A Way to Save (Recycle)

This last month our city just began recycling. At first I seemed a little frustrated trying to figure out what goes in what bin, now I am realizing I do not have to buy trashbags for anything that is recycled. My trashcan this week only had one bag in it. Typically it is full!!! So had I known that recycling saves not only the resources on our planet and now our pocketbook, I might have gotten on board a little sooner. Going green is important, I was just lazy in taking all these products to a local recycling center. Maybe this is a way you can save too. Also I know certain locations pay you to take pop cans, etc. So check around your local area and see how much money you can SAVE!

My next adventure is going to be checking out a compound bin for all our food. I have also heard this is great. I will let you know what I find out this spring, when I do more research for our garden. Stay tuned for how to save by planting your own garden!

Do you love going out to eat?

So many Americans love going out to eat. I have heard by lots of viewers that they are not willing to sacrifice going out to eat. Many due to exhaustion of working a full days work. Here are some tips on keeping your out to eat expenses down.
1. Look at your local restaurants and see what day they offer for the kids to eat free. Make a list you can keep in your purse for those exhausted days.
2. Keep the local flyer's on coupons on restaurants. Many times there are good deals for the family. Keep a little folder and put it in the car you frequently use.
3. If your not tired of fast food restaurants, like McDonald's, etc. Use the dollar menu! A family of 4 can eat for about $8.
4. Drink water when out to eat... This is the most expensive item on most restaurant menus. On average it only cost the restaurant 28 cents for the cup and 3 cents for the soda. So when you pay $1.99 for a drink. Your giving them a huge profit. A drink at a restaurant cost more than a 2 liter at Wal-mart.
5. Use www.restaurants.com to get a gift card cheaper for a restaurant
6. Keep a cash system on how much you are going to spend in a week or month on restaurants. When your out of money, thats its... Don't spend anymore!
7. If you love to eat really expensive ask for a gift cards to that restaurant for Christmas or birthdays. This will help off set the cost to you.
8. Get on the restaurants email list. Many times they send coupons over email (Zios is very good at this)
9. Plan ahead if you know you go out to eat on Sundays because of church and the time crunch. Make a crock pot meal Saturday that you can just plug in before you leave for church. Learn your schedule!
10. Look for free items! For veterans day Applebees, Golden Corral, Hy-vee offer free meals. Also for firefighters on firefighters day Baskin Robbins offer free ice cream to all.
11. See if the company you work for offers deals for using corporate savings. For example Sprint has a website all employees can use for deals. Are bank also does this.
12. Eat lunch instead of supper. Huge savings! Some times the same meal is $2 more for supper than at lunch.
13. Share meals with your spouse. Get an appetizer and one meal. This is usually filling enough to get you home!
14. Keep a goodie bag in your car if you travel a lot or have sports events... This will allow you to make it home to make a meal if you prefer to eat at home.
15. If your not to hungry, and have kids with you at a nice restaurant order a kids meal. This is usually cheaper. Check the prices though!

Childrens Orchard Deal December 5th

On December 5th Childrens Orchard is having a great deal on kids clothing! $5 for just one bag.... Fill it how you like... My husband and I love when stores do this... It allows for you to stock up on many items for a great price... Expect lines and crazyness, but have fun!!!

Louisburg Cider Mill

What a great field trip for the kids during the Fall. Enjoy the aromas of freshly made apple cider. This is one of my favorite spots to take my kids.

October 2009 Ciderferst & Craft Fair
September 26th & 27th and October 3rd & 4th
Huge Pumpkin Patch - Corn Maze - Craft Fair
Fresh Cider Making - Cider Donuts - Live Music
Food - Picnic Area - Kids Activity Area
Hay Castle- Hayrides

http://www.louisburgcidermill.com/events_calendar/october/

Aquafest Olathe

Sept. 19th @ Cedar Lake Park This event is free!!! 11A.M. to 2p.m.

More info:http://www.olatheks.org/parksrec/programs/trails/thingstodo/aquafest

Spinach festival Lenexa $1.00

The fee is 1.00 however they have events for the whole family.

Saturday, September 12, 2009Time 9 am - 5 pmSar-Ko-Par-Trails ParkFee $1.00, under 13 free

Reasons to clean

Cleaning for one is very therapeutic! It can help you feel better. I know when I am having a bad day if I look at my kitchen or bathroom and its messy. I feel completely awful! However if I go in an tactile the task of cleaning it, I feel wonderful!!!

While cleaning you can organize you fridge... This is a great way to save money. Have a shelf designed just for left overs, this way when someone is hungry they know where to look. I know while cleaning out your fridge you realize "wow I forgot about this leftover and have to throw it away." On average in an American household we throw away $70 worth of leftovers a month! Take $70 multiply by 12 months you get that's right $840 a year, you have just thrown down the sink (literally).

Another way cleaning is therapeutic. You find things that you no longer, need, use or want. SELL, SELL, SELL! Garage sales to 2nd hand stores, to craigslist, there are many ways to sell your items! Have a corner in your garage or storage room just for this... As you find items throughout the week, put them their and sell even just once a month... You will be surprised what you can make at even a garage sale. I had one a few months ago and made over $800. Hey, that's an extra payment on something!

Get creative, organize your toy room or kids bedrooms, you will find tons of toys they no longer need. Sell that unused treadmill that you haven't used in years. No the dog in your house doesn't use it when your gone... Cleaning allows for great times to reflect on your life. It can help you appreciate the things you have... It shows God you appreciate them as well. These are ultimately his things, and what and how you treat them is ultimately up to you. Do you not want to honor the blessings God has given you?

You will also find extra space that you need for something else that is out of place. Get rid of the 2nd coffee pot that your neighbor gave you. Really is that a sentimental item! Organize pictures, you wouldn't believe just by going through them and putting them in albums saves space! Instead of buying the next house up the road who has another bedroom for your storage, save money and clean out the rooms you have.

How do people decide when and how many children are enough?

