The Monetary Worth of My Work

Yesterday I spent time scouring the CVS weekly sales ad, my collection of coupons, the digital coupons clipped to my CVS card, and various apps, such as Ibotta and creating a shopping strategy that would get the family some items that are needed (or will be needed in the future) at rock bottom prices.  While I was strategizing I had videos playing on Swagbucks earning me some points.  Also while strategizing, I munched on some free food at my corner bakery.  It was a pleasant enough way to begin a day and when all was said and done I saved the family at least $40 and earned $1.  (Just a note:  when I say that I saved money I am referring to the top dollar that I would have spent on those items, not the amount that the store said I saved which would have been significantly higher.  For instance, I got my toothpaste for free.  CVS originally had this toothpaste marked at nearly $5.  I never would have paid that.  It was on sale for $3.  I rarely would pay that.  For the size of tube that I purchased I would have a target price of $2 or less.  By getting it free I saved $2).  The strategizing and shopping took less than three hours.  If I calculate my hourly "wage" using three hours than I was "earned" $13.67 per hour.  If I calculate it based on a full work days hours than I "earned" $5 per hour which doesn't sound quite as good and it is obvious that the $13.67 "wage" is not sustainable and consistent when trying to convert what I do into a "wage".
Why am I even doing this?
It is easy to undervalue all the efforts of the household manager.
It is easy to undervalue all of the efforts made by those attempting to make frugal choices.
Money saved, however, is akin to money earned and it is good to keep this in mind and to know that the choices that are made and the effort that is put forth has value, true tangible value.
Yesterday my efforts netted $41 for my family.  If I were to do that everyday than I would have "made" $1200 for my family by the end of the month.
Some days, however, I will not hit that mark but other days I will far exceed that.
Here are some examples of what I have done to "earn" money for my family recently.

-Friday I was reviewing our bank records and found that there was an error that impacted both of my bank accounts.  I went by the local bank on Friday and addressed the issue.  They have reimbursed my account $40.  Today I will call the other bank and, hopefully, will get them to reimburse $63.

-We were going to lose some of our income as our youngest child was turning 18 unless he was still in high school, which he is.  However, because he is homeschooled it was required that I produce a transcript, course descriptions and curriculum lists.  It took me two days to organize this information in a way communicated efficiently what they needed.  These efforts paid off.  This income will continue until the end of May.  Two days of intense effort will net $4500.

-Prior to leaving on our trip to New Mexico for a funeral I made quick bread, boiled eggs, mini quiches and I purchased bread, bologna, and fruit.  By buying about $7 worth of food and preparing what I had at home I insured that we wouldn't eat on the road and that we wouldn't feel the need to swing by fast food on the day of the funeral between the service and the cemetery but before the family dinner.  We would have spent at least $50 if I hadn't done this.  I saved us, and, thus, earned, $43.

-Prior to the trip I was fortunate to have a friend who was willing to change my oil for me.  This cost me $45 and I typically spend $125 to get my oil changed.  I also researched how to change my windshield wipers on my own and how to replace my headlight on my own.  I spent $100 on the necessary supplies.  The guys at the auto store ended up putting on my wipers for me at no charge and after failing at putting the headlight in on my own (a stubborn screw stood between me and success, ugh) that friend rescued me and changed it for me.  I don't know how much, exactly, was saved by not going to the dealer to have these things done, I can only guess based on what other people have told me that they have paid.  I would say that I had $250 worth of work done for $145.  That would mean that my efforts and determination to insource "earned" me $105.

Over the last three weeks my efforts have "earned" $4,792 (assuming I am successful with the bank today).  And, of course, this isn't even all of my efforts.  It doesn't include the impact that the plastic I have put over the windows, turning off lights behind everyone, and being the one who makes sure the thermostat is turned down at night will have on our utility bill.  It doesn't include my efforts to pack Bishop's lunch that he eats during history class when I used to swing by a drive-thru on the way to class.  It doesn't include the $60 I have earned in the last three weeks on survey sites and Ibotta and such.  And the list goes on and on.

The efforts to make wise frugal choices truly does pay off!

Last Weeks Frugal Accomplishments - Using What I Have

February 11 - 17

What has happened this week?
I have been busy using what I have!

I did a LOT of scrapbooking.  I have made a lot of progress on Maceo's senior scrapbook without spending a penny.  I will soon be in need of glue sticks but I have still have plenty of paper and such.  There will be a lot more pages next week.  Awesome.

The boys and I went to the museum to scope out some cool exhibits and it was FREE!

I went by Walmart for a gallon of milk and I came out with quite a bit more.  Typically that would be a bad thing but not this time.  This time I scored - I spent $55 and I got 30 3/4 lb. meat which means I got the meat for what would be $1.78 lb. ; however, it is not all I bought for that $55.  I also got a large jar of spaghetti sauce, tomato juice, hoagie rolls, a gallon of milk, two gallons of water, four toothbrushes and four bottles of fingernail polish.  Big SCORE!!!

I kept it simple for Valentine's Day.  I did buy the requisite heart shaped donuts and pizzas.  I also bought one bag of Valentine's themed hershey's kisses.  Otherwise, I used what I have to present it in a special way.  I plated the donuts on cake plates.  I refreshed the hot chocolate bar putting everything in pretty little glass dishes.  I pulled out the white with red trim diner plates and the red cloth napkins.  Then I placed vintage valentines around the set up.  It was cute, simple, festive.

The fingernail polish was such a great deal that I went back to get a couple of bottles for my grand niece who celebrated her 6th birthday this week.  She loves to paint her nails.  So I made her very happy for only $3.  It was top line nail polish for $1 each.  I wrapped them in a small red bag with a flocked heart on it.  This bag was purchased about a decade ago (while I was living in Utah) at a post-Valentine's sale.  I tell you, I can work gift wrapping!

I have been doing some deep cleaning and found bags of sample sized products.  I am beginning to work my way through them yet am leaving some for all the trips I will be taking next month.


52-Week Challenge:  I didn't deposit anything new into this account so the balance remains $55.

Learning Jar O' Change:  The previous balance was $79.93.  To that I add $3.04 for a new balance of  $82.97.

Last Weeks Frugal Accomplishments and a Step Toward Financial Fitness (aka a credit card was paid off)

February 4 - 10

Sunday:
Most us stayed close to home for Super Bowl festivities.  Our family teams weren't represented in the Super Bowl so the party was more simple than it would be otherwise.  However, football food has to be prepared for this football-loving family.  I scored a great deal on brats so that became imperative to serve.  Then we made three different types of dips.  For a little something sweet I made football shaped chocolate sugar cookies.  This dough was found in the freezer clean out and made for a perfect Super Bowl sweet treat.  I also have a supply of football themed serving dishes and such so I pulled them out for an instant party.  Go Eagles!
Yay Eagles!

Monday:
We ate leftovers today.  There were even extra brats.  The boys were happy!
For a sweet treat today, however, I heated up the homemade chocolate sauce that I made the other day.  I used it on the last of the ice cream.  The boys used it as fondue with some marshmallows we had on hand.  Yum!
I bought a couple of new clothing items to freshen up my wardrobe.  They were deeply discounted.  I hope they are all that they appear to be.
I have a pair of black patent doc martens that I bought a couple of years back.  I needed them to finish an ensemble for an event I was going to.  Well, I really wanted the regular finish but the store didn't have them and I needed a pair so I bought the patent pair.  I have found, however, that I don't like the shininess of them so I haven't worn them in over a year.  This evening I researched ways to paint those boots.  I am optimistic that I can create something that I will enjoy wearing.  I will keep you updated.

Tuesday:
I had to go to the store for some milk and roses (for a gift and the smile on the recipients face was totally worth the cashola spent!).  While there I picked up some chicken at eighty-nine cents per pound, two packages of brats at $1.99 each, and ground beef that was discounted by $2.
Maceo's first college audition has been scheduled.  He is applying to schools in the UK so a trip is in our near future.  I began planning the trip and am trying to be responsible, trying to make good choices.  I am getting in the right mindset.

