tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24035443890246483262024-03-18T22:30:47.430-07:00just Sweet and SimpleColleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.comBlogger208125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-45945844347818170742014-04-02T09:30:00.000-07:002014-04-02T09:30:03.478-07:00Spring Easter Table Decor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zold_V_eoc/UZWK8Etnq-I/AAAAAAAADnM/9v8ySSuM0YA/s1600/Page+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Zold_V_eoc/UZWK8Etnq-I/AAAAAAAADnM/9v8ySSuM0YA/s640/Page+4.jpg" width="640" /></a>This year we went for simple and easy for the Easter Table.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Easter is always a tricky holiday in our family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Trying to squeeze in the morning egg and basket hunt, getting ready for church, then coming home with hardly enough time to put the holiday meal on the table...while still trying to make it festive, keep it tidy for the coming guests, and prepare for the afternoon egg hunt outside.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I am always looking for ways to make this day a touch easier and I started with the table setting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We had white table linens with burlap overlays. Candles and wood crates for centerpieces. And the place settings were a simple page from a book with a DOLLAR STORE decoration at each.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Simple, clean and quick.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I should have taken better pictures, but in the rush of the day, I hardly got any.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Easter!</div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-24410698389764769602013-05-19T09:30:00.000-07:002013-07-21T22:22:54.201-07:00How to Patch Jeans<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Patching Jeans is easy. You don't have to have any great sewing skills either.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My two little boys & somehow my husband all get holes in their jeans. These jeans got this hole in less than three days! I wasn't thrilled. And they are even nice thick quality.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So instead of constantly buying more jeans, I patch them up. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is fast... about five minutes and easy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ohknPQ_C-bs/UZWVQIoWy7I/AAAAAAAADnw/7_rtd5fr8_M/s1600/jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ohknPQ_C-bs/UZWVQIoWy7I/AAAAAAAADnw/7_rtd5fr8_M/s1600/jeans.jpg" /></a></div>
To patch jeans you need a scrap of Jean material large enough to cover the hole AND the "weak" area around the hole.<br />
<br />
<br />
Also, thread to match the jeans you are stitching on. (my thread looks white in these pictures, but it is a matching denim color)<br />
<br />
<br />
Cut the appropriate size of jean scrap & place it underneath the hole, on the inside of the jeans.<br />
<br />
<br />
Pin to secure.<br />
(If jeans are stretchy, pin extra well.)<br />
<br />
<br />
Using sewing machine. Sew forward and backwards (reverse) over and over until all areas of the hole are covered.<br />
<br />
<br />
Your stitching should cover more than just the hole. Stitch past it on all sides, because the area around the hole is weak and prone to ripping.<br />
<br />
<br />
As you can see the stitching is far from perfect, but it really doesn't matter.<br />
When I looked at my name brand jeans that come with "patched holes" their stitching is also imperfect.<br />
<br />
<br />
*These jeans were little boy super skinny jeans,<br />
so fitting it into the sewing machine was a HUGE struggle.<br />
I had to scrunch it really tight, so you can see a better example of proper stitching on the bottom jeans pictured. I had a little more room to work with those than the first.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So in the future try patching your jeans. It saves money...and the lifespan of the jeans.<br />
With little boys, it has saved me so much. And the patches last as I pass the jeans down.<br />
<br />Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-56338394475819864792013-05-18T09:30:00.000-07:002013-05-18T09:30:02.033-07:00Getting Kids Excited to Read: Read Everyday Jar<div style="text-align: center;">
Summer Reading Ideas</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--IQr_YpBv3A/UZWOxLzlRmI/AAAAAAAADnY/KMAbvZm4f2E/s1600/read+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--IQr_YpBv3A/UZWOxLzlRmI/AAAAAAAADnY/KMAbvZm4f2E/s640/read+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whether your child loves to read or avoids it...here is an easy way to encourage daily reading.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Reading Jar. It's full of simple ideas for making reading fun. Pull out a slip each day to find a fun place or way to read. They might read in the shade, under the table, wearing a hat, eating a snack or with mom...all kinds of little ways to excite them to read each day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Read Everyday Jar</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 printable pages of ideas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FiJKYrok8-E/UZWPL_rr9zI/AAAAAAAADng/yUSc-A1fe4Q/s1600/2013-04-17+18.17.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FiJKYrok8-E/UZWPL_rr9zI/AAAAAAAADng/yUSc-A1fe4Q/s320/2013-04-17+18.17.44.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Reading Printables <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?qjyz5hb2yj1xady">here</a></u>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Print, cut and fill up the jar.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy!</div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-31372775818874209882013-05-17T18:39:00.000-07:002013-05-17T18:39:00.611-07:00Scotcharoos: Chocolate Butterscotch Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RGG5_eItTk/UZWJBbxoo7I/AAAAAAAADnA/wX-Cylo23yA/s1600/scotcharoos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6RGG5_eItTk/UZWJBbxoo7I/AAAAAAAADnA/wX-Cylo23yA/s400/scotcharoos.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
These are a crowd pleaser.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of my very favorites and the best part...they are quick and easy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My husband grew up with Scotcharoo's and introduced me to them a few years back.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, they are good. The chocolate with the butterscotch is a perfect match.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Ingredients</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup Peanut Butter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup Sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup Light Corn Syrup</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6 cups Rice Krispies</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 bag Milk Chocolate Chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 bag Butterscotch Chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Directions</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grease a 13x9 inch pan. In saucepan bring sugar & corn syrup to boil. Then add peanut butter. Stir until melted. Then remove from heat. Combine with 6 c. Rice Krispies (I like to have these pre-measured in a large mixing bowl. Then I pour the hot sugar mixture over the Rice Krispies). Spread and press mixture into 13x9 pan. Melt bags of chocolate and butterscotch chips together in microwave about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, depending on microwave. Heat until just melted. Stir then spread over Rice Krispie mixture. Cool in Fridge.</div>
<br />Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-4259950524583413312013-05-16T21:42:00.000-07:002013-05-16T21:42:00.496-07:00Pregnancy: Battling Morning Sickness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zFv5gT_c_m4/UZRVw99bGoI/AAAAAAAADiw/-xcFf4YcjRs/s1600/Maternity+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zFv5gT_c_m4/UZRVw99bGoI/AAAAAAAADiw/-xcFf4YcjRs/s320/Maternity+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Battling Morning Sickness</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Morning Sickness. I don't even know why they call it "Morning" sickness, because I know I'm not alone when I say it is Afternoon, Evening, & all Night long sickness as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FYrChyLzSw/UZRjns2w8tI/AAAAAAAADkQ/FdMB6FMkHzg/s1600/Pregnancy-Symptoms-Before-You-Miss-Your-Period.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_FYrChyLzSw/UZRjns2w8tI/AAAAAAAADkQ/FdMB6FMkHzg/s1600/Pregnancy-Symptoms-Before-You-Miss-Your-Period.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pregnancy is an exciting time...but the nausea really puts a damper on the situation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For me Morning Sickness, is one of the hardest parts of pregnancy. It gets old so fast. But in the attempts to find a cure and make the best of it. Here are some tips and tricks I have found through my last two and my current pregnancy. BUT since pregnancy is so different for everyone and even for each pregnancy...please give me any ideas you might have. As none of these have solved ALL of my problems. And there is the alternative of a prescription. Which I will discuss more below.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Things that help EASE the Nausea:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Preggo Pops</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="200" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6675693.3193;sz=200x200;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463762;pid=TPLL008;usg=AFHzDLsHM-E7ctWE25T3MV-ZqZs5bbqYkg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.unbeatablesales.com%252Ftpll008.html;pubid=616964;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fsite.unbeatablesale.com%2Fimg166%2Ftpll008.gif;width=200;height=200" vspace="0" width="200"></iframe></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Sucking on Mints</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Popcicles</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Flavored Water</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Sucking on Hard Candy</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Mint/Peppermint Gum</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-Tea (Especially Peppermint or Fennel)</b></div>
<br />
If none of these or any other great ideas you have found work, there is always the option of a prescription. With my current pregnancy as well as my last I have had to resort to a prescription for different periods of the pregnancy. Personally, I try to avoid them. It is always a little nerve racking taking medication when pregnant and I don't always like the side effects. But if you do end up needing a prescription, I definitely suggest finding one that DISSOLVES in your mouth/under your tongue. I find them much easier to take and more effective. Too many times, I just found myself throwing up the pill I just swallowed. So dissolvable tablets saved me!<br />
<br />
Another random trick, but it really works for me....<b>Mentholatum</b>!<br />
I use a generic Mentholatum Ointment as "Chapstick" on my lips. The smell totally calms my stomach. Random I know. It also keeps me from smelling the random unwanted smells that make me nauseous. Plus, Pregnancy is known to cause congestion/stuffy nose and this clears me up immediately. A little moisture on my lips is an added bonus. <br />
(TIP: Vick's Brand, says not to use on chapped lips, so look for a brand that specifies. Mine was Walgreens brand and says it is for chapped lips and chapped skin.)<br />
<br />
<b>For Meals & Snacks...</b><br />
I say, go with what your stomach tells you.<br />
But there is always the fall back plan of: Crackers, Fruit, or good old fashioned Peanut Butter & Jelly.<br />
<br />
I find the trick is to eat in small portions and sip drinks throughout day. Too much water or food can trigger the gag reflex.<br />
<br />
<b>And of course, Plenty of Sleep!</b> <br />
A rested body can make such a difference.<br />
<br />
Well, this is what works for me. Or at least works has worked for me at some point, depending on each pregnancy...But, what works for you. I could really use any suggestions!<br />
<br />
<b>More to come on Maternity and Preparing for a new Baby!</b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6675693.3401;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463762;pid=TPLL002;usg=AFHzDLs2Z-QowEoOqjIIVBXG9bSWD0vnhg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.unbeatablesales.com%252Ftpll002.html;pubid=616964;price=%249.00;title=Three+Lollies+PDO12+Preggie+Dr;merc=unbeatablesales.com;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fsite.unbeatablesale.com%2Fimg166%2Ftpll002.gif;width=90;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe><br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-24104687554695249672013-05-15T20:33:00.001-07:002013-05-16T19:07:22.969-07:00Cleaning 101 Series: Kick Off <div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UkiOckmCHsw/UX9dSFV1nDI/AAAAAAAADhE/pOhpVKA7xH4/s1600/cleaning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UkiOckmCHsw/UX9dSFV1nDI/AAAAAAAADhE/pOhpVKA7xH4/s400/cleaning.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Cleaning 101</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was a time I considered myself to be a clean freak. Sometimes a little OCD. I credit my mother, who was very clean and literally vacuumed herself out of the room after tucking us in at night...so we could walk onto fresh carpet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Personally, I feel better, think more clearly, and am so much more productive and happy when my house is clean. But I know not everyone is that way and I also have learned, since having children, that I have to find a balance. <br />
I NO LONGER HAVE THE TIME TO CLEAN THE WAY I DID & WITH KIDS IT DOESN'T STAY CLEAN VERY LONG.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So after several years of trial and error...I have a cleaning schedule and plan that works great for me...hopefully it can help you too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Here is the Basic Break Down:</u></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Daily Quick Clean: (20 minutes tops)</b><br />
<b>A Weekly Cleaning Day: (2 hours)</b><br />
<b>Monthly/Spring Cleaning Duties Day: (1-2 hours)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Daily Quick Clean:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do a "Quick Clean" every day that last AT MOST 20 minutes. Usually it takes me 10 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This includes making beds, picking up, and a simple wipe down of surfaces, etc.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a routine, and once I got the routine down I can do it in 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
1. I begin in my room: Make bed, pick up & put away clothing etc.<br />
2. Bathrooms: Put away items, wipe down counters, sink, and toilet. <br />
This is a QUICK wipe with a disposable Clorox Wipe.<br />
3. Living Spaces: Pick Up & Put Away items. Wipe down kitchen counters & Table.<br />
<br />
Staying on top of this daily, keeps the house under control and tidy. AND makes Cleaning Day easier.<br />
*ALSO, this keeps the house tidy for those unexpected visits from friends or neighbors.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cleaning Day: </b><br />
