Choosing Friends Wisely: From Bank To Bankruptcy

I have a friend, who I've known for a long time. For the sake of concealing identities, I will identify her in today's blog post as 'Princess.'

My friend is smart and funny, and makes a great first impression. There's just one thing about her that makes it a good thing we don't hang out much anymore. She spends money like water.

I think she has it to spend, BUT. I don't know how much she saves. I'm sure she would tell you she takes full advantage of shopping the sales. Whether or not those shopping trips are necessary? Well, that's another story.

Her wardrobe and jewelry? Second to none. Purses and shoes? Beautiful. House? Large and well furnished. Both she and her husband drive expensive cars (but, 'they're not brand new.'). As an added bonus, Princess can justify every single purchase.

What's the biggest danger in having a friend like Princess? You can be perfectly content and happy with your lot in life. Spend a little time with royalty, and slowly, quietly, almost undetectably.......you start to want the same things.

Your purse was perfectly fine until you went out to lunch with Princess. Then, right before your eyes, that same handbag had several flaws that made you start thinking about replacing it. With something 3 times more expensive.

Your little house is cozy and furnished just the way you like it. Until you pay a visit to Princess. All of a sudden, YOU want state of the art surround sound, the latest coffee maker, and art work that cost a hair more than the 'starving artist' special that graces your couch. Having a cleaning lady like Princess starts to sound pretty darn attractive, too.

Just having a converation with Princess can be revealing. Almost every single sentence is punctuated with what she wants to buy next. How she's going to redo her bedroom, again. Her next vacation (never mind the last one was a month ago). She's warm and witty and smells really good, so why WOULDN'T your brain be beguiled into thinking these whims of hers could be replicated in your own life?

SNAP OUT OF IT, THRIFTNERD!!

We know life is more than possessions and constant shopping at the mall. We have dreams and goals that require us to be frugal with our funds. I'm not saying get rid of Princess as a friend, but you might want to limit the time you spend with her. Instead, seek out those who have similar finances and spend accordingly. It's like when you're watching your weight. You don't want to go out to eat regularly with folks who consume 3 times their body weight in food at one sitting. It's better to nosh on veggies and fruit with friends who are as serious about weight loss as you are. They are good examples for you.

Here's an example from my own life: my brother and his family live out in the country (way, WAY out). They are homeschoolers and survivalists. Their lives revolve around gardening, canning, raising livestock, and saving as much money as possible. Guess what kind of friends they hang out with? Folks with the same interests and pursuits. It just makes sense. They recently started buying rental property, and fixing it up to become landlords. You can bet, they'll make friends with those who are also rental property owners.

So, send Princess a Christmas card. See her when she comes into town, and do the same when you travel her way. But, before you do, give yourself a reality check.

Don't be blinded by the bling.

What Not To Wear: Good Sense Behind The Snark

Top: Clinton and Stacy deal with a guest's unfortunate 'before' wardrobe in the dreaded '360'

Bottom: Clinton and Stacy's shock over another successful transformation

Ever watch "What Not To Wear?" The popular program enjoyed a 10 year run (2003-2013) on TLC. Hosts Clinton Kelly and Stacy London, both fashion insiders, took ordinary folks badly in need of makeovers and totally transformed them. Friends and family members nominated loved ones who gave their all to everyone else, but placed themselves at the bottom of the priority list, for a $5000 shopping spree, hairstyle and makeup sesh. I watched regularly, and had several loved ones in mind that I wanted desperately to nominate. I couldn't do it, as it was often humiliating to watch.

Reality TV being what it is, Clinton and Stacy would surprise their intended 'victim' in a public setting, then proceed to drag out several weeks of secret tapes, showing the absolute worst of the poor person's wardrobe faux pas. Cringing yet? How about when they flew the guest out to NYC with their old wardrobe, then made them hang it all up, model it, listen while they criticized it, and threw everything into a garbage can? Tears were often the next step along THAT crimson path.

The show then followed the guest as they attempted to spend the $5000 on a completely new, flattering wardrobe. Often, they were unable to remember all the new guidelines set down for shopping, so the second day Clinton and Stacy showed up to help. They got everything tailored, their hair did and their face painted, and VIOLA! Absolute perfection! They proudly modeled several new outfits, much to the happy gasps and exclamations from Clinton and Stacy. The show's crowning touch was a huge reveal before friends and family at a restaurant or other big venue. Where once they were on display in shame, now they shine like a fashionable star.

Happily ever after? Well, if they remember the rules that Clinton and Stacy set before them, yes.

Now, I realize watching people be humiliated by snarky hosts isn't everyone's cup of tea. I don't appreciate that kind of entertainment, as I am a highly empathetic person, and can't help but put myself in the victim/guest's shoes. However, I saw enough of Clinton and Stacy's true colors to see that the show had tremendous merit. In real life, they are humble, sweet folks, with enough baggage of their own to keep their egos in check. Stacy, in particular, wrote a wonderful book (The Truth About Style, 2013) in which she transparently revealed her struggles with eating and skin disorders. They both genuinely want to help others put their best foot forward, fashion wise.

So, what can we, the unwashed masses, take from 'What Not To Wear?' Personally, the show was the eye opener I needed to start making more of an effort with my appearance. For years, I had been your basic 'jeans and t-shirt' gal (often overalls.......that makes my daughter shudder), and I needed to step things up a tad. Nothing wrong with jeans or t-shirts, you understand, but everything has it's time and place. Dressing up a bit, I found folks took me more seriously. There is such a thing as comfortable AND pulled together, and I now have outfits that can be worn in a variety of different situations.....and be perfectly appropriate in all.

Granted, the clothing bought on 'What Not To Wear' was expensive, often designer, and the show's guests were treated to custom tailoring on all wardrobe items, making each fit like a glove. I took what I learned from the show, and applied it to my thrift and discount store shopping. I learned that you can never underestimate the power of the proper underwear (all hail a correctly sized and fitted bra!) Plus, I learned that even ordinary folks can take advantage of a tailor or expert seamstress! These are things I never would have known had I not watched the show. Knowing to buy something in a bigger size than I normally wear, and having a tailor custom fit to my body, was a revelation.

Nothing would make Clinton and Stacy happier, than to know their tips for 'what not to wear' were implemented by the folks at home :)

Coincidence?