Wednesday:
Although last weeks emphasis was on communication and some progress seemed to have been made, the struggle continues.  Today I noted that I struggle with differences in the way that my husband and I view our food resources.  He researched a marinara sauce that involves using ribs and chicken to add flavor to the sauce, not substance just flavor.  Although I had no doubt that this would be yummy and, of course, I let him cook as it is his hobby, I struggled with the notion that these were all going to be rolled into one dish instead of three separate dishes.  We did find a bit of a compromise.  All the meat was pulled out of the sauce and will be used.
This evening I used the chicken and sauce to make chicken cacciatore.  I served it with rice and kale chips.  Yum.
A bit of a fail (but only a bit because the company was stellar) I did spend money eating out for lunch.
I made an effort to try to organize my clothes a bit so as to be more resourceful with outfits.

Thursday:
We used the sauce that Herb made yesterday to have spaghetti for lunch.  I topped mine with leftover kale chips and it was absolutely wonderful!
Dinner was simple with hot dogs and Super Bowl leftovers - queso, cheesesteak dip, and veggies.
A relatively large check of back pay came in today.  We deposited using the banks mobile app then used it to pay off a credit card.  Outstanding debt is now the house, one vehicle and a student loan.  We are making progress!
On the "not intentionally frugal but turned out ok" front:  Maceo and I went to Kohl's to by him a tie to match the dress that is girlfriend will be wearing to a dance they will be going to together.  I thought I had a 20% off coupon but it wasn't effective yet.  Shrug, we went ahead and picked out a tie, went to the register and learned that these ties were buy one get one half off.  The lady at the register was so helpful and generous.  We were already at the the checkout and were hesitant to grab another tie because he didn't really need another one so she offered to mark this tie down by 25% which is what it would have cost individually if we had done the deal.  Isn't that sweet?

Friday:
Herb made some great taco meat.  We actually had tacos for both lunch and dinner.
We received a check, a back payment, that allowed me to pay off our last credit card.  That's awesome.
A little less awesome is the difficulty that the hubby and had today conversing about finances.  On the surface it seemed to go well but things happened that confirmed that there is a disconnect.  So frustrating.  This transition is difficult.

Saturday:
I spent money today.
I had a LOT of photos developed.  I realized that I had to get moving on Maceo's Senior year scrapbook and Bishop's scouting scrapbooks.  Maceo graduates in June and Bishop, if he is going to rank up to Eagle, has to Eagle before January 5, 2019.  So, I decided that I needed to get focused.  As I said, I printed a LOT of photos.  Walgreens had a discount code that I used getting each photo printed at 10 cents instead of 29.  Then I spent the evening organizing Maceo's senior year photos and ephemera and got a little scrapbooked.  It will be slow going at first as it has been a long time since I have scrapbooked but it will pick up I am certain.  I did have to buy glue sticks, otherwise I am using what I have on hand.  I have plenty on hand.

52-Week Challenge:  The previous balance was $50.  To that I add $5 for a new total of $55.  (I have now done the 3, 4, 5, 6, 12 and 25).

Learning Jar O' Change:  Bishop donated $10.47 to the learning jar.  That donation is added to the previous total of $69.46 for a new total of $79.93.

Last Weeks Frugal Accomplishments - Gaining Traction by Getting on the Same Page (or at least trying to)

January 28 - February 3

Sunday:

The most fun frugal thing of the day would be going to see Maceo perform Titus Andronicus for free.  When I arrived I was pleased to see several friends there.  So, in addition to seeing a great performance I got to have some great conversation and connect socially.  Yay me!!!

Although the performance was free I did choose to donate some money to the theatre group as I believe that what they contribute to our community is of great value!

The most important accomplishment of the day that contributes to financial fitness was having a very good conversation about finances, priorities and the vision that we each have for our lives.  He has lived alone for some quite some time and I have lived with the kiddos and we have each developed different approaches to grocery shopping and such.  I buy groceries once every two weeks, he buys groceries nearly every day.  This difference makes it very difficult to budget effectively.  When he first came home I would go do the big grocery shopping then I would note that he would go to the store almost every morning to pick up other items and our budget would be big time blown.  I have since reduced my big shopping as a way to accommodate his preference.  I am still not absolutely satisfied but the talk today might help get us on the same page.  We also talked about more than just groceries, such as the need to have money for Maceo's college applications.  He knew we were getting ready to submit the applications but hadn't thought about the application fees.  We have to work hard to have a common understanding of our financial situation.

Another frugal accomplishment would be my solution for dinner.  Herb had plans to make dinner and I assumed it would be done when Maceo and I returned from his show; however, we returned and there was no dinner as Herb was not feeling well and had slept the entire time.  I decided that I would make a lasagna with the meat sauce that I had in the freezer and some oven ready noodles that I had in the pantry.  I had just begun assembling it when Herb awoke and wanted to go to the deli to buy some fried chicken.  After he saw that I had already started dinner he opted not to go to the deli and I was pleased that that money stayed in our account and we used resources that we had on hand.

Monday:
I think conversation will be the theme of the week.  I had another good conversation with the husband about our grocery budget.  We haven't fully developed a plan but at least some things have been shared and illuminated.
After an evening of scouts and theatre and such the boys were hungry.  I thought that the hubby was making dinner while we were gone but that didn't quite happen so I had to come up with something quickly.  I found leftover taco meat in the fridge, fried up some taco shells, prepared some other fixings and the boys were content with this late dinner.
As my husband has finally come home from the army and we have tried to transition I have found meals (and our grocery budget) interesting (read: difficult) to plan.  The hubby loves to cook so he wanted to be the primary meal preparer when he returned home.  He is, however, accustomed to certain meals, has his own rhythm and physical limitations (and his own way of shopping).  Sometimes there are meals when anticipated and sometimes there aren't, sometimes the meals work for the kiddos and sometimes they miss the mark.  I have found that it is helpful to have some sort of real quick meal in mind, something that can be thrown together very quickly that will satisfy the boys.  First, I had lasagna in mind because I had meat sauce in the freezer.  I made that on Sunday.  Then I had tacos in mind.  I made that tonight.  So, what next?  I think breakfast burritos.

Tuesday:
I made banana bread for breakfast or lunch or a snack or whatever.  The boys made omelettes to go with it.  Herb made chicken croquette mix for lunch.  Those of us who wanted it for lunch fried up what we wanted.  We dredged the croquettes in crushed pretzels using the last of the pretzels and all the crumbs in the bottom of the bag.  I ate mine with the last of the tzatzki sauce that was leftover from the slouvaki that we had a bit ago.  When I did the grocery shopping last I scored a really large pork shoulder roast.  Herb cut it into fourths, froze some of it and roasted some of it today.  He didn't know what to serve with it and he was fatigued so I removed the roasted pork from the pan and put potatoes, carrots and apples in the drippings to roast them.  Also, I got the chorizo out of the freezer.  After it is thawed I will fry it up and have it ready for breakfast burritos.
Bishop managed to score a little job at the pottery studio as a teaching assistant and earned a bit of cash.  SCORE!
Maceo's performance troupe had a show this evening.  He was given one comp ticket.  I used that ticket to watch a really fantastic show for free.