I have one day a week that is my CLEANING DAY. For me it is Friday. We usually entertain on the weekends, so I like the house to be freshly cleaned. This "day" isn't a whole day, it actually totals 2 hours of cleaning. That is not a lot, but I can get a TON done. I work fast, use a timer, and have a routine.<br />
1. Scrub Bathrooms<br />
2. Scrub Kitchen<br />
3. Dust<br />
4. Vacuum & Mop Floors<br />
I will go into "cleaning details" further posts of this series.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<b>Monthly Cleaning:</b><br />
Each week, I rotate through a "Spring Cleaning" project totaling 1-2 hours. Depending on my week I may tack it on to my cleaning day, or Do it another day. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These jobs include anything from cleaning appliances, vacuuming the couches, washing windows, etc. Tasks that don't need to be done each week (or maybe I should say, in reality, I can't accomplish each week). I rotate through them, so that I don't have to have a huge Spring Cleaning. I like staying on top of it. It keeps the house clean and my job easier to handle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cleaning 101 Series:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So Throughout this Cleaning 101 Series I will break down the routine, how to clean, cleaning tips, kid's chores, and so much more. To follow all of the posts in the Cleaning 101 Series I will continually link them below.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-35763766837053000672013-05-02T12:06:00.003-07:002013-05-02T12:06:52.987-07:00Budgeting 101: You Can Do More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Budgeting 101: Class 10</b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Best Advice/You can Do More</b></div>
<b>You Can Do More:</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Looking for more ways to save?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Couponing- <a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-coupons.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Resources on how to Coupon</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shop: Garage Sales, 2<sup>nd</sup> Hand Stores, Craigslist<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Want to Bring in some extra Money?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sell stuff on: <a href="http://www.craigslist.org/about/sites">Craig’s List</a> or local classifieds like <a href="http://www.ksl.com/?nid=47">KSL</a>,
Facebook, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/sell">Etsy</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/seller-account/mm-summary-page.html">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://sell.half.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?HalfSellHome">Half.com</a>, Garage Sale<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Build your Blog to make money<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Babysit/ Daycare/ Preschool <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yard Work Maintenance<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Clean Houses<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walk Dogs/Pet Sit <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Earn Online Points: such as <a href="http://www.points2shop.com/">Points 2 Shop</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>BEST ADVICE:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spend less than you Make<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Learn to live off of one income<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Save<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pay Yourself a Car Payment...so you can buy with cash<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stick to your budget<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Avoid Credit<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sacrifice now and you can live better later.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
Interested in more ways to save check out these other Budgeting Tips:</div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-coupons.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Coupons</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-how-we-save-money.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">How to Save Money</a><span id="goog_2027016729"></span><span id="goog_2027016730"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;"></a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-price-matching.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Price Matching</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-our-full-budget-system.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Our Full Budget System</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-meal-planning-saves-money.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Meal Planning Saves Money</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-cooking-for-less.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Cooking For Less</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-monthly-grocery-shopping.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Monthly Grocery Shopping</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-my-envelope-system.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">My Envelope System</a></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 22px; line-height: 30px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Groceries and Household Items for $300 a Month</a></div>
</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-24293214139787085182013-04-29T21:47:00.002-07:002013-04-29T22:11:11.415-07:00Budgeting 101: Food Budget Trouble Zones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></div>
<b></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Budgeting 101: Class 9</span></b></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Want to cut your grocery budget and save money?</span></b></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Tips and Tricks for stretching your money.</span></b></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Food Budgeting
Trouble Zones:</b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's important to know where your Trouble Zones are, because once you recognize them, you can find ways to avoid and improve them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Most of the Main Trouble Areas in a food budget come from:</b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Not keeping track of spending & budget</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>-OR-</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Lack of self discipline, whether small or large</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>So here are some of the common Trouble Areas:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">NOT STICKING TO YOUR SHOPPING LIST</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(Little by little it adds up. I wont lie...I don't always sick to my list, but that doesn't make it right. AND I constantly am aware of the room in my budget, to keep from over spending.)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">NOT PLANNING AHEAD</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(This is a big one, and makes some of the biggest budget problems. A little planning goes a long way. Less impulse buying, less expensive convenience purchases, less waste of food going bad, less last minute runs to the store, etc. Meal planning really does save money!)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">SHOPPING TOO OFTEN</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(This seems minor, but the more you shop the more likely you are to buy "extra" things. It seems small but all of those little things add up. Plan ahead and try to shop once every two weeks.)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">SHOPPING WHEN HUNGRY</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(This is a killer. Everything looks good and when you're hungry, your self discipline is weak.)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">IRREGULAR PURCHASES FOR COMPANY/ENTERTAINING</b><br />
<b style="text-align: left;">(</b><span style="text-align: left;">Anything from: the extra food needed, to more expensive cuts of meat...these quickly add to or break the budget. Entertaining, Holidays, etc. all are great...believe me, I love both, so planning ahead and budgeting appropriately can make this work without breaking the budget.)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">TRYING NEW RECIPES</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(New Recipes can push the budget, whether they need new ingredients you don't normally purchase or worse, they are a flop...wasting the ingredients and the money. This doesn't mean don't try new recipes, but definitely look into them, their cost and plan appropriately.)</span><br />
<b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b>
<b style="text-align: left;">STORE GIMMICKS</b><br />
<span style="text-align: left;">(Stores are there to make money. Understand store set up…and how they can fool you. Just because items are in the aisle or on the end caps with fancy signs, doesn't mean they are a great price. Stores place foods and treats by the checkout stands, and right as you enter the store. They know what will sell and encourage impulsive purchases.)</span><br />
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">Take a little time to plan and you can save lots of money on groceries each month, while still eating well!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Interested in more ways to save check out these other Budgeting Tips:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-coupons.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Coupons</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-how-we-save-money.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">How to Save Money</a><span id="goog_2027016729"></span><span id="goog_2027016730"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-price-matching.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Price Matching</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-our-full-budget-system.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Our Full Budget System</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-meal-planning-saves-money.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Meal Planning Saves Money</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-cooking-for-less.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Cooking For Less</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-monthly-grocery-shopping.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Monthly Grocery Shopping</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-my-envelope-system.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">My Envelope System</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FJBDrP+%28just+Sweet+and+Simple%29">Groceries and Household Items for $300 a Month</a></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-39091660244092018112013-02-22T09:06:00.000-08:002013-02-22T09:06:00.509-08:00Budgeting 101: How We Save Money<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b>
<u><b>How We Save Money</b></u><br />
<u><b>Budgeting 101: Class 8</b></u></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Saving money isn't just on food. Although Food and Household needs add up quickly, anywhere you can find to cut back or save a bit helps a lot in the long run.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Thankfully, my husband has a great job, and most of these little penny pinching strategies we don't actually <i>need</i> to do... but that doesn't mean we need to live up to our full paycheck. And it also doesn't mean that saving money and living on a budget lower your quality of life. In fact, we have gone through many different stages of spending and I am so much happier when we are on a budget.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">So I compiled a list of all the little things I could think of that our family does to save money.</span><br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>How We Save Money:<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>We Never buy on credit</u></b> (other than a home)... if we don’t have
the money we save for it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>We Don't pay for Cable or Dish Network.</u></b> We have Basic Channels and Netflix.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>We Don't have Spendy Cell Phone & Plans</u></b> (We have data and text, but we share
minutes and buy the phones you can get free with you plan.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>We buy Off Brand</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many food items, household & cleaning items, hygiene
products, etc. we buy off brand. Very few things do I notice a difference between the brands... But
I do have some things I will buy name brand like, Saran Wrap.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we do buy name brands I look for sales, coupons, etc.
Most everything we wear is a sale item or clearance item. The more you save, the more you can buy.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>We avoid Fast Food</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This also includes drinks.
We <i>avoid</i> fast food and <i>never</i> buy soft drinks. Both of these aren’t healthy and the cost adds
up quickly. As we have cut back it also
is now a reward to our kids instead of an expectation. And Happy Meals are for a “kid date” or
special occasion/reward. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Utilities: </u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-We watch our “energy” to cut back on Utilities. Keep the
thermostat a degree cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Open blinds to let the sun naturally warm up the house, then
close them in the evening to keep the heat in.
Grab an extra blanket and wear slippers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Turn the water off as you brush your teeth, wash laundry
only when you have a full load, etc. All
the little things add up.<o:p></o:p><br />
-More Energy Saving Tips Found: <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2010/02/energy-and-money-saving-tips.html">Here</a></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Entertainment: </u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are there times we do big exciting entertainment? Yes…but more often we have found cutting back
is just as fun and then the big events are even more of a special occasion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span><b>Restaurants- </b>We don’t have to live it up big, to have a great
time. Olive Garden, PF Chang’s,
Cheesecake Factory our the “high end” restaurants we now go to. And we are still having just as much fun as
we did before we cut back. We also enjoy grabing In-N-Out for part of our date
night…it is less of where we eat, but more of liking the food and enjoying the
company.</div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Movies-</b> We don’t go to the Movies as often, and if we do, we
try to buy theater tickets on discounted sales like Groupon, or go to Dollar
Movies, the Drive Ins…or wait for it to come on Redbox and Netflix.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>Other-</b> Use coupons, Groupon, etc to find deals on entertainment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Entertain at home.
