I couldn’t believe how high gas prices went right after Hurricane Ike. So I took this picture on Saturday. On Sunday, prices stayed put. On Monday, prices went back down to $3.99/gal. Today I paid $3.89/gal. I never thought I would be happy to pay $3.89/gal. It is so sad!

Post from: Thrifty Mommy

Yesterday, when I went to work, the price for a gallon of gas was $3.49.  When I got off 14 hours later , gas was $5.39 per gallon.  Can anyone say gas gouge!!!!!!!!!

What about you?  Did you see a raking of gas prices?

Post from: Thrifty Mommy

A recent trip to Wal-Mart left me questioning what is going on around here. Murphy Express is selling gas for thirty cents less per gallon than the other gas stations. Thirty cents!!!! Unbelievable! Yes, it is definitely worth driving the few extra miles for the savings.

Needless to say, the competition has been great and other gas stations are lowering their prices as well. A little competition is always good for the pocketbook.

What do you think about all this?

images by Karen

Post from: Thrifty Mommy

As a stay-at-home mom of three boys ages three and under, it is VITAL that I get some time to myself. It helps me establish my identity outside of being a wife and mom and it makes me a better spouse and parent.

In the early months of my new stay-at-home mom status, my “Me-time” was spent bargain hunting and garage sale shopping in town by myself. (In case you haven’t noticed, I’m a nerd who enjoys getting good deals!)

But now going to town is an $8 expenditure. My days of “bumming around town” are now much more limited. I am combining trips more than ever, and that often means I have to do my bargain hunting with my entire family in tow.

The situation has forced me to redefine how I spend “Me-time.”

My Me-time is more often spent around my neighborhood now.

Sometimes my hubby lets me carve out a moment for me to scrapbook or do some card making while he watches the kids. I take walks by myself to clear my head. I spend time reading out on my deck. I write on my blog. I visit my parents or sometimes we go to town together (they’re good people that way!). I spend time doing yard work. I work on projects around the house (like organizing things or cleaning). I plan future bargain hunting trips and hunt for deals online.

In a way, I’m kind of glad that gas prices are up because it is challenging me to be more creative in all areas of my life. I’m rediscovering old hobbies and enjoying being at home more than I ever have before.

Most importantly, I’ve learned that “Me-time” doesn’t have to mean I’m in a store.

Christina is a stay-at-home of 3 boys, ages 3 and under.  You can find her at Northern Cheapskate writing about living on less and making it work with one income.

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If you’d like, you can view the results of the last poll about reusable grocery bags.

Post from: Thrifty Mommy