My sister and I getting ready for Halloween

I grew up in a lower-middle class home. We had the basic necessities but extras such as store bought halloween costumes were something that we just didn’t buy. Don’t get me wrong, there were a few time when we were able to do that. However we found that usually the quality wasn’t very good and the costumes did not last very long. My mother decided to instutue a new costume policy in our house, we had to make our own costumes. This may sound cueul but actually it was a blast! My sister and I were discussing this recently and she said, “half the fun was seeing who could be more inventive…and usaully i would lose.” Some of my happiest memories were putting together our costumes.

My sister and I would brainstorm for weeks about what we wanted to dress up as for Halloween. Once we had decided what we wanted to be, we would set to making our costumes. We would usually go the thrifts store and find pieces that would work for our costumes. The thrift store always had wonderful surprises for us. From there we would raid our closets and our mother’s closet. We could usually put together a costume for under $10. My mom would do our make-up to go along with our costumes. We would have so much fun that our friends soon joined in as well, and stated making their costumes too.

The funnest part of Halloween was making my costume with my sister. We always had so much fun.

Some of our thrift store costumes included:

A Geisha- made with a silk Japanese robe found at the thrift store

A 1950′s Woman- Made with a vintage dress and jewelry from the thrift store

A witch- Made with a black dress that we shredded ends of.

Fall (the season)- Made with sprigs of fall leaves from the dollar store

A mouse- Made with an old gray terry-cloth robe found at the thrift store, and a pair of store bought mouse ears.

Cleopatra- A large white sheet draped across like a Egyptian dress bought at the thrift store.

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I have been a Martha Stewart fan since I was a teenager. My mother and sister used to make fun of me for my Martha Stewart obsession. I have always admired how she has such attention to detail and makes sure that things are done properly. I do recognize and always have, that she tends to go a bit overboard on some things. I have been a loyal reader of her magazine and I used to watch her show on NBC. I bought her products and I was even going to go to a book signing.

As the recession hit, I continued to watch her show. She had on guests like Jim Cramer who was talking about stocks and the stock market. While this is helpful to some, it is not helpful to all. While the rest of the country geared up for the recession, to me it seem as if it was business as usual at Martha Stewart Omnimedia. I watched her show to see if she would have money saving tips for the average American household, but I never saw anything of the sort. Eventually I got fed up and just stopped watching her show. Last week I read an article that said that viewership was down for her show.  I was not surprised.

My annoyance did not stop with her television show either. I continued to read the magazine but I soon found myself feeling betrayed. I felt like the Martha magazine was targeted to a different audience, one that had not been effected by the recent recession. Recipes and crafts in the magazine still required pricey ingredients and pieces. While she talked about the recession did she actually realize what the average middle class household was going through? The final straw for me was a piece about what every woman should have in their closet. While the pictures were beautiful, the clothing was outrageously priced.

I eventually started reading the magazine Real Simple. I like this magazine because I feel like it has the same quality as the Martha magazine but that it is more accessible to the average middle income house hold. They too have their out- of touch artciles too, but not as bad.

Even though I have been annoyed by Martha Stewart’s constant bragging about the vacations she goes on or the show about designer dresses, I do not hate her and I occasionally do watch her show.  I just wish that she would realize that we aren’t all millionaires and target her show that way. I bet if she did, her ratings would go back up.

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Harvest fresh from the Garden

One weekend not to long ago I received my first lesson on how to can tomatoes. I have always been interested in the process but I have never had the chance to learn until now. My mother-in-law called me one Saturday and asked me if I would like to learn how to can tomatoes from their garden. I am always up for learning new things, especially if it was save me money down the line. So off I went to learn how to do it.

The process was relatively simple. Here is a quick breakdown.

1. Wash your tomatoes in a cold water bath to wash off dirt. Inspect them for holes, mold and anything else that you would not want to eat.

2. Boil your washed tomatoes  for about 2 minutes or until the skin starts to peel.

3. Peel the skin off the tomatoes, cut into medium size pieces and put into a bowl

4. We choose to leave the seeds in our tomatoes so we simply mashed them with a potatoe masher.

5. We made sure to boil our Mason jars and lids prior to starting this process- This is VERY important.

6. We filled each jar, leaving about 1/2 inch unfilled at the top.

7. We submerged each jar in boiling water, using a canning pan, until each jar made a “pop.” You must wait until you hear the “pop” noise to know that the jar is sealed. Do not store jars that do not seal as the  contents will spoil.

I had a lot of fun learning how to can tomatoes. I think I may actually do it again in the future.  If you are interested in canning, I would picking up a book on how to do so at your local library. The process may look overwhelming but it is actually pretty easy. Happy Canning!

