Ruth Soukup's Blog, page 95

Crazy for Christmas- Party on Pinterest

Mark your calendars and SAVE THE DATE

for December 4th!

Cozy up with some cocoa and get ready to PIN Everything in Sight!

Because we are pleased to announce the…

Crazy for Christmas Party ON Pinterest

with your Favorite Bloggers!

So there is this MUST-FOLLOW Pinterest Group Board filled with extreme craftiness, beauty & fashion tips galore, genius organizational & DIY ideas, plenty of kid-entertaining and hubby-lovin’ suggestions, and ways to SAVE more moo-lah? Basically EYE-candy at it’s finest! (Following this board ensures your Pinterest feed will be on a balanced diet of daily inspiration!)

Well…we have been invited to be a part of this Pinterest board and {with 13 FANTASTIC other bloggers} throw a LIVE PARTY on PINTEREST!

So pull out your virtual party hats and get those pinning-fingers ready because we are ready to par-tay

CHRISTMAS STYLE!!!

That’s right- this party is alllll about Christmas! Come get lots of pinspiration on: easy Christmas gift ideas, yummy holiday recipes, fun family traditions, festive home decor, free holiday printables, and SO MUCH MORE!

OH! And…

We should mention, there is a GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY too, of course… with TWO winners!!

{Keep scrolling down to enter!}

But that’s not all… EVERYONE’S A WINNER!

That’s right- everyone who parties with us will also get their hands on some gorgeous party favors!! {Designed specially for you by the oh-so-talented Kristin of Yellow Bliss Road!} Just you WAIT!!!!! They are to die for & you will DEFINITELY use them for Christmas! Sneak peek will be emailed to you once you register!

Ummm….I’d attend JUST for those alone!

So, mark your calendars for December 4th!

…and check out all of bloggers involved in the meantime! You are gonna fall in LOVE with them!

The Dating Divas / The 36th Avenue / Somewhat Simple / Lil Luna / Mod Podge Rocks / One Good Thing / Maskcara /Kids Activities Blog / Twist Me Pretty / The Crafting Chicks / Yellow Bliss Road / Simple As That / Thirty Handmade Days / Living Well Spending Less

A FUN Christmas-themed pinning party that all of you can attend from the comfort of your own home- what’s not to love?!

**IMPORTANT: Fill out the form at the bottom of this post to get your OWN invite to the Crazy for Christmas Party on Pinterest and information on how it all works! You’ll also receive a few reminders to make sure you don’t forget! AND registering will automatically hook you up with the amazing FREE digital party favors made by Kristin of Yellow Bliss Road that you’ll receive at the close of the party!**

**All you need to worry about today is entering this

FABULOUS KICK-OFF Giveaway below and RSVPing for the party!**

#1) ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

**Winners will be announced at the close of the party.**

It’s SUPER easy to enter!1. Follow ALL of the bloggers in the widget below {you get entries for each blogger you follow} 2. Be present at the party (a.k.a. watching the pinning countdown on our group board from your computer or mobile device) to claim your prize! 

Crazy For Christmas – Pick Your OWN Prize

#2) RSVP FOR THE PARTY BY FILLING OUT THE FORM BELOW

First Name *


Last Name *


Email *


What Website Are You On Now? *

The Dating Divas36th AvenueCrafting ChicksKids Activities BlogLil’ LunaLiving Well Spending LessMaskcaraMod Podge RocksOne Good ThingSimple As ThatSomewhat SimpleThirty Handmade DaysTwist Me PrettyYellow Bliss Road

**You will get to see your “official” party invite AND read all about how this works once you click “submit.” If you don’t “RSVP” – you will not receive reminders OR get the freebie printable party favors. **

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Easy Freezer Ham & Bean Soup

Nothing warms up a cold winter day faster than a steaming bowl of delicious homemade soup!  Of course there’s not always time to put in a full day of cooking to get that homemade soup just right.  I’m always looking for ways to make our family favorites faster and freezer friendly, and this “cheater” version of ham & bean soup was a huge hit!

Traditional ham & bean soup can take a while to make, especially if you are using dry beans, but this quick & easy recipe comes together in minutes using canned beans and pre-cooked ham.  You can cook it right away, or freeze it to cook in the crock pot later–it literally doesn’t get any easier!

