We’ve all dreamed out taking a trip to a Disney theme part to indulge in the fairy tales of life. Of course, this dream can abruptly stop as soon as the price tag is considered into the equation. There are, fortunately, many ways to make your Disney vacation a reality without having to force you to empty your bank account. If you want the vacation of your family’s dreams then these ten tips will help you find a great financial balance when it comes to your vacation budget. Now, you and your children can enjoy the beautiful Disney theme park and create memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Multi-Pass
If you intend to spend more than a couple of days at the park then it might be a great idea to go ahead and purchase this multi-pass. This pass typically isn’t limited to one Disney park, so you can explore the water park as well as the main park without having to buy tickets for both. Multi-passes are typically the best route to take if you want a longer vacation because the price typically drops around $40 per day at the park. If you stay for the entire week you will have saved nearly $300 dollars on each member of your party. These savings can really add up and will come in handy when you’re actually inside the park and see all of the exciting things that you might want to eat or buy. You might even be able to pass through some lines a bit faster with a multi-pass in hand. So, make sure to ask your travel agent how this type of pass can benefit your family.

2. Free Attractions
Although you might have a week filled will fun events to see and do, you might want to take a break from some of the more expensive things and check out a few free exhibits that can relax the family and the wallet. For starters, going to see the Epcot center is free and is something everyone should see if they are going to a Disney park. This center is an iconic piece of Disney history and will bring a nice historic lesson to the trip. The monorail is another free area and might give the kids something to look forward to. If you have younger kids then there are many great areas that feature floating characters in the water. This could be a nice area to break for lunch and relax before you go back to the busy park.

3. Food
If your family wants to experience the most Disney food they can then a food plan is probably the best way to go. This plan will provide each person with two meals and a snack per day at a discounted price. This is a great bargain for people who have their hearts set on eating at the park and will ensure that you get enough food throughout your trip to remain energized and satisfied. Of course, for those not wanting to spend too much money at the park, Disney actually allows you to bring in your own food and drink. So, hit the grocery store before you head to the park and bring a picnic along with you. You can also leave the park for awhile to leave, as a simple stamp on the hand can allow you back in to enjoy the festivities with a full stomach.

4. Dress Up Before You Show Up
A lot of children, and some adults, enjoy showing up at the park in their favorite characters attire. The key to doing this is to dress up before you come to the park. Yes, the park does offer a makeover service for anyone that wants to be made into their favorite character, but this can run you around $50 per makeover. So, find a costume before you go on vacation and wear it to the park so when you meet your favorite character you can show off your attire. If you really want to a Disney makeover then allow Disney to add some glitter to your hair for the low price of $5. This will still provide you with the experience without having to pay the huge price tag.

5. Hotel
If your looking for some extra Disney perks then your hotel can save you a lot. Try to find a low cost Disney park and you will enjoy free parking as well as being allowed to remain in the park for longer. Having a Disney hotel also means your closer to the park so coming back and forth is not big deal during your trip. Of course, if you are looking to save even more money then you can try to find a hotel away from the park. There are many fairly priced hotels in the area and many even offer free parking or a free continental breakfast. If saving is your main objective then trying looking for a place further from the park. This will cut down on your spending, but will also mean a lot less time spent at the park.

6. Disney Transport
Disney offers a series of shuttles and buses that help customers get from the park to their hotels. These services are free to those that have park tickets and can make your transportation stress drop a lot. Using the transportation means that you don’t actually have to remove your car from hotel parking, which can save you a lot of money. It also means that you won’t have to drive around looking for a spot to park your before you can even get in line to go into the park. The shuttles and buses drop you off in a convenient location, so you can easily get you and your family in line and in the park in no time. The buses run frequently too, so you won’t have to worry about being crammed into a tight space because there won’t be another bus for an hour or two. With this luxury service you can even leave your car at home and enjoy your trip without having to spend anything on parking.

7. Off Season Planning
If your planning a Disney vacation then you might want to consider when you go before anything else. There are a lot of different pricing options when you buy tickets. For instance, when you buy them around the summer time you’ll pay a lot more than when the park is less populated. So, you might want to take some vacation time in the winter or spring to make your vacation a little more affordable. Off season planning also benefits you when it comes to the amount of people you have to share the park with Although there might not be as many bells and whistles going on you will still get to see all of your favorite characters while not having to feel rushed or stand in too long of lines.

8. Souvenirs
People tend to lose the most money when it comes to buying souvenirs. These items are generally over priced and aren’t necessary. If you really feel the need to buy souvenirs then you might try buying smaller items like pins or shot glasses for friends and family. Of course, you can also buy the same items outside of the park for a lot less money than you would expect. When it comes to bring grandparents home souvenirs, the best gift you can give them is a lot of pictures of their grandchildren having fun so make sure you bring a camera with you. Your kids might also ask for souvenirs and with a little coaxing you might get them to settle with an autograph book. You can easily make one at home with a notebook, stickers and markers and will definitely help your children build up hype for the vacation while they decorate it at home. When you get to the park your children can ask their favorite characters for an autograph and later you can add a picture if you want.

9. Look for Discounts
The best savings require a little work on your end. There are many different ways to find a discount on your ticket prices so ask your agent if you qualify for any. This might require a little research on your behalf, but the savings will certainly be worth it. If you are a AAA member you already qualify for a discounted ticket price, so make sure your travel agent is aware of this. Active military members also get to enter the park for a lower price, so if you currently serve make sure to bring your military I.D. , so you can enjoy a lower price. Also, if you are with a big party you might be able to get a group discount, so make sure to ask around. These are only a few of the discounts Disney offers, so do your research and see if your qualify for any.

10. Plan Your Time
You might not think about it, but your time is actually money when you’re in the park. You didn’t pay a whole lot of money to stand in line all day and miss out on half of the magical things Disney has to offer. So, budgeting your time can be the best way for your to save money and get the most out of your vacation. Before you leave for your trip try to get a hold of some schedules and plan out your days ahead of time. If you can’t get an up to date schedule then take a couple minutes when you enter the park to make a game plan. Try to plan out your days for meeting characters, catching shows and doing activities. Leave the early morning hours and later evening hours for rides as the lines will be shorter and you can do more in a short amount of time.

Your Disney trip doesn’t have to be filled with stress. Instead, take your time when planning out the finer details. There are many simple ways to reduce the cost of your trip if you just take some time and talk it out with your travel agent. You don’t have to dream about going on a Disney vacation, instead with these ten tips you will see that it can easily become a reality you and your family can enjoy.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Your father did everything in his nature to help you grow up right. With a tight budget it might be hard to find him something that he deserves, but there are many frugal options available that can help you find that perfect gift for dad. These ten tips can guide you in a direction you might not have thought about before and will ensure Father’s Day will always be something dad can look forward to. There’s no need to stress over the perfect gift any more, instead just think out of the box and tune your gift towards dad’s greater interest.

1. Get Dad Out of the House
Dad’s love to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, so why not take dad out for one of his favorite activities? A round of gold isn’t incredibly expensive and will give the two of you plenty of time to bond and enjoy one another’s company. Of course, you can also think a little bit more frugal and take dad out for a hike if you live near a trail. A nice hike will help dad relax and if you pack some extra special treats in your picnic you might just make dad’s year. Fishing is another great adventure that makes a simple father’s day turn into a perfect holiday. You can turn the day into a weekend trip and listen to dad tell you stories just like he did when you were a child. If your lucky, you might even catch some great deals on rafting, canoeing or mountain climbing that your dad might find to be incredibly exciting. There is also the ever popular baseball game that might win you big brownie points this year.

2. Watch Some TV
Dad’s work pretty hard so you can have the good life. This Father’s Day let your dad enjoy some time in front of the television where he can relax for a change. Give dad power to the remote and let him enjoy his favorite shows and games for the rest of the day. This might take a little bit of will power on your end. Even if you’ve seen the same baseball game over and over don’t complain about it. Let dad enjoy what he likes while taking in your company. Commercial breaks are also a great time to sit back and enjoy one another’s conversations. You might find that catching up with dad was more fun than you thought it would be and dad will always hold his time with you in high regards.

3. Chores
Dad’s tend to have a pretty large honey do list most of the time. This year you might want to take the list from mom and knock off a few of the items so dad doesn’t have to them. For starters, try mowing the lawn and any other yard work that dad might have missed throughout the week. You can also handle some of the easier task around the house. Make sure not to do anything that might cause a bigger problem though, as this isn’t a whole lot of help to dad. There are also a lot of things to do around the house that dad might not think about. You could organize his tools, shine up older trophies or fix up some of the electronics dad’s been having trouble with. After a few hours of work dad will not only be pleased for the break, but will also admire your efforts for his big day.

4. Cook Out
They say a key to a man’s heart is through his stomach, so why not give dad a gift that will satisfy both. With the June weather upon us it is time to bring out the grill and enjoy some classic summer foods that will make dad’s mouth water. Try to pick out some dad’s favorite grilled meats and give him a wide assortment to choose from. You might have to head into the kitchen to try out some of dad’s side dishes too. With a cook out in dad’s honor you won’t have to spend a whole lot of money to keep him feeling loved and appreciated. You can even invite other friends and family over to share in the celebration of your dad.

5. Detail the Car
Dad’s car is one of his most beloved possessions, so this father’s day show dad some love by showing the car some love. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to get dirty because this father’s day gift will make your dad beaming with pride. Make sure you give the car a good interior detailing. Don’t leave any trash or dust behind for dad to have to pick up a little later. You might refrain from throwing the trash away just in case dad needs some receipts or paper that you might have thought was trash. Once you have the interior cleaned, dusted, vacuumed and smelling nice make your way to the exterior. When you clean the exterior make sure you scrub the tires and clean on the windshield well. For some extra love add a finishing coat of polish to make the car look brand new. If you can get all this done before dad wakes up then you will surely be a superstar in his eyes.

6. Make a Card
Cards have become extremely expensive in the last few years. Although many of the play music, have props and other crazy thing they don’t actually beat a homemade card. You might want to look into making your own card this if you are running on a tight budget. There are many cool tutorials online that will teach you how to make a shirt and tie card that your dad will love. You can also think out of the box and come up with your own cool idea. The best thing about making your own card is that it is incredibly personal and will make your dad feel special. You can really go all out on a homemade car too. Whether you want to record your own music, draw your own pictures or find one on the internet. The choices are limitless and you will find that whatever you choose, dad will love the message and the thought that went into it.

7. Memories
Sharing memories with dad is one way to show him how you much you appreciate his presence in your life. This fathers day get your favorite pictures or videos together to make dad a collaboration of your favorite moments with you. You can either do this from a photo company or department store, or you can gather up some scrap booking gear and create a cool look of your own. Time is the main price when it comes to this gift, so if you have plenty to spare then this gift is perfect for you. A video collaboration is also very simple to do when if you have a computer that burns video content a disc. If you are really feeling creative you can also create a cover for the disc and a special case for dad to store it in.

8. Custom Gifts
There are a lot of online deals that can help you get dad a cool custom gift at a low price. Whether dad is a big coffee drinker or likes to keep his wardrobe casual there is something that can be customized online to suit his interest. You might have look hard for some of the better templates, but your dad will love showing off his number one dad shirt, or will love having his own dad only coffee mug. If you really want to be creative then you can make your own special gifts for dad. Try buying a blank t-shirt and decorating it with fabric paint to suit your dad’s style. You could also go to a pottery store and make dad a cool custom mug that he will cherish forever. It doesn’t matter what you choose to customize, dad will find some use for the gift and will feel as if you went the extra mile to give him a special day.

9. Shop Wisely
Tight budget or not, you might be able to find that perfect gift for dad if you use your shopping skills to get the lowest price possible. Shopping sales is always a must and luckily for most of use the Memorial Day Sales hit right before Father’s Day. This can open up a wide range of dad friendly items that get you the right gift without having to spend a whole lot. You can also search the web for a wide assortment of coupons on the gift you want to find. Sometimes, you might even get lucky and find one that can reduce the price to a fraction of the cost. One of the easiest ways to get the gift you want is to shop early though. You can start shopping for father’s day the day after father’s day, which can get you some awesome deals on dad inspired gifts.

