Money Saving Mom®

Classic View

Grid View

Shared Jun 13, 2015 comment

5 Things I’m Loving This Week

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 13, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

It was another full week, but such a good week! Here are 5 things I’m loving this week:

1. Getting To Meet My Readers & Hear Their Stories

I spoke at a homeschool conference in Virginia yesterday and was so, so blessed to get to meet so many wonderful readers! Thank you to those of you who came to my sessions and came up to meet me afterward. Your kind comments and words of encouragement truly uplifted me.

The woman on the left in the picture above came up to me with tears in her eyes and told me that she’d met me at a conference a few years ago, bought my book, and 4 days later, their house burned to the ground. The only books that survived the fire? Their wedding album and my book! She wanted me to sign the somewhat charred copy… How cool is that?

The little girl on the right was utterly precious and came up to me after a talk (where I shared about teaching our kids to be givers) and said she was going to give all the money in her piggy bank away to people who need it!

Both of these stories were incredibly touching to me! Being away from my family at least a few days each month for speaking is always hard, but it’s oh so worth it for the chance to get to meet amazing readers and hear their stories!

2. Comfy Pants

I flew home from Virginia this morning and the above picture is what my afternoon looked like. The first thing I did after hugs and kisses? Change into my comfy pants. I would likely live in these all the time if I could! 🙂

3. Baked Oatmeal

Jesse made Baked Oatmeal while I was gone and brought me a bowl of it warmed up and topped with berries and whipped. Pure deliciousness! That man knows how to woo his woman!

{No, my suitcase was not unpacked yet in the picture above… Curling up with a good book took precedence this afternoon.}

4. Heart-to-Heart Talks With Our Kids

Recently, we’ve been having such good conversations with our kids. Oftentimes, they are the result of hard issues and situations — all part of the growing up process.

I’m grateful to have the opportunity to teach, nurture, train, and pour into them. To have these heart-to-heart talks and discussions. Being a part is a big job and sometimes it feels exhausting and overwhelming, but when you get to have deep and meaningful conversations and see your kids soak it up, it makes all the effort worth it.

5. Friends Who Allow Me to Be 100% Honest

This week, I had a conversation with a good friend that was really hard. I’d honestly been dreading it for days. I knew I needed to address a situation and bring up a tough subject and I was almost sick to my stomach about it (I avoid confrontation if at all possible!)

I’m so humbly grateful that this friend received my words with grace, listened and accepted the honesty and heard my heart behind it. And it opened up the door for a restored relationship as well as a deepening of our honesty in our friendship.

What about YOU? What 5 things are YOU loving this week? Tell us in the comments.

Shared Jun 13, 2015 comment

Gretchen’s $60 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan

Published: by Gretchen on June 13, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Aldi

1 pkg Roma Tomatoes – $0.99

1 Cauliflower – $1.69

1 loaf Bread – $0.99

1 pkg Tortillas – $1.19

1 Half & Half – $1.89

1 dozen Eggs – $1.84

1 pkg Rice Cakes – $1.29

1 canister Raisins – $2.89

3 cans Green Beans – $0.48 each

Total with tax ($1.02): $15.23

Homeland

1 Old Orchard Juice – $1.35, used $0.50/1 printable (doubled) – $0.35 after coupon

1 pkg Blue Bunny Ice Cream Bars – $2.85 – used $1/1 printable (doubled) – $0.85 after coupon

2 Hershey’s Chocolate Caramels – $2.09, used $1/1 coupon from the 5/31 SmartSource insert (doubled) and $1/1 printable (doubled) – $0.09 each after coupons

1 pkg Baby Carrots – $0.89

1 Dannon Activia Yogurt – $1.59, used $1/1 printable (doubled) – Free after coupon

1 Suave Bodywash – $1.50, used $0.50/1 printable (doubled) – $0.50 after coupon

1 Old El Paso Refried Beans – $1.79, used $0.50/1 printable (doubled) – $0.79 after coupon

2 Hormel Bacon – $2.49 each, used 2 $1/1 printable (first one doubled) – $0.99 each after coupons

Total with tax ($1.03): $6.19

Dillons

1 gallon Milk – $2.50, used $0.20 Ibotta rebate – $2.30 after rebate

1.41 lbs Organic Broccoli – $2.66

1 Lettuce – $0.99

1 Kroger Mouthwash – $1.59, used Free coupon that was mailed to me – Free after coupon

2 pkg Tyson Chicken Drumsticks – Marked down to $2.38 and $2.40

2 KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce – $1.25 each, used $1/2 coupon from the 5/17 SmartSource insert – $0.75 each after coupon

2.11 lbs Bananas – $1.24, used $0.20 Ibotta rebate – $1.04 after rebate

2 pkg Strawberries – $1.25 each

1 pkg Raspberries – $1.25

1 pkg Kroger American Cheese – $1

2 Larabars – $1 each, used 2 $0.40/1 printable – $0.60 each after coupons

8 Clif Bars – Marked down to $0.25 each, used 2 $1/4 coupon from Mambo Sprouts Spring Savings booklet – Free after coupons

Items a part of the Mega Sale (Buy 5, Save $5):

2 Clorox Bleach Toilet Cleaner – $0.99, used $1/2 printable AND $0.50 Checkout 51 rebate – $0.24 each after coupon and rebate