Invite friends over…instead of always going out, make it a fun night in.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trade babysitting with neighbors…and plan some dates “at
home” after the kids go to bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Home:</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although I LOVE decorating,
I have learned to work on a tight budget. I garage sale, shop Craig’s List, KSL, Second
Hand, and Clearance. We haven’t bought
new furniture for our home, with exception to my living room couches and still
only because we found a better close out deal on them then I could second hand. And our furniture still looks great and is in
style. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><u>Kids:</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over all my philosophy with kid and baby stuff is: less is
more. And even though I try to be a
minimalist, somehow we always have toys over flowing, and more clothes than we need.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>Baby items-</b> after the baby showers….garage sales are my
next stop and 2<sup>nd</sup> hand consignment stores or craigslist. Lots of people sell things that are in great
condition.<o:p></o:p><br />
I also buy store brand diapers from Walmart and Target, or on great deals through Amazon.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Toys-</b> from holidays, gifts, and “rewards” they have more than plenty and my kids really
don’t need more, but garage sales are AMAZING for toys! So I find we end up getting more than I ever
planned on and I spend very little money. And these garage sale finds can still be used for rewards and gifts.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Clothing:</b> We have been blessed with cute hand-me-downs, but I also buy
a ton on clearance. The Children’s Place
has great sales, Target, and so many more stores.
Personally I find clearance items to be a better buy than second hand
stores. But that could be where I live,
with tons of kids around things seem very picked over.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I take the extra effort to clean, patch holes, and hand down
cloths between my kids. I still end up buying some new clothes, but only a few
and it saves a lot of money.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<b>Kid's Rewards and Responsibilities-</b> I also, don't buy my kids toys and treats at the store. Well, I do, but they don't get them just because I found them...they have to earn them. This has helped us cut back, because our kids no longer "ask" for everything they see at the store. I tell them how much the item costs, or how many reward "tickets" they need to earn to be able to purchase it. I didn't intend this to be a way to help our budget/spending, but it totally has. Also, rewards and treats can be from the dollar store and inexpensive items.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b><u>Auto:</u></b><br />
<b>Oil Changes:</b> My husband changes the oil in the cars<br />
<b>Washing:</b> We wash our own cars, or find a great deal<br />
<b>Maintenance:</b> My husband has "self taught" himself how to fix and repair our cars needs. Yes, there are times he can't do it all...and then he looks around for the best deal<br />
<br />
<b><u>A few other random things:</u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hair Cuts-</b> I cut ALL of our hair. (It really does save up)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>We love free places:</b> Local Libraries, Parks, Splash Pads, etc.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Landscaping:</b> We do our own yard work, purchase clearance plants, and buy yard equipment off craigslist and KSL.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Home Repairs:</b> We do our own repairs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I refill my own <a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2011/04/foaming-soap-recipe.html">Foaming Soap </a>(way cheaper than buying) Find it: <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2011/04/foaming-soap-recipe.html">HERE</a></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We buy our Electronics Refurbished/Used: TV, Computers, etc</div>
<!--EndFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: 16pt;">And yes there are times we SPLURGE.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">You still can splurge...but check your budget, plan for it and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;">Save.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I am always looking for more ways to save and cut back. So share any tips you have!</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;"><br /></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-20242637769301051502013-02-21T08:30:00.000-08:002013-02-21T08:30:00.457-08:00Budgeting 101: Coupons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Couponing</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Budgeting 101: Class 7</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrDBOBDUjM8/URmIHliOKrI/AAAAAAAADZk/XkIbUazCSgY/s1600/Clipping-Coupons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrDBOBDUjM8/URmIHliOKrI/AAAAAAAADZk/XkIbUazCSgY/s320/Clipping-Coupons.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Coupons</b>:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
As I mentioned at first, I am not a fancy couponer. I tried serious couponing in the past and it has some
good advantages. But personally for my
life style it wasn’t as successful. I
didn’t want to commit enough time to make it more profitable. But for those of you that do, then keep it
up!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b>The Couponing Process I do use is rather simple.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
I check through the circulars I get in the
mail, like Red Plum, and I keep any
coupons for things I already plan on buying or … I keep ones for cleaning supplies, Beauty Supplies,
etc. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
When I have my shopping list I check this
website:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
For any coupons that will match the things
I am purchasing. Usually they have a
milk coupon (any brand) and cheese coupon (any brand), cereal, and a few
others I might need.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I then use Price Matching and add my coupons to the price matched items and items on my shopping list at Walmart. I also use coupons at Winco. Neither Walmart or Winco double coupons, but with the better price matching and sale prices it saves a lot.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b>Helpful Sites:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
These sites compile lists of sale items in
local grocery stores. They have a rating for how good the sale is and they
connect the information/link for any
coupons that work for these deals. It is
very convenient!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
It also can be referred to when you want to
know how good a deal/sale is. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<u><a href="http://smartsource.com/smartsource/index.jsp?Link=MKRU3JAAR6CCY">SmartSource.com</a></u><br />
<u><a href="http://www.coupons.com/">Coupons.com</a></u><br />
<u><a href="http://coupondivas.com/">CouponDivas.com</a></u><br />
<u><a href="http://http//www.thegrocerygame.com/">TheGroceryGame.com</a></u><br />
<u><a href="http://wordpress.adsandbargains.com/coupon-database/">SavvyShopperdeals.com</a></u><br />
<u><a href="http://www.mygrocerydeals.com/">MyGroceryDeals.com</a></u> </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b>When Shopping:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
But when I am shopping, I still double check
that the store brand isn’t cheaper than the name brand item with a coupon. USUALLY, I find the store brand is cheaper than a name brand item with a coupon. Unless, the name brand is on sale and the coupon savings can be added to the sale price.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
*BUT, don't misunderstand, "Real Couponers" can find the sales, double/triple coupons, etc to make the deals even better...Which is amazing. But the process didn't work for my life style, so I settle for these simple ways of saving money.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b>Things I find profitable to coupon:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Health and Beauty Products<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Cleaning Supplies<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Cereal<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Milk & Cheese (when it is for any
brand)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Items you ONLY buy the name brand of<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
-Lunch Meat (Land-O-Frost)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
-Detergent<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-44699373532283991442013-02-19T22:41:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:41:27.691-08:00Budgeting 101: Price Matching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">Price Matching</span><br />
<b><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Budgeting 101: Class 5</span></u></b></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIAnmiOc4vE/URmH7N3nfSI/AAAAAAAADZc/XLPADE4AtgQ/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BIAnmiOc4vE/URmH7N3nfSI/AAAAAAAADZc/XLPADE4AtgQ/s1600/images-1.jpeg" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><u>Price
Matching:</u><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I don’t like running to multiple stores.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">So I price match. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I price match at Walmart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Because they encourage it and make it</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">easy and stress free.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">And you can add your coupons ON TOP </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">of the sale price you are "price matching."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Price Matching Can Sound Nerve Racking.</u></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">But…It’s actually
rather simple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I first was rather nervous, but after a
trip I realized it is easy to do.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><u>So here are the Basic Steps:</u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">1. First Find the Deals: </span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Look in the Weekly Ads
(both newspaper and via internet) as well as
great sites such as: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><a href="http://www.grocerysmarts.com/utah/lists/indexg84csg.php?a84ll2">GrocerySmarts.Com</a> <a href="http://www.pinchingyourpennies.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=5">Pinching Your Pennies</a> <a href="http://www.mygrocerydeals.com/">My Grocery Deals</a> <a href="http://savvyshopperdeals.com/grocery-deals/">Savvy Shopper Deals</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">(These sites, show all the stores in your area and the sale prices with a ranking of how good the sale is. Easy to compile and compare)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">*NOTE: You wont save money if you decide to
buy things, just because it’s on sale.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Look for the deals on items you need and
list them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>2. To Price Match You Need to Know:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">-Item's brand (You can match store brand from one store to Walmart's Store brand, Great Value)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">-Size/Amount (pounds, ounces, etc)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">-Variety</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">-Price</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">-The Store
the item is on sale at.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">*<b>The Stores Policy</b>: You can find this on their Store Website or ask at the customer service desk.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Walmart let's you price match if the items above match the item they sell. They do not match Buy One Get One ____, deals. This is because the original price of the "buy one" is different at the varying Stores. </span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u>Example:</u> </span><b>Brand</b>: Kellogg's Cereal, <b>Size</b>: 15-17oz, <b>Varieties</b>: Corn Flakes, Pops & Fruit Loops, <b>Price</b>: $1.99, <b>Store on Sale:</b> Smith's Grocery</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>3. SHOPPING LIST: </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">List, includes all the information
mentioned above. I use a few simple abbreviations to make my list easier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Mine looks like this:</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> <i>Pops: K. Cereal/ 15-17 ($1.99 @S)</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>4. Shop</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">A little organization when shopping, makes the trip stress free and run smoothly. When I go to the store I keep all the items
to price match in the front of my cart, separate from regular priced
items. Be sure to check each item is the
right match (brand, size, variety, etc) as you put it in the cart. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>5. At Check Out:</b> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">When checking out, I put
all of the price match items on first. Keeping the same items together, it makes it faster and much less confusing. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">I immediately tell the cashier that I have
a some items to price match. (Often they ask me before they begin.) And then I
read from my list of sale prices. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">For
example: Roma Tomatoes are $0.69 per pound….Libby’s Green Beans $0.50 a can, I
have ten cans…”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Then I after they have rung up ALL of my items I had them any coupons I have. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">(Both on price matched items and regular items)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">*It is always a great practice to watch as they ring up, making sure they don't make any mistakes. But I rarely find mistakes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><b>NOTE</b>: If you are price matching an item in
multiple varieties, it helps the cashier if you group the same variety types
together. For Example: matching
Pillsbury Cake Mix, put them in groups of Vanilla, Chocolate, Funfetti,
etc. Then tell the cashier how many of
each variety you have. This makes the process faster, the cashier happier, and
you less confusion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><b>Other Tips:</b> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">I prefer the Young Male
cashiers. That probably sounds funny,
but it is actually because they are the fastest. Obviously this isn’t 100%, but I find it is
most of the time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Walmart no longer requires you to bring the
adds, but I always have them in my purse just in case there is any
confusion. I have only used them once in 6 years, but I figure I prefer to be prepared. It also can come in handy when shopping if I need to double check what the variety or sale is.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-13340087411334304102013-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:002013-02-16T08:00:07.538-08:00Budgeting 101: Our Full Budget System <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;">
<b>Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">Budgeting 101: Class 6</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-MEE28qOfQ/URmISt6TWsI/AAAAAAAADZs/RSAGKj4y_oI/s1600/images-7.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R-MEE28qOfQ/URmISt6TWsI/AAAAAAAADZs/RSAGKj4y_oI/s400/images-7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Our Full Budget System...How Do I Budget?</b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> First and Foremost you need to make sure you MAKE MORE THAN YOU SPEND</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So if you aren’t doing that, then either find ways to make more money…or most likely you need to find ways to cut back your spending.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">To begin, do you know what you are spending each month or where your money is going?</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Set a BASIC BUDGET</span></b></u><br />
