Wise Bread (Frugal Living posts)

20+ Bargains at Save-a-Lot Grocery Stores

Myscha Theriault — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:24:08 +0000

Looking to take your bargain shopping efforts to the next level? Discount grocery stores can play a huge part in that plan. Offering staples, produce, and even some brand-name grocery items at significantly reduced prices, these chains can be a penny pincher’s paradise. One of the more prevalent discount grocery chains in my area is Save-a-Lot. It’s also one of my favorites. While you won’t find much there in the way of organic groceries, you will find numerous conventional food items for a song. For my money, this makes it one of my go-to places when I need to fill in with basic non-organic produce or pick up some quick menu items for a dinner party. Here are my favorite shopping deals from Save-a-Lot. (See also: Save on Groceries With Discount Grocery Stores)

1. Cocktail Bread

Cocktail bread is one of my all-time favorite party hacks. Already baked in a size suitable for appetizers and conveniently sliced for easy assembly, it can be a best friend to any hostess in a hurry. While I don’t have a problem dishing out the $3-$4 it normally costs at other grocery stores, I was seriously stoked to find the rye-flavored loaves for $1.89 during a recent Save-a-Lot visit. It makes a great base for a favorite party spread I make with canned salmon and works with other canapé recipes as well.

2. Mini Pizza Crusts

Remember those toaster-oven appetizers I recommended in my business tips article for bed and breakfast owners? Well, you can now prepare them even more affordably. During the same visit I discovered the cocktail bread, I also noticed multi-packs of personal-sized prepared pizza crust for roughly $3. Requiring only 5-8 minutes in the oven to heat the toppings properly, these make for a fun lunch or a simple elegant dinner when paired with a mixed green salad and your wine of choice. They are also great for trying out different pizza sauce ideas, since you can put several customized pies in the oven at once.

3. Pineapples

When this fruit is in season, it can still cost anywhere from $3-$5 at other grocery stores in my area. They’re always less than $2 at the nearest Save-a-Lot, leaving me to enjoy all of the pineapple recipes I want during the summer. One of my favorite simple ones is grilled pineapple steaks on the grill with an all-purpose Asian grilling sauce.

4. Bananas

Frequently as low as 33 cents per pound, and routinely less than 50 cents, I always stock up when I happened to be in the store. Banana recipes are flavorful, provide boatloads of potassium, and are extremely affordable for the average family.

5. Wine

While the selection is minimal, Save-a-Lot has started offering a modest wine selection with a few brands that we don’t mind stocking for a basic weekday dinner. I don’t do all of my wine shopping there by any means, but it’s been nice to have the option to pick up a basic bottle there instead of having to make an extra stop on family pasta night. They also have a few brands which are suitable for sangria.

6. Spices

With bargain brands like Badia available, it’s easy to stock up on things like garlic powder and ground cumin when my schedule’s too tight to drive down to the Pakistani market in the city. Not only are these seasonings helpful for basic soups and sauces, they also work well for putting together homemade bread mixes for a savory dinner side.

7. Turkey Ham

When it comes to saving money on meat, the Jenny-O turkey hams are one of my top tips for busy home cooks. Easily diced and sliced with no de-boning or cooking necessary, I’ve priced them at $2.50 at Save-a-Lot versus $4-$5 at most closely priced store. We’re not eating that much meat at our house anymore, but for those who are, these are great. You can whip up pasta salad, carbonara, and a number of other simple dishes on the fly.

8. Sofrito

For those who enjoy Latin-style cooking, the jars of sofrito in the ethnic cooking section are a steal. They are definitely an affordable convenience food that I’ve leaned on for savory soups and sauces. One of my favorite is an El Salvadoran soup made with those bags of mixed seafood, tomatoes, and a few vegetables.

9. Corn Tortilla Mix

If you want homemade with a little less hassle, then you may want to check out the bags of corn tortilla mix. Easily stored in an airtight pantry container or large canning jars, this mix is an affordable way to enjoy tortilla-based meals with extra-fresh flavor.

10. Peppers

With green peppers typically priced at two for a buck, whipping up your favorite Cuban food recipes is more affordable than ever. They’re also great for stir fry dishes, pizza toppings, and homemade spaghetti sauce in the crock pot.

11. Roma Tomatoes

These are one of my two favorite types of tomatoes, and I love the fact that Save-a-Lot has them for less than a buck per pound at various times during the year when they cost nearly double elsewhere. One easy way to use them when feeding a crowd is in Middle-East-inspired cocktail sandwiches made with bulk mozzarella. They also work well in spinach salad. Again, they’re not organic, but for a quick fill in on a busy week, it’s nice to be able to pick them up in the same plaza where I frequently run other errands.

12. Avocados

Avocados are one of several plant-based diet tricks that make transitioning to a reduced-dairy lifestyle easier. Full-flavored and healthy, they make a creamy addition to many meals you may already enjoy eating, such as tacos, sandwich wraps, and homemade guacamole. They are regularly priced at $1 each for the larger ones in season, and at other stores I have to wait for a sale to see that price. This makes it worth my while to stop there specifically when I’m on an avocado mission.

13. Sweet Potatoes

Always less than a dollar per pound and sometimes as low as 39 cents per pound, the jumbo sweet potatoes at Save-a-Lot make their way into my refrigerator produce drawer on a regular basis. They make an elegant and simple side dish when paired with roasted beets, and when I don’t feel like making veggie burgers, I can slice off large rounds to roast in the oven. Yes, they’re still just sweet potatoes, but the side next to the baking dish that’s been brushed with olive oil caramelizes nicely and provides the look of miniature patties on the plate when I’m serving other items that are more traditional for meat and potatoes dinner guests. Bonus? They cook more quickly that way.

14. Cilantro

It may not be on everybody’s list of favorite kitchen herbs, but it is extremely popular with a fair number of people. It’s also one of the easiest soup garnishes to prepare. Just snip into a bowl, and you’re good to go. While the large bunches are priced at 2 for $1 on a regular basis, I typically have to pay more than a dollar for just a single batch at my other favorite chain stores. The only place I can top this price is at Patel Brothers, which is in a location I can only manage to get to once every two or three months. So when I need a fresh batch of this herb and don’t want my grocery budget to take the hit, Save-a-Lot is where I shop for it.

