Always Go Generic!

Cleaning Supplies:

Dollar Store. Dollar General. The Dollar Tree.

And no, I'm not kidding.

Let me let you in on a little secret. That $6 bottle of cleaner by that name brand you love? The same exact ingredients are four bucks cheaper two shelves down. In the generic brand. And by generic I mean the "Name Brand" version of a generic! Seriously! Most mainstream companies have the same product, in the same packaging in a slightly different design for about 30% of the cost. Don't believe me? Next time you're shopping for cleaning supplies, check the back. I've often found a "Product of Scrubbing Bubbles" label on a strangely named cleaning product. Sneaky, sneaky marketers!

Drugs are probably the easiest item to feel safe about buying generic. Kind of strange, right? In fact, Walmart has an 88 cent station! It has anything from hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, bandaids, and medicines. While this may be tempting, this isn't always the greatest deal. I bought some Naproxen Sodium (also marketed as Aleve) for 88 cents! What I failed to notice is that there were only 15 tablets in the bottle. Steal? Not quite.

I soon stumbled upon the bottle for 100 tables for around $4. To be fair it was still the Walmart Equate version. Cheaper isn't always better! Don't be silly like I am sometimes and disregard the black and white on the bottle. I learned my lesson.

Mucinex is Guaifenesen.  

Guaifenesen is Mucinex. 

Guaifenesen can be found at the Dollar Store! 

Why pay $10 for Mucinex when all they're doing is jacking up the price of something, giving it awful cartoon characters, and a cute purple and green box? Not fallin' for that one, Sparky!

Gross, right?

Motrin is Ibuprofen.
Cortef is Hydrocortisone.
See?

If your doctor prescribes anything for you, ask them if there is a generic brand of the same product. Especially prescribed medicines. You'll save much more by getting the generic version and it's the exact same!

See this article here: http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-3480_162-6598113.html

Does the "Brand Name" really taste better?

Here's another interesting article on store brand versus name brand:

"A "Good Morning America" audience member named Ron tried both the store brand and the brand name and chose the store brand."

"Want to do the mashed potato? Instant is the way to go. The great value for Wal-Mart had more potato flavor at half the price," said Walker. Consumer Reports found the Betty Crocker brand a little starchy with a dehydrated potato taste."

Interesting.
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/brand-names-off-brand-wins/story?id=8483239#.UVb7T1t4ZTs

Habits and Traditions

I am a creature of habit! If I find a delicious cereal, meal, or drink, I stay with it. If I know it's good, why change? Ahh...that's what they want you to do! I'm not necessarily a strictly brand loyal shopper, but I do have my favorites.

What if I'm paying too much for the same thing? What if I'm paying too much for something less fulfilling than generic?

We all have our different tastes.

I grew up in a home loaded with generic brands. Typically, the only time we had the name brand was if it was on sale, had a coupon, or both! Many times the store ended up paying my mom for the items she bought! She was by no means one of those crazy coupon ladies, but she set a goal to always save more than she spent. Publix has great deals. She will often leave spending around $50 but saving $65. So awesome.

Has anyone ever heard of ALDI? I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to have an ALDI out here! They are the king of generic brands. Their produce is fantastic and dirt cheap.

I just jumped onto their website and LOL'D.  Like for real lawl'd. My husband thinks I'm crazy. Their website, at the very top, states:

"We don't price match 

because that would mean raising our prices."

I love them. Go to their website to find a store near you. I promise you will love them. They are bright, clean, and cheap! They do carry quite a few name brand items, but not a ton.

http://aldi.us

This is the place I found the name brand cleaning items under a generic brand! I love it.

The have what's called a "Double Guarantee" meaning if your watermelon is gross when you bring it home, you can bring it back for a whole new one and get your money back for the item. Their website states: 

"Quality, taste and satisfaction are always DOUBLE guaranteed at ALDI. 

If for any reason, you are not 100% satisfied with any product, we will gladly replace the product AND refund your money."