3 Oxiclean Laundry Detergent – $3.99, used 3 $3/1 printable – $0.99 each after coupons

2 U by Kotex – $1.99 each, used 2 $1/1 printable – $0.99 each after coupon (Plus received $2 catalina)

2 Edy’s Ice Cream – $2.49, used $1.50/2 coupon from the 5/17 SmartSource insert – $1.74 each after coupon

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

1 Kashi Cereal – $1.99, used $1/1 mailer coupon – $0.99 after coupon

2 Shout Stain Remover – $1.99 each, used 2 $1/1 printable – $0.99 each after coupon (Plus received $1 catalina and $1.50 catalina)

1 Gogurt Yogurt – $1.49

Total with tax ($4.42) after coupons and rebates: $38.99 (and received $4.50 in catalinas)

Total for all grocery items: $60.41

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfast

Cereal & Juice x 3

Toast & Eggs x 2

Oatmeal x 2

Lunches

Cheese, Crackers, Fruit, Veggies x 2

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Carrots

Tuna Sandwiches, Fruit

Macaroni & Cheese, Fruit Salad

Baked Potatoes with Steamed Broccoli

Leftovers

Dinners

Chicken Drumsticks, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Hamburgers, Corn

Chicken & Rice Casserole, Broccoli

Salad Bar, Homemade Bread

Venison Roast, Carrots, Potatoes

Leftovers

Out to eat

Shared Jun 13, 2015 comment

I’d love to meet you in Atlanta next Saturday!

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 13, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Our team is so excited to be putting on a special one-night Say Goodbye to Survival Mode event next Saturday (June 20, 2015), in Acworth, GA (near Atlanta)!

This evening will be encouraging, inspirational, and actionable. I’ll be sharing from my heart and giving you practical steps to take to:

Stop living life feeling stuck, exhausted, and overwhelmed
Determine your most important priorities & find time to invest in what really matters
Break free from the lie that whispers “I’m not good enough”
Move past loneliness and build authentic friendships with other women

If you could use a boost to live with more intention, joy, and purpose, you won’t want to miss this special one-night event!

Find out more information about this event and purchase tickets here. We have a discounted group rate for those who’d like to invite a group of women to come.

And if you’re planning to attend, be sure to RSVP on the Facebook Page here and then share the link with others you think would love to attend, as well.

P.S. Want to have us bring this one-night Say Goodbye to Survival Mode event to your church or women’s group in late 2015 or 2016? We’d love to chat with you about that! Just fill out this form here and we’ll be in touch with more information on dates we have available and how we can serve your church or women’s group.

Shared Jun 13, 2015 comment

How Budgeting Allowed Me to Say “Yes”

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 13, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Guest post from Leah

As a longtime reader of MoneySavingMom.com, I have learned the importance of wisely budgeting to mitigate emergencies. In fact we know that using money wisely can turn an emergency to an inconvenience.

What I didn’t realize is that sticking to a budget also allows me to take advantage of unexpected opportunities.

Earlier this year, the opportunity arose to take a trip to Greece, with a longtime mentor. Now I’d never been out of North America before, let alone to Europe; but I’ve been trying to say “yes” to life’s opportunities. So I considered.

Unfortunately, it was $2,000 for a 10-day trip!

Gulp. Big decision. To make it worse, I had only about two days to decide.

This was not something to be considered lightly, but after some deliberation and counsel, the answer was clear – YES. I said yes to Greece!

It may seem like an impulsive decision to spend $2,000 with only two days to think about it, but honestly, this decision is the fruit of years worth of budgeted living.

I would have never been able to say “yes” to this trip if I hadn’t:

Worked my way through college, staying debt-free
Paid for a used car with cash instead of purchasing new
Shopped almost exclusively at thrift stores for clothes
Minimized eating out expenses
Used the library for all book / entertainment needs
Made the commitment to save reasonably and always live beneath my means

Now I did sell some items on Amazon.com, and I also dedicated some money from my tax return to offset the cost of the trip, but I know that if it hadn’t been for many years of faithful budgeting, this decision never would have been possible.

Seven cities and two countries later, and I caught the travel bug. I can’t wait to go back!

So when you cancel that subscription, or pass by that department store in favor of the thrift store, or choose to purchase your furniture from Craigslist, or check that book out of the library instead of purchasing it new, or when you say “no” once again to something that others consider necessary, just remember that it is for a purpose.

We choose to live intentionally so that we can not only handle life’s catastrophes, but also so that we can live a full life on our OWN terms, not just surviving, but thriving. Taking advantage of every opportunity!

What have you said “yes” to because of budgeted living?

Leah is the oldest of four girls, works in the restaurant development world with a degree in Business Management, and enjoys exploring intentional living. This includes meaningful relationships, CrossFit, long-distance running, good books, and maybe the occasional piece of dark chocolate.

top photo credit

Shared Jun 13, 2015 comment

Brigette’s $66 Weekly Grocery Trip and Menu Plan for 6

Published: by Brigette on June 13, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Zaycon Update: I promised you last week that I would let you know what I thought of my Zaycon order, and I have to tell you – I am HOOKED! 🙂 The chicken is so much fresher and better-tasting than what we have gotten used to, and the whole ordering online/picking up experience was super easy, quick and painless (I didn’t even have to get out of my car!).

Obviously, the main attraction for me was the price – it’s hard to beat $1.69/lb for boneless, skinless chicken breasts! You do have to purchase 40lbs minimum, and since it is fresh, it needs to be packaged/frozen/taken care of pretty soon after you pick it up – so it does require a little bit of work. 🙂

If you have a pick-up location in your area, I would definitely recommend it. I know I plan on buying all my chicken this way from now on!