15. Mangoes

The large mangoes are routinely priced at around a buck per mango, similar to the way they price the large avocados. This makes them extremely affordable to bring home and prepare things like mango sorbet, a grilled fruit medley, or one of my favorite black bean recipes, mango-black bean salsa. Since the store also carries cilantro, jalapenos, canned beans, limes, and other basic ingredients, the salsa can pretty much be whipped up with one-stop shopping. It pairs well with grilled fish, plain rice, or even grilled pork medallions if you’re so inclined.

16. Snacks

When it’s junk food you’re craving and you don’t want to spend much for it, Save-a-Lot has a decent snack selection that includes things like Fritos, cheese crackers, Doritos, and other guilty pleasures. The cracker selection also works well when planning a party with a variety of spreads and dips.

17. Cured Turkey Sausage

As I pointed out in my previous hurricane preparedness article, cured meats are a great way to remain prepared for both power and entertainment emergencies. They are shelf stable; easily sliced or chopped for sauces, pasta salads, and other delicious num-nums; and reasonably affordable, depending on where you purchase them. That’s why I was excited to see packages of short-linked, cured turkey sausage on a recent cruise through the Save-a-Lot aisles.

18. Cabbage

While cooking with cabbage is relatively inexpensive no matter where you buy it, I have noticed that it’s usually less than 50 cents per pound at my local Save-a-Lot store. So if you don’t want to wait for those March sales and aren’t planning to buy organic anyway, this is a great place to stock up on this particular produce item.

19. Ramen

The six-packs of ramen here are regularly priced at six for a dollar, a price I need to sale-watch for at my other favorite stores. So if ramen recipes are something you enjoy, then this might be your best bet if you have a location near where you live.

20. Meat and Dairy

I realize I’ve already listed a couple of other meat items above, but for those who indulge regularly in these types of food items, I feel they deserve their own category with regards to this particular article. The bargain meats, cheeses, and other dairy products at Save-a-Lot are a huge money saver for those whose favorite sandwich ideas include stacking ‘em high with protein and multiple cheesy flavors. Other meat items are extremely affordable there as well, including turkey breasts, chicken leg quarters, and prepared treats like meatballs, chicken tenders, and more.

21. Canned Goods

While we try to eat mostly fresh and frozen items when we can, the truth is it’s difficult to resist the convenience of canned items at least occasionally. The way I figure it, it’s at least cheaper than takeout or frozen pizza. So when push comes to shove I don’t mind using canned products for my favorite bean recipes or picking up a can of fruit for an easy meal enhancement. At this store, I routinely see canned goods priced at less than 60 cents each, making them an affordable time saver on a busy evening.

22. Mixes

Seasoned rice blends, dry pizza crust blend, and cake mixes are readily available for less than $2 each, making for simple side dishes, corn muffins, dump cakes, and other easy menu items when you need a break from the stove at the end of the week, yet still have a Sunday dinner to pull off. While I don’t recommend overloading your family meal plan with processed foods, there’s nothing wrong with a little help now and again in the form of prepared items.

OK Wise Bread readers, these are my favorite bargains at Save-a-Lot. Do you have a list of favorite things you like to pick up there? Or another favorite grocery chain that offers a selection of superior values?

Written by Myscha Theriault and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Eating Vegan on the Cheap

Myscha Theriault — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:24:13 +0000

Exploring a plant-centered lifestyle is popular these days, but with it comes the common concern of a cost increase for the household grocery budget. Now that I've been in a (mostly) vegan household for a little more than two years, I’ve learned a thing or two about going vegan on the cheap. Here are a handful of my top tips. (See also: 25 Delicious, Healthy, and Cheap Bean Recipes)

Select Seeds

When it comes to vegan protein, many people gravitate immediately towards nuts. While I love a good cashew-pepper stir fry as much as the next girl, stocking your pantry with even conventionally grown nuts can cost as much per pound as high-quality organic meat. If you’re looking to spend less, seeds are a safe bet. For example, sunflower seed kernels can be used to make spreads, seed butter, gluten-free baked goods, and more. I’ve also found that organic versions of popular seeds such as pumpkin, flax, sesame, and others actually cost less than conventional nuts as well. Bonus? Those with nut allergies can feel free to indulge.

Season With Liquid Smoke

This is one of the best-kept secrets of maintaining a successful plant-based diet. If you’re new to being vegan and are concerned about filling your flavor requirements affordably, liquid smoke is something you are going to want to purchase for your refrigerator. Available in a variety of flavors, it adds smoky goodness to any dish you want, making it more like the meat dishes you may have previously been used to. I use it in Middle Eastern eggplant dip, pea soup, and other dishes to add “meaty” flavor without the actual meat.

Stock Up on Beans and Legumes

In addition to the seed suggestion above, beans and other legumes and pulses pack a nutritional punch as well. For example, there are several split pea recipes that are very affordable and easy to make. And not all of them are soup based. Another often-overlooked vegan grocery item is lentils. There a number of varieties that can be used in pilafs, soups, vegan meatloaf, and more.

Go for Green Groceries

While organic groceries are great, what I’m talking about here are fresh grocery items that are actually green in color. They tend to be some of the highest-rated items on the nutrient density index and can be remarkably affordable. Organic romaine hearts go on sale all the time, making them a steal for salad fans. Other affordable ideas include incorporating some frozen broccoli recipes, roasting Brussels sprouts, and trying out baby spinach as an add-in for some of your favorite sandwiches and pasta dishes.

Try Toppings

Incorporating a few toppings is a great way to jazz up a meal. They don't have to be expensive, either. For instance, chopped scallions are one of my favorite soup garnishes for simple broths, tomato bisques, and old-fashioned potato soup. They dress things up, are nutritious, and can be prepared relatively quickly with a chef’s knife and cutting board. Another option for enhancing a meal affordably is to use creative salad add-ins. Bacos — believe it or not — are actually vegan. I love to use them on top of salads, on pizzas and even in tortilla wraps. Homemade croutons are another one of my favorite salad ingredients.

Choose Long-Lasting Produce Items

For those with crazy schedules, watching produce go bad due to lack of time can be disheartening. That’s why shopping for long-lasting veggies such as cabbage and onions can keep you on track financially while still keeping you stocked with vegetables. This might mean you eat fewer salads and enjoy winter squash more often, but in general you’ll have more flexibility with your groceries when work keeps you on the go.

Once you’ve done your research and test driven a few types of recipes to determine what’s right for you and your family, you’ll see that pulling off vegan on the cheap isn’t necessarily as difficult as you might have previously have thought. For those more experienced vegans reading, what are some areas of savings that might surprise the rest of us?