This is a struggle my husband and I are going through. We have 2 perfectly wonderful great children. After have the foster kids in our home, we are not even sure if we want more children due to so many reasons. Here are some that we have come up with:

• Added Stress
• More mouths to feed
• The expense alone is much more
• Jealousy of time between children
• Harder to get places or do anything
• More householdchores
• Pretty much more of everything
• Sibling Fighting
• Less time with each child

We have always desired a large family, but yet we have found one struggle after another. From having a hard time getting pregant, to the miscarriage, to the pre-term labor. Now we have a really hard case which was supposed to be an adoption case. However is a reintergration case. Wow, after writing all of this, no wonder my heart aches. I had always dreamed of being a large christian family full of love and compassion. Maybe I wasn't supposed to feel this way. Maybe this my own desire and not God's. How do I know? I know that I hate living month to month wondering am I pregant. I hate the hoping and then finding out no, again!!! So maybe its time for a new chapter in my life. Almost everyone around us is saying you have 2 beautiful children one boy and one girl what else could you want. Well maybe I should feel this way. The hard part is I am starting to fall in line with this thinking. My husband is so burnt out from this case he has pretty much given up on all his dreams in regards to having more children. Thats what saddens my heart the most. Hearing him, after all he was the one that kept saying he wanted like 10 kids. Now he is saying enough is enough.

The thing that looks the most appealing to stopping would be we would never have to move. We probably will not outgrow this home. We could get rid of all the baby things I have been holding on to. We possibly could afford college for the two of them. Get debt free a whole lot sooner. Its hard because almost all of this is materialist. I know materials do not bring happiness. But the stress of being wall to wall furniture and living on top of each other. And all the FIGHTING drives me crazy. So where do we go from here. I do not know. I feel like I am sitting on a fence waiting for the wind to push me one direction. I do not want to make a rash decision, yet I do not want to forget this crazyness and end up in the same position again. I really don't know if I could manage having a large family. Maybe that is why all of this is happening. Maybe I would go crazy or something.... Who knows.... I just wish I knew where to go from here.

Well we got the news this is the last week.

We have heard officially that kiddos will be moving this next week sometime. Which is sorta difficult yet I am excited to see what is next for my family... I know homeschooling will be starting soon! I am anxiously excited. I am a little nervous since this is my first year and she has attended public school for kindergarten and first grade. So I am jumping in.... Wow that is scary. I have signed her up for a few extra curricular activities. Now I have to figure out a schedule that works for the whole family. I wonder how mom's get it all done. House cleaning, and teaching, cooking etc. I would love to hear about schedules that work for you. Do fathers help out with this stuff or is all up to the moms? These are the questions I have...

Do you need a promotional code listing?

Promotionalcodes.com is a great place to find promotional codes on almost all stores... At least the most frequent ones. There are free shipping codes to discount codes on this website. Find the store of your choice and check it out the code and use the savings for your pocket!!!!

Traveling to citys

I found this awesome website called. Citypass.com This website allows you to get cheaper deals on certain citys... The cities included on these deals are: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Hollywood, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, San Fransico, Seattle, Toronto. It also includes southern California. On the left side of are the lists of citys... Click on them and check out the deals...

Garage Sales for Winter Clothing

Do you need winter clothing for your little ones? If so start checking out garage sales. Garage sales are a great way to cloth your children especially young children this way. Sometimes you can even find new clothing that has never been worn for a reasonable price. There are also group garages sales. For an example, www.herewegrowagain.biz is a large garage sale that happens a couple of times a year. Their prices are not retail and not garage sale. They are right in the middle. However as the sale goes on prices get cheaper. This is what I wait for. I believe if I am not mistaken on Saturday all prices go 50%. So check it out later and see if you can even find some play clothing for your kiddos.

Do you know where every dollar goes?

If you do awesome Job!!! Make sure to follow the good ole' budget. Yes I said budget. I know most people hate this word, but it works. Sit down figure out what you want to spend on each item, and what you are spending. Do not cut it all at once! That is a disaster waiting to happen, you will certainly fail. That can make all parties feel frustrated! Label items from clothing, to food, restaurants, etc. I personally pull out everything I can in cash. This keeps me from spending money I do not have! I am tired of giving Visa, Master Card my hard earned money arent you? Whether you right it out on paper or for the nerd, use an excel spreadsheet.. (That is what I call my husband, so please don't be offended) There are also things like quicken to help you keep a closer track on your money. Find what works for you! Debit cards can be a bad thing when you do not realize how much money you are spending! Pay attention, right it out... You can make financial goals of where you want to be in the future this may help you stay on track. Happy Tracking Your Money!

Great ways to save money and still get Holiday decor

After any holiday you will find almost everything on sale if not 75% off or so. I do this with all my christmas items especially. Christmas is my favorite so a few days after the rush is over I head to my local wal-mart and target and shop the clearance. I got all my goodie bags for next year for $1. These will hold up 100 people's worth of food items. I love baking goodies so what a great way to save yet allow people to enjoy. Halloween is another great way to get cute costumes. Even if you do not celebrate you can still get dress up clothing for your children much cheaper after the holiday... Being patient is the hard part I know I do it alot.... Another great way to save in the holiday season is celebrate christmas with your family after christmas. Get great deals after Christmas. What a great way to get more things for your family with out missing the holiday. Get creative if you see something on sale that you know your child will still want a few months from now purchase it and put it in a special spot so you will not forget... ;)

Gift Certificates

Another great way to save is on plasticjungle.com. This website allows for you to buy, sell or trade gift certficates. So if you need to make money and have a left over gift certficate you no longer will be using, this is a great way to get rid of it. Most gift certificates can be purchased a lower price than what it is worth. Check it out and let me know what you think about this. I just found out about this website so if you have used this please make a comment and tell us about your story... Thanks

Gift Certificates

Do you know that on restaurants.com you can find restaurant gift certificates at a cheaper value? They usually have some stipulations on the gift certficiate but however if you want a good deal this is the way to go. Some stipulations might include you spending $35 or such. Just read the fine print before using to make sure this is a good deal for you. Usually you can get a $25 gift certficate for $10. There sometimes are coupon codes out in the internet to google that can even lower this price. I personally have not used this but do know of some friends who have and love this. I think this website would work for special occasions and large groups of people of large families. I plan on using this soon.