Aldi

1 16-oz pkg Baby Carrots – $0.99, plus receive $0.25 back from Checkout 51 – $0.74 after rebate

1 8-oz carton Heavy Whipping Cream – $1.89

1 24-oz container Cottage Cheese – $2.29

2 16-oz cartons Egg Whites – $3.98

1 2-lb bag Carrots – $1.19

1 bag Mini Sweet Peppers – $1.99

2 containers Baby Artisan Lettuce – $3.98

2 Avocados – $1.38

1 32-oz tub Nonfat Greek Yogurt – $3.69

1 5.75-oz jar Green Olives – $1.19

2 1-lb pkgs Ground Turkey – $3.88

1 1-lb bag Tilapia Filets – $3.39

1 jar Kosher Baby Dills – $1.29

1 24-oz pkg Vine Ripe Tomatoes – $1.29

2 cans Green Beans – $0.98

1 4-ct pkg Sweet Corn – $1.49

1 head Cabbage – $1.29

Total: $35.83

Harris Teeter

10 8-oz pkgs Shredded Cheese (B2G3) – $13.00

1 18-ct carton Extra-Large Eggs – $2.95 (YIKES! And this was the cheapest I could get them anywhere this week. Have your egg prices gone up as much as ours have? And does anyone know when the bird flu is going to be over?!)

2 16-oz pkgs Butterball Turkey Bacon – $5.58, used 2 $0.75/1 printable (doubled) – $2.58/2 after coupons

1 16-oz can Mama Francesca Parmesan Cheese (B1G1) – $2.15

2 16-oz pkgs Butterball Turkey Rope Sausage – $5.58, used 2 $0.75/1 printable (doubled) – $2.58/2 after coupons

1 16-oz can Old El Paso Refried Beans – $1.69, used $0.50/1 printable (doubled), plus $0.50/1 Harris Teeter evic, plus receive $0.50 back from SavingStar – $0.31 MM after coupons and rebate

1 gallon Milk – $2.99

Total after coupons and rebate: $26.93

Flower Foods Bakery

8 assorted pkgs of Bread, Buns, and Bagels, reduced – $4.00

Total: $4.00

Weekly Grocery Total: $66.76

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Oatmeal and Strawberries (from the freezer) x 2

Homemade Granola x 3

Yogurt (leftover from last week), Toast x 2

Lunches

(My goal for lunches this week is to finish up all the oranges and apples that we have accumulated in our fridge over the last few weeks! :))

Baked Potatoes with Cheese, Oranges, Mini Peppers x 2

Peanut Butter and Honey Sandwiches, Apples, Carrot Sticks x 2

Hard Boiled Eggs, Oranges, Toast

Leftovers x 2

Dinners

Pan Fried Tilapia, Oven Baked French Fries, Corn on the Cob, Tossed Salad

Grilled Hobo Packets, Oranges, Italian Cheese Bread

Homemade Cheese Pizza, Raw Veggie Plate with Ranch Dressing Dip

Sweet and Sour Chicken Over Rice, Cooked Carrots, Apple Slices

Spaghetti Carbonara, French Bread, Green Beans, Tossed Salad

Dinner Out with Friends

Leftovers

Snacks

Smoothies (using frozen fruit from the freezer and fresh oranges), Popcorn, Chewy No-Bake Granola Bars

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

Click here to sign up!

Shared Jun 12, 2015 comment

How I Saved Another $200+ By Cashing in on Manufacturer’s Warranties!

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 12, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

The following testimony is from Bethany:

Back in 2012, I shared how I saved $275 by digging out my tire receipt, to utilize the manufacturer’s warranty that had come with the tires, when they didn’t last as long as they should have. Today, I thought it was time to share how those manufacturer warranties (not extended or purchased) continue to help me save.

I had purchased a pair of dress shoes back in May of 2014, and as I walked into work 5 months after purchasing the shoes, I suddenly felt a bit unsteady. I lifted my foot and found the heel had started to separate from the shoe.

When I got home that night I sent an e-mail to the shoe company’s customer service group and they advised that I could ship the shoes back to them and they would send me a gift card for the current value of the shoe (I had lost my receipt). Within a couple weeks, I had a $40 gift card in my mail box to the store I had purchased the shoes from!

Worse than a broken heel though, is eggs stuck to my non-stick $52 & $108 sauté pans. I was so disappointed when my sauté pans stopped functioning as they should, and the coating on the $108 pan had started to chip.

We started to look at new pans one day, but then I remembered that these pans came with a lifetime guarantee. Again, a simple email to the customer service department, they validated my purchase (they were able to look it up by my name), I shipped the faulty pans back to them, and within a couple weeks I had a brand new product. $160 saved – thank you lifetime guarantee!

Finally just a month ago my husband purchased a new watch – but every time he put his hand in a wall (he’s an electrician) he would bump the side button and the watch would reset to EST – we are on CST. This was extremely frustrating for him, so he went and bought a different one. However, I remembered that the store we purchased the watch from had a 60-day satisfaction guarantee – and he wasn’t satisfied so I returned it and they accepted it with no issue. This ended up saving us about $35!

Often times, when a product isn’t working anymore, we tend to simply toss it in a junk drawer or throw it out – but I encourage you to think twice before tossing that broken item.

Consider taking a few minutes to write the manufacturer or look up the return policy for where you bought the item. Even if you don’t have the receipt they may give you an in-store credit.

Companies only know a product isn’t working if consumers tell them. I believe that companies who back their product with a lifetime guarantee truly expect their product to last and would want to correct the issue if it hadn’t lasted.

Shared Jun 12, 2015 comment

“The path to failure is paved with good intentions.”

