Celebrating Valentine’s Day on a Budget

Valentine's Day is an expensive day, but you can still celebrate without going over your  budget.Knowing that Valentine's Day is around the corner now is the time to think ahead and work out a plan for the special day. You can set aside money now for Valentine's Day so when the day comes, you have the money you need to spend. Being organized and knowing what the plan is will stop you from over spending. Here are some reminders of things that are money "wasters" and suggestions to help you stay within your budget on Valentine's Day. Forget buying flowers especially roses as the prices are marked up for this special occasion. Another option would be to buy a potted plant. Potted flowers may not seem romantic, but they last longer and they can be re-planted into a garden. A heart-shaped box filled with chocolate is another expensive item. Are the chocolates more exquisite and more delicious in a heart-shaped box? You can decorate a regular box of chocolates with ribbon and … [Read more...]





Shout: Color Catcher with Oxi {Review and Giveaway}

I have to be honest with you, I was quite skeptical about this product. It was hard for me to believe that it could "catch" anything. I am, however, thrilled to let you know that Shout® Color Catcher with Oxi actually works! I even tested it on my very much loved Christmas table clothe and napkins. I used a combination of reds and greens this year. Normally, I would wash them separate--not this time. I went out on a limb and washed them together WITH Shout® Color Catcher with Oxi--and it worked! When I went to put the table clothe and napkins in the dryer, they were all perfect and fabulous. The color catcher was very red though! So, it must have caught all the horrid dye from the napkins that would have ruined my green table clothe! I was THRILLED and have been using it ever since!Seriously, ladies, it is perfect for those busy days where you really do not have time to do twenty load of laundry. You know those days where you just need a few clean pairs of socks and matching … [Read more...]





20 Tips To Burglar Proof Your Home

If your home has ever been burglarized, you know that awful feeling you get in the pit of your stomach. You feel violated that someone has come into your home and gone through your personal space. Here are 20 tips on safe proofing your home from burglars 1. Flyers and Junk Mail If you're not going to be home for a long period of time, have someone pick up your junk mail such as flyers from your doorstep. You can also stop newspaper delivery until you're back home.2. Hiding Extra Key Outside We've all heard of this one, but don't hide an extra key to your house under a door mat. Leave a key with a trusted neighbor, friend or family member.3. Use Timers Use indoor timers for your lights to turn on and turn off at the set times. Put a couple in the bedrooms so your home looks normal and lived in.4. House Sitter Have a house sitter look after your home if you're away on vacation or have someone drop by your home each day to open and close the blinds and make sure … [Read more...]