Written by Myscha Theriault and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Best Money Tips: Cheap Weight Loss Foods

Ashley Jacobs — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:13 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on cheap weight loss foods, ways to pay for college now, and how to have more money.

News & Events

Get Rich Slowly #moolah Tweetchat — Don't miss Get Rich Slowly's bi-weekly #moolah chat! This week they will be talking about ways to earn more money!

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

Written by Ashley Jacobs and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

How to Travel Full-Time for $17,000 a Year (or Less!)

Nora Dunn — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:00:13 +0000

For the last five years, I've been traveling the world full-time, and for less money than I've ever spent (and I'd wager less money than most people would spend) to live in one place.

My worldly possessions fit into one bag (just larger than carry-on size) and a backpack containing my laptop and computer gear. This small entourage (weighing less than 45 pounds in total) comes with me as I wander around the world, sometimes quickly, but mostly slowly. (See also: Housesit on Your Next Vacation)

In 2011 alone, I traversed 13 countries and over 45,360 miles. Sounds pretty expensive, huh?

What if I told you it wasn't? What if I told you that both 2010 (a similarly busy year of travel) and 2011 cost me just over $17,000 (including some major non-travel related purchases)? Would you believe me?

Believe it. (Here's proof, with a full breakdown of where I went and how much it cost: My Cost of Full-Time Travel in 2011).

How to Keep Your Travel Costs Low

Of course, I could travel for way more than $17,000/year. The sky is the limit for what you can spend on the road, from food and accommodation to flights, destinations, and tours. I could also travel for less than this, if I made different spending choices.

Here are a few of my secrets.

Don't Pay for Accommodations

In the entire year of 2011, I paid $173 for accommodation. And that expenditure was a function of a discounted stay at the Hilton in Stockholm as a luxurious “splash out.” The rest of the time, I had free accommodation in various forms, including...

Work-Trade/Volunteer

There are lots of creative opportunities to work in trade for your accommodation (and sometimes food) and enjoy a more immersive travel experience. Many of the sites that introduce you to these opportunities involve a monthly or yearly subscription, but in my experience it's well worth it. Here are some resources:

Hospitality Exchange

Got a few nights to kill at a given destination? Try a hospitality exchange, where locals who would like to host a traveler can put you up in a spare room or even on their couch. Good manners predicate you move on after a few days, and although it's a free stay, expect to provide a gift for your host and help out wherever you can. But there's also no better way to see how the locals live than to actually live with a local.

House/Pet-Sitting

After five years on the road, I've come to crave my personal space, as well as time to work on my location-independent career as a travel writer. So when other people hit the road to do some traveling of their own, I come into their homes and take care of the property, pets, gardens, and any other chores that require attention in their absence. I tend to the home fires for periods of time ranging from weeks to months, and I'll soon be enjoying my second three-month stint of house-sitting and dog-minding on the Caribbean island of Grenada, where I have my own beautiful free beach-front villa and use of two cars.

House Carers
The Caretaker Gazette (I've listed this twice because The Caretaker Gazette specializes in both volunteer and house-sitting opportunities).
Trusted Housesitters
Mind My House
Housesit World
Aussie House Sitters
House Sitters America

Crew on Sailboats

My most recent foray into free accommodation has come in the form of volunteering on sailboats. Every boat is different in what it requires, from capable sailors or people with boat-specific technical skills to simply being an extra set of hands to share chores and provide good company. I started out with absolutely no sailing experience, and I have met all sorts of people in the cruising community and been aboard three boats in the last month alone. This is a whole lifestyle and way of travel unto itself.

Another way to get free accommodation includes home exchanges; check out more information on home exchange resources and etiquette.

Don't Pay for Flights

When I have to fly (which I try to do as rarely as possible), my long-haul flights are in business class, and cost less than the price of an economy ticket. I do this through the creative use of frequent flyer miles. I started out (years before I became a full-time traveler) simply as a passive collector with my credit card before delving into the world of creative frequent flyer mile accumulation through various promotions (here's the first big promotion I took advantage of in 2009).

Now I'm hooked, and always on the hunt for a frequent flyer deal, often accumulating thousands of miles each month without actually flying, which is easy thanks to my Travel Hacking Cartel membership.

Sometimes it actually works out better to pay cash for a flight, especially if it's a domestic flight. If this is the case, here are some resources and tips to ensure you get the lowest price, even after you pay for your ticket.

Travel Slowly

The slower you travel, the less money you'll spend on transportation, interim accommodation (for example, between when you land in a new place and begin a house-sitting or volunteer gig), and even set-up expenses like buying groceries/staples or wear-and-tear on personal effects like luggage.

And the slower you travel, the more immersive your experience will be, and the more likely you will be to develop relationships with locals (who may not want to invest the time and effort getting to know somebody who is simply passing through) who can in turn deepen your travel experience and help you learn what life is like around the world.

Your Travel, Your Style

There's more to full-time travel than these three techniques to keep your costs low. I made purchases that weren't totally necessary, and I could have further reduced my expenses if I'd gone without. I also could have spent more money on any number of occasions. But for the most part I've found a groove and a personal style for my own full-time travels; one that leaves me wanting for nothing and spending how I wish on what's important to me. And all for less than I spend to live in one place.

I also have a career as a writer and travel blogger that lends itself well to my travels, creating a lifestyle that is a career, and vice versa.

Budgeting for travel is very different for everybody, as can be evidenced by this informal spending study: Taco Tuesday: The Inner Mechanics of Budgeting on Vacation.

How much do you think you would spend on full-time travel? Would you give it a shot?

Written by Nora Dunn and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Best Money Tips: How to Fly for Free

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:48:12 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on how to fly for free, tips to reduce your grocery budget, and how to save money on things you need.

News & Events

The Wealth Builder Carnival — Don't miss The Wealth Builder Carnival, featuring articles about building, preserving and keeping enough wealth for a comfortable retirement.

