Frugal Village

photo by jurvetson

DEAR SARA: I need an idea for cheap spring party gifts for my daughter’s classroom friends. There are 28 kids in the class, and they are in kindergarten. I want to send in something different from the standard homemade cupcakes. I’m looking for something more fun. Ideas? How can I keep it low […]

photo by danperry.com

Many of you are working hard at frugality because you have to. I’m no exception. I’m tightening the belt more than ever. My readers talk about how they sometimes wish there were a “frugal fairy” who granted wishes. She could wave her magic wand and let them choose one area where they didn’t […]

Valentine’s Day can be the most frustrating holiday. I see the tension rise as couples scramble to find the perfect romantic gift idea that isn’t a cliche or cheap and tacky. Most can’t afford luxury gifts, so the pressure is on to express their love within their means. It seems ridiculous. I feel sorry for […]

photo by benbengraves

Holiday gatherings are often highlighted by signature dishes — favorites that appear year after year. Without that single recipe, the celebration just wouldn’t be the same. Maybe it’s a recipe that has been handed down through the generations and evokes fond memories or a story. Eating it feels like home.
If you enjoyed this […]

I’m sick of it! Yes. I’m completely sick and tired of manufacturers overpackaging toys. It seems everywhere I look, there’s a child or parent struggling to open a toy. It’s become dangerous. You’ve been there, or maybe you’ve heard me screaming for the toolbox to get my daughter’s doll out of the packaging. This was […]