For those in the Portland, Oregon area, we are blessed with a good selection of Asian markets. There are a few big ones (notably Uwajimaya on the west side and Fubonn on the east), but a whole bunch of smaller ones. One of my favorites (on the east side) is An Dong, on 55th and Powell. I can get all my Thai cooking needs met with one stop, even the fresh rice noodles and Thai holy basil. Fubonn is where I go when there are more obscure items to purchase. For kimchee, I only go to Korean markets. My current favorite is Paldo World, on Foster near 60th, though there's one on the west side, too.
There are many all around town, so just poke your head in one in your neighborhood– you'll be pleasantly surprised.
For chicken and lamb, I tend to go to a Halal butcher. It's exceptionally fresh, and prices tend to be 1/2 or lower than I'd find at a mainstream grocery, especially for lamb.
Good one, Nora! Is this the start of a series, perhaps? I'm looking forward to more on the subject, if so. For example,do you have any particular communication services and software programs you feel are above par for things like document sharing, receipt documentation and conference calling?
It doesn't have to be that expensive to have some of the so-called luxuries for your baby.
Seek out garage sales, newspaper ads (like free PennySaver type newspapers) from parents whose kids have moved on. A $200 swing could be had for maybe $40. Then you could in theory, sell it when your kid has moved on for nearly that amount. Be aware of safety recalls and check into these before buying...
This is an interesting article. Companies need to keep the percentage of chargeback’s to a minimum in order to keep good relationships with payment processors like Visa. It is tough for small companies, but they can always become ISO accredited.
Another vote for Asian markets... and indeed, "ethnic" markets in general. We visit Asian, Hispanic, West / East European, and Middle Eastern markets regularly, along with our big box grocery and natural food market. Some of what we buy is cuisine specific (we love to cook and eat a variety of foods from around the world) but some isn't. For example, the Halal foods store we frequent has the cheapest and best yogurt (which we mix with fruit and jelly as well as eating plain) and delicious dried fruits and nuts. Many of the spices we find so cheap in Spanish-speaking shops are useful for all kinds of cooking. And the veggies at Hmart cross all manner of cuisines (broccoli and carrots are broccoli and carrots). And don't get me started on the teas and drinks these shops offer!
For those in smaller towns, you might not have any major food stores that specialize in world foods, but if you have any diversity of population at all there may be small markets in some neighborhoods.
If you are in the cleveland area there are several Asian Markets in the Asian area at E 24th to E 40th from St Clair to Payne Ave. Park to Shop is the newest, and cleanest and is located in the Asia Plaza at 30th & Payne. Also there are asian markets, middle eastern markets, and all sorts of ethnic markets all over the city.
Columbus has a very active Asian Community and several Chinese, Korean and Japanese Markets. I have been to them with friends, but couldnt tell you exactly where they are.
Excellent point about the reading labels -- for me, I tend to get stuck on crackers. I love cheese and crackers and while I often intend to make my own, it always seems easier to buy them.
To my mind, one spends in accordance with one's own values: You buy everything you need, and as much of what you want as you can afford. (Some things you want may require saving for some time to reach the goal).
The point of this post was to remind people that not everyone is thinking this clearly about their spending. As you start to think clearly--and as your thinking begins to affect your spending--you're going to change your behavior. And, as you do that, you're going to run into conflicts with friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, and others who were expecting your spending to stay on auto-pilot like theirs.
I was suggesting a few tips and strategies for minimizing these conflicts without having to abandon your values.
We don't know how much new inflation we'll have over the next few months, but we don't need any new inflation to get the surge I was talking about.
Here's a chart that probably should have been in the main body of the post. Suppose prices remain exactly where they are now for the next few months. Here's what happens to year-over-year reported change in CPI under that scenario:
August -1.94%
September -1.46%
October -1.43%
November -0.47%
December 1.24%
January 1.99%
You see the reported change in inflation swings from a deflation rate of nearly 2% to an inflation rate of nearly 2%, even if there's no change in prices at all--simply because the base month for the year-over-year changes.
