Once again, we’re going to start this week off with a disclaimer. Since it is Thanksgiving week, I really want to be able to spend time with family. I have some time off school, which is really exciting, but I want to go hang out with my grandma.
But there is good news. I’m not going to stop posting! And since many of you have reacted positively to all the videos I used last week as an experiment, we’re going to do that again this week!
So, once again, this week is going to be a little bit shorter in the text department, but have more videos to add! Oh, and by the way, this week’s theme is on decorating. Interpret the theme however you want… it could be decorating for the holidays or just in general. I’m going to try to add in a little bit of both.
Well, for starters, decorating can be done with very little money and sometimes none at all. I’m terrified of those decorating shows that spend $40,000 on a room when I know people that have spend that on their college education. Ouch.
Here are some ideas you can use to start off – some ways to spend no money on almost every room in the house and an apartment living room makeover!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Saturday, November 21, 2009
DIY Saturday: Magazine Holders
Happy Saturday! Every weekend, I find some way to save money on something that can be given as gift or something to be used around the house. Everything that I find is super simple and super inexpensive. In fact, any one can do it. That’s why I call it Do-It-Yourself Saturday! You could do these crafts after reading the post and you would need no extra training, unless you don’t know how to use scissors.
This week, we’re talking about storage. Simple storage, like something to put on a desk or a photo box. There are so many different ways to make them and decorate them, it’s almost countless. So we’re going to keep it simple, just like the idea.
For storage boxes, it can be as simple as putting fabric around an old shoe box. Or using wrapping paper on a box to keep ornaments in. Here’s a great place to go to learn to make some easy ones. But if you don’t want to trouble of clicking through two sites, just go here. Good ole eHow.
Secondly, if you’re a packrat like some other people I know, you might have a bunch of magazines sitting around. There is a ridiculously easy way to make magazine holders that will cost you less than 50 cents. Take a cereal box, cut it at an angle. Voila! Instant.
However, if you need the pictures, you can go here, which gives you pictures on every step of the way. Not that’s there’s many steps. And, in fact, depending on what type of box you use, this same idea can be used for more than just magazines. Maybe some super simple bookends or something.
However, if you need more than pictures, click the little play button on this video. It’s a really cool tutorial. Super easy.
This week, we’re talking about storage. Simple storage, like something to put on a desk or a photo box. There are so many different ways to make them and decorate them, it’s almost countless. So we’re going to keep it simple, just like the idea.
For storage boxes, it can be as simple as putting fabric around an old shoe box. Or using wrapping paper on a box to keep ornaments in. Here’s a great place to go to learn to make some easy ones. But if you don’t want to trouble of clicking through two sites, just go here. Good ole eHow.
Secondly, if you’re a packrat like some other people I know, you might have a bunch of magazines sitting around. There is a ridiculously easy way to make magazine holders that will cost you less than 50 cents. Take a cereal box, cut it at an angle. Voila! Instant.
However, if you need the pictures, you can go here, which gives you pictures on every step of the way. Not that’s there’s many steps. And, in fact, depending on what type of box you use, this same idea can be used for more than just magazines. Maybe some super simple bookends or something.
However, if you need more than pictures, click the little play button on this video. It’s a really cool tutorial. Super easy.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Weekend Wind-Down: Cooking and Leftovers
Happy Friday! We’ve made it through the week and through the final food theme! Next week, we’ll be back with a new start, a new holiday, and a new holiday season (because I refuse to start Christmas stuff until after Thanksgiving)!
Unfortunately, today I don’t have a video to share with you, since Fridays are normally pretty short anyway. But, as per tradition and to make some of your blog surfing a little bit easier, I present to you:
Weekend Wind-Down: Cooking and Leftovers Edition! Every Friday, I count down the top four blog posts or articles I’ve read on the week’s theme. Each one has to do with one of the main days, Monday through Thursday.
But, in a slight change of tradition, instead of me presenting these blog posts without any more ado… Frog is going to do it instead.
There will also be a video tomorrow…
Unfortunately, today I don’t have a video to share with you, since Fridays are normally pretty short anyway. But, as per tradition and to make some of your blog surfing a little bit easier, I present to you:
Weekend Wind-Down: Cooking and Leftovers Edition! Every Friday, I count down the top four blog posts or articles I’ve read on the week’s theme. Each one has to do with one of the main days, Monday through Thursday.
But, in a slight change of tradition, instead of me presenting these blog posts without any more ado… Frog is going to do it instead.
- 1. Table Talk – this is by far the best article/blog post I have ever seen on cooking with leftovers. Not only does the writer give ideas on how to use different foods from leftovers in new dishes, she also gives ideas on how to store them to keep them fresher for a longer period of time. I’ve actually bookmarked this particular article. I have a feeling it will come in handy.
- 2. The Mama Bee – Mama Bee breaks down so many different spices that may or may not have been covered earlier this week. You’ll have to go to the site to find out just what exactly is up with all of them. What you’ll find when you get there is a good list, broken down, easy to read. If you’re thinking about going shopping for something savory to add to your kitchen arsenal, check this site out before you make your list.