Large Family Savings at Restuarants

Wow, lately I have had the opportunity of going from a family of 4 to a family of seven. Now I have had to find out other ways to save big when going out to eat. No longer can we go to the really nice restaurants and make it affordable. Great ways to save. Check dollar menus! Mcdonalds, Burger King have these. Taco bell also has a dollar menu, some items are even cheaper than $1. That is always a good thing. Subway has buy a footlong for $5. Little Cesars has pizza for $5. Yeah I know their left overs are not so great however for a quick meal on the go. These ideas can be very affordable. Always drink water. That saves the $ even more! All of us can go to Taco Bell for under $15. Still remember to keep a food budget no matter what size of a family you have. This will help you stay on track to keeping your dollar where it belongs.

Waterfest Lenexa Free

The 10th annual Waterfest is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 1, 2009 at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park in Lenexa, 87th Street and Lackman Road.

More info on link:http://www.raintorecreation.org/Waterfest.html

10 things not to say to someone who is a resource parent

1. Are they all yours? Seriously people, If you do not know and its not your business don't ask.... Now after the question is asked the parents have to explain and the children feel belittle because of their cirmcumstances... Just wait more an likely they will tell you in ways the children will be able to feel normal through it all
2. Are you sure you can handle it? 1st of all God would not have put them in their lives. 2nd of all they are already freaking out, so be positive and encouraging
3. Well thats not a money maker... Are you kidding me. Do you honestly think we do this for the money? Your right not a money maker, but it is help;ing wonderful children who deserve Gods love
4. You don't have to keep them? Seriously you look in their eyes and tell them they are not worthy of your home
5. Are you sure you want to adopt them? Of course I do... Why would I have them in my home if I didn't. They deserve a good home just like you got!
6. Tell the resource parent you look like you have too many kids and you don't know what to do. Who are you? Seriously have you helped the resource parent, if not be encouraging and help. These kids deserve a full energized mom.
7. Ask the mom if she has been messing with the milkman while her husband is right their. Stop being hurtful what if she did cheat on her husband, don't you think it would have hurt her feelings or possibly the children. (for all you reading no I didn't)
8. Are you sure bi-racial children should be adopted by your family? Are we not in the 21st century? Why does color of skin matter? These kids are beautiful and have so much potential in life to be wonderful people...
9. Chew the mom out for not having enough room in their house for them all when you have never even been to their home. Well the state decides how many children they can have in their home and actually for all of you I have room for one more according to them. (no plans to fill it either) Our house is actually huge compared to where they have come from!
10. Tell your kids all about the situation. They do not need to know. More an likely your kids will say things to the resource kids. How do you think they are going to feel? They just want to feel normal or as normal as possible given their situation.

Sorry if I have offended anyone, I just want people think before you open your mouths. Your mouth is the most powerful portion of your body. I know I have used it for the wrong unfortunately. It can either build up or discourage people. Use it for God's glory!!! The resource parents are going through alot already, Encourage Them!

Sorry for not posting lately

Sorry I haven't posted lately... My computer broke and still needs lots of work. Then to top it all off I have 3 new foster kiddos in my home.... So life has been busy! Hopefully in the next few months my hubby will get my computer up an running! Who knows when... Well for now adios see you all soon!

Lenexa Great BBQ June 26th and 27th

This event is Free on Saturday but admission is on Friday. So to make it more affordable for you BBQ'ers check it out on Sat...

HOURS:Friday 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more info.
http://www.ci.lenexa.ks.us/parks/bbq.html

Stay at home mom's credit

To all you who stay at home... You are doing a great thing! The other day I had someone tell me that staying at home must be so easy. They continued on saying that you dont even have a job. Well I let them know staying at home is harder than working. I told them all the things I do in just a single day. They could not believe it! So for all you moms who struggle with this battle. You are doing the right thing! Your kids will know you love them! Keep up the good work and strive to do better tomorrow. We all could use improvement, including myself! Don't compare yourself to the amazing mother next door we all have one of those. Be happy with who God made you! You were made by the most amazing creator, and He knows what your kids need. Follow him and you will succeed!

Todays is the day to hang with family

We have extended family in from town so I am down here in southern Kansas just chillin with my hubbies family. This weekend we get to go to the lake for a family reunion. This should be a good time. I am hoping that it does not rain like the one time it did a few years ago. So if you do not here from me in a few days that is why. Next week is Vacation bible school so I am limited in my time available. So I hope you have a great week if I do not post. Who knows...

Things to do while its raining

I know its can get so boring with it raining days after days. Here is a list of indoor activities that can keep your dollar the same and your kids from killing each other.


1. Go to a local mall and find the kid play place (in Olathe there is a place called zonkers in the great mall and they have a large free kids play place in the mix of all their other things.)
2. Go the library for a story time or to play on the computers
3. Have a movie day.. Where you pop some popcorn and get into pjs and make it fun... You could even invite some friends to watch too!
4. If there is no lighting and its warm let the kids play in the rain, I know when I was little playing the rain was a blast...
5. Play games indoors
6. Make homemade playdoh and play with it afterwards
7. Make homemade cookies or cakes or brownies
8. Find a craft that you have always wanted to make the kiddos and have fun!
9. Pick a day called yes... This is the day while one kid can ask you to do whatever they want within reason of course. You can make meals of their choice and do it with them. Whether its barbies to movies, to playing games. You will find your childs interests that day and help with bonding
10. Organize and clean out a room, I do this with the kids bedrooms. This allows them to declutter, I rearrange furniture and redecorate and clean the entire room including the ceiling fans and windows. My kids love the look afterward. I ask them to help accordingly, whether its just sorting toys.

Kansas City Chalk & Walk Festival

This is somewhere I would like to go, I now personally crown center is very nice. However I have not been to this event. Unfortunatley would not be able attend so if you are there please let me know your thoughts on this event.