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

Written by Ashley Jacobs and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Affordable Flowers for Valentine's Day (or Any Day)

Andrea Karim — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:41:39 +0000

A lovely bouquet of flowers is one of the most common Valentine's Day expenditures. Flowers really are a luxury item — they aren't something that most people buy regularly. This is partly because floral arrangements are so expensive — even the less-than-perfect arrangements that you get from your local grocery store. If you plan on buying flowers for your significant other this Valentine's Day, there are ways to spend less and still get a beautiful bouquet. (See also: 14 Valentine's Desserts That Hit the Sweet Spot)

Avoid the Premade Arrangements

If you need to save some serious money this Valentine's Day, then you actually need to avoid the pre-made arrangements at your local grocery store (or online!). Florists are ready weeks ahead of time with pre-made floral arrangements for Valentine's Day, the cost of which can run the gamut from reasonable to bank-breaking. If you can afford a professional florist, by all means, splurge on a bouquet that will knock the socks off your lover. But if you really need to watch your wallet, don't buy the big bouquets that are specifically created for this Hallmark holiday. Nine times out of ten, the price is more than triple what it would be on any other holiday, and you end up paying for a lot of fill, like ferns and other greenery that may not be that attractive.

Instead, buy a bunch of flowers that isn't already arranged, and do the arranging yourself. Here's how.

Choose Underrated Flowers

Some flowers have been so misused over the years that people have an almost innate aversion to using them — the problem is that these flowers are some of the nicest and most affordable: alstroemeria and carnations.

"People have a knee-jerk reaction to alstros and carnations because of how they have been used in the past," says Miles Johnson, owner of Fiori Floral Design, Lavender & Vine Florists, and R. David Adams Flowers in Seattle. "But if they are used on their own, without other flowers, the effect can be striking. Pick up two bunches of alstroemeria, place in a vase with some lily grass, and you will have a beautiful arrangement that will last a long time."

Alstroemeria

Carnations have typically been seen as a cheap alternative to "real" flowers, like roses, but carnations have two very important qualities, besides the low price: scent and longevity.

Carnations in a Mason jar

"Carnations should almost never be used with other flowers," explains Johnson, "unless they are providing a particular pop of color or texture that only they can provide, such as a deep, dark purple in a pavé arrangement. Carnations look great massed together as a single flower in a bouquet. Cut the stems short and tuck them in together closely." Choose a shorter vase or jar to accentuate the compact feeling.

Other flowers that are often overlooked on Valentine's Day? Hydrangeas, which come in dazzling colors, last for a long time, and can stand alone in a vase or add fullness to a bigger bouquet.

Hydrangea photo courtesy of photofarmer

If your loved one enjoys the scent of flowers, then look no further than stargazer lilies. They can be more expensive than other bouquets (you might pay $12 for a sprig), but the heady, spicy scent is worth every penny. Buy two sprigs and skip the filler — keep the bouquet simple and fragrant.

Stargazer lily

While roses are very pretty, skip the long-stem red roses and choose a bunch of "spray roses" — they come in a variety of shades, with many dozens of blooms, and are often half the price of the Valentine's Day rose selections. Sure, the stems are shorter and the blooms are smaller, but they are also more interesting and varied than your standard bouquet rose.

Spray roses — $20 for over 100 blooms!

Select the Unexpected

Roses are such a symbol of Valentine's Day that they've pretty much become a cliche. But what if your significant other isn't into the norm? Look beyond the standard offerings and consider something more unusual.

Thistles come in lovely shades of green, blue, and purple, and are increasingly easy to find in floral departments at major grocery stores — a couple of sprigs shouldn't cost more than $11.

Purple thistles and dark purple carnations

Is your love a bit prickly? Get him or her a potted cactus instead of cut flowers. If your darling has a green thumb, then a beautiful orchid might be just the thing. Does your honey spend more time in the kitchen than in the garden? Buy bunches of organic herbs at your grocery store, tie together with twine, and place in a simple mason jar with a little water — a fragrant bouquet of edible herbs. A spray of eucalyptus might appeal more to those Earth-y types than regular flowers.

Seek Out Unique Vases

Never buy a vase at the same place you buy your flowers, unless you find an incredible steal. The vases sold at floral shops and grocery store floral departments are usually poorly made, incredibly expensive, or both. Instead, use a vase that you already have at home, or find a cool-looking alternative.

Miles Johnson recommends mason jars, milk glass vases, and unusually shaped vases like glass cubes. Check out vintage and thrift stores like Goodwill for old-fashioned and unusual glasses, vases, and teacups, or go to large discount retailers like Target and Walmart for more modern and exotic vessels.

How to Arrange a Bouquet

A beautiful bouquet can seem like a daunting project, but it's actually fairly simple. Just use the following tips:

Florists employ a bevy of tools to create their beautiful bouquets, but Miles Johnson says that beginners only need a sharp knife, floral tape, and some flower food. "Knives are always better for cutting flowers because they don't compress the capillaries the way clippers or scissors will, so the flowers will last longer," says Johnson. Floral tape can be replaced with Scotch tape in a pinch.
Fill your vase halfway with clean, cold water, and add the flower food (this should be provided to you when you buy your flowers — if not, ask for a packet or two). Mix until dissolved.
Remove any leaves that would be submersed in water — the leaves decay quickly and make the arrangement die faster.
Using the tape, create a grid across the top of the vase, so that stems can be inserted in the gaps in between. The grid allows you to position blooms in a symmetrical manner. It's also easier on the stems than using floral foam.

Bouquet Accessories

Although a simple cluster of one or two types of flowers is generally enough, if you are feeling creative, you can certainly bulk up an arrangement with a few floral accessories.

Pine Cones

Wrap wire around base of pine cone and create a wire "stem" so that the pine cone can be set securely among the flowers.

Glass Christmas Bulbs

Similar to the pine cone, create a "stem" using some wire and insert glass Christmas ornaments (gold or pink) among bright pink blooms.

Branches

Curly willow and blooming branches like witch hazel make beautiful additions to floral bouquets and also provide dimensional interest. You don't have to buy branches — you can get them from your own yard or neighborhood.

Paper Hearts

Well, it IS Valentine's Day, after all. Cut out several sets of paper hearts from whatever paper or spare material you have (newspaper makes some pretty hearts), and glue to both sides of the top of a wooden stir stick (the kind you use for coffee). Place throughout your bouquet.

Should You Buy Locally Grown Flowers?

Attempting to purchase flowers that are grown locally is admirable — it cuts down on your carbon footprint, because the majority of flowers available in the U.S. come from Central and South America. Those regions have hot weather and longer growing seasons, to say nothing of incredibly cheap labor. This makes it tough for U.S.-grown flowers to compete on price. Miles Johnson recommends buying local flowers in the late spring and summer, when the cost difference drops significantly.