Wednesday:
I spent the morning paying the bills.  I am still trying to work out a system that works well for both Herb and I.  I guess we'll see if I managed it this month!
When I cleaned the freezer I put the inventory on a chalkboard in the kitchen.  I usually do it on a piece of paper that I post on the freezer but I got to thinking that the chalkboard was larger and in the line of vision so it might work better for Herb.  He noticed and liked it.  Hopefully it will help him keep abreast of the resources that we have on hand and will reduce the amount that he goes to the grocery store.  That's he said as well so that is very encouraging to me.
I ordered some boneless, skinless chicken breasts from Zaycon after my niece recommended it and gave me a coupon code.  I ordered 40 lbs. of breasts and paid $39.  I will pick these up next month.  SCORE!
I was craving something sweet, knew there was a bit of ice cream in the freezer but wanted some chocolate syrup to top it off.  I made some syrup using cocoa powder that was super yummy.  I combined 1 1/2 c. sugar, 1 c. cocoa powder, and 1 c. cream and brought it to a boil.  I then added 1/2 c. butter and let it to continue to boil until it thickened.  Then I removed if from heat and stirred in 2 tsp. vanilla and 1/4 tsp. salt.  It was so yummy.  It reminded me of the chocolate sauce my Granny used to make.


Thursday:
I did the grocery shopping today.  I went to Aldi and, for the most part, stuck to the list.  I added a few extras like pork ribs at $1.99/lb.  I also went by Walmart to pick up some items that I couldn't find at Aldi.  I needed a smidge of steak to make a cheesesteak dip for the Superbowl.  I found some sirloins on manager special; two big nice sirloins.  I bought both of them.  Even on manager special it was more than the $2/lb. that I shoot for when purchasing meat but I needed some for the dip and thought the extra would make a nice treat of a meal.  While at Aldi I picked up a take and bake baguette to serve alongside the cheesesteak dip.  When I got to the check out counter I found that the package was torn so, of course, I didn't purchase it.  Which turned out to be a good thing as I found a baguette at Walmart for fifty-five cents.  I also found sliced deli corned beef on manager special.  It did fit my specifications so I bought some and tucked it into the freezer.  I think corned beef sandwiches will be one of those quick dinners that I have on hand when I suddenly become responsible for putting together a meal.  I also picked up some Walmart pizzas to serve for lunch when I got home.  That has been something I have done for years.  It simplified life for me as a geographically single parent.  I didn't know if it would be needed, I didn't know if Herb had made anything but I went ahead and got it figuring it would be eaten at some point if not right away.  I got home and found that it was, in fact, needed.  I was grateful to have it.
When I got home I put those pizzas in the oven and got to unloading groceries, organizing the food stuffs and getting it put away properly, which now includes updating the chalkboard if something goes into the freezer.  This system might just work.
Herb and I reviewed the system and he noted that it looked as though the freezer was quite well stocked.  While doing that I went out on a limb (at least it felt that way) and suggested trying to cook with what was in the house, only going to the store for perishables.  Surprisingly, he liked the idea and accepted the challenge.
Herb used some of that pork roast to make a really fantastic carne adovada.  Everyone loved it and it utilized some of our massive stock of corn tortillas.  Win.
I put together a gift for a friend that lost every material possession, excluding the clothes on their backs and their cars, in a house fire.  I utilized some items that I had on hand and combined it with meaningful things that I purchased.  I collected from around the house theatre memorabilia that would be relevant to her and her son (thank goodness I always pick up extras), a mouse pad that has family art printed on it (a mouse pad is something she requested), a pottery vase that Bishop made and tucked them in an extra basket that I had on hand.  I also printed some photos off of her Facebook, framed them in frames that I purchased at Hobby Lobby and also included a calendar and planner that I purchased at deep discount at Hobby Lobby (again, items that she requested).  I think she will find it all meaningful and I didn't break the bank.
Oh yes, I almost forgot... another great find at Walmart was three different makeup products for $3 each.  I got powder, mascara and brow mascara, all Revlon.  I am actually not brand loyal nor am I loyal to specific products so I look for things on sale.  My all-time favorite pressed powder, which made me look as if I had been airbrushed, only cost me $1.

Friday:
I have a full evening tonight and a full day tomorrow so I felt that I really needed to focus on being organized.  I made pumpkin bread.  I loaf served as a snack for today and the other was saved for a quick breakfast tomorrow morning.
I put baked potatoes in the oven alongside the pumpkin bread to serve alongside the steaks that Bishop made for lunch.
Bishop was having a friend spend the night and I would be having to get out the door so I purchased some pizzas from Papa Murphy's for them to prepare when they were ready for dinner.
I ushered at our community theatre so I was able to see a production of West Side Story at no cost to me.  Afterwards, my sister, who ushered with me, and I went to the improv theatre to watch Maceo perform.  We paid $5 for admission but that is pretty cheap for some quality entertainment.

Saturday:
Bishop, his friend and I got up early to head to a neighboring town for a cool opportunity.  We began our day with the pumpkin bread.  Herb, who gets up much earlier than the rest of us, also made us bacon and scrambled eggs.  It was perfect.
The boys and I took a field trip to watch a high school debate.  It was sooo cool and has contributed much to our conversations.  This experience cost us a little bit in the form of gas but was otherwise free.  Afterwards, we hooked up with some friends who live in the area and had lunch together.  Bishop and I did splurge, we had dessert and everything, so not the most frugal but it did make for a nice afternoon.
Later that evening, Bishop made some dinner after thawing some ground beef.  Herb had leftovers all day long.

52-Week Challenge:  The previous balance was $47 and to that I added $3 for a new balance of $50.  (I have now done 25, 12, 6, 4 and 3).

Learning Jar O' Change:  The previous balance was $67.91.  After adding $1.55 the new balance is $69.46.

Last Weeks Frugal Accomplishments - Focusing on Organization

January 21 - 27

Sunday:
Yesterday Herb made chopped up some chicken and added chopped vegetables.  He used it to fry up some chicken patties yesterday.  Today he used half of it for a stir-fry and I used the other half to make chicken and potato hand pies.  I typically make these with puff pastry.  Unfortunately, the package of puff pastry that I had in the fridge had gone moldy.  (Shucks, I hate wasting food, especially puff pastry, ugh!).  Fortunately, I had some crescent rolls in the fridge.  Three packages of crescent rolls had rolled to the back of the fridge during the holidays and I just happened to find them earlier today so I put them to good use making those hand pies.  I served those with the last of the frozen broccoli.
Maceo finished up opening weekend of the performance of Titus Andronicus and Herb got a bit of free entertainment watching the performance.  We all accessed some free entertainment by streaming the AFC and NFC championship games.
Being organized, knowing what you have and where to find it when you need it, is key to saving money.  Using your resources wisely is key to financial fitness.  With that thought in mind I am striving to get the house more organized this week, beginning with organizing the food.  Today I cleaned and organized my food storage pantry and the carb drawer (bread, tortillas and crackers all get stashed here).  I made a list of items that will need to be added to the pantry in February and made note of items that I have a lot of (oh my word, I have soooo many crackers of all types and, fortunately, plenty of flour and sugar and other baking supplies) that should be used in February's menus.  I have lots of corn flakes and peanut butter that were gifted to me by a friend and I want to make something like these cookies or these ones with the chocolate because I have plenty of chocolate as well (which makes me very happy).  I also have a lot of white chocolate chips so I want to make these cookies.  I also have stuff to make rice krispie treats.  Maybe I will make these in heart shapes for Valentine's Day.  So, I guess we're good on desserts!