Friday, June 19 - Saturday, June 20

Admission: FREE
Time: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: Crown Center Square

Kansas City River Market

This is a free attraction for the whole family to enjoy. The farmers market is a great experience for kids to see all different types of vegetables and maybe you can pick some out to make something wonderfully homemade with your kids. Usually a vendor will work with you on prices which can make this trip a win win for all to enjoy. If this is not close to you then check for a local farmers market however I feel this trip is well worth it. There are also many other attractions there that do cost money however. Totally try to stay in budget! Thats the key, if you want to enjoy have a budget before you go. Here is the link, so you can check out the attraction before you go. Have Fun!

http://www.kcrivermarket.com/index.php

Vacation Bible Schools

Vacation Bible schools are a great way to get your kids to have a great fun filled week for free. Not only do they get to learn about Jesus, but they teach them how to accept them into their hearts. This free activity could be the most life changing event for kids. Don't miss out on the fun.... If you do not have a local church, look around at your signs on your churchs near your home and see if its something your kids could enjoy. Who knows you may find some great friends and great church home this way. Pray about where God wants your kids and he will lead you! Have a great time!

Free sippy cup or water bottle with Juicy Juice

Check below to register and recieve your free sippy cup or water bottle. http://www.juicyjuice.com/Login/Register.aspx

Free tampax pearl sample

Click below to get your sample:

http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid71900.aspx

Check your local library

I personally was checking our local library and found tons of educational or fun things to do with my children during the summer. They had movie nights for the whole family to spanish classes for kiddos. Even if you do not find what you are looking for check with other neighboring towns and make it a field trip for the kids. Could be great day filled with the library and a picnic at a new park. Free ideas for the wonderful summer filled with little adventures for the kids!

Deanna Rose Childrens Farmstead

As I have talked about previously, this is one of my favorite free places to visit with my kids. We all seem to enjoy it tremdously.

Dairy Day - June 13

For more info:
http://www.opkansas.org/_Vis/Farmstead/index.cfm

Music in the Park Overland Park

Bring your family! Bring a picnic! Bring a chair! But leave your wallet at home because these concerts are always FREE!
Music in the Park is offered each Sunday, in the summer, from:
7 to 8:30 p.m. Santa Fe Commons Park81st and Santa Fe Drive

2009 Music in the Park Series - Sunday nights
June 7 Overland Park Orchestra Classical
June 14- July 5 Overland Park Civic BandShowtunes, Variety
July 12 The 312th US Army Reserve Band Patriotic, Standards
July 19 The Dixie Doodlers Dixieland
July 26The Rain Dogs Modern Bluegrass
Aug. 2 51% Blues Band Blues and Jazz
Aug. 9 Jim Cosgrove and the Hiccups Children’s Music
Aug. 16 Heart of America Barbershop Chorus A-Cappella Barbershop

http://www.opkansas.org/_Res/Things_to_Do/Arts_and_Music/music_park.cfm

Children's Concerts, Storytime Overland Park

It’s wigglin’ Wednesdays at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty.

Children's Concerts
June 10 10 to 10:30 a.m. Funky Mama
June 24 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Dino O’Dell
July 22 10 to 10:30 a.m. Dino O’Dell
July 29 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Funky Mama
Jim Cosgrove and the Hiccups, aka Mr. Stinky Feet, will perform Aug. 9 at Music in the Park.

http://www.opkansas.org/_Res/Things_to_Do/Arts_and_Music/kids_concerts.cfm

Mahaffie Stage Coach Free Thursday Evenings

I totally suggest going and visiting these grounds if you have never visited before. There is tons of history about kansas right here in the city of Olathe. They have different events going on throughout the summer, they also have a flyer describing the different events.
http://www.olatheks.org/Mahaffie/Events

Mahaffie Stage Coach Family Fun Event

Tuesday June 9th in Olathe, this event is Free to all from 6-8P.M. The olathe civic band will be playing that night as well.
Click below for more info:
http://www.olatheks.org/Mahaffie/Events

Cedar Lake Fishing Derby FREE!

June 13th Fishing Derby in Olathe is Free!

Here is the info:

FREE EVENT & FREE GIVEAWAYS!Saturday, June 13* Rainout Make-up Date June 20Cedar Lake (South of 151st on Lone Elm Road)Ages 3 to 15 and 60 plus (Participation limited to the first 600)
Gates open at 7:30amParticipants must register in personRegister from 8am to 10amFish from 10am to 12pmFree lunch from 12pm to 1pm (Hot Dog Lunch for the entire family)Trophy presentation from 1pm to 1:30pm

http://www.olatheks.org/ParksRec/Fishing

Cabelas

June 13th: The kids fishing derby is going on. They are also providing hot dogs for the kids that participate. They have different age groups for each child. To have fun click the button below for more info. This is only in Kansas City as well. So double check your area.

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/community/aboutus/retail-detail.jsp?detailedInformationURL=/cabelas/en/content/community/aboutus/retail/retail_stores/kc/kc.html&cm_re=retail*left*kc

Bass Pro Shop

Free Summer camp at Bass pro shop. May 30 through July 5 on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6pm. They are allowing kids to have free laser shooting in the gallery, free casting pond, free shooting range, free crafts, free photos and so much more. Please check your local Bass pro if not in Kansas to make sure. Great family outing. Click below for more info...

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CFPageC?storeId=10151&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&appID=163&option=3&template=circular.cfm&catalog=jun1_insert_tab&rfx_versioningid=036&storeID=49

5 Tips for getting out of debt

1. I use cash for almost everything I can. I have been doing this for at least 9 months now and have paid off thousands in debt. Yes I make mistakes, actually I made one last month with thinking I can handle the debit card. Boy was I wrong... Its okay to make mistakes just start again. Keep trying!
2. If you do not have the cash for it do not buy it! This is hard, especially for me... I want stuff now, but we all can wait!
3. Find friends who are doing the same thing, do not try to hang out with people who try very hard to blow their paycheck before they get it! It will be very hard to stay on budget around them.
4. Find older people who spend their money wisely, I do not mean grandpa who still has car loans either. I mean grandma who stores money in her sugar container for a rainy day.
5. Google ways to save money... There are tons of ways to save money that you have not even thought of yet.

I know this is hard, but you can do it! Do it for your family! You could change your whole family tree!

Dancing

Today I got to watch Big A. dance and her dance show. Man it was so weird to see my little girl with make up on. I did her hair all up. To see your children grow up is so amazing. I feel so blessed to be able to stay at home with her and see every precious moment of her life. I am feeling very thankful for her and little A. Can't wait to see the recital tomorrow night!

