Organic Produce, is it worth the cost?

Organic food can be expensive. I can’t always afford to pay extra even though it’s supposed to be healthier. However, sometimes it isn’t necessary to buy organic.

For produce, I use this rule of thumb: anything that has a thick skin you are going to peel or remove doesn’t really need to be organic. Bananas are a common one. There are very few pests that bother bananas so there aren’t too many pesticides used. You are going to peel it and eat only the inside anyhow, so why buy organic? You can save a few cents per pound by buying the regular ones. Oranges and other citrus are typically peeled so buying organic citrus is not that important. Just wash them before you slice them. (actually you should wash all produce, then wash your hands before eating, but I’m not always that neurotic)

Thin skin fruits and veggies are a better place for you to spend your organic dollar. Berries, carrots, celery, broccoli and the like may get sprayed more often because they have more pests to combat. If organic cucumbers or carrots are too expensive, I buy the regular kind and peel them well.

The most ridiculous organic item is real maple syrup. To make any real maple syrup, the sap is drained from mature maple trees and cooked to bring out the sugar. That’s it! So there is no point in spending extra money for the organic label when it’s probably the same syrup.

Organic canned and frozen foods as well as pasta can be more expensive than the regular versions. I look for the store brand organics first. As with anything, if there is a sale, stock up. Organic canned diced tomato is usually cheaper than organic tomato sauce. I buy these from Costco by the case and use them to make an easy tomato sauce, or just drain the liquid and throw them into pasta just as they are. You can also use them in many recipes that call for fresh tomato.

Organic or not, it’s generally cheaper to make things from scratch. It’s a good idea to learn to make simple recipes like pasta sauce and soups.

I am lucky enough to live near a farm stand that is open 4 days a week. All the produce is organic and still cheaper than the regular grocery store produce. Check local co-ops. Sometimes they buy local produce and can sell it cheaper. This depends on where you live in the country. Another great place to find cheaper foods is the ethnic markets. I like Asian and Mexican foods. By shopping in these stores you will find certain items much cheaper than the regular supermarket.

In all, I think the health benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables probably exceeds the dangers of pesticides. Buy organic when it makes sense, wash the heck out of everything else.

You can't loose weight on the Wii

I use the Wii as a scale to see how much I weigh once in a while. Here's a wakeup call! This is my 1046th day. I did not achieve my goal of losing 10 lbs in a month. I weigh exactly 1.1 lbs less than 1046 days ago. (That's overweight) My Wii Fit age is 32 (that's good news) and according to this stupid machine, whose opinion I seem to care so much about, my body is "still" in good shape. But, my mii has a belly that sticks out. Ugh!

Black Friday is a Farce

Lifehacker’s article on Black Friday is right. It’s just not worth the time to get up at a ridiculous hour on a holiday weekday to get in line to try to save a few dollars on something you don’t need, only to find that it’s out of stock. You should have been one of the first five people in line who were camped out since the night before if you wanted to get that deal. Even if you do get there early enough, how many hours of your life have you wasted waiting? Plus, “special sales” will be running all month. Friday is just the hype.

From my experience, you can easily buy a really cheap tv or computer, but that’s what you will get, a really cheap tv or computer. If you need large electronics, you are better off doing some research, checking reviews and pricing and buying a quality item that will last longer and have all the features you want and may need in the future.

Here’s another trick. Many stores will offer special discounts that last only a few hours. Major retailers have spent many years and millions of dollars in research on human nature and shopping trends to figure out how to get you to buy more. If you can save and extra 25% from 5am to 9am, you will spend more than 25% extra on things you didn’t know you needed. You are tired, or wired on coffee and stressed out and will get caught up in the frenzy these stores create. Uncle Fred doesn’t really need the rainbow gloves and hat, even if it’s 50% off.

Do your holiday shopping the right way. Make a list of the people for whom you want to get gifts. Now, make a budget. Think carefully about each person and decide what to buy. Shop online and use discounts where you can. I use Ebates for savings and search engines for research. Then, when I find the item at the best price, I search for coupon codes. Sometimes it’s easier and cheaper to buy at the physical store, or you just want that Christmas shopping tradition. Stay away from the big box stores and malls and look at Thrift shops, Antique stores and local boutiques. You can find high quality items and some really good deals. Another bonus, you’ll be supporting charity and small businesses. If someone on your list is brand conscious, or for last minute gifts, try Marshalls or TJ Max. Not sure what to get? Check here for some easy ideas.

You’ll be less stressed and your gift recipients will notice the extra attention.

The iPad 3 is coming!

Yes, the iPad 3 is coming out, so is the iPhone 5 and a new updated Macbook Air. When is anybody's guess, but we all know they are going to be announced eventually.

I've been asked a few times, recently, about wether to buy a computer, ipad, iphone, etc. or wait until the new version comes out. No matter what you buy or when, there will always be a better, faster and cooler update that comes out right after you buy it. I recommend buying the latest you can afford when you actually need it. Is your iPhone 3gs working fine? Keep it until it doesn't work, then buy the latest version you can. Who knows, by then the iPhone 5 might be available. Is your laptop failing? Get the best you can afford now. You could wait until the next version comes out, but since there is always a next version, you will wait forever.

