have never tried it and discovered how well it worked had it not come as a bonus with the bundle!

 

4. It Will Inspire You to Lose Weight & Stick With Your Fitness Goals

Do you wish you could find a way to stick with exercise goals and actually lose those persistent pounds? There are 13 different fitness and weight loss products included in this bundle — close to a total of a $400 value!

The Fit2B course in this bundle might be a great help to you! It contains 5 lessons with 5 videos outlining 5 days of different routines containing 5 exercises done 5 times for 5 sets! And best of all, you can do these lessons in 10-15 minutes!

The 7-Day Diet Plan will teach you how to drop a dress size while enjoying filling, delicious green smoothies.

The Thrive 90 course is a step-by-step program in the comfort of your own home for only 15-30 minutes per day and immediately start to enjoy renewed energy, watch stubborn flab melt away, develop lean, toned muscle, and more.

Plus, you’ll get access to the Mash Up 45-Day Challenge Digital Bundle — 21 Mind/Body, Agility & Strength, and High-Intensity Interval workouts you can add to your exercise routine.

Love-Your-Body

And I think that the book, Love Your Body, looks especially worth reading and it’s one I can’t wait to dive into.

Value: These resources are regularly priced at more than the cost of the entire bundle! Plus, you won’t have to pay for a gym membership or any fancy workout equipment.

5. It Will Save You Money on Gifts For Others

One of my very favorite things about the Healthy Living Bundle is that you are allowed to gift any resources or bonuses you don’t plan on using or reading. Yes, you read that right! So if you only are interested in 10 of the ebooks, 2 of the courses, and 2 of the bonuses, you can give all the others away!

You could use these as gifts for a friend’s birthday or an upcoming special occasion. You could split them up as gifts for multiple friends. Or, you could just share them as a way to bless someone who is interested in healthy living.

Last Chance to Get the Healthy Living Bundle!

The bonuses would especially make great gifts! The Lexie Naturals Gift Set would make a really fun and unique gift for a friend who loves all-natural things. Shipping is only a few dollars and it’s well worth it for these high-quality products!

Value: If you used three of the bonuses/ebooks as gifts for friends for upcoming occasions, that could pay for the cost of the bundle itself — because you wouldn’t need to spend any money on gifts for those three occasions!

6. It Will Give You New Recipes for Special Diets & Allergies in Your Family

If you have a child or another family member who is gluten-free, diary-free, Paleo, or diabetic, this bundle is a goldmine of great resources and help! If you need recipes, encouragement, or inspiration for how to cook, bake, freezer cook, and menu plan when you have allergies, you’ll find a plethora of help in the ebooks like: Beyond the Cereal Box: Gluten-Free and Family-Friendly Recipes for Breakfast, The Grain-Free Lunchbox, The Grain-Free Snacker, Go Grain-Free e-Course ($199 value!), and more!

Value: Not only will you no longer have to scratch your head and throw up your hands in despair wondering what you’re going to cook or bake, but you’ll no longer feel so alone. These ebooks will come alongside you and help you to feel like you can do this! You can find recipes to cook and meals to make — even with strict diet restrictions!

Last Chance to Get the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle!

7. It Will Help You Plan Healthier Menus for Your Family

Do you struggle to stick with meal-planning and wish someone could help you get a better handle on it?

The Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle comes with some fantastic menu-planning resources including an ebook I have especially loved for a long time — Plan It, Don’t Panic. Plus, you’ll get access to the Tired & Hungry Cook’s Companion which gives you two free months to a comprehensive meal plan, including 65+ meals each month!

You also get a $32 credit to Once a Month Meals — a site that offers everything you need to plan your freezer cooking and once a month cooking sessions! They offer done-for-you menus, shopping lists, instructions, and more in the following categories: Paleo, Traditional, Whole Foods, Gluten/Dairy Free, Baby Food, Vegetarian, Diet, and others.

Value: If you end up eating at home instead of eating out one or two nights as a result of the menu-planning helps offered in the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle, this bundle will have paid for itself and then some!

 

Last chance to get the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle!

8. You’ll Get 3 Bottles of Essential Oils for Just $6.95 Shipped!

Have you had your eye on essential oils for awhile and weren’t sure what to order first? Well, help is on the way!

When you purchase the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle, one of the free bonuses you’ll get is 3 bottles of Essential Oils from Plant Therapy, one of my favorite essential oil companies. You’ll just pay $6.95 shipping — which is a steal of a deal!