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 12, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Y’all. I continue to be utterly blown away by your kind comments and emails about my new Make Over Your Mornings course. Truly. We’ve never, ever seen the kind of response and excitement to anything we’ve launched as we’re seeing with this product.

Thank you for your sweet words, for believing in the message of this product, and for spreading the word. I am so grateful to hear how it is changing lives!

Here’s a post that Cara from The Home Learner wrote. You’ll want to click through and read the whole thing — I think you’ll be very inspired!

I’ve been circling. Imagine toilet bowl with me. Yes, it’s felt that bad.

Stress mounting to the point of spiraling out of control, and no matter the amount of know-betters and best-intentions I’ve truly been in constant conflict with myself.

I was going through one of the roughest days I’ve had in a very long time. And no matter how much I could pray through and ask for more faith to trust, at the bottom of everything I was feeling was this demand to know the source – was this a test to make me stronger? Or a temptation to see me fail? Should I beg for mercy, wait, and endure? Or should I fight back, get tough, and push through?

I felt like I was at the fever pitch of what my self-control could handle and yet there was more coming at me than I felt like I could bear. I couldn’t see clearly to the end of the day, let alone the end of the problems.

Read the rest of the post here.

Shared Jun 11, 2015 comment

Three Tips for Setting Great Summer Goals

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 11, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Guest post from Beth of BethDemme.com

As this school year winds down, I found myself more eager for summer than ever. I celebrated the end of this school year with unprecedented glee.

I love summer because it means more family time, more traveling, and no homework. To avoid wasting the golden opportunity that is summer, we start the summer with specific goals.

Here are my top three tips for setting great summer goals:

1. Ask Your Children What Interests Them

Children spend the school year learning what teachers tell them they have to learn. Summer is an opportunity for them to choose their subjects.

For example, last summer my son wanted to learn magic. At the beginning of the summer, he used some his own savings to buy a few magic tricks. He worked on those illusions any time summer boredom threatened. At the end of the summer, his dad and I got a free show!

2. Try to Serve Others

Service is important throughout the year, but the free-time offered over the summer makes it even easier to schedule family service projects.

Here are some great summer service projects you can do with your children:

Volunteer with an organization that makes summer lunches for children who receive free lunch during the school year. Talk to your children about what life is like for these children who often go hungry during the summer.
Ask a nearby school or church if they have a closet or classroom that needs cleaning. When you’re done, decorate the bulletin board or let your children draw an amazing mural on the dry erase board.
Find an older neighbor who would like help with their yard work. When you’re finished, go home and run through the hose or jump in the pool with all your dirty yard work clothes on.

3. Don’t Forget Yourself

Remember to set a learning goal for yourself, too. You’ll probably be in your minivan less and, hopefully, sitting by the pool more. You can use that time to explore your own interests.

I have a few topics I’m interested in so I’ve made a “Learning Plan List.” For me they’re all Bible related, but your list could be anything — a time period you want to learn about, a new genre of books you’re interested in, or even a set of recipes you want to try.

Here’s a great tip — don’t forget about audiobooks! There are amazing books and lectures available in audio formats (check Audible and iTunes). You can put in your earbuds and absorb an incredible amount of information this summer.

By the end of this Summer, your whole family will feel energized and ready for the Fall.

Beth Demme is a mom, public speaker, and sometimes lawyer. She’s all about Learning to Live Loved. You can read more at BethDemme.com.

Shared Jun 10, 2015 comment

12 Goals for 2015: My May Update (Wow! What a month it was!)

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 10, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

After a difficult April, May was much, much better. And it was full of adventures and excitement and new things…

I got stuck in the Dallas airport for 14 hours!

We started our new summer homeschool curriculum and schedule (we homeschool year-round).

Jesse and I ran our first Tough Mudder.

Kaitlynn started taking intensive all-day figure skating lessons/coaching on Mondays and Wednesdays and the ice rink has become my home away from home.

Silas finished out his season of baseball and is already looking forward to next season!

We celebrated the beginning of summer with $0.25 Corn Dogs from Sonic.

We launched my first-ever online video course — Make Over Your Mornings — and have been blown away by your response, enthusiasm, and amazing comments! If you’ve not purchased it yet, you can grab your copy here. (Photo from tshogue on Instagram.)

Silas and I went to San Francisco for a quick business trip. The highlight for him was definitely seeing the Golden Gate Bridge!

Here’s an update on my goals for 2015:

My 12 Goals for 2015

Marriage

Read 1 book per month on marriage.

Read in January: 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband

Read in February: From This Day Forward

Read in March: For Married Women Only

Read in April: 50 Frugal Dates

Read in May: Red Hot Romance Tips

Write at least 1 love note to Jesse each week.

Done in January

Done in February

Done in March

Done in April

Done in May.

Motherhood

Read at least 1 book aloud to the kids per month.

Read in January: James and the Giant Peach

Read in February: The Imagination Station Book 15

Read in March: The Imagination Station Book 16, Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing

Read in April: Caleb’s Story

Read in May: Pedro’s Journal

Write 1 love note to each child every month.

Done in January.

Done in February.

Done in March.

Done in April.

Done in May.

Myself

Complete all She Reads Truth 2015 Bible Studies + memory work.

Done in January — I absolutely loved the John study.

Done in February — I really enjoyed the Esther study.

Done in March — I’m finished the Lent study — so, so good!

Done in April — I loved the Timothy study!

Done in May — I’m so enjoying the Women in the Word study.

Read 1 fiction book per month.

