10.18.2013

Cheapskate

I am a self-proclaimed cheapskate.  In areas where I have primary jurisdiction over spending money, I do what I can to not pay more than is necessary for things.  I had a three-minute soul search earlier this week over whether to purchase a shirt that was 70% off the regular price at Kohl's, plus an additional 20%.  I really liked the shirt, but it was $9.  Knowing I could probably find similar item for  less at Goodwill made me think twice... And thrice... And whatever comes after thrice.  (I wound up getting it, and no, have not looked back since).  Being a good steward of money is important to me, but so is my time.  Extreme couponing and traveling to a grocery store just for one item that is a great price isn't worth the trade off.

Having said that, I've picked up several household and food-related tips that save us money and time (in the long run).  I'm aware that there are limitless websites that contain similar ideas.

1- The freezer is your friend.  When they are in season, I find a farmers market or pick-your-own place, get a buku of stuff, peel, chop, bag, and freeze.  (Many friends who swear by canning because of the threat of power failures and the potential to lose everything.  What can I say?  I like living dangerously).  This year, I did peaches, raspberries (red and purple), blueberries, blackberries, peaches (diced and pie filling) peppers (bell and various hot), tomatoes, pumpkin, apples (in the form of applesauce, pie filling, and apple butter) and onions.  The only painful one is onions, but grab a candle, crackers, tissues, chemistry goggles, or whatever helps you get through a big bag of tear-inducing veggies.  I've got all I need for the year and got it at low prices.  It's ready to use and is still fresh-tasting once thawed.

2- Laundry detergent that doesn't come with a soft, high-voiced, annoying bear.  It's a ton cheaper without loads of unpronounceable chemicals and blue dye #3.14.  The one I've found that I love uses water, washing soda, borax, and bar soap.

3- Ditch the deoderant.  There are tons of homemade deodorant recipes out there but I've found that using a dusting of baking soda lasts longer than store-bought chemical-sweat-suppressors.  I was a bit leery at first, but after a day, I was totally convinced.  Again, waaaay cheaper.

Lastly, this isn't exactly a tip, but is worth every second you spend peeling and coring: Goodness, gracious, great balls of apple butter, try this immediately: http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/crock-pot-slow-cooker-apple-butter-recipe/

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