Happy New Year!

I wish you all a very happy new year. 2008 has been very tough for many people, including me.
I moved recently from California to Utah. I know, I know people always ask why. The truth is that California will always be my home in my heart and maybe I will get the opportunity to move back but it is very expensive there. My one bedroom apartment was going for $12oo a month. I just rented an apartment here for $650. The cost of living is lower here in general. Gas is $1.39 a gallon. A far cry from the $4.00 I was paying in LA. Groceries only seem to be slightly less and eating out actually seems to be a bit higher.

Recreation seems to be a bit less expensive, depending on what you do. I can rent ice skates and skate for hours for only $5. Also bowling is only $1.50 a game. You won't find that in the LA area. I haven't been to a movie yet but I believe they are about the same.

The adult classed are much less. There are several classes I would like to take and they are only about $35 for 10 weeks. Again, in LA they would have been around $75.

So while I don't suggest everybody move to save money, it looks like it may work for me!
I am enjoying the snow and look forward to the seasons. But I have a feeling it may get old fast!

Here's hoping that 2009 brings good health, happiness and many blessings to us all. Lisa

Medical Appointments

It's that time of year to make the most of your medical insurance. By now you have probably reached your deductible for the year. It starts all over again in January. So if you still need a flu shot, lab work, or your blood pressure checked, now is the time to make your appointment. The slots will fill up fast, as everyone else will be doing the same thing.

While it may be difficult to find the time during the holidays, it will serve your pocketbook well to find the time. Why pay more to get that "funny" spot checked on your face by waiting one more month? Need refills on prescriptions? Now is the time to get them. Most prescription plans start their deductibles over in January as well.

I just saved a bundle by going in for a mammogram. Something unusual was found and I ended up having two biopsies and then going to the hospital for surgery. Because I have already met my out of pocket for the year, it should cost me nothing. Luckily for me, all is well.

Here is hoping all is well with you too. Stay healthy in body, mind, and spirit, and in your pocketbook too!....Lisa

Weather Proofing

It's that time of year when we want to stay home, cozy and warm cuddling in front of a fire. Making your home weatherproof helps to lower heating costs. Have you noticed any drafts coming in around door or windows? Caulk them. Your local Home Depot or Lowe's will be happy to give you tips on how to do this. If you have storm windows put them on. Drafts coming under the door? Place extra towels around the bottom.

Flannel sheets on the bed help keep you warm and cozy. If you have an electric blanket, save money by only using it to warm the bed up before crawling in. Wear socks to bed, it's a quick way to warm up. Or better yet cuddle up. If you don't have a special someone a dog or cat will do!

If you have a large house, only heat the rooms you use the most and close off the others. Use your fireplace for warmth as well as entertainment.

For large families, keep a large pot of soup going on the back burner. Your family will appreciate coming in from the cold to something warm and tasty, whether it's after building a snowman, or coming home from school.

It's a great time to try different teas, coffees, hot ciders or hot chocolate.

To warm up take a hot bubble bath instead of a very long shower. Use lots of lotion as your skin tends to get drier in winter.

Also try keeping your thermostat lower and wearing a sweater.

With the predicted rising heating costs this year, look out for your elderly neighbors. Too many times they are without heat because they can't afford it. So notice who your neighbors are and look out for each other. Have a happy, safe and affordable winter. Lisa :)

Credit Cards

With the economy looming large in every body's mind, it only makes sense to save in any way that you can. I know that many, many people are in credit card debt. It is very easy to do. From what I hear on the news, people are going to find their credit limits cut and not many perks with cards from now on.

But for those of you who have learned self-control you can still make money from a credit card.

I do all the time. My card of choice is Discover where I earn 1%-5% cash back on all purchases.

I use my card for everything, groceries, gas, eating out, doctor bills, etc.

But, and this is very important, I pay it off in full every month. To make sure that is possible I use a check register. I put the amount I have allotted for that months bills at the top and each and every time I make a purchase I subtract it from that amount. That way I know I have the money to pay it off when it comes due. This takes some discipline. You must remember to subtract every purchase. Also treat the card as money. Subtracting from your allotment helps keep you on track because you know exactly how much money you have left at any given time.