Goodwill is starting to get picked clean.

At first, I thought it was a fluke. I went a couple times, and couldn't find a thing. That happens occasionally. But, to have it happen 2 times in a row was weird. Then, Claire and I went together. Same thing. Both of us found small items, but still, it was very odd not to find goodies like we usually do. Everything left in the store seemed........tired. You know, like you'd find at a THRIFT STORE :X.

Today, I went to another Goodwill. One that (usually) has a higher percentage of designer goods and high end stuff. Same thing......old, out of date, yuck.

It may sound egotistical, but I think you guys are listening. I think you're thrifting more and more, and that's why the shelves are empty. Hey, it's as good a reason as any, right?

Just remember to donate what you don't need anymore. Erin and Claire need some successful resale shopping therapy.

Toiletries Of The Aging Thriftnerd: Toothcare

Are you tired of this series yet? Well, good news! Today's our final installment! I would probably be more timely, if I didn't have to work for a living :P

Taking care of your teeth in a frugal manner is almost 100% preventative. In other words, you need to head off dental problems before they show up. Most of the time, you can.

I have two kids, and they both got the exact same dental care growing up. Brendan has never had a cavity, and his teeth are perfectly straight, naturally. Claire has had cavities her whole life, did the $4000 round of braces, and wears a mouth guard at night for TMJ. She takes better care of her teeth, and yet, this recent trip to the dentist revealed 3 more cavities. Sigh.

Well, when you grow up with absolutely no dental problems, you tend to get a bit lazy. Kind of like growing up without a weight problem: you eat what you want with no fear of repercussions.

Brendan had to pay the piper this past year. After several years of no dental appointments, he went to a new dentist in Canton, only to find out he had periodontal disease, which necessitated painful scraping under his gums and a prescription rinse, all to the tune of over $900. Ouch. Of course, this happened before he was eligible for dental care through his employer. Having had quite a scare, Brendan must now floss, brush and rinse well every single day, and schedule regular dental appointments, for the rest of his life. We got him a very nice electric toothbrush for Christmas.

Claire must ALSO floss, brush and rinse well every single day, just to keep her problematic teeth from getting worse. No traisping off to bed with unbrushed teeth for either one of my precious gems.

We all know flossing is a pain, but neglecting to do so results in even bigger pain! I didn't start flossing regularly myself, until I was in my late 30's and going through a divorce. I had always had dental insurance and regular dental care throughout my childhood and first marriage, but facing the possiblity of not being insured when I became single, I started flossing every night. It has made a huge difference, and I know the problems I HAVE had could have been worse had I not been so diligent.

Both Crest and Colgate have come out with new toothpaste and rinse combos. Far from being just another marketing scheme, they really work! Dentists can tell if you use the rinse, paste and floss routine! Another integral part of good toothcare: get yourself an electric toothbrush! You don't have to go all out and buy the $100 plus models; the $5-on up disposables really pack a punch. They are great for ridding your teeth of plaque.

How long should you brush? Two minutes at least. Pay attention especially to the backsides of your very last tooth on both upper and lowers. They do the most work chewing, and because they are so hard to reach, they get neglected, and more often than not, they're the teeth that get infected and pulled. If you have an electric toothbrush, they are especially effective in getting those hard to reach teeth.

Ok, so we've covered the basics. Now, what about whitening? You've asked at a very good time! At home whitening kits are effective and much cheaper than the dentist's version, which can run $500 and up. An average of $30 is what you might spend for the DIY kits. I've used them twice, and they are great! They don't taste all that great, but it's a temporary thing........2 weeks of daily whitening treatments can yield almost a year of pearly white teeth.

Doing as much preventative care as possible can eliminate a lot of dental problems. However, like with Claire, sometimes your best just isn't good enough. Unfortunately, you can't shop around for cheap dental care that's also good. Our family had several bad experiences with a dental chain that supposedly saved us money, but the care was dangerous and substandard. Ask around for a good, caring dentist. Also, look into dental insurance if you can. That monthly investment will pay off when it's needed (just ask Brendan!).

So, to sum up today's blog:

Never go to bed with unbrushed teeth!
Always floss daily (at least once a day)
Use the floss, brush, rinse 3 step punch!
Blow everyone away with your DIY whites!
Ask around for a good dentist, and utlize dental insurance if you can.

And, smile, darn it!

The High Price Of Athletic Shoes

These are my brand new New Balance workout shoes. Paying for them ticked me off.

I have looked for months for a brand new pair of workout shoes second hand. They ARE to be had. I have seen and bought them in the past. This time, however, that fabulous deal eluded me. So, I resorted to shopping for a brand new pair on the clearance rack.

I found these lovely green and turquoise beauties at Meijer for $34.50. They were regularly priced at $69. SIXTY NINE DOLLARS!!! Why? Will they also wash my car and do my laundry?

I learned about 5 years ago that New Balance work the best with my feet. So, that's the brand I buy. It's honestly better than buying a no name brand with no cushioning or support. My last pair of NB not only wore like iron, but they also washed in numerous bleach loads and came back looking spotless. Even when I started wearing them to the shop.

So, if I were to be completely honest with myself, I would do the math. Say I bought that last pair for $50. I wore them every day to work for several years. That results in about 96 cents per week, for at least a year. Since I had them longer than that, the outlay went down even more. Ok, that helps.

I guess it's that initial shock of paying so much upfront, and that's why I try hard to find name brand goods second hand. If your kid runs track, you wouldn't believe the like new pairs of cleats I see at Goodwill every single time I go.

I know I run the risk of losing a good deal of my readers when I talk about second hand shoes. There's a real 'ick' factor involved for some folks. Here's what I do: buying name brand, good quality shoes at a thrift store, means I can take them home and run them through a scalding hot, bleach load in my washer. Superior quality ensures that they will come out perfectly fine. Added bonus? You paid $4.99 for them resale, so you can afford to play a little laundry roulette.

When I buy anything second hand, I am beyond thorough when checking them out. Seeing how much wear there is, checking out the inside to make sure everything is still stitched and where it belongs. Making sure the soles aren't sloped (huge sign of too much wear).

It seems to be much easier to find heels or other kinds of footwear second hand. People tend to hang onto their athletic shoes longer. However, like I said, I have found great deals. Brands I otherwise wouldn't have been able to afford, like that fabulous pair of K-Swiss back when Claire was a baby. I loved those things right to the garbage can.

