A Distorted Generation
Welcome back!
Teens today grew up with luxuary as something common. Money was handed over at a moments notice. Designer clothes weren’t a big deal, nor were expensive cars that were given as gifts. Today’s American teenager is one of the most spoiled populations on history.
In recent years, wealth that was handed to American teenagers at an alarming rate. Often these luxuaries such as designer handbag, electronics and cars were given to teens without strings attached. They did not have any responsibilities, while their parents paid all of their bills.
They days of dropping a couple hundred dollars at the mall once a week are over. Many parents have dug themselves into a financial whole from which they’ll never recover. The money is not the real tragedy, what is the real tragedy is an entire segment of a generation has been distroyed. These teens were raised with unrealistic views on how the world actually works. Many are now only Bering their first views of reality as credit charges are being denied and their cars are being sold to help pay an enormous mortage.
While I would love to blame these kids for their misfortune, I have to ask myself who is really to blame? This mess falls squarely on the shoulders of parents who distroyed their children to use them as a show piece for their mock wealth.
I realize that not all teenagers have been raised in this manner, but there is a large majority who have and who strive to be like their wealthy peers. In coddling teenagers with such wealth, will they be able to function in our new “back to basics” trend in society?
How About a Little Kindness?
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.
Inexpensive Spring Break Fun
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!
Brunch on a Budget
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
I am not a Degenerate!
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.
Top 10 Ways to Redecorate A Room Spending Next to Nothing
During this economic crisis many are learning that their home really is their castle. People are spending more time at home due to the economic issues. People are once again returning to those dining rooms and living rooms that were neglected by eating out and going out for entertainment.
Spending more time at home, sometimes gives people the “itch” to redecorate. Well, in these difficult times, it is not feasible to go on a spending spree to redo a room in your house. However, there are ways to spruce up a room and still spend very little. If you must buy items to redo your room, try the thrift store, garage sales and Ikea. So without further ado, here are my top ten ways for redoing a room on a tight budget:
A Can of Paint
This is my favorite way to redo a room. I love changing the color in a room. When you paint a room it becomes your special space. It’s like leaving a mark saying that you were here. Paint does not have to be expensive. I usually look in the returns section of the paint store. You can get really nice colors at a fraction of what you would normally pay. The best thing about paint is, if you don’t like it, paint it another color!
A New Rug
Carpeting a whole room is really pricey. If you have horribly stained carpet and you cannot afford to replace it, try buying an area rug. Area rugs do not have to be pricey. Most retailers like Target and Walmart sell them. You do not need an area rug that costs thousands of dollars. You can also check on line for a rug as well. I would also suggest your local thrift store. In many cases the cost of the rug and a shampoo is cheaper than buying one new. Believe it or not, an area rug can change the whole feel of a room.
Re-arrange Your Furniture
I know this sounds silly, but it can totally change your room. I constantly try this trick. It drives my husband crazy, but it allows me to show off the room and furniture in different ways. I can breath some life into an old boring room. Just be careful when moving furniture around to not hurt yourself. Also, if you have wood floors make sure not to drag furniture, as to not scratch the floor.
Switch Out Art Work
This is a great trick to give an old piece a new life. If you are redoing your room and there is a print that is hanging in another room, try hanging it in your new room. You can bring in new colors and patterns through artwork. If you don’t have any artwork, try and create something yourself. I know this might intimidate some, but give it a try, you might surprise yourself. If you are not artistically inclined, but you have children, try hanging some of their artwork.
Accessories
This is the easiest part of changing a room. Again, take things from other parts of the house. Picture frames are usually interchangeable. Use a large bowl as a centerpiece on your coffee table, or a breakfast tray. Glass items such as a vase can also bring new color into a room. The thrift store is a great place to shop for accessories. I never buy them new at any stores, they’re too expensive. I would also suggest garage sales.