Reasonable priced snacks for kiddos

Yes most of these are homemade. I have found that homemade is much more affordable than buying prepackaged or made for you.

1. Graham crackers with icing
2. Jello (you can even add fruit to make it healthier)
3. Pudding
4. Chocolate chip cookies (homemade of course)
5. Fruits
6. Yogurt
7. Applesauce
8. Icy pops
9. Ice Cream (yes you can make this homemade as well)
10. Saltine crackers with Peanut butter


I would love to hear of more ideas on this... These are my kids favorites so that is why I chose to post them.

15 Free things to do in the Kansas City Metro

1. The arborteum (Overland Park)
2. Deanna Rose Farmstead
3. Celebration at the station on memorial weekend
4. Zoo for moms on mothers day
5. Tons of Bike/walking trails
6. The plaza lights during thanksgiving and christmas
7. Nelson Atkins museum
8. Old Settlers Day (olathe)
9. The library has tons of programs that are free!
10. Kaliedoscope
11. Cave Spring Historic Site and Nature Center
12.Free Friday night flicks at Crown Center
13. Childrens Peace Pavillon
14. Lakeside Nature Center
15. Splash pad at Loose park

There are so many more things, and post your comment if you know of more for my viewers.

Everyone has bad days.... Really we all do!

The other day well the other week was awful. It started with little things just annoying every ounce of my being. I had so much to do yet I found myself struggling to get the simple things done. For an example I will tell you about my friday and saturday. I woke up on friday just feeling grumpy, so in order to not be grumpy to anyone I decided I will read the newspaper while eating my cereal. While flipping a page (minding my own buisness) my elbow hit the cereal bowl and I wore all of the cereal in my lap. All I could do was scream because the milk was so cold. Then I just laughed.... So after my shower because the cereal was everywhere... I wanted to put lotion on. I had just gotten a whole bunch of bottles of lotion given to me not knowing that one bottle was body wash. Guess which one I grabbed! Yep you guessed it the body wash and rubbed it all over my legs before it even dawned on me that that was another problem. I could not get it rubbed it at all... DUH! Back to the shower I went. Friday proceeded to be like this. By the end of the day you can say I was ready for bed. Saturday came with another set of problems. My hubbie was driving my car in the morning and the brake lights kept turning on in the car, then the airconditioning stopped working for him. So honestly I just thought it was a fluke because the whole week was this way. Later I had to get ready for the bachelorette party I was hosting. My hubbie and I proceeded on blowing up the balloons, which for some reason took forever! literally... They kept popping over and over... So after all of this was done, I began to leave and realized I left the soda at home. I was already running late. Back home I went. Thank God I was only a few blocks away from home. So I finally got to the location and had to kick guys out of the house. Are you kidding me? Seriously who brings their boyfriend to a bachelorette party, then then they were irrated with me. (Everyone knew it was girls only) After decorating I realized hey, I forgot the cake topper at home. Off to home, I went. Then my brakes lights turned on, airbag light turned on, then I could smell brakes. A couple of blocks from home airconditioning turned of and the whining began. It was very loud that people looked as I drove. All I kept thinking was make it home. Thank God it did. Then I get the phone call, hey I found the cake topper in the sink... By this point my car was turned off, Guess what wouldn't start back up. yup your right! MY CAR! At least it died at home. So I had to get the bachelorette come and get me. Then when she realized the boyfriend was at my house, because I had to kick him out from hers she was pissed. I wasn't even planning on telling her, but thats my day... God completely took care of it all though, we had a wonderful time once we got passed all the crud Satan was throwing our way. My hubbie fixed my car with great success in an afternoon. I am in a much better mood today than I was on Saturday! So the moral of the story is bad days come and go, and know God is with you through it all.... My car could have died in the middle of the road, yet God made it last until my driveway. It doesn't get any better than that! Thank you Jesus!

10 Saving money tips... Part 1

Some people have been asking how I save money. Here are just some ways I have found to save money.

1. Hang around people that save money. Do not spend time with people who enjoy blowing money, this will make you desire to spend money you do not have...
2. Look at how people that are older saved money. For example hang your clothing outside to dry.
3. Turn off or down the heater when not at home.
4. Use walmart sacks or plastic sacks you get from stores as garbage bags, works great in the bathroom.
5. Make meals at home, when you do double and freeze the other. That way you can have another meal another day.
6. Turn down your water heater.
7. Use cloth diapers when at home with your kids.
8. Garage sales, Garage Sales, Always negotiate the price when shopping there! If they are not willing to haggle move on, somebody else will...
9. Find items that you can fix up on Craigs list, freecycle, etc. That way you do not have much investment in furniture and if you want sell it to make a profit.
10. Coupons, coupons

Free Chocolate

Enjoy free chocolate on fridays. Fill in the info here...

https://realchocolate.com/default.aspx Enjoy..

Steven Curtis Chapman

I was listening to K-love realizing that this was the one year anniversary of when his daughter went to heaven. At first glance it makes me very sad, but then on the hand. His daughter is in HEAVEN! Yeah he will miss her that part completely sucks. But no more pain for her what so ever. She can be completely happy worshiping God! What a great day that would be! I think we need to be thankful for the time we get with our loved ones, yet we need to rejoice instead of being sad everytime a believer goes to meet Christ! I am listening to the Mercy me song, "I can only imagine" as I write this. It totally fits what that Girl is enjoying!

Stress Management

Today I heard this sad story of a man who got frustrated at work and told someone off. They ended up loosing their job because the man got into the other man's face and some very disheartening words were shared. Do you ever feel like this man, where you want to tell someone off? If so their are so many other ways of dealing with your anger... God has lots of ideas in the bible about anger. He wants us to love each other. Have you ever heard the old saying Stop anger with kindness? I know this can be very difficult at times. Jesus left us a great example of what we need to do when we feel frustrated. Prayer and fasting is a great start.
Another tool I use is working out. It relieves so much stress... I hate going but then once I am there I feel so much better!!! We all need to find things to help destress us.. Satan wants you to loose your cool, so don't let him win.

Why do we have to keep up with the neighbors?