Change in the CPI has not, in fact, been running at zero, though. For the past six months, it's been running at 2.7%. If that continues for the next six months, we'd have to add that on. So, just continuing on our recent path would bring the annual change in the CPI to 4.7% by the beginning of next year.
Now, 4.7% inflation is not the worst rate ever, but it's a pretty big jump from negative 2%. More to the point, it's not a prediction based on recent changes in the money supply causing a surge in prices--it's just a calculation based on the numbers that are already out there. If we get a surge in prices too, it would be layered on top of this.
So, keep an eye on the reported CPI number, and be aware that changes of this magnituted are already "baked in."
If you want to think a little more deeply about it, just follow the numbers (and consequences)
Minimum wage goes up, there is much rejoicing until a bunch of employers and small businesses lay folks off in an attempt to control costs. In any business HR accounts for the biggest line item cost. It just jumped by a little more than 10%, so it's time to cut back a bit.
Those at minimum wage will have a bit more money, until the cost of goods and services go up in order to back the increased cost of employing people. This will happen very, very fast and it will happen across the board.
The price of a loaf of bread will go up by about 10%. That leaves the minimum wage earner with exactly the same amount of buying power that he had before the increase, if he got to keep his job. The numbers were just shuffled.
The only realistic way for a minimum wage earner to increase his buying power is by hard work and proving to potential employers that the minimum wage earner is worth more.
What's more, those of us who do not earn minimum wage will be hurt because the inevitable inflation will happen much faster than our payraises, actually lowering our purchasing power.
Minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, that way we won't have a big shock to the system.
A lot of people told me not to get a changing table because they never used theirs, but I use mine multiple times each day. It has really saved my back. I think it usefulness will partly depend on where the baby's room is. If you have a two story house, for example, you won't want to hike up the stairs just to change the baby. In a small one story home like mine, however, it is always convenient.
About the swing, my baby never liked swinging. You might just wait until the baby is born and then borrow one for a few days from a friend. If your baby likes it, you may want to consider getting one.
Alright, I'm confused by much of this thread. Not one to spend ridiculously, especially in this none-to-bright economic forecast, but what are we saving for anyways? Trips, food, and some future security. There really isn't much else that money actually accomplishes in life, and I AM throwing piece of mind on that pile.
HMart is Korean, I go there too (in Vancouver). Asian grocery stores can be a mixed bag, some are dirty and the meat is suspect, others are as good or better than Safeway or such major chains.
It's true that Western foods are sometimes priced higher than "regular" stores so you have to watch the prices.
If you're unfamiliar with Asian cooking it might be good to ask a knowledgeable friend to escort you for tips and explanations. Otherwise you might not take full advantage of everything there - although just the produce and meat sections can make the trip worthwhile.
To me, a recession is a time to take a "recess" from our hectic everyday lifestyle and focus on clarifying our goals and agendas. While the current financial crisis has been a rude awakening, it's an excellent time to take a step back, evaluate what we really need, reorganize personal finances and a sensible budget, and remember what's really important in life.
I can't explain everything here except that it has NOTHING to do with cancer and they make a lot of money - just check the wikipedia page's criticisms. Seriously.
My husband is afraid of the co-sleeping thing. He says he is sure he'd hurt the baby somehow. I did sleep with my parents when I was a baby and my mom said that she was afraid of squashing me, too, but I wasn't stupid and just moved out of the way most of the time. I am definitely considering cloth diapers since disposable diapers contribute a lot to landfills. We will see, though.
Seriously, cloth diapers have changes so much since what our parents used. They are easy, convenient, cheap, cute, durable, and wonderful! I regret the first 4 months of my daughters life and all the money I wasted on disposable diapers.
Check out some cloth diapering sites (kellyscloset.com and diaperswappers.com are personal favorites) and see what all is out there! You'll be amazed.
Take a walk by yourself.
Meet a friend for a quiet cup of coffee.
Pray in a quiet place.
Take a short nap with quiet, soothing music.