I get back about $40 every few months. Credit card companys don't like people like me because thet don't make a penny off of me. They pay me instead ! There are many card offers out there. But again, I only advise this for the very disciplined as the whole point is to save money and not get into more trouble.

I'll be looking for as many money saving tips as I can, especially with our economy being what it is, so check back often. Happy savings, Lisa

Birthday Bonuses

Birthday's are another fun way to get freebies from restaurants and stores. I just celebrated mine, and no I will not tell my age! Let's just say old enough to learn a few savings tips but young enough to learn more!

When you are out and about, notice who has birthday clubs. I got on several mailing lists that I don't even recall signing up for. This year I received a Vicoria's Secret gift card for $10, a Mervyn's gift card for $10, a free entree at Sizzler's, a free hamburger at Red Robbins, and a free meal at Hometown Buffet. I also received discount cards from Hallmarks, Toyota service, and Bath and Body works. Not bad for just getting older! I even forgot to get my free car wash from a neighborhood business. My employer also gives a nice little bonus, two movie tickets and a $5 Starbucks gift certificate.

So start noticing which companies want to honor you (and keep your business), and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Happy Birthday to you whenever it is and many happy savings. Lisa:)

Redbox

I don't know about you, but I have been so busy watching the Olympics that I haven't had time to watch a movie. As you know I already suggested getting your dvds and videos free at your local library. If you aren't happy with their selection or are not lucky enough to live where there is a larger library that is well stocked, then there are still a couple of other options that are less expensive than going to your local Blockbuster or Hollywood Video store.

Many grocery stores and in some areas, McDonald's have a Redbox. This is a nice little vending machine that is for dvds. It only costs one dollar per dvd per day. Nice price, eh? Just remember to turn them back in on time. There are other brands besides Redbox so check around. When you first sign up with Redbox you get a couple of free rentals as well. You can check it out on redbox.com.

Also, if you watch a lot of movies you might want to check out Netflix. You pay a yearly fee and get to keep your movies out without late penalties. They are mailed right to your home and you put them back in the prepaid envelope and mail back when you are done. A little more money but well worth it in my case. Netflix can also be found at Netflix.com.

Wishing you many movie adventures, with money to spare. Lisa

Brown Bagging It

Okay, lets be real. Most people who bring their lunch to work really don't use brown bags anymore. I find people tend to use their plastic grocery store bags or have purchased a lunch cooler like I have.

It is much less expensive to plan ahead and not be tempted to eat out each day. I buy easy to pack items that I like and that are healthy. I'm vegetarian so sometimes I have to get creative or I get stuck in a rut. But lately I take string cheese, v-8 juice, low fat microwave popcorn, a fiber one bar, cherry tomatoes and fruit. It's all healthy, low fat and filling.

If you want to make sure you can stick with it, be sure to pack things that you will look forward to eating. Don't get in a boring peanut butter and jelly rut. Though that is rather tasty now and again! Make sure you get some fruits and veggies in there and a treat as well.

It is much less expensive than going out for lunch each day. And that means more money for your banks. They must be filling up by now.

It must not feel like a punishment or sacrifice or you know you won't do it. I give myself a treat every now and then by going to McDonalds and getting an ice cream cone. It is less than a dollar and only 3 points on Weight Watcher's. Can't beat that and it tastes soooo good on a hot summer day.

So get creative and start packing those lunches, and happy savings. Lisa

Freebies

It seems I have picked a very good time to give money saving tips. After all, the media says we are either heading for or are in a recession, depending who you listen to. It's a good thing we are already putting into practice money saving ideas. Sounds like we will definitly need them. So let's move on to another way to save.

One of my favorite things is to get free things that I like and will use. One way to do this is to join MyPoints.com. It costs nothing to join and all you have to do is click on the ads. Usually there are about 3 aday. Each click is worth 5 points. When you get a certain amount of points you then turn them in for gift cards. I am waiting for my $25 Subway card to arrive in the mail. How much your gift card is worth is based on how many points you earn. You can shop through my points on line as well to earn even more points.