That's an awesome business if you ask me!

Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on how to make your own cleaning product, laundry detergent, and more!

Do you have any tips to share with us? We'd love to hear from you!

A Bit of a Rant: Target Misleads

Recently, I posted that Target is now price matching. I was pretty excited!

Until today.

It's a lie.

They wait until you've unloaded your entire cart onto the belt to inform you that you have to go to Customer Service to have them price match your items. Lame.

So you go over to the CS desk and unload your items. The first clerk starts scanning. When she asks the manager for approval for the discount, the manager will go on and on about how it has to be name brand, and because the item don't have a name brand listed in the sale ad, it's useless.

Lesson learned!

I love Walmart. I guess because Walmart is King, Target has to pretend it is just as good and trick you into thinking they're going to price match as well.

Shame, shame Target.

Sexy While Saving!

Friends,

This post will feature how to stay sexy while saving! I know it sounds a little strange, but hear me out!

I stumbled upon this tip on Pinterest that will help you skin become beautiful. No, I'm not about to sell you something. In fact, I'll tell you that you already have what is needed!

Now for the gross part: black heads. We all have them and we all hate them. I don't seem to have any trouble keeping my face clear of blemishes, but blackheads are my worst enemy. And to be more specific, the ones on my nose! Yuck!

I have a solution for you. The recipe calls for: AN OLD TOOTHBRUSH! Right? Who knew?

I tested this out the other night and I was shocked at the result! I used hydrogen peroxide as the cleaner and an old toothbrush that was still fairly firm. I used a medium brush and it was a little rough, so I would recommend a soft toothbrush, especially for your first time.

Skin: Blackheads

1.  Make sure the toothbrush is free of all debris, old tooth paste, etc. (Gross). Or, you could just use a new one! I used a medium bristle, but would probably prefer soft for next time.
2.  Soak the brush in any sort of face cleaner or hydrogen peroxide/alcohol. Try to avoid any type of hard soaps as this can actually clog your pores.
3. Test on a small area of your face before exfoliating your nose/forehead/chin. Give 24 hours for your skin to react.
4.  If no irritation appears, you're good to go!
5.  A gentle face wash is probably okay to use just after doing this, but I didn't want to stress out my skin too much, so I washed my nose the next day.
6.  Voila! There you have it. Clear, blackhead free skin!

How is this saving, you ask? Now you don't have to buy any expensive face wash that claims it clears blackheads! :)

Hair

Friends, I have used a ton different shampoos. Many of them make my hair feel frizzy, heavy, waxy, or just plain dull. I've made my rounds and always seem to come back to the same shampoo: Suave Daily Clarifying. 

The family size bottle (22.5 ounces) is a WHOPPING $2 at Walmart or Walgreens. 

This stuff is magical! Maybe it's just my hair, but I have always made my way back to Suave.

I've also tried Suave's Humectant line and it is very good, as well. I love the Rosemary+Mint kind especially! So delicious.

This line is just a little more expensive, but not by much. And by more expensive, I mean like $2.50-$3.00 expensive. For the family size! Can't beat that.

As for conditioner, I'm a little more picky. I'm a mix and match hair washer. Right now I am rocking Paul Mitchell's  Lemon Sage. Not exactly $2 a bottle, but definitely worth the results! And it lasts forever.

Makeup

Okay, this is something I don't change often! I've figured out that when I find what I like, I don't venture out much. Maybe a bad thing, but maybe a good thing.

I absolutely LOVE Almay's eye color line. I am a hazel/brown, so I love using this: 

Almay Intense i-Color Eye Shadow

They have all sorts of colors for each eye color. I honestly have used this for years and haven't regretted it. They are very inexpensive and it is definitely quality stuff. But I don't know...maybe I'm just not used to paying $80 for face powder. ;)

Mascara! I love mascara. My mother and two sisters and I ALL wear the same mascara. I'm telling you...once you go Voluminous, you never go back! It lasts forever. It gives me super full, non flaky lashes, and it is (yes, you guessed it!) inexpensive! My favorite! Try it! Look for ads in the newspaper! Most of the time they have $1 off or even $2 off most products. This bad boy is a whopping $5.84 at Walmart. Steal? Oh, yes!