Following Dave Ramsey's Monthly Cash Flow Plan, great way to begin setting a budget.<br />
It helps you look at your income, the amounts you "should" spend on bills and each area of your budget. It provides a percentage range for each category. This helps you know if your expenses, in each area, are reasonable for your income.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cVp_UCs-uU/UR8Zs1ww7VI/AAAAAAAADco/fxVwFCSXaXo/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-01-07+at+1.30.07+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3cVp_UCs-uU/UR8Zs1ww7VI/AAAAAAAADco/fxVwFCSXaXo/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-01-07+at+1.30.07+AM.png" width="242" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/media/pdf/fpu_monthly_cash_flow_plan_forms.pdf">Dave Ramsey's</a></u> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Here is another great site that explains how to set up your budget. Easy step by step instructions.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqR595nBopY/UR8aitMbHZI/AAAAAAAADc8/zqbdHOiaKjo/s1600/Budget-Snapshot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VqR595nBopY/UR8aitMbHZI/AAAAAAAADc8/zqbdHOiaKjo/s320/Budget-Snapshot.png" width="246" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.organizinghomelife.com/archives/4491">Organizing Home Life</a></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or if you already know how to set up your budget, but just want a basic printable to keep it organized, here is a simplistic Monthly Budget Sheet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_diCL4KDj8/UR8aiBpMcBI/AAAAAAAADc0/XPlH4NNNAoU/s1600/monthly+budget1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_diCL4KDj8/UR8aiBpMcBI/AAAAAAAADc0/XPlH4NNNAoU/s1600/monthly+budget1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://247moms.com/2011/09/monthly-budget-free-printable/">247Moms.Com</a></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">So my basic Budget Routine Each month is simple.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">And it needs to be, or I wouldn't keep up with it...sad I know.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">But of all things, I have to be realistic about my budget, because staying on top of it matters now and for our future.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><u>So Here is what I do each Month:</u></span></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b> First I know my regular Bills: </b>Housing, Utilities, Savings, Internet, Phones, etc.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><b>I also know our regular expenses:</b> Entertainment, Food, etc </li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>I have these printed out on a Budget form, like those found above.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>So all I have to do each month is:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>1. Look over the Budget: </b>I make a quick check of the on the amounts we set for each area of the budget & see if we need to make any changes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>2. Budget the Left Over Money:</b> Deciding where the extra money is going in advance, avoids wasted money. (It's crazy how the money not accounted for can somehow disappear...)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Since our income is pretty regular, I know a good estimate of the amount I will have left over. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This money is where we decide what we would like to do with:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Entertain/Throw a Party? Home improvements? Trip? Piano Lessons? Invest/Save it? Etc.</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">OUR FAMILY BUDGET:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b>Basic NEEDS:</b> </span></u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><i>These are the thing we CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT. That doesn't mean, we couldn't find less expensive housing, cut back on utilities or gas...but for our needs, WITHIN, our budget these are our BASIC NEEDS.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Charity</b>: 10-15% Tithing and Donations <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Housing</b>: 25-35% Mortgage/Rent, Tax, Repairs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Utilities</b>: 5-10% Gas, Electic, Water, Trash</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Insurance</b>: 10-25% Life, Health, Home, Auto, etc<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Transportation</b>: 10% <o:p></o:p>Gas & Auto Maint/Repairs</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Food/Househol</b>d: 5-10% Food, Hygiene, Household</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">*Percentages based off Dave Ramsey...we try to stay as low on the percentages as possible.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Needs</span></u></b> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><i>These Needs, are things we rely heavily upon, but aren’t vital. If money got tight and we had to cut back, we could do, painfully, without these.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Cell Phones</b> $110<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Internet</b> $50</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Miscellaneous</b> $100<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Savings: </b>10-20%</span></u><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">If we had a problem, yes, these would TEMPORARILY be cut...but these are considered a "Set Monthly Bill"...we cut back elsewhere, before we cut here.</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Emergency Fund </b>(6 months worth of current living expenses. Once this is reached, save the money elsewhere)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Car Fund- </b>We pay ourselves, a "car payment" each month. This way, when the time comes to get a new car, we don't have to buy it on credit. It saves a lot of money in the end and makes you much wiser when choosing your car. Because, it is hard to spend that large of an amount of money, after how long you saved for it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Kids/Education Fund- </b>Put away money for Kids Education and future needs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></b>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Retirement & Investing- </b>The more you save now, the better you will be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></b>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Misc. Savings- </b> This savings changes depending on our situation and needs. We often have more than one "account", because we are saving for multiple things. It can be for a House/Down Payment, A trip, Recreational Toys, Electronics, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Wants:</span></u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Here is where we spend on fun. These are what we allocate for spending on ourselves. It also helps us not judge or get upset with our spouse's spending...This money is for them to spend on what they want.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">But, yes...this is the first area of the budget to get cut, when things get tight.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">Although, you might notice, we have things we already cut, because we don't feel they are worth the cost: Dish Network, Hulu, etc.</span></i><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Netflix</b> $7<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></b>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Entertainment/Eating Out/Babysitting:</b> $200<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></b>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b>Personal Budgets</b> (Wants, clothes, etc):<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> -Dallas $100<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> -Colleen $100<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> -Kids $100 (for all kids total)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Extra Money:</span></u></b> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;">We always stash some of it away. I like the feeling that we never need to spend all that we make. Then we take into account things we have been wanting, something random that came up...things not covered in our allotted Personal Budgets or the Miscellaneous Budget.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Ways We Save...We Go without: </span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- We never buy on credit (other than a home) if we don’t have
the money we save for it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- Cable or Dish (We have Basic Channels,)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- Spendy Cell Phone Plans (We have data and text, but we share
minutes and buy the phones you can get free with you plan. We also consider other less expensive plans
like month to month…)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- Trade babysitting with neighbors<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- We buy Off Brand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- We <i>avoid</i> Fast Food
(Because it is unhealthy and the cost adds up quickly)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;">- We watch our “energy” to cut back on Utilities </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-3892663541181124062013-02-14T22:43:00.002-08:002013-02-14T22:44:04.699-08:00Budgeting 101: Meal Planning Saves Money<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Budgeting 101: Class 4</u></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: x-large;">Meal Planning is what makes my budget work. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: x-large;">Because I plan what we eat I know what groceries I will need each month. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: x-large;">And It makes it so I can watch for deals on items I will need.</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ng3fOMc4IQ0/URspCxbRwSI/AAAAAAAADbI/nkz09u3IEv4/s1600/Page+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ng3fOMc4IQ0/URspCxbRwSI/AAAAAAAADbI/nkz09u3IEv4/s400/Page+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">MY MONTHLY MEAL PLAN:</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>Each of these Meals are a Category. Meaning, if it says "Chicken & Potatoes" that means I am cooking Chicken & Potatoes...but it could be grilled chicken, baked chicken, crock pot, etc. It also varies in marinade or flavoring. This way I can change up the variety within the category.</b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>I don't like it to feel like we eat the same thing again and again.</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>Example:</b> one week it will be BBQ chicken and Baked Potatoes, then the next will be Garlic Baked Chicken with Herb Potatoes. </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>AND each category is made TWICE a MONTH.</b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">1. Chicken & Potatoes x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">2. Chicken & Rice x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">3. Meatloaf & Potatoes x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">4. Lasagna & Italian x2</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"> 5. Enchiladas/Tacos/Burritos x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">6. Beans & Rice x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">7. Salsa Chicken Meals x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">8. Stir Fry x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">9. Spaghetti x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">10. Fried Rice x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">11. Soup x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">12. Salad x2</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">Each of these meals doubled = 24 MEALS</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">Giving about 3 Nights for Left Overs & 3 Night for Eating Out/Entertaining </span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">MEALS:</span> </b><br />
<b>(with Recipes linked)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Choose 2 from each category...OR choose one and make double to freeze.</b><br />
<b>This will save you time later in the month.</b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chicken & Potatoes: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2010/02/parmesan-ranch-chicken.html">Parmesan Ranch Baked Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://jujugoodnews.com/easy-baked-bbq-chicken/">BBQ Chicken,</a></u> <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/italian-style-marinated-chicken-meal-89014.aspx">Italian Baked Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2010/02/herb-seasoned-chicken.html">Herb Seasoned Baked Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://unsophisticook.com/honey-lime-chicken/">Honey Lime Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Chicken & Potato Veggie Bake</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/pan-roasted-chicken-lemon-garlic-green-beans-10000000780291/index.html">Lemon Garlic Chicken & Potato Bake</a></u>, <a href="http://www.mccormick.com/Recipes/Slow-Cooker/Creamy-Country-Chicken-with-Vegetables.aspx" style="text-decoration: underline;">Slow Cooker Chicken & Potatoes</a>, <u><a href="http://theenchantedcook.blogspot.com/2011/10/parmesan-crusted-chicken-hellmanns-mayo.html">Parmesan Crusted Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://joelens.blogspot.com/2007/05/sweet-spicy-evening.html">Sweet and Spicy Chicken</a></u>, and Marinade Chicken (Use Your Favorite Marinades)<br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Chicken & Rice: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2012/06/herb-chicken-wild-rice.html">Fast Herb Chicken & Wild Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2010/04/chicken-different-freezer-meal.html">Creamy Chicken & Rice Bake</a></u>, <u><a href="http://jaredandchristinefamily.blogspot.com/2013/01/healthy-eating.html">Sweet & Sour Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2011/06/crock-pot-hawaiian-bbq-chicken.html">Hawaiian BBQ Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Hawaiian Haystacks</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/dinner/cheesy-chicken-bacon-broccoli-and-rice.html">Chicken Bacon Broccoli & Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2011/10/healthy-meals-monday-chicken-and-black.html">Chicken & Black Bean Casserole</a></u>, <u><a href="http://traceysculinaryadventures.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-03-22T09:58:00-04:00&max-results=7#.UR2p847fAxI">Lemon Chicken & Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/182490749/slow-cooker-orange-chicken/">Orange Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.artsy-foodie.com/2008/09/wonderful-tasting-chicken-breast-recipe.html">Cilantro Thai Grilled Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.thecomfortofcooking.com/2012/08/crock-pot-honey-sesame-chicken.html">Crock Pot Honey Sesame Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://mmmcafe.blogspot.ca/2010/01/honey-sauced-chicken.html">Honey Sauced Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2011/10/slow-cooker-cashew-chicken.html">Cashew Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://penniesonaplatter.com/2011/03/09/coconut-chicken-with-apricot-sauce/">Coconut Chicken & Apricot Sauce</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/2011/04/teriyaki-chicken-and-stir-fry-veggies.html">Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken</a></u>, <u><a href="http://whilehewasnapping.blogspot.com/2011/03/20-minute-teriyaki-chicken-rice.html#axzz1RfrNvijN">Teriyaki Chicken</a></u>, Marinade Chicken & Rice, </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Meatloaf & Potatoes: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/old-fashioned-meat-loaf-aka-basic-meatloaf-recipe/index.html">Meatloaf</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/cheesy-salsa-mini-meatloaves-113737.aspx">Salsa Mini Meatloaves</a></u><br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Lasagna & Italian: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2010/04/lasgana-easy-and-freezer-friendly.html">Easy Lasagna</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Beef Lasagna</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.johnsonville.com/recipe/italian-sausage-lasagna.html">Sausage Lasagna</a></u>, <u><a href="http://sherigraham.com/lasagna-casserole">Lasagna Casserole</a>,</u> <u><a href="http://www.domesticfashionista.com/2011/08/easy-slow-cooker-meals-lasagna.html">Slow Cooker Lasagna</a></u>, <u><a href="http://nutritionfor.us/2012/02/eat-skinny-be-skinny-easy-peasy-skillet-lasagna/">Lasagna Skillet</a></u>, <u><a href="http://foodwishes.blogspot.com/2008/02/end-of-chicken-parmesan-as-you-know-it.html">Chicken Parmesan Casserole</a></u>, <a href="http://momonamission.me/?p=5612" style="text-decoration: underline;">Crock Pot Manicotti</a>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Italian Zucchini Skillet</a></u><br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.<br />