Monday:
I worked an hour and a half for the theatre while Maceo had his acting class, a bit of a reciprocal relationship.
Most of my day was spent cleaning out the fridge and inventorying it while, simultaneously, preparing for our trip to the VA hospital tomorrow.  I found two cans of biscuits pushed toward the back of the fridge.  I used those to make biscuits and gravy and sausage for breakfast.  Additionally, I made deviled eggs and pasta salad for the trip tomorrow.  I had a bit of tri-color rotini in the pantry that I cooked up.  To that I added little odds and ends from the fridge - the remainder of a jar of artichoke hearts, last little bits of salami and pepperoni and specialty cheeses from the holidays.  I finished it off with some dressing.  I also baked up the last of the frozen bread dough making two loaves of bread, one for Herb and I and the other for the boys.  Additionally, I found two little bits of cookie dough, snickerdoodles and sugar cookies, and baked them up.  I packed up some sugar cookies and a bit of leftover frosting for Herb and I.  I left the remainder of the cookies for the boys.  I also put some butter, honey, and peanut butter in the picnic hamper alongside the homemade bread.  I think I have put together a feast for Herb and I to eat tomorrow using just what we had on hand.  Here is the menu:  pasta salad, deviled eggs, homemade bread that can be made into a sandwich if desired (peanut butter, honey and jam) or eaten buttered, bread and butter pickles, a grapefruit and almonds, and sugar cookies.  A feast, I tell you!

Tuesday:
Herb and I made our trip to the VA hospital.  We spent money on fuel and two treats (gum for him, sour straws for me).  We took our lunch and drinks and that worked very well.  Herb concurred - I packed a feast!  Bishop spent his money on cheapo pizza for him and his brothers for lunch and Maceo walked to the store to buy it.  Herb had some pork marinating while we were gone and immediately cooked it and some mac and cheese for dinner.  All that and we have leftover bread and pasta salad and cookies and such.  Nice!

Wednesday:
We had a little money come in and after paying bills I did splurge just a little bit.  Bishop and I had lunch with our science group at a buffet and I bought pizza for the boys.  Herb bought some groceries and made red beans and rice - a nice frugal meal.  I caught Herb getting ready to throw out the white bean soup so that he could use the storage container.  I stopped him so that I could put it in the freezer.  I did just that and put some other items from the fridge into the freezer.  Into the freezer went two meals of white bean soup, one meal of white bean with tomato and kale soup, one batch of meat sauce for a future lasagna, and one meal of red beans and rice.  Another meal of red beans of rice was also put in the fridge.  When I went to the store to get freezer bags I saw that the brownie and cake mixes were on sale for 88 cents each.  I bought a couple of boxes of brownies and some cake mixes; I now have enough cake mixes in my food storage pantry for all the family birthdays.  I think I might go back and pick up several more so that they are available for potlucks or other holiday goodies.  I didn't get anything in the way of organization done today as I was really quite exhausted after science group.  (I think that I am still fighting crud.)  I did take a good look in the freezer while I put the food in there but I do need to officially clean it out.  Thus far this week I have organized the food storage pantry, the bread drawer and the fridge.  Not bad.

Thursday:
The boys and I spent the day checking out the hottest new attraction in our area, Wonders of Wildlife. For the boys and I to visit this attraction it would typically cost us $120.  They offered a homeschool day with special pricing so we jumped on it.  It only cost us $44 and was totally worth it.  We did go out to eat for lunch.  I didn't originally intend on paying for lunch out but we ran into some friends who had their house burn down a couple of days ago.  They had gone to WOW homeschool day for a bit of a distraction and I thought that there was tremendous value in taking them out to eat and visiting with them.  No regrets!

Friday:
All of the food storage areas have been organized and the freezer has been inventoried!  I am always amazed at just how much food I have in my little freezer.  We definitely have enough for a month of dinner and some breakfasts and lunches.  I think I will try to make a list of possible meals for each and post it in a readily accessible place.  I hope that it will inspire my husband to use what we have on hand rather than heading to the grocery store first thing in the morning.  He loves to do this.  I'm asleep and he heads to the store spending roughly $23 each time.  I did do some shopping at Aldi today and will do a little more next pay period, mostly for eggs and cheese and fruits and veggies and such.  I will also need to determine the Super Bowl menu and the Valentine's menu.  After coming home from shopping I noted that no one had made lunch yet so I made a quick pasta with meat sauce and it went over really well.  I used the remainder of pizza sauce that was in the fridge as part of my sauce.  I normally wouldn't do that but we were out of pepperoni (the must-have ingredient around here) so I figured I might as well get it used up.  For dinner, I had the remaining pasta salad leftover from the lunch that I packed for our trip to the VA hospital.  There is also a pot of posole on the stove that came out of the freezer.  Maceo is getting ready to perform some Shakespeare and I am now debating whether I have the energy to go enjoy some free entertainment.  If I don't go I will spend the evening getting some laundry done.  The food stuffs might be organized but there is still more to organize and clothing definitely needs sorted through.

Saturday:
Bishop and I spent the day at a boy scout's merit badge university.  For a mere $5 Bishop and I both received seven hours of instruction on Nuclear Science.  It was an amazing class; we both learned so much!  I also bought Bishop lunch at the event for $6 he got two hot dogs, a bag of chips, a couple of cookies, and a beverage.  He gave me one hot dog and half a bag of chips for my lunch.  It was a great day for us and all the money we spent at the merit badge university goes towards a high adventure trip for another scout troop.  Win-win!
And, with that the week ends.

52-Week Challenge:  As I previously deposited money for all four weeks of January the balance remains $47.

Learning Jar O' Change:  To the previously balance of $65.80 I added $2.11 for a new balance of $67.91.

Frugal Accomplishments on the Road to Financial Fitness

Admittedly, we have not had many frugal accomplishments as of yet.  At least not enough to counteract the hemorrhaging of funds thus far.  I have got to develop some sort of plan to get the spending under control but it is proving to be difficult due to things not entirely within my control.  Sigh.
So, I will seek to control what I have control over.
By jotting down the successes that I have in that area I hope to find encouragement.
So, here we go small and simple successes and frugal accomplishments that will hopefully help get us back on the road to financial fitness and keep us there.

-We began this new year with celebrations.  Bishop turned 17 and he shares a birthday with a cousin and that cousin's daughter, who turned one.  The moment the wee one was born we all committed to having a birthday buddy birthday party.  The year sped by way too quickly, the birthdays were upon us and we had to plan a party quickly.  We decided on a theme and went at the planning and preparation.  Not every decision made was the most frugal but many, many were and I will share some of those now.  The decorations were created with things that we had on hand, ribbon that was discounted by 50% and floral picks that were in the Christmas section at 66-80% discount.  Most of the food that I provided was stuff that I typically have on hand with fun little twists added to it.  I was tempted to buy food coloring (to add some of those fun twists) that matched the cakes colors precisely but thought that I might have some on hand.  I resisted the temptation and found gel food coloring at home that worked perfectly.  I also resisted the temptation to buy sprinkles that were on clearance and were "perfect" and I found the truly "perfect" ones at home.  I also had candy melts at home that I found useful.  I did purchase some fun colored candy melts to use but will also use them to make Easter treats.  Other things that I purchased will also be used for Easter.  I will repurpose the decorations but add dangling Easter eggs.  I bought plastic tablecloths in orange so that I could use them in the future for football parties (my favorite team and Bishop's favorite team both have orange in their team colors).  The ribbon I will use for gift wrapping.

-For my nieces birthday gift I gave her three beautiful dish towels that I bought with Kohl's cash a couple of years back hoping to embellish them and gift them.  I chose three that, although not embellished, match her home well.  I also included a pan that I owned that she had been eyeing.  This is a well-loved pan, used frequently, but the look in her eyes when she first saw it made it easy to give it up.  I wrapped it in a robe box that I bought a couple years back at a post Christmas sale.  It probably cost me a quarter.  I finished the package with some ribbon that I had bought while 50% off.   I gifted the remaining roll of ribbon to Sarah as well as it was something she eyed while we were in Hobby Lobby together.

