Give the Best Gift Money Can Buy this Christmas

My heart goes out to parents struggling financially at Christmas. Been there. But when I see people overspending and buying a lot of junk they don't need, my sorrow dims.
Call me Scrooge, but it's time to quit confusing credit debt with poverty. Poverty is no running water, open sewers, no food, no medical care. First world consumerism "poverty" is mostly funds mismanagement. iPhones and EBT cards, Medicaid and new cars. Cable, Blu-Ray, satellite TV, games systems and welfare. Gambling, lottery and unemployment. Tattoos, salon nails and food stamps. You can't have them both. So this Christmas, if money is tight, cut back. That's the best gift you can give your kids. Money Tight This Christmas? Give the Best Gift Money Can Buy

Toys for Tots, Giving Tree Shopping Suggestions

I'm feeling pleased and satisfied. Daughter and I got our Samaritans-Purse Operation-Christmas-Child shoe box delivered on time for Thanksgiving delivery. Plus, we got good prices on toys for our church's Christmas Giving Tree too. Dollar General had BOGO 50% off art sets, plus $5 off $50. I'm liking how St. Patrick's (our church) is doing the Giving Tree this year. Here's what's different and how I suggest all Christmas gift donations run.   Toys for Tots, Giving Tree Shopping Tips

Fair Trade Christmas Shopping From Greater Good

We have two god-daughters. Each year, I send their birthday and Christmas gifts together. One has a December b-day and the other, January. I have the gifts shipped to them. Kids love getting mail and it saves me time and running. I don't like to spend double on shipping and handling (to my house and then theirs). I always shop from the same place, Greater Good Network Fair Trade (from The Hunger Site suite of online donation sites). Gifts are made by women and families in developing nations and fair or direct traded. So artisans make the most on their labor and aren't exploited. Plus purchases fund food, health, literacy and other programs. I recommend checking this site for all mail order Christmas gifts.   Fair Trade Christmas Shopping  

Give Kids Cellphones for Christmas Presents, Not Smartphones

As Christmas rolls around, kids are making lists and checking them thrice. At the top of many lists is: Smartphone. But good parents don't need a cellphone to make smart choices. Here's a plan to manage kids and cellphones. Should kids have phones? If you can afford them, okay and if the kid chips in. Cellphones help keep kids safer. They can can contact parents. But children and teen don't need smartphones. They shouldn't have bills till they can afford them. Giving children free use of devices with plans or data packages teaches them to play now, pay later (or never).  Cellphone Christmas Presents for Kids, OK, Smartphones, No 

Candy Alternative Treats for Trick or Treat

Call me an old bat, but I hate Halloween--the ghoulishness, haunted houses, the money wasted on decor, the landfill waste, the candy focus. I'd didn't even like it as a kid. I liked that it made old people happy seeing costumes. I liked dressing up in not scary costumes. But there are other, better ways to do those things. Regardless, I'm not a Scrooge that I pass out treats. But I do like to give sugar alternatives. I wrote one list and here are 10 more trick-or-treat handouts. 10 Candy Alternative Treats for Halloween

Catholic All Saints Day Party Games

Catholics celebrate All Saints Day on November 1, following All Hallow's Eve, or Halloween. Families and churches seeking alternatives to Halloween often host All Saints Eve parties. Here are games to play for your All Saints Day or Eve party. Use holy cards, religious medals, icons, saints statues, a rosary, Bible, childrens missal and images of saints as prizes. Give out candy. This helps children not to feel left out from all the Halloween and trick-or-treat fun. Children love the costume part of Halloween, so help them create costumes based on saints and Biblical characters. Our family participated in mass prior to the All Saints Parties and part of the mass was a procession of children and families dressed as saints. I've made costumes for John the Baptist, King Melchoir, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Joan of Arc, Helen of the Cross, St. Vincent de Paul, Miriam (sister of Moses) and St. Joseph the Worker.  Catholic All Saints Day Party Games

Anti-Bullying Bibliotherapy Books to Give as Kids Gifts

This is the 75th anniversary year of the prestigious Caldecott Medal for children's book illustrations. Books are essential to learning and bibliotherapy is an important tool in teaching affective lessons. I use children's literature to defuse a gamut of emotionally charged issues. Bulling tops the list. Here's a reading list that helps kids deal with bullies in proactive ways. These books are funny and light-hearted.   Anti-Bullying Bibliotherapy Books for Kids

Best Gifts for Teen Boys, Men of All Ages

Teen boys can be tricky to shop for when buying holiday and birthday gifts. We have two girls and two boys. When the boys, now 23 and 21 were little, it was no problem: Matchbox, Legos, tools, sports equipment--they loved them all. The ladies have always been easy to shop for. Then the boys hit adolescent and got complicated. We didn't want to buy gifts that would embarrass. Though they still liked toys, we had to be careful not to patronize. Girls don't get as so sketched out about gifts that might be for younger ages. And there's more available for various ages. But boys are just wired funny as teens. So here's a recommendation  Best Gifts for Teen Boys

Top 10 (plus a Few) 2013 Gift Ideas for Teenage Boys

The gift-giving dilemma for boys has always been pinpointing their exact maturity level and then finding what they'd like. This is respectful and sound thinking; we don't want to buy something that is too old for them, but we DEFINITELY don't want to buy something that is too young for them, either.

