One of the best ways to save money is to make the most of what you have.  You can easily do that with this one inexpensive kitchen tool that always saves money. … [Read more...]

My son wanted to go on a bike ride with his dad and brother the other day. Now, it's "spring" in Minnesota which means that it can be a little muddy, but since he was riding his bike and not walking around in the muck, I suggested that he wear his sneakers instead of his rubber mud boots. I forgot that boys get off their bikes and like to explore.  … [Read more...]

I don't subscribe to many magazines anymore. Occasionally, I'll use loyalty rewards from places like My Coke Rewards to pick up a free magazine subscription, but most of the time, I tend to read them at my library (or download them through my library's subscription to Zinio for free) or browse my mom's magazines when I'm visiting at her house. But there are a few magazines we subscribe to that aren't readily available through cheapskate means.  So I try to get a great deal on them when I see … [Read more...]

  If there's one thing we all seem to have trouble with, it's portion control.  Super-sized cups, giant plates, and deep spoons can all contribute to our shrinking wallets and expanding waistlines. I've mentioned before that measuring your portion sizes is a great way to save money and calories.  It can also help you stretch  your food and drink budget when hosting a gathering. … [Read more...]

Before you rush out to the hardware store to buy just the right tool for your home improvement project, check to see if you can take advantage of a tool-lending library. … [Read more...]

One of my favorite ways to give gifts is to put them in gift bags.   But what happens when there's more bag than gift? You need a cheap and easy gift bag filler! … [Read more...]