Christmas is not only overly expensive but can be totally stressful too. In fact the issues usually go hand in hand. Really it’s time to end this stressful holiday nonsense and get back to holiday celebrations that actually matter and that are actually fun, don’t you think? Here are some ideas to cut your budget and your stress level this Christmas…

Stay put: Holiday travel is more expensive than traveling at other times of the year and bonus, it’s hyper stressful with long lines, crowds, and layovers due to nasty winter weather. Stay put. Call your family on the holidays to …read more

I have read that the average family spends about $40-50 on Halloween. Of course, this is an average and it varies upon where you live and how many children you have. I’m sure there are some people that spend way more than this amount.
It doesn’t take long for Halloween expenses to add up. Here are some ways to save.

4)  Shop yard sales.  When I moved last year, I had an entire table of holiday decorations.  There were Christmas ornaments and decorations and Halloween costumes.  These unused items frequently turn up at yard sales.
5)  Shop after-season clearance sales.  Of course, it is …read more

For many, money is tight this year.  That doesn’t mean that you can’t have a great Valentine’s Day.  Dismiss your expectations about what Valentine’s Day should be.  This is a day to make your mate feel special and to spend time one another. 
1)  Make a romantic dinner at home.  I don’t know about you, but in the past few years, I have given up on going out on Valentine’s Day.  It is not fun to go to your favorite restaurant and wait an hour or more to be seated.  It’s not romantic at all!  Instead, make a special meal at …read more

Let me let you in on a little secret … STAY HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.  We didn’t and I am still exhausted.  So I thought I would share my holiday with you so you can see how staying home is an option worth considering.
I would like to say, however, that we really enjoyed seeing family.  We only get to go home once a year but this year seemed especially hectic for some reason.
Dec 23rd – I worked a 10 hour shift and packed some
Dec 24th – I worked an 8 hour shift and packed some
Dec 25th – We flew to …read more

Thanks to Jennifer at Tree Hugging Family for putting together this terrific round-up!
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I wanted to get everyone into the winter holiday spirit before kicking off December. However, I didn’t just want to post classic Tree Hugging posts. That said, with a little help from the rest of the channel, I rounded up a huge list of killer holiday (and eco-friendly) posts.
Sit back, browse, read, and linger in the holiday bliss!

Remember, no matter the treat or recipe, you can always green it up by exchanging organic and natural ingredients for conventional.
50 Cute and Tasty Christmas Cookie Ideas
Cherry Dot Cookies
Organic Holiday Cookies!
Hey …read more

I grew up in a military town and no, my dad wasn’t military.  Go figure.  You see, my mom’s dad and my dad’s stepdad were both in the military and my mom and dad met while their families were there. 
Growing up in a military town brings in me a special patriotism.  Also, being married to a fella that served in the Marines kind of helps with that too. 
My uncles, my hubby, and my late grandfathers all served their country.  I feel quite proud of them and the sacrifices they made.
Well, it’s late and I’m starting to ramble.  I just …read more

My little Alligator was born on July 4th.  She’s quite a firecracker.  Happy Birthday, Sweetie!

Just a few days old.

Gee, who do you think she looks like?

My brother and sister-in-law thought she needed a bigger head.  Here she is on her new Barbie throne.
Happy Birthday!!!!!
images from Karen

While the writers of the b5media Lifestyles Channel may be scattered about globally, one thing we all have in common is a celebration of fireworks.  I hope you’ll enjoy our blast from the past.
Chloe of Tangled Thread shares a few festive fireworks and needlework patterns.
Kerri and Cory at Marriage Actually talk about why having a shared past is one of the best parts about being married.
Heather at A Creative Journal shares her first memory of firecrackers with a view from Australia.
Christine at Mad Cropper remembers Guy Fawkes Day, a day celebrated in New Zealand with lots of fireworks. Find out …read more

Are you ready for Christmas? We are pleased to announce the First Annual b5media Lifestyles Channel Holiday Blogging Awards.
Judges from around the blogosphere will judge the best entries for the following categories:
Best Holiday decoration of a Blog – Any blog or blogger who has decorated their blog for the holidays either entirely or in an subtle way. Prize: $20 USD via Paypal and links from channel blogs.
Best post about Christmas on a Blog – The best posting about Christmas or holiday activities on a blog. It can be religious or non-religious, but should celebrate the spirit of the season. Prize: …read more

Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday.  I know there will be lots of frugal ideas on how to give and get great Mother’s Day presents.  Here is a novel idea.  If you can get away with it, buy your own and let your husband off the hook this year.  Some DH’s won’t like the idea but you will.  You will spend exactly what you want to and get exactly what you want to.  I don’t know about you, but I occasionally don’t mind getting my own gift since it means I get what I want and I don’t have …read more