What is that all about anyway? Why do we feel we have a right for what the neighbor worked hard to get? I have someone in my life for an example if I get a haircutt or buy something new they are right behind me doing the same. Why can't we be happy with who God made us? Why do we have to have something different than what God has blessed us with? I know I have done this especially living where I do... It is hard to be thankful, but we need to be because we do not deserve it...

Garage Sales

Today was a great day for garage sales.... My family went out shopping, and what a blessing it was! My deals of the day included:
Swing Set $10
Turtle sand box, 2 purses and a gas can $10
Mega block piece set of 80, little people noah's ark, Barbie pool set $10
Diaper genie, 4 wheel motorized car, playskool sit and spin $13
6 wooden puzzles 50 cents
new light fixture 2 lights for a bathroom $3
Disney scooter for large little girl $4

Yes I bargained all of these deals! I never pay what is listed on an item. If I feel like the person is not willing to bargain I got next door... I do not and will not deal with shister,( is that how you spell that, if not I just made a word)...
Overall I got great deals for my kids mainly but this is how to save money... Why spend full price on new toys that kids are going to wear down? This way when something when it gets broken no biggie...

Healthy Children

Yesterday I was watching this awful story about India's s** slave children. How sad this was... Then it hit me, what am I doing to make sure my children do not end up the same way as these poor little children. Am I spending the time with them necessary to help them be happy children in life? Am I teaching them right from wrong correctly? Am I provided for all of their needs? Then I realized what am I doing to help the other children. I know Craig and I are foster parents now, yet we have no children in our home. I think this episode helped me to realize that every child is God's child and that no matter if it came from my belly or not. These children God gives me are my children to protect and love unconditionally as Christ loves me. I pray that I can love them with the love they deserve. I want our ministry to full of Christ, and I pray that every child that walks through our door will be changed because of Christ! We need to pray for children in general so many children are becoming s** slaves. We do not realize the impact on them, since most of us have never understood this lifestyle. These children need love... Thank you God for my healthy and happy children!

Trash Hunting

How many people actually go trash hunting? I wondered that myself. So many people throw good things away. Why do not people save money and sell the items or even just give them away to someone else? I guess its time consuming to do so. We (Americans) never understood the matter of really being poor! So many days I find great deals on the curb! Yesterday I got little A. a tractor someone was just throwing away. He loves it and nothing is wrong with besides a little ware. Well I thought to myself he is going to do that! Food for thought, free things on the curb!

The night of trials

Why do children have to lie to their parents to realize it is wrong? It can be so hurtful. The day of lying! Got to love Satan! NOT!!!! I really hope she sees what she did was wrong. She is now grounded tomorrow, and still is justifing her actions. Wow, how raising kids can be difficult!

Clothing

Thanks to a wonderful friend, I got some new clothing given to me for my kiddos. I was so excited. I got some space saving bags on clearance at wal-mart. So I can save for the future kiddos! What a blessing!

Do you ever feel unworthy?

I know I do. I always have tons of things to do yet I fight sleeping! What the heck? I have nothing to be upset about yet I am consitantly trying to sleep my life away. Or it feels that way. I have so many things I am supposed to be doing and starting up. I'll take another nap. I feel so unworthy most days. I wish and pray that God will help me through this!

Digging Fence

Are you the type of person who will drag it home? Well I just found out my hubbie and I are... Someone on free cycle was giving away a fence, but we had to deinstall it from her yard first. Guess what we did on Saturday, dug alot fence out of the ground so we could have fence in our yard. Completely free. Unfortunetly we need another 100 feet of fence. So were on the search again for someone who does not want their fence. But hey were half way done! Saving money takes effort in aspect of your life. Do you want to struggle the rest of your life or do you want to feel free of debt? Its all up to you!

Target

Yesterday we went shopping at Target. I was very excited to find some great deals. They had shirts and shorts for $3.50 for our oldest daughter and they had swimsuits on clearance. We got a swimsuit for $8.00 that was a $20 swimsuit... But then the day got sour when our youngest fell completely out of the cart and bonked his head on the floor. He has such a noggin we felt awful. My hubbie tried so hard to catch him, yet failed. Somehow while falling he cut his face a little as well. Talk about a huge bummer at Target. This is truley the lives of any christian. God constantly blesses us with wonderful things, yet Satan tries very hard to not let you enjoy it. I am very thankful that all he got was a little bump on the head. Thank you Jesus!

Making things homemade

Today I made some homemade bread... At first I wondered if this would be cheaper. After I added all the ingredients, it seemed cheaper... However after seeing the result of the bread, maybe 6 pieces. I am not for sure if it is however I know its healthy for my family. And the quality of bread I made I never could have gotten from a store. Yeah I can get cheap bread but is it as good. These are things you need to weigh when making things homemade. Sometimes it maybe more but it could be healthier for your family. We all have choices to make.

Conference

This past weekend my husband and I were at a conference. The conference had some wonderful speakers in regards to all sorts of subjects. The one subject that caught my attention was making many meals and then freezing them for a later date. I ended up purchasing the book they were promoting, because this idea helps me take my saving money to a new adventure. They discussed how you would spend one whole day cooking for about 30 meals. So I tried a smaller version of this other day I ended up making 7 meals in about one hour. The same time as it took me to make one. I wanted sloppy joes for supper so what I did was instead off cooking one pound of hamburger I cooked 7 pounds. Then I split them up into different options. I made a hamburger helper, spaghetti type meal, etc. I got the recipes online and tried them out. My family has been so happy to have meals everyday! Once these are cooked all I have to do is unthaw them and warm them up! Its great!

The name of this is 30 day gourmet! I love it! Check it out ladies and tell me what you think!

Yeah I got my kitchen clean

I love days my kitchen gets clean, Little man is asleep so I can scrub it down... Otherwise I have a helper and it takes me so much longer... ;) Now I get to plan my meals to make so I can freeze them for a later date, I am so excited to see the results of my labor! Hopefully some good meals that the whole family will enjoy!