Here is what you need:

4 large carrots
4 large celery ribs
1 large onion
3 15oz cans great northern beans, rinsed & drained
3 15 oz cans navy beans, rinsed & drained
10 cups chicken broth
4 cups cubed fully cooked ham
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 bay leaf
 

Step 1: Slice carrots & celery; chop onion.

Step 2: In large bowl, mix together carrots, celery, onion, garlic, beans, broth, ham, chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Step 3: Divide soup mixture into 2 gallon freezer bags.  (Be sure to label bags first!)

Step 4: Add 1 bay leaf to each bag; seal and freeze.

Step 5: Thaw; place soup in crockpot.  Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.  Remove bay leaf.   For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the broth, or place a few cups in the blender, then return to pot.  (Optional!) Serve with crusty bread.

    Print This!    




Recipe: Easy Ham & Bean Soup

Summary: This super easy to make hearty soup is freezer friendly and delicious!

Ingredients

4 large carrots
4 large celery ribs
1 large onion
3 15oz cans great northern beans, rinsed & drained
3 15 oz cans navy beans, rinsed & drained
10 cups chicken broth
4 cups cubed fully cooked ham
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 bay leaf



Instructions

Slice carrots & celery; chop onion.
In large bowl, mix together carrots, celery, onion, beans, broth, ham, chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Divide soup mixture into 2 gallon freezer bags. (Be sure to label bags first!)
Add 1 bay leaf to each bag; seal and freeze.
Thaw; place soup in crockpot. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Remove bay leaf. For a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the broth, or place a few cups in the blender, then return to pot.  (Optional!)Serve with crusty bread.

Preparation time: 5-7 minutes

Cooking time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in crockpot.

Number of servings (yield): 12-14

 

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Enjoy the Ride Giveaway

Black Friday is almost here and we are ready to open the Holiday Season with some fabulous goodies!!! We’ve partnered with Madsen Cycles and 10 of our favorite blogging friends on INSTAGRAM to bring you an AMAZING giveaway- take a look at this:

One LUCKY reader Will Win the ULTIMATE ENJOY THE RIDE GIVEAWAY

We really want you to have a blast this Holiday Season and The Madsen Bikes are the perfect way to ENJOY THE RIDE!

The MADSEN Bike was designed around the idea that a bicycle can do more!

Its rear cargo bucket has two removable bench seats, each with two lap belts, thus potentially carrying up to four children–or two kids with groceries, scooters, soccer balls, beach gear, etc. etc. etc.

The possibilities are endless!

The weight limit is 600 pounds (271 kg) for rider plus cargo. Kids love the bike because they are within talking distance of mom or dad and can see the world zoom around them, as if they were the ones driving the bicycle. Parents love the bike because they can ditch the car, actively enjoy the outdoors and keep the kids happy all at the same time! The MADSEN design is sleek and beautiful, with great color choices and optional front rack that looks awesome and is very handy.

YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS BIKE!!!!

Find out more about Madsen Cycles on…

Facebook and Instagram

…OH, and because we REALLY, really, really like YOU we decided we’re also going to throw in

four $100 gift cards to Amazon or/and Target.

**That’s just about $2,300 in Prizes**

SHUT THE FRONT DOOR?!