-Speaking of gifts, Christmas gift giving was a mixed bag.  We may have over spent on our kids but I think I did really well on the extended family.  I don't do Christmas cards and I don't always do gifts.  Sometimes, though, things just fall in line.  In the past I have had the goal of sorting through every nook and cranny of my home and parting with some of my stuff.  While doing this I would set aside some nice things that might could be used as gifts.  Oftentimes, these items were kits that the kids and I never got to and they have since outgrown or something similar.  I went through my stash and had something for everybody.  I gave the Bible origami that I had intended on doing several winters ago to one grandniece, she loved it and started in on it immediately.  Many years ago I gave each of the boys nice slingshots and somehow I purchased an extra one.  I gifted it to a grandnephew, he loved it and has been using it to shoot grapes at targets. :)  Maceo redid his room and opted to get rid of a metal sign that says "Theatre" so we gifted it to the grandnephew that does theatre and he loved it.  I gave my nieces plates that say "Jesus is the Reason" that I have used in the past but were ready to part with.  I then had them fill up the plates with goodies from my goodie table.  I then wrapped it with Christmas saran wrap that I had purchased years ago at a post Christmas sale.  They loved it as they decided that they wouldn't have to stress over baking cookies for Santa now.There are more but this gives you an idea of what I did and how successful it was.

-I wrapped each of those gifts in brown craft paper, used the tags that I made some years back and accented them with ribbon and bows that I already had on hand.  The wrapping was even considered a success.  People actually commented on how pretty the wrapping was.  This confirms for me that this is how I will wrap presents in the future.  I have had this idea for quite some time but have needed to work my way through the stash of paper that I had.  My thought is that brown craft paper is cheap and versatile.  It can be used for every occasion.  It can be stamped or painted or just accented with simple things.  This is what I will be doing from now on and this is why I felt it was ok to buy an assortment of ribbon for the birthday party.  It can be repurposed as gift wrapping.  I am also saving all brown paper bags to use as wrapping.  If it is a nice handled bag I intend on collaging or painting over the store logo to create a custom gift bag.

-I have done a similar simplifying of my card giving.  I have downsized my card collection, even getting rid of most of the vintagey type ones, and am only giving out cards that have been made by family.  I have cards that are prints of my step mothers paintings, she gifted these to me.  I also have cards that I have adhered photos that the boys or I took.  I purchased brown tag paper type cards from Hobby Lobby with 40 or 50% off then glued the pictures on.  All of these cards are blank so they work for every occasion based on what I write on the inside.  I have been using these exclusively for months now, even for Bishop's birthday card, and it is cheaper and less stressful.

-Walgreens had sparkling grape juice discounted to a third of what I typically pay so I purchased all that I would need for Easter, Thanksgiving and next Christmas.  For what I would typically spend on beverage for one holiday I was able to purchase what I needed for the year.  (This saved me about $7.50)

-I like to plan ahead.  Just as I know that we will use ate least six bottles of sparkling beverage per year for the holidays, I know that we will use at least one yellow cake mix and one white cake mix for birthdays throughout the year.  In November or December I found cake mixes  on sale for $1 so I picked up several and had a yellow cake mix ready for Bishop's birthday.  To this I added a homemade frosting and candles in my stash.  (I just looked up what bakers charge for a two layer birthday cake and am a bit stunned.  Now, I will admit that a cake purchased from a baker would look a lot nicer than this cake but my insistence on baking the family birthday cakes probably saves us about $30 for each cake).

-Bishop's boy scout troop had a lock in.  We took treats using what we had on hand, although I did buy two bottles of soda.  I made chocolate chip cookies. chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate chip dip with graham crackers and a meat, cheese, cracker tray.  I helped create quite a smorgasbord using, primarily, things leftover from all the recent celebrations.  The smorgasbord was so impressive with every one else's offerings added to it that the boys couldn't finish all that we had provided and some of the treats returned to their respective homes, which my family loved.  (Although I used up some resources at home I saved myself a trip to the grocery store, the risk of impulse buys and at least $10 in purchases of chips, etc.)

-I needed toothpaste and I need to begin to replenish by pantry so I made a quick trip to CVS on Saturday evening before the sales change with $6 in my pocket to see what I could get.  I got a tube of toothpaste for $1, 14 elastic hair bands for Bishop for $1.25 and two gallons of water because Bishop requested some and Maceo will need it for rehearsal on Sunday.  I spent $4.50 and kept $1.50 in my pocket.  The hair bands I will add to my stash.  If Bishop doesn't NEED them before Easter they will go in his basket.  I think this is a good start and I will follow it up with taking a sneak peak at the the coupon inserts and sales papers.  (My true savings on these items are $5.)

-I redeemed 2200 swagbucks for a $25 Amazon gift card.

-I worked 1.75 hours for our community theatre in exchange I don't pay for Maceo's troupe and additional training.  (This has an approximate weekly value of $34).



52 Week Challenge:  I cleaned out a purse that I stopped using nearly a year ago and found a lot of cashola; $47 to be exact.  So I deposit that $47 into my 52 Week Challenge account for the entire four weeks of January.  This fulfills the $25, $12, $6 and $4.

Learning Jar O' Change:  I began the month with $57.68 in my learning jar.  To that I add $6.46 for a new balance of $64.14.

The Weeks Frugal Accomplishments

May 18 - 24

Thursday:  I spent a bit of money to start the day.  I had to refill one of Maceo's prescriptions.  Then I stopped off at WalMart to get some items upon Herb's request.  In the course of documenting expenditures, I have found that either Herb or I have gone to the grocery store every day for the last week.  This is not a good thing.  Assuredly, we are spending more on groceries doing this.  This must change.
While I was at the doctor's office I saw that samples of baby products were being given away.  As I have a lot of friends having babies over the next several months I picked some up.

I have continued to sort through my homeschool resources.  I was originally going to take the resources I could part with to the homeschool consignment shop but today I saw a notice for the homeschool sale for homeschool resources.  I can get a table for $15.  I think that I can recoup that.  I plan on giving it a try and making that decision has, interestingly, allowed me to part with more items.  I guess there are some items that I won't part with if I have to take the reduced price of the consignment shop but will part with if I can get closer to full price.  I will continue to plug away.

Herb used the leftover pork and chicken to make caesar salads.  He also used bread that was fixing to turn to make croutons.  Very good!

I spent the evening working around the house.  I made progress in the yard and basement, as well as sorting through the books.
Even after my big talk at the beginning of this entry about needing to reduce spending on food I caved in and bought pizza for Maceo after his rehearsal.  I did use a 50% off coupon.
Maceo did get paid for participating in the opera's school tour - Nice!!!

Friday:  Bishop worked at the homeschool convention today.  He did pottery demonstrations as marketing for his pottery school.  Payment hasn't been discussed but in the past he has been paid for doing this.  Either way he gets something out of it; it is a great experience for him.
I attended the convention.  I paid for admission and did buy a couple of new resources.  In return I have been rejuvenated.  Fellowshipping with my fellow homeschoolers helps focus and rejuvenate me for the years left with the boys.  Listening to the speakers helps give me focus and inspiration for what I am considering doing after our personal homeschool journey has ended - public speaking and writing about homeschooling.
I got some free homeschool resources, including a full high school ecology curriculum from the conservation department.

Herb made a chicken fettucini using chicken that was leftover from Mother's Day and what was at hand.  We had it for both lunch and dinner.
Herb spent a huge portion of the day disputing a bill.  He is not finished yet but has managed to reduce the bill by about $100.
Maceo was asked to help a friend with some work and was offered very flexible employment.  Perfect!
I continued to work on sorting through my homeschool resources while watching some Netflix.

Saturday:  Bishop and I returned to the homeschool convention.  He worked and I went to a couple of presentations.  I managed to fit in two more presentations.
A friend gave me a homeschool convention pass for Herb to use so that he could see Bishop at work.
Herb made us french toast and sausage before we left for the convention and made a roast chicken and kale salad for out lunch and dinner.

Overall, we all had a great day socializing with friends then relaxing at home.
I worked on my organizational project while watching a bit of Netflix.
I worked swagbucks just a little bit.
I found a free issue of The Forensic Teacher magazine and a 450 page illustrated guide to home forensic science experiments which will be useful this next year for science group.