If you really want to pull together a bouquet of locally grown flowers for Valentine's Day, your options are limited (unless you live in more tropical climes yourself). In some areas, tulips are an inexpensive option, as bulb flowers are the first to hit the market. They'll probably be grown in a hothouse, but they might not travel as far.

Are you a flower-arranging maniac? Have any tips on how to put together a great, inexpensive bouquet on Valentine's Day (or any day)? Tell us about it in the comments!

Written by Andrea Karim and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

10 Home DIY Projects You Can Do in One Day

Camilla Cheung — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:36:28 +0000

My husband and I are in the midst of a major home remodel, and we're faced with big tasks such as tiling new bathrooms, installing flooring, putting up new walls, and rerouting plumbing. Such challenging tasks can seem overwhelming, and I've found that doing a few easy one-day DIY projects gives me a sense of accomplishment. When I'm able to significantly improve my home in one day or less, I feel as if we're making progress, and that encourages me to stick it out for the long haul.

Even if you're not overhauling your entire home, some of these easy DIY fixes can freshen up and update your home with minimal effort. One of these projects can be a fun family activity for a Saturday, and everyone gets to enjoy the results. (See also: Upgrade Your Home Decor for Less)

1. Make No-Sew Curtains

Getting rid of old plastic blinds and installing fresh new curtains is a quick fix that makes your home so much cozier and up-to-date. You can easily make your own custom, no-sew curtains using fabric snapped up at a discount from a fabric store (check online for those 40-50% off ), iron-on hem tape, and clip-on curtain rings. Throw them up on your windows with a curtain rod from Target and you're good to go within an hour or two. YoungHouseLove has an excellent tutorial for homemade no-sew curtains.

2. Paint a Sign

Use an old piece of plywood or MDF board and cut it to your desired size. Prime it, and then use craft paint to DIY a simple sign to hang on your wall with the message of your choice, whether it's "Don't Forget to Flush" or something more poetic. Finish it off with a coat of polyacrylic to seal and protect your new work of art.

3. Paint Trim

Freshening up the trim around your house is a pretty simple project but will have a dramatic impact in making your home seem more up-to-date, clean, and fresh. Cover up that yellowing paint with a bright white, semi-gloss paint — just be sure to tape off the edges (or make sure you have a steady hand).

4. Spray Paint a Light Fixture

The Habitat for Humanity ReStore is brimming with old light fixtures just begging for a new finish. Buy an old chandelier or other light fixture for a few bucks, as well as a few cans of spray paint (try a dark brown oil-rubbed bronze finish for a transitional look, or a bright color for a punch of cheer). Wear a mask and apply the spray paint evenly in a well-ventilated area. Voila! You've got a brand-new light fixture that no one else will have. CentsationalGirl has an excellent FAQ for spray painting almost anything.

5. Re-Upholster a Stool

Some upholstery jobs can take days, and many require the attention of a professional. But recovering that old padded footstool you found at the thrift store? You can do that yourself pretty easily. Buy a piece of foam, some batting, and a piece of fabric at your local craft store. Cut the foam to fit, then use a nail gun to attach the batting and fabric. No nail gun? Try using cheap upholstery tacks instead, like in this quick upholstering project.

6. Back Bookshelves With Wallpaper

Spruce up a "blah" bookcase with some pretty patterned wallpaper. You can apply it with glue, or even with double-sided tape so you can take it down when you are ready for a new pattern. A vibrant color or pattern can make your books and curios "pop" and look like new again.

7. Sew (or No-Sew) Pillow Covers Made from Napkins

While my husband desperately tries to curb my accent pillow addiction, I just can't stop. A few brightly-colored, well-placed pillows cheer up any space instantly! These innovative pillow covers are made from colorful cloth napkins, a super-frugal and easy way to freshen up your living room couch. You can whip out the sewing machine to put them together, or use trusty old iron-on hem tape for a no-sew version.

8. Make a Compost Bin

A compost bin is a handy thing to have outside within easy access. Instead of buying a fancy version that can run into the hundreds of dollars, make your own with just a few hours of work. Compost bins have many designs, from open bins made from scrap wood and chicken wire to "tumbling" bins made from old garbage cans. Both are easy to DIY with plenty of tutorials on the web, such as this frugal garbage can tumbling compost bin.

9. Paint Your Front Door

Paint your front door a fun color to welcome guests to your home. Take the opportunity to fill any cracks or dents. If the previous paint is in bad condition, you may want to prime the door first. Then paint it with an exterior paint in red, yellow, turquoise, navy, or another high-impact color. Since the front door is one of the first things to greet guests, a fresh coat of paint makes a big difference. Even better, swap out the old cheap-looking builder-grade brass door handle for something more updated in oil-rubbed bronze or satin-nickel.

10. Plant a Flowerbed

Although we were deep into several other home improvement projects at the time, my husband and I took an afternoon off to plant a flowerbed in front of our home. We dug up the old weedy flowerbed, added some topsoil and compost, and planted a few inexpensive flowers and shrubs. The project took a couple of hours but we've been rewarded with colorful blooms that put a smile on my face every day.

What DIY project will you be tackling this weekend?

Written by Camilla Cheung and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Financial Tricks to Master for a Happier Life

David Ning — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:24:25 +0000

Chances are very good that it's not the money we are after, but to be happy. Yet, many of us mistakenly chase the elusive idea of "having more money" and we end up working endlessly while we sacrifice our happiness to reach this goal.

If you want a good motto to live by, it should be this: The journey IS the reward. Here are five things you can do this year to increase your happiness. (See also: Big List of Things to be Happy About)

Make Only One Goal

The start of the year also marks the favorite time to make new goals, but we often make so many that we end up not reaching any. There's no shame in making just one goal and meeting it. The satisfaction of a job well done is so fulfilling.

Aim to Improve a Tiny Bit

Many high earners will tell you that they aren't happy with their income. This is because they are already used to the amount of money that they are making. Everything is all relative. In order to feel happy, make improvements. And it doesn't even have to be related to making money, either.

Weight loss, family ties, time management, starting a budget, and many other goals will all make you happy as long as you are making progress. The bonus is that if you are always aiming to improve a tiny bit, it will help you start a routine faster because you will feel less overwhelmed by a completely new project.