*Optional add Bread, Rolls, Garlic Bread, Etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Enchiladas/Tacos/Burritos: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Chicken Enchiladas</a>, <u><a href="http://www.plainchicken.com/2012/03/white-chicken-enchiladas.html#more">Creamy Chicken Enchiladas</a></u>, <u><a href="http://lasvegasphotographercindylarkin.blogspot.com/2013/01/lick-pan-chicken-honey-lime-enchiladas.html">Honey Lime Enchiladas</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/better-than-ever-beef-enchiladas-90553.aspx">Mexican Beef Enchiladas</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.favfamilyrecipes.com/2010/04/our-version-of-cafe-rios-sweet-pork.html">Cafe Rio Smoothered Burritos</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Basic Bean Burritos</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/15-minute-chicken-soft-tacos-55187.aspx">Soft Tacos</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/lean-beef-tacos-74523.aspx">Crunchy Tacos</a></u>, <u><a href="http://yesterfood.blogspot.com/2013/02/oven-tacos.html">Oven Tacos</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/grilled-fajitas-65046.aspx">Fajitas</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/quick-fix-beef-burrito-skillet-105217.aspx">Burrito Skillet</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Enchilada Casserole</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Bean & Rice Enchiladas</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/layered-enchilada-bake-107317.aspx">Enchilada Bake</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.domesticfashionista.com/2011/08/easy-slow-cooker-meals-lasagna.html">Slow Cooker Enchiladas</a></u>, <a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/dinnertime-quesadillas-95150.aspx" style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuffed Quesedillas</a>, <a href="http://octobersmorning.blogspot.com/2012/10/freezer-meal-exchange.html" style="text-decoration: underline;">Cilantro Lime Chicken Burritos</a>, <u><a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/pasta/chicken-enchilada-pasta/">Chicken Enchilada Pasta</a></u><br />
*ADD a Rice Side Dish & vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Beans & Rice: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Lime Cilantro Beans & Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Cilantro Beans & Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Red Beans Kielbasa & Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Three Beans & Rice</a></u><br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Salsa Chicken Meal: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://punchfork.com/recipe/Crock-Pot-Chicken-Taco-Chili-Skinny-Taste">Salsa Chicken Meal/Chicken Taco Chili with Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/cheesy-chicken-roll-ups-109602.aspx">Salsa Chicken Burritos</a></u>,<br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Stir Fry: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/185716238/crock-pot-beef-and-broccoli/">Crock Pot Beef & Broccoli</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/313998/beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry?czone=food/dinner-tonight-center/dinner-tonight-main-courses&center=0&gallery=275652&slide=283420">Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Chicken Stir Fry</a></u>, <a href="http://blommi.com/citrus-glazed-chicken-stir-fry-recipe/" style="text-decoration: underline;">Stir Fry</a>, <u><a href="http://blommi.com/citrus-glazed-chicken-stir-fry-recipe/">Citrus Glazed Chicken Stir Fry</a></u><br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Spaghetti: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Spaghetti</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Easy Ziti</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/smart-spaghetti-meatballs-122105.aspx">Spaghetti & Meatballs</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Chicken Penne</a></u><br />
<br />
*ADD a vegetable side dish: Corn, Broccoli, Green Beans, Salad, etc.<br />
*Optional add Bread, Rolls, Garlic Bread, Etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Fried Rice: </b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://rachelschultz.com/2012/07/14/better-than-takeout-chicken-fried-rice/">Chicken Fried Rice</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/ham-fried-rice-62069">Ham Fried Rice</a></u></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Soup: </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2011/03/taco-bean-soup.html">Taco Soup</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Potato Soup</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Bean Tortilla Soup</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Bean Chile Soup</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Stew</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">Chicken Tortilla Soup</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.mccormick.com/Recipes/Main-Dish/White-Chicken-Chili.aspx">White Chicken Chile</a></u>, <u><a href="http://simplygluten-free.com/blog/2009/11/blender-black-bean-soup.html">Black Bean Soup</a></u><br />
*Add Bread, Rolls, Garlic Bread, Tortilla Chips, Etc.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Salad:</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2010/03/left-overs-seasoned-chicken-salad-and.html">Seasoned Chicken Salad</a></u>, <u><a href="http://eatwholly.com/recipes.html?view=single&rid=181">Taco Salad</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/bbq-chicken-salad/">BBQ Chicken Salad</a></u>, <u><a href="http://fancynapkin.blogspot.com/2011/09/cranberry-almond-spinach-salad-w.html">Cranberry Chicken Spinach Salad</a></u>, <u><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/339845/turkey-cobb-salad?center=0&gallery=275078&slide=262249">Cobb Salad</a></u>, Salad Bar DIY, <u><a href="http://eatcakefordinner.blogspot.com/2011/07/cafe-rio-type-salads.html">Cafe Rio Salad</a></u>, <u><a href="http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/08/28/20-salads-hearty-enough-for-tonights-dinner/">More Salad Ideas</a></u></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">MORE TIPS FOR MEAL PLANNING:</span></u></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b>
<b>WITH MEAL PLANNING helps me know what to make and</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><b> what to buy, but I also use it to make dinner easier.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b>
<b> I also, use the meals above for:</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b> Freezer Meals, "Dump" Meals,</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b> slow cooker, 30 minute meals, "cook once eat twice," etc. </b></span></span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">I plan the type of meal with the time I will have each day. </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">For example, on the days I am out of the house, I plan a slow cooker meal, days I have a little extra time I will make a "cook once eat twice" meal and freeze the second half. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d; font-size: large;"> </span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">To learn more about how schedule these and more on the basics of "MEAL PLANING" check: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2011/03/more-on-meal-planning.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And for more on</span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-22659810244153806182013-02-13T14:35:00.000-08:002013-02-14T11:24:06.923-08:00Budgeting 101: Cooking for Less<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mKkEyPXDoA4/URYG4r-crLI/AAAAAAAADTA/Nn-wnKd6BJY/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Budgeting 101: Class 3</u></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Want to Cook For LESS? Grocery bills can add up very quickly and the way we cook along with convenience foods can really break a budget. So how do you cook for less?</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cy9l7uNP8fQ/URsqE7kScpI/AAAAAAAADbU/zdA4wW9DDM8/s1600/Page+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cy9l7uNP8fQ/URsqE7kScpI/AAAAAAAADbU/zdA4wW9DDM8/s320/Page+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">I wish I was an expert, but I'm not...most of my knowledge comes from learning the hard way and asking around. After plenty of research and trying things out I have a few basic rules that DRAMATICALLY CUT MY GROCERY BILLS.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Now, this doesn't mean you can cook a fun fancy (expensive) meal or make nice food to entertain, but by sticking to these rules you wont break the budget on those special occasions.</span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><u>Rules for Cooking For Less:</u></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #073763;">1. Make From Scratch<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #073763;">2. Buy Store Brand</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #073763;">3. Price Match<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #073763;">4. Meal Plan<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #073763;">5. Buy Bulk<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #073763;">6. Freeze your extras<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #073763;"><b>7. Substitute dried for Fresh Herbs, Less expensive cheeses, etc.</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>**Be Educated and Aware...sometimes items in bulk don't save money, so double check your prices...and once in a while I can find something on sale cheaper than I can make it...but overall these Rules tend to be true.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #7f6000;"><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">ANOTHER WAY TO SAVE ON FOOD:</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></u></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: x-large;">Is understanding what foods are less expensive and what foods are filling.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Food that cost less & are Filling:</u></span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Potatoes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Beans<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Rice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
- Noodles<o:p></o:p><br />
- Soups</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Inexpensive Recipes</b>:</u></span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Meat gets expensive quickly. So Recipes without meat are often much less expensive. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">And they can still be filling and satisfying. Try and rotate in MEATLESS meals </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">to cut down on your monthly food costs.</span><br />
<br />
Beans & Rice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bean Tortilla Soup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taco Soup (use can of chile to substitute for the ground beef)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spaghetti (meatless)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Easy Ziti Pasta<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bean Burritos<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bean & Rice Enchiladas<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3 Bean Chile<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Breakfast for Dinner<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Potato Soup<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Italian Zuccini Skillet<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #660000;">**UPDATED: Recipes can be found: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">HERE</a></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Less Expensive Recipes with Meat:</u></span></b><o:p></o:p><br />
Chicken Tortilla Soup</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lasagna<o:p></o:p><br />
Spaghetti & Meat Sauce</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chicken Penne<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stew<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hawaiian Hay Stacks<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stir Fry<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chicken & Potatoes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chicken & Herb Potatoes<br />
Enchilada Casserole<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
7 Layer Casserole<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wild Rice, Chicken & Veggies<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Enchiladas- Chicken & Rice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Red beans Kielbasa & Rice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sausage Spinach Pasta Toss<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #660000;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #660000;">**UPDATED: Recipes can be found: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?8t466qzm40uph0x">HERE</a></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Lunch:</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Buying/Eating out for lunch is very expensive. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So I pack my husband a lunch each day. The night before after we have finished dinner, I serve him up left overs for his lunch the next day. It cuts on my time preparing a lunch and saves us lots of money.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">For kids and Sack Lunches we keep it simple.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A sandwich, a hot dog, burrito, wrap, etc. The treats and snack foods can get costly, so we buy large bags not individual, store brand and sale items. Cookies and treats are often homemade and stored in the freezer, taking one out for lunch each day. Cut up fruit and veggies, instead of the prepackaged kind and reusable water bottle also cut on costs.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Breakfast</b>:</u></span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Cereal, Poptarts, Frozen Breakfasts, etc are usually more expensive food items. When they are on killer deals, stock up, but to save money and for a healthier alternative here are a list of great Inexpensive Breakfast Ideas.</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">AND ALL OF THESE IDEAS CAN BE HOMEMADE...with increases the health value and decreases the cost!</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b><b> Oatmeal-</b> (not individual packaged)<o:p></o:p><br />
My kids eat this every morning. But if you love the store bought flavored kind <u><a href="http://amylovesherlife.blogspot.com/2012/01/who-likes-saving-money.html">Here</a></u> and <u><a href="http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/2013/01/diy-oatmeal-packets.html">Here</a></u><br />
are great ideas to make your own individual packages in a variety of flavors.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> Toast-</b><br />
Homemade is obviously the best and you can make cinnamon bread, or all kinds of tasty<br />
varieties. Or just try jazzing up regular bread with a little Peanut Butter, Cinnamon &<br />
Sugar, Jam, Nutella, Etc. Be creative.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> Granola</b>- <o:p></o:p><br />
Winco has great prices on the bulk granola, which we regularly buy. But homemade granola<br />
is always better here are some good recipes:<br />
