We all know it's coming, but still it seems as if spring break or another school holiday has arrived and you have no idea how to keep the kids occupied. Here's an assortment of fun activities to get you started. Some are family-based, while others, depending on the age of your kids, can be done with … [Read more...] about Fun things to do with kids on spring break and other school holidays
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12 fixes that will get you a higher price for your house
If you’re looking to sell your home quickly and for top dollar, there are some lesser-known words that match the importance of the famous real estate phrase "location, location, location." Those all-important words? Curb appeal. As the saying goes, "You don’t get a second chance to make a … [Read more...] about 12 fixes that will get you a higher price for your house
18 cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects
You bought a new home, and the list of projects that need to be done is larger than your bank account. Or, the home you bought years ago is looking a little dated, and you don’t have the money to hire someone to give it that much-needed face-lift. Many easy do-it-yourself projects that will … [Read more...] about 18 cheap and easy DIY home improvement projects
How to find a reliable, honest home contractor
For most homeowners, the hardest part of any home renovation project isn’t the work itself, it’s finding a competent and reliable contractor to do the job. Installing kitchen cabinets, knocking down a wall or tiling the bathroom is simple compared with the struggle of hiring a quality contractor who … [Read more...] about How to find a reliable, honest home contractor
Projects to bring your 1950s house into the modern age
Perhaps you’ve inherited your grandparents’ house. Or, maybe the best house you could find was a 1950s place that looked like your grandparents’ house. You may actually be lucky. A house built in the 1950s can be easily and fairly inexpensively remodeled into a home that looks modern. … [Read more...] about Projects to bring your 1950s house into the modern age
5 things to consider when buying a used lawn mower
One of my readers, Amanda, recently moved into her first home with a yard and grass that needs cutting. "It's huge," she told me, "and I don't know what to do. Is it OK to buy a used lawn mower or does it have to be new?" That's a great question. Whether your old lawn mower has finally called it … [Read more...] about 5 things to consider when buying a used lawn mower
Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist
It's always fun to get new stuff, and even better if you can get what you need for free or at bargain-basement prices. Personally, I also like getting rid of stuff I no longer need. I find I'm more productive and more relaxed in a less-cluttered environment, but I hate creating more garbage. … [Read more...] about Online yard sales, beyond Craigslist
10 Depression-era hacks and frugal living ideas to save money now
It’s time to look at real ways to save money during trying times. During the Great Depression, people employed 1930s frugality and simple-living tricks to save money and survive the lean years. We can take a page from their book and do it again. Here are 10 Depression Era hacks and frugal living … [Read more...] about 10 Depression-era hacks and frugal living ideas to save money now
Can Costco membership save you money?
Many people seem to have a love-it-or-hate-it attitude toward warehouse stores, but I am a proud card-carrying Costco member because it does save me money. Here's how I save money at Costco and avoid the (expensive) pitfall of overspending on bulk goods. With only two in our household, we … [Read more...] about Can Costco membership save you money?
No sled? No problem. 17 DIY ideas
If you're in the South where snow is a rarity, or you've been caught unprepared for an early season snow, you may find yourself in a conundrum when the white stuff starts pouring down. Lots of snow, no sled. Maybe you're one of the lucky few with a store-bought sled. You'll be the envy of the … [Read more...] about No sled? No problem. 17 DIY ideas
11 ways to get free or cheap ski lift tickets
Skiing and snowboarding may not be cheap hobbies to pick up, but despite the cost of equipment and full-day lift tickets, there are plenty of ways to save money. After all, who wants to pay $200-plus to hit the slopes when they can have the adventure for much less? Follow these tips on getting … [Read more...] about 11 ways to get free or cheap ski lift tickets
How to start a minimalist wardrobe
Brent moved in recently, and can I just say? The boy has a lot of stuff. Holy cow. In fact, I think he has more clothes than I do. Which is fine, because I really don’t have very many clothes. I teased him a little about it, and he got rid of a few more shirts, but the fact of the matter is, I … [Read more...] about How to start a minimalist wardrobe
AMC Theatres offers blockbuster savings on Discount Tuesdays — $5 for a limited time
Going to the movies is a fun adventure, but it can also take a big cut from your entertainment budget. That's why bargain hunters are always "so dramatic" about saving money at the box office. It's an essential part of the plot on how to go to the movies on the cheap. And loyalty pays … [Read more...] about AMC Theatres offers blockbuster savings on Discount Tuesdays — $5 for a limited time
16 cool things to do with used Christmas cards
Every year before Christmas, our mailbox fills with holiday cards from family and friends. I hang them on the refrigerator or banister during the season for display, but once the holiday decorations come down, I’m always wondering what to do with the old cards. Recycling is a better option than … [Read more...] about 16 cool things to do with used Christmas cards
Christmas dinner to go 2022
Celebrate the holidays, or just the end of the year, by gathering around the table. If you're looking to avoid all the cooking that comes with these celebrations, consider ordering a fully cooked Christmas dinner to go so you can spend more time with your family than in the kitchen. You can … [Read more...] about Christmas dinner to go 2022