I thought I would let you know some of my struggles in the thrifty life so that you, too, can know that you can live truly thrifty with company.
FACT:  I am 5′1″ tall and basically have to hem all of my pants.  My MIL and best friend usually help me with my sewing needs as I do not have a sewing machine.
FACT: I received 3 pairs of pants for Christmas since I only have 1 pair of jeans that fit and 1 pair of jogging pants that, ironically, are too short.  they have to be hemmed.
FACT: My usual routes of …read more

If you are on the internet and reading Thrifty Mommy, then chances are pretty good that you have some knowledge of the internet and computers. Want to know more and still stay within your budget? How about the Kim Komando Show?
I am willing to admit that I married a computer genius because all I seem to be able to do is turn mine on some days and blue screen it. But the Kim Komando Show is a great radio show and website that teaches you all about keeping your kids safe on the internet and it gives …read more

Sometimes as thrifty parents, we try really hard to do what is right. Last month, we got a comment on our post about how much we spent on Christmas. One reader commented that she “couldn’t do it!” I told her that a thrifty life style comes with practice. Not all of us are born to that lifestyle like Karen, HAHA! I have to work on it every day. But it is so refreshing to come home and know that I saved money today just by shopping smart.

This post is for my mom.  She wanted me to write one about the many uses of vinegar. 
It definitely pays to have some vinegar around the house.  I need to go to the store to stock up on vinegar and baking soda.  I’ve had a mustard stain that won’t come out of my daughter’s clothes.  I think I need to try some vinegar or baking soda.  Both seem to be amazing, inexpensive, and safe products.  Definitely a thrifty choice!    
1.  Add 1/4 cup vinegar to laundry, along with the usual soap, to brighten colors and make whites sparkle.  This will also act …read more

Reuse your Christmas tree – This has ideas for ways to use your tree after you’re done with it.
Mortgage Refinancing – Lenders are being bombarded right now.  People are eager to refinance because of the lowest interest rates we’ve had in a year.
Thrifty Dating – Ideas for romance that don’t take much money.  You could send this link to your hubby.  LOL

Today I was reading Angel’s blog, 1 Smart Mom.  She has some thrifty tips for making your home smell good, without giving you a headache.
 
1.  To get rid of bad smells, pour vinegar in a bowl and let it sit overnight.
2.  Put natural spices in a pot and boil them on the stove.
3.  If you have clothes to hang dry, hang them in the room that you want to smell nice.  (The room will smell like your detergent or softener.)
4.  Place laundry detergent in the bottom of your tub overnight.  The bathroom smells good and the tub sparkles.
I will add …read more

Recently, we at b5 have been throwing around some exercise tips.  I just thought I would let you know a thrifty way to exercise.  PLAY!
My little girl just found the playground over the last few months.  Before that, she wasn’t coordinated enough to walk and play at the same time.  She’s getting so big.  But let’s talk about exercise.  I was playing with her on the playground at our church and was having a ball!  The next day, I felt muscles that I didn’t know existed any more.
So playing with your kids is the cheapest and most fun way to …read more

During my internet surfing today I noticed there are some Top 25 lists out there.  I decided to pick my brain and give you a list of 25 ways to save money.  Here goes . . .  
 
1.  Shop end of season clearance for next year’s clothes.  Why pay $35 for a nice outfit when you can get it for $6?
2.  Shop yard sales and consignment stores.  Buy in the next size

I love gleaning from other minds about how to be more frugal. The best minds to pick are older ones. My grandmother lived through the depression and can tell some whopping stories about working for $100 a month and making ends meet. It’s the older generation that can keep us “spoiled kids” from forgetting the lessons in life.
So when I ran across a link from Frugal for Life on the 46 things I wish my mother had taught me about money from Lisa Laprad, I was intrigued. I loved the list! She has some great …read more

I dread the stage in my 16 month old’s life when she finds play dough. I just imagine play dough everywhere. Not to mention the cost of replacing the play dough. Well, true to thrifty form, and thanks to Weary Parent, there is a Kool recipe for play dough. No pun intended.