If I don’t get this out soon…I won’t be able to claim a monthly newsletter of ideas. Continuing from last month…here are some ideas to help friends who have a goal to get their finances into better shape and/or save a little money in 2006. Help me help others. Email me some of your websites and saving tips so I can share in future newsletters! Let’s encourage each other!
WEBSITES
Check out the following 2 websites. They’re full of tips and savings ideas! Pick a couple of ideas and incorporate them into your life. Enjoy the results!
1-www.debtproofliving.com
2-www.stretcher.com
ANNUAL GOAL
Working on your goals? I’m already working on my goal to save money this year. As our vehicles are aging, I called our auto insurer and changed our coverage. This has resulted in nearly a $140/year saving. Hoping that our cars last another 3-5 years, this savings will equal at least one car payment! Consider changing your deductibles and remove coverage you no longer need with older vehicles. Take the time to do this! See if you can find creative ways to save at least $500-$1,000 this year! Share with me ways you’re saving!
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Just a few savings ideas for those of us with children who experience the joy of paying bucks for parties. When filling goody bags, consider perishable items, such as the snack-size packages of crackers, Pepperidge Farm goldfish (very inexpensive at the Pepperidge Farm Thrift store), popcorn, and juice boxes. As Spring draws near, many grocery stores feature juice boxes (and kids LOVE them). My favorite are Minute Maid juice boxes because they’re 100% juice! When you fill goody bags with snack foods, this means less toys for parents to later pick-up. Lastly, snacks can either be immediately consumed or even used the next week for snacking (even carrying to school for snacks). By the way, juice boxes are a bit of a splurge…but I’d rather give those than a dozen toys that wind up on the van floor!
While I’ll write more on b-day parties in the future, let me encourage you to not be afraid to have simple parties. They worked great for us years ago…they’ll be great for your children. Invite a few friends over for cake and playtime. Plan a few games, and let your children enjoy the experience of being with friends without you paying big bucks for entertainment. Now, if you want to rent a venue or your family has decided to spend more on parties— great! Go for it! But, if you’re looking for ways to save, this might be one opportunity to curb the spending!
February Shopping
Here are some deals to consider if you must shop!
$5 and Below: Northern Virginia friends, check out a store on Route 1 in Alexandria called $5 and Below. I thank my friend Kelley for introducing me to this bargain haven. Nothing’s over $5! I bought a bunch of Leggo sets and art kits for birthday gifts. The store sells all kinds of items…more than toys. It is located in the newly renovated shopping center with Michael’s and Shoppers Food Warehouse.—near Wal-Mart on Rt. 1.
Consignment and Garage Sales: With Spring near, this means consignment and garage sales are near. Clean out your kids’ closets and consign to make a few dollars. And as you shop, think about giving your children Easter baskets with books or CDs from sales. Buy birthday and Christmas gifts at sales! Most of us don’t mind used.
Aldi’s: If your city has an Aldi’s supermarket, you need to experience Aldi’s. They do not accept credit cards; thus, bring your debit card or pay cash. Dozens of deals! We save huge amounts of money buying food at Aldi’s! Go to www.aldi.com for your nearest location.
Books: Friends in Northern VA, my church periodically has a cart of free books out in the hallway. The church periodically updates the library. To make room for new books, the church library offers free books to members/visitors. If you are seeking a place to worship, check out www.immanuelbible.net and visit us one Sunday. Take home some free books to enjoy and even pass along to others! Here’s a good way to fill your Easter basket fast and free! Maybe your local church has the same opportunity?! Suggest the idea to your church library! And if you have books you are no longer reading, consider donating them to church, charity or to a friend! I’m convinced we could all save a bit if we share what we no longer use!
Don’t forget you can always use Valentine and Easter toys/gifts that you purchase half price after the holidays! They’re great for using the following year or in a child’s birthday party goody bag! I bought some items at $0.50/each that I play to use as rewards for good behavior this year.
****REMINDER—- I am available to speak on the topic of frugal living, budgeting, personal finances, etc. Let me know if you have a church or civic group that’s interested! I can also offer you and your friends a personalized seminar on the topic of frugal living and budgeting.
I’ve also written my first book, which is a devotional for the grieving. I’m humbled to share my story about losing my dad and the grief journey that followed. I am hoping I can help others who are hurting. Let me know if you would be interested in a copy (or I can speak to groups about the subject of grieving). My book is entitled Face of Courage and a copy can be yours for $10. If you know someone who is hurting, encourage them.
Joy to you!
Michele Buschman
“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” Philippians 4:12-13.