Frugality: The Envelope System

The envelope system is something my mom taught me right before I left for college. Use cash only, take it all out at once, store it in envelopes specifically designated for certain things, and when it’s gone it’s gone. You may not borrow from envelopes. No stealing gas for groceries. You have a budget and you must stick with it. … Read More

Five No-Fee Writing Contests

I love a good contest.  Even more than a good contest, I love a good contest without a reading fee.  Back when I was in college, one of my teachers advised us to stay away from fee-based contests.  “You’re writers,” he pointed out.  (He also pointed out that we were college students, which was painfully obvious by our ratty sweatshirts and … Read More

Make Your Own Laundry Detergent. Woo Hoo!

Why?  A couple of reasons.  It’s green.  It saves money.  It smells better than the store brands.  The kids think you’re amazing because you get to use a cool food processor, and it just feels good to make something of your own. Best of all?  It’s super easy! You all know I’m strapped for time, but I made seven batches in 20 … Read More