Read in January: What Alice Forgot

Read in February: The Cricket in Times Square (read aloud to the kids)

Read in March: Lizzy & Jane

Read in April: Dear Mr. Knightley

Read in May: Walk the World’s Rim (read aloud to the kids)

MoneySavingMom.com

~~Hire a local personal assistant.~~

Done! And I’m so grateful! My new assistant, Ashley, is amazing!

Launch 2 courses (we’re planning one for spring and one for fall — stay tuned!)

Woot! Woot! We launched Make Over Your Mornings last week!

Launch our new product line (slated to soft launch in the summer).

Release my third book (slated to come out November 2015).

We’re in the middle of gearing up for marketing and publicity and are in the midst of the final edits. Can’t wait to tell you more about this book in the coming months!

Money

~~Increase last year’s overall giving totals by 10% in 2015.~~

Part of my going to South Africa was to investigate the possibility of our family personally supporting the work of Take Action. After coming home, we both felt this was the direction we were supposed to take and our partnership with them will allow us to meet this goal. We’re so thrilled with what God is doing there in South Africa and, for those who have joined us in this through the #TenDollarTribe.

Finish funding our Rental House #3 Savings Account.

We’re still at 60%. We didn’t make any headway here as it was a very low month for us income-wise last month — which is very typical for us at this time of year, especially since we’re in the process of investing a lot of money back into the business right now.

How are you doing on YOUR goals for 2015?

If you set goals for this year, I’d love to hear how you are doing on them! Leave a comment telling us about your progress on them or leave the link to your blog post about them. Here’s to a year of living with purpose, intentional, impact, and meaning!

Shared Jun 10, 2015 comment

We Paid Cash: A Debt-Free Summer

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 10, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

A testimony from Sarah

Each summer, our family’s income drops dramatically. My husband is a graduate student, and his funding stops during the summer months. While I am still earning money, it is simply not enough to pay all of our bills and living expenses.

In the past, we have used credit cards to help us through the summer. This year, however, we have committed to paying off our debt, and we refuse to add any more to our credit card bill.

Back in October, we sat down together and examined our finances. We decided that we would need $700 for each summer month (June, July, and August) to be able to pay all bills and live comfortably. That is $2100! That number seemed almost unreachable at the time, but we committed to trying.

Imagine our excitement when we had saved that much by the end of March!

Here’s how we did it:

We Saved All “Bonus” Money

We decided to view any “bonus” money as money earmarked for our summer fund. This included:

$500 end-of-the-year bonus from my employer for having an advanced degree
$200 gift at Christmas from family
$500 from our tax refund

It was tempting to view this money as fun spending money. However, since we were committed to our financial goal, we immediately put it in our summer account.

I Picked Up Extra Work

I am a full-time teacher, and my school asks for staff to tutor in the afterschool program. This program pays $25 an hour, so I decided to work two hours a week.

From this relatively small time commitment, I ended up earning $700!

There were many days when I was exhausted by the end of the school day, but I knew our goal of a debt-free summer was worth the effort.

We Saved Money Leftover from our Budget

Our family has a written weekly budget that we keep a close eye on. We have decided how much we will spend each week on groceries, household items, gas, fun, etc.

We actually have a chart on our refrigerator where we record everything that we spend in those categories each day. Therefore, it is easy to know if we are over or under our budget at the end of the week.

My husband and I decided to take any money leftover from our budget and transfer it to our summer fund. For example, we budget $70 per week on groceries for our family of five. If I spent $65 one week, we moved $5 into our summer account.

I wasn’t sure if it was worth it to save a few dollars here and there, but I decided to give it a try. I’m glad I listened to my husband, because we saved $200 this way!

It was an amazing feeling when we realized that we had reached our goal. We are looking forward to our stress-free, debt-free summer. We’ll be able to enjoy it much more knowing that we will not be paying for it for years to come.

Sarah is an Orthodox Christian, wife, mother of three small children, full-time teacher, and writer. She blogs about faith, family, and frugal living over at The Orthodox Mama.

Have you saved up and paid cash for something — large or small? Submit your story for possible publication here.

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

Click here to download!

Shared Jun 10, 2015 comment

5 of My Top Tips for Successful Blogging

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 10, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

I was honored (and surprised!) to be featured on Success Magazine’s site yesterday with an incredibly generous write-up, as well as some of my top tips for successful blogging.

If you’ve been thinking of starting a blog or just want a peek at the behind-the-scenes on how this blog got started, be sure to read the article here on My Top 5 Tips for Successful Blogging.

For more helpful ideas, read my post on How to Make Money Blogging.

Shared Jun 9, 2015 comment

Do It Yourself: Baby Shower on a Budget

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 9, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

MissMaesDays.com shows you how to plan a super cute baby shower via the dollar store!

Do you have a fun and frugal DIY idea to share? I’d love to hear about it! Read the submission guidelines and submit it here.

Shared Jun 8, 2015 comment

My 10 Goals For This Week (& whew! I survived last week!)

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 8, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Whew! So I survived a very big week last week — Monday I spent all day at the ice rink with Kaitlynn and then we got together with our Monday Group that evening.

Monday evening, around 9:30 p.m., we went into full-on Make Over Your Mornings Launch mode and kept going strong through 8 p.m. Tuesday evening — except for a short 5-hour break to sleep.

photo from YaySugarCrumbs

I went to bed by 10 p.m. on Tuesday evening and slept in a little on Wednesday morning and then headed to spend all day at the ice rink again with Kaitlynn.

Wednesday evening, I finished some laundry, packed Silas’s stuff and my stuff for our trip to San Francisco, and went to bed by 11 p.m. — which was later than I’d hoped to, but sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do!