For those in the Portland, Oregon area, we are blessed with a good selection of Asian markets. There are a few big ones (notably Uwajimaya on the west side and Fubonn on the east), but a whole bunch of smaller ones. One of my favorites (on the east side) is An Dong, on 55th and Powell. I can get all my Thai cooking needs met with one stop, even the fresh rice noodles and Thai holy basil. Fubonn is where I go when there are more obscure items to purchase. For kimchee, I only go to Korean markets. My current favorite is Paldo World, on Foster near 60th, though there's one on the west side, too.
There are many all around town, so just poke your head in one in your neighborhood– you'll be pleasantly surprised.
For chicken and lamb, I tend to go to a Halal butcher. It's exceptionally fresh, and prices tend to be 1/2 or lower than I'd find at a mainstream grocery, especially for lamb.
Good one, Nora! Is this the start of a series, perhaps? I'm looking forward to more on the subject, if so. For example,do you have any particular communication services and software programs you feel are above par for things like document sharing, receipt documentation and conference calling?
Check out my various projects and services at Itinerant Tightwad. I also have a monthly education newsletter.
It doesn't have to be that expensive to have some of the so-called luxuries for your baby.
Seek out garage sales, newspaper ads (like free PennySaver type newspapers) from parents whose kids have moved on. A $200 swing could be had for maybe $40. Then you could in theory, sell it when your kid has moved on for nearly that amount. Be aware of safety recalls and check into these before buying...
This is an interesting article. Companies need to keep the percentage of chargeback’s to a minimum in order to keep good relationships with payment processors like Visa. It is tough for small companies, but they can always become ISO accredited.
Another vote for Asian markets... and indeed, "ethnic" markets in general. We visit Asian, Hispanic, West / East European, and Middle Eastern markets regularly, along with our big box grocery and natural food market. Some of what we buy is cuisine specific (we love to cook and eat a variety of foods from around the world) but some isn't. For example, the Halal foods store we frequent has the cheapest and best yogurt (which we mix with fruit and jelly as well as eating plain) and delicious dried fruits and nuts. Many of the spices we find so cheap in Spanish-speaking shops are useful for all kinds of cooking. And the veggies at Hmart cross all manner of cuisines (broccoli and carrots are broccoli and carrots). And don't get me started on the teas and drinks these shops offer!
For those in smaller towns, you might not have any major food stores that specialize in world foods, but if you have any diversity of population at all there may be small markets in some neighborhoods.
If you are in the cleveland area there are several Asian Markets in the Asian area at E 24th to E 40th from St Clair to Payne Ave. Park to Shop is the newest, and cleanest and is located in the Asia Plaza at 30th & Payne. Also there are asian markets, middle eastern markets, and all sorts of ethnic markets all over the city.
Columbus has a very active Asian Community and several Chinese, Korean and Japanese Markets. I have been to them with friends, but couldnt tell you exactly where they are.
I had the Diaper Genie and hated it - mine never seemed to work right. I did have a Boppy and a Boppy Gym, both of which my son loved.
Excellent point about the reading labels -- for me, I tend to get stuck on crackers. I love cheese and crackers and while I often intend to make my own, it always seems easier to buy them.
Another reason I want to live in a big city.
Do you have any pictures of how these do-it-yourself items are supposed to look?
@Guest:
To my mind, one spends in accordance with one's own values: You buy everything you need, and as much of what you want as you can afford. (Some things you want may require saving for some time to reach the goal).
The point of this post was to remind people that not everyone is thinking this clearly about their spending. As you start to think clearly--and as your thinking begins to affect your spending--you're going to change your behavior. And, as you do that, you're going to run into conflicts with friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, and others who were expecting your spending to stay on auto-pilot like theirs.
I was suggesting a few tips and strategies for minimizing these conflicts without having to abandon your values.
We don't know how much new inflation we'll have over the next few months, but we don't need any new inflation to get the surge I was talking about.
Here's a chart that probably should have been in the main body of the post. Suppose prices remain exactly where they are now for the next few months. Here's what happens to year-over-year reported change in CPI under that scenario:
You see the reported change in inflation swings from a deflation rate of nearly 2% to an inflation rate of nearly 2%, even if there's no change in prices at all--simply because the base month for the year-over-year changes.