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I love Halloween, it is my favorite holiday of the year. This year I decided to host a halloween dinner in my home. My goal was do throw my party as inexpensively as possible. I scoured the internet religiously for ideas for my spooky menu. I finally figured out what I am going to serve, and I will share it with all of you.

As a rule, I do not serve “gross” food. I came across many recipes that were so unappetizing that there was no way that I would ever eat it, such as kitty litter cake. (which looks like a box of used kitty litter) So without further ado here is my Spooky Menu.

Appetizers

Deep Fried Blisters with Blood Dipping Sauce (Deep fried ravioli with marinara sauce)

Crushed Mummy Brains with bone shaped bread (Garlic Hummus and pita bread cut into the shape of bones)

Steamed Maggots (Gnocchi thats been cooked)

Pumpkin Cheese ball with crackers

Moldy Monster Brain Dip with skin pieces to dip (Spinach dip in a hollowed out bread bowl, using the innards of the bowl for dipping)

Dinner

Roadkill Spaghetti Sauce on a bed of worms (Marinara with meat on top of linguini)

Poison Leaf Salad (Basic salad with many colors of lettuce leaves)

Garlic Bread

Dessert

Pumpkin Pie with whip Cream on top

Chocolate worm Mousse

Recipes

Deep Fried Ravioli

This Recipe is super easy and looks like it was very difficult to make.

1 package of pre-made ravioli with cheese filling

1/2 cup of milk

1 cup of Italian Bread crumbs

3 cups of oil heated to 350 Degrees

Simply dip each ravioli in the milk, then into the bread crumbs and then into the oil.

Make sure to coat each ravioli completely with bread crumbs.

When you fry your ravioli do not crowd them in the pan. they cook for about 3 minutes. Make sure to watch them. They will need to be flipped half way through frying.

Place the ravioli on paper towel to absorb excess grease when done.

Steamed Maggots

1 package of pre-made gnocchi that just needs to be boiled
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 cup of olive oil, heated over medium flame in a frying pan
3/4 cup of parmesan cheese (optional)

Boil the Gnocchi according to the directions on the package or when they begin to float. Scoop them out of the pan and put them into the hot frying pan with oil. Fry the Gnocchi for 1-2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes and cheese. Place a toothpick in each piece of Gnocchi and arrange on a creepy platter.

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

1 store bought cheese pall
2 olives that have been cut width wise (eyeball Shape)
1 slice of red pepper, cut into a jack-o-lantern mouth shape

Push olives into the cheese ball to make eyes and red pepper to make the mouth Add crackers.

Moldy Monster Brain

1 Small to Medium Sized Bread Bowl
2 cups of Spinach Dip (I buy mine pre-made from the store)

Hallow out the bread bowl, reserving the inside. Scoop the dip into the bread bowl. Tear the reserved bread into dipping size pieces. You can make a face on the bowl like the cheese ball above.

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Every fall I set aside a little bit of money and I revamp my wardrobe. I try to replace articles of clothing that I have either ruined over the past year or have not held up. I usually try to stick to staple pieces, which are garments in a wardrobe that will not go out of style. A while button down shirt is an example of a staple piece for a wardrobe. I also usually buy a trendy piece or two for the season. I try to keep my trendy piece very inexpensive, because after all, who knows how long they will be in style.

This year before my annual wardrobe revamp, I took stock in what I already had in my closet and what was missing. I made a list and followed it strictly. Prior to shopping I went to the mall and just browsed. I purposely left my pocketbook at home. I know what you are all thinking… Jackie the mall is the most expensive place to shop…. Yes, the mall can be the most expensive place to buy clothing but, if you are dedicated you can find excellent deals.

When I did go back to the mall to actually buy clothing, I asked my sister to tag along. Having someone with you who will be brutally honest about how you look in something is very important when updating a wardrobe. As we walked through the stores, I was shocked at how pricey everything was.

My sister asked me if she could pick out an ensemble for me to try on and I said that she could. She picked a beautiful outfit; trouser jeans, a teal top and a cropped jacket. It looked like a million bucks, but it also costed close to it too. I really liked what she picked out but it was just too pricey. She was cross and remarked to me that I should go back to the thrift store. I disagreed with her and explained that there are deals to be found in the mall but one must be extremely choosy.

I ended up buying a pair of trouser style jean, which my sister had picked out. When I got to the register, I was informed that a second pair of pants were completely free! So, in the end, I found a great deal, I bout two pairs of trouser- jeans for under $50. The jeans were the only pieces of clothing that I purchased from the mall.