Sunday:  Herb made one of the best posole's I have ever had.  For the pork he used a pork roast that we had in the freezer.

I signed up to work the boutique at the theatre during the run of The Addams Family production.  I will get to watch the show for free when I do work the boutique.
My most favorite frugal thing of the week was attending a free event at a park in a neighboring town.  For the price of just a little bit of gas I got to  hear the National Cherokee Youth Choir perform and watch the world champion hoop dancer perform, among other things.  Loved it!!!

Monday:  For lunch, we had leftover posole than we placed the remaining posole in the freezer for future use.

I tried a couple of new recipes; recipes that I am considering using for an upcoming baby shower.  We had everything necessary on hand.  I made a simple homemade pizza sauce recipe.  Bishop made a pizza with a cauliflower crust, successfully using the cauliflower before it turned.

Tuesday:  Herb used leftover chicken to make a fettuccine alfredo.
I did some work on the yard and herb did some work on the basement.  Doing the work ourselves saves us a tremendous amount of money and we learn new skills as well.
Bishop had some torch time at the glass studio.  In the hour that we purchase for $15 he created 15 beads.  He has also found himself a mentor of sorts.  The owner is so supportive of Bishop.  Today he gave Bishop two catalogs in hopes that they will inspire and educate him.
Bishop also went to open studio.  He spent about 4 1/2 very productive hours there.  He glazed two vessels and trimmed a ton of pots that he had thrown during his demonstrations at the homeschool convention.
I purchased Christian's airline ticket to return home next month.  While purchasing I used a promo code that reduced my total by $40.  Awesome.  I also activated the swagbucks shop and earn feature.  I will be getting 250 points for each dollar spent.
Also, did a little work on swagbucks.
I watched some Netflix while relaxing and doing some housework. 

Wednesday:  I had leftovers for all of my meals - fettuccine alfredo for lunch and posole for dinner.  The boys ate frozen pizza for lunch and I made chicken breasts and broccoli for their dinner.
Herb got a beef stew going for tomorrow's meals.
Herb also tried his hand at creme brulee using what we had on hand.  We were out of vanilla so he used maple syrup instead.  I preferred it this way.  It was very good!
Bishop went to open studio again.  He is definitely capitalizing on our investment.

The Weeks Efforts to Craft a Rich Frugal Life

May 4 - 10

Thursday:  Bishop went to open studio.  He made progress on his art piece and made two vessels that a family member has ordered.

I went by Hobby Lobby.  I intended to take a look at their glass rod selection.  We need to purchase some for Bishop's bead making torch time that he will have next week.  I would love to be able to get them from Hobby Lobby with a 40% off coupon; alas, I forgot to check because I got caught up in other projects.  I did use a 40% off coupon on another frame for Maceo's show posters.  I also purchased four spools of ribbon that were 50% off.  I will be making some fun pennant buntings for Maceo's 18th birthday celebration and then his graduation party.  The theme for his birthday party is "Childhood Revisited".  He has a time capsule that was made at his baby shower to open so I think this theme is appropriate.  So, I also think bright fun buntings are also appropriate.  I will then use them alongside the other buntings and tissue paper decorations that I will make in the future for his graduation party, which will be a bright garden party.  I spent $10 at Hobby Lobby.

I was pretty proud of myself at Hobby Lobby.  I resisted temptation over and over again.  Their spring shop items were 40% off and it was tempting to buy a pretty for the yard but it wasn't necessary.  I resisted.  I then remembered that I had some items for a project but needed a few things to finish it off.  I grabbed a couple dowels and some spray paint only to remove them from my cart later as I remembered I have approximately 2.5 million sticks at home that would work just as well as dowels and wouldn't need painted and sealed.  Money saved!
I ushered a show at the theatre last night and got to see a delightful production for free.  While there I signed up to usher The Addams Family, the next production.
I took the boys out for half price appetizers at Applebee's after the show.  It was unnecessary but I really enjoyed it and it was half price.

Friday:  Although we spent the morning getting Maceo's echocardiogram and then, for whatever reason, I required a nap, I did manage to get a little yard work done.  I mowed most of the back yard and did some work clearing two different beds.  I weeded the vegetable beds and transplanted some seedlings.  I thinned the radishes and kept those thinnings to use as microgreens in a salad or a stir-fry.

Bishop went in for more open studio.  Yay!
Herb made really great sauces - one green chile and one red chile.  We made enchiladas with them.  Herb had them for all of his meals.  The boys had grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch then the enchiladas for dinner.  We had everything that was needed for these meals with the exception of more cheddar cheese.
I made chocolate chip cookies using just a partial bag of chocolate chips.
Maceo's improv group performed this evening.  Bishop and I laughed our way through this free performance.

Saturday:  The boys and I went to ArtsFest today.  Maceo was admitted for free because he was a performer.  Bishop and I used the tickets that we got in advance at a discounted rate.  We had a great time watching performances (or in Maceo's case, performing) and checking out some art.
A locally owned pet store was in attendance giving away little biscuits to the puppies at the event.  They were also giving away small bags of dog and cat food.  I got one of each.  Ladybird and Othello enjoyed the samples very much.
Our theatre was handing out flyers promoting The Addams Family, the next show that Maceo will be performing in.  The flyer had a buy one get one free promotion.  I went to the theatre and purchased my tickets for the show.  I scored the two complimentary tickets that Maceo gets as a performer then I purchased two more using the BOGO offer.  So I paid for one ticket and picked up four.  Yay!

Bishop went to open studio again.  He finished assembling the large art piece he has been working on.
Bishop's pottery instructor gifted us an apple turnover that he got from a local European bakery.  We gratefully accepted and enjoyed. 

Maceo viewed two shows.  One was at the community theatre and he got student rush pricing on his ticket.  The other was a high school production and only cost $5.
We did spend plenty of money today on art and at a food truck festival but that is something we can do on occasion when we have, otherwise, spent our money wisely.

Sunday:  We went to ArtsFest again today.  Maceo performed again and Bishop and I enjoyed watching him perform...again.  Bishop and I also watched a men's chorus and a local band.  All of us watched a local rapper, and friend, perform - Trak Masta Tom. so good!  We all walked around looking at the art vendors as well.  Bishop spoke with a local potter who shared information about crystalline glazes.  Bishop also spoke with members of a collaborative studio.  They very much want to work with him and share their knowledge.  They offer memberships to the studio, much like a gym membership.  You get to use all their equipment, and they have a LOT, with the membership.  Bishop also met a young man who produces music and offered to work with Bishop, teaching him what he knows.  It was a great day!
We did spend some money on food, mostly the boys ate out.
Herb stayed home all day.  He prepared a couple of dishes which he had for all of his meals.  I too ate that for dinner.
I washed ziploc baggies.
We listened to some of the cd's that Bishop checked out from the library.
The bulk of our day was spent enjoying ArtsFest.  In the evening Maceo had rehearsal and the rest of us relaxed at home.  I am watching a new show on Netflix, Hinterland.

Monday:  Herb cleaned a portion of the refrigerator.  He saw that we had a cauliflower beginning to turn so he made it into a rather delicious cauliflower soup.

Bishop and I went to the library.  We returned some items then checked out more cd's and some books on photography and ceramics.
I washed the vehicle.  I opted not to go to an automated car wash so as to save a bit of money.  I should really start washing it at home though.
I watered the herbs with collected rainwater.
I washed some plastic baggies.