We had to get up by 4 a.m. to get out the door for our early-morning flight. We spent all morning Thursday on planes and in airports to make it to San Francisco by noon. And then we stopped quickly by our hotel and then spent all afternoon in meetings with ePantry.

We took an hour break to go on the Harbor Cruise and then went out to dinner with the ePantry team, and then crashed at our hotel around 10 p.m. (12 a.m. our time).

Silas and I both got a good night’s rest and then headed to the airport around 9 a.m. for more airports and plane rides — making it back to TN around 7 p.m. We got home, unpacked, hung out with the family, and then went straight to bed and slept in until 8 a.m. the next morning.

Saturday and Sunday were quiet days at our house — and it was such a nice break! I got caught up on laundry, went grocery shopping, went to Silas’ last baseball game with friends, went to church, served at church, cleaned up the house, and read for about 5 hours. It was bliss!

And today, I was back at the ice rink again all day and then we had dinner with our Monday Group — some of my favorite people on the planet and we laughed until we cried tonight recounting all sorts of stories and anecdotes from our lives. We’re so blessed to know these families and have the opportunity to do life with them!

{By the way, you can see a little video here of one of Kaitlynn’s current off-ice skating exercises, if you’re interested. I’m learning SO much about how much work goes into figure skating — and how much of the work doesn’t even happen on the ice!}

This week’s goals:

Marriage/Mothering/Homemaking Goals

1. Finish one read aloud book with the kids

2. Write a love note to Jesse.

3. Go through and declutter at least two rooms in our house.

Personal Goals

4. Exercise at least 3 times.

5. Finish reading at least one book.

Local Ministry/Hospitality/Friendship Goals

6. Help the kids write notes to Grandma for her birthday.

7. Write notes to our Compassion-sponsored kids.

Business Goals

8. Prep for speaking at the Virginia Homeschool Conference this weekend.

9. Finish writing a chapter I’m contributing to an ebook compilation project.

10. Read through the entire manuscript of my new book (psst! You can see the cover and read more about it here.)

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.

Shared Jun 8, 2015 comment

50 iPhone Apps That Will Help You Save

Published: by Crystal Paine on June 8, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Guest post from Carolyn of Macfinest blog

In our fast paced world, there are so many different apps to choose from that it can seem overwhelming, and not to mention time consuming, to sit and go through them all.

That’s why we have come up with a comprehensive list for you of 50 of the best apps that will help you to save money this year!

[01] Acorns

Acorns is a financial app that allows you to boost your investments through unconventional means. That’s right, you can invest with your spare change from everyday purchases in a very user-friendly way.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[02] AllRecipes Dinner Spinner

This great app gives you access to a world of recipes provided by members just like you. It gives you a simplified personal experience, while saving you money with affordable ingredients and recipes.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[03] Amazon Local

For anyone who loves to explore, this app is a gem. It helps you to find the most affordable attractions, hotels, and events going on; whether you are in your hometown or traveling.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[04] BestParking

This great app does its best to save you money when you go to park by providing the most up-to-date rates by city. If it’s wrong, you are guaranteed a $5 Starbucks gift card.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[05] CardStar

CardStar is a great way to save money as you can easily input all of your membership cards. Combine this with coupons that are sent straight to your phone, and you’re on the way to big savings.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[06] Checkout51

This app allows you to earn cash back on your groceries. Simply select the item you want from the list, take a picture of your receipt, and earn real cash every single time.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[07] Converter Plus

This is a great app for anyone who wants to quickly get a conversion on any two units of measurement. It is a great tool that will save you time and frustration.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[08] Coupon Sherpa

This app gives you the ability to simply show any coupon on your phone to be scanned, which means you won’t have to lug around a mountain of paper coupons any longer.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[09] DayCost

This is a simplified way to keep track of expenses. It allows you to easily input category and the amount of each transaction so that you stay on budget every time.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[010] DebtTracker Pro

If you are working to get out of debt, this great app will help you get on track. With its intuitive payment strategies and user-friendly platform, debt will be gone in no time.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[011] EasilyDo

This comprehensive virtual assistant app is great to have for anyone who is busy. It provides reminders, package tracking, weather alerts, and much more in an effort to make your days run more smoothly.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[012] Evernote

This fantastic organizational app helps you to save time and money by providing you with top notch productivity tools for free. It helps you create checklists, and documents with ease.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[013] Favado

This great app is a huge help during grocery shopping. It shows all of the sales that are going on in all of your favorite stores, enabling you to save lots of money every week.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[014] GasBuddy

By providing updated gas prices, both you and others around you are able to save money. All of the users on GasBuddy are contributors so that everyone saves on their gas bill.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[015] GateGuru

GateGuru provides real-time information on your flight and helps you to have the best travel day possible. It streamlines everything for you so that you can kick back and relax.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[016] Gateway2Go

This is an effective banking app that helps you keep track of your account balances as well as transfers that can affect your spending patterns, which in turn can help save you money.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[017] Grocery iQ

This app provides a comprehensive shopping list. It gives you the ability to sort by aisle, food category, and to create your own custom categories so that you can have the most personalized grocery list possible.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[018] Groupon

This is a great money saving app, as it provides you with fantastic coupons. Whether it is for your favorite restaurant, or a much needed spa day, Groupon ensures that you get the best bang for your buck.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[019] Hopper

This smart flight planning app provides you with all of the pricing trends for the flights that you are interested in. It helps show you the ideal time to buy your tickets so that you save money.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[020] Hub Family Organizer

This is a great way to help keep your family on the same page. By sharing checklists, grocery lists, and other important lists, you are all able to stay connected.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[021] Ibotta

