Cheap, parent-friendly kids' birthday party tips

As a mom to four kids, ages 24 to 14, I've planned a plethora of kids' parties. I'm also a teacher and I've hosted numerous classroom events. There are some misconceptions among parents, about what kids do and don't want for parties (and gifts). Bottom line is, they're not selfish and hard to please, IF, they aren't taught to be. Planning parties, I've had some great successes and colossal fails. From those experiences, I've compiled a list of tips for parents on planning kids' parties. Being a frugalista, these hints focus on cheap, homemade party ideas. My kids' friends still remember my parties as being tons of fun (it's my secret that most only cost me about $10 to put on!) Cheap, parent-friendly kids' birthday party tips

Back to School Eye Exam and Glasses from Walmart, Best Gifts for Kids

There's one aspect of back to school preparation that sometimes gets overlooked--eye exams and glasses. We scrupulously follow school supplies list. We buy pencils, notebooks and backpacks. We shop for school clothes and shoes. We stock the cupboard with healthy school snacks. But we forget the one thing that can make or break a school year for a child--good vision. This year, give the gift of sight with Eye Exam and Glasses from Walmart 

Cyber Monday: How to Save Big Money with Online Shopping

Cyber Monday: Make Online Shopping Work for You Cyber Monday: the biggest online shopping event of the holiday season. After the post-Thanksgiving Black Friday shopping spree, we can enjoy the safer and more peaceful online shopping of Cyber Monday. But even online shopping can be challenging. Every store and merchandiser is vying for your shopping dollar. They ply you with coupons, free shipping and "great deals." How do you navigate (pun intended) the ocean of internet commerce? Here's your shopper's guide to Cyber Monday deals. Read more

Gifts for Dads Who Loves to Fish

Father's Day Gifts for the Fisherman Got a dad who loves to fish? Here a gift-giving guide just for every angler on your shopping list! Use these gift suggestions for Christmas, birthday, Father's Day, holiday or Thank-you! Read More

Cheap Stocking Stuffers for Teen Girls

Best Inexpensive Stocking Stuffers for Tween Girls I always chuckle when I read some advertisements for inexpensive stocking stuffers. I don't consider $10-$25 for one stocking stuffer 'inexpensive'. Here are useful, fun, creative girls' stocking stuffers regularly priced under $3 each. Read More

Personalized Holiday Gifts: Books for Everyone Easy, DIY guide

Holiday Gift-Giving Themes: Easy, Inexpensive, Personalized Gift Books
Holiday gift-giving and shopping can be one of the most exhausting, least enjoyable parts of the Christmas and holiday season. But present shopping can also be great fun with holiday gift-giving themes. Here's one: books. Read More

Gifts for College Students

Back-to-School Guide: College Student Dorm Room for Under $500 Overview of the most useful items to buy or bring with you as you move into your college dorm. Pricing guide to buy products at the best prices. These tips can save you about $30 per day on food, beverage, coffee costs alone. Read more...

Girls Christmas Presents, Birthday Gifts Under $20

Best Gifts Under $20 for Girls Stuck for a good gift for daughter, granddaughter, goddaughter, niece or gift exchanges? Here is a gift guide for tween (or preteen) and teen girls. Each gift in this list is available at Family Dollar, Walmart and sometimes Target for $20 or less. View more »

50 Wedding Gift Ideas Priced Under $10

50 Wedding or Bridal Shower Gifts Regularly Priced Under $10 Think you can't buy a decent wedding gift for less than $10? Surprise! You can find over 50 great wedding gifts priced under $10! Great for shower prizes and hostess gifts, too. View more »