Setting A Gypsie Up For Success

The Gypsie Challenge is a simple concept. Spend as little as possible for one month. After the gluttony of December, we are ready for a bit of self denial. But as ALL of us know, good intentions pave the way to Hell.
A dream without a plan is only a wish.
So, in amongst the Auld Lang Syne New Years Preparations, your very first Gypsie Assignment is this:

1.)  Set a simple, achievable goal.

2.)  Make a detailed plan for how to get there.

3.)  Post your plan in a place you will look at AT LEAST twice a day.

For example:

I, Victoria, will pay off my MasterCard by February 1, 2011.

I will do this by:

a.)  Not eating out in January (unless I don't have to pay - ie. gift cards).

b.)  I will complete a pantry challenge in January (more to come on this).

c.)  I will have a sale in my Etsy shop (on now, free shipping & 25% off. Coupon Code: WinterBlowout2010 ) to raise funds.

d.)  I will not purchase any clothing (again, gift cards are exempt).

e.)  I will use my car less to save money on gas.


NOTE: I know that there are at least four of us, but come ON! We need a bit more momentum! Leave a comment or shoot me an email to join the Gypsie Challenge!!!! Latecomers WELCOME!

A New Year of GYPSIE CHALLENGE!!!!

Hello All,

I have fallen sadly behind in my frugality blogging. Reasons? Many. Debt? Yes. Frugal? Trying.

And so, with the approach of the new year, and all things new, I have decided to pay off my credit card in one month. Yes. And to the horror of all people out there who are private about their finances, I will disclose the amount I plan to save/pay off this month.

ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! MUah, ah, ah!!!!

This is my first financial goal of 2011, and I am totally going to rock it!!!

For those of you who were gypsies with me last year, you will remember the pain and glory of the GYPSIE CHALLENGE!

The premise is simple: spend as little as possible for the month of January.

What ever you do after that is a matter of personal preference.

I, for one, am going to embrace a pantry challenge, no eating out, and gas conservation.

If you would like to follow, and I really hope you would, just leave a comment below (you need to have a blog profile to do so, but don't worry - it's painless and quick) and let the frugality begin!!!!

It's Boring. But CHEAP.

This morning we ate slow cooker oatmeal for breakie. Not the sexiest breakfast ever, but when you are feeding three grown men, a ravenous toddler and yourself, you occasionally have to compromise with cost effective options.

I made the mistake of eating this plain once, and it almost turned me off of oatmeal forever. Just don't do it. In order to make this bowl-of-hot a success, you need to gussie it up before you even look at it close.

Luckily for me, peaches were 77 cents a pound yesterday (which is DIRTY DIRT CHEAP). So I dressed up my oatmeal with peaches, skim milk and sweet. My baby got raisins (and ate like a hungry, hungry caveman) and my man snagged himself a combination of the above.

Here is the basic recipe, which you can spice up to your liking:

Slow Cooker Oatmeal (As seen in Company's Coming)

2.5 Cups Old Fashioned Oatmeal
5 Cups of Water
1/2 tsp Salt

Mix it in  your 3.5 quart slow cooker on low overnight. That's it. And if it sounds plain it is. The onus is on you to make this cheap meal a success. (Break out the cinnamon, Compadres)

Working Girl

Yesterday and today I am filling in at my husbands work as a laborer. It's nice to be able to help him out and work with him, and it's even nicer to get a bit of extra money. He says I am a hard worker, and I have to say that's a little badge I will wear with pride. AND we got to take our coffee break together so we went on a coffee date. Oh, so nice.
So these two days have consisted of getting up, and tearing around the house getting all sorts of things done before 8am. Including dinner.
Can I just remind you how frugal and amazing it is to use your slowcooker? I mean DINNER FOR TONIGHT IS DONE! DONE!
And so cheap. So much cheaper than being exhausted at the end of the day, picking up our daughter from the sitters and then making a bad decision last minute to hit Wendy's because we are so hungry we simply cannot wait to go home and cook before we can eat.
Well, I am off to work.
Bye.

Inspiration: Sharing

Yesterday morning, with hot coffee and muffins (naturally decaffeinated green tea for me), I had the opportunity to sit down with a girl from my church and teach her a bit about budgeting and frugality. It was so great to be able to share some of the lessons I have learned with someone who wanted to make a positive change. It also helped me see how far I have personally come - sometimes I feel like because our budget is so tight, I am not doing a good job. But I am.
It was inspiring and created fresh desire in me for being frugal.
If your feeling a bit stagnant in your frugality quest, I highly recommend helping out a friend with theirs!

The Spot

In our quest for frugality, we have recently discovered a 'spot'. It's been there all along, but it was hard to see at first.

It is the point where our priorities, our self control and our budget meet.

We could, potentially live on less than that, but it would mean compromising on our priorities and a level of self control I don't personally possess (ie - eating a lot of potatoes and white rice and staying home all of the time = an unhealthy lifestyle). So we are faced with an mildly foreseen truth.

The spot rests in a slightly higher pay bracket.

We have stretched our bucks as far as we can (with the occasional relapse into spend mode that we are still trying to pay off), and now the time has come for change. I think it's important to take stock and realize when a change needs to be made. Every one can benefit from that.

So we are looking at income options for both of us that fall within these guidelines:

1) I am a stay at home mom. We desire to raise our own children, so it's ideal that if I work, it is from home.

2) Even though money is important, our marriage is MORE important, so we won't allow a situation where we don't see each other for whole days.

And after that - it's all idealism, really.

Roughing It: On The Line

During the summer months, I have been trying to line dry as much laundry as possible. I know I've written at length in the past about saving money in the laundry room, but I have just got to post about how much I am loving my little laundry line and rack in the summer sunshine on my back porch. It all started with a little pamphlet in my hydro bill. The pamphlet was offering a $75 dollar rebate to any household who could, over the course of a year, reduce their energy usage by 10%. 

As I have just acquired two male boarders, I didn't even consider their offer - my bill will be going up, not down. But some of their suggestions appealed to me; particularly the challenge to line dry our laundry. 

At first, it was a pain in my tookus. 

It takes four times as long to hang it as it does to throw it in the dryer, in addition to which we have wasps slowly taking over our back porch so the irritation of those precious minutes was compounded by wasp evasion. But as the days have turned into weeks, my daughter has started 'hep'ing mummy, which is sweet though terribly inefficient. And there is something surreal, in the very best meaning of the word, about wearing an apron in morning sunlight and hanging warm, clean smelling, damp clothing on haphazard ropes strung on your porch to the sound track of wasps wings and lawn mowers. 

As your bare feet kiss a sun warmed porch, something inside your soul just knows that it's GOOD.

Bibles For Missions SCORE

3 Pairs of Shoes.

1 Pair of Rubber Duck Boots

2 Change Pad Covers.

1 Play Pen Base Sheet.

1 Dress.

1 Onesie.

1 Sweater Vest.

1 Pink T-Shirt.

One Low, Low Price.

$3.15

Damn, I'm good.

Glow On, Little Worm, Glow On

Everytime we go to Wal-Mart, my daughter finds a glow worm in the toy isle and carries it around Wal-Mart pushing the button to make it glow and sing over, and over, and over again. It is sweet to watch, but with a price tag of $15.64, I just could never justify buying her one just because she liked it so much.