10. Take Dad Out to Breakfast
The best way to give dad a great father’s day is to start it out right with a good hearty breakfast. Your dad will love spending time with you at one of his favorite breakfast restaurants. The great thing about breakfast is it can be one of the most filling meals of the day and can also save you a lot of money. During Father’s Day many restaurants will offer discounts on dads so your bill won’t be quite as expensive. A lot of breakfast places only charge half of the price they would for lunch and dinner. The best thing about going out for breakfast is it frees up a lot of time for dad to do just what he wants for his big day and gives him the fuel he needs to do it!

Don’t let Father’s Day go by without letting your dad know just how much he means to you. With these ten tops you can get dad something he will appreciate without actually paying a whole lot of money to do so. Your dad will love the special thoughts you gave to him and the time he gets to spend with you. With any luck, you might give him the best Father’s Day thus far.

Author: John Terris

Having personal space that reflects your interest and personality is always nice and helps you feel more comfortable in your home. Of course, children are often hard to plan for because their interest are always changing while they develop into the adult they are meant to be. With children’s rooms it is often hard not to fall into buying the trendy things they ask for because you just want to make them happy. With these ten tips you can actually design the perfect room for your child without having to constantly change it to suit their phases. This is not only great on money, but will help you keep your child happy and comfortable in his or her own element.

1. Linens
When it comes to buying your child bedding you can lose quite a bit of money if you aren’t careful. Most department stores will cater to the most popular children’s cartoons and movies in order to make more money. Although your child might love certain characters it will only be a matter of time before something bigger and better comes along. The best thing you can do in this situation is try to find solid colors your child loves. Often, you can find a comforter that has two different colors, so your child can switch between the colors when one color gets boring. Sheets are quite a bit cheaper than the whole comforter set, so you can purchase a few different colors your child likes to make the room change every once in awhile. If you really have to buy something that involves character then try to opt for the pillow cases. This usually only cost a few dollars and allows the child to switch more freely. If you really want to go the whole route with a theme then by a pattern set from a hobby store and sew it yourself. This will save you a lot of money and will satisfy your child’s phase.

2. Floor Tiles
Hardwood floors or dulled carpet can be pretty boring or uncomfortable for children. If you want a cheap way to spice up your child’s floor then look into getting carpet tiles. Sometimes, you can even get a lower price for some of the tiles as they are considered samples in many stores. Floor tiles allow you to have many different colors of the floor rather than one large solid color or print that your child can grow tired of. There are even many different places that will offer your brightly colored tiles for children. Some toy stores will even offer puzzle piece mats that are not only great for kids to sit on but also allows them to put the rug together on their own. Of course, comfort isn’t the only positive when it comes to carpet tiles. Children tend to spill drinks more frequently than others, but when you have carpet tiling you can just replace the tiles that were effected by the stain, rather than loosing a whole rug.

3. Recycled Items
You will be amazed as to how much you can do with some of your recycled items. For instance, old tins are perfect canisters for children’s supplies, such as crayons, markers, beads, jewelery and marbles. You can also use various different jars. You have to make sure the items are safety proofed first though. This can be as simple as placing tape or cloth other edges that might be dangerous. If you don’t want the items on a table you can always fasten them to the wall for an amazing work space your child will love to spend time at. Keeping your items in the canisters will help reduce clutter in your child’s room, which is perfect for anyone who lives in a smaller home.

4. Simple Desk
Every child needs a nice desk area to work on, but desk can be pricey. The great thing is desks are really easy to make. All you need is a plank of wood, or old door, and something to prop the wood up. You can get pretty creative with this task. For instance, if your child loves cars then you might want to find some old tires to secure down and prop the wood up. Shelves are another great idea when it comes to your child’s desk. This will provide excess space, without having to take up more space. If you are feeling really creative you might paint the top of the desk with chalkboard paint. This is fairly inexpensive and will give your child a great place to show of their creativity.

5. Artwork
Your child’s walls can be one of the easiest and cheapest ways to show off their interest. Posters are on of the easiest ways to keep up with your child’s phases without spending a lot of money. If you don’t like the way posters look on the wall then wait until you can find a sale on frames at a local store. Most hobby stores will rotate sales on these items and you can usually pick up a few poster frames at a low cost. This will also allow you to make your child’s room look nice even when they have passing interest. Simply rotate posters in and out of the frames and you have a unique personable look your child will love. You can also add their own artwork to a frame. Kids will love seeing their work on the wall and will feel encourages to pursue their arts. If you want to give the child something they are in more control of then fasten a sting to wall and give them some clothes pins. This will allow them to pin up their favorite art and pictures for a personal look they will love.

6. Toy Box
Every child needs a toy box, but this doesn’t mean you have to get too fancy. Try to find a cardboard box that is large enough for your child’s toys. Then, let the child decorate the box with markers so he or she can enjoy the toy box as a piece of art. A cardboard toy box can also double as a toy that will keep your younger children entertained for hours. Cardboard boxes are easy to replace when the time comes too. Of course, there are other more durable options, such as a plastic bin or wooden box that you make yourself. You and your child can easily make cutouts with poster board and construction paper to attach them box for a little customization that isn’t permanent.

7. Toys as Decor
Instead of buying a lot of different decorations for your child’s room try using their toys to keep the room looking unique. You can keep stuffed animals on the bed or on a shelf. This not only helps your child keep the room cleaner, but adds a nice touch that will make the room suit the child’s interest more. Action figures are another get thing to add a shelf or bureau. Your child can set the action figures up in battle scenes for a look that is not only playful but cool. Models are perfect to use as decorations. Any space models can easily be attached to the ceiling with fishing line, so your child can show of his or her craft while giving the model the illusion of flight. Cars and other grounded models work great on a shelf, desk or chest of drawers.

8. Customization
Children, especially younger ones, love seeing their name on things. So, if you really want to make a room special for your child then a little customization can go a long way. For starters, try embroidering your child’s name on pillows and blankets. This will not only make the child feel loved, but will add a special touch the room. Embossing items in the room can also be inexpensive and impressive. One of the most common ways to add a child’s name to the room is to add wooden lettering. This allow you to paint the letters and hang it up in a way that can create a focal point for the room. If your child is a bit older then a name sign for the door might be great. You can easily create a wooden or chalkboard sign that has your child’s name or other custom lettering on it for outside of the door.

9. Utilize Accents
If you really want to paint your child’s room then accents will be your key to saving money. You don’t have to paint the entire room to make it look nice. In fact, a nice accent wall is one of the best ways to customize a room without the paint being overwhelming for the child, especially if you choose a bright color. You can also choose specific areas to paint which can draw the eye for a nice focal point your child can be proud of. Shelves are one of the best things to paint when it comes to accent painting, as with the inside of the shelf painted it will look like your child has far more room to store items. Furniture is also great to accent. A nice wooden piece can easily be painted or spray painted for a quick and efficient way to change the way a room looks.

10. Night light
If your child still sleeps with a night light then there are many options you can explore to help reduce the price of your electric bill. One of the most common ways it to place glow in the dark stars on the ceiling. These stars will not only act as a slight light they will help ween the child away from needing a light to sleep with. They also work perfectly with space inspired rooms or kids who love the outdoors. Solar lights are also a great option for night time comforting. Now, these lights come in so many designs that you can place them all over the room. These lights can even be layed out as a design on the wall, which will make your child feel great when bedtime comes along. Of course, there are always glow in the dark and light up toys. This toys will look amazing as a display during the day and will keep your child feeling secure throughout the night.

Your child’s room doesn’t have to cost you a fortune just to redesign it. With these simple tips you will find that your child’s room is not only a secure place for them to spend their time, but will also bring the two of you together as you talk through ways to make the room better. From the artwork to the linens this little project will have the two of you working with one another and discovering new things that can save you money while making the room look like it was made just for your child’s personality.

Author: John Terris

Dieting can be one of the most stressful periods of your life. While giving up a bit on food and exercising a bit more, your body is quite ready to deal with the money crisis your diet might cause. There are a ton of crash diets on the market that aim at taking your hard earned money from you. You can even spend hundreds of dollars a month to have your food mailed to you. With these ten tips you can forget about spending more money while you diet and focus on the task at hand, losing some weight. With the added stress of financial issues gone you will find that the weight will come off a little bit faster than it normally would.

1. Avoidance
We all know having junk food in the home while we’re on a diet is probably not a good idea. Those moments where we feel a little bit weak can turn into a full on fiesta of cookies if we aren’t careful. So, it makes sense to keep away from junk food altogether. When your at the grocery store try sticking to the fresh aisles so you won’t ever have to be tempted by the junk food in the center aisles. The shopping mall is another bad place to visit, because the smell of the food court tends to dominate the entire shopping area. The assortment of food at the mall is typically bad for you too. If you’re planning on doing some shopping make sure you eat first and keep the food court well out of site. Certain areas of town where fast food is rampant should usually be labeled a black zone, at least while you’re dieting. If you really feel tempted to pull over for something on your way home from work try backing a piece of fruit with you so you can ease the hunger pains without ruining your diet. Avoiding these things will really keep you on your diet and can also keep some money in your pocket.

2. Gym Membership
If you’re signed up for a gym you know how much the monthly cost can really set you back. If you’re already living on a tight budget and need a little extra exercise for your diet try dropping the membership for awhile. One you pay the membership fee and drive to and from the gym you’ve already wasted time and money. Instead try putting on your running shoes and taking a jog around the neighborhood. You might even get a group of friends together to start a jogging or walking club that can leave you feeling even more fulfilled with your diet. Yoga is another great activity that will give you the toning potential your looking for in the comfort of your own home. You can even catch free yoga classes on the internet or t.v. In fact, there are a lot of free programs on the t.v. that will give you a great workout without costing you anything extra. If you find your schedule is a little more cramped than normal then do exercise while doing household chores. There are many websites and videos dedicated to these exercises so make sure you do your homework before you begin.

3. Online Support
The internet can be a great asset when it comes to saving some cash on your diet. You can actually find free support groups that are dedicated to helping you take off the weight without receiving a penny. Many of the most popular weightloss systems, like Jenny Craig, will offer you free advice so you can get the weight off. If you don’t really feel like you need to join a support group then you should still utilize the internet to help you lose. There are a wide assortment of free healthy recipes online that can help you shed pounds. Sometimes, you might even get lucky and find free advice from personal trainers or question forums for doctors. These things alone can be a great addition to your weightloss plan and don’t cost you anything more than your internet connection.

4. In Season Foods
You can’t argue that eating fruits and vegetables are a great way to shed some of your extra weight. However, if you don’t know what to buy or how to shop for produce you might find yourself losing a lot of money that you shouldn’t be. When looking at fruits and vegetables you should always look for things that are in season. This is usually pretty clear at the grocery store because these items will usually be in abundance and will cost a whole lot less than some of the other foods. If you start aren’t quite sure what is in season then look it up online or ask your local grocer. Of course, you could always just follow the sales on items. By looking for in season foods you’ll save a lot of money, but will also be able to create some really tasty foods that will help you get rid of some of your excess pounds.

5. Know Your Body
Many people will often suggest a lot of diets for you to try, which could end up costing you a lot. The best thing to do is get to know your body. If you have a hard time eating meats then Atkins diet probably isn’t for you. If you feel weak eating fewer calories then you know you need to exercise more. You don’t have to take every piece of dieting advice that comes your way. Instead look up the diet and consider what it is actually targeting. If you’ve tried something similar or know the plan won’t work for you then there is no reason to pay money in hopes that a miracle might happen. You will know your body better than everyone else does, so simply look into everything before you try. It will save you time, money and stress that you could be devoting to something that might actually work for you.

6. Cheap Meats
It might not sound ideal, but if you’re on a high protein diet you might want to look into alternative cuts of meat. Meat can be one of the biggest expenditures in a grocery store, so getting put on a high meat diet can really put a wrench in your budgeting. Instead of ordering the prime cuts of meat try to think cheaper. There are many cuts of meat such as liver that are pretty low cost and pack quite a bit of protein and other nutrients your body needs to healthily drop the weight. Most organ cuts will be the best for the price and will help you provide your body with what it needs. There are even many recipes that can help offset some of your aversions to the cut if you don’t particularly enjoy the meat.