I am just getting back into working out, 4 months after my hysterectomy. These brand new NBs won't do the work for me, but they'll sure help.

At $34.50, if I wear them at least 5 times a week, their final financial outlay will be mere pennies :)

Being A Packrat Pays Off

I am not a immaculate homemaker. We don't have corn growing in the dust in the corners of the house, but we also have 7 pets, so some days it's a total wash as I chase hairballs around, and clean up cat vomit. We need to replace our living room furniture, as our baby kitties endlessly 'christened' it, and we can't seem to get it cleaned. Needless to say, I don't judge others for their housekeeping skills, or lack thereof.

Clutter drives me bat crap crazy, but I do have my stacks lying around. Sometimes it's nothing more than garbage that needed to be recycled a looooong time ago, but other stacks are necessary (FAFSA prep for Claire is staring me in the face. KNOCK THAT OFF!).

And then, there's my blessed hubby's stacks. And stacks. And STACKS.

We have a full garage and basement. Michael never throws anything away if he doesn't have to. While I'm not enamored of the heaps, I have been shown time and time again that keeping things can pay off big sometimes.

Case in point: I gave Michael a new, large crockpot for Christmas. Earlier this week, I accidently knocked the lid off the counter, and shattered the plastic knob. Boy, was I steamed. Crockpot replacement lids can often run as much $$$ as a crockpot!

Michael came downstairs to see what all the hollering and stomping around was about. Immediately a plan started forming in his brain. He ran out to his workbench in the garage, and came back with an extra kitchen knob, from when we remodeled the kitchen years ago. I had no idea we had extras!

He brought the knob to work, bored out the hole, scavanged up the necessary inner workings, and VOILA! A crockpot lid that once again functions in it's intended role. All for free, thanks to a resourceful husband who is handier than anything. And, never throws anything away.

By the way, I was warned that, if I dropped the lid THIS time, the heavy replacement knob would shatter the lid. In other words, be careful, wife!

In closing, I need to issue a disclaimer over yesterday's 'haircare' addition of the blog. Our mission statement is always to show folks how to do it for less, NOT to give the impression that we have it all together and are all that. We know we aren't the be all end all last word in thrift. We just want to share our experiences :)

Toiletries Of The Aging Thriftnerd: Haircare

I left the 'aging' in the today's blog post title, but we'll do a bit of talking about my dear daughter's hair, too, and she's nowhere near aging!

You know how the older generation just loves to say, 'back in my day!' or, 'you guys have NO idea how good you have it!' Well, I can honestly say this applies to haircare. In the almost 50 years of my life, I have seen such changes, particularly in the area of home haircolor and conditioning. Where once we had to strictly rely on going to a salon for top quality products, now we can often find just as good product over the counter.

That being said, I will start this off by saying, NOTHING will replace a good haircut. There are many ways to save money, but if you want to look current and stay on top of those pesky split ends, do yourself a favor and find a great hairstylist, and quit crying over the cost. Hey, if it's so easy to do, CUT YOUR OWN!

Then, Instagram the results. Snort.

If you want healthy hair, you need to take care of it. You need to keep it trimmed. You need the proper shampoo and conditioner for your hair type. You need the right brush. And, you need to make sure you're using the right haircolor and treatments. It's worth taking the extra time to do your research and make sure you're buying the right stuff. The payoff? Beautiful, lustrous locks.

I used to use whatever I could find in the way of brushes and combs. One was as good as another, right? Actually, no. Especially since my hair is color treated, I needed to find a brush that was gentle. The boar bristle brushes are truly kind to your hair. So, are the brushes with widely spaced bristles. You want to eliminate the chance of snagging and breaking your precious strands, so choose wisely. I also use a special comb made just for combing out wet hair after shampooing. Just using those two tools have made a huge difference in the quality of my hair.

After shampooing, I do very little blow drying. Color treated and dry, my hair needs every break I can give it. I only blow dry my crown and bangs, using a round, natural bristled styling brush. I dry it to the 'just damp' stage. I also only wash my hair two times a week. It's amazing, as we age, how little we need to cleanse those follicles!

If you're my age, I recommend a hairstyle that takes minimal heat styling. The first day after I shampoo, I do the whole 9 yards as far as straightening and curling. Then, on the days after that, my style needs very little upkeep. I have long layers that hold their shape nicely. I will wash my hair tonight, but this morning, as I was getting ready for work, I bent over, touseled my hair with my fingers, smoothed it out a bit, and sprayed it. I use Elnett spray, which at $13.99 is NOT a bargain price, but it is gentle on my hair, doesn't feel sticky, yet holds exactly as I like it. I consider that a bargain!

As far as shampoo and conditioner, I like the Pantene line a lot. I use the Pantene Intense Moisture conditioner. For shampoo, Sally Beauty has their ION line of products, and I'm using their Intense Moisture shampoo. L'Oreal does a great job of putting coupons in the Sunday paper for their products, so I can always find one when I'm needing Pantene. I belong to the Sally Beauty Club, which for $5 a year, I get discounts every time I buy something, not to mention emails and special gifts. We seem to be going to Sally more and more, as Claire will be starting cosmetology school in a less than a year (ZOINKS!) and she's always wanting to check out the makeup and haircare products. She uses the Biotera line for shampoo and conditioner. At $6.99 and $10.99, Sally's shampoos and conditioners are much less than the usual salon product, yet are just as superior.

I have been coloring my hair since high school. I remember being a freshman, and having my mom pull my hair through those little bitty holes in the color cap when I wanted 'frosted' waves. Oh, the pain we endured! When I was a senior, I decided I had had enough of my ashy, mousy brown haircolor, and asked my mom to make me a blonde! I have been 'augmenting' my haircolor ever since. In the old days, when you colored your own hair, the consistency was like that of a Barbie's hair.....strange and stiff. Going to have my hair professionally highlighted eliminated that, but it was also much pricier. I paid as high as $150 for professional highlights (ah, the good old days???).