Before you enter, check out all our favorite blogger friends…

Click on the name of each site to check ‘em out…

Madsen Cycles - The MADSEN team is constantly improving the Madsen Bike, as Jared Madsen (bike designer/company owner) wholeheartedly believes that there is always a better design for anything. It is so rewarding to see how MADSEN has improved the quality of lives, one bicycle at a time.
The 36th Avenue - The 36th Avenue is your number one destination for easy DIY projects, free printables, adorable handmade gifts and holiday ideas, delicious recipes and everything EXTRAORDINARY!
Lil’ Luna - Lil’ Luna is the one-stop to find all things creative! Come on over to find inexpensive & unique crafts, DIY projects, recipes, gift ideas, and more for any occasion.
The Dating Divas -Each Monday, the Divas offer a fabulous date idea already completely planned out for your upcoming weekend. Throughout the rest of the week, they offer FREE flirty tips, tricks, tutorials, & darling printables to keep the romance alive and the sparks flying’.
One Good Thing by Jillee - One Good Thing by Jillee is dedicated to sharing one good thing a day that makes life a little more simple, affordable, wholesome, and joyful! Millions of people look to “Jillee” each month for tips on living a more frugal and healthy life. Learn how to enrich your life while conserving time, money, and resources.
Kids Activities Blog - Kids Activities Blog is overflowing with fun crafts, art projects, games and activities for kids- most with contents from your kitchen junk drawer!
Remodelaholic - If your goal is to make your house a home, then come to Remodelaholic.com. They will teach you the best ways to update your house and design and decorate your home on a budget. Go from builder grade to beautiful with their help.
Somewhat Simple- Somewhat Simple is THE PLACE for creative inspiration. Get inspired by thousands of simple projects, recipes, crafts, and more!
Mod Podge Rocks- Mod Podge Rocks is a collection of tutorials and how-tos featuring the world’s greatest decoupage medium. Come visit Amy for tons of inspiration.
Living Well, Spending Less- Living Well, Spending Less is all about the adventure of finding the Good Life on a budget… because a life well lived is not so much about what we have as who we are.
Craftaholics Anonymous -At Craftaholics Anonymous Linda shares all sorts of fun and creative tips & tricks, crafts, tutorials, holiday ideas, and DIY home decor.
Kara’s Party Ideas -Kara Allen is the party designer, author, dessert stylist & creator behind THE place for ALL things PARTY- KarasPartyIdeas.com. Kara’s Party Ideas holds millions of party ideas you can search, party recipes, a party supply shop, a fab party book, fun worldwide party workshops, an app & more!

 

Ready to start the Journey?

HURRY AND ENTER USING THE RAFFLECOPTER WIDGET BELOW:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOOD LUCK!!!!

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Look What’s Coming Soon!!!

It’s almost here!!!  After all this time it is hard to believe that this day is finally right around the corner!  Six weeks from tomorrow my new book, Living Well Spending Less: 12 Secrets of the Good Life, will be arriving in bookstores.  I won’t bore you with the details of how much blood, sweat, and tears went into writing this book (okay, maybe there was no blood), but I will tell you that it is a book that I am so, so, SO excited to share with you all!

It was written for every woman who currently feels overwhelmed or stressed out with a life—or budget—that seems out-of-control. It speaks to the mom who is struggling to balance all the demands of her day-to-day life with the pressure to keep up with the all her friends. It is a practical guide for those of us who long to pull ourselves together but sometimes feel unsure of how to manage all the pieces of a chaotic life. It is the step-by-step guide to creating a life of meaning and joy we’ve all been waiting for.

Friends, I don’t want to sound overly dramatic, but I honestly believe the content in this book is life-changing.  It offers a new way of looking at your home, your goals, and your finances, as well as practical, easy-to-implement ideas for making real and lasting changes in the key areas your life.

It won’t be available in stores until December 30th, which is perfect for starting the New Year off on the right foot, but not so perfect for giving it as a gift to all your friends.  Luckily, I have an awesome solution for that!  Right now, when preorder your copy of Living Well Spending Less: 12 Secrets of the Good Life, you can get these awesome preorder bonuses right away.  That way you’ll have something great to give right now, plus something even better to share later!

ORDER 1 BOOK:

When you order one book, receive this beautifully-designed, ultra-practical digital home planner. With pages for yearly, monthly, and weekly goal-setting, plus pages for planning your schedule, setting your monthly budget, and keeping track of important dates, phone numbers, and passwords, this amazing tool is the perfect way to implement all the practical tips found in the book.

You’ll receive instant access to the digital file plus instructions for how to assemble it. You can even have it coil bound at your local office supply store for just a few dollars to give it as a gift this Christmas!

ORDER 2 BOOKS:

When you order TWO books (one to keep and one to give!), you’ll receive instant access to our digital home planner PLUS instant digital access to this gorgeous original artwork from popular watercolor artist Ruth Simons of Gracelaced.

Ruth’s exquisite artwork features inspirational quotes and scripture verses, and her waiting list for custom art is usually several months long.  Her 8×10 fine art prints normally retail for $16.00, which makes this an amazing value! This beautiful chalkboard print makes the perfect Christmas gift for anyone on your list and you can let them know the book will be coming soon! (We recommending printing using your highest resolution settings on linen card stock for a beautiful gift that will knock the socks off of everyone you know!)

