I just figured out what I am going to do for Christmas for all my relatives. I am going to make a small book on saving money. I've been finding all kinds of ways to be frugal and save money since becoming unemployed and I'm always hearing everyone talk about how they wish they could save more money. Well I will be more than glad to share my tips with them on things that work well for me and my household. It will be inexpensive to make for everyone, yet hopefully useful. I'm also considering giving away samples of my homemade cleaning supplies to them along w/ the books. What do you guys think of something like this? I know I would enjoy a gift like this but not totally sure about others. My SO of course will get something else but I'm thinking a coupon book and some homemade candles for him since he loves candles.
I think it's a good idea. Many people in our culture have no idea how to save money, seriously. They can't distinguish a need from a want. I do homemade gifts as well. We do homemade gifts too-all my friends are getting Mexican Coffee Mix this year and a couple will get a nice mug with it. Though I have one friend who doesn't drink coffee (weirdo! LOL) so she'll get something different. Next year I'll be doing a cookbook for friends & family. I need the time to type them up, take photos, format it, print it, cut it and bind it-no way I can do it in time this year.
I, for one, think that's a great idea! I can't speak for anyone else but I would love to get something like that for xmas. I am always looking for more idea's on how to save. The samples of homemade cleaning solutions are a great idea, maybe with a small card attached showing how they are made. Debbie
Definitely. I am going to include a recipe book with homemade cleaner ideas. Mine are pretty basic mostly using vinegar and/or baking soda. Some also use Castile soap. Nothing fancy but great for cleaning and inexpensive plus no allergy issues from smells(something I often deal with when using store bought items).
What a great idea! A friend of mine started couponing last year, and for our circle of girlfriends she gave us each a bag of groceries, which were ALL items she got for FREE! Then she shared her secrets. So anyway, you should share your book with us too!
My dd has been working on a cookbook she wants to give out.. its already been a yr and she still is not finished! One day she will be... maybe...
I had also thought about a cookbook. However the meals we eat at our house aren't very exciting and I would say most people already know how to make them. I'm still thinking maybe next year doing that though, especially with things like breads and desserts and baking type things. That is my real specialty it seems.
My husband loves to cook. Last year or the year before, he made cookbooks with all his favorite recipes. Some were recipes he came up with. He placed them in sleeves and a three ring binder. This year he is going to give out more recipes to add to the book.
My DH and I had this problem when we were first married and it took us awhile to figure things out. You'd think it would be simple, but for both of us it totally wasn't. I was used to being spoiled by my parents, and he was used to being alone and spending his money on himself instead of room, board and food. Almost everything we are getting our boys in going to be homemade (mostly crocheted by me), except the one thing they really want. Beau wants a cash register, and Pat wants some Batman figurines. Simple stuff. Beau, Pat, and Marion along with the 3 boys I babysit are all getting crocheted monsters or robots. lol SIlly boys.
I had a problem with this until I lost my job. Now that we basically lost half our income I have had to learn quickly how to measure wants and needs. I wait a full week before buying something to decide if it's a want or need. I almost exclusively shop used, except groceries of course. I've been learning how to shop cost effectively. It's not easy and I'm still learning. However now that I have to ask SO for the money to buy something it makes me think more too because he is asking about what and why etc. Now we have 2 brains measuring want vs need instead of just one. Christmas is going to be small and homemade. Dd will get something she wants, needs, to wear, and to read. That's it at our house because that's what we can afford. I'm not even going black friday shopping this year, and I'm not sending SO out this year. Last year I was super sick so he went out to get the 1 item I wanted and that is the only time I haven't gone myself in 10yrs. Not even looking at the ads this year though.