I finished my fall shopping at H&M. I highly recommend this store. Their prices are extremely reasonable. I ended up spending under $100 there and got everything I needed. While the thrift store can be wonderful, so can buying clothing from other stores. The main idea here is to keep in mind value. Is a shirt really worth $30? How much will you wear the piece? Will it last the test of time?

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I have always taken pride in how my front lawn looks. I believe that it is a representation of one’s home. In years past I have usually done the yard work myself. I have also spent quite a bit of money on my landscaping in the past. This year, however, my landscaping is going to have to be done on the cheap. I am collecting tips and ideas on how to make my yard look as beautiful as possible for as little as possible. I thought that I would share my what I have learned in the past couple of weeks with all of you.

First of all, I have learned that planting from seeds is much less expensive than buying plants that have already started growing. But, if you are like me, with only a slightly green thumb, this may not work for you either. Seeds seem a bit intimidating to me, they’re just to easy to kill. However if you are seasoned professional, go for it. I will be buying the already grown plants, in my experience, they’re a lot harder to kill.

Be imaginative when it comes to planting containers. Lots of things can double as a flower planter. If you like a more traditional look, keep an eye out for a good sale on them. In my experience, it is a good idea to buy a quality piece for a bit more money because the piece will last for many planting seasons. I caught a sale at Target a few years back, and the planters that I bought are still going strong. If you are however in need of some planters, I would suggest Ikea. They have wonderful plant pots and window boxes at very reasonable prices. I think I will be making a trip to my local Ikea and pick up some planters.

Overall, look for a deal when it comes to landscaping. Flowers can always be bought cheaply. I heard recently that The Home Depot is the place to buy flower this year. I saw a report on my local news saying that they had slashed prices even further to help those who are pinching their pennies. If you do the landscaping yourself, you not only have a beautiful yard to enjoy, but you will be left with a sense of pride of what you created. Be brave, go for it! I bet you will be amazed at what you can create.

If anyone has any ideas or tips to save money, on landscaping please let me know so I can pass your tips along. Happy Landscaping!

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In the past few months as the economy has continued to deteriorate and materialism is being stripped from people, we are having to reevaluate how we look at others. During times of crisis we learn how far we can be stretched and who we truly are. During these economic times, people are having to make tough decisions and are having to give a lot more of themselves then they did before.

My husband and I recently had a discussion about how the value of a person has been measured by the wealth that they process rather than their character. As Americans, we are not shy like other cultures about discussing our finances. We are proud when we have gotten a good price on something.

Many people have defined themselves by their wealth. Now with the downturn in the economy, people are loosing what they have. People are having to show their true colors. The days of a pseudo-wealthy facade are over. Many of these people don’t know how to define themselves apart from their money.

I say that is time that we go back to valuing people based on their character, not the balance in their checkbook. While this phenomena may not effect all of society, it does effect many Americans. I am pleased that this country is “going back to basics.”

The first place to start is how we teat each other. The “golden rule” still applies no matter what the economic situation. For those of you out there who do not know what I am talking about, just look at how rude people are when behind the wheel of their cars. There is a complete lack of common curtsey for our fellow Americans.

We all have value and deserve to be treated with respect. What is the point of being a millionaire if you have spent all of your time following that goal, and have lost the ones you love in the process. The value of people should be measured in the good deeds they do.

Times are rough, life is harsh. We as a country are going through this. I know that not everyone will agree with me, but that is okay. However, take the time to be courteous, you never know if the person behind you has just lost their life savings, their job, or their home.

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Tis the season for Spring Break for many students out there. While thoughts of Spring break usually gravitate towards fun vacations in sunny warm destinations, many are cutting back this year due to the economy. However, just because funds may restrict big travel plans for this upcoming Spring Break, fun is still out there to be had for all ages.

I grew up in a household, where my parents always seemed to struggle with financial obligations. I spent many Spring Breaks at home with my younger sister, while our friends were jetting off to islands and Disney World with their parents. While our parents could not afford such elaborate vacations for my sister and I, my mother always went out of her way to made sure we had a great time. We spent most spring breaks hosting sleepovers, having movie marathons, and playing outside.

As my sister and I got older, my mom would take us on day trips into Chicago for the day. While this may sound really expensive, it was not. In my family, it was understood that we walked, no cabs for us. We would be so excited to go, it did not matter how far we wold have to walk. At one time, the museums had free days that we’d go to. Mom would pack a lunch for us and we would take the train into the city. The whole day would maybe cost us $40. We always had a blast.

My mother had another ingenious idea, to take a car trip to see our cousins and family in Nebraska. Every Spring Break for almost 10 years my mom would pile my sister and I into the car and down I80 we would go. We would stay with family to minimize costs. My sister and I were lucky to have cousins close in age. We would play for a week strait, while my mom had time to visit with family as well.

