I’m, on a buying trip, and won’t be writing for the next few days… so I decided to publish several days of tips.  New stuff when I return.

24-Feb

            Buy one or two pairs of extra long men’s size tube socks.  Get the heavy duty ones.  Visit the closest Asian market, and purchase a 5 or 10 pound bag of rice.  Get the cheapest kind they have.  Fill the tube socks with the rice (not too tightly packed), and tie a knot in the end to keep the rice from spilling out.  Whenever a family member needs a little extra heat to warm their feet, sooth an ache, or relax stiff muscles, put the sock of rice in the microwave for two to three minutes (depending on the size of the sock) and use as a heat pack.  The heat lasts for a long time, and the scent is very pleasant.  Use over, and over.

25-Feb

            Purchase an inexpensive knit hat for every family member, then turn the thermostat down to between 65 and 68 degrees.  If everyone keeps a hat and warm socks on in the house, you’ll be very comfortable, and save about 50¢ a day.  From now through Spring, you should save between $30 to $100.  Put at least $30 in the tin and let each family member put two new wishes in the tin.  If anyone complains about the cold, heat up the rice sock, and cuddle while reminding them about the wishes in the tin.

26-Feb

            Go to the reduced meat bin in your grocery store.  The meat has to meet the same standards as the full priced selections.  The meat may just look a little gray.  Plan on freezing the meat as soon as you get it home, or use within two days.  Put the difference between the original price and the sale price into the tin.

27-Feb

            When you buy socks for your kids, buy all pairs the same color.  The white socks with gray feet are the best.  Then, as socks are lost or misplaced, you’ll never have to throw out a sock because it has no match.  Put $1.00 in the tin for every unmatched sock you have in the bottom of the laundry basket.

28-Feb

            Review your calendar for March, and budget how much you will be spending for each gifting occasion.  If you normally purchase a Christmas present for those same people, plan on purchasing the Christmas gift at the same time.  Remember to record the purchase in your book.