During my divorce, I could no longer get my hair colored professionally, so good ol' mom came to my rescue. I started using L'oreal Preference, and it's truly a superior product. One box every 3-4 weeks keeps my roots in good shape. Because I use blonde, it's unnecessary to color my whole head, and it's much easier on my ends when I don't. Blonde doesn't fade like other colors, and even though it's not peroxide based, it's still harsh on my hair, so not coloring my whole head helps a great deal. You can also coat your ends in conditioner when you color, for extra protection.

After coloring, I try to wait at least 4 days before shampooing.

My darling Claire seems to be following in mom's footsteps, as far as coloring her hair in high school, but she goes for sexy, vixen red! The L'Oreal Feria Intense color every 4 weeks does the trick. Red DOES fade, so for that added oomph, we do Claire's whole head (yes, I color it, I'm paying it forward from my mom!). Since she still has oily hair, she must wash it every night, but she waits at least 2 days before washing after applying color. She also watches the heat styling, often opting for free, natural waves, or putting it up into a cute topknot. You can get away with that when you're young :P

Both Claire and I receive compliments on our color, so we must be doing something right! I don't claim to be an expert, but after a lifetime of playing around and finding the right products for my 'do, I think I've finally nailed it. Claire wears her hair very long, but she swears by regular trims to get rid of the crispy split ends. Especially after a play or musical, where she must subject her hair to nightly torture sessions with 1000's of bobby pins and about a ton of Aquanet!

I am looking forward to my darling daughter's foray into cosmetology. I'm sure we will both benefit from some added, professional advice!

'We Can't Afford It!'

I know I have posted about this before, but it bears repeating. A LOT. Seems daily I hear 'I can't afford that!'

Now, this can be a legitimate statement. If you live close to the poverty line, you truly can't afford things. I'm not talking to those folks at all. The rest of us need to change our wording.

It takes awareness of priorities.

I'll use Michael and I as an example. We have two older cars. Michael drives a 2004 Dodge Ram, and I have a 2002 Honda Accord. Both vehicles were paid for in cash, and bought used. They're fabulous vehicles, but they're getting up there in years and mileage. Should someone say, 'you're needing to buy new cars,' it would be an easy, pat answer to retort, 'we can't afford new cars!'

In reality, we probably can, BUT. Our priorities lie in a different area. We are more concerned with getting our last kiddo graduated, and pay off some medical bills. We're still trying to get things situated after my lengthy time off for surgery. We don't have the cash on hand to buy new vehicles, and we're lacking the room in the budget for car payments, at this time. So, we take extra good care of the car and truck, and maybe someday, we'll be in better shape financially to replace them.

Do you see what I just did? I owned up. Instead of copping the 'we can't afford it.'

It shouldn't be such an issue with me, but it is. I guess it's because I hear far too many people whine and complain about not being able to 'afford' things, and then doing something like taking a tropical cruise. Buying an expensive car. Building a McMansion. All the while, crabbing about having to buy groceries for their kids, or pay for them to go to a certain school, or just basically providing what a parent needs to provide.

I'm pretty sure I'm not speaking to a majority of you, but there may be a few who need to step back, and own up.

So, if you find yourself getting upset about paying for the basics of life, yet go out to eat often, buy designer goods at full price, and spend every spring break someplace warm........be honest.

You can afford it. It's a question of priorities.

Toiletries Of The Aging Thriftnerd: Nail Care

I'll try not to belabor things in today's post, as long time readers of my blog are well aquainted with the angst of this writer regarding her nails. Some expensive luxuries were very easy for me to give up, others not so much, and this is one of them. I love having my nails and feet pampered, it's truly one of life's finest pleasures. It's also pretty pricey, considering you need to have it done every other week.

And therein lies the rub: when you're counting every penny, you get an ulcer every time you break one of your professionally manicured nails. I see enough dollar signs going 'bye bye'......I don't need more!

So, what can you do? You like the look of well groomed nails? Well, do them yourself!

First of all, I can't stress enough how valuable YouTube tutorials are for any and all makeup and nailcare instruction. You can find step by step videos on how to give yourself a perfect manicure at home. Whereas we once had to swallow hard and buy those inocuous yellow and black 'For Dummies' books, now we can anonymously search for cuticle softening and removal in the privacy of our own, beauty challenged homes :P

Like long nails? Well, unless your nails are as thick as steel pipe, I'd go short. Keep them shaped and well groomed, and short nails go with everything. Get in the habit of carrying around a good quality emery board (the big ones can be had at the dollar store)and you're set whenever you hit a snag (literally). Do NOT try to cut off your cuticles. You risk infection and lots of unnecessary pain. Instead, buy cuticle remover at Sally Beauty, and make soaking your cuticles part of your nailcare routine. Be sure to follow the directions and get every last drop of the remover off before you go onto the next step.

Once you've filed and shaped your nails, and softened up your cuticles, you're set to polish them up. If you're wanting the most impact with the least amount of work, buy a buffer (also Sally or the dollar store) and buff your nails to a splendid shine. Those having no splitting or peeling nails can do this with ease. If you like the bare look, but DO have an issue with breakage, check out Sally Hansen Hard As Nails, or Miracle Cure. They can be worn by themselves, or I use them as a topcoat over polish with great success. In fact, I'm on my second week using the Miracle Cure over my nude polish, and am just today seeing a crack here and there. That, my friends, is a successful home manicure :)

Do you prefer colored polish? There are several over the counter brands that have staying power. Revlon is always a good, well priced brand for polish. They have a high color turnover, so once you find a favorite, you might want to stock up! Claire and I also love Essie brand. We like it better than the hugely hyped OPI. We've found Essie at Meijer and Kohl's......with the latter having the biggest variety of colors.

Once you've put on a coat or two, seal it with a topcoat of something clear. Leave a little time in between coats to make sure it sets up a bit. After you're done, spray your nails with a 'quick dry' spray, or run your nails under cold water. Both will help to set your polish on top, but allow a couple hours for thorough drying all the way through. Be patient, and don't do your nails an hour before a big date or event.

If you do your nails before bed, and wake up in the morning with 'blanket prints' on your nails, a quick coat of clear will renew your 'just polished' beauty.

If you're like me, and get polish on your cuticles, dip a cotton swab in polish remover and clean it up. Make sure to dab Aquaphor around your cuticles as often as you can, like before bed. This winter has given me snaggy cuticles like you wouldn't believe, and Aquaphor has helped a great deal.