Change Photos in Picture Frames
I always try to rotate pictures in the photo frames that I have. This is great way to update the look of your room. Wedding pictures, family photos or pictures of friends are great to swap out. Choose different pictures of loved ones and events to showcase.
The Infamous Couch Cover
I am the victim of dated furniture. My husband and I have handed down furniture. It is not the prettiest but, it is comfortable and clean. However, neither of my couches match. A quick way to fix ugly, dated, and dirty furniture is a couch cover. These can be pricey so look for a deal. You can also have your furniture re-fabriced. As always, when it comes to doing these things, they can be pricey, so shop for a deal. Keep in mind it should be much cheaper than replacing the furniture you have.
Throw Pillows
Throw Pillows are a wonderful to update a room. They can be easy to sew if you do not want to buy them. I do not own a sewing machine and am inept at sewing but, I managed to sew some very nice pillows that lasted forever. If the whole sewing thing is not for you, they can be purchased very cheaply. I would recommend Walmart or Ikea. I recently bout 4 pillows at Ikea for under $10. They’re soft and comfortable.
A New Bedspread
This is the best way to redo a bedroom for little or no money. If you have a reversible bedspread, you can switch sides for a while. If you have a duvet, try switching out duvet covers, which is usually inexpensive. Ikea has wonderful duvet sets which usually include the duvet and pillow shams. The thrift store is another wonderful place to buy new bedding. Just make sure to wash it well before using.
Change the Lighting
Properly lighting a room is very important. Lighting of a room either showcase a room or hides it in darkness. Try to move your lamps and lights around to evenly light your room. Try to avoid dark corners. You will be amazed what a difference an extra lamp can make to the appearance of a room. You can purchase lamps inexpensively. If you do choose to buy a lamp second-hand, be careful with the electrical components, the unit may not be up to code.
These few tip can totally change the look of a room. As always, try to make do with what you have. Walk around your house and take stock of what you have, this will help you re-arrange things in your home and give your treasures a new life. Have fun!
Dumpster Diving Is Back
As a child I grew up in a home where we just managed to get by financially. Once a week my mom would pile us kids into the car to go “dumpster diving” in the wealthier neighborhoods in our area. I know this idea sounds repulsive to some, but it really isn’t. We would not go through the garbage bags, but instead keep an eye out for things set next to the rummage bin.
My sister and I used to love “dumpster diving night.” Believe it or not, we actually found some pretty cools stuff over the years, things that were in perfect condition. As I got older, we didn’t do dumpster dive nights anymore. However, I still do keep my eye out when I am driving. Once, I found a perfectly good Radio Flyer wagon in someone’s trash. It was old and a little rusty, but it worked just fine. I use it as a garden cart for when I am out working in my yard.
Recently I have been reading articles that say dumpster diving is back in a big way. This made me chuckle until the other night when I actually saw a guy doing it! I personally don’t care if someone wants to rummage through my trash, believe me all they’d find is coffee grounds and cat food tins. I am not condemning the man that I saw. Way to go for him, now that’s being resourceful.
However, like most things, dumpster diving has become more technologically advanced. Craig’s List has a free category on their website, the new modern dumpster dive. I have been amazed at the things people give away. I have seen beautiful furniture, appliances some working, and some for scrap, clothing. You name it, you’ll find it.
There are a few tricks to this modern dumpster dive. First, you must check often, especially on the weekends. Second, if you see something you want, contact the giver right away. Things can go very quickly on Craig’s List. It is okay to ask the giver a few questions about the item before you commit to taking it. This can be a great way to get what you need for free.
While Craig’s List is free, a word of caution, this type of dumpster dive can be dangerous. Most times when someone lists an item, they usually have you pick it up at their home. Please be cautious, take someone with you when you go. We have had two robberies in the area that lured people by using the free category on Craig’s List. The people showed up to pick up the items and instead, they were robbed and assaulted. So, please be careful when using Craig’s List. However, in giving this warning, I must say, I have used Craig’s List many times and I have never had any problems.