Yesterday, Bibles For Missions was having a 50% off sale on their toys. And...

Guess who scored a fully functional near mint condition glow worm for a buck?

That would be me.

Heat Waves, Speed Bumps and Band Wagons

Hello to my remaining two readers   :0D
My apologies for the neglect. Thanks for sticking around.
Money wise it was a bit of a brutal month.
There were speed bumps in our finances.
So I ignored the budget. And so I fell off the bandwagon.
Then, I tried to sell some items on Craig's List. And failed.
After that, I planned a garage sale. It fizzled.
So, I was discouraged and went shopping.
We went camping. Spent more than we could've.
I gained 5lbs on snack mix.
I took up novel reading. Again.

So you see, it was really to SPARE you that I didn't write. It would've discouraged you in your money saving endeavors. Really.
I swear.

Okay, so now that I've made my excuses, without further ado:

How To Survive and Save Money With Kids During a Heat Wave:

1) Find a local spray park to play at - they're free. I was invited to do this yesterday, and I loved it. If you bring snacks and blankets, this can evolve into an all day affair.

2) Make your own spray park in the yard. If you don't have a kiddie pool, be creative. Use a big tupperware. Heck, if your kid is small enough, use the turkey pan. We did this last year and it was successful - just remember that you'll need to be close enough to keep it from tipping.

3) Check out your community for free activities. The customer service desk in our mall has a huge selection of free pamphlets on self guided tours, local hikes and leisure center activities - all for free. Also, a friend told me this morning that our local library has loads of free kid activities and crafts on Wednesdays during the summer.

4) Your local newspaper is a huge resource for upcoming activities in the community and coupons for local businesses. I've clipped loads of half price coupons for our local waterpark from the paper.

5) Visit a pet store. They will be air conditioned and it will burn at least half an hour - besides, it's unlikely that you'll spend any money.

6) Go to the lake for the day. All day parking is less than $10.

7) Find a friend with a pool. :0D

8) Meet a friend for coffee at McDonalds (one with a play place). Again, air conditioning, so you can blow a few hours and only spend 2 bucks. Just make sure to feed your kids first and let them know you aren't going to buy them any food so they won't be disappointed.

9) Go to the library. You can pick out books to take home, but you can read books together there as well. A bonus for my local readers is that our library has a pond and ducks, so if you remember to bring bread you feed the ducks, too. (Note: you aren't supposed to feed the ducks. I know this, but I still save our stale bread for them. I think that the sign is up because people were feeding the ducks bad food, or something.)

10) Make your own popsicles.

Father's Day on The Cheap

Hi Friends.
Yesterday I made up my Father's Day Plan.
Experience has taught me that the only way to save money on special occasions is to PLAN AHEAD. This prevents a flurry of second guessed guilt spending the day before said event. I have drawn up a meal plan with recipes, a schedule of events (including a wake up time for me, because if I don't get up early AIN'T any of it going to happen) and a gift list.
If you are trying to find ideas yourself, the internet is a very helpful place - but if you don't have the time to look, I will try to help you out a little.

Questino's To Ask Whilst Planning Fathers Day:
1) What does my man enjoy?
2) What are his favorite foods?
3) What is my budget?
4) How much effort can I put in?

For us, I have time but not much $$$ to invest.
My man enjoys the outdoors and quality time with those he loves.

SOoooo...
I am going to start the day with a very special family breakfast: I have written to the other side of the world and got his mum's much raved about pancake recipe. Once he's off to work, I will prep lunch and get the rest of us off to church. We'll have a family lunch, then nap - and then a family bike ride through some local nature trails. Then dinner with friends on a farm.
For his gift I am making these cute magnets (possibly as tacks) for his work office, and getting everyone from the family to draw him a picture or make him a note. These little love offerings will all be placed in a "King Of The Day" box. And I will make a card out of stuff I have laying around.

This plan is simple and will cost me a grand total of $2.50.
And THATS how you do it on the cheap!

The Queen of Thrift

I have seriously outdone myself this time. I have been trying to stockpile larger sizes for my daughter so that when the time comes we won't be in a panic about clothes for her.
I hit BFM (Bibles For Missions) this week and they were having a sale. I got 12 items of clothing for my daughter and 5 books.
Just ask.
How much did I spend.
Just ASK!!!!


$3.52

Oh, yeah.

Shoe Love

Alright, if I haven't confessed it yet to you, it must be known that I have a problem with shoes.

I can never get enough of them.

This month we are REALLY trying not to spend money on extras, so I have not spent any unnecessary money except for buying me and a friend coffee, permissible because the last two weeks combined I have spent $60 less on groceries than I normally would in one week (the pantry and fridge are starting to look bare). But last night I went second hand shopping with said friend, and did completely okay until we hit the shoes. 

Shimmery, mint green, peep toe flats. 

Cranberry leather & wood strappy clogs. 

Sweating, I called my husband. 

And for the first time in my married life, he told me to come home without the shoes. 

Luckily, after I had put both pairs back on the rack and was waiting at the till for my friend to purchase her items, I thought to look if I had any VV coupons. Which I did. 

Which was for the exact price of the green flats, if I put them on my friends bill.

Which she generously allowed. 

And WALLLA!

Free shoes!

Yay coupons!

PS - You get VV coupons by buying thier calendar in December each year. They have a monthly coupon that is usually pretty good: buy 4 items get the 5th free, spend $100 get $50 off, etc.

Tell Me I'm Not the Only One!

Okay, so this week I was visiting with another crafty Mama, and I was introduced to a whole SLEW of new money saving directions. And what could this new multifaceted savings opportunity be centered around?
UTILITIES!

So, in my late night internet scouring zeal, last night I did some research. First I landed here. There wasn't much that I hadn't covered but for numbers 4 and 5; insurances and being energy smart. However, there was a lovely little pair of links that took me here (lowering your electric bill) and here (saving on your water bill). I stayed up too late reading all of that, but I have filled my schedule for months on little projects around the house!
These kinds of projects cost a bit up front, but they save you dollars every month. We are having a particularly squeezy month, so this month I will only do projects I can do for free, but I am exited to be resourceful!
Today, for my first project, I put a Faucet Aerator on my kitchen tap. Apparently, this reduces the flow of water without reducing the pressure, thereby saving money on Hydro. Who knew? 
And I was pleased to read that I am already saving money by saving 'grey' water for my plants! 


Did you know that you can apply through BC Hydro for a energy saving kit? You have to come in under a certain salary bracket to qualify (which they conveniently do not disclose on the brochure), but I am excited to try that this week. 


And I feel I should say I am sorry for leaving you hanging this past month with no posting - I've been all in my head and treading water, if that makes sense...

Staying Home

Today I saved money by loving my home life.
Lately I have been avoiding my house. As a stay at home mom, thats a bit of a problem.
But this morning, I dove into domesticity with nary a second thought.
I made laundry soap and scrubbing powder.
I made the best ever Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.
I cleaned, did laundry and organised.
I played good music and put Cranberry Clementine in my diffuser (oh, heavenly).
I gathered props for the skit on Friday night.
I drank coffee from my favorite mug, and read "The Message" to my daughter.

