Favorite Park? Knoebel's Grove hands down. We live within 15 minutes of Hershey and have gone often to satisfy out of town family when they visit. But on our own, we prefer going to the lower tech Knoebel's, with their shaded cooking areas, free parking, pay as you go ride options and better, cheaper food. The carousel museum, free concerts, and shorter lines, all better than Hershey. Plus, the free "plays" the kids can dress up for (costumes provided) and participate in. That stop was a must when our kids were small.
Fluoridated water is not beneficial. By the way, first use of fluoridated water on the masses was by Hitler. It makes people more passive and is an active ingredient in many medications for depression and anxiety and treating psychotic conditions.
I have lived pretty frugally for a long time, and tend to convince myself that if I throw something away, it might be worth something, or I’ll have to pay to replace it. I had a TV cabinet in my living room for 2 months because I was convinced that I could sell it for something. I only threw it away when a neighbor mentioned he was going to the dump and wondered if I needed to get rid of something. I also got rid of some carpet I pulled up like 3 years ago. I feel so great when I get rid of stuff, but the tendency to drop things in the trash that aren’t being use feels so FINAL.
I hosted last month's book club for seven guests for under $25. I made a ton of sangria with three bottles of Charles Shaw wine from Trader Joe's, and only put in some sliced apples and cantaloupe - nothing too fancy. Also, for snacks I cut up a whole head or broccoli and cauliflower and peeled some carrots instead of buying a prepared veggie tray. To round it out, I purchased generic brand chips and dip and served everything in nice ceramic dishes. The sangria was a hit, the food was devoured, and everyone had a great time.
Glad to hear, Jeremy! The best way to enjoy 7-11 Day is to go with a whole bunch of friends. It is a lot of fun just go into the store and get as much slurps as you want. Have fun!
I have made three separate attempts at refinancing my rental.
Refinancing a rental property is actually a near impossible way to save money on a mortgage, at least in California. There are separate standards banks use to judge risk on rental properties vs. primary residences. Apparently more people walk away from their rental properties than their primary residences, so even with excellent credit and a property that is worth $500,000 more than when I bought it, I have been shut down. When I ask the banks why, with my credit history, they think I'd walk away from my most valuable belonging, I get the same line about "we calculate risk with an algorithm."
This is one of those banking practices, that came out of the sub-prime mortgage debacle that keeps people poor and actually incentivizes bad financial behavior.
I recently had to host 3 parties in one month for my daughter who recently graduated high school. To save money, I had family members prepare favorite dishes to bring as a potluck. Also, I look for a few high impact decorations, which may cost a little more individually, instead of spending a ton of money on many smaller items.
I always find that hosting a breakfast or brunch party is easier on the wallet and more laid-back than a dinner party. A game night with snacks is also a fun party to host on the cheap!
That's the one blessing that I found with unemployment too. I learned to make due with less, I cut my budget significantly and when I eventually found a new job I kept (most of) that lifestyle. Now I'm saving a significant portion of my income and it doesn't feel like I'm trying anymore.
An easy way to save money over the past few years would have been to refinance that atrocious 5.9% mortgage rate. The 30-year fixed bottomed out at around 3.5% which would have saved you tens of thousands over the course of the loan. You could still probably refinance today and knock off 1.5%.
We do a lot of pot lucks. Everyone can bring a dish and it helps whoever is hosting.
Also, for the summer we keep it simple. Hamburgers & hot dogs, tossed salad, potato salad, and fresh fruit. For us the whole point of having a party is to celebrate an occasion or get together to visit with family and friends.
The Ladders study you linked in the beginning has serious methodological problems and may not be credible. It's impossible to tell if the study is scientifically accurate because they were opaque about their methodology. You can read about its problems in depth here: http://resumegenius.com/blog/5-problems-with-the-ladders-6-second-resume...
Nonetheless, the information in this article is well worth taking to heart. Moreover, The Ladders' study may be accurate, but it's impossible to know without looking at their data in a more in depth manner, which has not been released.
Who doesn't like free stuff? Better yet, who doesn't like free food?! You're the best! Thanks for listing them up! Woohoo! Can't wait to get free slurpee this month!
I look for sales, stock up. Use coupons, rebates.
Favorite Park? Knoebel's Grove hands down. We live within 15 minutes of Hershey and have gone often to satisfy out of town family when they visit. But on our own, we prefer going to the lower tech Knoebel's, with their shaded cooking areas, free parking, pay as you go ride options and better, cheaper food. The carousel museum, free concerts, and shorter lines, all better than Hershey. Plus, the free "plays" the kids can dress up for (costumes provided) and participate in. That stop was a must when our kids were small.