I would never tell you what color to wear on your nails, but here's a bit of advice from a girl with very lined fingers.......darker colors tend to bring any imperfection or age out more than if you go natural or with a nude polish. I have to save my wild, dark colors for my toes!

Ok.....what if you say, 'this is all well and good, Erin. But I love the look of acrylic/gel nails. How can I duplicate THAT at home?' Well, you honestly can't 100%, but you can fake it well! Check out the press on nails at your drug or big box store. If you're a fan of the 'French manicure,' you have several brands to choose from. I was pleasantly surprised at the resilience of the new press ons. With good, firm application, you could easily wear a set for several days. For the budget minded prom goer, a set of press on nails will look just as good as a professional set, with the added bonus of not having to ruin your nails when you eventually have to take the suckers off.

There you have it! Tightwad advice for your pretty fingers and toes. It does take more time than if you just ran into the salon for some nail TLC......but it's a whole lot cheaper, too.

Toiletries Of The Aging Thriftnerd: Lip Care

When I was younger, I had nice, full, rose colored lips. That's one of the special gifts of youth.

As I've aged, the skin on my mouth has gotten drier, and......whiter? REALLY? Who wants white lips? I mean, NOT for Halloween!

When you're younger, and your lips are dry, you can just whip out your tube of Chapstick (if you can find it) and voila! Problem solved. Not so much when you're older.

For one thing, Chapstick can add your moisture back, but not your color. So, unless you want soft lips the color of Casper The Friendly Ghost, what are your alternatives?

I carry lipstick everywhere with me, but it's not the same, and the color (on the moisture wear lipstick, anyway) just doesn't stick around. It becomes annoying to reapply lipstick about every 15 minutes.

Revlon Lip Butter is about the closest compromise out there (budget speaking) for a successful cross between lip balm and lipstick. Alas, it too wears off way too fast.

I saw a commercial recently for Blistex Lip Vibrance. It's moisturizing lip balm, plus a hint of color, and SPF 15! At $2.99 a tube, a truly good deal......if it works.

I bought a tube this morning, and I am SOLD! Soft lips that stay soft, and color that harkens back to my teenage years! WOOT! Plus, you can reapply just like a Chaptick, and not every 15 minutes. The color and moisture last much longer.

My task for February will be getting a tube of this sweet stuff into every purse, pocket and place I haunt. It's that good. If Blistex would like reimburse me for my jubilent advertising, that's perfectly ok with me :)

Toiletries Of The Aging Thriftnerd: Skincare

Let me start out my blog today with a reinteration of thriftnerd's mission statement. We don't speak for those who spend without a thought. We speak for those who are on a tight budget, who have their priorities straight and would rather pay their bills on time and provide for their families than take a spa day or a exotic vacation......yet, in doing so, have no money for the things they themselves would love.

There is no reason these deserving folks can't have nice things, too. We just have to work harder to find the lesser priced alternatives. It's always worth it.

Besides, it's more important to have an adequately stocked emergency fund and provide for your children's education. If you're spending money like water and don't have either of those? Boy howdy.

This week, I'm writing a series of blogs on saving money in your personal care areas. Skincare, haircare, nailcare. These are the areas we let slide (I'm guilty too) when things are tight. The older we get, the more important it is to at least spend the minimum on personal upkeep. Besides, we mamas need to look put together when we go to school events. It's never a good sign when your kids are avoiding you in public.

At almost 50, I'm dealing with drier skin that needs hydration, even more so now in the winter. When you're my age, and your skin is dry, you look......OLDER. Sorry, there's really no nice way to say it.

Let's start with your insides. Preached about until our eyes glaze over, but totally necessary: DRINK LOTS OF WATER. Sure, pop tastes better, and often alcohol does, too, but what you put in the inside is reflected on the outside. Healthy, glowing skin is often the result of proper hydration. Coffee, pop, and tea are all dehydrating. I'm not saying cut out the fun stuff entirely, but just cut back. I have one cup of coffee in the morning, and rarely have caffeine any other time of the day. I used to drink a lot of Pepsi Next, but I don't keep it at home anymore, as I will be tempted to drink it instead of water. Don't like the taste of water? Put a few spritzes of lemon juice in it. I didn't think it would make a big difference, but it really does! I find I drink more that way!

Eat healthier food. Eat more greens. More fruits and veggies will result in a healthier complexion. It's far easier to eat a bag of chips, I know. Your skin will suffer if you make that choice over healthier options more often than not. Again, don't become a food monk. Chips, cookies and other yummy snacks can be enjoyed on a limited basis. Moderation, yo.

So, we're eating and drinking better. What about actual skincare?

Ladies, please don't sleep with your makeup on. I know for a fact it's far easier to fall into bed at the end of a very long day, without cleansing your face, but your skin will look far better if you take that extra time to remove the vestiges of your day. Baby wipes are fabulous for taking off makeup. They have made a real difference in how my face looks as opposed to leaving the gunk on overnight. Your skin needs to BREATHE, and it can't do so all clogged up with foundation.

There was a time when I could get away with plain old Ivory soap to cleanse my face. Now, I have to invest a little more. The Olay Regenerist line is a good, budget priced skincare line for those of us who don't have the $$$ to trot off to the Clinique counter. Shown above, my Olay Regenerist Exfoliating cleanser rocks for $6.99. The dollar store brush is my answer to a $150 Clairsonic cleansing system. I really, REALLY wanted one of those for a long time, and did an immense amount of research into them, but I'm a crusader for looking as good as I can on a budget, and so I picked a manual brush instead. I wet my face, rub my cleanser all over, and then do 20 seconds each with the brush on my forehead, nose, cheeks, chin and neck area. I do this 3 times a week, because more often will ravage your face. It is very important to exfoliate, as old skin cells will age you. Plus, I work in a lawnmower shop, amid the toxic smells of engine oil, carb cleaner, etc. That all needs to come off my face! Even if you're a stay at home mama, you need to exfoliate, too.

After cleansing, my older skin needs a good moisturizer. I don't dry my face, letting the skin drink in the moisture from my shower. At night, I apply Aquaphor Healing Ointment, especially under my eyes (carefully), and on my lips. In fact, I apply Aquaphor to my lips often during the day. It is a heavy cream that is better suited to drier skin. If you have an oily complexion, it will just clog your pores. Before makeup, I apply Gold Bond Ultimate Intensive Healing Cream. I put that on about 15 minutes before I start my makeup, to give it a chance to soak into my skin. It's lighter than the Aquaphor, but again, not for oily complexions.