Finding contentment in the Everyday is a very sure way to save money, but a bit tricky to do.
I find that if I put on music that encourages me, light a candle (or a diffuser) and have a few minutes of quiet time to order my inner world, everything lines up and my day falls into place.
What works for you?

Kids Swap - The Big Red Barn

In Chilliwack as you head west there is a big red barn. Further out there is a big yellow barn. Believe it or not, these are actual terms of direction. As in, "You know, the exit by the big yellow barn." Please, no female driver jokes.
Anyways - yesterday was my first ever kids swap at the big red barn. I've heard about it MANY times from other mom's as the IT place to pick up hot stuff on the cheap - but I am either hopelessly out of touch with current events (actually, that's a fair accusation) or the organizers are crap at advertising. I was filling up with gas early Saturday morning, when a hand written sign on poster board let me know that I was at that very moment missing the kids swap.
So I popped in later when I had a few minutes. I was warned that all the good stuff goes quick, so I can't say what I missed - but I was very pleased and tempted beyond what I expected. However, I didn't loose control and only walked out with a few things that I had been wanting to buy anyways.
So, would you like to know the score?
For the grand total of $11, I got an outdoor swing (the kind you install from a tree branch or under your deck), one of those little four wheel trucks that toddlers can ride - Pooh theme with all of the musical buttons, etc. still in good working order, and (my favorite) one of those little popcorn 'vacuums'.
There were loads of clothes and toys and strollers that ranged from almost new prices to dirt cheap.
I will definitely attend next chance I get, and I highly recommend to the local girls that they do too!

Norwex, If you like that sort of thing

Okay, so I am still a fan of homemade cleaners, but I have found a new product that is spinning my tuque (as my mom would say). Norwex is a Norwegian company that makes cleaning cloths, among other things, that you only use water with. The cloths kill germs but are 100% safe for you and your kids. Clean your house with water. Shazam! How's that for natural.
The down side is that it's fricken expensive. Seriously.
UNLESS...
You host a party. I went to my friends party, bought a few items and signed up to host. My party was last night, and I am BLOWN AWAY by all the free stuff I am getting. Everyone should hose one and invite all their friends. This is one product that is worth spending on, if you can; but if you can't, it is well worth your while to make up some snacks and have the girls over.
The product I am specifically salivating over are their face cloths.
$20 for three, and they'll last at least 2 years. Sounds pricey. Until I tell you that you will no longer have to buy face soap (mine costs $30 every three to four months) or exfoliator (which if you haven't been buying, you seriously need to read up on exfoliating) OR makeup remover. Yes, it takes off foundation. Yes, even waterproof mascara. Yes, yes, yes. You can use up those products and not buy them anymore. These cloths are going to pay for themselves in the first 3 months. I LOVE how clean my face feels after I use my pink face cloth - it actually feels CLEANER.
So if you are at all interested, I would highly recommend it...

Roughing It - SPA 3.0

Last night was SPA night, and although this may not excite you as much as it excites me, I finally found a hair dye in the right color. Nice'n'Easy 120 (Natural Dark Brown). I have tried 4 different colors the last 4 times I have done my hair, which has left me a bit mottled looking, so things are looking up from here! What is really exciting about finding a color I like is that Nice'n'Easy sells touch up kits for 2 or 3 bucks cheaper, so if I don't change my color, I save even more money when I cover up those unsightly white hairs that are sprouting like weeds all over my head.

Any Requests???

Remember how I said that I was going to try to sell stuff online for the next big project? Well, after my friend commented on that post about her great successes in that area, I figured that it's been proven that it works, she says she's made a bzillion bucks doing it - so you don't need to hear it again from me. So I will skip that and find a new pasture to graze in.... only, I am not sure where.
Any suggestions, dear readers? Is there an area of money saving that you are interested in and would like me to head?
As you can tell from my infrequent posting, I am at a bit of a loss as to what comes next.
I'll do some brainstorming, and get back to you....

Oatmeal on the Cheap

I don't even know if I have mentioned it before, but a big savings in our monthly grocery budget is oatmeal. A big 1 kilo bag of it is between 5 and 6 bucks and will last a month. Considering that a box of cereal is the same price and will last a week, oatmeal is a good idea, even every few days.
Here is our tried and tested recipe:

Burton Oatmeal
(1 serving)
1/2 cup quick oats
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup water
Handful of raisins or cranberrys (optional)

mix in a microwavable glass bowl (make sure you've room to spare because oatmeal grows). Microwave uncovered for 3 minutes, then stir. Microwave for 3 more minutes. Stir again and let sit for a minute or so.

We eat it with brown sugar and milk, but I've been tempted to try honey... mmmmm....

America, Cheap America

EVERYTHING that I wanted was cheaper in the States.
My craft supplies (I needed special paint) was half the price.
My make up was 10 bucks cheaper.
My hair spray was close to the same.
A gallon (4L) of milk was $1.99.
And the lawnmowers were $100 cheaper than here, at regular price ($360 Here, $260 there - HOT). We didn't end up getting one though, because I have heard tell that there are some cheaper places right here in town, so we are going to investigate (and borrow our neighbors mower in the mean time).
And for the men out there: everything we looked at in Home Depot was cheaper there. In a disturbing role reversal, my husband was full of shopping excitement while I wandered around aimlessly with the baby wondering when we were going to eat.

Shopping Around, Internationally

We are going to visit one of my favorite people in Washington this weekend - and her mommy of course! One of my dearest friends moved to the States a few years ago for the love of her man, and in order to have any proper girl time, one of us has to make a road trip. I could pretend that this is a bad thing, but I happen to LOVE Walmart in the States. And Joanne's; my word, any other crafters out there?

So we are heading down tonight, and tomorrow we SHOP!

In times past, I would shop for clothes and girly stuff, but since we are homeowners now, our shopping is going to look a little different. For example, we are going to check out lawn mowers. Sexy, no? And I need new foundation, and I am wondering if it's cheaper there (my mom got me hooked on some really nice expensive stuff, but if it isn't cheaper in the States, I am going to try a cheap brand [shhh... don't tell]). If you stay 48 hours or more, the duty free limit is $450 - surely a lawnmower and some make up will be far less than that!

If you live close to the border like us, it's well worth the hour drive... I will let you know what we save!

Setbacks

Okay, so there are many reasons I have been such an infrequent blogger this month - but the most important one is... (sigh) our tax return.
I think it's important to share defeat as well as victory with you, my friends.
I have been counting on throwing a couple of extra payments on our mortgage this year (as is a responsible and LOVELY thing to do) with that tax return. For months I have been dreaming about watching that enormous number shrink a little bit extra this April. But as enormous as our tax return is this year, I don't think that we are going to do it.
Why?
Car repair $350
New tires ? (I was told $600)
Get Will & Power of Attorney $400
...
and the list goes on.
So I have been dreading posting, not because I feel like a failure, but because somedays this money thing seems impossible to get ahead in and posting about saving $5 on toddler shoes or cheap beef just seems a bit trite.
It seems silly to be so disappointed about not being able to make extra mortgage payments, but you know how you get your heart set on something?
And (oh, the horror of typing this out), yesterday our groceries cost me $200. It was like watching a car accident. We were just out of so much stuff...
So I post, dear friends, so that when you have a month of enormous unexpected bills and expenses, you will know you are in good company (with me).