I found that my most favorite Spring Breaks were the low key ones. One year when my sister and I were in high school she decided that we would be allowed to re-do our bedrooms over the break, after all paint is cheap. We each helped work in each other’s rooms. We had so much fun. It was a wonderful treat.

So, keep in mind, Spring Break does not have to be outrageously expensive. Just remember to keep it loose and fun. Find fun things that you can do cheaply and enjoy your time off!

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When I think of brunch, I think of elegant food and mimosas. I also think about how expensive it can be to host a brunch in your home. I recently had the pleasure of having my mother and her boyfriend to brunch at my house. I love to entertain, but it can be pricey.

I was delighted at the thought of having my mother over for the first time since I had moved into my new home. However, the dread of how much a brunch meal was going to cost set in. Rather than freak out about the situation. I decided that I would spend as little as possible and still have a wonderful brunch. Brunch is supposed to be a mix between lunch and breakfast foods.

I started my planning with by looking online for traditional brunch menus. I searched many websites so I could get a well rounded idea of what to serve. After I had a good idea of what kind of food I wanted to serve, I looked up some brunch recipes. I took stock of what I already had in my pantry and went from there. I found some wonderful recipes on the Food Network website. Not only were some of the recipes inexpensive to make, but they were sophisticated. From these recipes, I made a shopping list.

Once I got to the grocery store, I priced out everything I would need. I chose generic or store brand goods where I could. I spent less than $15 on my whole meal! My brunch, looked beautiful and tasted delicious. It looked as if I had spent a fortune. I simply took everything I had bought and put it in nice serving dishes. My table looked beautiful.

We all had a wonderful time. My guests were very impressed with all of the yummy foods that were available. I will include my menu for those of you who are interested. As always, continue to enjoy entertaining in your home, just remember it does not have to be expensive to do.

Brunch Menu

Fluffy scrambled eggs with a dash of seasoning salt

Cinnabon cinnamon rolls from Pillsbury

A cheese filled coffee cake (store bought)

A container of “mini muffins” which included blueberry, lemon and bananna nut (store bought)

A bag of frozen blueberries, strawberries and raspberries

Fried potatoes with onion

Coffee

Tea

Orange Juice

Milk

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It comes as no surprise that times are hard, and seem to be getting harder. Many Americans are having to decide what bills they can afford to pay. While budgeting and careful planning may help, sometimes there is just a shortage of available funds to pay the monthlies. As, the cost of living seems to continue to rise, the dollar seems to be stretched further than ever.

When you have missed a payment or are late on a payment these days, creditors are quick to let you know it. While you are clearly do owe them, do not allow yourself to be tormented and harassed by creditors. You have rights and there are laws for your protection from harassing creditors.

Unfortunately, I have had to start making tough choices recently. I just do not have enough money to pay everything on time. I like many Americans am doing the very best that I can.

I was prompted to write this post by an event that happened this week. My husband and I live in a very nice community, which we usually do not have a problem with. Last week, I received a call from our town’s water department. My check had been returned. I was so embarrassed, it had merely been an accounting error on our side. I returned the call to the water department to let them know that I would fix this mess right away. In the same phone call, they said that they would not take a check from my household anymore, due to my irresponsibility. Instead of arguing with the woman on the phone, I told her I would drop off the payment at the end of the day.

Two days went by since I had re-paid my water bill. I thought all was fine, until I got a call from the water department. The woman left a message on my phone at 8 am. in the morning. Her message that was left on my phone was incredibly rude and demeaning. Apparently I had not paid the bill correctly, which was a simple miscommunication. In the message she went on to demean my character and my husband’s character. I was shocked at the brazenness of her call and I was angry.

Later that afternoon, I went into the water department to pay my bill and set the woman who had made the call strait. I told her that I am not a bad person due to an accounting error. Further more, I asked her if she treated everyone who had issues with their bills in this manner. I reminded her that we are in the grips of a very serious recession and that a little compassion for people’s struggles might be in order. The woman did not seem to even register what I had said, and her rude service continued through out my business there. As a bill payer/ customer, you do have rights and you should be heard.

I was utterly shocked by her rudeness. There was absolutely no call for it. My husband was appalled at the treatment I had received as well. He jokingly said, that I should tell them that I was going to dig a well, and that they could keep their city wanter. This was a tricky situation, where I as the customer was not heard. Because it is a city service, I just have to deal with her behavior. I told my husband that the whole situation reminds me of a Simpsons episode where, Homer insults the local garbage men and does not have pick up service for months, causing his rubbish to pile up in his yard.

While I was clearly in the wrong for my accounting error, I still deserver to be treated with dignity and respect.

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