This is a great way to earn real cash on groceries. By selecting the offers that you want from the variety of stores available, you are able to redeem them and earn money in the process.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[022] Inbox Dollars

This app allows you to earn money by doing what you enjoy on the internet. It has participating offers that you can take advantage of and that you can earn money from.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[023] LearnVest

This financial app provides a great way to budget, as well as insight through its articles in order to help make you a more informed consumer. With this information, you are sure to save money.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[024] Level Money

This detailed budgeting app helps you to easily and quickly track your spending. It shows you patterns from the last week, and the last month. You can also keep track of all of your card balances.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[025] LevelUp

This great purchasing app allows you to conduct transactions with various businesses through your phone. It also gives you credits for those businesses based on different rewards programs that they provide.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[026]Living Social

Much like Groupon, this app provides you a quick and easy way to save money on local services and products. With deals up to 80% off, it is definitely worth it to try this app out.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[027] Mint Personal Finance

This comprehensive personal financing app helps you to be smarter in your spending. It shows you where you have been spending more money so that you know where to cut back.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[028] My Data Manager

This nifty tracking app will help you save money by preventing overcharges on your phone’s monthly data bill. It reminds you when you are getting close to the limit and shows you how to cut back.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[029] Onavo Extend

This amazingly intuitive phone app helps you to extend the life of your data. By compressing all of the messages and videos that are sent, you save money in the long run.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[030] OneReceipt

This is a great way to help keep track of all of those receipts floating around. Whether they are electronic or paper, this app helps consolidate them so that you know exactly what you are spending.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[031] Raise

This gift card app makes it possible to both buy and sell gift cards. This can be very handy if you received a gift card to a locale that you rarely visit and can ensure future savings.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[032] RetailMeNot

This is a fantastic coupon app that allows you to use coupon codes and take advantage of all of the deals in your area. It also syncs across devices, making it a very convenient app to use.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[033] Sale Saver

This app helps show you what you are really paying for what you would think is a great deal. It shows the price difference to include the sale difference to see if it’s really worth it.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[034] Scoutmob

While this app is only available in certain cities, it does provide an excellent service. By showing you all of the local businesses and events, you are able to take advantage of deals.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[035] Shoeboxed

This financial app helps you save money by keeping track of your receipts. By simply snapping a photo, the app is able to create expense reports that can show you where your money is going.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[036] ShopKick

This is a great shopping companion app. It gives you kicks (points) for just walking into your favorite stores. Making purchases there also helps so that you can get a gift card that much sooner.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[037] Skype

Skype is one of the most well-known calling apps. It helps you save money by providing free calls to anyone, anytime, anywhere. With messaging, video chat, and group chat available, it is a tool to have.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[038] Slice

This is a great money-saving app. It shows you all of your online purchases, and helps keep track of price drops. If there is a price drop, you are able to get a refund for the difference.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[039] Slickdeals

This comprehensive app shows you the best deals and coupons for your area. It also has the ability to remind you when important events are coming up so that you never forget a birthday or anniversary again.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[040] SnipSnap

This is a great coupon app that takes the paper out of couponing. It lets you snap a picture of the coupon you want and then makes it possible to scan it when you’re at the store.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[041] SubscriptMe

SubscriptMe keeps track of all of your subscriptions and shows you what they’ll cost to maintain over a long period of time. It helps you determine whether they are really worth keeping.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[042] Target Cartwheel

Target’s Cartwheel app is a great way to save money in store. Just select the offers you want to use and then the cashier will scan your phone at checkout through your personalized barcode.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[043] Timeful

This great time management app helps you save time and money through great checklists and a comprehensive calendar system. Say goodbye to late fees and missed appointments as this app keeps you ahead of the game.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[044] TrackMySpend

This is a very effective budgeting tool. It helps you keep track of your spending habits and shows you when you’re close to your planned limit so that you stay with the plan and save money.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[045] TransferWise Money Transfer

This app helps you save money on what would otherwise be costly money transfers. It helps you wire money to anyone anywhere at a fraction of the cost, as well as pay your bills.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[046] Viggle

This app for TV lovers is a great way to earn cash for what you do already. By taking simple trivia during your favorite shows, you are able to earn points and redeem prizes.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[047] WebMD

This informative healthcare app can help you save money on doctor’s appointments. It provides insight and information into any illness you may be facing. It also shows you what medicines can help you feel better.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[048] Whatsapp

This chatting app helps give users the ability to text internationally for free as well as leave voice notes, and send pictures and videos to each other. It’s a great way to communicate.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[049] You Need a Budget

This personal finance app helps you to keep track of your spending, come up with a realistic budget, and helps you to stick to it so that you save money.

Download Link: Click here to download app

[050] Yummly

This great food app helps you save money by showing you great recipes that you can easily make at home. All of the recipes are voted on by members so that the most popular choices rise to the top.

Download Link: Click here to download app

With so many great options to save money this year, it can be a bit challenging to pick which ones you will use. Fortunately, the choice has been simplified through this comprehensive list so that you can save money and love doing it.

Carolyn is the founder of Macfinest blog. She is been married to her amazing husband, Thomas, and has 9-month old twins, beautiful Becky and Alan.

Shared Jun 8, 2015 comment

Gretchen’s $52 Grocery Shopping Trip and Weekly Menu Plan

Published: by Gretchen on June 8, 2015 | This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.