Hopeful Herb Garden

As you can see, my little herbies are definitely not growing yet. Hmmm. Maybe it's too cold yet?

Baby Saving 2.0

Since I've been working a fair bit these last two weeks, I've been scrambling to find free child care. I have a few faithful friends who are more like family, really, and for the most part they've been able to cover most of my shifts, and gladly which is a real bonus. But I didn't want to stretch anyone too thin, so I tried to find a sitter.
Luckily, I know another SAHM who's pinching her pennies, so I asked her. And she said?
Keep your money. Let's swap hours. I'll watch yours if you watch mine later.
Genius.
We all have heard about swapping hours for dates or what have you, but I just hadn't done it yet. So for the very few of you, if any, who haven't heard the idea yet, I thought I would post.
It's an especially great idea for those of us who don't have grandparents near by who are itching to babysit.

Roughing It - Homemade Laundry Soap, The Verdict

Alright, I have been using homemade laundry soap long enough to feel like I know a bit about it, and here is my official tried and tested opinion.
This is the best recipe with the clearest and easiest to follow instructions. It was the first one I used, and it turned out the best.
For really dirty loads, I add an extra cup of washing soda to boost the cleaning power. And you really CAN use vinegar as a fabric softener (I noticed no fading or bleaching, but I don't use it in every load). The  "Dryer Balls" or reusable fabric softener sheets work fabby (just not on fuzzy baby blankets. Trust me)
BUT
Even with bleach and hot water, homemade laundry soap just doesn't cut it for whites or heavily soiled light colors. I have a baby, and a lot of her white & pastel colored items are now super stained.

So I recommend homemade soap for all medium and dark loads and the occasional light/white load. Which means that I went out today and purchased liquid laundry soap (a bit defeatedly, I assure you).

Along that train of thought though, YOU SERIOUSLY NEED TO TAKE A CALCULATOR, PEN and PAPER to the grocery store. I went in thinking I would pick up the cheapest detergent I could find and was all set to grab the biggest box of NoName powdered stuff when I noticed the amount of loads the box yielded. So I made my way down the isle with my calculator figuring out the price per load, and WONDER OF WONDERS, I got a name brand concentrated liquid detergent for way cheaper than the "economy" sized box. It just goes to show. They'll gouge you if they can so SHOP SMART!

Also, (although you thrifty animals probably already do this) today I bought the huge NoName brand dish detergent refill bottle and am just going to fill my empty Sunlight bottle up. It saves a bit of money, and it saves on packaging, so double bonus.

And can I just say that buying bulk is not always cheaper. Walnuts were twice the price in bulk as in the baking isle.

Spending Vs. Earning

If ever I was in doubt about my destiny as a stay at home mom (S.A.H.M.), this past week is proof positive that I am meant to either a) Stay home with my kids, b) Have no children and work; but definitely not c) Have kids and work.
In the span of two weeks I will have worked about 38 hours in addition to my regular SAHM duties, and (it being day 10 of my 14 day stretch) I am starting to feel... excessively respectful for the women who have to do this full time. Yes, I think that is exactly what I am feeling.
In addition to life's regular ups and downs, I am working almost 20 hours a week, packing lunches, doing laundry, cleaning house, making meals, listening to exuberant 20-somethings plan out their futures, run errands for other people, spend quality time with my distraught and disrupted one year old and on top of all of this, having to wear pantyhose and a full face of make up to be ignored and abused by women long old enough to know better.
And all I can say is that I hate the stress, and that the women out there who do this are crazy, amazing, tough and deserving of every praise. Stop and think for a moment. Some women work FULL TIME with children.
{Moment of respectful silence}

I am so grateful that I don't have to do this. That this week is simply an opportunity to help my old boss, replace what I spent last week, top up the grocery fund and buy a few much needed items.

But in order to not have to do this every week, I am willing to live with less.
I mean I would rather live without new clothes and nice cosmetics than be crazy stressed and neglect my family to have more money to buy more stuff. And I feel so blessed to be able to make that choice.

You can have money, or time; but no matter which way you choose to live, you will never get today back.

Sabbatical

Hullo Faithful Readers,

Sorry for letting you hang for the last week.
I took an unforeseen sabbatical.
And?
And I also spent money I didn't have in shopping therapy.
I did score some amazing deals, though.
I got a pair of high end leather shoes that retail around $180 for $20.
And I got some $30 moisturizer for $6.

I gave up on my naturopath diet for dinner one night and was repentant and reformed the next morning.

Anyways, I just wanted to let you know I hope to be back in the saddle this week.

If Organic is So Natural... Why isn't it Cheap?

Last night (THURSDAY), I had to go grocery shopping again because we ran out of produce and I can't eat much else. And I did my usual shop on Monday.
So I am a bit ripped off because our grocery bill is skyrocketing due to my Naturopath's instructions. How can I be frugal AND healthy?
I mean, you have no idea how frustrating it is to me that is cheaper to eat ALPHAGETTI or Noodle Soup, which are super processed and packaged foods, than it is to eat beans and rice, or fruit.
I try not to rant here too much, but DANG. DOUBLE POOP DANG.
Luckily this month I have a few opportunities to top up the grocery fund, but I can't help but think: In this RICH {and I mean REALLY REALLY RICH} country, why can't I afford to eat as God intended? Pure, wholesome, chemical free food?
Anyways, my friends, if you have the answer, enlighten me.
I will post again when my attitude has cleared up.
(Hmmfffph)

Scubbie Girls, taking a Break and the NEXT BIG THING

SO I read a few DIY Green cleaning books and watched a few DVD's, as you all know, and I am DONE. I like Karen Logan best, and all of the others were impractical or outrageously expensive (why NOT have a solar powered water heater?). I think I got really lucky by reading her first, because from what I have seen she is the clearest, most authentic and grounded author on the subject.
I hope that you have gotten as much out of the project as I have!
If I find new tips or tricks or (heaven forbid) a better book, I will post in future about it.

Right now I am turning my eyes towards money earning instead of money saving.
Interested? Here is what I am planning for my next project:
I have a few items that I would like to get rid of. I am hoping that by 'getting rid of' I actually mean SELL. So I am going to venture onto the online world of commerce and sell a few items on Craigslist, E-bay, etc., let you know how it goes, and give you any tips I come up with, because I happen to know you all have loads of crap in your closets you'd love to get some coinage for!

Energize THIS

Have you ever used rechargeable batteries?
I used to think that they were a waste of money; that they would lose their charge after 5 times and they would only work for a few hours before needing to be plugged in again. But THEN I married a techie who has opinions on all things electronic and was swept away in the tide of technological advance. First he talked me into buying my very own "Mac" and then he {very high handedly} told me that we use rechargeable batteries.
I will save you the trouble of reading THAT dialogue and tell you that I graciously agreed, knowing that I might possibly be mistaken about batteries. As it turns out, I was.
In the three and a half years we have been married, we have purchased four AA batteries twice, and they are still working very well in a myriad of little gadgets around the house. They come in a lovely little charger that plugs into a wall outlet.
Cost effectiveness? * * * * Four Stars
Depends - regular price for 4 batteries and a charger is $25-$30, and for the batteries alone is $15. BUT, you can find them on sale for $20 and $11 respectively. If you get the sale price, and each set of four lasts between 1-2 years (they've lasted longer for us), I'd say that's pretty good value for money.