Shrink Your To Do List

No one likes to have things piling up. Try to stop thinking and worrying about what you have to do and just do it. You will be much happier with fewer tasks on your to do list and more accomplishments under your belt..

Swap TV Time for Activities Out of Your Home

The average person spends about four hours in front of the TV daily. That's time you could be using to improve all facets of your life, time you could be exercising, and time you could be spending with your family. The No. 1 complaint most adults have is probably not having enough time, so why spend any time in front of the TV, gaining weight while you bleed your life away?

Indulge Often!

No matter how much you love seeing your net worth grow, frequent indulgences make us happier than socking money away and seeing a bigger account balance. The obvious problem is that we don't have unlimited funds, so why not trade some of your bigger expenditures for small indulgences?

Instead of a big car payment, why don't you go out for dinners more often? Instead of an expensive annual vacation, why don't you go on a mini-road trip every month? By spending frequently but with smaller amounts, you will find that you get much more satisfaction out of every dollar that you spend.

Written by David Ning and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Best Money Tips: Cheap Valentine's Day Ideas

Ashley Jacobs — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:00:23 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on cheap Valentine's Day ideas, mistakes people in debt make, and cheap ways to relieve stress.

News & Events

Carnival of Personal Finance #348: Hosted by Money Q&A — Don't miss the Carnival of Personal Fiannce, featuring some of the week’s most interesting and informative blogger-written articles within the broad spectrum of personal finance.

Best of Money Carnival #142: Hosted by No Debt MBA — Don't miss the Best of Money Carnival, featuring the ten best (in the opinion of the carnival host) money-related posts of the past two weeks.

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

Written by Ashley Jacobs and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

14 (Mostly) Frugal Valentine’s Day Recipes

Mikey Rox — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:24:31 +0000

If you haven't made your Valentine's Day dinner reservations by now, don't bother.

It's not worth it because: 1. there aren't any tables left at your favorite restaurant at this late date, and 2. why spend money on a romantic night out when you can have an even more romantic night in?

To get the private party started, here are 14 (relatively) inexpensive recipes you can make at home. You know what they say — the best way to one's heart is through the stomach. (See also: Valentine's Day on a Budget)

1. Valentine Pizza

Papa John's usually sells heart-shaped pizzas around Valentine's Day — and I'm sure there are other pie makers who do the same thing — but you don't have to order in when you've got this homemade recipe for Valentine pizza. The dough calls for fresh rosemary, which is a nice touch, and once it's made you shape three equal half-inch-thick portions into a heart shape. When the dough is ready, spread on the sauce sauce, sprinkle on the cheese, and add your favorite toppings. This recipe strangely calls for sliced zucchini — and that's fine if that's your thing — but I'm sticking with "normal" ingredients like pepperoni and fresh basil.

2. Pepper-Crusted Filet Mignon

There's no cut of steak that says "I Love You" quite like filet mignon, and this recipe for pepper-crusted filet mignon is way easy. Pick up two five- to six-ounce filets (about one-and-a-half inches thick) — or to save money, use small appetizer-sized filets that you can find at a Target with a fresh meats section. Season them with olive oil and coarse salt (like Kosher) and coarsely ground pepper; pat both seasonings into the steaks. Cook the filets on a small skillet over medium-high heat for three to five minutes per side for medium-rare. The recipe also includes a rich red wine sauce that's made with one cup of red wine, two tablespoons of cold butter, and coarse salt. Pair the meal with your favorite sides; I'd go for a baked potato and roasted green beans (but call the latter "haricot verts" at the table so you can up the ante on the fancy).

3. Risotto with Wild Mushrooms and Scallops

Tyler Florence knows how to cook, so if you want a romantic dinner for two, packed full of flavor, try his recipe for risotto with wild mushrooms and scallops. The list of ingredients looks long, but the prep time is only 10 minutes. It says the cooking time is about 35 minutes, most of which will be for the mushrooms and risotto; scallops have a short cooking time, about two minutes on each side. Some of the other ingredients include Pinot Grigio, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and fresh thyme. You can't go wrong with that. I know that scallops can be costly, but here are two things to remember when buying any kind of seafood:

You'll save money by not buying more than you need (if you don't need a whole pound, don't buy it).
If you buy the item frozen instead of fresh, the price per pound is usually lower by a few dollars.

4. Rock Lobster Tails with Citrus Butter

Looking to impress your dinner date? Show up to the table with lobster tails drenched in citrus butter. Another no-fuss meal to make, the recipe calls for four frozen rock lobster tails (to cut the cost in half, only buy two), about six to eight ounces each, then butterflied. Broil the tails about eight inches from the flame for approximately 15 minutes. While they're cooking, prepare the sauce with butter, fresh lemon juice, grated orange peel, salt, ground ginger, and paprika. Serve with lemon wedges and a couple side dishes. I'd recommend wild rice and honey-glazed baby carrots for this dish.

5. Pasta Puttanesca

It's easy to throw pasta and sauce together (which is always romantic thanks to "Lady and the Tramp"), but you can add a lot of flair for Valentine's Day. This recipe for pasta puttanesca includes lots of delicious ingredients for serious flavor, like carrots, olives, dried oregano and thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, anchovies, and fennel. (I love the taste of fennel — it adds that little something that makes you go hmm.) Don't forget the grated Parmesan cheese to top it all off. It's true love on a plate.

6. Steak with Brandy and Mustard Sauce

If you're short on time on Valentine's Day (hopefully because you're buying the roses so you can cover the bed in petals) try this recipe for steak with brandy and mustard sauce that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. The cut of steak is up to you — you can find affordable loin steak (a big cut so you can halve it at home) — and the sauce is made in a snap with common ingredients. Choose sides that don't take too long to make, like roasted tomatoes or steamed carrots.

7. Pork with Dried Apples and Prosciutto

Pork chops are one of the cheapest meats you can buy, so this recipe for pork with dried apples and prosciutto is cost-friendly from the start. You can buy dried apples at the store and save the leftovers for later (so you have a healthy snack at your fingertips). As for the prosciutto, if you find it too expensive, which it can be, swap it out for bacon; nobody but you will know the difference.

8. Marmalade Chicken

For couples that are eating healthy, this recipe for marmalade chicken is not only waist-conscious but wallet-conscious, too. With simple ingredients like chicken tenders, EVOO, orange marmalade, and orange zest, you'll serve up a tangy, citrusy meal that can be paired with accompaniments like broccoli rabe and mashed potatoes. Instant potatoes are just fine; jazz 'em up with garlic butter. I have a trick for that. Know those tiny garlic-butter tubs you get with your pizza sometimes? I save those and use them to flavor mashed potatoes, especially instant varieties.

