We had a baby shower for a girl at work today.  I was a little worried because we had vowed to try and not spend as much for the rest of this month.  I was trying to think of what I could get her that she could use and wasn’t too expensive.  I know her mother in law has purchased a lot of items for the baby.

I had to make something for the luncheon, so I decided I would make a taco dip because that was easy to make and everyone enjoys it.  When I got home, I realized an important thing.  I forgot to buy a gift. After I got done kicking myself, I decided I was not going to go back out and I was going to make do with what I had.  I had a lot of scrapbooking items left over, so I made a handmade card, and after that I saw the light bulb go off in my head: I had a pair of longies (wool baby pants) I had knitted this summer that would make an amazing gift.  I went into my spare bedroom, found them, went to my basement and re used a bag I had received a gift in, and there I was!  A beautiful baby shower gift for $0.  Of course I had to buy the yarn and materials, but had I not been creative, I would have gone to the store, spent $20 on a gift, and then probably found something else I “needed”.

Sometimes it pays to be creative.  I was so proud of myself, and when she opened the gift today, I felt so much better about my decision.  She loved the fact that I had made them myself and it was a very thoughtful gift.  Being frugal requires you to think outside the box a lot.  I’m glad I did, and I know she’s grateful for the beautiful handmade gift.

What is something creative you’ve done to save money?

Posted under Save Your Money

Well… I finally have electricity!  I am so happy.  A week without power is a long one!  The week drug on and the fact we didn’t have electricity was pretty bad considering our anniversary and my birthday occurred during it.  Talk about an “unfrugal week”.

- We had to throw away all the food in our refrigerator and freezer.  It makes me sick to think of all the wasted food and money.

+ Our electric bill will be less this month than it would have been.

- We had to eat out a lot because we couldn’t buy food or store it.

- My car is acting funny… again.

+ I kept myself busy doing other projects during the week.

- I wasn’t able to have the yard sale this weekend like planned.

- My Dad is in the hospital tonight due to two blood clots in his lungs.

 I am so thankful this past week is over.  We are going to buckle down next month and hopefully be able to save more money than we did this month.

Did the hurricane have any effect on where you live?

Posted under Food

Due to Hurricane Ike, the Money househould has been without power since Sunday.  To say I am having internet withdrawals would be an understatement.  I am tired of not being able to dry my hair and wash clothes.  As soon as we get power back, I’ll be able to check my personal email and respond to comments and get back to posting regularly.  Please keep us in your thoughts.  Thank you to all our faithful readers!  I’ve got some interesting posts coming up, so stay tuned! 

Posted under Personal