Grocery Scrooge - Bread

I always do my grocery shopping first thing on Tuesday mornings. I try to get to the store between 8 and 8:30 - I love getting there when the displays are perfect and well stocked and I can take my time without being stampeded by 14 other people in a rust to get home.
Today my husband had a dentist's appointment on the other side of town, so I used that hour of dead space to save my self the trouble of having to shop tomorrow. I stopped at three different stores to price compare and bought a bit at each. It's worthwhile, at least where we live because the stores are very close, to go to each because each one has their specials meant to pull you in. Kin's Market has oranges for $.39 a pound, Safeway was scandalously expensive, and Superstore has cheap bread along with the lowest prices.
In Superstore, if you go early in the mornings there is always a rack near the bulk/meat departments FULL of day old bread and buns that are marked 50% off. Today I got 14 Grain Bread for $1.25, 12 Rolls for $1.25, 8 Wonder Hamburger Buns for $1.10 and a loaf of Sourdough for $1.20. Because they aren't fresh I  always freeze what we aren't going to eat that day.
I am a big advocate of making your own bread, but for the healthier loaves, you can't really beat prices between $1-2. And after trying my hand at bun making, I have to say that I prefer store bought buns for flavor, but it's just so much easier. And 12 cents a bun is pretty cheap.
Haha - cheap buns!

GIVEAWAY WINNER!

This morning I did the draw for the Clean House Clean Planet give away
and the Winner IS...
(drum roll, please)
CORY MAC!

I will get that to you this weekend, and a hearty congratulations!
Thank you to the others that participated - maybe you'll win next time!

Last Chance for the Giveaway!

I have the worst cold ever. I have been prone on the couch for a few days now and instead of getting better I seem to be getting worse... oh, the joys.

I just wanted to write to remind you that today is the last day for my Clean House Clean Planet giveaway - leave a comment on this post or the giveaway post for your chance to win. 

It's actually kind of funny because I thought it was this great idea and so far there's only one comment - I am guessing that not everyone is as excited about mixing their own cleaners as I am... :0D

Composter

So, as part of my new gardening persona, I decided to do composting. But compost bins were hard to find in town and when I looked online, ALL of them were more than $100. To put rotting vegetation in. Yeah, right.
So I went on craigs list.
And I would have you know that yesterday I became the proud owner of two recycled 58 gallon barrels (one for a rain barrel, one for composting) for the hot HOT price of $15 a piece. All I have to do to make the one in to a composting bin is drill a few holes in the bottom.
The rain barrel will be a bit trickier, because we are going to drill a tap into the bottom of it, but I have a plumber friend who is going to help us for cheap (maybe free?).
Also, I have been shopping around for gardening tools, and I got everything I needed for $2.50. Yep. I borrowed a shovel, edger and clippers, and purchased a spade, trowel and watering can for $2.50 at the local thrift store.
Man, I love a bargain.

A Green Experiment

I am going to try and grow a few herbs.
If you know me very well at all, you will know that I am very adept at killing plants and may be inclined to laugh, but I feel a new phase coming on, so I am willing to try and see if my brown thumb has turned green.
I purchased chives and rosemary at $1.79 a packet, and Stevia at $3.79 a packet. It cost about $6 for some seed starter and I am going to look at BFM for pots today. But I am also going to try using the bottom of a 4L milk jug as a starter container. If I  get a decent crop of Chives and Stevia, will definitely make back my expenses within a few months, so I think it's worth a gamble.
But I also (... I wonder if I have bitten off more than I can chew...) picked up onions and garlic for $2 a piece. I haven't decided yet how to plant them (in a container or the ground, but I would definitely make the money back if I can actually grow them.
Wish me luck... I am going to get started today.

Frugality's First GIVEAWAY!!!

Hello My Darlings,
Did I mention that this week was spring break for us? It was. And my routine has got all buggered up with sleeping in, staying home and snuggling my man. Ohhhh, poor me. :o)
But we have still been frugal, which is more difficult on Spring Break. There's a carefree scent in the air that you have to guard against. And the Master of the House smells it too. Two temptations are harder to squash than one. But we went swimming on our budget pass at the pool, wandered our local greenhouse and made good food at home. Oh - and we ravaged the local library of all its best books and movies. Spring Break on a budget has been bad for the housework but stellar for my nerves. (deep sigh of relaxation). Oh, and I made Frugality's Pea Soup once again - such a good soup!
And I've been thinking about you guys a lot.
Which brings me to a very fun announcement.

Remember my ranting and raving about "Clean House Clean Planet" by Karen Logan? Well, I believe in her book so much that I have a spanky new copy to give away to one of you, my lucky readers. All you have to do is leave a frugality related comment on this post. The deadline is midnight, a week from today (March 5), so start typing!
I am willing to mail this little book to Canada and the mainland US, but no further, so sorry to my readers farther away.
Oh, and should you desire to tell your friends about my little giveaway, please do - I'd love more friends on the frugality train!

Cheap Date (You FLoosY)

I find that one of the hardest parts of being on a budget is the lack of money for dates. Before we had kids, or before we were married, we thought nothing of going out to dinner, picking up Starbucks and hitting a late movie. Sounds pretty harmless, eh? But dinner out is going to cost you around $40. Starbucks will cost  you from $5-$10 and two movie tickets will cost you about $20. Thats a date that costs $70. Ouch. If only I had known.
So I have been compiling a list of free up to $10 dates that we use...

Cheap as a FLooSY dates:
1) Redeem Airmiles for free meal gift certificates. This week I looked and they have the Keg, Earls & BP in $25 and $50 denominations.
2) Redeem Airmiles for movie tickets - you can even get ones with popcorn!
3) Find an Arcade that still charges a quarter a play - $5 each will take you a long way. Our best local spot is Castle Fun Park.
4) Never underestimate the power of your local coffee shop. Share a large coffee and a cookie (in addition to being cheap it's more lovey; just look at Lady and the Tramp). I find there's so much pressure to be romantic because you get so little alone time, but just relax and talk or try doing a crossword together instead. [Airmiles also has Starbucks Cards]
5) Make your favorite hot drink at home and go for a long walk. I don't know about where you live, but we have some beautiful trails around here. Being beside water or under trees reminds you of your larger priorities. It's like a reset button.
6) Go for a drive. You can make this more romantic by parking and necking. :0D
I said NECKING, you dirty birdie. {I feel I should state that this last part is just an idea. I have never taken part in above mentioned activities}

Okay, so I know it's only six dates, but if you only go on a date once every two weeks (which is optimistic) that will last you 3 months. Three months worth of dates for less than $20. Sounds like a deal to me!