- 3. FN Humor – In reality, this has nothing to do with us saving money. I just saw it and started laughing so hard, it was difficult to stop. I realize that most of you are not Food Network (FN) junkies like I am… but just trust me when I say these are funny. It’s Food Network Humor: How the Network can Save Money! There are lots of pictures, too!
- 4. Examiner – Finally, I present to you to best article I’ve found on eating healthy while on a budget. It’s the top 10 tips, which is always a favorite of mine, pretty much because it makes it quicker and easier to read.
There will also be a video tomorrow…
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Round 2 is Just as Good
Remember when I asked you to watch some TV for homework? Well, I forgot to add one show to it, mostly likely because this one is on TLC and not Food Network. This show is called Cook Once, Eat Twice. It’s all about… leftovers!
Leftovers are the perfect, hidden way to save money on cooking. If you’re going to take the time to make a meal, you know it’s going to be something you really like. However, at the same time, you don’t want to like it for the next couple days. You taste buds get sick of it (remember when we were talking about spices? Same thing).
The secret to cooking leftovers is to make something new with them. Here are some tricks of the trade when it comes to making new meals with old leftovers. Also, if you’re all about the Italian side of things, here are 7 ways to use leftovers to make a new Italian style meal. Yummy!
Also, I promised you on Monday that I would tell you why Sandra’s Money Saving Meals is my favorite show out of the ones I listed. It’s quite simple. She does a segment called “Round 2.” She takes the leftovers from one of her already money saving recipes and makes something new from it.
This is perfect because when my boyfriend and I cook, it is normally just for the two of us. There are rarely any recipes that are made for 2 portions. Almost always 4 or more. We got sick of leftovers… until I discovered this.
There are two samples for you! The first is a calzone recipe made from leftover spaghetti and meatballs. The second is pork pot stickers from Pulled Pork Sandwiches! The great thing about all of these is that if you prefer that recipe, you can just make that and don’t have to worry about Round 1!
Leftovers are the perfect, hidden way to save money on cooking. If you’re going to take the time to make a meal, you know it’s going to be something you really like. However, at the same time, you don’t want to like it for the next couple days. You taste buds get sick of it (remember when we were talking about spices? Same thing).
The secret to cooking leftovers is to make something new with them. Here are some tricks of the trade when it comes to making new meals with old leftovers. Also, if you’re all about the Italian side of things, here are 7 ways to use leftovers to make a new Italian style meal. Yummy!
Also, I promised you on Monday that I would tell you why Sandra’s Money Saving Meals is my favorite show out of the ones I listed. It’s quite simple. She does a segment called “Round 2.” She takes the leftovers from one of her already money saving recipes and makes something new from it.
This is perfect because when my boyfriend and I cook, it is normally just for the two of us. There are rarely any recipes that are made for 2 portions. Almost always 4 or more. We got sick of leftovers… until I discovered this.
There are two samples for you! The first is a calzone recipe made from leftover spaghetti and meatballs. The second is pork pot stickers from Pulled Pork Sandwiches! The great thing about all of these is that if you prefer that recipe, you can just make that and don’t have to worry about Round 1!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
20 lbs by Christmas?!?
We talked briefly about organic foods yesterday. This is not the main crux of today’s post… unless you really want to stretch your interpretation. I’m fine with any, as long as you keep reading! ;-)
Today is basically about this guy.
Ok, it’s not really about that guy, but rather his argument. It is completely possible to eat healthy while on a budget. MSNBC even did a story about it. It can be done.
For example, when you buy fresh fruits and vegetables, buy them when they’re in season. If you decide in the middle on winter that you really need an apple, it’s going to cost you more because that solitary apple has to be imported or brought in from another part of the country. There’s no reason to discount frozen vegetables, either. Just learn to read the labels, so you’re not getting anything crazy.
Also, you can make farmer’s markets your new haunt. While some of their items may seem expensive when you get there, it’s just like grocery shopping. No one wants to see the final bill because it’s a lot of money at one time. But break it down. You don’t have the benefit of the labels like at the grocery store, but a little more thought and maybe a calculator, which most cell phones have, added into the mix… you’re good to go.
Here are a couple more ideas on how to make sure you get your money’s worth on eating healthy. These 7 tips are pretty good and this one has lots of pictures to go along with the arguments.
And finally, without any further ado, here is the second video of the day, which is about picking out the right foods to eat healthy, which is the foundation of saving money in this endeavor.
Today is basically about this guy.
Ok, it’s not really about that guy, but rather his argument. It is completely possible to eat healthy while on a budget. MSNBC even did a story about it. It can be done.
For example, when you buy fresh fruits and vegetables, buy them when they’re in season. If you decide in the middle on winter that you really need an apple, it’s going to cost you more because that solitary apple has to be imported or brought in from another part of the country. There’s no reason to discount frozen vegetables, either. Just learn to read the labels, so you’re not getting anything crazy.