<u><a href="http://aggieskitchen.com/2012/10/22/golden-granola-recipe-from-jenna-webers-book-white-jacket-required/">Golden Granola</a></u> <a href="http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/cranberry-almond-granola-recipe-5849?click=recipe_sr">Cranberry Almond Granola</a> <u><a href="http://www.eatthelove.com/2013/01/how-to-make-granola/">Your Own Granola</a></u><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> Pancakes-</b><o:p></o:p><br />
Make the plain original, or try a new recipe and flavor. Make ahead and freeze, for a fast<br />
breakfast.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b><b> Muffins-</b><o:p></o:p><br />
Make ahead and freeze, for a fast breakfast.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b><b> Waffles-</b><br />
Make ahead and freeze. Pop in the toaster for a fast breakfast.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #7f6000;">Now I am not perfect at all of these and we do have times I need something for convenience...or I love to entertain and I spend extra to do so...but living by these on a regular basis makes a world of difference in my budget.</span><br />
<span style="color: #7f6000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #7f6000;">DO NOTE: I am primarily a stay at home mom. This means I have extra time than those that work all day, so somethings aren't reasonable for everyone. Look for realistic areas you can make changes and money saving ideas that fit your family's needs/lifestyle.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
In the next few posts I will add the recipes mentioned above and more for Meal Planning.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> Keep Checking back for more <a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html">Budgeting 101 posts</a> with more tips and ideas to save money!</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Click: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u> for the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series. </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">(It will be continually updated)</span></b></div>
</div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-63964698849529698122013-02-12T13:28:00.000-08:002013-02-12T13:28:00.319-08:00Budgeting 101: Monthly Grocery Shopping <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Budgeting 101: Class 2</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Are you still WONDERING HOW I SPEND $300 TOTAL on GROCERIES AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS?</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a break down of what I spend and on what each month:</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YiWnGeY8zZA/URX95qaKeQI/AAAAAAAADRw/NXozt5OtH8g/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YiWnGeY8zZA/URX95qaKeQI/AAAAAAAADRw/NXozt5OtH8g/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">{<a href="http://hullsnorth40.com/_Media/groceries.gif">via</a>}</span></div>
<b><span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #351c75;">Because I "MEAL PLAN" & plan my months meals in advance I know the basics I will need each month. These do not use up my entire budget, so I use the remaining money on any other needs and wants.</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">My Monthly Grocery
List:</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Monthly Groceries:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Chicken (15lb) = $26<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Ground Turkey/Beef (6lb) = $10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Milk (2 gallons)= $5<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Cheese (3lb) = $6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Yogurt (4 large containers)= $12<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Cottage Cheese (2) = $2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Eggs (2 doz.) = $3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Bread (4 loafs) = $6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Tortillas (3) = $3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Broccoli (4 crowns)= $3.50<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Spinach (2 bags)= $3.50<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Apples (10) = $4<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Bananas (4 bunches)= $10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Tomatoes (6)= $2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Potatoes (10lb)= $2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Frozen Vegetables (5 bags)= $4.50<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Subtotal: $ 102.50 </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Food Storage Items</span></b>
(used every month)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Rice (6lb) = $3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Oats (2.5-3lb)= $3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Noodles (2.5lb)= $2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Beans (10 cans)= $5<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Spaghetti Sauce (4 lg. cans)= $3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Subtotal: $16</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Monthly House/Hygiene
Needs:</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Diapers (extra large box) =$20<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;">Wipes (350 wipes) =$6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Subtotal: $26</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">GRAND TOTAL: $144.50</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">*Now, these PRICES are STANDARD SALE AND/OR STORE PRICES, but I OFTEN FIND THESE ITEMS FOR LESS...which gives even more money for other things. </span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So this list doesn’t included everything I purchase each
month. This is the <b>basic</b> list of needs
for the month. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The items I <b>know</b> I use
because I have my <b>meals planned</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, looking back at my budget:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Budget: $300<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Groceries and Household = $200<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>Food Storage = $100</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b>I still have $155.50
left </b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">(Groceries and Household: $71.50 & Food Storage: $84)</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">So with this money, I buy other items that don't need to be restocked EVERY month and additional items we may need/want. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">I buy bulk paper products like: Toilet Paper, Paper Plates, etc. These last about 3-6 months, so these get purchases with this spare money as needed.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Also...</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Snacks, condiments, extra ingredients, items for
special meals, hygiene products, cleaning products, paper products, and staples
like flour, sugar, etc. These items are not needed every month so, I buy them
as needed, but USUALLY I wait for a great sale to buy them and stock up.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">In the next few posts I will explain how I use the groceries above to make my MONTH OF MEALS and how I MEAl PLAN.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> Keep Checking back for more <a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">Budgeting 101 posts</a> with more tips and ideas to save money!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Click: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u> for the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">(It will be continually updated)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-77817807767926486362013-02-11T12:20:00.003-08:002013-02-11T15:04:10.311-08:00Budgeting 101: "My" Envelope System<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s320/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Want to read about the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series? Find it: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u>.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Budgeting 101: Class 1</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">“My” Envelope System</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cs5uQn8dUNg/URlO4BwBZpI/AAAAAAAADUQ/nV1WFA6eA9M/s1600/My+Envelopes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cs5uQn8dUNg/URlO4BwBZpI/AAAAAAAADUQ/nV1WFA6eA9M/s640/My+Envelopes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>(Download <a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?9rv55s334dwdxj5">Printable Envelopes</a> at the Bottom to try yourself.)</b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p><b>Have you ever heard of <span style="font-size: large;">Dave Ramsey</span>?</b> </o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p>He gives excellent finical advice. </o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p>He's the man behind: <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/fpu">Financial Peace University</a>, <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/new/baby-steps/">Seven Babysteps</a>, <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/store/prod326.html">Total Money Make Over</a>, and more.</o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p> (Want to know more look: <a href="http://housewife2hostess.blogspot.com/2013/01/budgeting-101-dave-ramsey-way.html">here</a>)</o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">After listening to him and going through his budgeting
systems I really liked his philosophy and his strategies. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BUT</b>…<b>It doesn’t completely work for me. </b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I know that should be a red flag. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">But, honestly I had to be realistic about how
I manage my budget,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">because if it is too hard to keep up on, then I won't follow
through.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">My Issues Were:</span></b><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">-Paying Cash for everything<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">-Different Envelope of Cash for each category.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">-Charting out at the beginning of the month our spending…and
accounting for each dollar.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">...but everything else I loved!</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">NOW I Do think these ideas are great. And if you can, then do them!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BUT...</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">For me, it was too much stress, with kids in the shopping cart, trying to get the exact amount of cash from one envelope for the food items, then
getting some out of the next envelope for household items, and some from
another for baby items, …etc. It was overwhelming and I rarely had the
<i>exact</i> cash in each envelope and it was more work trying to count and keep
track, that in the end…<b>I PULLED OUT THE DEBIT CARD.</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">(I KNOW, exactly what you aren’t supposed to
do.)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>So here is how I “altered” it to fit my needs.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">"MY" ENVELOPE SYSTEM:</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(To see the breakdown of my expenses, look at my Monthly Budget found: <u>here</u>).</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><b>ENVELOPE</b><b> 1:</b></u> ($200)</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Groceries</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Household Items </span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Including: Hygiene, baby needs, etc)</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>ENVELOPE</u></b><b><u> 2:</u> </b>($100)</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Food Storage </span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Long Term Items, Basic Staples & Bulk Paper Products)</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><b>ENVELOPE</b><b> 3:</b></u></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Entertainment</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This includes Eating Out, Dates, Babysitting, and Entertainment</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u>ENVELOPE 4: </u></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Miscellaneous</b>- Anything Else</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Husband</b>- Anything he chooses to spend</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Wife</b>- Anything I choose to spend</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Kids</b>- Clothes, Rewards, School Needs, etc.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>My envelopes DON’T include cash. </b> </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Instead my envelopes include a list of what I spend & </span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">inside the envelopes I keep receipts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">How I use the Envelopes:</span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">On the front of each
envelope, is a list: </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1. The Budget Amount</b> and <b>2. A Running Total. </b></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v54yLHUnX8M/URleiMdLfGI/AAAAAAAADVg/d0jmvlLg5N4/s1600/envelope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v54yLHUnX8M/URleiMdLfGI/AAAAAAAADVg/d0jmvlLg5N4/s640/envelope.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">STEP 1:</span></b> When I get home from the store I write the amount spent on the list, then put the
receipt into the envelope. If the receipt happens to have items in multiple categories, then I put the receipt in whichever envelope that is has more items of that category. (For example, let's say I buy a toy at Walmart, this would go under "Kids", but I just write down the Toy and its Price on the Envelope 4, but the receipt is kept in Envelope 1.) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">STEP 2:</span> </b>Throughout the month I keep a list of what is spent, this
helps me see how much I have left and to ration our spending. (When the designated money from an area is spent...it's gone. IF I <i>really</i> <i>need</i> something, I can spend from my MISCELLANEOUS budget.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>STEP 3:</b> </span>Then at the end of the month I total everything up. Take the
envelope with its receipts and file it away, in our receipts box. Everything is
kept easily organized and takes very little time on my part. (Which means I
actually do it, so it works)</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I can easily track my spending, see how the budget is going and where our trouble spots are.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">NOW HERE IS THE NEXT BIG QUESTION:</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">What do you do with left over money in each area? (…if there is any)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Well there are 2 Choices:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: large;">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">
</span><!--[endif]-->Put it into savings and pat your self on the
back<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="font-size: large;">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">
</span><!--[endif]-->Have it Roll over to the next month in the same
category.</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>There are Pro’s & Con’s to both. </u><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So what I first suggest is pay attention. Is there an area month after month with
money left over? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, then you don’t
need to budget so much for that category.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">But, there are some areas, like Food Storage that I like my
money to roll over. Some months there
are better deals than others and I fluctuate how much I spend.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Also, in some of the more “fun” areas you don’t want to feel
like, I have to spend this or I loose it.