Tuesday:  Ok, this was not a frugal day at all...only rich.
Maceo's phone stopped working so we opted to get him a new phone.  We will try to repair his old phone for Bishop or I to use.  We paid a bit of money, of course, but we did figure out that we were being double charged for insurance plans and rectified that situation.
The boys and I went to Tulsa so that they could attend a Chance the Rapper concert.  I gave them plenty of spending money and took them to Andolini's for dinner beforehand.  Not a cheap venture but so worth it.
While they were in the concert I first hung out at a Panera and used their wi-fi.  Then I roamed downtown and also sat in my vehicle reading books that I brought.
After the concert we stopped at a convenience store for some snack-a-roons.  The employees of the store gave them a bag of nine donuts that were going to be thrown out.  What a delightful treat!  The bonus was that Bishop was able to share those with a homeless man in the parking lot.
These are the memories!!!

Wednesday:  We all spent most of the day just chilling at home after last nights excitement.

I did have to get Maceo's eyeglasses repaired.  The arm came off last night when we were almost home.  Sigh.  Fortunately they were repairable.  Unfortunately they only had a white arm available to put on his black glasses.  It only cost $7 so I had them put on the white one to make the immediately usable and put in an order for a black one.  So I will put out a bit more money in the near future but I am grateful that I didn't have to replace them.

For our meals we ate a pizza that was in the fridge then feasted on other leftovers and items that were in the fridge needing to be used.
Now, off to bed to try to recover from the weeks adventures and get refocused on the goals at hand.

The Weeks Frugal Accomplishments

April 26 - May 3

Thursday:  The boys and I had a day out on the town today.  We went to the history museum to view their World War I exhibit.  Admission was $11 for the three of us.  We also went by the library that had an exhibit on the art of propaganda during World War I and by a park that has a connection to World War I.
I treated them to happy hour bevs at Sonic.
I, also, treated them to a bbq lunch.  This wasn't particularly frugal but we did bring home leftovers and we brought home bones for the dog.

I returned some books to the library and we all checked out more resources.  Maceo checked out some plays, Bishop checked out some world music and I checked out another lecture.
We started in on the world music.  Fantastic.

Friday:  Maceo read two of the plays that he checked out from the library.
I tried my hand at cornrowing Bishop's hair.

Bishop went to a birthday party.  For the birthday boy's gift he gave some of his games.

While driving Bishop to his friends house we listened to the music he checked out.  After dropping him off and on my return drive I listened to part of my new lecture.

Saturday:  Bishop spent the night with friends last night.  On my way to retrieve him I was really craving something sweet.  I figured I would pick up Bishop then stop off for ice cream on the way home.  I arrived at the friend's house to find her making waffles.  She offered, I accepted.  By doing so I satisfied my sweet tooth and kept my cash in my pocket.

Otherwise, we stayed home all day.  It has been raining, raining, raining - ugh.

Sunday:  The rain finally relented so I determined to work on weeding the flower bed that I hoped I would have ready before Mother's Day so that the boys could pick out plants for me.  Not only did I accomplish that but I managed to get the boys to the store to pick out plants and I got the plants in the ground.  I feel so accomplished and so worked out.

Herb's project for the day was to make tamales.  He did have to purchase corn husks; otherwise, we had everything else on hand.  Bishop made a really great green chile sauce to go with it.  An amazingly delicious meal at very little cost.

Monday:  I gratefully accepted a gift of a pastry and an iced tea from Panera.  I have such sweet friends!
I did a bit of grocery shopping at Aldi.
I had intended to also go by Home Depot to get two large flower pots for a project that I have going on in the front yard.  I had selected two perfect pots and was willing to pay the $50 each; however,  while at Aldi I found two large pots.  They are not ceramic, as the others were. but they were only $10 each for a savings of $80.
I simply served sandwiches and salad for lunch.
Herb made more tamales for dinner.

Herb did a bit of yard work and continued to make progress on the front yard.  I continued to work on the Mother's Day 2.0 flower bed and worked on removing some self-sown trees.  In the flower bed I added some plants that were transplanted from other areas of my property, including some of the bee balm plants that I started from seed that was given to me.

Bishop went to his culinary internship - an invaluable educational opportunity at an excellent price, nada.
I spent some time on pinterest planning a baby shower while I watched a little Netflix.

Tuesday:  We have a really cool event coming up this weekend, Artsfest.  We go to this event annually.  Maceo gets a free ticket because he performs there; however, the rest of us have to pay admission.  The tickets are $5 at the gate but, if they can be secured, they are $3 in advance.  I always try to get them in advance but they are usually sold out by the time I get there.  They weren't sold out this time.  I secured two tickets for at a $4 savings.
The tickets are purchased at McDonald's.  While I was there they were giving away a large beverage.  I encouraged another lady to take it.  She turned it down so I gratefully accepted it.  I took it home as a special treat for Herb.
Bishop attended a glass bead making class today.  It cost us $75 for two hours.  They may not seem particularly economical but I believe it to be.  We paid $37.50 per hour for him to learn a specialized skill.  During that two hour time period fourteen beads were made.  The glass shop sells these beads for $7 each.  Even on clearance they are marked at $3 each.  The beads alone would be valued at either $98 or $42 and he learned the skill.  He can now get torch time for $15 per hour.  He has already scheduled studio time and plans on making beads to sell alongside his pottery at craft fairs.  Cool, huh?!?
I paid the bills online.
A while back Herb had purchased a beef kidney thinking he would make a kidney pie.  The kidney, however, sat in the freezer for quite some time until Herb determined that he was too intimidated to use it.  He prepared it for the dog and I fed some of it to her today.  She thoroughly enjoyed it.
I did a ton of yard work.  I have been making tremendous progress.  I transplanted some plants.  I love using what I have on hand.  The pots that I purchased to flank the sidewalk were not quite as large as I would have liked so I elevated them to give them a bit more presence.  I used edging stones that I just had laying around.  A couple of years ago someone was giving them away.  I took them and have now found the perfect use for them.  I have the pots in place and have them planted.  I love it and the $80 savings was so absolutely worth it.

My irises are in full bloom.  I brought some in, placed them in one of Bishop's vases and am thoroughly enjoying them!

Wednesday:  Today was a typical Wednesday.  Bishop and I spent the morning at science group.  A group of friends get together and talk science - y things.  It is simultaneously education and entertainment; we so enjoy each other's company.  And all this fun is free.
We all went out to eat for lunch.  We ate at Steak and Shake after I dissuaded them from a more expensive option.
Bishop went to pottery.  He stayed an hour extra working on his new masterpiece.  He will not have anymore lessons for the summer so we will purchase him open studio by the month.  I hope he will log quite a few hours at the studio this month.
While we were driving around today Bishop and I listened to a reggae cd that he checked out from the library.
Herb made a really great dinner using what we had on hand.  He made green chile cheeseburgers and garlic fried potatoes.  He used sourdough as the bread for the burgers because that is what we had available.
Through Amazon I ordered three plays for Maceo and a new power supply cord for our keyboard.  I had enough in gift cards to entirely cover the cost.  I paid nothing!

Bishop used the internet to get more inspiration for his art and I watched some Netflix to unwind while Maceo spent his evening at rehearsal preparing for his next production.

The Weeks Frugal Accomplishments

April 13 - 19

Thursday:  I walked down to Panera where I had a free beverage awaiting me.  I drank some tea and made progress on a couple of books I am reading.
Herb and I went to the nature center for a nice little walk  - Vitamin D and nature, love it!
We utilized leftovers for lunch.  I had pastry pies, pasta salad and pumpkin bread.  Herb made a stir fry with leftover rice and such and Maceo had a chicken breast.
I took Maceo for a massage hoping it will help with his scoliosis as he is still skeletally immature.  There was a special last week that I missed out on but was told that if I reminded them this week they would give me that same reduced rate.  I did remind them and received $10 off the massage.  He received an hour long massage for $45.  That's a great rate and if it helps keep his scoliosis from progressing it's priceless!  While he was getting his massage I was talked in to sitting in the massage chair for a bit.  It was wonderful and so worth the price - free!
I watered the garden and checked it's progress.  The cabbage plants have nearly doubled in size.  The kale has come in quite nicely and the radishes are not far behind.  And, finally, the beets and swiss chard have germinated just a bit.  The lettuces have sprouted quite nicely as well.
For Maceo's dinner I ordered him a pizza from Domino's.  I had a free one just awaiting so I just paid $2.14 for the delivery fee.