7. Portion Control
One of the easiest ways to cut down on spending while dieting is to utilize the portion control method. There are many reasons to keep track of the appropriate portions. Of course, getting the proper amount of nutrients and not over eating is one of the biggest incentives when it comes to keeping track of your portions. However, when you cook with portions in mind you are also making a lot less food. This will save you money and prevent you from throwing out the food you don’t actually eat. Cutting down on snacking is also a great way to cut down on the grocery bill. Try to eat a few small meals and if you really have to add a cheap snack in between. A piece of fruit is typically one of the best ways to eat cheap while still eating something that will work great with your diet.

8. Say No To Gimmicks
Everyone knows that the best way to lose weight is to each right and exercise. For some reason we always seem to fall into some gimmick or another though. Diet pills are one of the worst gimmicks out there. The idea of losing weight faster by taking a simple capsule is pretty ideal, of course we end up paying a good chunk of cash for something that doesn’t really help at all. Diet pills are also incredibly bad for the system and can actually cause you to gain weight by slowing down your metabolism due to dependance. Crash diets are another big no in the world of dieting. Most of them force you to buy shakes or food bars that don’t last you week and cost you quite a bit. You will also go nowhere with the perfect body in a week scams that you see on television. Chances are that is a work can cause you to lose 30 pounds in a week you won’t want to move by the end of the week.

9. Water Filtration Device
Water is the essence of life and you can never go wrong with drinking this zero calories beverage, especially if you’re trying to lose weight. When you are dieting try to drink as much water as possible, it will not only cleanse your system but will keep you filling full and energized for a long time. Drinking a class of water first thing in the morning can also jump start your metabolism so you will burn calories a bit faster each morning. Buying bottled water can be incredibly expensive though, which is why you should make sure you have a water filtration device in the home. This will allow you to have clean water whenever you want it, while keeping hundreds in the bank.

10. Dieters Unite
Although it might seem like a simple trick, finding others who are also dieting can be a huge help for you. If you can create a group for people who are trying to lose weight then you can guarantee some success on your end. Having fellow dieters will give you people to go shopping with. This will prevent you from eating fast food or buying from the junk food aisle when you know you shouldn’t. Dieters groups also ensure that you will always have a buddy to go jogging with so you don’t have to be alone while doing the activity. You can even have weekly luncheons where you share recipes and eat salads and other healthy potluck meals. With someone else always watching your back when it comes to your diet plan you will keep away from the expensive diet plans and stay on track with your health food craze.

It is no myth that dieting is pretty tough, but with these ten tips you can skip out on some of the hardships and cut down to the diet plan you know will work the best. With money out of the way and temptation put behind you you will certainly find a way to take the weight off and keep it off before you even notice how hard you’ve worked for your goal!

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Becoming a new parent is scary enough, so why over burden yourself with money worries while you’re expecting? There are a few basic techniques that can help you save money on your new addition to the family, so that you can take some time to enjoy your new born before you start to worry about how much he or she is going to cost. New parents have so much to worry about that money is just a miniscule detail in the mix. With these ten tips you’ll be able to forget the bank account and devote all of your attention to your little one so the two of you can keep that bonding period strong.

1. Avoid Pre-Birth Shopping
A lot of parents tend to want to go out shopping as soon as they hear they are pregnant. Stocking up on the basics seems to be the best idea when in fact it can really cost you a lot of money. The best thing you can do when you find out your pregnant is to sit back and relax. The baby won’t be born for several months so you have plenty of time to save up for the event. Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the basics. A crib, car seat, a few bottles, a package of diapers and formula and a couple uni-sex outfits are usually all you should buy before you give birth. Once the child is born you can go shop for clothes, stock up on diapers and find the right bottles for your baby. Many parents tend to learn this lesson the hard way. A lot of times we assume we know what the child will like and then we he or she arrives we realize we have a ton of passafires, bottle nipples and formula that the baby won’t use and clothes that just don’t fit properly.

2. Cloth Diapers
It might seem a bit old school to you, but using cloth diapers can actually save you hundreds during the first few months of being a new parents. Let’s face it, diapers are incredibly expensive and you’ll be going through a lot of them for at least a year or two. The best thing you can do is make the switch to cloth diapers. Most cloth diapers are made to stay with baby until the child is potty trained. So, you not only won’t have to go out and buy new diapers after your initial purchase but you also won’t have to worry about the diapers not fitting your child after a certain amount of time. You can even get cloth diapers in cute little designs, so you don’t have to miss out on that aspect of your child’s infancy. Sure, you will definitely be washing a lot of laundry, but when you see how much you’re saving on the diaper game you won’t think twice about running an extra load every now and then.

3. Go With Used
If this is your first child you might want to buy all new things because you might not realize how quickly your child will go through the items. Of course, a couple new things is nice especially for the memory box but buying all new can be a huge mistake. If you can try to shop at a thrift store for used baby clothes. Your child will grow so quickly in the first year that you will constantly be buying clothes. Used clothes are the best way to save money and will give your child the appropriate sizes so you won’t have to end up shopping every few months. You should also ask friends and family if they have any hand me downs for your baby. Most people tend to hang on to baby clothes, so you might just win the baby clothes jackpot if you ask the right person. Toys are another item that can be bought used, especially the bigger items. Your child will stay interested in certain toys for so long, which is why there are a lot of age limits to baby toys. Try looking online or used stores for good quality toys for your little one.

4. Multi-Travel Set
When you shop for on the go items for your child you might want to look into sets that have more than one function. For instance, there is a huge market for strollers that also double as car seats. Many of these awesome devices are even adjustable so they can be changed as your child grows. This is an easy way to save money as the item usually isn’t much more expensive than actually buying a stroller or a car seat. So, you can get an adjustable stroller and car seat that will support your child’s needs from infancy all the way up to the toddler years. Make sure you do your research on the product though. You will want a set that will cater to your needs.

5. Food
Feeding your child will become one of your top priorities, but it can also become one of the most expensive baby products you will buy. If you can try to breast feed your child, as this is actually free and gives your child the most nutrients imaginable. Giving your baby formula, of course, isn’t bad for the child but it does lack a lot of the enzymes that your natural breast milk can give to the baby. Formula can also cost your a lot of over time and if you don’t get the right brand the first time around you will end up wasting a lot of money trying to find what formula your child needs to stay healthy. As the child grows you will eventually have to switch over to baby food. The little jars and snack packets are incredibly convenient, but they will leave you hurting for cash pretty quickly. The best thing you can do it utilize your blender for your child’s daily meals. There are a lot of baby food recipes online that can help you provide your child with healthy foods that won’t leave you shopping for extra ingredients when you go to market. This will also help your child make the leap from a liquid diet to normal food a bit easier.

6. Nursery Furniture
Many new parents pride themselves on the way their baby’s nursery looks when they bring the infant home from the hospital. The truth of the matter is, your child isn’t going to remember what the nursery looked like nor are they actually going to use any of the extra furniture. The best thing you can do is stick to the basics. You don’t need an over elaborate crib, changing table and any of the other extras. Shop for simple things that are a but cheaper. A crib is the most important thing when it comes to your child’s comfort so pick one that is durable and will last until it is time to switch to a toddler bed. A changing table doesn’t need to be over elaborate either. In fact you can easily just buy a changing pad and utilize the bathroom cabinet or a table you already own as the changing area. Rocking chairs are nice to have, especially when the baby is very young, but you don’t have to go to the store and look for one of those overly cushioned reclined. Instead use a chair that has been in the family, or choose a cheaper rocker that you can add extra padding to. Most thrift stores or used furniture places tend to have a decent selection of rocking chairs to choose form.

7. Say No to Brands
Brand names don’t always mean the goods are top quality, so it is best to avoid them all together. There are a lot of baby products on the market that will provide your child with quality goods that don’t cost you a whole lot of money. Clothing is one of the big things that you should never purchase in brand name form. Your child will go through clothes quickly, so spending $20 on a set of onsies is a bit ridiculous. Try shopping for these things at department stores, you’ll find the same item can cost you less than $5 here. Bottles can be as cheap as $1 for a 3 pack if you look in the right places. They won’t have the brand name logo, but they will work perfectly when it comes to feeding your child in the middle of the night. You can also find a wide selection of off brand diapers that not only keep work just as well as the big brands, but will help keep the diaper budget way down.

8. Follow Sales/Coupons
If you’re a big shopper you know how much a sale or a coupon can help you. Shopping for baby stuff is just the same. If you can, try subscribing to websites that offer tips for new mothers. This will not only give you tips on what to buy but they often end up sending you information for online and offline sales, as well as coupons. One of the best things about baby products is they usually come with coupons attached to the products. Before you dispose of formula cases, toy and diaper boxes check to make sure there aren’t coupons on the packaging. Also, before you go shopping look online for coupons at your favorite stores or check sales ads for places that usually sale items for babies or children. Even a 5% discount can go a long way when it comes to saving money on your child.

9. Ask For Help
If you are feeling overwhelmed with your baby shopping then the best thing you can do is ask for help. Chances are you have plenty of friends and family that have been through the situation before, so bring them along on one of your shopping excursions. These experienced mothers will be able to tell you what is nonsense buy and what will actually come in handy during your first year as a new mother. Asking for help can also help you get rid of a little stress that has built up over the first few months of parenting. You can talk out your concerns and get great tips on ways to deal with the child as well as your own stress.

10. Babysitter
Every once in awhile you need a day or evening away, so a babysitter seems like a logical expenditure. Babysitting can really cost you a lot of money if you aren’t careful though. If you can try turning to a family member when you need a break. Grandmothers will typically take in their grandchildren with open arms which can save you a lot of money. If you don’t have family near by try making friends with other mother’s. This way you can take turns watching one another’s children without having to pay someone to babysit. It also gives you a chance to get to the person that will be watching your child, so you can go out without worrying about who you left your child with.

Having a new born in the home can be stressful, so why add money onto the list of extra worries. With these ten tips you will be able to enjoy being a new parent without having to worry about the added expenditures to your tight budget. You will love feeling a little bit more freedom with your child, as well as the financial freedom the savings can provide.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Video games are a huge part of the market today, but with the economy down it might be a bit stressful trying to keep up with the market. Gaming consoles are constantly upgrading and there seems to be a never ending supply of games that your kids have to have. Videogames don’t have to control your entire entertainment budget though. There are a few simple tricks that can keep your family playing without losing so much money. With these ten tips you will provide the family with a fun pass time while still being able to get out of the house and enjoy part of your entertainment budget on other things!

1. Buy Used
Buying a used game is easily one of the best ways to save money on your family’s gaming habits. There are so many stores offline and on that specialize in providing you with high quality games that have been used. Whether your looking for a game from quite some time ago or one that came out this year, chances are you’ll find it in a used store. The best thing about used games is most stores won’t even consider buying them unless they are lightly used, which means you’re practically getting a new game for a pretty low price. A lot of gamers who have money to spend on their hobby will buy the game as soon as it comes out, beat it and trade it in for the next big thing. This is a huge advantage to you because it means you won’t have to wait very long to get the newest releases. You can also buy consoles used. No matter what platform you prefer a used console can save you hundreds of dollars and will run just as well as a new one. This is also a great way to keep up with the constant advancement of the gaming world without losing a lot of your spending cash.

2. Sell Off/Trade Ins
The beauty of games being so popular is the fact that you can walk into so many different gaming stores and sell your items without a lot of hassle. This works great for people who are looking to buy different games with the money they earn from their old games. Many stores will even give you extra in store credit for games you turn in, so you can turn around and buy a game from them during the same visit. This is a great way to keep up with your hobby without having to spend extra money on your purchases. You can even do this consoles. A lot of people will upgrade and have an extra console lying around the house collecting dust. If you turn in this console you can get quite a bit of money that help you buy new games. Of course, you could always take the console in to help earn the money, or at least reduce some of the price, of the new console you’ve been wanting.

3. Patience
You’ve probably always heard that patience is a virtue. Well, when it comes to videogames you will quickly learn that nothing can be more true. When a new game comes out it is pretty expensive and can really wipe out your account faster than you think, especially if you have a household that needs more than one copy. Instead of spending hundreds on a brand new game try waiting a month or so. Not only will the price of the game go down when you buy it new, it will also be available to you used. You will be so surprised at how much you can actually save this way. Consoles are another item that you should really be patient with. Most of the time companies will release a new product for a few hundred more that actually has very few new features. Instead of going out and buying it right away wait until your current console breaks, or until they are getting ready to release a new console. Usually after six months to a year the prices drop significantly on the the console, especially if it is around the holiday season.