9. It Is a Risk-Free Purchase With a Money-Back Guarantee!

If you are still sitting on the fence right now wondering whether or not you should take the plunge and buy the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle, here’s why you should: it’s a risk-free purchase.

That’s right! There’s a 100% money-back guarantee on it for up 30 days! So if you purchase it and then decide it’s not as helpful as you’d hoped or that it’s not worth the price you paid, you can get a full refund — no questions asked.

So what are you waiting for? Click below to purchase your Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle while there’s still time!


P.S. Remember, this offer ends tonight — September 14, 2014 — at midnight! Get it while you can!

(Note: The link in this post is my referral link. Read my disclosure policy here.)

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 14, 2015 comment

Simply Tuesday Review (Part 1)

Read More

Simply Tuesday Review (Part 1)

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Simply Tuesday Review

After reading the first section of Simply Tuesday (pages 1-67), I feel like my soul just took a big gulp of fresh air.

Life has been full recently. Maybe more than full? Crammed might be a better word.

I didn’t realize how out-of-breath my soul felt. Squeezed. Pressed. Bordering on hyperventilating.

So I savored that fresh air. And I savored the words that spoke life into my heart and soul.

The words that challenged me to slow down. To embrace small. To let go of hurry.

I read a section on my Morning Motivation Show this morning that really challenged me. You can watch it here.

Of that entire section, this line was probably my favorite: “If the light of a Tuesday morning candle isn’t bright enough to light the room, a spotlight won’t be either.”

We tend to think the spotlight is where it’s at. That spotlights equal success.

But success comes in many shapes and forms. It might be serving your neighbor. Or putting a healthy meal on the table. Or rocking your baby. Or reading to a child. Or helping a co-worker. Or working in the garden. Or writing that blog post.

“When I want to climb the ladder, what if instead, I tore the ladder apart and used the wood to build a bench?“

Don’t chase after the spotlights and the success ladders. Invest in the work right in front of you. Invest in the people right next to you — in your home, in your child’s class, at your community center, at your church, at the office, on your block.

“But people don’t need fancy and flashy, they probably just want regular. They don’t need a fixer, they need a journeyer. They just need to sit on a bench with someone else so they know they’re not alone. I know this, because it’s what I need, too.”

This challenged me. Because I tend to want to be a fixer. I’m a person who loves to practically help. I like to trouble-shoot and problem-solve. But I’m learning that often people don’t need solutions; they just need a listening ear.

“What if we stopped asking God for big ways to serve Him and started walking with our friend Jesus into the next simple moment in front of us.”

Did you read the first section of Simply Tuesday? If so, I’d love to hear what sections impacted you or challenged you. Tomorrow, we’ll read section 2 (pages 67-116).

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 14, 2015 comment

My 6 Goals For This Week

Read More

My 6 Goals For This Week

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

My 6 Goals For This Week

So, as I shared about in my Morning Motivation Show this morning, last week was a hard week for me. But it was also a good week because I learned more about giving myself grace and not listening to the inner critic.

I’m feeling a lot better this week, but I’m intentionally deciding to continue to take it slow and get plenty of rest.

Last week’s goals:

Marriage/Mothering/Homemaking Goals

1. Finish reading one read aloud book with the kids.

2. Write a love note to Jesse.

3. Have an at-home Movie Date with Jesse.

Personal Goals

4. Get at least 7+ hours of sleep every night.

5. Finish reading one fiction book.

6. Do the 5-Day Homemaking Challenge.

This week’s goals:

Marriage/Mothering/Homemaking Goals

1. Write a love note to Jesse.

2. Have an at-home Movie Date with Jesse.

Personal Goals

3. Get at least 7.5+ hours of sleep every night.

4. Read and blog through Simply Tuesday.

Business Goals

5. Finish special downloads for my book launch.

6. Speak at MomCon (are you going to be there! If so, I’d LOVE to meet you at one of my two sessions!)

How did you do on last week’s goals? What are your goals for this week? I’d love to have you share your progress on last week’s goals and your goals for this coming week in the comments. Of, if you’ve blogged about it, leave your direct link below. Let’s cheer each other on to live purposeful and productive lives! You can download a free customizable weekly goal-planning sheet here.

 

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 14, 2015 comment

12 Reasons You’re Spending More Than You Should

Read More

12 Reasons You’re Spending More Than You Should

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

spending more

Guest post from Jennifer of The Intentional Mom

If we are not careful, the money we earn can slip right through our fingers. Hidden fees, a lack of planning, or even failing to do our homework before purchasing something, in addition to many other things can be to blame.