Walmart

1 Ivory Bodywash – $0.97, used $0.25/1 printable – $0.72 after coupon

1 bag Great Value Chocolate Chips – $1.98

1.02 lbs Roma Tomatoes – $1.37, received $0.20 back from Ibotta – $1.17 after rebate

1 Pineapple – $1.29 (Price matched to Aldi)

2 Cucumbers – $0.29 each (Price matched to Aldi)

4 Avocados – $0.29 each (Price matched to Aldi)

3 pkg Strawberries – $1.29 each (Price matched to Aldi)

Total after coupons and rebate: $10.77

Homeland

1 Oscar Meyer Natural Turkey Lunchmeat – $3.49, used $0.75/1 printable (doubled) – $1.99 after coupon

1 box Ritz Crackers – $2.50, used $1/1 printable (doubled) – $0.50 after coupon

1 box Wheat Thins – $2.50, used $1/1 mailer coupon (doubled) – $0.50 after coupon

2 Reynolds Baking Cups – $0.89 each, used $1/2 printable (doubled, no longer available) – Free after coupon

1 Simply Lemonade – $2.29, used $0.75/1 printable (doubled) – $0.79 after coupon

2 3 Musketeers – $0.65 each, used $0.50/2 printable (doubled) – $0.15 each after coupon

1 Juicy Juice Apple Juice – $2.50, used $0.75/1 printable (doubled) AND $0.50 back from Ibotta – $0.50 after coupon and rebate

2 Oscar Meyer P3 Protein packs – $1.25 each, used $1/2 printable (doubled) – $0.25 each after coupon

Hunts Super Snack Pack Pudding – $2.89, used $1/1 printable (doubled) – $0.89 after coupon

Total after coupons and rebate: $5.97

Dillons

1 gallon Dillons Milk – $2.64, received $0.20 back from Ibotta – $2.44 after rebate

1 bag Kroger Brown Sugar – $1.99

1 bag Baby Carrots – $1.79

1 bag Psst Sugar – $2.19

1 box Kroger Dish Detergent – $3.29, used $2/1 mailer coupon – $1.29 after coupon

2 Angel Soft Bath Tissue – $1 each, used 2 $0.55/1 printable – $0.45 each after coupon

1 Ham Steak – $2.50

1 bag Kroger Frozen Hashbrowns – $1.99

1 Kroger Cottage Cheese – $1.50

1 Kroger Sour Cream – $1

1 dozen Dillons Eggs – $2.27

2.04 lbs Bananas – $1.20, received $0.25 back from Checkout 51 – $0.95 after rebate

1 Romaine Lettuce – $0.99

4 Horizon Mac & Cheese – $1 each, used 2 Buy One Get One Free printable – $0.50 each after coupon

1 bag Kroger Frozen Chicken Breasts – $6.99

1 bag Kroger Flour – $1.79

1.05 lbs Peaches – $1.34

2 White Rain Kids Bodywash – Marked down to $1.09 each

Total after coupons and rebates: $36.10

Total for all grocery stores: $52.84

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfasts

Cereal x 2

Toast & Eggs x 3

Fruit Smoothies & Pumpkin Muffins x 2

Lunches

Cheese/Crackers/Veggies/Fruit x 2

Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches, Carrots

Turkey Sandwiches, Fruit Salad

Macaroni & Cheese, Carrots, Avocados

Baked Potatoes with Cottage Cheese, Steamed Broccoli (from freezer)

Leftovers

Dinners

Salad Bar x 2 (When it’s hot outside, we love to do this meal since it doesn’t use the oven.)

Venison BBQ Meatballs, Butterhorns, Green Beans

Taco Salad, Strawberries

Chicken Stir-fry, Rice, Avocados

Ham and Hashbrown Casserole, Pineapple

Venison Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, Biscuits

Summer Bucket List

Summer Bucket List

FREE Summer Bucket List!!

1. Getting To Meet My Readers & Hear Their Stories

2. Comfy Pants

3. Baked Oatmeal

4. Heart-to-Heart Talks With Our Kids

5. Friends Who Allow Me to Be 100% Honest

Aldi

Homeland

Dillons

Menu Plan for This Week

Breakfast

Lunches

Dinners

What have you said “yes” to because of budgeted living?

Aldi

Harris Teeter

Weekly Grocery Total: $66.76

Weekly Menu Plan

Breakfasts

Lunches

Dinners

Snacks

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

1. Ask Your Children What Interests Them

2. Try to Serve Others

3. Don’t Forget Yourself

My 12 Goals for 2015

How are you doing on YOUR goals for 2015?

We Saved All “Bonus” Money

I Picked Up Extra Work

We Saved Money Leftover from our Budget

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

[01] Acorns

[02] AllRecipes Dinner Spinner

[03] Amazon Local

[04] BestParking

[05] CardStar

[06] Checkout51

[07] Converter Plus

[08] Coupon Sherpa

[09] DayCost

[010] DebtTracker Pro

[011] EasilyDo

[012] Evernote

[013] Favado

[014] GasBuddy

[015] GateGuru

[016] Gateway2Go

[017] Grocery iQ

[018] Groupon

[019] Hopper

[020] Hub Family Organizer

[021] Ibotta

[022] Inbox Dollars

[023] LearnVest

[024] Level Money

[025] LevelUp

[026]Living Social

[027] Mint Personal Finance

[028] My Data Manager

[029] Onavo Extend

[030] OneReceipt

[031] Raise

[032] RetailMeNot

[033] Sale Saver

[034] Scoutmob

[035] Shoeboxed

[036] ShopKick

[037] Skype

[038] Slice

[039] Slickdeals

[040] SnipSnap

[041] SubscriptMe

[042] Target Cartwheel

[043] Timeful

[044] TrackMySpend

[045] TransferWise Money Transfer

[046] Viggle