4. Rent
If you don’t like to hang on to games for very long then you might want to look into renting. There are many services available now that allow you to pay a monthly fee which gives you access to the latest games as well as some older names. Typically, you can keep the games as long as you want which will give you ample time to finish out the game and choose what game you will play next. Many of these services also include a movie section, so even if you don’t have time to play games for a certain period of time you can still enjoy renting some of the top movies. If monthly services aren’t really your style then you can also rent the games from other players. Many kiosk will provide you with the top videogames on the market, but watch out as they will charge you each day you have the game out.

5. Trade with Friends
Most people who play videogames also have friends that share the same hobby. This can be one of the biggest advantages when it comes to allowing you to play the top games. If you have a buddy you can trust then strike up a deal with them. If a large number of cool games come out at the same time the each of you can buy one of the games. Keep the game a week and then trade with your friend for the other game you wanted. You can keep trading off like this until one of you is tired of the games. You can also gather up a bunch of your older games to barter with a friend that might have something you want. Of course, one of the best things about having friends with the same interest is sharing the interest together. So, if you can afford a game and your friend can’t then let the friend come over and play with you. This can be reciprocated too, that way everyone gets to play the games they want without having to purchase every new release.

6. Free Online Games
One of the best things about the internet is you can find just about anything to entertain yourself. So, if your budget is a bit tighter than normal and you’re bored with the games you own, try looking online for something that will interest you. There are a lot of online sites dedicated to providing users with free to low cost games. In fact, you can find just about any kind of game online that will keep your entertained until your finances are looking a bit healthier. If you aren’t into committing money into online gaming then there is a wide selection of shockwave games and free hour long trials that are perfect for a bit of relaxation time after school or work. Plus, if you really fall in love with a game it typically won’t cost you over ten dollars.

7. Family Shopping
Your family can be pretty diverse, especially when it comes to the games they like to play. While one child might enjoy war games another might want to build cities. This difference can cost you a lot of money. So, when you decide to buy a videogame look around for games that the whole family will enjoy playing. There are some games that are designed to be primarily multi-player games which will keep your children occupied for hours. You can even choose game show inspired games that are not only perfect for kids, but make a fun weekend game night idea. If you have trouble picking a game that everyone will like then make the family sit down and have a compromise meeting on the game they choose. Some family members might not be entirely impressed with the choice, but when the budget is tight it will help you keep entertainment in the home for less.

8. Test Out Games
A lot of people will blindly buy games that they aren’t sure about just because of the hype surrounding them. If you aren’t sure about a game then try to test it out in a store before you decide to buy it. A lot of stores, particularly ones that specialize in gaming, will put most of the big name new releases out in a display area. This will allow you to test out the game without having to buy it. There might be a lock down on a few of the special features, but you will able to experience the game without having to give up the money to play. A lot of stores will even put a game into a tester for you if they think they might make a sale out of the deal. If you can’t find the game you’re looking to test in a store test area then try an arcade or ask a friend who owns the game to let you give it a try. A lot of the times you will find that its not really a game you want to keep playing. So, by taking some time out to test the game you might actually save yourself a good chunk of cash.

9. Follow Promotions
A lot of games will have some promotions that can save you money before they release. Simply putting $5 down to preorder a game can help you unlock a lot of extra features that could cost you quite a big to buy later on. Of course, there are other promotions that will allow you to save big on games that might not be doing too well in sales. Sometimes you hit a great two for one sale that can get you some newer games without charging you a lot cash. During the holiday season there are usually a lot more promotions available because businesses want things to fly off the shelves. One of the easiest things to do is wait around for an item to hit a promotion so you can enjoy the savings you deserve.

10. Take Care of the Equipment
Gaming equipment and games are expensive, which is why you should strive to take care of your gaming gear as much as possible. If you having a gaming console then it is important to make sure that the device is in a cool environment, especially when you are running it. You should also refrain from leaving your console on all night or for long periods of time. If you can put a reminder near the device to turn it off, this way you can keep your device running much longer. Unplugging the device can also help out quite a bit and will even allow you to save a little on your electricity bill. Wiping down your game disc after use and making sure to store them in a safe case will keep them working for longer without any glitches. Doing routine maintenance on your gear is one of the best ways to save some cash as it will prevent you from having to go out and buy new things.

With gaming being one of the biggest pass times in the country, especially among children it is important to try to save as much money as possible. With these ten tips you will be able to get a little more for your money while still enjoying the games you love. You might even get to spend a little extra time with your family doing the things you love thanks to these savings.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Indulging in a few drinks can be a great way to start out your weekend that is, of course, unless you are on a budget. Drinking can wipe out more of your bank account than you would expect, especially if you aren’t paying attention to how much you are spending. Everyone loves to unwind every now and then, but with the economy now it is often hard to find spare cash to buy luxury items like alcohol. With these ten tips you will be on your way to fun without having to worry about how much you’re spending on the bar tab.

1. Duty Free
Most states add on a state or local tax onto liquor to help stop people from buying. This can end up costing you a lot of money if you add up the extra charges at the end of the year. One of the best ways to purchase alcohol is through duty free vendors. Most of the vendors, however, are located on airplanes or in airports so you won’t get a chance to do this often, unless you are a frequent flier. Next time you go on vacation you might want to have a second looking at the duty free store or through the catalog offered to you during your flight. Purchasing alcohol during this time can keep you from over spending and will allow you to keep track of how much you’re drinking so you won’t have to spend more on alcohol during the year.

2. Bulk Shopping
Sometimes it might seem like bulk shopping is the answer to everything, but when it comes to shopping for alcohol it is an option you should always consider. When you buy things like wine and beer bulk stores are usually a great option. Many bulk department stores offer a large selection of popular beers for a fraction of what you would pay for them in a regular store. This will allow you to stock up for parties, or just keep some extra beer in the home so you don’t have to shop as often. Bulk stores are also known to sell larger alcohol bottles, so you can stock up on your harder liquors without having to triple the price. Wine is a great buy in bulk as well. There are many stores online that require you to buy a few bottles in order for your purchases to actually ship. This makes the cost of purchases better for you though as most companies lower shipping for larger orders.

3. Be Bar Savvy
Drinking at a bar typically isn’t a great way to save money, but if its your way to social there are a few tips that can help you save a lot. One of the easiest ways to save is to have a few drinks before you go to the bar. This will actually save on the amount of drinks you feel you need to buy while out. You can also make sure to hit the bar during happy hour, which will offer you drinks at a much lower price. If you plan on spending a lot of time at the bar then make sure to order water between drinks, this will slow you down and will keep you from ordering more than you should. You should also set a limit before you head to the bar. Let the bar tender know how many drinks you can have, or have a friend keep track for you. This will keep you from drinking too much and will help you not spend over a certain limit. Buying mixed drinks and specialty beers can cost you a lot too, when you go into a bar always make sure to ask what is on tap or drink from the specials menu.

4. Create Your Own
Brewing beer has become a huge trend due to the economy. For one set price anyone can brew the beer of their choice and enjoy their favorite type of beer for months. This is a great way to occupy your free time as well as keep your alcohol budget way down. Plus, brewing your own beer can help you meet new people, win money in competitions, and keep you and your buddies set for drinks for quite some time. If you love to have wine in the home then try to create your home special blend. This is a great way to experiment with your drink as well as create something you might want to share with others. If you are more of a mixed drink fan then try to keep away from kits as they charge you quite a bit of money for not a lot of drink. If you really want a mixed drink trying mixing it yourself. Anything you have left over from the night can be put away for another day.

5. Stay with Local and Off brand
What you buy can be a huge ally when it comes to spending. If you really want to go cheap trying buying off brand alcohol. Most alcohol can taste as good as if not better than the name brand and will cost you a lot less. Another great way is to shop local. This will allow you to support any local brew companies in your area as well as try something new that you might love. Boxed wine is another ally in the fight to save money on alcohol as you usually get a lot of wine for a small amount of money. If you’re not feeling comfortable about buying a beverage you’re unfamiliar with then try hosting a taste test party. Everyone can bring their own off brand or local beverage so that each person can try a wide selection of drinks and you can decide what you actually like.

6. Go Seasonal
With summer on its way most people are dreaming about the exciting drinks they’ll have at the beach. This should show buyers how important seasonal shopping is. We tend to associate many flavors with various seasons, this is because those flavors are in season. So, if you’re looking to save on cash shop for items that are actually in season. Most brew companies will put out special brews for each season that are usually at a great price in comparison to typical or off season brews. If you’re looking to make fresh mixed drinks for a party then head straight for the produce department to see what is in season. This will help you plan the other items you need without having to spend way too much.

7. Don’t Over Indulge
Drinking too much can be one of the biggest expenditures when it comes to alcohol. If you want to save some money then it might be a good idea to set a limit for yourself. This will help you to stay healthier while keeping a little bit of extra cash in your bank account. Make sure you know exactly what your body needs to have a little fun, when you’ve that level then cut yourself off. You might need help doing this, especially at first, so try asking your designated driver or a friend to help you refrain from buying extra drinks. Another way to do this is to simply decide how much you are going to spend and bring only cash with you.

8. Shop Around
Routines are easy to fall into when it comes to shopping for beverages, but shopping in one location can be a huge waste of money. A lot of stores will have special deals on many beverages and if you only keep to one location you will miss out on a lot sales that could save you big. The best thing you can do is plan ahead and look online or in sales papers so you can see the best deals available to you. Another big way to save is to stay away from gas stations. Most convenient stores or gas stations will offer you what seems to be a great price, but when you really look at the price you will find that its not as convenient as you originally thought.

9. Groupons/Coupons/Rebates
Although keeping an eye on sales is a great way to save, so is finding coupons that will help bring your sales items down even more. Many stores offer a lot of coupons on their websites that pertain to alcohol, all you have to do is find them. There are also a good number of rebates available, especially on larger containers of beer. Sometimes these coupons might ask you to buy other items as well, but the rebate will actually make the extra purchases worth it. Most of the time the other items will pertain to the alcohol of choice, such as fajita meat with a Mexican beer. There are also a lot of Groupons out there that could give you and your friends a great night on the town. Make sure you check out all of your local listings prior to planning a night out as sometimes you’ll come across a groupon that could offer your free drinks with a meal for each of your friends.

10. Free Drinks
An easy way to drink for less is to head to a club that offers free drinks to anyone who pays the cover charge. So, for a one time only fee you can have a great night dancing and chatting with friends and get all of the drinks you want without having to constantly pay a bartender or worry about over spending. Wine tastings are also a great way to get a few drinks without paying a fortune. You usually pay a one time fee for a wine tasting and you will receive an abundance of wines to taste. This is a great way to experiment with your pallet and find drinks that you really do enjoy without having to pay a huge fee for the drinks that you do have in the process. Wine tastings are a great way to spend time with a date or a group of friends and will keep you feel wonderful for less.

Alcohol can be a great way to relax if you’re careful with your spending. With these ten tips you will find that your weekend wind down can cost you less every time that you go out. You will love the savings as well as the fact that you will be able to go out and do more things because you aren’t spending as much on alcohol as you once were.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

When you meet that special someone you want to spend lots of money on them to make them happy. Of course, budget wise this isn’t always feasible, which is where a little financial savvy comes in handy. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get to know someone, in fact, there are many ways to impress a date that require little to money at all. With these ten tips you can get your dream date to fall head over heels for you without spending only $20. This dating technique will help you enjoy your dates more and will even keep you cool and relaxed since you won’t have to stress out about the waiter delivery a huge bill at the end of the night!

1. Picnics
Everyone knows how romantic picnics are, but when it comes to planning a date we always seem to overlook this simple option. If you’re looking for a cheap way to impress a date then this idea is one of the best. Before preparing for the date make sure you have enough items to pack finger foods. This can be simple items like sandwiches, carrot sticks and other items that cost you next to nothing at the grocery store. If you want to get really into the food try making little turnovers that will satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth without forcing you to spend a lot. If baking isn’t your best skill then try to find a small ice cream truck after you’ve finished your meal. As far as beverages are concerned, try brewing some fresh tea and putting it in a jug or canteen. If neither of you like tea then there are various different fruit punches that are cheap and easy to make, or you could just pack a few bottles of water. It will save you big if you try to find a park that doesn’t have an entry free. Also,try to find a nice place with a great view before you actually go on the date and be sure to check out the weather ahead of time too. You will actually be surprised at how well this plan works!