Walgreens also has a lot of good deals on makeup. Buy 1 get 1 50% off, BOGO Free, etc. They are typically more expensive than Walmart on regular prices, but their sales can't be beat!

I'm fairly minimal on my makeup, so this just about covers what I wear...haha. Maybe a little blush here and there, but that's it! 

Romance

Burlington Coat Factory has the cutest and most inexpensive lingerie! I've gotten a few things there for bachelorette parties, etc... ;)

What you can get at Victoria's secret for $50 is only $8 or $10! My kind of shopping if you ask me.

Ross/TJ Maxx also have sweet deals!

Body

I absolutely LOVE a good bodywash. Olay has this sweet smelling bodywash. Mmm...
$4.98 at Walmart. Even cheaper on Amazon!

I was at Target and came across this cute line: Elf! You've probably heard of it. Honestly, the prices are so wonderful, it's scary. To be honest, I haven't tried it yet, but I've heard great things about it! To my defense, I don't need any new makeup just yet :) 

Read some helpful reviews here! http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com/archive/elf-cosmetics/

There you have it! I hope this helps you out! :)

Great Idea for Kids!

Savin' for Baby!

I know what you're thinking, and no I am not pregnant. No plans to have babes for awhile! Hey, I just got married like 3 months ago.

But my philosophy is that it's never too early to start planning! Or more specifically, budgeting!

I came across this cute little "FYI" on Pinterest that gauges how much a baby will cost... Yikes!

Sorry it's so huge...but it's awesome!

I liked that a lot! I hope it helps you out :)

WebMD also has a great article that I absolutely love! Check it out here: 

http://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/baby-gear-guide-9/baby-budget

They break down tips for baby anywhere from daycare to diapers! Some of my favorite points:
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Ask about samples and coupons. Many manufacturers give hospitals samples, coupons, and freebies for new parents. Before you come home, ask the nurses or hospital staff if they have any available.

Don't buy everything at once. Think about your immediate needs for your newborn, and purchase just what your baby will need in the first few months. For example, when your baby first comes home, he or she can sleep in a cradle or bassinet in your room. This means you can hold off on that crib purchase until your little one gets a little bigger. You also won't need a high chair right away. Just be sure you have your car seat purchased and installed before you go to the hospital.

Buy diapers in bulk. Your cost per diaper is cheaper when you buy in bulk.  And you'll go through them so quickly the first year that buying in bulk will also save you time and gas by not having to run to the store so often to replenish them.

Breast is best for your budget. Nurse your baby if you are able. Not only is it healthy for you and your baby, it will save you money on the cost of formula.

Make your own baby food. Get a small food processor and make your own baby food from fresh fruits and veggies. It's a lot cheaper than most baby food found in the store. Just be sure to freeze any leftovers so they don't spoil.

Put your money where it matters. Spend your money on safety items like car seats and cribs. Manufacturers constantly update these items with the latest safety features, so it's best to buy new.

Clip out, click on coupons. Comb through your local paper and flyers for coupons on baby supplies. You can also sign up online for coupons from your favorite manufacturers, and while you're at it, look at online social sites just for moms. Many of them offer special deals on baby purchases that can save you money.

Think "something borrowed." Ask friends and family with older children if they have anything they aren't using. Most will be more than happy to pass on baby clothes and other gear. You can also borrow things like a changing table (you'll want to buy a new pad for it), a highchair or booster seat, baby slings or backpacks, and a dresser.

Check yard sales and secondhand stores. Often you can find clothes that have been barely used and look almost new. This can be a good way to find special event clothes that your child may only wear once.