ORDER 5 BOOKS:

When you order FIVE books, you’ll receive both instant access to our digital home planner AND instant digital access to our original artwork from Gracelaced PLUS a limited edition Secret 13 Key pendant from Cents of Style.

This stylish gold necklace has a 30” chain and is the perfect reminder that you already hold the key to the Good Life in your hand. Please note that quantities of this special necklace are extremely limited! To find out more about Secret 13 and our INCREDIBLE essay contest (the prize is an all-expenses paid cruise for 4 on the Carnival Sunshine!!), click HERE.

Here’s How to Get Your Bonuses:

First, preorder your book or books from your favorite retailer—it is currently available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Books a Million, or ChristianBook.com.


Snap a picture with your phone or take a screen shot of your purchase receipt.


Email the picture of your receipt to us at preorder@livingwellspendingless.com


Our team will send out your bonuses right away!

P.S.  If you haven’t yet signed up to join the 12 Days to a Stress Free Christmas Challenge, be sure to do that HERE.  Each day you’ll receive a short encouraging video straight to your inbox, plus a simple but powerful challenge for the day.  It’s free to join, and when you sign up you’ll also get instant access to our 2014 Holiday Planner!

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Weekend Wandering

 Happy Sunday!  I hope you are all having a fabulously relaxing weekend!  I stayed up late last night getting text message updates from the rest of my family over in Washington State who were all watching my niece Kara play in the state volleyball championship game (which they won!)  Those are definitely the moments that make me feel sad I live so far away!

Today I am planning on spending some time fertilizing and weeding my little fall garden.  I am determined to actually grow something this year & so far things are looking promising.  4 weeks in almost nothing has died!  That is major progress.  If you are on Instagram you can follow my progress–just find me at @RuthSoukup or search for #SoukupGarden.

In other news, sure to register for our 12 Days to a Stress Free Holiday Challenge!  Each day you’ll receive a 3-5 minute video & challenge straight to your inbox, and when you register you will also receive our 2014 Holiday Planning Guide.  Both are fabulous resources for keeping your schedule and budget under control, and for staying focused on what matters most.  Oh, and it’s all free!

But now on to the good stuff.  Here is what I loved this week:

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First of all, I keep adding recipes to my Thanksgiving menu–I’m going to have to narrow it down at some point! But this Goat Cheese Appetizer with Nuts and Honey from Home Made Interest sounds delish!

Mmmmm….stuffed mushrooms…..these Thanksgiving Stuffed Mushrooms from Simply Playful Fare might just have to make the list as well!

I’m pretty set on my favorite recipes for mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and pumpkin pie, but I still haven’t found the perfect stuffing just yet.  This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing with Apples and Cranberries from Home Cooking Memories looks like it might be a contender!

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Grilled Cheese Sandwich from Carmel Moments would be a great post-Thanksgiving recipe–just substitute leftover turkey meat for the chicken!

Soup is always a perfect winter meal.  This Vegetable Cheese Chowder from This Silly Girl’s Life only takes 20 minutes to make!

This Slow Cooker French Onion Soup from The Wilderness Wife couldn’t be any easier to make and it looks oh so good!

Moving onto desserts! This Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake Recipe from The Painted Hinge uses a boxed cake mix but no one will ever know!

I Dig Pinterest has a recipe for The Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread. Recipe makes two loaves, one for you and one to share!

Family traditions are what make the holidays extra special.  If you need a few new ideas, check out these Thanksgiving Traditions from The Lou Lou Girls. I love number 5!

And speaking of traditions, My Big Fat Happy Life shares the steps needed to Starting a Thankful Journal with Your Child.  I love this!

Moving on to some budgeting tips…..Thrifty Little Mom has 6 tips to Finding Your Perfect Budgeting System. I totally agree with tip number 6!

These 10 Tips for Black Friday Shopping from Simply Different Imperfect will help save you time and money!

Finally, Graceful Little Honey Bee has 10 Ways to Serve with Your Children During the Holidays. We do a lot of these and it has been so neat to watch this become my kids’ favorite part of the season!

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What did you love this week?