Also, you can make farmer’s markets your new haunt. While some of their items may seem expensive when you get there, it’s just like grocery shopping. No one wants to see the final bill because it’s a lot of money at one time. But break it down. You don’t have the benefit of the labels like at the grocery store, but a little more thought and maybe a calculator, which most cell phones have, added into the mix… you’re good to go.
Here are a couple more ideas on how to make sure you get your money’s worth on eating healthy. These 7 tips are pretty good and this one has lots of pictures to go along with the arguments.
And finally, without any further ado, here is the second video of the day, which is about picking out the right foods to eat healthy, which is the foundation of saving money in this endeavor.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Things NEVER to be Without
In this post, I’m really not talking about some of the really cool kitchen gadgets that are out there. My personal favorite is the anti-freeze ice cream scoop, closely followed by the cookie dropper. Not all kitchens need those things. But there are certain tiny morsels that every single one cannot be without…
Have you ever eaten a meal that was completely and utterly bland? Like chicken that has no taste or some dry turkey breast? I bet, if you had the opportunity, you slathered on some gravy or ketchup or something. Or maybe you just ate some more random food in order to feel satisfied.
The funny thing about humans is that we crave to have flavor in our dishes. If you eat one portion of well seasoned whatever, it is more satisfying than a couple portions of something bland. I guess it’s the taste buds’ way of overcompensating or seeking out what it really wants.
What better way to save on cooking than to actually season and spice your food? That way, you won’t feel the need to cook more or eat more because your taste buds are always happy.
Bet you didn’t know this, but there are some health benefits to spices. I’m not a Biology person, so I really don’t want to spout off my mouth, due to no credentials, but check this website out. Also, if you really get into the spice thing, you might want to consider buying them in bulk. Even if your taste buds prefer the organic route, there are organic spices, never fear.
Check out this video. It breaks down the spices and seasonings that you cannot have a kitchen without. I don’t know what you’d call it if you didn’t have them… ideas?
Have you ever eaten a meal that was completely and utterly bland? Like chicken that has no taste or some dry turkey breast? I bet, if you had the opportunity, you slathered on some gravy or ketchup or something. Or maybe you just ate some more random food in order to feel satisfied.
The funny thing about humans is that we crave to have flavor in our dishes. If you eat one portion of well seasoned whatever, it is more satisfying than a couple portions of something bland. I guess it’s the taste buds’ way of overcompensating or seeking out what it really wants.
What better way to save on cooking than to actually season and spice your food? That way, you won’t feel the need to cook more or eat more because your taste buds are always happy.
Bet you didn’t know this, but there are some health benefits to spices. I’m not a Biology person, so I really don’t want to spout off my mouth, due to no credentials, but check this website out. Also, if you really get into the spice thing, you might want to consider buying them in bulk. Even if your taste buds prefer the organic route, there are organic spices, never fear.
Check out this video. It breaks down the spices and seasonings that you cannot have a kitchen without. I don’t know what you’d call it if you didn’t have them… ideas?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Time to Watch Some TV
Yep, I’m going to be one of the most well-liked teachers when I finally graduate and get a job. Why? Because the homework I’m assigning to all of you is to go watch some TV. The Food Network to be precise.
My boyfriend will tell you – this is the only channel I can watch for hours without getting antsy or feeling the need to go do something else. I did the research for this post while watching it. Some may call it cheating… I call it being resourceful and getting inspiration.
So go watch the Food Network. You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you get there and find out that there are many different shows on there dedicated to saving money. These shows will not only give you ideas for recipes, they can also teach you how to budget money, time, and effort into making a good meal.
My boyfriend will tell you – this is the only channel I can watch for hours without getting antsy or feeling the need to go do something else. I did the research for this post while watching it. Some may call it cheating… I call it being resourceful and getting inspiration.
So go watch the Food Network. You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you get there and find out that there are many different shows on there dedicated to saving money. These shows will not only give you ideas for recipes, they can also teach you how to budget money, time, and effort into making a good meal.
- 1. Sandra’s Money Saving Meals! This show is all about cooking for a variety of people for a variety of reasons. My personal favorite episode was the tailgating one. She breaks down how much she paid for each ingredient, how many servings it makes, and finishes up the math for you by figuring out how much per person. You just have to watch and curb your grumbling stomach!
- 2. 5 Ingredient Fix! Think about it. The less you use, the less you have to buy. Even if one of the ingredients in filet mignon, at least you don’t have to spend any money on any other random ingredient. Also, this makes cooking so much easier… what a great way to start out.
- 3. $40 a Day! Rachel Ray, the queen of 30 Minute Meals, has a mission to travel around the world on a food budget of $40 a day. That’s for 3 meals and any other snacks in between. Thinking about Spring break? Check out this show.
- 4. Quick Fix Meals! Just like 30 Minute Meals, only faster. Some of the recipes aren’t necessarily based on saving money, but you can adapt quickly, considering these take only a couple minutes to make.
- 5. Ten Dollar Dinners! Finally, we have the winner of The Next Food Network Star, who’s cooking dinner every episode for $10… and it serves 4 people. Ummm… yes please!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.jpg)