Hold off buying shoes. Yes, those tiny sneakers are cuter than words, but your little one really doesn't need shoes until he or she learns how to walk. Footies or socks work fine to keep your infant's feet warm.

Buy store brand and generic. Your little one won't know any different, and it can save you a lot of money on baby supplies and formula. Baby formula is regulated by the FDA, so you can be sure that the store-brand formula has the same quality as a brand name. Formulas, though, do not all have the same mineral content. So ask your pediatrician for recommendations.

Take advantage of tax deductions. 20% to 35% of child care expenses can be deducted depending on your income. Some states offer additional benefits, so check with your tax adviser.

Tax-free is free money. Some employers offer a dependent-care account where you contribute an annual amount in pretax dollars to be used for qualifying dependent care expenses. Check with your employer to see if they offer such a program.

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My inspiration for this post came from a conversation with my husband about when a good time to have our first child would be. If it were up to me, it would be soon! But logic takes over and I know we're not ready mentally or financially yet. 

Being married just shy of 3 months is a bit soon for our liking. Although some may not agree, we've decided to get used to being married and have us time before we add a little babe into the mix!

Here's another cute blog that gives good tips for babies and life in general! 

http://www.saveforbaby.com/

And one more cool website!

 pregnant.thebump.com

I hope this gives you a better idea about how to prepare for the babe and make life a little easier. Good luck!

And just a ray of cuteness to brighten your day!

*Credit eyeshotphotos.com*

Budgeting!

We all try to budget, for about 3 minutes, and then we give up. There are check books that allow you to track all purchases. But who ever used that? Okay, maybe I did...once.

With credit and debit cards handling most purchases (at least in this house), sometimes it's hard to keep track!

My husband is so creative and designed an Excel doc to budget our every day spending. And by every day, I mean EVERY DAY! He has each day for the next three months lined up on a document. He created all of the calculations that allow us to deduct expenses and add our combined revenue! He's so smart :)

Here is a GREAT website that will give you the link to a pre-made budgeting spreadsheet!

Website: http://www.readyforzero.com/resources/budgeting-tips/

Pre-made Excel Doc: here!

I love people.

So, in a nutshell, we know where every penny is...literally!

I know this sounds silly, but my best budgeting advice is JUST DON'T SPEND IT! I know, I know...but honestly, I have had the best time being able to save money by refraining from silly spending.

Here's where I get caught:

• Buying more at the grocery store than I planned. Seriously happens almost every time!
• Check out this interesting story on the psychology of shopping! Grocery Store Psychology: How Food Stores Induce to You Spend More Than You Intended

• Boredom induced trips to Target and Ross!

GUILTY! But who isn't?

• Wanting to spoil my husband! I know it sounds weird, but I have a shoe addiction. Now that I have someone else to spend money on, I am constantly seeking out new shoes for him. Size 13 is hard to come by! My husband is so humble and thinks he doesn't need shoes. And to be honest, he doesn't! I think this is my excuse for justifying my shoe addiction. Okay, addiction is a strong word for it. Just don't ask my husband! ;)

• Parties! I love to throw parties at any given chance. Small dinner groups, a double date, etc. Recently, I threw an Open House with a Valentine's Day theme. It was awesome! But to be honest, I spent way too much on candy! I wanted to use some for decoration and some for consumption, but I think I got a little too excited in the hot pink and sweets aisle! Luckily, my husband loves those gross conversation hearts, so those won't go to waste! ;)

• Did I mention boredom? This is probably my worst enemy when it comes to shopping! If I have a few hours to kill I will wander around the grocery store and pick up Little Debbies, ice cream, frozen pizzas (for my husband? Yeah...right...) Once time I got back form a friend's house really late and decided to make a spontaneous trip to the grocery store at 4 am while STARVING. Half asleep and ravenous are terrible combinations. I bought pizza rolls, ice cream, Grasshopper cookies, etc. I remember spending $60 without even realizing...or caring at that point! Darn you 24-7 grocery stores...

There you have it folks! Avoid the bad and stick to the good: No spending!