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10 Smart Ways to Save on the Holidays

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it is sometimes easy to get to a point where you simply fling your hands up in the air, throw caution to the wind, whip out the plastic and tell yourself you’ll deal with after New Year’s.  There is seemingly so much to do and not enough time to get it all done, and trying to be thrifty, well, who really has time for that this time of year?

While it might feel overwhelming, or even a little bit impossible, there ARE easy, practical and–dare we say it–almost painless ways to save during the holidays.  Diligence matters and small savings here and there can add up to a much happier January.  Wouldn’t it be nice to go into the New Year with a surplus rather than a deficit? Make this year your year to stay in the black. Here’s how!

1. Plan and Budget

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—planning ahead will always keep you on track. Sitting down for even just a few minutes to be realistic about your family’s goals, needs, and expectations for the holidays can save you time and money–not to mention your sanity–later on.  Our free holiday planner is a fabulous tool to keep yourself on budget, on a menu, and on a schedule. It’ll help you save, prioritize and cut out all those little extras that can really add up.  Grab it HERE.

2. Stick to Cash

While setting a budget is important, it is just as important to stick to it!  Don’t allow yourself wiggle room by bringing your credit cards along when Christmas shopping. While this might seem a little extreme–after all, what if you don’t bring enough money, or decide you need something else while out and about–bringing cash only is the surest way to make sure your resolve doesn’t wane in the face of all those Christmas bargains.

Bring a calculator along too and take the time to really crunch the numbers, and you may even surprise yourself by coming in under budget this year.  You could even make it a personal challenge! How great would it be to have a little extra cash on hand for a fun family activity or special treat?

3. Shop Black Friday

Black Friday can, in fact, be a good time to score some fantastic deals, especially on big-ticket items. The trick to truly saving is to be very deliberate, map out your route and–wait for it–plan ahead.  Deal sites like BlackFriday.com, offer “leaked” ads up to a few weeks beforehand, which can help you figure out the best way to stretch your budget. Spend a little time getting your list together and find the best deals for your big-ticket items only.

You will want to look at the doorbuster deals, of course, but don’t bank on them. (It might be difficult to be one of the first 100 people through the door, especially at a busy store.) Most stores offer the majority of their deals online, as well as in-store, complete with shipping options or the ability to pick up the item at a convenient time. Save yourself the headache (and risk of being trampled) at 2am and instead be methodical about your purchases.

If you’re in an area that offers multiple outlets of the same retail chain, try to get to one that’s a little further out, as everyone will go to the one in town. Get there early and plan your route carefully. Don’t be distracted and sucked in to other offers. (If you’re bringing your cash in hand and have budgeted correctly this should be easy.)

For more tips on getting the best Black Friday deals, check out this post.

If, like me, you plan to do your shopping online, you can often score even better deals on Black Friday than on Cyber Monday. Plus, you’re assured of availability on hot-ticket items.  One of the easiest ways to save online is by earning cash back on all your purchases.   Set up an account through Inbox Dollars, then download the Inbox Dollars shopping tool to your browser to easily earn cash back anytime you visit a participating website.  Set it up in advance (it takes about 5 minutes) so that it is all ready to go & you won’t have to think about it come Black Friday!  (Find out more about how Inbox Dollars works HERE.)

 

4. Get Crafty

One of the best ways to stretch your holiday budget is to to look for simple ways to DIY.  Handmade gifts are not only cost effective, the are usually far more appreciated than just another trinket from the store.  Don’t underestimate the meaning and sentiment in a hand-crafted item. Check out this list of ten wonderful gifts you can make for less than $10 each, none of which require any super creative talent.

Even if you aren’t the crafty type, you can find a myriad of extremely simple ways you can print, snip, create and make something special for loved ones. If you’re computer-savvy, make a calendar with photos of the kids for grandma, or design a recipe booklet for your sister. Gather some favorite photographs and use a service like Mixbook (my favorite–use promo code NOV14 to save 50% through Monday, November 17th!) to have it printed.  You can even get creative–and thrifty–with your wrapping.  A roll of inexpensive white butcher paper and red & green crayons or colored pencils can make for charming DIY wrapping paper!

5. Focus on Family Time

Holiday time means lots of activities—from plays, pageants, ice-skating and holiday-themed entertainment, an entire budget can easily be blown on just a few activities. This year, try to make it about spending time as a family.