This article is nearly eight years old and suggestions are still relevant, too, except that I would change CD to iTunes gift card and add Craigslist to the suggestion about eBay. I would also add that instead of just an Mp3 player, buy an iPod Touch 4th Generation. Kids can use internet free anywhere there's WiFi and they can download a free texting app from Textnow.com. So you don't need to buy phone and plan.  Here's how to navigate that Top 10 (plus a Few) Gift Ideas for Teenage Boys

Man Pleaser Recipes For Birthdays

It really is true--the best way to a man's heart is via the tummy. I've been gettin' to this guy's heart for 26 years now! Men love to be cooked for. And at the risk of gender profiling, I've got to say, women and men don't like the same foods (usually). Gals can subsist on tofu and sprouts. We can even fake we like it. Guys typically can't and they certainly won't pretend to like it if they don't. Here's a recipe shout-out for the boys. Use this man-pleasing menu to satisfy the y-chromosome! Happily, these menus and recipes are easy and mostly inexpensive.    Dad-Pleasing Father's Day Menus, Mens' Favorite Recipes

Cheap Graduation Open House Party Tips

Hosting a graduation open house for a junior high, college, high school or even kindergarten? It can get expensive if you don't cut costs. If you have a high school-graduation open house looming, you have probably just bought invitations, caps and gowns, prom expenses and all the other hidden costs of graduation. Of course, you want to celebrate your student's graduation. But use these tips to save money. Here's one I discovered after writing this--shared open houses. A friend's having a combined open house with families of three of her son's pals. Great way to keep it reasonable. And four kids mean guests don't have to choose between parties if they coincide. Graduates will love the quadruple guests--no sitting with 5-6 people (all family) because your friends are at other open houses. Been there done that at several parties. Parents rented a hall that sat 150 and 12 people came. Very awkward and embarrassing. Better to be overcrowded. And if you're grad objects to cheapness, remind him that parties are a big, expensive gift and you're the ones paying. He's welcome foot the bill himself if he doesn't like your tightwad tactics.  Do's and Dont's for Hosting a Cheap, Open House Graduation Party

Educational, Vintage Memorial Day Student Pageant and Party

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May has several names: Remembrance Day and Decoration Day. We honor fallen military and our loved ones who have passed. Teachers and homeschool families, here's an educational Memorial Day pageant planner with U.S. history tie-ins, American patriotic themes and a vintage flavor.
Make it a give-back to seniors, grandparents for all they've done. Make it a community thank you to veterans for their contributions.Educational, Vintage Memorial Day Student Pageant and Party

Dad-Inspired, Kid-Friendly Mother's Day Party, Homemade and Cheap

As a 25-year mom of four, I've been the guest of honor at many kid-inspired Mother's Day and birthday parties. Our children learned to throw a budget, homemade bash from me and my husband. For a guy, he's great at party-planning. Dads, here are tips from the master's knee, on planning an inexpensive Mother's Day party with your kids, that your wife will love! Dad-Inspired, Kid-Friendly Mother's Day Party, Homemade and Cheap

50+ Mother's Day Gifts Priced Under $10

Mother's Day approaches and you find yourself with more special ladies to remember than money in your pocket. The economy is tight; people are losing jobs, factories are closing, hours are getting cut. There's sometimes barely enough for bills, let alone gifts for special occasions. I've been a mother for twenty years and I want to quickly assure you first of all that it is the thought that really counts. Gifts are nice, but truly, not necessary. Having said that, I know many of you will say, 'but I want to give my mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, teacher, a token of my affection and regard."50+ Mother's Day Gifts Priced Under $10

 

Double Duty Bridal Shower Decorations, Prizes, Wedding Gifts

I've said before that I'm a party gal. I love planning festivities with a low-cost, repurposed, recycled, homemade aesthetic  Here are cheap, double-duty party decorations, bridal shower prizes and wedding party gifts for receptions or showers. Reuse decorations as game prizes, bridal gifts and thank-you presents. Here are suggestions.
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Cheap Wedding Shower Gift, Spring Break, Summer Fashion, Beach--Pool Accessories Under $10

Planning on a sunny Spring Break beach, cruise or pool vacation? Even if you don't hit the beach for Spring vacation, summer is coming soon. Here is a list of must-have beach and pool essentials. In my article, I listed them under $10-$15, but honestly, with prudent shopping, you could pick these up for under $5. I've bought the whole beach ensemble: bathing suit, skirt, lotion, sunscreen, coverup, hat, towel, bag, sunglasses, water bottle, makeup, shoes, hair accessories for under $50. Stuff the bag with goodies and give as a honeymoon wedding shower gift or gradution present--under $25. Scour discount shops, dollar stores. Victoria's Secret offers free or cheap beach bag if you buy certain products. Pier One, World Market, TJ Maxx and Old Navy are reasonable.  Spring Break and Summer Fashion: Beach and Pool Must-Haves