A Time to Spend

Forgive me for my infrequent and dispirited posting this week; my daughter is on day six of a rather irritating malaise. It started on Monday night when she woke up four times, feverish and fussy, the last time soaked in sweat and inconsolable. The next two nights were more of the same and the days were filled with crying and irritability. On the fourth day she broke out in rash which quickly covered her trunk and face and went from pin prick pink to red lace. And her ire increased. The doctor says it is nothing serious and to keep her comfortable and well watered, but I am no longer concerned about my daughter. After six days of being the sole care giver to a very temperamental one year old, I feel as though I need a strong sedative or a stronger drink before I do myself (or my husband) some serious harm.
Which brings me to my point.
There is a time to save, and a time to spend.
And I have decreed this as a time to spend. In moderation of course. Knowing that an ounce of comfort food is worth a pound of... er, Cure or something, I have desecrated the Pantry Challenge and purchased some treat items along with $20 worth of medication for my daughter. Also, we spent the 3 hours my husband was home today in walking to Tim Horton's and spending $4.13 on 2 coffees and a cookie, and wandering aimlessly about the countryside with the stroller. I have used up next weeks grocery money, but we have all survived the week (the odd's of which were slim to none at about 5pm yesterday), so I feel the need to remind us all that some times the best frugality is spending.
After all, what is your sanity worth?

PS - Don't get all angsty about me spending the grocery money, for those of you who know me personally and are worrying that we're in dire straits - I sold two hats on Esty this week, so we'll be fine.

Cheap vs. Cheap

My daughter has these awesome plastic velcro bibs that you can just wipe clean. Well, I should say she had these awesome bibs until the dye started rubbing off of them and onto her face. Yes. And they lasted about 13 more seconds in the kitchen until my husband saw the 'MADE IN CHINA' tag on them. Which is not to say I am for or against China, but anyone would have to admit China doesn't have a great track record with safe products for children. So into the garbage they went, but we still needed bibs.
I thought to myself, "Don't I have some vinyl in the basement?" and the answer was a resounding yes! I traced the old bibs, cut the vinyl and stuck velcro on. It took me about 2 minutes, the cost was pennies and my problem was S-O-L-V-E-D. Now, I am not saying they are beautiful enough to give as a gift or sell, but they are a definite success!

Today there was a $7 bag sale at our local BFM, and I went in search of craft supplies. If you aren't familiar with a bag sale, basically you get to cram a bag (and not just a little grocery bag) with as much as you can fit into it for only $7. I looked around for about an hour, and I found a few items - but not enough to fill a bag, and I didn't want to just buy things for the sake of a sale. So guess what? I walked away.

Sometimes you get so excited about saving money on a good deal that you forget that no matter how cheap something is, if you don't need it or if it's not good quality, it's just junk. And today, when I was finding stuff cheaper than I will find it again for some time, I still kept my head. This is an unparalleled success for me, and I just wanted to share it.

Baby Saving

My 14 month old is in the process of learning how to eat like a grown up. We have repeatedly introduced the spoon to her daily eating regimen, but it seems that she thinks of it as something to point with or throw instead of using it to scoop food into her mouth. She has these cute little brightly colored toddler spoons we got dirt cheap (something like 20 for $3.50) in the States. I only wanted one, but buying 20 of these was cheaper than any of the single spoons there. As soon as I started using those spoons, I was on the look out for cute little brightly colored plates, bowls and cups to match; but in the midst of my shopping dilemma I realized that I had plastic containers and lids that would do just as well.
Kid stuff is SO expensive, and what's more, it seems like most people buy everything brand new and matching when they have their first little sprog. And I don't blame them - every magazine, commercial and store you walk into has a 4 piece bedroom set and color co-ordinated crib linens with decor and toys that accent the color scheme. It just seems like the thing to do. And it's fun.
We were lucky enough to get everything we needed second hand and her whole bedroom cost us $81 (linens included). It's not a matching set, but the colors are the same so it doesn't make much of a difference.
Along this line of thought, here are some of the things we are actually doing (that are cost effective and they work) to save money in raising our little monkey:

~We ask for diapers and wipes as gifts (do they really need more toys?)
~We arrange clothes swapping with other moms.
~We thrift shop for clothes, baby items, books and toys
~We use plastic containers and lids instead of buying plastic dishes
~We return gifts we don't need for items we do need
~When she turned one, we switched to whole milk from formula
~When she turned one, we gradually stopped buying baby food and cereal and give her real food
~We do walks, play dates and go to the library for entertainment
~We always bring snacks and drinks when we leave the house
~We mostly only give her water to drink (it's healthy AND you're already paying for it)

To sum it up, we use what we have, play with what we have, wear what we have (even if it's not stunningly stylish and in perfect shape) and don't spend what we don't have.

Frugality's Pea Soup

I am going to share one of my cheapest recipes with you. I made it for lunch today and I don't think I will ever get over how easy it is to prepare. It's simple, but yummy. It's SO inexpensive, and it's got protein in it.

Frugality's Pea Soup

8 cups soup stock (beef, chicken or veggie)
2 cups dried split peas (green or yellow)
2 onions, chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 1/2 tsp Mrs. Dash Original (or alternative no salt seasoning blend)

In a big soup pot (bigger than you think you need, because when you blend it later you'll be grateful for the splash guard) add all the ingredients and bring to a boil on high heat. As soon as it starts boiling, cover it and reduce heat to medium low. Cook it for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. When you are ready to eat, use a braun hand mixer and blend it right in the pot (careful not to burn yourself - it splashes) and you're ready to serve. I have also done this in a slow cooker, or reduced the cooking time by increasing the temperature and stirring more often.

In other news, due to a 'budgeting hickup' I am going to do a Pantry Challenge for the next two weeks. I am sure you've all heard of it (and I know at least 2 of you have done it) - but just in case someone hasn't, you basically try to use up all the stuff in your freezer and your pantry and stick to only buying fresh stuff instead of your usual monster shop. Today I compiled a list of what I've got and this afternoon I am going to make a rough meal plan. I've meant to do this a few times, but never got around to it, so I am actually glad for this opportunity. I'll let you know how it goes :0D

Valentines Day - Frugal Family Edition

I was looking through the paper the other day and there was an ad for a valentines day package for $88. They were actually advertising this price as though it was a good deal. Now just so I don't sound like a V-Day Scrooge, I have nothing against going out and spending a lot of money on a special evening to celebrate. If you have the money and haven't made any plans, SHAME on you. Go and be extravagant and romantic, my friend. But if you are staying home simply because $88 is as far off as $888, then I thought I would give some FREE ideas. Last night I looked on the internet for good stay-at-home-v-day ideas and there were basically a list of CD's you can buy, home decorating projects that would take a week, instructions to eat oysters, an mildly rude inuendos. Here are simple, free ideas that ANYONE can do:

1) Dress up nice just as you would for a real date (this can include the whole family).
2) Dinner and a Movie - make a nice dinner after the kid(s) are in bed and "rent" a movie from the library.
3) Or celebrate love with your whole family at dinner, and later just have a special dessert for mum and dad - here's a link that I like: http://www.canadianliving.com/food/chocolate_fondue_fun.php
4) Write a love letter
5) Put on your most romantic music and slow dance in the living room.
6) Tell each other your love story, from your own perspective.
7) Talk about your dreams for the future with strict "no-reality-check" instructions.
8) Do a picnic style date - pack a meal in a basket, lay down a blanket and pick some fun music.
9) Tell your spouse what you love about them. Be extravagant in your praise and compliments.
10) Go to the Theater at home: Buckets of popcorn, pick an old flick you've had forever and make sure to hold hands (hee-hee).