Savin' Bacon!

Friends!

This post will feature coupons, savings tips, bank accounts, and more!

The 52 Week Money Challenge

Recently, my husband stumbled across this really neat website that gave suggestions on how to save money fast! It's so simple, yet so creative. Put away a dollar per week of the year. For example, for week 1, put $1 in your savings account. For week 2, put $2 in your account. My husband and I decided to double our savings and do $2, $4, $6, $8, etc. It is so simple! He does it every week and I do it once a month. I know I'll probably be kicking myself towards the end of the year, but I can always convert back to once a week!

Here's a grid to give you an idea! If we both double our savings, just think how much that would be! So far we've been very diligent in our saving, so we'll keep you posted!

*Author unknown

Coupons!

Seriously, friends, coupons are your best friend. It is SO worth the savings! Be careful, though, and don't feel like you HAVE to buy it because you have a coupon. Believe me...I've been there. Treat yourself to a few things every now and then, but don't feel too pressured to buy it "just because"!

Walmart will double all coupons on Tuesdays! (Check your local area restrictions). That $.75 you'd save on you Special K Red Berries? Wait til Tuesday! Ingenious.

I went to Walmart one day and refused to buy the product if it didn't have a coupon! Now, obviously this isn't every time I got to the store, but it definitely determines what I buy and where I will go. Buying the Sunday paper is definitely worth the $1.50 each week. AND you get to read the Comics!

Price Matching!

I know I mentioned this in my previous post, but I'm going to do it again! Honestly, price matching is so easy and logical. Grab up any and all ads and circle all of the items in a red marker. Take it to Walmart and show them the ad. Be sure to verify the dates of the ad. They check.

Also, I've just discovered that Target will do the same! I don't normally shop there, but with this new price matching "matching" they're doing, it might be worth it.

My husband and I received buckets of gift cards to Target, so I definitely know the pricing! Check out Target coupons at http://coupons.target.com/ :)

Walmart: http://coupons.walmart.com/

Also, here's a great website for deals all over the place! http://savvyshopperdeals.com/

Wholesale!

Costco. WinCo. Sam's Club. 

I got a Costco membership years ago even as a poor, single, college student. It was so worth it! Toilet paper, paper towels, etc. were always expensive every week. With Costco, all of my roommate and I  could chip in $3 every few months to get a 36 pack of TP! Winning.

WinCo is awesome because it doesn't require a membership! My husband and I love them for their produce and dry goods. They have HUGE vats of flour, grains, cereals, dog foods, and more! You name it, it's there! And it is dirt cheap.

WinCo Coupons: http://www.wincofoods.com/extra-savings/coupons/

Research the closest wholesaler nearby. Most of them require a membership fee, but I definitely think it's worth it!

Thrifting!

Girls, men, children all around! The easiest way to recycle is to thrift! I grew up in a large family that was a strong advocate for thrifting. My mom was complimented left and right that she had some of the best dressed kids in the entire school. Ironically, 90% of all clothing came from the thrift stores around town. Yay!

Many thrift stores will give you a discount after donation. We get a 20% off coupon every time we donate at least grocery size bag of items! What a deal.

My husband and I are thrifting geeks. The other day, a sweet worker at Savers said "I should know you by first name by now!" Embarrassing, maybe, but we don't care! The biggest thing we purchase is BOARD GAMES! Honestly, our greatest collection of sweet games came from Savers. Brand new games that run for $60 and $80 on Amazon!

Monopoly: Here and Now is running from $80 to $129.99 +10 shipping! 

Friends Ultimate Trivia Game in a Tin:  $101!

Our collection also includes Connect Four that we paid a whole whopping $1.99 for!

All of these games are either still in their shrink wrap or at least have all of their pieces. We count before purchasing.

We have all intentions of reselling these games, but we'll see!

I hope this has helped you at least a little bit!

Let us know if you have any tips or tricks! Or any requests for posts!

Love,

Penny