2. Party
If you’re just getting to know someone then you might not be ready to spend a lot of money on dating them. The best way to get to know them is to invite them to a party, especially one with mutual friends. A party is an easy way to meet up with someone and talk to them about the basics without having to sit down for an uncomfortable meal together. Parties can break the ice and show you how the person acts around other people. The best thing about taking a date to a party is you don’t have to spend anything on transportation, food, or drinks. The two of you are free enough to spend time together while still being able to bring other people into conversations. This technique is especially great for blind dates or someone you might just be nervous around in the beginning.

3. Active Date
A lot of people who are very health conscious will take their dates on an active date. This allows you to concentrate on hiking, biking, skating, or other activities that will keep you from feeling awkward during the date. This type of date is perfect for many people because it allows you to share one of your personal interest with someone you might want to spend a lot more time with in the future. Active dates are also great because they actually cost you next to nothing. If both parties own the equipment needed to perform the activity then you are looking at a free date. Try to find parks that will allow you to bike or hike for free, or skate next to a boardwalk. This will give you plenty of time to have fun and talk when you stop to cool down from the exercise. If you decide to go on this type of date then make sure to back a few waters and some inexpensive snacks so you can have a nice break with one another without feeling uncomfortable from dehydration or hunger. If you really know your hiking areas, try to find a nice romantic stopping place that provides you and your date with a nice view while you talk.

4. Virtual date
A virtual date might not be something a lot of people consider to be a real date, but with technology always changing this way of connecting with others is becoming more and more popular. A virtual date actually helps a lot of people drop their guard and spend time with people they are just starting to know. So, if you’re on a budget you might suggest meeting someone on your favorite chat device rather than in person. During your date you can share moments of your childhood, your interest and what your hopes and dream are. You don’t just have to talk though! The internet is filled with ways to share with others, so make sure to utilize the tools you have while you are chatting. For instance, you can share your favorite scenes from movies, music you love, or pieces of art that have inspired you throughout your life. You can even cook dinner together if your feeling ambitious. The communication options are endless and it will even help you figure out how to plan dates in the future. The best thing is, if you already have an internet connection and own a web cam and microphone, the date is absolutely free for you.

5. Volunteer together
Helping others and the planet can be a great way to bring people together. If you want to find a date that is absolutely free then sign you and your date up for a charity event. This can range between soup kitchen, cleaning up litter or building a home, depending on what the two of your are interest in. This type of date will allow the two of you to understand what kind of worker you are as well as give you plenty of time to figure out the finer details of one another. Most charity events will give you lots of time to chat as you work, so you might find things out about your date that you would have never learned from a dinner date. A lot of charity events will feed their workers, so that is one less thing for you to worry about when budgeting your money. You may find that volunteering opens up a new window for you and can help you find the confidence to ask for the second date!

6. Think Seasonal
When planning a date you should always consider what is going during the season. Its not always wise to plan an elaborate walk during the middle of winter, but taking advantage of a horse and carriage ride or ice skating on a pond can actually save you quite a bit of money in comparison to traditional dates. If you find yourself looking for date ideas during the autumn try searching for local corn mazes, pumpkin fields or hay rides. This will give you plenty of time to talk in a romantic setting and might even bring a few laughs to the table. If you really want to go out, take your date to a hunted house or carnival as tickets for these items tend to be low cost and lots of fun for everyone. Summer is one of the easiest times to choose date activities. Beaches and lakes are usually free and make great areas to have fun as well as relax. You can also have a water balloon fight at home, or take long walks in evening. Spring is one of the most romantic seasons of all and you will often find discounted prices on boat rides as well as trips to gardens. You can even pick your own bouquets during this seasons filled with life.

7. Skip Dinner
Dinner is always the most expensive meal when you eat out, especially when you grab appetizers and dessert. So, if you’re planning a date try to go any time before the dinner rush. A lot of people find it very romantic to go out for a nice breakfast or brunch. This allows you to start your day out together as well as find cheaper meals that can be just as filling as dinner. Breakfast and brunch often offer up more conversation topics as well such as what the other person plans to do during the day, or what they did the night before. Earlier meals often offer less crowded restaurants so you can have a quiet conversation without feeling rushed. Another option is to take your date to a cafe. Most cafes offer cheap meals that can sometimes rival the choices at restaurants. It doesn’t matter if you choose to go for breakfast or lunch as the wide selection of sandwiches, croissants, and sweet treats will always impress any date. Not to mention cafes provide you and your date with delicious coffee that can help power you through the day.

8. Matinees
Taking a date to the movies is one of the most popular choices, especially for first dates,. This can cost you a lot of money though if you choose the wrong time to go. A lot of theaters offer a matinee discount for their less popular afternoon times, which can definitely help you save a lot of money. Try to plan a date for mid to late afternoon so you can pay for the cheaper tickets. This will also allow you to plan for activities after the show that will allow you to get to know one another a bit more. Choosing a time after lunch can also help you save on the amount of snacks and drinks you need to buy at the theater. This in itself can save you a small fortune!

9. Cultural Events
Many cities offer days in which cultural events are cheaper, if not free. Make sure to check out your local papers to find out the dates and then plan your get together accordingly. Many museums, zoos and aquariums are a great way to spend some time with a date, without making the activity feel too forced. Many people find it a lot easier to open up to one another when they are viewing things that are seemingly beautiful. You can even share you feelings on the things that you are seeing, which will help draw the attention away from one another.

10. Homemade meal
There is nothing quite as romantic as a home cooked meal. Even if cooking isn’t your forte the effort alone says quite a bit. To make things even more interesting try to include your date in the task, so the two of you can spend some time talking and sharing memories while you prepare the meal. This is a really cheap way to impress a date and can really make you stand out. One of the best things about cooking at home is your don’t have to skip out on the dessert. Make sure you find out what your date’s favorite dessert is before hand and try to whip it up before the actual date. You will love how much fun this date actually is and you won’t have to worry about how much of a tip to leave.

Choosing the perfect date can be frustrating and sometimes even a little scary. With these ten tips you will be able to plan a fun day or night out without having to worry about the bill afterward. You will feel more free with your date and will even open up a little bit more than normal with the financial stress off of your shoulders.

Author: John Terris

This semester is rapidly coming to an end, which although exciting for kids everywhere, can be a total nightmare for some parents. Not that having the kids home everyday is bad, but finding ways to entertain them on a budget and can be pretty frustrating. Kids need stimulation during the summer months and without a few activities to keep their bodies and minds active you will be looking at several month of chaos. With these ten tips you will find simple ways to keep your children busy during the summer without having to worry about the money you’ll spend to do so.

1. Swimming
One of the best ways to keep cool during the summer is to hit the pool, however paying for pool entry or even buying your pool can cost you a fortune. If swimming is a must for your kids try to checking around town for pool passes. Many public pools will offer passes at the beginning of summer and will only cost you a fraction of what you would pay to visit the pool even once a week for the summer. If a pool passes isn’t an option for you try signing your children up for the YMCA. Many YMCAs offer free to low cost memberships for children and some will even open up their pool for free on certain days. Calling local hotels to find if they offer open or low cost pool times might also be to your benefit. This will help keep your kids safe as there is less of a crowd and will keep them cool during the warmer months. You might also look into swim less as many cities will offer them at colleges and high schools for free!

2. Movies
The movies are a great way to take a break from busy schedules and keep cool during the summer; however, movie prices can cost you quite a bit. The best to take in a movie is try to find a discounted theater in your area. Some places will offer movie tickets for $1, but the movies won’t be the newest on the market so be prepared to see something that already be available to purchase. During the summer some theaters will offer $1 movies on Wednesday mornings for children, which can make a great weekly outing for your family. A lot of libraries will host a movie once a week during the afternoon which is great for younger kids to meet up with their friends and enjoy a movie that is meant for them to enjoy and learn from. If you aren’t wanting to go out then host a movie day at your house. This will allows your kids to have their friends over, watch their favorite movies and enjoy homemade snacks.

3. Summer Programs
During summer break many schools and libraries will offer summer programs that are designed to keep your children’s minds working over the break. These programs are usually free and will allow you and your kids to sit down and schedule the classes they would like to take. A lot of these classes involve teaching your children different crafts or allowing them to perform science experiments designed to teach them how to ask questions and find solutions. One of the most popular programs is the reading for rewards program that most libraries offer. This will encourage your children to explore books during their vacation. The more your child reads the better the prizes he or she will be able to receive. Many schools even offer programs that help teach children how to play many sports that they don’t always get to play in school. Utilizing the school and library can take up a lot of your summer and can help your children ease into the school year.

4. Cooking
Most kids love to snack, which is why teaching them to cook is a great way to occupy some of the lazy summer hours. If you are worried about your child getting injured in the kitchen then start out slow, especially with younger children. Little kids will love making snacks that involve foods that resemble things they love, such as ants on a log. This snack is healthy and pretty simple for little one’s to create. You can also try foods like rice crispy treats, laying out cookie dough or snow cones. Older children, of course, would have more freedom and might even be advanced enough to use a pan to make foods like grilled cheeses or soup.

5. Crafts
One of the best ways to keep your kids busy during the summer is to craft with them. This will give you plenty of bonding time that you don’t normally get throughout the year. There are many crafts that can made with things you find around the house. For instance, you can take old magazines and cut images out to make a collage or you can roll pieces of magazines into beads for adorable magazine necklaces. There are also many other crafts that can be made that your children can actually play with. For instance, you can easily make a paper mache mask that will suit each child’s interest and will give you a fun project to make together. You can also build a kite with your children that will make a great activity to partake in on windy days. Crafting is also a great way to make gifts for friends and family for the holidays. Scrap booking, pipe cleaner art and macaroni art, make wonderful gifts for grandparents and other family members. The key to summer crafting is to have though and with it costing you little money you will be able to come up with some interesting ideas that keep you and your kids busy for hours.

6. Nature Hikes
It is important to get exercise during the summer, but the hot weather often keeps people locked up inside. If you’re looking for a great way to entertain your kids then you might try to plan a hike. It is best to schedule these activities in the morning or evening as it will be slightly cooler so you can stay out longer. Try to find a local trail that has some interesting sights for the kids. If you want you can even make a scavenger list that will keep your kids interested in the hike for much longer. You might even offer a prize to the child who finds the items first. Hiking is a great way to bring family’s together and can even encourage your child to take more of an interest in what is going on in the world they live in.

7. Science Projects
Like crafting science projects can be a great indoor or outdoor activity that will keep your children busy for hours. There are a wide selection of projects that you can do with items from your own home, so you won’t spend too much money. It is important to find age specific projects that will keep your children using their brains though. Perhaps, try building a working volcano that will both excite little kids and teach older children some chemistry basics. Another fun project is building your own rocket ship. You can even make a day out of this task where you take the rocket to be launched and the kids can have snacks while they watch. You can research many different projects online that can help keep your children entertained. This pass time will even help them out in school as they will continue to use their brains and will develop an interest in the exciting world of science.

8. Weekly Freebies
Most cities will provide you and your family with weekly freebies, but it is up to your find these little gems. A lot of museums, zoos and aquariums have open house days that will allow your family to discover many things without a charge. If you live in a city that is filled with culture then you might be in for a great summer that will open up your kids’ minds and will help them do better in school when they return in the autumn. If you can’t find any open houses then try to look around for discounts, coupons or memberships that won’t cost you a whole lot. You can also try to take your child to the beach, lake or river. Many of these places now cost a small fee, but some are still open to the public which means you will save big on a full day’s outing. There is always a wide abundance of parks in most cities, which make great places for your children to meet with friends, get some exercise and even have a nice picnic.

9. Summer Sports
Summertime is filled with sports that will keep your child active and having fun during the break. Most Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA and other city youth programs offer summer sports for kids at a low price. Your child will receive a uniform, placement on a team and trophy for less than you would pay for an evening at the movies. These activities will allow your child to have some fun with kids their age during the summer and will teach them how to work as a team, keep active and occasionally will place them in a leadership role. If your family is looking into taking the kids to a real sports event then look into the minor leagues. The tickets will be far less and you will still get an exciting game that won’t cost a fortune. If you want to save even more then take your children to their friends little league games, so they learn how to supportive of people, even if they don’t play for the same team.