Now, just because you can't afford to go out, don't make excuses and 'forget' to celebrate. Remember when you were single and you despaired of ever being in love with the right man. When you wondered if anyone would ever love you. When you cried yourself to sleep at night. Remember why your spouse is so important. Remember how they lit up your whole world when you first fell in love.
You can't afford NOT to celebrate. Love and romance need tending, just like plants. Do something small, if it's all you can. Do something simple. But make sure that you put in the effort to appreciate the rich gift you have in your spouse. Valentines Day is a perfect excuse to get started.

The Shocking Truth

Confession: I am so curious about other people's budgets. If I could have a psychic gift of knowing peoples budgets, I would plant myself in the middle of an airport or mall and end up starving to death in rapture. It's not idle curiosity about who makes what - what interests me is how it all gets broken down and spent (or saved). I think it would be SO interesting. Because I don't think that it would necessarily show on the outside. I think we would be surprised how much so'n'so gives away, and which people are savers and which ones are total crap at money.
Money is so much a part of who we are - it's like a subconscious voice that helps us (or hinders) making important decisions and off the cuff judgement calls. It follows us everywhere. And I bet if some of us sat down and laid it out on an enormous table, we'd even surprise ourselves, in both good ways and bad.

For us, because we were able to buy this lovely home, our budget has become a tightly run ship. We are richer than ever before, but poorer, too. Even though I miss shopping and lattes, I am so grateful for this opportunity to learn to be deliberate with our money. I think it is a quality that too many people learn too late and in North America it's becoming less and less common.
Having less to spend has made us more thoughtful about spending. Even on decisions about cleaning products (as you've read), cosmetics and car maintenance. Things most of us would consider necessities and tack on to the monthly budget. Things most of us would even go in debt for (Visa, baby). But when your resources are limited, your choices weigh more (if you have any sense in your head whatsoever - which I didn't up until about 6 months ago).

But instead of feeling hemmed in, I feel liberated.

I know my thoughts are a bit disjointed tonight, but I think what I am trying to say is this.

We are trained almost from infancy to spend money. Advertisements and entertainments are everywhere, in everything. All of them teaching us that spending money is fun and makes you feel good. But I am totally rocked by this truth: YOU DONT HAVE TO SPEND.
I can live without a composting bin, or new windows, or the latest style in shoes. I can live without specialty coffee, rented movies and dinners at restaurants. I can even do without certain groceries. And I am still happy. I still have things to do, places to go and people to see. My husband still loves me in the clothes I've had since he married me. My friends will still visit with me if its not at Starbucks. Supper still tastes good without Gouda or Havarti. And it definitely isn't a bad thing for my bottom if I walk instead of drive once in a while.

So, go on, I dare you: give yourself permission not to spend.

Roughing It - Homemade Laundry Soap 2.0, The Review

I finished up the bucket of powdered laundry soap I made, and only got 15 loads out of it.
It worked just fine, but was less cost effective than the liquid batch, and even though it was so easy to make, I would have to make it 6 times as often, which is not really easier in the long run.
I would use this recipe again if I needed something really quick, but not as a long term solution to my laundry needs.
I will try a new formula this week.
Also, my box of Oxy Clean, along with my fabric softener, is gone, so I will be trying out alternatives to those products.

A tip for the other housewives out there: I swear to you that doing one load of laundry a day will revolutionize your routine. Never do 5 loads of laundry in one day again. Never fold clothing for an hour straight. I start my load first thing after breakfast and fold it early afternoon. I learned this from Fly Lady http://www.flylady.com/ among other fabulous tips on how to stay sane.

Absence

Halloooo!
Just a quick note to let you know that I will not be posting for the next few days.
Try to bear it bravely... :0D

WE MADE IT, GYPSIES!!!

Well, here it is, January 31. We made it. Just barely. A month of Gypsy Challenges, Failures and Triumphs.
Firstly, confessions.
Yesterday I spent 1.50 at the dollar store on kitchen items and today I spent $16 dollars at value village on alternative cookbooks. They were all practical items that we needed, but they were outside of the gypsy parameters. So, all told?
$17 on Birthday Roses
$1.50 at the Dollar Store
$16 on Cookbooks
=
$34.50 worth of bad girl.
But it was a month of reflection, resourcefulness and discipline. And, although this may expose me to judgmental thoughts, when I have compiled a months non-essential spending in the past, the numbers have been STAGGERING! Say it again: STAGGERING!!! So even though there have been failures, I feel triumphant and resplendent in the fluorescent lighting of my basement.

What have I learned?
~Well, I have learned that if you look around your house, you probably have the thing, or something like it, that you are planning on buying or think you so desperately need.
~I have learned that self restraint is a gateway for blessing. I received so many gifts and encouragements, opportunities to earn and opportunities to give, in the midst of our "no-spending".
~I have learned that I really don't have any unmet needs. We are truly a culture that lives solely in the realm of 'wants' - what a tremendous curse and blessing.

Thank you for joining me and keep pinching those pennies, Gypsies!

______________________

UPCOMING!

I am planning a survey, a gift give away and possibly a frugality themed party in the near future (and when you're a mom, the near future means sometime this year) so keep your eyes peeled, lovies, because good things are coming your way!

Roughing It - Scrubby Girls, The Review

Yesterday I made up a batch of four of Karen Logan's cleaners: all purpose cleaning spray, all purpose anti-bacterial spray, a diaper pail deodorizer and an all purpose scrub. I cleaned my kitchen thoroughly with them using a rag and a scrubby. And what do I think?

I LOVE THEM.
THEY SMELL GOOD.
THEY CLEAN GOOD.
THEY WERE CHEAP.

They were very simple formulas and quick to mix up. You can customize your scents using different essential oils (which were the only things that I had to buy - I went for peppermint and tea tree from the health food store) and you put the ingredients and formula on the bottle so they are easy to re-fill.

I would definitely give them 5 stars out of 5 all around.

And the best part? My husband came home and said how good the house smelled!

I really feel I should encourage you to try this - it has been such a rewarding journey so far, and beneficial in so many ways! If you have any practical questions, PLEASE email me and I will be glad to help you find whatever you need.

REMEMBER: Clean House Clean Planet by Karen Logan. It's available at the library, on e-bay and amazon.

Roughing It: DIY Dry Cleaning

I had a question about DIY dry cleaning this week.

I read, read and read some more, and I would have to say that as far as I will go with DIY dry cleaning is the Dryell Kit at the grocery store.

Most of the DIY recipes involve coating your clothing with clay, wheat germ and other bizarre stuff and rubbing it, hitting it or shaking it, sometimes in a bag. I've been working on my anger for sometime now, and I try not to cuss much, so I will say that my response when I read the above information was absolute and utter silence. But if looks could kill, my computer would be dead.

On the other hand, the Dryell Kit is easy to use {but smells like a clean old man, if that makes any sense} and is cheaper than dropping your clothes at the dry cleaner.

Also, I feel I should tell you that you will need to dab clean any spots or stains because the Dryell kit will not take those bad boys out.