I have had gift cards from Target, Starbucks, and now Subway. There are many to choose from. I am hoping to find another website similar to this. If any of you know of one I would love to hear about it. Meanwhile, happy clicking and may you enjoy your rewards soon. Happy Savings, Lisa :)

Your Local Library

Many of you may be wondering why I am writing about libraries on a blog about saving money. But do you really know what is inside a library? It is not a dusty building full of boring books. That is what many people think. I believe this is left over from days when you HAD to go to the library to research and study. Back when librarians were exremely strict and hushed you all the time. Well, things have changed. It is still respectful to keep your voice low as people will be studying, but wait until you see the changes!
Libraries are a wonderful place to go for FREE things. Did you know you can check out the newest dvd's, cd's, bestseller books, books on cd, use the internet, get magazines, find out about free entertainment in your city, get bus schedules or in some libraries, even check out artwork? This is just a partial list. Are you intrigued yet? I hope so.
I love to read, but rarely purchase a book. I don't have to. I have a library card. I keep my eye out for the latest best sellers or anything that looks good and then order it online. The same goes for dvd's and cd's. The sooner you know the release date the better to be on top of the waiting list. How much do you spend at video stores or for cable tv? You may find you can live without these by making use of library resources.
Do you dislike reading but like a good story? Why not try a book on cd? Pop it in your car cd player as you commute and it helps make road rage disappear. You can learn a new language, a new hobby, or hear a new story all while driving along. You may find you are looking forward to sitting in traffic so you can finish listening to a chapter!
Do you subscribe to magazines and then just toss them when you are done? Why not check them out from the library? Not only does it save you money, but you are not helping to not fill up our landfills as well.
The Library is also a wonderful place for children. The picture book selection is huge. You can find out what book is your child's favorite and then purchase it rather than just guess what they might like. They also have children's reading programs, art projects, entertainment and more. If your child feels at home in a library at an early age, hopefully when he or she is older they will keep on using it and feel comfortable to use it to study!
Have I mentioned I love coupons? LOL! Well, your library subscribes to many newspapers with coupon inserts. It can't hurt to ask if they will save them for you, or at least let you go though them. They usually throw this part of the paper out.
So come on, what's stopping you, check out your local library today and watch your savings continue to grow! Happy savings, Lisa:)

Banks

Now that you are well on your way to having extra money in your pockets, you may be wondering where to store it so you don't just run out and spend it again! Banks are a great option, whether it is a piggy bank or a financial institution, or both.

Let's start with piggy banks. Of course we have all seen the cute little ceramic pig. But banks come in many varities. Pick one that suits your personality. I use one that counts the coins digitally so I will not be tempted to take any of my savings out. Mine is exactly like the one above. It gives me satisfaction to put the coins in and watch the total grow. You want a bank that is not easy to open if you are the type who will be tempted to withdraw your money before meeting your goal.

Now , let's talk about financial institutions. Let's say your goal is to save $50 in a month from coupons, and sales. If you are just going to go out and squander it, there really was no point in saving it in the first place. You should set yourself a goal of perhaps getting to spend 1/2 or 1/3 of your savings for a special treat. The rest can go into opening a savings account. They will pay interest, and that again is FREE money. It's not much but over time does add up. When you get more advanced and want to invest you will have the money to do so. Each easy little step adds up to more money and bigger payoffs for you.

So, set a few goals. Is it that your savings stay in a piggy bank for a much needed vacation. Or, perhaps some goes in the piggy and some goes for a night out with your honey. Or maybe your goal is to put it all in a financial institution while you learn about investing. It's all up to you. Have fun and happy savings. Lisa