10. Scheduling
One of the easiest ways to keep kids entertained during the summer is to schedule their day. It is lot harder for children to get bored when they have to keep up with a pre-made schedule. Most children thrive on structure, so make sure to schedule plenty of mental activities for your child to complete during the day. For instance, have them read before bedtime instead of watching a movie, or add in a puzzle or worksheet hour that will help keep them refreshed for school. Chores are another important aspect to add to the schedule. Children who do chores learn responsibility and the value of money sooner than children who do not, so a simple chore period can help your child immensely. You might even want to add in some spontaneous items that will surprise your child like a family game night or visit to the ice cream parlor. You can even allow your children to choose some of the activities to be added in during the week, such as a watergun fight or slumber party with friends. Make sure to add in some free time too, which will teach children how to entertain themselves.

Most children tend to be excited for summer break, but grow tired of it after the first few weeks of having nothing to do. This summer you can give your child the break of their dreams without having to worry about spending too much money. You will love how happy your kids are and won’t have to worry about them losing the information they gained during the school year due to inactivity. With these tips the entire family will find the summer to be a great period of relaxation and refreshment from the school year.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Summer is just around the corner which means its about time to start planning that yearly getaway. Instead of doing the same old vacation this year you might want to take on a seaside adventure when you book a cruise. A cruise is an amazing way to relax and let your troubles blow away in the fresh seaward breeze. Most people, though, are intimidated by the pricing of many cruise lines, so vow never to take the leap. However, cruise lines today are more than affordable for most and might even save you money on the typical vacation you plan every year. With these ten tips you will find that a cruise line can leave you feeling renewed without the credit card debt to prove that you had fun!

1. Book a Larger Vessel
Common mentality says that the bigger the ship is the more money its going to cost. This, of course, is incredibly false! One of the easiest ways to save money on a cruise is to choose a ship that is actually larger than others on the market. Larger vessels hold more people, so the ship can afford to lower the ticket price as they are booking a lot more people than the smaller cruises. The best thing is that these cruises offer the same amount of activities as the smaller ship, if not more. With a larger cruise you will be surrounded by more people, but you will also have the opportunity to fit in more activities for less money, meet new friends and have your children entered in exciting activities that will last with them all year round. Larger ships also have the ability to offer you better lodgings and tend to dock in some pretty exciting places!

2. Pack Light
Packing for a trip can be a huge struggle, especially if you aren’t sure what you will need to wear on the cruise. Like packing for a flight you will want to keep your luggage light. A lot of cruises will add on a luggage fee if you seem to have packed more than you need for the trip, so make sure you triple check your luggage and don’t bring anything you don’t actually need. In fact, it is wise to try to bring the family’s luggage in as few suitcases as possible. Yes, you will have to share space, but this way you have a lot less to keep track of while on board and your luggage will take up far less space in your room. There are also many bellboys that tend to look for expensive tips when they help you with your luggage. You don’t have to use this service and by bringing lighter luggage or luggage that rolls you won’t have to deal with employees pushing their services onto you.

3. Food
Before you go on your cruise you might want to look into purchasing a dinner package for your family. Dinner packages will give you access to at least, if not more, one meal day. This will allow you to allot more money to entertainment as you will know for sure that your family will automatically have food for the trip. Of course, there are also drinking packages available, but these are typically a bad idea. You would have to drink for most of the trip to get your money’s worth out of these deals, which most people don’t actually do. If you have to have a drink while aboard then try to drink light. Most cruises also allow you to bring your own wine aboard. There is a small fee if you decide to drink it in public, but if you drink it in your room then you can enjoy the wine for nothing extra.

4. Avoid Shops/Casinos
Cruise shops are one way that many people go broke while on board. Whether you’re picking up souvenirs for family and friends or just satisfying your need to shop, these shops can run your hundreds of dollars. Just like on any vacation the stores offer over priced goods so they can profit earn a better profit for the ship, so the best thing you can do is stay away. Many ships also offer an auction house that makes an exciting experience, but also cost a fortune if you actually decide to bid. Casinos are another don’t when it comes to the cruise. A lot of people will go in feeling pretty lucky and walk out having lost all of the vacations spending money. If you absolutely have to partake in this aspect of the cruise then make sure to allot money for these expenditures before you go aboard. When the money runs out then make sure to walk away. After all, there are so many different things you could be doing on a cruise and many of them will cost you nothing.

5. Avoid Internet and Phone Calls
While on board you might get a bit antsy to surf the net or call up a love one and tell them about the time you are having. This is typically a horrible idea when it comes to keeping a budget. Internet can run you up to $10 a day if you have to have, which can really add up if you’re on a cruise for an entire week or month. If you really have to get online then try getting all of your business taken care of on the first night you have it, after that try to unhook from the world for awhile. Phone calls are about the same if not more. Most cruises will have passengers leaving the country, so calling out from a cruise phone will add a huge price to your bill. Cell phones are always an option, but many cruises don’t get a signal and the one’s that do require you to have an international phone to use it. This also means that you will be paying international roaming fees. So, instead of talking to your loved ones while on the cruise try to build up your stories so you can have one exciting tale for them when you are land based again.

6. Entertainment Packages
You will be surprised by the abundance of things to do on a cruise, but don’t get on board thinking everything is going to be free. Before you leave for your cruise make sure your travel agent goes over the activities that are and are not free. This will give you a good idea of the amount of money you will need to bring with you. Many cruises do offer an entertainment package though, so if you are looking into spending a lot of time at the spa or doing other activities that don’t seem to be free then you might want to looking into the wide variety of entertainment packages you might want. You might even need to purchase a different package for each member of the family as there are many based around the needs of children, such as kid’s clubs or sports packages, as well as the older member of the family who might enjoy the spa or a night at the ball. The choice is yours, but an entertainment package might save you hundreds in the long run.

7. Photography
Everyone loves to have their memories captured in a photograph and the cruise line certainly knows it. This is why they hire photographers to walk around snapping photos of every happy family they see. Of course, having the photograph taken is free, but if you want to buy a copy of their work then you are looking at shelling out a lot of money. The best thing you can do on a cruise is to take your own photographs. You will actually be surprised at how many people on the cruise will actually cheerfully stop and take a photograph of your family. Of course, you might be asked to return the favor for them, but the task is free and you still get to keep your favorite memories. Try taking a lot of candid photos as well as these tend to show the best emotion and will leave your family thinking back fondly of their trip for years to come.

8. Go TransAtlantic
If you’re looking to get away for awhile then try a TransAtlantic cruise. These cruises tend to last a bit longer than your typical cruise, but you will definitely get your money’s worth. The cruise will take to many beautiful places on the Atlantic so you will not just get a cruise, but an exciting trip that will show you some of the most beautiful areas of the world. These cruises tend to have a lot of activities while its on the water, so the entire time you are on the ship you won’t get bored. A lot of people stay away from these cruises because of the lengthy period at sea, but if you are truly wanting to get away from you troubles for awhile then book one of these cruises. If you calculate the price per day that you are on the ship you notice the huge amount of savings your getting.

9. Insurance
Before you head out on your cruise make sure to check in with your insurance company to make sure that you are covered for your trip. A lot of insurance companies won’t give you coverage if you are in a foreign country which means you could end up paying some pretty hefty bills if you get hurt while on-board the ship or exploring the area around of your docking areas. If your insurance company doesn’t cover you then there is a wide selection of companies that offer temporary insurance to anyone that is looking to go abroad. Most of these companies won’t charge you too much and will give you the peace of mind that you can go abroad without having to worry about the worst case scenario.

10. Timing
Like most things in life, timing is everything when it comes to booking a cruise. Most people tend to take vacation time in the summer and winter months, so tickets for this time period jump up. If you book a cruise in the months between January and April then you will probably get a remarkable deal. This not only includes the cruise tickets, but the flight to get to the cruise and all of the packages you might want. Ticket prices also fall during hurricane season as many people don’t want to take the risk. If you choose to book during this period make sure to check out any weather predictions before hand, if it looks like its going to be a rough hurricane season then you might want to try for another time. Booking on the off season will mean a lot less people, so activities and dining halls will be more open for you and your family.

If you’re planning a cruise then you will obviously have a lot of choices as to how you spend your time on board. The best thing you can do is find a way to relax and with these ten tips money won’t have to be one more thing stressing you out. With all of your the scheduling and fun activities you will finally have the vacation of your dreams at a fraction of the cost.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Graduation is one of the biggest stages in a person’s life, whether you are finishing up school with a PhD, making that adult leap with a high school diploma, or joining the ranks of grade school with your kindergarten certificate. This day should certainly be about celebration more than a stressful occasion that makes you dwell on money. With these ten tips you will have your graduation planned out at half of the price of your original estimation. Not only will you be able to walk across the stage for less, but can celebrate in style with your loved ones who have seen you through your biggest struggles and helped you to earn your success.

1. Photos
Photographs play a huge role in the graduation tradition, especially for high school seniors. Many seniors tend to spend hundreds of dollars for photos that they could have done for much cheaper though. One way to take care of your senior photos is to ask a photo savvy friend to help you. If you have friends who love photography and have a nice camera then they might have a lot of fun taking your photos for you. Of course, if you don’t know anyone that is interested in photography try looking on message boards for college students that are looking to gain some experience for their portfolio. If you are into the whole staged photo production then go through your candid photos and find a few that you think define your time spent in high school. You will want to make sure they are good quality and appropriate for display, but these photos can add a fun twist to your graduation packet.

2.Invitations
Invitations are a big deal for any graduation and although most schools will offer you a packet to order invitation through them this is typically not the best deal. If you’ve already had graduation photographs taken then use these as a basis for your invitation. Upload the photos to an online department store that allows you to order invitations as bulk. You can add custom print to your favorite senior photos for a low cost invitations that your friends and family will want to hold onto for years. If you want to be in control of a lot of the design work try working up your own invitation in photoshop. You can include your favorite photos, quotes and graduation information for a unique invitation that screams you. For a really cheap option print the invitations yourself and mail or hand them out to everyone you want to come and support you. Of course, if you are feeling really frugal then trying finding an appropriate e-vite than gives out all the important details of your big day.

3. After Party
The after party is a great way for everyone to get together and relax after your big day, but it is also one of the biggest cost of the entire event. So, try to plan an after party that works well for you home, a loved one’s home or a park that is cheap to secure for the day. This will help you keep your cost down substantially while still allowing you to create a fun environment for anyone that wants to come congratulate you. When setting up for the party try to avoid buying items that are customized for your graduation year. Although you might think they look great, they can actually double your price on supplies and they end up in the garbage the same as the cheaper plates do. Instead of giving out party favors at the party distribute your graduation photos. This will ensure that everyone gets the copy they were meant to and saves you on shipping cost. If you really want to be frugal set out a jar for donations so your guest can help you pay for the party or help a bit with your college fund.

4. Decorations
You don’t have to go to extreme measures to decorate for your party either. There are many festive decorations that look amazing that can be homemade. For instance, you could have your friends and family sign a graduation banner for you. You can easily make the banner out of cheap paper and will make an amazing memento for you to keep after the party. You can also make great posterboard memory boards to place around the room. Pull out your favorite childhood photos as well as find a great set for a freshman, sophomore, junior and senior year poster board that everyone will love to comment on during the party.

5. Entertainment
Keeping your guest entertained can be one of the cheapest and easiest feats for the entire graduation period. For starters, create a slide show of your growth through school or string videos together to make a cool video that will leave your loved ones crying. If you want an entirely personal party have you friends and family make speeches, this will keep everyone laughing and crying for hours. One of the best things about graduation time is it usually encompasses warmer weather so you can send your guest outdoors to play with water guns and water balloons, as well as swim, dance compete and races and so much more. If you have a friend that is part of a band then ask them to play for you guest entertainment, which will gain them exposure and help you keep the music going for free at your party.

6. Food
Choosing food for the after party can be tough as most people tend to go the expensive way out and order items like pizza and snacks. Purchasing junk food for a party can run you a lot of money and the food rarely goes far, so try cooking food on your own. With the warmer weather it is always best to go light, so a wide variety of salads can actually keep your guest pretty pleased with the food. For a dessert menu try making several pies out of seasonal fruits like strawberries and apples, this will have everyone coming back for seconds while keeping your budget in check. If you want to do smaller courses then try cooking a few of your graduates favorite meals, but keep them low portion as kids will love trying sampler plates. The dinner can go really far if you ask your friends and family to make it a potluck, this way there is plenty of food to go around and the burden isn’t all on you. Jell-o is another cheap treat that most kids will love to eat. Try cutting different flavors into squares for a variety plate. As far as beverages go, make water available and serve items such as punch as they are easy to make for cheap!