Cheerios

This morning I was so excited to get things done... Yet, I find myself cleaning up messes... Yippee another day of cleaning... My hubbie was sleeping in this morning cause he stayed up late doing the oil changes in the cars and mower for the season. Which I am glad he did, however he brought up the diaper bag which had cheerios in them. I did not see this either until my son had already found them. I looked and there was the mess all over the floor he had opened the container and was eating the cheerios off the floor, yeah he spilled them in my hallway, kitchen and dining room. I love messes like these I find cheerios for months after this. Then to top it all of I get to do laundry today. I hate laundry of all things laundry. seriously why did God have to event cloths that we have to clean, why not design us to have perment clothing or something of the sort... lol... Later I get to run my cat to the vet, the great part about it is she hates cars, vet, and anything that does not involve her home. She is completely skiddish. She will probably pee everywhere in her container which I will get to clean.... So exciting! Well I need to be thankful I guess that I have a cat... I need to be thankful that I can clean up the messes I guess, I really need to change my heart, huh...

Price Chopper and Hy Vee

Check your sale ad's this week tons of 10 for 10$... I used coupons on top of it all, I ended up saving 144$ on my bill at Price Chopper this week. I only spent 162. Yes ladies I almost saved half of my bill doing deals with coupons. I got tons of deals, and this food will last us at least a couple of months if not more.

The cashier at price chopper said I set a record on how much any person has savedin her line. The cash register even stopped in the middle with all the coupons I had and asked for a manger. The manager had to finish putting the last half of my coupons in the system. She was in complete shock. The cashier asked me if I do this alot. I let her know about my 28 cent bargain at CVS. I only spent 28cents and walked out with 6 bags of groceries with my sales and coupons, then I had CVS bucks. I then let her know about my walgreens trip yesterday. I walked out of the store with 4 bags of groceries and had 58cents to spare. I had sales plus coupons plus walgreens money, and then a walgreens giftcard they had sent me for buying items last month. She then could not believe everything I told her. Then the whole line of people behind got interested in this deal. So I just let all know my plans of organizing my coupons and ads!!!!

Price Chopper

Hello all,
Take a look at this weekends Price Chopper ad.... Tons of 10 for 10$. Then match up coupons and stock load... I noticed several items way cheaper than normal on this ad. Also I noticed the Knoll pasta's at a very low price, I had some coupons that I had saved. Just take a look and see what you have, and I bet you can get great deals this weekend! Happy shopping!

Coupons in Sunday's paper

As you all might have noticed, there was no coupons in Sundays paper. But don't give up on saving money this week... Lets get creative... Go online to coupons.com and print the things you absoluetely have to buy this week, Use last weeks coupons for this weeks sales... Go to Craigs list if you need to buy furniture or even Ebay... There are tons of ways to save money, you just have to put effort in to making every dollar scream for savings...

24 Hour Fitness

I wanted to get a gym membership, but did not want to pay alot. So I began searching the area for my local gyms. I noticed I really liked 24 hour fitness but they had 49$ initial start up fee plus you pay 29$ a month. This I thought was a little bit to much, so I began google coupon codes so I could get it cheaper. I found a code online for the intial start up fee to be free, Yes ladies it was free to start. So I only had to pay for first and last months gym membership with no contract. Even if you do not want a gym membership think about things before you do them. Google a coupon when ever possible...

24 hour fitness

Yes, I am going to try to lose the baby fat. I signed up for the gym... Man am I scared. I have no idea how long it has been since I worked out. A long time and fat has been piling... lol So here it goes, losing weight begins tomorrow at 5:30 A.M. Did I say 5:30? I must be crazy, for thinking this... :)

What a day!

Today was a day of challenge. My little boy is so challenging most days, and today was no different... We went to store after lunch thinking what a great time, he just woke up from a nap and his belly is full... Nope, boy did I get that one wrong, he screamed through the whole Dollar General. Totally embarrassed!!! So I decided to go home after that trip and said to myself I will try this later. I went to wal-mart after picking up my daughter from school... Guess who was the loud kid again, but to top it all off, he kept throwing everything out of the cart he could reach. He is so out of control! My older daughter is nothing like this. I have no idea what happened... My mother in law said my husband was like this.. sometimes I wonder to myself I wasn't so why do I get to raise him... lol. I love him, but man my patience were tried today...

Needing to be thankful

I went shopping today, and ended up at a large furniture store... This store made me so ungrateful for the things I have. I really wish I would not have gone. I want to be happy with the things God has blessed me with, yet all I can think about is the things I don't have for my kids. I really need to change my attitude towards material things. Man I know things could be worse yet here I am, ungrateful brat... SO FRUSTRATING... Please God Help me to appreciate the things I have.

The day of inner struggles

I am so confused on what I want for my life. One moment I want to be pregnant again, expecting such a bundle of joy. Then I want to foster children, but if I get pregnant I think it would be tough to foster children at the same time. Then I think about fostering little kids with problems and do I really want to do that. Then the other side of me wants to stop having kids all together. Why am I so confused with this? Should I not have a good understanding of what I want. I think if I had more money I would feel more comfortable with having children. But then I think about little A and how much trouble he gives me on daily basis. Somedays he completely exhaustes me. I am fearful of another child like him. I love him don't get me wrong, I just dont know if I have the patience for two or more like him. He loves to test me on daily basis. I really wish I knew what I wanted so I could express my desires to my hubby. But here I am, confused, very confused.

Get the Sunday Paper

Today had tons of coupons in the paper. If your neighbor or family member gets one, ask to have it after they are done, in hopes of duplicating the paper. Enjoy couponing today!

Free Jiffy Mix receipi book

Fill out the form and they will send you a receipe book...

http://www.jiffymix.com/recipeform.php

Free sample of Force Flex trash bags

click below to fill in your info... Thanks mygoodcents for letting us all know...

http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?catg=13238

Free Sample of Jessica Parker Perfume

Click on the link below and fill in the information to get a free sample...

http://www.sarahjessicaparkerbeauty.com/

Free Photos

Go to artscow if you have not become a member and receive tons of free photos. There are also codes online that you can google to get more free. I this week used my free 8x8 photobook for free. I only paid for shipping. I will let you know how that goes. But so far so good.