Shop the Sales

Now that you are successfully using your coupons, lets talk about shopping the sales. Honestly, it doesn't take much effort to find where the best prices are on any product. Where to start? How about your mailbox? How many times do you throw away all the "junk mail" without looking at it? Every week I get ads from my local grocery stores, restaurants, car washes, etc. Do you need all of them? Of course not. Just do a quick look through and toss out what you know you won't use.
Lets start with grocery ads, Look and see who is offering the best prices on items that you would normally buy. Do you have a coupon for it? Even better! Stock up when prices are low. Each store usually has their weekly specials. If it is an item you use, buy as many as they allow. Is it worth it to go to more than one store a week? Sure, if the savings are significant and you don't have to drive too far. Remember, you don't want to make it a hardship or you won't do it. Give yourself incentives. It can be immediate, such as stopping for a treat ( iced coffee for me) or the satisfaction you will feel as you drop the extra savings into your bank.
My dad used to tease me about my "general store". It is a cupboard where I store all my extra toothpaste, deodorant, toothbrushes, lotions etc. When a guest comes to stay I am prepared. Most of my extra items cost me less than $.50 or were free. All from using coupons and shopping sales. My "general store" is stocked with quality items. I don't just buy something because it is inexpensive. It has to be a brand I like.
Shopping sales means saving on small items and big ticket items as well. We will get into that another day. Just remember to save your receipts. You want to keep track of just how much you are saving, I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Happy shopping, Lisa

Coupons, Coupons, Coupons

Have I mentioned that I love coupons? I mean think about it. They are free to use, save you money and easy to come by. What more can you ask?? And if you use a grocery store where they double the coupons you will find yourself saving a good deal of money immediately. Don't we all like instant gratification? Of course we do.
Okay, how to start you might ask? First you will need to find a coupon holder. This can be as easy as using an envelope, or buying a coupon holder at the dollar store. Usually I think these are kind of "old lady" looking, so I prefer to make my own. If you like what you carry your coupons in, you are more likely to remember to use it. Personalize it and make it fun. I found the perfect size waterproof pouch, that is small enough to throw in a tote bag or large purse. I used index cards from the dollar store to divide it into sections with different headings, based on how my local grocery store is laid out. For instance, I have cards marked beverages, baby food, pet food, canned goods, dairy, frozen foods etc. I have pictures of family in mine, recipes I want to try, funny cartoons, and a small pair of scissors. I leave it in the car and it is always available to me when I make a quick dash to the store. Organization is the key.
Now that you have your holder start cutting coupons, They are in the Sunday papers, online (such as coupons.com), in magazines, or on products already purchased, You will start to find new sources all the time. Ask your friends and family if you can go through their Sunday paper inserts when they are done, as this is your best source. Many coupons are for a dollar and doubled means saving $2. Believe me, it adds up. Look for products that you already use, and it's a good way to try a brand that you are not familiar with if the savings are right.
Easy, so far? Of course it is. The fun part is to see the savings on the bottom of your weekly shopping receipt. It will usually show what you saved by buying products on sale (more on that later), and how much you saved by using coupons. It really is rewarding to see how much money can be saved by this simple technique that many people do not take advantage of.
My niece was very proud the first time she went shopping with coupons and saved more than she thought was possible. She posted the receipt on her refrigerator to show her husband and to remind herself of her accomplishment. She was quite pleased with herself, and found it to be easy and fun. Her goal each week is to save more than the week before. So it becomes more a game than a chore and there is more money in her pocket (actually her bank, but more on that later).
Attitude makes a huge difference in something being a chore or something being fun. So start having some fun and clip those coupons. So ladies, and gents start clipping your way to saving money. More to come and best of luck, Lisa

Pennies add up

I originally thought about doing this blog while helping my newly married nephew and his wife. I was trying to teach them the art of saving money while not giving up the things they felt they could not live without. They are 19 and 21 and have a one year old son, so as you can imagine money is tight.
Nobody likes to be put on a budget. In fact the very word budget scares people off. People immediately think of sacrificing, doing without, being denied of pleasure. Well, I have good news!! This does not have to be the case. Think of it more as a challenge, getting ahead, or being creative.
I will offer suggestions and it is up to you to use as many or as few as you want. If you even use one suggestion you will save a few pennies here and there. I would also love to hear what you do to save money as well. The more tips the better.
My goal is not to make you a millionaire. You need to learn investing for that. My goal is to teach you to save the pennies to invest!! So come back often and check out my site. Lets have some fun, meet some goals and save some money. Best of Luck, Lisa