To round out my 'age and budget appropriate' skincare advice, I recommend using Bare Minerals foundation. Now, it's not the most budget friendly makeup, BUT.....using the wrong foundation can really wreck your skin. If you use dollar store foundation and end up having to go to a dermatologist, it's not budget friendly! Taking better care of my skin, and budgeting a little more for skin friendly foundation, is a better course of action. Besides, Bare Minerals is light and really makes my older skin look luminescent. Avon makes a similar line.

Speaking of Avon, they are the only 'special order' makeup I will recommend on my blog. I have nothing against Mary Kay, Shaklee, Jafra, or Melaluca, but because I speak for those who are watching every penny, often these companies are too expensive for those on a tight budget. I respect their products, but they don't need my endorsement.

Along with proper diet, cleansing, moisturizing and makeup, older faces need to be especially vigilent when it comes to brow care and facial hair removal. My daughter, the aspiring cosmetologist, plucks my brows and my chin hair (yes, I have chin hair now!)for me. If you aren't blessed with such talented offspring, invest in a good magnifying mirror and do it yourself! They aren't that expensive. I recommend one with a light, as we with aging eyes need all the help we can get! You really can't neglect your brows. Nothing ruins a good makeup application more than stray hairs!

So, there you have it. The thrftnerd face over 40. These are just basic guidelines, but if you want to do a little more in depth research on budget friendly facial products and techniques, check out Youtube for a plethora of videos on just about anything beauty related. Plus, the fine ladies at Livingonadime.com have wonderful recipes for making your own facials and scrubs. I highly recommend them!

Don't let beautiful skin be the sole property of the well to do. With just a little effort, we budget minded beauties can enjoy healthy skin, too!

Can A Tightwad Eat Healthy?

Having had major surgery within the last few months, and also turning 50 (gulp) this year, it was inevitable that my attentions would turn to eating healthier. Spending my life eating at The Big Buffet, often without limits and abandon, is drawing to a close. I don't advocate cutting all gastric delights out of my life, but I do need to WATCH IT. A LOT.

Last year, I did do better in the healthy eating department. However, due to my health problems and the fact that I couldn't exercise, I packed on a serious amount of unwanted pounds. I don't have the best health background..........my father and grandfather were both diabetic, and there is more heart disease on both sides than some folks have. I honestly have no clue why I don't have high blood pressure or diabetes, especially at my age. My father was diagnosed as pre-diabetic at 40. His first heart attack was at 45.

Let me just state something that ticks me off. It's cheaper to eat junk than it is healthy, at least at first glance. That's why there's rampant obesity in this country. If you're hungry and watching your funds, and a bag of chips is a dollar, and a bushel of fresh spinach is $5.........yeah.

Let's think long range, Thriftnerd-herd. As with thrift shopping, you must plan ahead. It's the same with healthy eating. You can't just go to the grocery store without a plan. You must shop sales and do your homework. Some stores do a better job of putting healthy food on sale than others. Find those stores. Your wallet and your health will both be much appreciative.

Now, I know there are some twentysomethings (or younger) reading this blog. You say, 'I am at my optimum weight, and I eat Cheetos for breakfast every day! I do McDonald's several times a week, and my freezer is stocked with real, full fat and sugar ice cream. Yet, I'm in the best shape of my life! Besides, I HATE tomatoes.'

Well, congrats. You truly are living the dream. However, if you change your eating habits now, when your 40's hit, your belly gets jiggly and that scale isn't so forgiving, you will be miles ahead in the area of taking care of your health. I don't want you to cut out the fun stuff, though. Life without ice cream has no meaning. Just make better choices, trade some of the junk for healthier alternatives, and make those Cheetos a once a week treat.

I know it's not as convenient to eat healthier. It will pay off later in lower health care costs and less RXS for high cholesteral and sugar control. Just like thrift shopping saves your clothing budget, eating more fruits and veggies saves in the area of medical expenses.

By the way, I also wrote a dandy blog post last year about exercising and saving money. You CAN lose weight and get fit without an expensive gym membership.

Let's live 2014 healthy, wealthy and wise!

In Praise Of Short Nails

They don't look so bad........I guess :/

Besides the obvious health benefits of having my hysterectomy, I got 3 other nice 'bonuses'......my hair grew longer, my nails grew long and strong, and I lost some weight. BOOYA!

Well, a little over a month of being back to work, my hair is still nice and long. However, I gained back 2 pounds over the holiday season (even thought I don't eat as much as I used to, go figure), and all 10 of my nails snapped within 2 weeks of being back at the salt mines. Sigh. I really liked my long nails.

I have written before on this blog about the continuing battle I have with my nails. How I had gel nails for about 15 years, until the cost of monthly upkeep got outrageous. My nails aren't the thickest things, and now with our weather being THE MOST FABULOUS EVER (please read with sarcasm dripping)I'm also battling rough cuticles. Good times.

As I have filed my nails down, and continued to use Sally Hansen 'Hard As Nails' strengthener, and Aquaphor for my cuticles, I have discovered that short nails have their merits. Easier to type, easier to keep clean (I DO work in a lawnmower shop, lest anyone forget). Short nails seem to be in style now, too. Natural and not fussy? Who knew I was riding a trend?

I don't have the most delicate looking hands. I grew up envying girls who had unlined palms. Having long nails made me feel better about them......they took the focus off my flaws.

But, as in every other area of my life, I am bound and determined to find frugal alternatives that make me feel as good as the high priced perks. I don't have the luxury of just popping into a nail salon and having them do all the work, but I do have an easy chair in the front of the fire and the tv, and a table where I can keep my nail implements.

Life is all about the trade offs. I can live with this one :)

Too Early For Prom Shopping? NO!!!

This picture is of Claire, in 7th grade, getting ready to go to the Jingle Ball with some friends. Yes, this a thrifted, $9.99 gown, one of her first........and as long time, Thriftnerd readers know, definitely not her last!