I ushered again for Jesus Christ Superstar allowing me to see the show for free.  It was the perfect way to recognize Maundy Thursday.
Bishop made a late night pizza using items that he found in the fridge - chicken, bacon, red onion and bbq sauce.  It was really yummy! 

Friday:  My day didn't quite begin the way that I had intended but it is all good in the long run.
I woke up at 10 am - much later than I had anticipated.
I ate Herb's breakfast leftovers; it was cold but it got the job done and didn't allow for waste.
After breakfast I completed making my Easter menu, assessed the Easter basket fillings, and made a shopping list.
I went down to Panera for an iced tea and to sit and figure out my strategy for my CVS shopping and got waylaid by the arrival of a friend that I hadn't visited with in quite some time.  We sat for three hours and chatted; others joined us over time and we had quite a party going on before all was said and done.  I was gifted a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup and some chips.
I had to adjust my errand plans for the day because I spent so much time visiting.
I got Maceo's prescription refilled.  While I was at our pharmacy I picked up a couple of items for the boys baskets.  The Russell Stover chocolate covered peanut butter eggs were cheaper there than what I was going to pay for the Reese's eggs at CVS, even though those were on sale.
I returned some library books.
I was going to postpone my shopping trip but Herb really wanted me to pick up some whole milk so that he can make some whey.  I just went to the neighborhood market to get his milk and grabbed a couple of other items, to include dinner fixings, and will go to Aldi tomorrow to finish my Easter shopping.
Bishop grilled up some hamburgers and hot dogs for dinner.  Probably not the most frugal meal but satisfyingly delicious and it was really helpful for me that Bishop was willing to contribute his expertise.
Maceo had another performance of Jesus Christ Superstar this evening.  I ushered which allowed me to see the show for free.
After the show Maceo's improv group performed.  That was more free entertainment.
We returned home late and in need of a snack.  I had pumpkin bread.  I prepared Maceo sandwiches using the last of the wheat bread, swiss cheese and deli ham.
I saved the bags and plastic containers.  My intention for the plastic containers from the deli meat is to use them when gifting Bishop's baklava to folks at Christmas.
I received the Easter candy mold that I ordered from Amazon and look forward to making some Easter dark chocolates for the boys baskets.  If I have some white chocolate I might make some bunnies or ducks to put on top of the carrot cake cupcakes I will be making for Easter.

Tomorrow will be a busy day.

Saturday:  It wasn't a particularly frugal day.  I went to Aldi to pick up some of what I needed to make Easter dinner.  I spent $99 - more than I had anticipated but surely we can make this last into May.
I also spent another $20.  This expenditure I am pleased with, however.  Today was the final performance of Jesus Christ Superstar.  Someone offered up a ticket for $20.  I accepted the offer and really don't regret it.  The seat was amazing, the ticket was valued at $28, and this final sold out performance was absolutely amazing.  I am so glad that I didn't miss it.
I spent the evening preparing for Easter celebrations.  I am not as organized and prepared as I have been in the past but I know that it will all come together tomorrow.
I got some food prepped, folded napkins to look as if they are bunnies and molded some chocolate candies.

I watched a couple of episodes of Doc Martin on Netflix as a way to relax between kitchen tasks.

Sunday:  Easter has arrived; our Lord has risen!!!
We dyed eggs using the eggs that survived the egg drop on Wednesday and whatever dye we could rummage up.
I used the eggs, among other things, to create a little centerpiece with the tulips that I purchased at Aldi yesterday.  I purchased a pot of six tulips for $3.  It was kind of funny - the bouquets of tulips were running $4 and the pots of tulip bulbs were priced at $3.  This was a no-brainers.  I purchased the pot and will transfer these beautiful purple tulips to my flower beds after I have finished enjoying them inside.  Lovely!
I made Easter dinner - ham, loaded mashed potatoes, green beans, asparagus, rolls, cream cheese pie, carrot cake and chocolates.
When I first became a mother I tried my hand at making chocolates.  I liked the idea of making items for my kids Easter baskets or Christmas stockings.  I bought molds and did some molding for a number of years.  I then got rid of the molds and just took to buying ready-made  candy.  Now, I am regretting not having continued with that endeavor as I am finding it handy and frugal.  I just keep a variety of chocolate bars on hand and I can use them to mold for any occasion, for ganache and for baking.  So, today I made chocolates - I made some for the boys baskets, and some to decorate the desserts and a special flavor just for the dessert buffet.
We had leftovers for dinner.
I spent a little time just relaxing and watching a bit of Doc Martin on Netflix.

See if you can spot the frog in here!

Monday:  Herb made scotch eggs for breakfast.  They were a smashing success and they are really quite economical.  He used a dozen eggs that I paid a mere forty-three cents for, some sweet Italian sausage that we paid a couple of bucks for and a minimal amount of bread crumbs.  Cheap and yummy.
For dinner he made enchilada, refried beans and spanish rice all from scratch, including the red sauce for the enchiladas.  And, I have to say, the refried beans were really amazing.
And, as a bonus, there are leftovers!
Bishop went to his culinary internship.

Maceo had preprofessional acting and rehearsal for the next production.
Maceo and I spent a considerable amount of time developing a plan for his post-high school plans and what needs to be accomplished over this next year.
We did drop a bit of money today on prom preparations - corsages and tuxes, these are not cheap things.  Sigh.
The neighbor placed three flower pots (one of them is quite large) at the curb.  I claimed them.
I listened to the Orwell lecture from the library while doing all my driving and watched a bit of Doc Martin on Netflix.

Tuesday:  Maceo and I spent the morning and early afternoon out of the house as he had to have a CT scan and needed to turn in his prom paperwork.  We became very hungry while out and did get some fast food; we didn't use the Sonic gift card or choose an inexpensive place like Taco Bell so it may have been a bit of a setback on the frugality venture.
I had $10 in Kohl's cash.  While we were out we went by the store.  I got Maceo a beard trimmer and bought a bundle of dish towels that were on clearance.  The towels are beautiful spring colored towels that have an Easter label that is why they were marked down.  They were six towels for $4.
I went by Staples to make a copy of something that Maceo needed and found that they had lip balm on clearance for fifty cents.  I bought the three that they had left.
We had leftovers for most other meals today.

Between carting Maceo to and from theatre activities, I spent the evening doing yard work.  I mowed the lawn and moved around and updated some planters.
I turned a galvanized wash tub into a planter.  Inspired by the idea of hugelkulter where one makes raised beds by mounding branches, leaves, cardboard, etc than covering with soil, I decided to fill the bottom of the tub with branches, leaves and egg cartons before adding the soil.
Into the planters I sowed nasturtium, calendula, marigold, and English daisy seeds that I had on hand.
I listened to the George Orwell lecture from the library, read a library book and watched a little Netflix.

Wednesday:  There was a picnic in the park after science group today.  I packed my vintage basket, complete with vintage plates and silverware and cloth napkins, with deviled eggs and pumpkin bread.  For dessert I made sweet biscuits for strawberry shortcakes and packed strawberries and whipped cream, as well.  I packed enough to share with everyone.  It was a pleasant treat enjoyed by all.

Herb got a pork loin out and he split it in two so as to get two meals out of it.  We had one for dinner as seared pork steaks and the other half is brining in the fridge as we speak for yet another meal.
A friend offered up some seedlings to me and I gratefully accepted.  I received four onions and eight beefsteak tomatoes.  Very exciting!
Overall, it has been a good week and I look forward to another week of intentionally frugal living.