In fact, it is a great motivation to teach you to save. Like entertainment, you can go cheap one
month so that you can splurge on an overnight getaway the next month. Or in my personal budget, I might save up so I can buy a more expensive item.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">BUT, if your budget needs to be tighter and it's hard to make ends meet, then don’t roll it over and instead put it towards the basic needs. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">PRINTABLE BUDGETING ENVELOPES found: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?9rv55s334dwdxj5">HERE</a></u></span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"> Keep Checking back for more Budgeting 101 posts with more tips and ideas to save money!</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Click: <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101.html">HERE</a></u> for the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series. (It will be continually updated)</span></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
And for more on Dave Ramsey Check out <a href="http://housewife2hostess.blogspot.com/2013/01/budgeting-101-dave-ramsey-way.html">Housewife2Hostes</a>s, she will walk you through it.</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-4321220512828824222013-02-09T11:00:00.000-08:002013-02-11T13:17:06.860-08:00Budgeting 101 Series: Monthly Groceries & Household Items 300 Dollars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmsNJmUQ6B8/URM4h8gCdPI/AAAAAAAADQc/sq1LmtGWS2c/s400/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">Want to Learn how to Spend Less Each Month?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">Want some budgeting tips or ideas to save less and get better deals?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">I always do and hopefully all the work I have done to get my budget down,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">will help you in some way.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">So through a series of posts I will walk you through our family budget and the little tips and tricks we use to save us money.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Introduction</b>:</u></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Monthly Groceries
& Household Items $300 a month</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">This budget includes Food, Cleaning Supplies, Diapers & Wipes,
Beauty Supplies, etc.</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And let me begin by saying, we live a fulfilling and enjoyable life and we don’t go
without much.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We are a family of 4. (One in diapers.)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We cook normal food, & we do “spurge” in some areas : </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I only use
butter, we like to use fresh produce and
Chia and Quinoa in my cooking. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No, I'm not a fancy Couponer. </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I use some coupons (a few each shopping trip) but I am not
a fancy couponer and </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I DO NOT base my monthly costs by them.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">So How Do We Do This?</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Here is a simple overview of what I do each month. In the proceeding posts I will go into detail about each of these areas and how to make the most of your budget and ultimately your money.</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>Routine and A Plan </u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
By planning my meals out, I know what to
buy & how much, we don’t waste as much and we don’t</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
“convenience cook or
shop”</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
I know my meals, so I know what to stock up
on when it’s on sale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>Shop twice a month</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
Less trips means less extra spending. It’s surprising how the little extras add up. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
It also means you use up what you buy, less waste.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>I price match</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><b><u>Where do I shop:</u></b> </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
We shop at primarily at Walmart & Winco<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>We buy store brand on most items.</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
(Yes, there are some things I only like
name brand, but most options I find are almost as good. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
In fact I recently converted to Great Value
Oreos…they are almost an exact match.
It’s worth a try!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>Stick to the Shopping List</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
Shop quick and to your list, the longer you
stroll the isles the more things you feel you “need.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>We don’t eat expensive foods.</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
I don’t buy fancy cheese, or fancy organic
meat. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
(But I don’t buy cheap cuts either) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>We cut back on junk food.</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
It adds up the cost fast and the calories.
I wish I could say we don’t eat junk food, but we do. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
We just eat less. I buy them on sale, many have coupons, and
again using store brand. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
I don’t use them in lunches. We use a few boxes of crackers and few bags
of chips a month. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
My kids eat animal
crackers, gold fish, and pretzels for extra<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]--><b><u>Cosmetics and Beauty:</u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
I buy drug store brand make up, hair
products, etc. Some are store brand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->10.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]--><b><u>Baby
Products and Diapers: </u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
I buy store brand,
unless there is a better sale, but usually the store brand still wins. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
(Amazon can have some great diaper deasl) <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left;">
Formula?
Well, I mainly nurse by babies,
(It saves TONS of money) but I use formula for a back </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left;">
up and some conveniences…I
sign up for Enfamil, Similac, etc. samples and they also send lots of
coupons. </div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left;">
I also buy store brand as
well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Keep Checking back for the rest of the Budgeting 101 Series </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>for more ideas and ways to save money!</b></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-84388770403899316822013-02-09T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:44:45.398-08:00Budgeting 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUlSa7wT2RU/URlzHNut5_I/AAAAAAAADWw/i9hhV5_CKzs/s1600/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUlSa7wT2RU/URlzHNut5_I/AAAAAAAADWw/i9hhV5_CKzs/s400/BUDGETING+101+LOGO.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">Want to Learn how to Spend Less Each Month?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">Want some budgeting tips or ideas to save less and get better deals?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">I always do and hopefully all the work I have done to get my budget down,</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">will help you in some way.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;">So through a series of posts I will walk you through our family budget and the little tips and tricks we use to save us money.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Introduction:<b> <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html">Basic Money Saving TIPS</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-series-monthly-groceries.html">(How We Spend $300 on Food & Household Items)</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 1:<b> <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-my-envelope-system.html">My Envelope System</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 2:<b> <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-monthly-grocery-shopping.html">Monthly Grocery Shopping</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 3:<b> <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-cooking-for-less.html">Cooking for Less</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 4:<b> <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-meal-planning-saves-money.html">Meal Planning Saves Money</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 5:<b> <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-price-matching.html">Price Matching</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 6:<b> <u><a href="http://www.justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/02/budgeting-101-our-full-budget-system.html">Our Full Budget System</a></u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b>COMING SOON...</b></span></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 7:<b> <u>Coupons</u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 7:<b> <u>Food Budget Trouble Zones</u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 9:<b> <u>How We Save Money</u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763; font-size: x-large;">Class 10:<b> <u>You Can Do More</u></b></span></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-61888788917039014292013-02-09T00:25:00.000-08:002013-05-03T12:55:02.185-07:00Preschool Practice: Word Family Worksheets<div style="text-align: center;">
It feels like forever since I taught in the classroom, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but now working with my kids at home it reminds me how much I loved it...and miss it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My son is in preschool and loves reading. He's just beginning; so as we are learning the basic skills of reading. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And we are currently focusing on <b>Word Families</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nivDBYVzL_g/UQtDTlAW1II/AAAAAAAADIE/lpfr_BI0jOo/s1600/Word+Families.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nivDBYVzL_g/UQtDTlAW1II/AAAAAAAADIE/lpfr_BI0jOo/s400/Word+Families.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We talk about how they rhyme and how they look alike and how it is a "trick,"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
if you know the family, you can read all the words and read them fast.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So we have been playing lots of fun games, but to further practice the skills, I made some word family worksheets. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After scribbling them on random papers for him to practice each day, I figured I should just print some up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Printable Word Family Worksheets found: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?tmo0oul4tu2k1zc">here</a></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>*TIP: I love Plastic Worksheet Covers! I got mine from the Target Dollar Bins last fall, but even a plastic sheet protector would work. Then just use dry erase markers or crayons and the worksheet can be used over and over.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Additional Word Family Resources:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are some fun resources for Word Family Games. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Word Family Flip Books</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Free Download at <a href="http://positivelylearning.blogspot.com/2013/01/flipbook-word-family-fun.html">PositivelyLearning</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGD1_zUmabY/UQtJbfFv1vI/AAAAAAAADJU/EkLgNlXvdGo/s1600/flipbooks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGD1_zUmabY/UQtJbfFv1vI/AAAAAAAADJU/EkLgNlXvdGo/s1600/flipbooks.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Word Family Egg Twist</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(via <a href="http://www.nurturecreek.com/2009/03/word-family-eggs.html">NurtureCreek</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPmF5nkwaSU/UQtKAGZppqI/AAAAAAAADJc/kMVsYne6HNg/s1600/2009_0331(002).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tPmF5nkwaSU/UQtKAGZppqI/AAAAAAAADJc/kMVsYne6HNg/s320/2009_0331(002).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Paint Chip Word Family Strips</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(found at<a href="http://joyfullyweary.blogspot.com/2012/08/paint-chip-word-families.html?showComment=1347076759964"> JoyfullyWeary</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ARfLgu5vw-k/UQtKwh9db5I/AAAAAAAADJk/5Y6oAiOY_Uo/s1600/IMG_2755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ARfLgu5vw-k/UQtKwh9db5I/AAAAAAAADJk/5Y6oAiOY_Uo/s320/IMG_2755.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you have any of your own fun ideas, please share!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-91065945353213299382013-02-08T16:03:00.000-08:002013-02-08T16:03:00.802-08:00Preschool Practice: Printable Color and Question Words <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
More with Sight Words: Color Words and Question Words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
To go along with my previous posts on Beginning <a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/01/preschool-practice-printable-dolch-site.html" style="text-decoration: underline;">Sight Words</a> and Sight Word Practice</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
I made a few more worksheets for practice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
This set of worksheets includes two pages.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1. Color Words</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
2. Question Words</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
In the worksheets they read, trace, then write the word. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