A Guide For the Newly Uninsured
As the economy continues to struggle the cost of living is rising for Americans. Many Americans are so strapped for cash that they are having to pick and choose which bills to pay. Lots of Americans do have health insurance through work and some purchase health insurance on their own as well. If you are one of the many Americans who is losing or has lost their health insurance recently, don’t panic. Welcome to the club!
Not having health insurance is not the end of the world if you are healthy. The first thing to do is not to panic. Millions of Americans go without health insurance every year. To survive without it is possible. here are a few tips that I as an uninsured individual live by.
Assess when you really NEED to see a doctor
If you have a cold or the flu there really isn’t a need to see a doctor. A doctor should not prescribe any antibiotics for these issues. Let the body naturally fight it off. Over the counter fever reducer and cold medication should do the trick. To keep from spreading illnesses like these, try to stay contained to one bedroom if possible. Make sure to not let others handle used tissues. Also keep some bleach wipes near the toilet, so that you can wipe the handle when you are done, do the same with door knobs and phones.
The Drug Store and the Pharmacist
For example if you have a stomach ache, try Pepto or Amoduim. These work wonders and cost only a fraction of what the trip to the doctors would. Also if you are going to a store that has a pharmacy, do not be afraid to ask the pharmacist medical questions. They can usually offer sound medical advice. They can usually help you choose the right drug to help you as well. They can also inform you of what illnesses are going around, and tell you the best way to treat it.
When it is Time to See the Doctor
Sometimes, you must go to the doctor. I usually throw in the towel when I have a cold or flu that won’t go away. Another red flag that it’s doctor time, is when someone has a really high fever that will not go away. A high fever is usually a warning sign of infection. Usually when symptoms get worse or do not fade, it is time to see the doctor.
If you do not have a regular doctor, I recommend going to an immediate care center. These facilities have a doctor on staff, and the bill is much more manageable than the emergency room. If you do have a regular doctor, when you are scheduling an appointment let the receptionist know that you do not have insurance. Usually when you let your doctor know ahead of time, they can work out a payment plan. They also can try to keep unnecessary procedures and tests to a minimum.
I am not a medical professional so please use common sense when taking my advice. Please do not sue me if you arm falls off cause you did not go to the doctor. The best thing you can keep yourself healthy. Exercise, eat right and get plenty of sleep. Try to keep unhealthy habits to a minimum. Best of luck to you all!
Resources for Recent Layoffs
540,000 jobs were cut last month, and this month is looking to be worse. It is a scary time to be employed and unemployed right now. Strong stable companies are shedding jobs in an effort to help their bottom line. However, where does that leave the receiver of a pink slip?
Well, if you have recently received a pink slip you are not alone. I came across a statistic the other day that said 70% of Americans know someone who has been effected by the economic downturn or laid off. In looking at that stat, it is amazing to me to see how rampant this really is.
As I was searching the net for information to aid those who have been recently laid off, I came across this article on Mashable.com. They have an article that lists the best 30 websites for those who are jobless right now.
This database of websites is wonderful! It is very rare in the vast universe that is the internet, to find such a detailed and concise list. The database, has sites not only how to find a new job, but how to manage your money until you do.
Ben Parr, the author says,
“But the worst time to panic is when you are laid off and lose your main source of income. We live in a new and powerful era of communication, one where we can find support, gather news, and network without ever leaving our computers.”
I would encourage all to take a quick glance at his database. This is a wonderful resource. I hope that this helps to those of you who have recently recieved that dreaded pink slip
When You Must Look Your Best
The job market is rough right now. Wither you have a job or are looking for a job, now is the time to dress the part. It is commonly known that you should always dress above the current position that you have. These tips will help with the interview wardrobe as well. Employers look for people that are qualified and look the part.