We had a family birthday party last night, and several people asked Claire and I if we'd started shopping for her prom dress. We'd actually found it last July! I had said that, since it's her senior year, I wouldn't mind finding her a brand new dress, but we happened upon something perfect, second hand.........and it will be unveiled sometime in April :)

This brings me to an interesting question: when SHOULD you start shopping for prom? My answer: NOW!!

One of our recurrent themes on this blog is the importance of shopping ahead, if you desire the best deals and selection. Think the mall stores are picked clean a couple weeks before prom? Same goes for the thrift store! We Americans have a real 'last minute' mentality, and often it's to our detriment.

Since this is Claire's senior year, we have about 100 things going on in regards to what shapes and makes the last year of high school special. I try very hard to plan ahead, to avoid the last minute snarls. Having Claire's prom dress is a huge load off our shoulders, and allows us to shop for accessories at our leisure. At this pace, her ensemble will be a snap to finish. We also have the shoes, clutch and earrings.......however, should we find something better, there will still be time to swap things out.

So, if you're looking for something fun to do on a cold, snowy Winter's afternoon, grab a coffee and head on over to the thrift store.

Come prom season, you'll be so glad you did.

Give Until It Hurts........A Little

Purging your closet is a big topic on Thriftnerd. The less you own, the more you use of what you've got. Plus, donating helps others, and really.....isn't that what we like to think we're all about?

Ok. Say you've finished a good closet cleaning and purge. You believe you've given away every single item that you don't need or want.

Now, I want you to step back, and be completely honest with yourself. Have you REALLY cleaned out every single thing you can?

Perhaps you think I'm being a bit obsessive at this point. Not really.

I'm speaking from experience (again!). I know what it's like to hold onto that one last......purse, pair of shoes, top......because, well, you paid a lot of money for it! Or, someone gave it to you, but you really don't like it.

Now you understand my question!

Let's be honest. We're NOT Karsdashians. We're not even Kathie Lee Gifford. Do we honestly need to hoard goodies in our closet that we don't wear, when it could be doing a lot more good in someone ELSE'S closet?

That gorgeous Coach purse we never use, because the style just isn't right, could be the centerpiece of someone else's purse collection. What good is it doing YOU, stuck high up on a dusty shelf? Ah, but it's a COACH purse.

Well, big whoop de doo.

Queen Elizabeth could have bought it for you, but you're still not using it. Unless you charge admission and view your closet as a museum, GIVE. IT. AWAY.

The author Anne Ortlund, who is one of my favorite Christian writers, talks about having 'just enough' in your wardrobe, so that you can get dressed quickly and get on with the more important things in life. You know, like mothering and volunteering and working. How can you see the outfits you CAN wear, if there's layers of other things in their way........things that you don't wear, but can't bear to part with?

Here's another thought. When you donate your designer goods, someone else who might not have your financial resources gets a chance to own something truly special. You know how you feel when you find a designer label at the thrift store......something that fits YOU, but at a much reduced price that you can afford. You feel like a million bucks. Wouldn't you love to give that feeling to someone else?

I know there are women out there (and men) who can't bear to part with unworn wardrobe items. Sometimes there's comfort in viewing an overstuffed closet......until Monday morning, when you honestly can't find a thing to wear.

So, my sweet Thriftnerd-herd, step back. See that beautiful animal skin clutch? The one you've NEVER, EVER worn to ANY event? Why not donate it so someone else might be able to enjoy it?

And you can use that spot to store the things you DO use.

Forever 21 Rocks

Claire got a Forever 21 gift card for Christmas. So, last Friday night, she and I went on a date to the mall! We enjoyed our favorite orange chicken at the food court, then got our shop on.

I know I've blogged before about the fabulous, CHEAP jewelry Forever 21 sells. Here's a recap: if you love jewelry, especially yellow gold, but don't want to pay for the real thing, and you don't want gold that looks cheap, or is off color, hit F21. Their stuff is on the mark all the time! I got the above ROCK ring for $4.80. Yes, $4.80. Now, I have no delusions that this ring will retain it's color for years, but at that price, who cares? A replacement is easily had! Jewelry starts as low as $1.80 here, and there's always a great selection, not to mention fresh stock for return trips, as the stuff flies off the hooks!

Forever 21 specializes in merchandise that looks amazingly like designer brands. I have my eye on a black, quilted bag with a gold chain, that looks incredibly like Chanel. $20 is a lot more realistic, don't you think? An added bonus for me......I don't have to have a designer label, but I do enjoy the look! There's clothing, bags, shoes, jewelry and even makeup and skin care. I got two large tubes of body lotion in an intoxicating grapefruit scent.......for, you guessed it, $4.80!

Let's be honest, Forever 21 is a junior girls' mecca. However, there's no reason why a mama my age can't go in and get some great swag, too. Besides, I want to be the only almost 50 year woman out there with a ROCK ring.

The Girl With The Dragon Pin

You know the feeling when you've lost something, and it's been gone so long you think you'll never see it again? Maybe you even buy a replacement, and then........VIOLA! You find it!

Such is the case of my beautiful dragon pin.

Years ago, when I was a single mama, I was getting ready to go to a friend's party. I had put together a very nice outfit that had an Asian flair, and I found this gorgeous pin to wear on my blouse. It was truly a statement piece, something you don't see every day. I don't remember how much I paid for it, but I do know it was second hand.

After the party, I carefully put it in my jewelry box, and never wore it again. It's not the kind of thing you get rid of, though. It's such a unique piece of jewelry, and you never know when you'll have another occasion to wear a dragon pin!

Not too long after I'd married Michael, and we moved to Delaware, little Claire eyed my dragon pin one day, and asked if she could borrow it. Of course, I said, knowing I might not see it again soon. You mothers of daughters know what I mean :)

Little did I know it would get THAT lost. Things get covered over with STUFF, but you clean and you organize, and you find it again. No such luck with my dragon pin. Through the years I have poked through my jewelry, scratching my head, wondering where that thing went. Claire swore up and down she couldn't find it, had no idea where it was, and had even switched bedrooms (with the ensuing deep cleaning), all to no avail.

No dragon pin to be found.

In December, Claire was assistant to the director on her school's Christmas pageant. One of her duties was wardrobe mistress, and she had been given, in her freshman year, a special tie that all the wardrobe girls wore. She'd not worn it again since, and she really wanted to wear it that night. We turned 2 floors of our house upside down, looking for that silly thing. In the process, guess what we DID find?