These are a little more advanced than the Beginning Site Word Practice, but great for once they have mastered the beginning words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbAzW7DGCQU/UQssBa--S6I/AAAAAAAADFw/2A7a9CfkG9I/s1600/sight+words++4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kbAzW7DGCQU/UQssBa--S6I/AAAAAAAADFw/2A7a9CfkG9I/s400/sight+words++4.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(The worksheets come from this larger set seen above)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For those of you working with little ones at home or at school I uploaded the printables to share.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Use them for Preschool, Homeschool, Teaching, or Co-ops, but please don't redistribute. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Download printable Color and Question Words Worksheets: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?rcg62ng3a238vvn">here</a></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
The whole collection and other worksheets check my TeacherPayTeachers Shop: <u><a href="http://www.blogger.com/For%20more%20posts%20Education%20Resources%20and%20Worksheet%20Printables%20check:%20here.">here</a></u>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For more posts Education Resources and Worksheet Printables check: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/For%20more%20posts%20Education%20Resources%20and%20Worksheet%20Printables%20check:%20here.">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-24650768865047359252013-02-02T17:45:00.000-08:002013-02-02T17:45:01.167-08:00Preschool Practice: Sight Word Practice Worksheets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More with Sight Words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So after my previous post on <u><a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/01/preschool-practice-printable-dolch-site.html">Sight Words</a></u>, I decided to make a few more worksheet for practice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These also focus on the non-decodeable sight words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They included additional writing practice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KG7Zc7mThzc/UQsrSW8mQsI/AAAAAAAADFk/yeW_ilj18E0/s1600/Sight+Word+Prac.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KG7Zc7mThzc/UQsrSW8mQsI/AAAAAAAADFk/yeW_ilj18E0/s640/Sight+Word+Prac.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For those of you working with little ones at home or at school I uploaded two of the printables to share.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Use them for Preschool, Homeschool, Teaching, or Co-ops, but please don't redistribute. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Download printable Sight Work Practice Worksheets: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?fjm8aczc936q568">Page 1</a></u> & <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?kjosw5p3580t9ty">Page 2</a></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Find the complete set of these worksheets and more at my TeacherPayTeachers Shop: <u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Colleen-H">here</a></u>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span">For more posts Education Resources and Worksheet Printables check: </span><u><a href="http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Colleen-H">here</a></u><span class="Apple-style-span">.</span></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-34677136370628851552013-01-31T16:40:00.002-08:002013-01-31T20:08:53.270-08:00Preschool Practice: Printable Dolch Site Word Worksheets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Sight Words.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
An important step in early reading.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sight words are often referred in two categories. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1. Commonly used words (so readers should be able to recognize them by site, to speed up their reading)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2. Non-decodable words (tricky words that can't be sounded out)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My little preschooler is not a fan of sight words. He doesn't like something he can't figure out (sound out) on his own. So I made a bunch of worksheets to help him practice and get more familiar with them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This set of sight words includes the most commonly used sight words and the "non-decodable" words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since the Dolch Sight Word lists includes many words he can sound out, I first want him practicing those that he can't. Because to me, these are the most important for beginning readers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o4e4Ty9M3Ko/UQsq8525svI/AAAAAAAADFc/cskIkMkh4N4/s1600/Pre+primer+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o4e4Ty9M3Ko/UQsq8525svI/AAAAAAAADFc/cskIkMkh4N4/s400/Pre+primer+2.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This Set, comes with 2 worksheets. Additional posts and links below for my other worksheets that include all of the Dolch Sight Words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For those of you working with little ones at home or at school I uploaded the printables to share.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Use them for Preschool, Homeschool, Teaching, or Co-ops, but please don't redistribute. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Download printable Basic Site Word Worksheets: <u><a href="http://www.mediafire.com/view/?718n0moxceuqeqp">here</a></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
The whole collection and other worksheets check my TeacherPayTeachers Shop: <u><a href="http://www.blogger.com/For%20more%20posts%20Education%20Resources%20and%20Worksheet%20Printables%20check:%20here.">here</a></u>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
For more posts Education Resources and Worksheet Printables check: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/For%20more%20posts%20Education%20Resources%20and%20Worksheet%20Printables%20check:%20here.">here</a>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-37039305323489978822013-01-26T15:15:00.000-08:002013-01-28T21:53:54.286-08:002 Ingredient Chocolate Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other day I got a bit behind getting ready for a party and needed a fast solution for frosting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I gambled on trying something totally new and something I had never heard of...but knowing it would be super fast, I figured if it flopped it wouldn't set me back but a minute.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I tried it. Cool Whip plus some Instant Chocolate Pudding.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And it totally worked!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrqTMb3ocM8/UP8VGuXtgNI/AAAAAAAAC8I/kKzDb9-NJO8/s1600/2+ing+frosting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrqTMb3ocM8/UP8VGuXtgNI/AAAAAAAAC8I/kKzDb9-NJO8/s640/2+ing+frosting.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It actually tasted really good. Light and whipped with a mousse texture. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will definitely do this again and trying other flavors of pudding as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2 Ingredient Chocolate Frosting</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Tub of Cool Whip (Frozen whipped topping) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3-1/2 of Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix (3.5 oz package)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Directions</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thaw Cool Whip. Fold in pudding mix until combined. Pipe onto Cupcakes and chill.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(after chilling for roughly an 1 hour, they hold up fine at room temperature)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*Store brands for both the whipped topping and the pudding work just as well.<br />
<br />
P.S. this little Wilton Cupcake Caddy...is definitely the way to go for transporting cupcakes.<br />
I love that all the frosting doesn't bump and smear on the surrounding cupcakes.<br />
It's definitely worth a try!<br />
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693958.3752;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802464054;pid=540112;usg=AFHzDLvSlf96EprwkzkJsaC0N_5jthDPPg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-540112%252F;pubid=616964;price=%2425.00;title=Wilton+Ultimate+3+in+1+Plastic+Caddy;merc=Sur+La+Table;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-540112%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-540112_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=135;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #222222; font-family: 'Josefin Slab'; font-size: 17px; line-height: 23px;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Linked to these Parties: <a href="http://justsweetandsimple.blogspot.com/2013/01/link-parties_23.html" style="color: #58a194; text-decoration: none;">Here</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Check out all the projects they have to share.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-48166783367261634622013-01-25T15:03:00.000-08:002013-01-25T15:03:00.326-08:00Funfetti Birthday Cookies.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are the simplest cookies around and for some reason the funfetti and white chocolate chip combination is always a huge hit!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Plus, the festive color is perfect for a Birthday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhJ4SjtXaSw/UP8VMxtY9CI/AAAAAAAAC8Q/-wnB5RWusM0/s1600/birthday+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhJ4SjtXaSw/UP8VMxtY9CI/AAAAAAAAC8Q/-wnB5RWusM0/s640/birthday+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Funfetti and White Chocolate Chip Birthday Cookie Recipe</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Ingredients</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. butter, melted</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 funfetti cake mix</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 bag of white chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Directions</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix melted butter, eggs, and cake mix together. Once combined mix in the white chocolate chips. Bake for 8-10 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*use parchment paper for a fast clean up</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Easiest cookies around!</div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2403544389024648326.post-89021624199047446482013-01-23T14:58:00.000-08:002014-03-20T18:18:20.394-07:00German Chocolate Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I must confess, I only make German Chocolate Cake once a year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On my husband's birthday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kkJHPwYzd3E/UP8VOD98AQI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/fmDwHudXQ8w/s1600/german+choc+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kkJHPwYzd3E/UP8VOD98AQI/AAAAAAAAC8Y/fmDwHudXQ8w/s640/german+choc+cake.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Having not been a huge fan of the frosting, each year I try a different recipe hoping for something a bit better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
This was the year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
The frosting wasn't too dry nor too runny.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Since we aren't huge fans of nuts in our desserts I usually leave them out of the recipe, but this year I tried candied pecans and what a difference!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
And to avoid the overly sweet effect, I used a chocolate cake recipe using cocoa instead of a milk chocolate recipe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
And the result was delicious!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>German Chocolate Cake Recipe</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Ingredients</b>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 c. butter</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1/3 c. cocoa</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 c. water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
2 c. flour</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
2 c. sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1/2 c buttermilk</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 1/2 tsp soda</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 tsp vanilla</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
3 eggs</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Directions</b>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Grease pans. Bring butter, cocoa, and water to boil. Cool. Mix in flour and sugar. Then add buttermilk, soda, vanilla, salt and eggs. Bake 25 min. at 375 degrees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Frosting</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 c. sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 c. evaporated milk</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1/2 c. butter, cubed (not margarine)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
3 egg yolks, lightly beaten</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
3-4 c. coconut</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
1 c. candied pecans, chopped</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Directions:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
In a sauce pan, combine sugar, milk, butter and egg yolks. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until thickened and a thermometer reads 160 degrees, or is thick enough to coat the back of a metal spoon. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla. Fold in coconut about a half of a cup at a time, until desired thickness. Fold in chopped pecans. Refrigerate leftovers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b>Tip</b>: Want to make beautiful cake decorating all that easier? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
Try a revolving round cake stand. The sides come out smooth! And you don't need to be a professional.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="320" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693958.2993;sz=320x320;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802464054;pid=611475;usg=AFHzDLtJ_-wRn1HuaHV5xAhTiKG1cq4G1w;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-611475%252F;pubid=616964;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-611475%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-611475_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=320;height=320" vspace="0" width="320"></iframe><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Colleenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06330824067112591632noreply@blogger.com0