Change in the CPI has not, in fact, been running at zero, though. For the past six months, it's been running at 2.7%. If that continues for the next six months, we'd have to add that on. So, just continuing on our recent path would bring the annual change in the CPI to 4.7% by the beginning of next year.
Now, 4.7% inflation is not the worst rate ever, but it's a pretty big jump from negative 2%. More to the point, it's not a prediction based on recent changes in the money supply causing a surge in prices--it's just a calculation based on the numbers that are already out there. If we get a surge in prices too, it would be layered on top of this.
So, keep an eye on the reported CPI number, and be aware that changes of this magnituted are already "baked in."
That's what I was trying to say.
If you want to think a little more deeply about it, just follow the numbers (and consequences)
Minimum wage goes up, there is much rejoicing until a bunch of employers and small businesses lay folks off in an attempt to control costs. In any business HR accounts for the biggest line item cost. It just jumped by a little more than 10%, so it's time to cut back a bit.
Those at minimum wage will have a bit more money, until the cost of goods and services go up in order to back the increased cost of employing people. This will happen very, very fast and it will happen across the board.
The price of a loaf of bread will go up by about 10%. That leaves the minimum wage earner with exactly the same amount of buying power that he had before the increase, if he got to keep his job. The numbers were just shuffled.
The only realistic way for a minimum wage earner to increase his buying power is by hard work and proving to potential employers that the minimum wage earner is worth more.
What's more, those of us who do not earn minimum wage will be hurt because the inevitable inflation will happen much faster than our payraises, actually lowering our purchasing power.
Minimum wage should be indexed to inflation, that way we won't have a big shock to the system.
Hi! Can anyone recommend ethic food stores here in Ohio?
A lot of people told me not to get a changing table because they never used theirs, but I use mine multiple times each day. It has really saved my back. I think it usefulness will partly depend on where the baby's room is. If you have a two story house, for example, you won't want to hike up the stairs just to change the baby. In a small one story home like mine, however, it is always convenient.
About the swing, my baby never liked swinging. You might just wait until the baby is born and then borrow one for a few days from a friend. If your baby likes it, you may want to consider getting one.
Alright, I'm confused by much of this thread. Not one to spend ridiculously, especially in this none-to-bright economic forecast, but what are we saving for anyways? Trips, food, and some future security. There really isn't much else that money actually accomplishes in life, and I AM throwing piece of mind on that pile.
Anyone have some insight?
HMart is Korean, I go there too (in Vancouver). Asian grocery stores can be a mixed bag, some are dirty and the meat is suspect, others are as good or better than Safeway or such major chains.
It's true that Western foods are sometimes priced higher than "regular" stores so you have to watch the prices.
If you're unfamiliar with Asian cooking it might be good to ask a knowledgeable friend to escort you for tips and explanations. Otherwise you might not take full advantage of everything there - although just the produce and meat sections can make the trip worthwhile.
To me, a recession is a time to take a "recess" from our hectic everyday lifestyle and focus on clarifying our goals and agendas. While the current financial crisis has been a rude awakening, it's an excellent time to take a step back, evaluate what we really need, reorganize personal finances and a sensible budget, and remember what's really important in life.
You've made a mistake about Locks of Love.
I can't explain everything here except that it has NOTHING to do with cancer and they make a lot of money - just check the wikipedia page's criticisms. Seriously.
Spread the knowledge.
My husband is afraid of the co-sleeping thing. He says he is sure he'd hurt the baby somehow. I did sleep with my parents when I was a baby and my mom said that she was afraid of squashing me, too, but I wasn't stupid and just moved out of the way most of the time. I am definitely considering cloth diapers since disposable diapers contribute a lot to landfills. We will see, though.
Seriously, cloth diapers have changes so much since what our parents used. They are easy, convenient, cheap, cute, durable, and wonderful! I regret the first 4 months of my daughters life and all the money I wasted on disposable diapers.
Check out some cloth diapering sites (kellyscloset.com and diaperswappers.com are personal favorites) and see what all is out there! You'll be amazed.
Cloth is totally worth it!
congratulations, Ipray that you will have a beautiful baby
and for a great marriage.
God bless.
the more we can learn from each other the better.