Roughing It: Homemade Laundry Soap - For HE Machines?

I've had a question on wether you can use the homemade detergents in High Efficiency Washers. Here is what the site I got the recipe from says:

Can You Safely Use Homemade Laundry Detergents With A High Efficiency Washer (HE Machine)?

• I have no experience with this but there are lots of comments that say it’s fine to use. Be aware that using anything other than what your machine manufacturer recommends may void your warranty.
• Go through the comments in the original post and you will also find several recipes offered and recommended for HE machines. (see below, comment by "Troy")
• Homemade detergent is low sudsing which is important for HE machines.

Troy says:

Hello Everyone,

For the last year, I have been using the following Mix for my Sears Kenmore HE front loader:

3 bars Fels Naptha
3 cups Borax
3 cups Arm and Hammer Washing Soda.

Grate the Fels Naptha, then put in a food processor with a chopping blade and chop until fine.

Pour into a large bowl with the Borax and Washing Soda and stir until combined.

Use 1/4 cup in a HE front loader, use 1/2 cup in a top loader. In my HE front loader, it dissolves perfectly

I use Vinegar as the fabric softener and add Mrs. White’s Liquid Bluing for the Whites load. The whites come out wonderful, the colors are bright and clean., and best of all, it is better for the environment.

I also found this info:

Regarding High Efficiency (HE) Front-Load Washers

You may have been told you need to use “special soap” for your HE front-load washing machine. Let me enlighten you as to why. HE front-load washers require “special soap” for one reason and one reason alone…low suds; because they use less water, they require soap that is less sudsy. The good news is, the homemade detergent in this recipe is VERY low suds. Just make sure you use the recommended amount of detergent. http://diynatural.com/simple-easy-fast-effective-jabs-homemade-laundry-detergent/

PROGNOSIS:

Most of what I have read by impartial observers and those who have been using it for years say a resounding YES to homemade detergent in HE washers, with the odds slightly more in favor of the liquid detergent.

Roughing It - Homemade Laundry Soap 2.0

Well Scrubby Girls, I finished that enormous bucket of home made sludge. It lasted from October 21 to January 21, so I would say that 3 months worth of laundry for a buck or two was well worth it. Granted, it did need a boost now and again for stains and dirty dirties, but the savings makes home made laundry detergent unbeatable.

For whites, I recommend adding a cleaning booster like oxy clean or bleach, though. I found my whites and brights getting dull.

As promised, I am trying a new formula this time, and I have to say that even though the liquid stuff was easy, this was the work of a few minutes. This is what I did:

How to Make Powdered Laundry Soap:

Clean an old yoghurt container.

Finely grate a bar of soap. (I used Ivory)

Mix in a bowl with 1 cup borax, 1 cup washing soda.

Pour into yoghurt container.

Label and put the lid on.

Use 2 tbsp for your average load.

Could it get simpler?

I think this way will be slightly less cost effective, but the simplicity might be enough to lure some of you to try it. I will let you know how long it lasts.

I am going to research less toxic washing boosters and fabric softeners this month and let you know what I find.

And a bit of good news - although most of your commercial laundry supplies are laden with toxins, I was very pleased to find that Spray'n'Wash spot cleaner/stain remover is given a very good rating for low toxins and is on safe lists for use! And I was ALREADY using it!

****

A thought I am having - if you want to try the homemade powdered soap but don't want to make it let me know and I will whip you up some for cheap so you can try it before you buy all of the supplies.

Swiffer Solutions

Just a quickie today Ladies and Gents...

I have a swiffer mop because I have a laminate floor and I bought it when we first got married before I had a thought in my head about responsible living.

But after I ran out of the first box of wet cloths, and then the first box of dry cloths, my stingy side took over. And for a long time I was cranky at this stupid ongoing expense.

But after a brainwave of indiscernible length, I came up with this idea:

I bought a 2 pack of brightly colored microfiber cloths at the dollar store.

At home I measured them, cut them to fit the swiffer (I got 2 or 3 out of each cloth) and sewed the edges.

They are the only orange cloths in the house, so they never get used for anything but the floor, and I wet them with hot water, wring them out and swiffer away.

RATING:

5 STARS out of 5 for cost, effectiveness and environmental friendliness.

Gypsies - COUNTDOWN!

Hello my fellow gypsies.

How is the challenge going?

If you have bunged it up and are disconsolate, be of good cheer. There are still 8 whole days of challenge left and that means 8 whole days of potential victory!

On that note, I have a confession.

Yesterday was my birthday and my husband broke the code, and bought me roses. I cannot fault him.

It was our only flub and I can't even really classify it as that.

:0D

"Natural Cleaning for Your..." Doosh Bag

I have just read most of "Natural Cleaning for Your Home - 95 Pure and Simple Recipes" by Casey Kellar. Should you be reading this, Casey, I suggest that you go find a book and a cup of tea and not read what follows. It will surely hurt your feelings.

Firstly, dear readers, I feel I must give you an excerpt from the dust jacket:

"....Ever get the feeling that life has gotten too complicated? That everything has become too expensive? That you're spending your days running around in a crazy frenzy, creating mountains out of tiny little molehills?

If so, take this simple test. Go to the cabinet where you store your home's cleaning products and take a look inside. If you see rows and rows of cleaning products, each specialized for a slightly different task, and if just looking at all those bottles and containers fills you (and your wallet) with fear and fatigue, then it's time for a change.

Natural cleaning for your home can get you back on track to a fresher, calmer home life..." blah blah blah... save money.... blah blah blah... don't need harsh disinfecting chemicals.... blah BLAH BLAH!!!

I would like to point out a few things before I rant.

1) The words "Pure" and "Natural" in the title.

2) The bolded sentence in the excerpt above that would imply she is about to introduce us to a simpler, cheaper way of cleaning.

3) She actually writes in the dust jacket that we don't need harsh disinfecting chemicals to clean.

Lock and Load, Girls.

I don't know what the words 'natural' and 'pure' [or 'harsh' for that matter] mean to you, but I take offense to the inclusions of: Ammonia, Asprin, Ethyl Alcohol (she recommends VODKA), Gasoline, Liquid Iron, Liquid Whiting, Muriatic Acid, Propylene Glycol and Turpentine. What isn't natural by these standards? I will not even attempt a single recipe from this book on principle. If your title is misleading, what faith should I put in your formulas?

As for saving money? I have no idea what the prices were in 1998, the year this book was published, but I can safely say that in 2010, throwing out my "rows and rows of cleaning products, each specialized for a slightly different task" and using the 9 kitchen ingredients she lists along with the 47 item hard to find 'natural and pure' shopping list would be financially detrimental to several months worth of budgets.

Even some of the formulas, several of which involve mixing ammonia with pretty aggressive ingredients, give me pause. Do I really want to mix this up and put it on a carpet? A leather seat? My DOG?

Verdict: This book is what I would refer to as:

Main Entry:	crap
Part of Speech:	noun
Definition:	nonsense
Synonyms:	baloney, bunk, bunkum, claptrap, drivel, foolishness, hogwash, idiocy, ludicrousness, poppycock, ridiculousness, rigmarole,tomfoolery, twaddle {I think claptrap and twaddle are my fave's}