I found a quote from The Apple Blog that sums it up perfectly:

"The best gadget in any given category is the one that you can use right now, in terms of most people’s needs."

Spendthrift Spouse

What do you do when all your money saving strategies are being sabotaged by your spouse or partner?

You are doing everything you can to save money. You’ve made a budget, reduced expenses, cut back wherever you can only to find your dear one has used the credit or debit card, or spent money on things you didn’t plan for or you think are frivolous.

First, take a look at what you’re goals are. Are you are trying to gain control of unruly finances? Are you saving for a specific reason, like a new house or vacation or are you suddenly forced to make cutbacks from job loss or other major change in your income? Make a simple financial overview. Write down on paper your income, expenses and where the shortfall is.

Now set some time aside to talk about it; not during the big game or favorite tv show, or date night either. Pick a time when you and your partner are not tired, a weekend afternoon perhaps. Find someplace away from the kids or other distractions.

Next, be honest. Show them your written budget and discuss what you are doing and why. It’s much easier to see on paper. Many times when one person handles the finances, the other has no idea what’s really happening. Don’t be threatening or accusing. Explain that this takes both of you and ask for their “help”. Try to set a goal together. Listen to what they have to say. Negotiate if necessary. You might be willing to cut back on the coffee shop if they agree to take lunch to work a few days a week. Make sure you include some discretionary spending in your budget. It gives you both a sense of freedom but keeps you from surprises. Give your spouse a specific amount of cash each week, to spend as they please, no judgement from you.

Finally, if all else fails, you may need to get professional help. (couples counseling, not those awful credit counselors). Whatever you do, don’t let money problems fester. It will only hurt your relationship.

The Rule of Half

One of the easiest ways to save money and use less is to try cutting things in half. You will be surprised at how much you overuse when you start this process. One of my favorite books, The Tightwad Gazette, mentions this idea and I’ve been using it ever since I read about it.

Take whatever you are about to use and cut it in half. My first attempt was with dryer sheets. I started tearing the dryer sheets and using only half a sheet per load. I found that there is no difference in the result compared to a whole sheet. That was easy so I tried it with laundry detergent. Again, success! Next, shampoo, toothpaste and other personal items worked well. Automatic dishwasher detergent did not work with less. I still fill the cup, but I did find the store brand works just as well as the pricier stuff. Sugar in my coffee and butter on my toast worked well by using half and are probably better for my health too.

On the subject of food, look at the serving sizes. Start measuring out the serving sizes and you will be surprised at how much you over use. Creamer in the coffee is one that shocked me. I measured out a tablespoon and it is much less than the amount I was using. I tried using less coffee but I have to draw the line there.

Use your judgement, of course. Do NOT try this with prescription medicine, but do this with mundane things and see what happens.

Clear out the Clutter

Apartment therapy’s 20/20 Home Cure episode today got me started in clearing out the bookshelf but I took it a bit further. Instead of just clearing out the books I went for the whole office. 

The best way to clear out a room is to do exactly that. Empty it completely. Remove anything you can, leaving only the bare furniture, shelves and walls.  Arrange the furniture in a way that opens up the room and provides the functionality you really need.

Once its empty, think about the purpose of the room. Visualize what this room should look like and what you really want in it. Now, start putting things back. Only put back the items that are useful, aesthetically pleasing and have a purpose there. The purpose may just be that you like it but think in terms of the perfect room.

Once you have only what you really want in the room, take everything left outside and put it away. Not sure how to deal with what’s left outside? Make three boxes: another room, donate and out. No boxes? Don’t loose momentum here. Trash bags or even piles will work, just don’t bring it back in the room. If it belongs in another room, put it there, if it’s broken or useless, throw it out/recycle it. If it can be used, donate it or put it in a box to go out and give it away.

Every time you walk into this room you will feel good.

Holidays on the cheap

I know you will see a million articles and blogs on how to do things for the holidays in frugal ways. Here are the ones I’ve found to work without making all your gifts out of used potholders.

Holiday Meals: If you have a large gathering, or even a small one, ask each of your guests to bring their favorite or “specialty” dish. It’s not wrong to ask what they’re bringing or suggest a dish. “Aunt Mabel, everyone loves your pecan pie, would you consider one for this year?” That way you don’t have four string bean casseroles. Planning ahead is also important. Look at the store specials and buy what you can on sale. Frozen turkey, thawed in the fridge three days beforehand is way cheaper than a fresh one. If you’re not a traditionalist or having just the family, consider a chicken or just the turkey breast, or not a turkey at all. If you are really strapped, and invited somewhere else, accept the invitation and ask what you can bring.

Christmahanakwanzika: Okay it’s Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza put together, but it is gift giving season no matter what. Among our friends I’ve told them we are just giving to the children this year. Most parents do appreciate this and are happy to save a bit of money too. You can still give a card addressed to the family.