Watching movies on Netflix or scheduling an evening around a television airing of a favorite Christmas program can make for an inexpensive evening. Tap into your home video collection and have every family member pick a favorite. Pop popcorn, brew up some hot chocolate, and have a movie marathon. Not only do you avoid the $10-$12/person movie theater prices, but you don’t have to fight with crowds, pay a fortune for snacks or listen to annoying movie patrons talking during the show—PLUS everyone gets to watch in their jammies! Huge bonus!

Get some friends together and go caroling in your neighborhood or at a local assisted living facility. Yes, it may sound hokey, but it can actually be really fun. Make a paper chain, decorate snowmen ornaments out of felt or cotton balls, or cut snowflakes from paper. Put on some Christmas tunes and jam out as a family.

Another charming idea is to check out 12 holiday-themed books from the library and read a different book as a family each night, or, take a Christmas classic and tackle a chapter each evening on a countdown to Christmas. Read the Christmas story from the Bible with your family. With the lights down low and the family gathered around you, I guarantee you’ll feel the spirit of the season.

Break out the board games one night, a deck of cards, or even a puzzle. Family memories are made through simple times and interaction. Just getting everyone to look up from their screens and interact and have fun can really be the highlight of the season.

 

6. Save on Food

Big family dinners can get pricey fast, especially if you’re not paying attention. Taking the time to plan your menus in advance and stock up on food while it is on sale will go a long way in keeping your costs down.  Get more practical tips for saving on food for the holidays HERE.  There’s even a video!

When you make holiday dinners, don’t be afraid to shop your pantry and incorporate ingredients that you have on hand. Also, there’s no rule that you have to use a brand-name ingredient if you’re putting it in a recipe. No one will be able to tell once it’s cooked. Just buy what’s on sale and what you have coupons for, and realize that you don’t have to go all out.

I don’t know about you, but to me it’s not the holidays until I’ve spent a day baking up a storm.  Luckily with all the great grocery sales that happen this time of year, baking can be one of the best bargains of the season as well. Stock up on flour, sugar and other basics as they go on sale over the next few weeks, then spend some time getting your sugar fix. It doesn’t have to be fancy—try going for classic recipes—sugar cookies with sparkles,  are often very inexpensive to make and can really stretch.

If you’re hosting a party, think pot-luck and have everyone pitch in. Alternately, do a soup, taco or potato bar, and with a relatively inexpensive base you can let everyone get a hearty comforting meal and enjoy a festive get-together (for pennies).

 

7. Skip the Decorations

Between Martha Stewart, Pottery Barn and Crate & Barrel, we can sometimes tend to go a little overboard on the decorations, and feel the need to top the year before. Get back to basics by using simple items to decorate—bring in things from nature, scent your home with a few drops of cinnamon or pine essential oils, and have the kids make decorations.

Last year, you may not have shopped the sales, but this year stock up on a few Christmas items after the holiday is over. You can get 50-75% off starting the first day after the holiday, and the savings only stacks up from there. If you’re in the market to purchase a faux tree, bulbs or other items, post-Christmastime is the perfect time to do it—and you’ll thank yourself next year.

Another bit of advice is to go retro. While some vintage items can be very pricey, charming feather trees, ornaments and brick-a-brack can be found at flea markets and antique stores, cleaned up and given great new life. Make door hangers from children’s artwork. Decorate with popcorn, cranberries, paper chains and tinsel.

8. Give Time, Not Money

Instead of stressing over gifts for your friends and family, why not instead agree to forgo a gift exchange in favor of a coffee date after the holidays are over and things have calmed down?  Chances are the promise of spending time with a dear friend, enjoying each other’s company, catching up—and yes, venting–will mean more than a gift ever could.

Try writing a letter to someone, thanking them for what they bring to your life. Agree that you and your spouse will spend an afternoon going for a bike ride or a hike, or even window shopping, as your gift to each other. Walk, hold hands, and enjoy each other’s company.

Encourage your children to give acts of service. Shoveling snow or sprucing up around a neighbor’s yard or house can be a great gift. Homemade coupons for services are always a delight—think babysitting, help with homework, or other things that siblings can do for each other.

9. Keep Gifts Practical

I know it sounds little Grinch-ish, but kids really don’t need more than one toy for Christmas.