9. Heart-Shaped Sandwiches

Not every couple is into spending an hour in the kitchen making dinner. So this idea for heart-shaped sandwiches might be perfect for those laidback lovers who prefer plain ol' ham and cheese to roasted pork loin and brie. Make whatever kind of sandwich you like then use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the sandwiches into festive shapes. If you're making a thick sandwich, you can cut the heart shape with a knife. Throw a side of chips on the plate, crack open a couple Cokes, and enjoy the Valentine's dinner that you really want.

10. Avocado and Strawberries with Honey Vinaigrette

If you're a light eater like my husband (he never finishes an entire meal because he picks throughout the day), this recipe for avocado and strawberries with a honey vinaigrette may be right up your alley. It's so simple, too. All you have to do is cut the avocado into wedges, slice the strawberries, prepare the dressing and season with salt and pepper. This also could work as a great Valentine's Day lunch at home.

11. Vegan Rustic Bread, Eggplant and Spinach Lasagna

Hey, vegetarians and vegans, I haven't forgotten you. This recipe for vegan lasagna comes courtesy of my good friend Brooke McLay (whose family I'm jealous of because they eat so well) and her blog Cheeky Kitchen. It's super cheap, too, with most of the ingredients already in your cabinet. You may have to run out for the bread (should be day-old), eggplant, crushed tomatoes, and spinach, but everything else should be on hand. Since this makes a lot of lasagna, perhaps this is the ideal for a couples' Valentine's dinner.

12. Portobello Mushroom Sauté

If you want to skip the usual steak and potatoes route, try this recipe for sautéed Portobello mushrooms. Slice the mushrooms and sautée them with onions in olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste and top with grated Parmesan and Asiago cheeses. This super-healthy meal would go great with a salad full of greens and other veggies.

13. Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

The Chinese-food lover in your life will be impressed with this homemade recipe for beef and broccoli lo mein. You can use stew meat in place of a higher priced beef so long as you let it tenderize, and you may have to pick up oyster sauce and fresh ginger, but you can probably get away with that one using the ground version in your pantry. It's a whole meal in one dish that automatically seems special.

14. Raspberry Cream Cupcakes

You didn't think I would forget about dessert, did you? This is one of my all-time favorite dessert recipes. From Giada De Laurentiis, this recipe cuts the work in half because it calls for a boxed cake mix souped up with extra ingredients like almond and vanilla extracts. The cupcakes are tasty by themselves, of course, but it's the homemade whipped cream filling folded with fresh, crushed raspberries that make this dessert to die for. Trust me.

Have a Valentine's recipe that you'd love to share? Let me know in the comments below.

Written by Mikey Rox and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

7 Frugal Myths Debunked

Kentin Waits — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:24:39 +0000

We frugal folks often get a bad rap. In the media, one of two things tends to happen. When the economy is bad, the media races to interview diehard frugal gurus to figure out just how they do it and peek behind the mysterious veil of living within your means. When economic times are brighter, frugality is marginalized and those same gurus are looked upon with a mixture of sympathy and disdain. I think both of these extremes are fueled by fundamental myths about what frugality really means. Let's set the record and debunk seven of the most common frugal myths:

1. People are frugal because they have no choice

Many folks are frugal because they have to be (and in this day and age, there are few among us who can afford not to be). For others, frugality is a choice — a method of successful living that's a response to understanding the intimate link between time, labor, money, and things. The frugal realize that every purchase we make represents time that's been (or will be) sold. Consequently, we tend to prioritize expenditures differently. (See also: The Enemies of Frugality)

2. "Frugal," "cheap," and "tightwad" are all synonyms

Some tightwads may be cheap and all tightwads are frugal, but not everyone who's frugal is a tightwad or cheap. Follow? To me, tightwad and cheap are terms of disparagement. They're meant to imply a personality flaw — a tendency to hate to spend money and when spending is unavoidable, to always choose the cheapest option. Frugal folks, on the other hand, are not so rigid. We seek out quality and we cut corners in certain categories so that we can indulge in others debt-free. Maybe a young couple chooses to live off a single salary so that one parent can stay home with a child. Maybe a single man takes his lunch to work every day to pay down his mortgage faster. Frugality is born from understanding priorities — from conscious calculation and from rational strategy.

3. Frugality is all about self-sacrifice and denial

Not true. There have been very few times in my own life when I've felt denied anything truly important because of my frugality. Maybe my wants have been suppressed, but more likely, they've been recalibrated. For me (and I have a hunch, for most frugal folks) the real denial would be the peace-of-mind lost from living beyond my means. I truly get a charge out of saving money and I enjoy the rich experience of (usually) being worry-free.

4. Frugal people pinch every penny and clip coupons all day

On the continuum of frugality, I fall somewhere in the moderate or moderate-to-extreme range. Still, I don't pinch every penny, clip coupons, reuse tin foil, or collect old soda cans along the highway. But that's just me. Everyone approaches frugality differently and employs different tactics and strategies for success. The experience of frugal living is varied and personal — we all have our own way of doing things.

5. Real frugality is impossible in this day and age

This is a tough one. On one hand, it's simple to see how frugality may have been easier two or three generations ago when people tended to live near extended family and lead more rural and self-sufficient lives. On the other hand, in a nation and age of excess, there are always frugal opportunities. Human ingenuity is less about the age in which we live and more about inspiration and motivation.

6. Frugal people aren't concerned about style or fashion

Wrong. Scratch those stereotypes of frugal folks strutting around in acid washed 'mom jeans' and garage sale huaraches. Great style has always been about classic cuts, a good fit, quality materials, and durable construction. All of the above can be found (albeit with a bit of patience) in thrift stores, on discount racks, and at garage sales. Frugal folks may not be trendy (who wants that anyway?), but many of us are spot-on with our style.

7. Frugality is too hard

This may not be a myth. Frugality is hard, especially in the beginning and especially if you're used to a life with few financial limits. But it gets easier. Over time, frugality becomes second-nature and it's the unreasonable spending and excess that become difficult. As the sugary-sweet high of consumerism begins to fade, it'll be replaced by the joy of living debt-free, living more simply, and with less stress.