Artscow.com

Free Samples at Wal-mart

Click below to check out all the samples wal-mart sends your way! For example Free Rachel Ray Dog Food, to enfamil, to zyrtec, the list keeps on going... Check out before supplies run out.

http://instoresnow.walmart.com/In-Stores-Now-Free-Samples.aspx

31 cents scoop night

April 21st... click below for more info.


http://www.baskinrobbins.com/Spotlight/31CentScoopNight.aspx

Free RedBox

The Redbox Code for today is MMM401.

Free Aveeno Hair Care

Here is a simple way of getting FREE hair care products. Check out the website fill in the information you will have a sample sent to your house. I am not sure of the size.

https://secure.startsampling.com/sm/100630/raf.iphtml?memberid=CRAIGNELISHA@YAHOO.COM&item=100632&button=Share+the+News

New Ad's

Reminder today is the day Hy-vee and Price-chopper releases their new ads for the week and weekend specials. Check them againist your coupons and stock up... Enjoy shopping!

Today

Well today was wonderful day... My little man wanted to snuggle. I could not believe it. He napped in my arms. I could not have asked for anything better, but something better happened. My older girl asked for me to help her with homework. Both of these things never happen. My older girl gives me a hard time daily with homework, and my little man never snuggles. I am glad God gave me today with my kids.

CVS Photos

If you do not have a CVS account online. If you open one if can get 50 free 4x6 prints. I did this this morning and I received the email to say that I get the free prints. How exciting for you momma's who love to scrapbook pictures....

Here is the link:
http://www.cvsphoto.com/home.aspx

Freecycle

Freecycle is a great place to get free things. Different post of this website and list what they are willing to give away for free. You then can contact them and pick up the item... Completely FREE! You may also list things you are in need of, then someone can contact you and let you know that you may get the item from them.

If interested the link is below:

http://www.freecycle.org/

Organizing

I am really wanting to organize my kids rooms. I am so tired of all these toys cluttering up everything. I think this is what starts my frustration. Then I would love to have more cabinet space in my kitchen and dining room. My kitchen's pots and pans now get stored in my oven. I use them all. I have already cleaned out the clutter, but need some organizing help.... Any ideas would be great.

Redbox Free Rental

Todays free Monday Code is 89ZQJ3. This expires at Midnight tonight.

Find out what day the ads come out

Check with your local grocer's and see what day their ad comes out. I have found that if I wait until the end of the week, sometimes they are out of the items needed to save money. Then I have wasted a trip.

This Weekend

Beautiful Snow....

This weekend was a wonderful weekend of fellowship with friends and family. To top it all off it snowed. Yes it snowed in March.... I could not believe it. Here I was wearing shorts a week ago and planning my garden. We got dumped on. It was so beautiful to see it snow. I went out a took some pictures.

Do not be label specific

What I mean is do not favor a brand over another...

If one brand is on sale but you use another. Save money and use the brand, Who knows you might even like it more. I know I especially do this because my husband loves Charmin, but not always is it on sale. So I stock up on Charmin when I can, and use the other brands the rest of the time. Yeah he grumps at me... But I am a home economist and I want DEBT FREE! He understands but loves his Charmin.

Do not pay full price on these items

These are list of items I have noticed you should never pay full price:

• Toiletry items
• Cleaning supplies
• Pet Supplies
• Snacks
• Cereals
• Canned Foods
• Frozen Vegetables
• Fruits "yes fruits watch the sales"
• Meats
• New products being introduced
• Baby products

Coupon Sunday

The Sunday paper is great way to get coupons. I get very excited in the mornings looking for my paper. Before church I go pick it up. Then after church and family lunch time. Its couponing time.. Yeah baby! I usually spend a couple of hours just enjoying myself. I organize my coupon book, to make sure I don't have any expired coupons. Then I add the new ones. I also pull out the ones that will be expiring soon in hopes of finding a sale on them as well.



I go through every sale ad. Yes ladies I said every. You never know what is the best deal until you look at it all... Match as many coupons as you can with a sale. That is a great way to save money or even get the item FREE! Yes I said FREE! I have gotten tons of items FREE.

There are many other ways to get coupons, but that will be for a later date.

Today is the day

Today I am going to start sharing for people in the Kansas City area. Couponing is the key to success when it comes to financial freedom. If you don't use a coupon it is like you throwing the money in the trash. Why do you work then? Most people say I don't have time for that.... That is the common phrase. Well I am here to tell you, isn't your life worth more free time if you can figure it out. The more money you save the less you have to work.

Dave Ramsey is another key financial aspect that most people forget. Follow his plan and your life will change. Plan either way is so important to financial success. Just think about it.

Couponing

Yesterday in the paper I noticed tons of coupons. Normally I see them and use them occasionally. However I heard of this woman who stocks up on coupons and sales in the paper. Then makes her menu accordingly. She spents 125$ a month on food for a family of four... I could not belive it... So yesterday I couponed.. Then I went through the ads and anything on sale that we would use of course as long as it had a coupon I will buy it. I made myself a pantry. How exciting this might be to lower our food budget. It took a lot of work, yet I found some great deals that had I not taken the time I would never had found them. Yippie!!!!

The struggles of doing what I am supposed to do.

Today has been such an interesting one. (Not really) I have gotten to sleep in. How wonderful... I got up with the kiddos, then dosed on the couch, while they played around. That never happens. I should be cleaning the house... Yucky. But here I find myself, blogging. Why am I so addicting to writing? I love writing! Last night we went to church. I love our church. I couldn't have asked for a better church. I am making great friends. Anyway better go for now. I really need to clean.

What makes you happy?

What makes you happy? That is a question I find asking myself over and over. I find hobbies I enjoy, yet I still find myself depressed on certain days. Seriously I really wonder some days what is wrong with me. Why do I struggle with being happy? I should be grateful for having all things I have, Yet, here I am whining about my life. I think I really know my problem, but it is not fixable.

Extended family can be such jerks.... Yet I still desire to have a relationship with them. That question I do not understand. I find myself putting up with them telling me that I am a failure. Yet I have done more with my own life, then they ever have. Some days I wish I wasn't a christian and could tell me them off. Yet, here I am still being nice.

If you have this problem, what do you do to find happiness outside of your extended family? I would love advice. They seem to drag me down every time I call. I am a christian will not treat them poorly since they do not know Christ. So please give good feedback if you have it. Thanks