7. Rewards
A lot of people end up spending lots of money on items that represent their success in school. A school ring is one of those items that cost you a fortune and you rarely end up wearing it past the first semester of college. Instead of purchasing a ring for yourself, or parents for your children, give you student something that they need. For instance, kids heading off to college will be in need of a laptop, clothes, bedding and other essential items that will make their first semester of college a bit more comfortable. If you have a student who has just graduated college try to aim for things that will help them in their career, such as new work clothing and desk items. If you want to give you student a memorable gift then make them a photo book that they can take with them and look at whenever they are feeling homesick. The ultimate gift, of course, is money for them to spend while at school or to help with their tuition and book fees. This alone can relax a student a bit more and will help then do better in their studies.

8. Thank You Notes
Thank you cards can run a lot of money in stores and if you plan on thanking everyone that attended your graduation and party as well as those that sent cards and gifts then you are looking at spending at least a hundred dollars on cards alone. Instead of shopping for cards have your child sit down and write a letter that includes what the future holds as well as thanking each and every person for attending and congratulating them. This task can be completed in one large typed out letter or your child can add a little custom note to each one. For a more personal touch add a graduation photo. If you aren’t looking to spend a lot of time on the thank you cards try looking online for a bulk service. This will allow you to get a card to everyone without having to sacrifice the personalization.

9. Robes and Attire
Your graduation robes can be pretty expensive, especially if you want to purchase a new set. Before doing this you should consider the options though, as most robes end up stuck in the back of a closet after graduation. If you can try renting the robes from the school or a nearby specialty shop. You can also look around online for a graduation store that sales the robes for cheap, but make sure that they suit your school’s specification. Of course, you will also want something nice to wear after you walk across the stage. Graduations are typically a formal occasion, so you if you really want to show off your style then try shopping in the prom clearance bins. Typically these suits and dresses are knocked down a lot in price so you can get a nice tux or dress for fairly cheap. You can also shop online at your favorite stores and try to find something you love in the sales bins. If you really want to go cheap though, try pulling out an outfit you haven’t worn in awhile from your already abundant wardrobe.

10. Framing
When you get your degree or diploma most schools tend to include a little flier that allows you to get your important document framed. These fliers tend to offer over priced services though and you will find if you shop around there are a lot better deal available. If you are looking give your diploma a fancy makeover then you might want to shop around online for stores that specialize in engraving. You might be able to find one that can actually give you a custom engraving for a few dollars at the most. There are also many hobby shops around that can give you amazing deals on custom matting or just mats that you can cut yourself. Finally, try using a frame you already own, or if you really want a new frame then shop the deals section of any department store and you will be surprised at the beautiful frames you might find.

Graduation is a huge accomplishment, so of course you want to celebrate it the right way. With these ten tips you will find a nice balance that still gives you the party your friends and family will remember for decades, while cutting down the huge budget for you. These tips can give you a stylish look, highlight your achievement and send you on to the next step of your life in the right way. Afterall, you’ve just completed a major portion of your life, so of course you deserve to end the stage in style without having the charges follow you to the next stage.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Laundry can be one of the most time consuming chores in your home. Unfortunately, if can also be one of the biggest drains on your bank account. Although there isn’t much you can do about the never ending supply of dirty clothes that seems to appear magically while you are sleeping each night, there is a lot you can do to save money on this chore. With these ten tips you will be on the right track to getting your chores done while still having extra money to spend on whatever you please at the end of the week. Whether your interest lies in making modern technology get the job done faster, or taking your laundry to a more natural level, with these ten tips your bank account will definitely be happy.

1. Detergent
I’m sure anyone who has stopped by a department store has noticed the vast about of laundry detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets that are available on. Sometimes, looking at all of these items can be overwhelming, so finding the right item at a great price might even take a bit of research and consideration. There are many generics on the market, but of course nothing will save you as much as not using detergent at all. Most of today’s modern washer’s use agitation to get your clothes clean, so soap is just an added expense that helps make the clothing smell nice. Of course, if you aren’t entirely sure about ditching the detergent then try making your own from household items. Vinegar is one of the best ways to kill any germs that might be on your clothing. You can also throw in some lemon juice for a nice fresh smell that will leave you satisfied. However, if losing the fresh scent is your only concern about getting rid of detergents then try buying a generic brand of dryer sheets. Your clothes will come out smelling just as fresh as they would with the detergent.

2. Cold Water
If you’re worried about your electric bill then you might want to start putting your clothes on a cold cycle. Warm water cycles actually take 90% off the energy of a washing machine, so by switching to cold cycles you’ll be saving quite a bit of money! Although it might seem odd to get clean anything in cold water, it is actually quite safe to wash your clothing in cold. Cold cycles also give your clothing a great soft feeling that is especially nice on bedding and children’s clothes. If you have items that are mixed in colors then have no fear as cold water won’t cause running between colors so your find decorative clothes with stay look great for much longer. One huge benefit to washing in cold is the ability it has to actually get rid of stains. Cold water actually prevents a stain from setting in cloth, so any stain that is soaked in cold can be removed, opposed to washing in warm which will help the stain settle right in. There are also many clothes that are designed to work best in cold water, so if you switch up your cycles you won’t have to wash these garments separately. If you’re still worried about washing in cold then check out a cold water detergent so you can put your mind to ease.

3. Re-wear Clothing
There are some items in out wardrobe that need to be washed every time they are worn, but there are also many items that can be worn multiple times without having to hit the washer. If you’re looking to save on money then try wearing items more than once, so you won’t have to do laundry as often. Jeans are one item that can be worn several time before actually needing to be washed. If your entire family wore their denim more than once think about how much laundry you won’t have to do. Jeans are great in the fact that they can be spotted cleaned if there is a mess, which means they be worn comfortably for longer. Also, reconsider using a new towel each day. Towels are heavy and tend to take up a lot of space, so use them multiple times and save on the amount you actually wash each week. You can do the same with thicker pants, hoodies and jackets which take up a lot of the laundry baskets space each week.

4. Don’t Over Do It
We all know how tedious doing laundry can be, so there is often times when we are slightly tempted to shove the last clothes into the washer no matter how full it looks. Doing this, however, can cause a lot of problems with the washer and can even cause you to be use more electricity and water. Many washers today monitor the amount of clothing in the machine so the machine will put out extra water to take care of the heavy load. Unfortunately, the load may never get clean because there isn’t enough space in the washer for the clothing to get agitation it needs to become clean. It is much easier to take it one load at a time so that you can ensure your clothing is finished the first time you run it through the washer, rather than having to pull out drenched clothing that will begin to smell before you can rerun them.

5. Drying
Getting your clothes is a huge part of the chore, but can be the most costly part as well. Unlike the washer dryers tend to rely largely on electricity, so your power bill will increase each time you use the dryer. One way to decrease the amount of electric you use is to keep an eye on your clothes. A lot of the time the dryer, especially older models, will keep running even when the clothes are dry. One simple way to cut down on cost is to check out the progress of your clothing every twenty minutes. If you are drying something like a thicker blanket then put it in the dryer for one cycle and pull it and place it somewhere else to dry. Of course, one way to completely cut down on the electricity from drying is to hang your clothes outdoors to dry. Many people prefer the fresh smell the clothes take on from being air dried. Of course, the weather doesn’t always permit this, so if you want to keep drying your clothes then you might invest in an adjustable cord that you can hang over your bathtub.

6. Adjust Water/Agitation Levels
Most waters will allow you to choose the size and amount of agitation for each load that you do. If you are looking to save as much money as possible then it is always best to lower the water levels. By lowering water levels you are still allowing your clothes to get clean, but are ensuring that your water bill will stay low. Raising agitation levels is the best way to counteract the lower water level. More agitation means that you will have cleaner clothes. It will also ensure that your clothes will have very little water still on them when it it time to dry the clothing. This will lower the amount of time the clothing needs to stay in the dryer, so you will save even more money then you ever expect.

7. Time to Upgrade
Anyone who doesn’t want to work around the laundry to save some money might consider spending a little money to save. There are many models on the market today that will actually save you money. For instance, most models now are designed to be energy efficient, which means that you can run your washer and dryer from sun up to sun down without actually using a whole lot of energy to do so. It is important to check out all of the benefits of the washer and dryer before you purchase though, as many might only help to lower cost on certain bills. If you are looking to save big then try to find one that is not only energy efficient, but also uses little water and detergent. These washers and dryers often wash your clothing in a fraction of the time of other machines and will ensure that they will earn their keep within the first year of having them.

8. Consider Time
Many people tend to throw a load of laundry in whenever the mood rises, but this can be one of the most expensive decisions when it comes to the bills. Many cities have certain peak hours that charges residents more money when they use energy during this time frame. So, it might be best to call up your electric company and find out when the peak hours are so you can work out a schedule around them. Most cities have peak hours that begin during the early afternoon and end around the time the sun goes down. So, it might be best to throw a load of laundry in before you take the kids to school, or to stay up a bit later at night so you can get your laundry finished at the lowest rate possible. You will definitely notice the difference when your next bill comes.

9. Consider the Little Things
The little things can tend to be the things that cost you the most in the long run. For instance, forgetting to check your lint filter can actually cause your dryer to use more power that it should, which in return caused you more money. Keeping a clean lint filter means your clothing will dry faster and the machine will run on a normal level. A lot of people also don’t pay attention to the amount of soap they use each time they wash. Using the measuring cup, or even less than the cup indicates, can help you keep your shopping bill down a lot. Powered soaps can be one of the hardest soaps to maintain, so create a small measuring device for it and you will certainly keep your savings to the max. Dryer sheets are another expenditure than can be cut down a lot. Most dryer sheets still maintain the smell after one use, so try putting the same sheet into more than one load of clothes. You can even use used ones to keep in your drawer so your clothes always smell fresh out of the dryer.

10. Purchase Wisely
Watching what you buy can be one of the easiest ways to save money. There are many products out there that play on convenience, so many people tend to buy them thinking they are also saving money. One such case is the energy efficient soap balls that have detergent and softener enclosed together. These cleaning balls may seem like the best buy, but you can actually buy laundry detergent that can do three to four times the amount of loads that these fabric balls can for the same exact price. Shopping in bulk can also save you a lot of money. Buying a large container of soap can get the job done for longer and can prevent you from having to restock any time soon. If you can, find a generic brand that you like the smell of, this will actually do quite a bit of good when it comes to saving on the budget.

Laundry can be a real downer in the home if you let it get to you. Apart from being never ending it can cost the home a lot of money, so change up the way you spend on it. With these ten tips you can get the most out of your money without having to sacrifice your fresh smelling laundry. You will love how relaxed laundry makes you feel after you take away the dollar signs.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Mother’s do everything they can to give you a great life, so when Mother’s Day rolls around each year it is hard to find the perfect gift to thank them for all that they do. This Mother’s Day try to find your mom a treat that will bring a smile to her face without having to bust your bank account. Most moms don’t care how much you spend on a gift, so if you’re looking for ways to save on a gift this year look no further than these simple tips. Your mom will have a beautiful day filled with your gratitude and you’ll be able to keep a bit of money in your savings account!

1. Homemade Cards
We all did the homemade card trick as children, which always made mom tear up a little. So, why did we ever stop? Mom’s love things that come from the heart and what says love more than skipping out on the pre-made card and stepping it up a notch with your home thoughts. If you love to paint, draw, make collages or anything artistic try to incorporate it into the card so that your mother can see that you put a lot of effort into her own custom piece of art. If you enjoy writing poetry then come up with a special message that your mom can cherish forever. Even if you don’t feel you have a way with words then try writing a small letter to your mom thanking her for what she has done for you. If you aren’t so artistically inclined then take the internet for your artwork. There are an abundance of poems, photographs, and paintings based around mothers and children that will make your card look one of a kind.