We can all help fight misconceptions about frugality since we're all examples of stereotypes that don't fit in some way or another. Maybe the larger social trend of moderation is here to stay. If so, let's help shed the thinking that has marginalized thrift and popularized excess. We just may be better for it.

What myths and misconceptions about frugality have you encountered? What are people surprised to learn about your frugal ways?

Written by Kentin Waits and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Best Money Tips: Saving on Gas

Ashley Jacobs — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:00:23 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some awesome articles on saving on gas, figuring out extreme couponing, and why you should love credit cards.

News & Events

Wise Bread Tweetchat (#WBChat) — Don't miss our weekly #WBChat at 12pm PST! We will be giving away $200 in prizes thanks to our sponsor, SpringCoin!

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

Written by Ashley Jacobs and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

How to Select the Best Jeans for Your Money

Dealnews — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:24:22 +0000

It's awesome to score a pair of jeans for super cheap, but it's even more satisfying if you know that pair will last you for a long time. But how can you really know what the longevity of your jeans is before they actually get put into regular wardrobe rotation? The folks at Real Simple have some tips on how to choose the most valuable pair of jeans for your buck, and, to get you started, we've pulled some examples that aim for prolonged life while still spending as little as possible. (See also: 25 Things to Do With Old Jeans)

First, the site suggests sticking to darker denim, since "deeper shades are handled less, so they last twice as long." They also happen to be particularly flattering, as darker colors are slimmer and more versatile. For example, dark jeans can be paired with a button-down shirt and blazer more easily than light colors, and they look just as smart with a simple T-shirt and sneakers. These Levi's Men's 514 Slim Straight Atlantic Jeans fit the bill for color, and they feature a small zip compartment on the thigh that looks cool, even if it can't actually hold all that much before it starts to look like there's a growth on your leg. (That is to say, leave it empty.) Or, if you want to go really dark, try these Levi's Men's 501 Original Jeans in black instead.

Another way to choose denim that'll last is to pay attention to the materials. You likely wear jeans more than any other item of clothing, which means your denim is also taking a beating. According to Real Simple, opting for jeans that feature at least 2% spandex allows your trusted blues to stretch with you, instead of ripping after months of wear. Unfortunately, this appears to be a less popular material for men's jeans than it is for women's, but this of course makes sense; the tighter the jeans, the more likely they'll need the stretch. That said, we found these Gap Men's 1969 Super Skinny Fit Jeans with 2% spandex for the dudes, and the Express Women's Eva Boot Cut Curvy Fit Jeans for the ladies who want some stretch.

Obviously, we're no stranger to Real Simple's final tip, which is to look for deals and coupons online, then buy multiple pairs of a style that fits the above criteria. This is generally easier to do when you're already sure of the exact style that works for your body. For example, if the Levi's 514 is a perfect fit, you can set up a personalized email alert for Levi's coupons, and stock up whenever a discount comes around. Seeing as its the most-worn item in many people's wardrobe, you'll likely never regret having multiple pairs on hand.

Readers, what tips do you have for buying the best pair of jeans? Is there a particular brand or store that you've found to consistently offer high quality at inexpensive prices? Do you think spending more on denim translates into a longer life for your jeans? Sound off in the comment section below!

This is a guest post by Dealnews.

Scoring jeans for super cheap is great — but it's even better when they're long lasting. Here's how to score the most valuable pair of jeans for your buck.

Written by Dealnews and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Best Money Tips: Managing the Family Shopping Chore

Ashley Jacobs — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 11:00:25 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on managing the family shopping chore, financial benefits to being sick, and having a productivity routine.

Best Money Tips: Frugal Ways to Hire a Babysitter

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:48:20 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on frugal ways to hire a babysitter, how to spend a tax refund, and ways to get money fast.

News & Events

The Wealth Builder Carnival — Don't miss The Wealth Builder Carnival, featuring articles about building and preserving enough wealth for a comfortable retirement!

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

Written by Ashley Jacobs and published on Wise Bread. Read more articles from Wise Bread.

Wise Bread (Frugal Living posts)

20+ Bargains at Save-a-Lot Grocery Stores

1. Cocktail Bread

2. Mini Pizza Crusts

3. Pineapples

4. Bananas

5. Wine

6. Spices

7. Turkey Ham

8. Sofrito

9. Corn Tortilla Mix

10. Peppers

11. Roma Tomatoes

12. Avocados

13. Sweet Potatoes

14. Cilantro

15. Mangoes

16. Snacks

17. Cured Turkey Sausage

18. Cabbage

19. Ramen

20. Meat and Dairy

21. Canned Goods

22. Mixes

Eating Vegan on the Cheap

Select Seeds

Season With Liquid Smoke

Stock Up on Beans and Legumes

Go for Green Groceries

Try Toppings

Choose Long-Lasting Produce Items

Best Money Tips: Cheap Weight Loss Foods

Top 5 Articles

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How to Travel Full-Time for $17,000 a Year (or Less!)

How to Keep Your Travel Costs Low

Don't Pay for Accommodations

Don't Pay for Flights

Travel Slowly

Your Travel, Your Style

Best Money Tips: How to Fly for Free

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

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Affordable Flowers for Valentine's Day (or Any Day)

Avoid the Premade Arrangements

Choose Underrated Flowers

Select the Unexpected

Seek Out Unique Vases

How to Arrange a Bouquet

Bouquet Accessories

Should You Buy Locally Grown Flowers?

10 Home DIY Projects You Can Do in One Day

1. Make No-Sew Curtains

2. Paint a Sign

3. Paint Trim

4. Spray Paint a Light Fixture

5. Re-Upholster a Stool

6. Back Bookshelves With Wallpaper

7. Sew (or No-Sew) Pillow Covers Made from Napkins

8. Make a Compost Bin

9. Paint Your Front Door

10. Plant a Flowerbed

Financial Tricks to Master for a Happier Life

Make Only One Goal

Aim to Improve a Tiny Bit

Shrink Your To Do List

Swap TV Time for Activities Out of Your Home

Indulge Often!

Best Money Tips: Cheap Valentine's Day Ideas

Top 5 Articles

Other Essential Reading

News & Events

14 (Mostly) Frugal Valentine’s Day Recipes

1. Valentine Pizza

2. Pepper-Crusted Filet Mignon

3. Risotto with Wild Mushrooms and Scallops

4. Rock Lobster Tails with Citrus Butter

5. Pasta Puttanesca