If you are looking to keep more of your hard earned cash in your pocket, examine this list closely to see where your money could be going on a regular basis:

1. Using an ATM machine.

Using an ATM machine is a painless, often thoughtless, and an oh-so-convenient way to get access to our money at all hours of the day or night. This is rarely a good thing.

2. Not having (or not following) a budget.

When it comes to where your money is going, ignorance is not bliss.

3. Having no one to be accountable to.

If you don’t need to answer to anyone about the money you spend, it is much easier to spend it. Make your money more difficult to spend by asking someone to be your financial accountability partner.

4. Using a debit card to get cash back.

Much like using the ATM machine, getting cash back when using your debit card is a silent budget killer. This is especially tempting because we are usually asked in person and on the card machine itself. The power of suggestion in this case is quite powerful.

5. Paying fees.

This can be anything from late fees, to convenience fees, to choosing to be billed monthly rather than quarterly or yearly. Pay attention to what fees you are paying for what, and then eliminate whatever you can.

6. Burying your head in the sand.

Knowing you need to live more frugally but choosing not to pay attention to this concept as though this is not a reality will get you nowhere fast.

7. Not taking advantage of money-saving tools or programs that pay you for doing something.

Cash back apps, money offered by your employer for a 401K match, or having a loyalty card to various stores all qualify here.

8. Not asking for discounts or better prices.

This applies to everything you actually purchase to discounts offered by your doctor’s office. Asking for these things in everything you do could save you some serious dough.

9. Failing to look at your statements.

Bank statements, credit card statements, billing statements, pay statements, and everything in between. Read every single one of them every single time.

10. Paying for things you’re not using or don’t need.

Running your sprinklers in the rain, magazine subscriptions you don’t read, and keeping your heating and cooling set higher or lower than you really need it are just a few examples. Only pay for what you truly are using or need.

11. Failing to plan ahead.

This can be unexpected things or even the expected things that we just choose to pretend aren’t really happening.

12. Not doing your homework.

Even if you don’t buy on Amazon, it is a great place to read reviews on things BEFORE you buy them.

There are so many places that our money has to go, which is why it is so important to be aware of how we can lose it without even knowing it. Check this list to see why you may have less money in your pocket.

Jennifer is a busy homeschooling mom of seven who enjoys keeping a home, living an active lifestyle, and loving the little and not so little people in her life. Her mission is helping other moms find contentment in living intentionally every day. Check out her blog, The Intentional Mom.

photo source

Money Saving Mom
Shared Sep 13, 2015 comment

Enter to win a Vitamix + a $500 Amazon gift card!!

Read More

Enter to win a Vitamix + a $500 Amazon gift card!!

Published: by on   |  This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Win-a-Vitamix-Pin
Who wants to win a Vitamix and a $500 Amazon gift card?!?!

I love my Vitamix and we use it almost daily — to make smoothies, frappes, iced coffee, sauces, and much more. It’s a great appliance to have in your kitchen to aid you in preparing yummy and healthful recipes.

And who wouldn’t want to win a $500 Amazon gift card? You can use it to by groceries, household items, Christmas gifts, books, or even a large ticket item.

I’m giving away a Vitamix AND a $500 Amazon gift card to one reader this weekend who helps me spread the word about the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle.

(Psst! Have you gotten your Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Go read all about this special offer here — it’s only available through Monday!)

Enter to Win a FREE Vitamix + a $500 Amazon Gift Card

It’s really simple to enter to win and will take you just a minute or two to do so…

Step 1: Choose one or more options to complete below. The more options you choose, the more entries you’ll receive!

Option #1: Post on Facebook.

Post on Facebook. Click here to share this post on Facebook on Why I Quit Trim Healthy Mama.

Option #2: Post on Pinterest.

Post on Pinterest. Click here to repin this pin on essential oils & the Healthy Living Bundle on Pinterest.

Option #3: Post on Twitter.

Post about the Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle on Twitter. Click here to retweet this tweet on Twitter.

Option #4: Leave a comment.

Leave a comment on this post letting me know whether you’d prefer to win a Vitamix or the $500 Amazon gift card.

Step 2: Leave a comment on this post letting me know which options you completed to confirm your entry to win a Vitamix and a $500 Amazon Gift Card! Leave one comment per option, up to 4 separate comments.

The winner of the Vitamix is Amy (amy.j.sexton@). The winner of the Amazon gift card is Laura (montana.jayhawk@). You should have both received emails with details on claiming your prize.

Win-a-Vitamix-FB