2. Do Some Cleaning
Mom’s tend to do a bit cleaning every single day of the year, which is why doing a bit of cleaning for you mom is the perfect gift. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been living on your own for a decade or still occupy your childhood bedroom, find a way to get your mom out of the house so you can do a bit of cleaning. Make sure to plan ahead on this one as you can really spice up mom’s day by sending her to a movie or having one of her friends or partner take her out for the day. Once she is gone start working on her most hated chore and work your way down the list. Even if mom comes home early and catches you in the act, try your hardest to get the job done despite her protest. Your mom will then get to enjoy a couple of days off her chores and you will have pleased her immensely, even if she protest!

3. Flowers
Many mother’s love getting a nice bouquet of flowers for their big day, but this does not mean that you have to go out and spend a small fortune on flowers that won’t last past the week. Many stores will offer you a discount on flowers that aren’t fresh, so you can have a beautiful bouquet for the day at a fraction of the cost if you shop wisely enough. If you really fall in love with a low price bouquet too many days prior to mother’s day then try freezing the bouquet. If all else fails you can also press the flowers for an amazing image that mom will want to frame. If you keep your own garden then present mom with a bouquet of homegrown flowers that will show her how your hard work in the garden has paid off. This is particularly great if you and your mom gardened together when you were a child, as it will show your mom how much she has taught you. Of course, if your mom is a big fan of gardening then you might want to buy her some bulbs or seeds that will help her improve her own garden. Most seeds and bulbs can be purchased for an incredibly low price so you can get an abundance for a small price.

4. Collaboration Video
Home videos are one way to see how much you’ve grown over time and all of the happy memories your spend together as a family. So, pull out the old videos from the shelf and make your mom a nice collaboration video of your favorite moments together. If you’re feeling particularly nice you might include some of the memories of your siblings, but of course that is optional! There is a lot you can do with old videos today thanks to an abundance of software options. Perhaps, you might spend some time converting VHS movies to digital format, so your mom can have an easy to use DVD that takes up less space. If you want to get fancy try pieces the scenes together for a smooth video that will be enjoyable to watch. You might even want to add some musical pieces that help set the mood for the videos you’re showing. This type of gift cost little to do and will definitely bring a tear to your mom’s eye.

5. Photo Gifts
Mom’s love to be surrounded by their family members, especially if they live far away. This is one reason why photograph gifts will be right up any mom’s alley. Try choosing a few of your mom’s favorite photographs of your family and ordering her a custom made calender, so she can look at a new photo each month. There are also many different stores that offer memory books for a very low price. Choose the pictures that will make your mom happy and watch as her face lights up with this exciting gift that she will love to show off to her friends. If you want to go a bit bigger choose your mom’s favorite family photo and have it printed on a large canvas or blanket. If you have kids of your own then take the family out to get a recent family photo and pass along a generous size photo to your mom. Your mom will certainly be pleased with your gift and will have something that reminds her of her family everyday of the year.

6. Make Her Dinner
Nothing says family time quite like a nice family dinner, but for your mom nothing will say love quite like her not cooking it. If you really want to give your mom a special gift then try to whip up her favorite meal and encourage the family to sit down at the table and spend time with one another. If you aren’t a fantastic cook then try to encourage the entire family to chip in and help. Your mom will feel honored for the effort and will love the dinner even if it taste terrible. If you really don’t want to cook then try ordering from some place nice, but make sure to get the meal to go so you can enjoy a peaceful dinner in the privacy of your home.

7. Plan an Event
Don’t settle for letting mom stay home on her big day. If you really want to treat her then try to plan an outing the two of you might like. For instance, take your mom to go antique store looking. Even if you decide not to buy anything you’ve still had fun spending time together. You could also try going to a pottery shop and choosing an inexpensive piece to paint while catching up on your girl talk. If you want to be really frugal than pack a lunch and find a nice area for a picnic. This one works great if you have kids and grandma will love spending time chatting with her grandkids and watching them play.

8. Shop Early
If you don’t want Mother’s Day to pass without getting your mom a special gift then try to shop early. There are many sales on popular mom jewelry and other items that mom will love after the day has passed. So, make sure to surf the web right after the day to grab a gift for next year’s celebration. You can also start shopping a few months in advance for old clearance jewelry that your mom might love. There are many sites that offer low cost gemstone jewelry that your mom would adore, it is just a matter of finding the right time to buy. An expert shopper knows to look for goodies all year, so they cut cost and please everyone they love.

9. Personalized Goodies
There are many items on the market that make giving mom an entirely original gift possible. Depending on your mom’s personality you can find her a beautiful mug with her name on it, or a nice engraved name plate for her office at work or home. Of course, there are many other creative ideas that you can make at home. For instance, try painting your mom a number one mom t-shirt that she can wear with price on her big day. Another fun idea would be to paint your mom a family tree and add photographs of your family. Or, gather all of the grandkids of the family together to create a large hand print canvas that will make the perfect centerpiece for mom’s dining area.

10. Talk to Her
Kids who live far from home often have the toughest time finding something perfect for mom. However, one of the best and cheapest gifts you can find for her is to give her a little time. Try setting up a Webcam date with your mom so she can see your face and the two of you can catch up with what is going on in one another’s lives. This is also a great way for grandma’s to get to spend some talk time with their beautiful grandchildren. If you don’t have the option to get on a webcam then simply give your mom a call and let her know you case. We all have busy lives so just taking some time out of your day to catch up with mom on her big day can be one of the most cherished gifts you can give her all year.

Mother’s Day can be one of the best days for your mom, so put in a little extra effort this year and make your mom’s day unforgettable. Mom’s can be easy to shop for you just have to put a little creativity into play to find the perfect gift for her. With these ten tips you will hopefully find the perfection combination of gifts to make your mom think back on this Mother’s Day for years to come.

Author: Chelsey McQuitty

Your kids love toys and you love your kids, so chances are at times you feel a bit overwhelmed by the toy wish list they tend to create. There are many ways to give your children the toys they want while still maintaining a tight budget. With these ten tips you can bring joy to you child’s face without having to stress out over rising toy prices or your child’s constantly changing interest. Now, you will be able to enjoy the time you spend playing with your child rather than considering the amount you need to spend on toys to make them happy. You might even teach your child the value of their possessions, so that in the future they will learn the value of work and how to maintain their goodies.

1. Look to Household Items
Most younger children are incredibly ease to please when it comes to toys. There are a lot of items you can find around that will keep your children entertained for hours. If you begin to notice your child is tiring of the toys they have in their room then try pulling out a few pots and pans and come wooden spoons. Show the child that these items make different noises and watch as your child explores the world of music at no cost to you. If you have recently ordered something online, or purchased a larger utility item then chances are you have a big box lying around the home doing absolutely nothing. Give the box to your children and watch as they turn it into an aircraft, race car, apartment or an idea all their own. An old tire and rope can also be a great way to get your child outdoors and exercising. Make sure the tire is securely tied to a tree and let your child enjoy some swing time. If the weather is hot find an old tarp and baby oil for a great slip and slide your kids will want to play on all of the time.

2. Used Saves
Although you might think twice about buying used toys most kids couldn’t care either way as long as they have the toy to play with. So, instead of spending full price for every toy your child wants try looking for the toy on online auction sites, or in the local classifieds. A lot of the time your child will find a new and exciting toy when you take them to yard sales or thrift stores. This will allow you to help out other people and charities as well as get your child interested in toys that aren’t commercialized. Most of the toys sold at these places and events tend to only cost you cents, so you can get a bit more for your child to play with. These places are also great for finding bigger toys, such as climb on toys or swing sets.

3. Shop Around
If you have to have that new toy then make sure you shop around. One of the easiest ways to do this is to take to the internet and looking on shopping sites for stores that will have the best deal. There are many websites that can give you a great deal, but the problem tends to be finding them. Make sure to ask your friends and family for any suggestions as well as research when you can. If you think you’ve found a great deal then try calling the store to double check the price. Some stores will even hold the product for you so you can ensure your child will get the toy that is desired. If you’re looking for a quick treat for your child then check out the clearance bin at just about any store that sells toys. A lot of the time there are hidden treasures that have been reduced greatly. Also, never forget to utilize your coupons, as they can save you big time.

4. Toys with Versatility
Choosing specific toys can also help cut down on the amount of money you spend on toys. Many toys such a LEGOs and dolls can be used in many different games, so your child will bore of these things less than they would other toys. LEGOS and other building blocks encourage your child to use their imagination to create things from their minds. This will open up your child to many different games from construction to racing and outer space. Dolls can also lead children to play house, daycare, school and dress up which will keep them busy for hours. Of course, buying your child items like crayons and paints can also keep them busy for longer and will help them express their creativity and moods. By choosing toys that don’t have a theme your child will be more interested in playing with the toys as they won’t go through fads that force them to want new items every time they favor a movie.

5. Hand-Me-Downs
Kids can outgrow toys just as fast as they can clothes, so why not put the unused toys up for your younger children to use? Younger kids tend to look up to their older siblings, so receiving toys that were once deemed cool by an older sibling can be like gold for many kids. This will help save you money as a lot of times kids are interested in the same genres of toys, so you are already covered for many of your kids future needs. You can do the same thing with relatives who have older or younger children. Keep track of the toys you have stored away and you can trade with family and friends who might have toys your child would be interested in.

6. Trade with Friends
Many kids fall in love with the toys their friends might have, which is why a trading date might be a great way to save you and child’s friend’s parents a lot of money. A lot of times parents tend to discourage their children from sharing with friends because it might cause a lot of hurt feelings or misunderstandings. However, allowing your children to trade toys in a monitored setting can teach them the value of their possessions as well as partnership. When you bring the children to the trading date make sure to make it clear that the trade is final, so the children will think twice over the things they choose to trade. Of course, if you think this might be a problem then allow the children to borrow one another’s toys for a week or so. This will allow your children to learn responsibility over other’s possessions and will allow you to see if your child will actually hold interest in a toy they are requesting you buy.

7. Hit the sales
Throughout the year there are many different sales that tend to occur around holidays. This is one of the best times to get out there and stock up on your children’s toys while they are on sale. Of course, you don’t have to give the toys to them right away, but rather put them away for a birthday, holiday or special treat. By shopping the sales you won’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on toys when the holiday season comes around. This will make your holidays less stressful and will ensure that your children will have the toys they want without you having to hit the busy holiday stores. If you can’t make the sales then try your hardest to clip coupons that will make a big difference in the final price. Sometimes you can even get lucky enough to get a 50% off coupon that makes getting that expensive toy a little less of a burden.

8. Promote Imagination
Encouraging your child to use their imagination during play with also help your child use creativity in the future. The imagination can be one of your child’s greatest toys as they can invite anything they would like to play. A simple stick can become a sword and a piece of paper a shield. As your child used his or her imagination more and more you will notice that they do not long for newer toys as much as they did before. By encouraging the use of imagination, and playing along with your child’s imagination, you will increase the way your child thinks out of the box. This will save you greatly on toys and will even give you a rewarding feeling as your child begin to explore his or her inner self.

9. Utilize Chores
Chores can be one of your best allies when it comes to the toy battle. If you make your child do chores to earn an allowance then the child will begin to learn what exactly it takes to earn an item. This will teach the child not to make frivolous decisions when it comes to buying things. The child will work for the money, or points, to get a certain item at the store. So, if you teach them to save their points then you will certainly make them rethink the toys they aren’t actually that interested in playing with. You child will then begin to ask for items that they actually find fascinating and will happily do the chores needed to earn the item. This is great for you when it comes to saving on toys, but is also great for child as it will teach responsibility for their actions and how to avoid buyer’s remorse.

10. Make Your Own Toys
If you’re looking for a way to bring the family together then try making your own toys a part of the family craft night. You can choose a great number of items that can be found around the home, in craft shops, or even pieces of wood to get your toy making hobby on the go. For younger children you might want to start out working with clay or simple items that can be glued onto things to make a crafty and unique toy. As the children ages you can begin making your own doll houses, sewing your own dolls and even whittling different crafts. For more ambitious wood craftsmen you might want to try building your own car. If you have the right tools you can add a CO2 cartridge to the back for a fast race car that will amaze you and you child. Making your own toys will help you keep your budget in line and might even give you an extra income if you and your child become skilled enough in the craft.

Toys are an important part of every child’s youth and makes them feel special and loved, so of course you want to give them what they desire. As you begin to follow these tips you will find that your child will become less demanding when it comes to toys and will come to appreciate the items he or she already has. This, in itself, will help you save more money than you thought you ever could while still allowing your child to feel happy and loved.