My dragon pin!

That, along with a very nice wristlet I had loaned Claire in freshman year for her first winter formal. I was really, REALLY happy to have both items returned!

I know I can come across as Ms. Organization sometimes, but those of you who know me and have been to my house, know I fight the same organizational battles as everyone else. It really pays to clean stuff out occasionally!

Your Input Needed!!

I have an idea thumping around in my head lately. It involves taking all the information I've written about on my blog, and possibly writing a book. Specifically, a book about thrifting a wardrobe through high school. Most of what I blog about concerns my lovely daughter, Claire's resale wardrobe, and many of you have expressed interest in doing the exact same thing. While some of you are doing so, others might be puzzled as to just how to begin.

That's where a book would come in handy. Learning what to look for in the resale market (as compared to buying brand new at the mall), looking for quality in used clothing, learning to store your aquisitions for the best outfit rotation........even the composition of the typical prom ensemble (by far a blog favorite; we get our highest 'hits' for those posts!).

Now, I do have quite a bit of material suitable for publication. However, I'd like YOUR help! If you guys could weigh in with what you have found the most informative in my blog (pertaining to the teenage wardrobe), and what you would consider important to be included in my book, that would help me a great deal! After all, this blog is nothing without YOU.

Your ideas, comments, even criticisms (both postitive and negative, I'm a big girl!) would GREATLY be appreciated! Thanks in advance, and thanks again for reading Thriftnerd!

The Happy Linen Closet

Unless you are Martha Stewart, you probably don't think too much about your linen closet. That is, until it's overflowing onto the floor every time you open the door, and a strange smell develops on your sheets and towels. Not that I'd know or anything.

Actually, our linen closet was stuffed to the brim, for some reason. I couldn't find what I needed in it, and kept saying, 'I need to clean that out........when I get a chance.' Oh yeah. After the usual cleaning and upkeep of our humble abode, we kept forgetting.

That is, until I opened the door and one of our cats walked out.

How long had little Hope BEEN in there? Why didn't we hear her crying? UGH!!

A deep freeze that kept me housebound was the perfect day to tackle the huge mess. While I am so persistent in cleaning out our drawers and closets on a regular basis, I felt a huge need to keep every single blanket, sheet and towel that had crossed our threshold in the last 8 1/2 years. They weren't all 'company presentable,' either. Blankets and towels with holes chewed in them from deceased pets......scrub rags that literally took up several shelves ('how many rags do you use to clean your bathroom, Claire?' 'Two.').

Needless to say, I filled a huge, black trash bag to the brim with stuff I had to throw away, NOT donate.

So, what do you need to have on hand in YOUR happy linen closet?

As in most areas of life, there's no hard and fast rule that fits every household. You need enough towels for not only your family members that live in the house, but probably 4 visitors. Depending on your extra bed situation, enough linens for overnight guests. At our house, we have regular sheets for warm weather, and flannels for cold. Several blankets to have on hand, not just for guests, but also for snuggling up on the couch, or doubling up on chilly nights, is a good rule of thumb.

We recently redid Brendan's old room into an office/man cave for Michael. We purchased a very nice futon bed, complete with underbed drawers. Having those allowed us to store the pillow, blankets and sheets needed for the futon, freeing up more space in the linen closet. So, we were able to also store our huge beach towel supply, two vaporizers, and our collection of medical slings, wrist and knee wraps, and shoe boots, plus our heating pad. NOW I can find everything!

Believe it or not, after the cleaning, I saw that I needed to buy a few items. We needed more guest pillows, and one set of guest sheets was missing it's fitted member. Not too shabby.

While I was cleaning out the closet, I kept the door open to air it out, and completed the cleaning by sprinkling carpet fresh powder on the floor (I am NOT storing ANYTHING on the floor of the closet!). Made for vacuuming up, I left the powder there, for an extra 'oomph' of freshness.

Because I'm a weirdo who doesn't get our very often, I then Instagramed my beautifully organized linen closet.

What fun is cleaning and organizing if you can't share the results?

Buying Memories, Not Things

I've always had so much fun buying STUFF. Whiling away an afternoon at the thrift store, loading my cart with goodies. Then, at the end of the year, when I'm cleaning out my closet and drawers and finding all of that stuff that went unworn and unused........ugh. The fun quickly fades.

It may be because I'm turning 50 this year. Or, I had a awfully long time to reflect as I recovered from 3 surgeries. Or, it just may be the clean out last year really got to me. At any rate, this year, my focus is spending on experiences, not things.

Many of you are fortunate to be able to finance both, while hardly breaking a sweat. You can go to the mall, enjoy a dinner at the food court, then buy your kiddo goodies from their favorite stores.....all while planning and financing a trip to Disney World.

I can't do that, and I'm glad I can't.

There was a time when I had that much money. I didn't like what went along with it. I would rather live my simple life, with my happy family and restful home, and live on the little God has provided for me. It could be a lot less.

However, in order to enjoy experiences, and the resulting memories with my family, I must plan ahead. I have to cut things out, in order to put that saved money aside, so we can have fun later down the road.

What would I cut out? Well, for starters, I can bring my lunch from home again. After I went back to work, since I was conserving my energy as much as possible, I was picking up a fresh spinach, fruit and nut salad for lunch, plus greek yogurt with oatmeal as a snack. Sounds harmless and cheap, right? I thought so too, until I added it up and found out my 'harmless' ready made meals were costing me $22 a week. At that rate, if I put aside the same amount of $$$ and brought my lunch and snack from home, that money could finance a trip to Canton to see Brendan, and take he and his roommate out to lunch. Isn't that incredible?

See, I hadn't been doing the math. I do it for clothing and things I can buy resale. I wasn't doing it so much for other areas. Will I go into bankruptcy by buying salad and yogurt at the store daily? No. Will I end up in a cardboard box under a bridge if I have a daily coffee from Starbucks? Highly unlikely.

Would I rather enjoy visiting with my 21 yr old kid who lives 2 hours away? Most definitely.

Taking my food from home means I must get it ready the night before. Oh my goodness, I might have to forgo that 1/2 hour rerun of 'Big Bang Theory' to do it, but isn't it worth it? YES!

For those of you who save easily, thank you for putting up with my epiphany. Stifling that huge DUH didn't hurt at all, did it :P