100+ Non-Candy Easter Basket Fillers, Treat Alternatives

Easter = Candy, right? Well if you're of my persuasion, you like to break the obligatory "candy day" mentality. When I was a kid, I got the candy laden Easter baskets. A marketing ploy to be sure. I don't mind my kids getting candy but I do look for non-candy prizes and gifts to put in baskets, too. Here's a list of over 100 treats, goodies, prizes and Easter basket stuffers that offer something better than candy. Being a penny pincher ma, I look for cheap goodies (cheap as in inexpensive, not poorly made). Check Oriental Trading, dollar stores, clearance racks and off-season sales. And yes, this article was written for Valentine's Day--but the gift ideas work great for Easter baskets, too. 100+ Easter Treat Alternatives

Gifts Under $10 for Women--Wife, Mom, Friend, Girlfriend

March is National Women's Month. I don't advocate turning every holiday into a gift-giving shopathon. But a little token is nice. If you'd like to remember a special lady during March with a gift, here are inexpensive--under $10-$15 gifts to do so.  Bed, Bath and Beyond has great gifts for wives, moms, aunts, grandmothers, mother-in-law or any female relative. With coupon and discount savings and great prices you can't go wrong. Bed, Bath and Beyond: every mall in every city in America has a Bed, Bath and Beyond and if you aren't near one, then hop on their Internet website at www.bedbathandbeyond.com. If you sign up for email updates, BBandB will give you a $5 off $20 coupon or a 20% off coupon. Shipping rates at Bed, Bath and Beyond are very reasonable, too. Here's what to get mom or grandma for that last minute gift:  Great Gifts for Wives, Mothers, Grandmas and Women Friends and Family Members

Double Duty Bridal Shower Decorations, Prizes, Wedding Gifts

I've said before that I'm a party gal. I love planning festivities with a low-cost, repurposed, recycled, homemade esthetic flair. Here are cheap, double-duty party prizes and bridal shower prizes and wedding party gifts for receptions or showers. Reuse decorations as game prizes, bridal gifts and thank-you presents. Here are suggestions.  Double Duty Bridal Shower Decorations, Prizes, Wedding Gifts 

Cheap, Creative, Homemade Gifts for Mama

Does Mother's Day, Valentine's Day or birthday find you wondering what gifts mom would like most? You're in good company. Many people find it is easier to grab the cliche flowers or candy than to shop around and find that special gift. Then there's the matter of cost. Gifts get pricey; maybe this year finds you short on cash. Fear not. This year, you have my handy mom gift-giving guide. The secret to selecting perfect gifts for mom is to know her interests. What are your mother's hobbies? What does she read? Does mom collect anything? Here is a shopping guide for Mother's Day gifts that fits any budget. Some gift suggestions cost nothing more than a little time and creativity. Most are homemade. The picture left is something my daughter made for me. See--my name (very hard to find "Marilisa" so she made it special--and in a wine motif--perfect!)  Inexpensive, Creative Gifts for Mom on Valentine's Day or Mother's Day

Sexy, Intimate, Romantic Valentine's Day Gifts

Whether you are in a new relationship or you've been married for 30 years, it is important to keep the spark of romance alive. Romantic Valentine's Day and anniversary gifts keep that flame alive and glowing. Romantic gifts don't need to be expensive to be special. Some gifts cost nothing more than a little time and creativity. Valentine's Day and Anniversary gifts must be unique and personal, however. Here is the definitive guide for choosing a romantic gift for that special him or her. Romantic Valentine Gifts for Lovers

Minimalist Lifestyle is Healthy for Kids, Parents

 My out-of-the house son and I were recently discussing the minimalist lifestyle. We noticed how many people claim to be minimalists but in fact aren't. Case in point: money. It's easy to talk about living simply, but much harder to do it. And now that our son is paying his own way, he realizes why dad and I were so frugal when he was growing up. He sees first-hand how expensive things are and how easy it is get deep in debt. Avoiding debt is one reason parents should live simply. Here are others. Minimalism is Good for Families

Cheap, Homemade Donations for Lent, Easter

Don't let the title of this post throw you. I don't mean that the donation suggestions are cheap as in "tacky." These donations are inexpensive (which makes them ideal for families and those on a tight income). I developed these ideas when I homeschooled our four kids. As a Catholic homeschool family our education focused around the liturgical year. Holy Week is the pinnacle of the church year. We practiced acts of fasting and almsgiving, in solidarity with our Lord and in preparation for our Easter celebration.

Over our homeschool career, we explored many avenues of sacrifice and service. One activity that was very meaningful to us was really quite simple, but relevant. We are fortunate to live near several mission sites which provide immediate care and help to those in need. Our church also has a twin parish in Haiti. Many Staples outlets gather school supplies. I tweaked donation requests from these venues into an annual almsgiving activity. I think these activities would qualify for Jewish families as tithe and Muslim families as zakat offerings, too. Here's how it worked. Lent Almsgiving Activities