Use yogurt as a dunker with graham crackers
It's called a "chinese gift exchange" out here:)
Fluoridated water is not beneficial. By the way, first use of fluoridated water on the masses was by Hitler. It makes people more passive and is an active ingredient in many medications for depression and anxiety and treating psychotic conditions.
Potlucks are great, but I also go grocery shop and find things on sale. From there I create a menu!
I always do my research ahead of time. Couponing also helps!
Do your own cooking and not picking up pre-made food. Chicken or burgers on the grill are always popular.
Hosting potluck at a nearby park is always fun and worth it!
I have lived pretty frugally for a long time, and tend to convince myself that if I throw something away, it might be worth something, or I’ll have to pay to replace it. I had a TV cabinet in my living room for 2 months because I was convinced that I could sell it for something. I only threw it away when a neighbor mentioned he was going to the dump and wondered if I needed to get rid of something. I also got rid of some carpet I pulled up like 3 years ago. I feel so great when I get rid of stuff, but the tendency to drop things in the trash that aren’t being use feels so FINAL.
I hosted last month's book club for seven guests for under $25. I made a ton of sangria with three bottles of Charles Shaw wine from Trader Joe's, and only put in some sliced apples and cantaloupe - nothing too fancy. Also, for snacks I cut up a whole head or broccoli and cauliflower and peeled some carrots instead of buying a prepared veggie tray. To round it out, I purchased generic brand chips and dip and served everything in nice ceramic dishes. The sangria was a hit, the food was devoured, and everyone had a great time.
Disposable ware at dollar store and Pinterest a recipe for the cake. Shish kabobs are cheap, yummy, and a nice summer dinner.
Glad to hear, Jeremy! The best way to enjoy 7-11 Day is to go with a whole bunch of friends. It is a lot of fun just go into the store and get as much slurps as you want. Have fun!
Hi Greg!
I have made three separate attempts at refinancing my rental.
Refinancing a rental property is actually a near impossible way to save money on a mortgage, at least in California. There are separate standards banks use to judge risk on rental properties vs. primary residences. Apparently more people walk away from their rental properties than their primary residences, so even with excellent credit and a property that is worth $500,000 more than when I bought it, I have been shut down. When I ask the banks why, with my credit history, they think I'd walk away from my most valuable belonging, I get the same line about "we calculate risk with an algorithm."
This is one of those banking practices, that came out of the sub-prime mortgage debacle that keeps people poor and actually incentivizes bad financial behavior.
Sounds like you're off to a good start Momcents.
Yes, lifecycle funds are a good option for people who want to stay hands-off with their investments.
Hit up costco for the alcoholic beverages. Then I ask friends to each bring something to share.
I recently had to host 3 parties in one month for my daughter who recently graduated high school. To save money, I had family members prepare favorite dishes to bring as a potluck. Also, I look for a few high impact decorations, which may cost a little more individually, instead of spending a ton of money on many smaller items.
I always find that hosting a breakfast or brunch party is easier on the wallet and more laid-back than a dinner party. A game night with snacks is also a fun party to host on the cheap!
That's the one blessing that I found with unemployment too. I learned to make due with less, I cut my budget significantly and when I eventually found a new job I kept (most of) that lifestyle. Now I'm saving a significant portion of my income and it doesn't feel like I'm trying anymore.
I host a potluck, that way everyone shares the responsibility of cost and no one pays way too much
An easy way to save money over the past few years would have been to refinance that atrocious 5.9% mortgage rate. The 30-year fixed bottomed out at around 3.5% which would have saved you tens of thousands over the course of the loan. You could still probably refinance today and knock off 1.5%.
We do a lot of pot lucks. Everyone can bring a dish and it helps whoever is hosting.
Also, for the summer we keep it simple. Hamburgers & hot dogs, tossed salad, potato salad, and fresh fruit. For us the whole point of having a party is to celebrate an occasion or get together to visit with family and friends.
The Ladders study you linked in the beginning has serious methodological problems and may not be credible. It's impossible to tell if the study is scientifically accurate because they were opaque about their methodology. You can read about its problems in depth here: http://resumegenius.com/blog/5-problems-with-the-ladders-6-second-resume...
Nonetheless, the information in this article is well worth taking to heart. Moreover, The Ladders' study may be accurate, but it's impossible to know without looking at their data in a more in depth manner, which has not been released.
Who doesn't like free stuff? Better yet, who doesn't like free food?! You're the best! Thanks for listing them up! Woohoo! Can't wait to get free slurpee this month!
With Groupon or Living Social, you can find massages for around $40. Or try a massage college.