Here are my top five tips for dressing for an office, without breaking the bank:
Know What You Need to Buy:
Take a look in your closet and see what you already own. When you are considering clothing for work purposes, make sure that it fits correctly. Do not wear clothing that is too tight or baggy. All work clothing must clean and ironed when worn. Never wear clothing that is dirty or stained.
Now that you have established what you do or do not have in your current wardrobe, you will know what you need to shop for. Everyone needs a good business suit. I would also suggest a well fitted button down shirt or two. Don’t forget that dressing the part does include shoes too. Make sure they are appropriate and are dress shoes.
The Thrift Store
When I got my first corporate job, my wardrobe did not fit the part. However, I did not want to go out and spend a ton of money on clothing right away. I did not want to spend my whole paycheck on clothing. Also keep in mind, this might not be the best place to by dress shoes.
There are lots of options at thrift stores and consignment shops. The most important things to keep in mind when you shop at these places, is to make sure that the articles of clothing fit you well and are clean. I was able to purchase quite a few button down shirts at the thrift store. It is fun to get carried away in the thrift shop with so many possibilities, but keep your choices conservative. Stay away from loud colors and patterns at first.
Kohl’s
I have been told that Kohl’s has a wonderful business casual department. I have never looked there myself but, I have heard this tip many times. Kohl’s is great because they have really good sales on occasion. Plus, you can try on the clothing before you buy it, which you sometimes can’t when in a resale shop.
The nice thing about shopping at a store like Kohl’s is that you can by lots of clothing that coordinates with each other. You can also buy shoes there too, and dress socks and stockings for the ladies. You can also enlist the help of staff, that have helped many dress for work. The beauty of a place like Kohl’s, is it can be a one stop shop. I have also been told that the clothing and shoes are very reasonably priced.
Outlet Malls:
This can be a wonderful trick. After being hired at my first corporate job, I was at a lose of where to buy a good suit. I could buy separates that the thrift store, but I was not able to find a good suit. Hence the trip to the outlet mall. I am lucky to have two within driving distance. Both malls have lots of stores which cater to to corporate client.
I found a United Colors of Benton outlet nearby. This store was perfect for me. They specialized in women’s suiting. I like this store because not only were the prices reasonable, but the suiting fashions were perfect for a range of ages. For the first time, I found a suit that was not matronly and fit me well. The staff was wonderful and friendly. I bought two suits on my first trip for under $300.
The following Monday when I wore one of my new suits to the office, I was flooded with complements. Furthermore, I mixed and matched the pieces of the suits with other things in wardrobe. I soon noticed what a big difference these two suits had made. Now it may be my imagination but, I felt more respected and taken more seriously on the days that I wore one of these suits. I would consider the investment of a good suit as a necessity.
Be the Whole Package
Now that you have the perfect wardrobe, make sure the rest of you looks nice too. Make sure that you hair is combed and styled in a conservative manner. While your mohawk maybe super cool with your friends, it will not as well received with potential employers. I would also suggest taking out piercing other than the ear piercing.
As for jewelry make sure it is appropriate. Keep you jewelry simple. Make sure that it accents your ensemble, not distracts from it. A strand of simple pearls always works well for women. For men I would suggest a nice pair of cufflinks or a simple tie clip.
As for make up for the ladies, make sure it is simple and tasteful. I would stay away from bright colors. Go for a natural look.
Believe it or not, your nails matter for both sexes. For men make sure your nails are well groomed, don’t bite them and make sure they are clean underneath. For ladies, make sure your nails do not have chipped nail polish. If you do want to have manicured nails, make sure that you choose a conservative style. It is guaranteed that you will shake someone’s hand during the interview process, or on a daily basis while working in an office, so make sure that you nails look professional.
Good luck to all of you out there in the job market who are looking to either move up the corporate latter or take the first step onto it. A solid resume will get you in the door, but remember you are an entire package. Employers will hire people who are not only qualified, but look the part as well. Good Luck to you all!