If someone’s having a party, it’s customary to come with a hostess gift. These are easy, a few pretty soaps, dollar store ones are nice enough wrapped with rolled wash cloths and a ribbon are a nice gift. Use a pretty leaf or twine for festive additions to the wrapping. Baby gifts like bibs or a plush toy or rattle are easy to find in most places. For small children 3 to 6 year olds, a couple of match box cars, or dress up toys are great from the dollar store.  7 to 12 year olds: playing cards like uno or old fashioned gifts like yo yo’s, paddle balls or a small box of legos can be found cheaply. Over 12 is a bit tougher. If you’re not absolutely sure, stay away from the latest trends. Chances are the trend is old by the time you know about it. This age group is picky. I hit the office supply store:  a new set of earphones, a usb drive in a fun shape or color, cool pens, pads, journals etc. The dollar section at Target is a good place for this but you have to have some discipline to stay away from the rest of the store.

Office exchange: While your at the office supply store, get a good deal on some nice pen sets. If you are really broke, a mug from the dollar store with some tea or hot chocolate pack with a ribbon is always your best bet.

Don’t forget the thrift shop. There are always nice candle holders, dishes and mugs for super cheap. Buy a few pretty china dishes and then bring cookies, brownies or other food gifts. It’s a great place for baskets too. I’ve found so many name brand dishes from noritake to crate and barrel. You will be surprised.

Sunday morning ritual

My favorite Sunday morning. It's early. Everyone is still sleeping and the house is quiet. I tip toe into the kitchen to make coffee. I use the French press so I dont make too much noise. Coffee in hand, I set it down by my favorite cushy couch and head outside to get the paper, cold and barefoot. I find my spot on the couch and spend the morning reading the paper cover to cover. The Miami Herald when I was young, the Washington Post later on, then the Union tribune. It didn't matter, just me, the peace and quiet, my hot coffee and a portal into the rest of the world.

Wait! That used to be my favorite Sunday morning. I still make my coffee and creep quietly to my favorite spot, only I no longer get the paper. I read all my favorite news and blogs on the iPad. I like skipping the cold sidewalk and wet plastic sleeve on the news. I like not having to remove the sports section to get to the editorials. I like that I can sit and drink my coffee without newsprint on my hands and cup.

I now read: USA Today and Google News, The Washington post, Unplggd, Facebook, Twitter and a few others, all aggregated in flip board. It looks a bit like my familiar newspaper, but without the trip to the recycle bin when I'm done.

Get Support!

Your friends or family may be influencing your spending. If you are spending, shopping, eating out too often, etc. Look at the reasons. Are you keeping up with the Joneses? Are your friends spendthrifts? Are they in debt too? Are you looking to fill a void in your life? Is it an emotional release? Associate yourself with people who have the same intentions; Living within their means. Talk to your spouse, family and friends and include them in this process. The more support you have, the better.

Find inspiration on the Internet as well. Subscribe to money saving newsletters. http://www.stretcher.com and http://www.thefrugallife.com both have great and inspiring newsletters and forums to meet other people who are living within their means. Join in on frugal and money saving forums. Watch out for get-rich-quick schemes. They will never make you money.

Of all the books I read, I have found two of them to be most helpful. The first book is “Your money or your life”. As with any self-help book, you will find points in this one that no longer make sense in our economy. However, the first few chapters are eye opening. Changing your view of money is critical in changing your financial picture. The second is “The tightwad gazette” this one is fun to read from cover to cover. It’s full of great tips and stories to keep you motivated. I don’t rewash plastic Baggies, but I love the pizza dough recipe and it’s written in an easy to read manner.

One last thought; everyone has an opinion, advice, tricks and tips to help you. Pick and choose what works for you. Not everything will be right for everyone. You control your own destiny and financial future. The hardest part is to get started.

iTunes fail, UGH!

Sunday afternoon, the whole family is at home, relaxing.

I rarely download any movies from iTunes. Usually, I can find what I want on Netflix or cable. The family room TV was in use and my daughter wasn't feeling well. She really wanted this movie and it wasn't on Netflix, so I thought, "Easy enough, I'll download it from iTunes and she can watch it on the computer."

I started the download in iTunes and it seemed to be going fine. I know you can watch it as you're downloading so I clicked play. After about ten minutes, just as she was getting into the movie, the whole mac froze; I mean, no keyboard, mouse or anything. My only choice was the button in the back.

I restarted the computer and opened iTunes to find that the movie was not there, it was not available in the "purchases" and if you click Store, Check for available downloads, it wasn't there either.

After some research, (google, apple support pages, etc.) I found that my only hope was to "report a problem" on the Account, Purchased section. This lead to an automated email that said my problem would be addressed within 48 to 72 hours.

Now, if you're downloading a movie, it's an impulse buy. You want to watch it right then.  I can re download all kinds of media in iTunes, except movies. I will probably not do this again.

The final result was an email stating that Apple had reset my download and I could re download anytime. By then, it was the next day and my daughter was in school. The movie was now irrelevant. Bummer.