One special item, an educational toy or treasure can be just as meaningful as three Barbie dolls, a fleet of action figures or tiny pieces of Littlest Pet Shop that will be lost in a few weeks anyway (if not a few days), and a few well-chosen items will get more use than a whole pile of the latest “hot” toys.  Check out this list of 30 awesome gifts under $30 for some innovative ideas that won’t break the bank.

If your family chooses to give gifts from Santa, try having the special gift come from him. Parents can fill in with books, clothes and practical gifts that children will need and continue to use throughout the year. Or, keep the mom and dad gifts simple, as grandparents, friends and others will give toys and other items.  I promise the absence of excess will not be noticed.

10. Give it Away

It may sound counter-intuitive to give things away in order to spend less during a holiday, but there is something magical happens when we turn our focus outwards towards others. The act of giving gifts changes our mindset and helps put us in a frame of mind where we able to fully appreciate what we have even more. Encouraging children and family members to think of others during this time can help them realize what they have and what they can appreciate in their own lives.

Just like the story of the Grinch—when we learn to give, our hearts truly grow three sizes. We suddenly notice the simple beauty of the things around us.  Make it a family goal to give for 12 days or to give for the entire month of December. Try giving your time and kindness to others. Stay in the spirit of the season, and remember—it’s not about receiving, but about giving back.

 

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What are some ways you save during the holidays?

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Thrifty Thursday {Week 86}

Happy Thursday!  I hope you are all having a fantastic week!   My husband and I have been busy working on some big home improvement projects, and I’m also very excited to report that 4 weeks in, our little garden is actually growing and looking VERY promising!  You can track our progress (and share your own expertise–I need it!) on Instagram–just follow me at @RuthSoukup.

Also, in case you missed last week, the 2014 edition of the LWSL Holiday Planning Guide is now available.  It is a fabulous resource for keeping your schedule and budget under control, and for staying focused on what matters most this time of year.  Oh, and it’s free!  Be sure to grab yours HERE!

Here are the most clicked links from last week:

 
1. Budget Loving Military Wife { How We Live on Less Than HALF of One Income (and Why?) }
2. Thrifty Little Mom { Useful Women’s Gift Ideas for Any Budget }

3. The Budget Mama { 16 Gifts for $20 or Less }

4. Humble in a Heartbeat {14 Wicked Awesome Ways to Simplify Your Budget}

5. The Penny Hoarder { How to Save Money on Groceries Without Clipping Coupons }

6. Taylor Made Ranch {Keeping Your Dollars}

7. Sarah Titus { 10 Best Gifts for Men Under$30 Gift Guide }
8. My Mothermode { 5 Ways We Saved Money This Week }
9. All in All { 15 Tips to Save Money Painlessly }
10. Early Bird Mom {5 Common Menu-Planning Mistakes}
 
Never linked up before? Here’s how:

Scroll down, find the little blue “Add your Link” Button and click on that.
Follow the instructions on the next page – add a great image of your project and an interesting title. Make sure you link to the direct page of your budget friendly post – not the main page of your blog!
Try to visit at least a few other blogs at the party. Be sure to leave a comment to let them know you stopped by!
Please link back to this post somehow. There are badges available here; a simple text link is just fine too.

Feel free to tweet about Thrifty Thursday so others can join the fun, and don’t forget to check back here Sunday morning to see which posts have been featured this week at Weekend Wandering!

If this is your first time here I also invite you to check out my blogging guide, How to Blog for Profit (Without Selling Your Soul).  It is a fantastic resource if you are interested in building your blog, getting more traffic, or learning how to monetize, and the expanded 2nd edition is now available in paperback!  Or, if you have read the book and are still looking to take your blog to the next level, I encourage you to check out Elite Blog Academy.

An InLinkz Link-up

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Best-Ever No-Fuss Mashed Potatoes

At the risk of tooting my own horn, I have to tell you that every single person who has tried these potatoes has declared them the best they’ve ever had.  I can only assume that the main reason for this is that they are pretty much a heart attack in a bowl.  Seriously, potatoes don’t get any unhealthier than these, which is why I only make them at Thanksgiving.  But man-oh-man, are they good!

But the truly beautiful thing about them is that they are also quite possibly the easiest dish you will throw together all day (except maybe this 5 ingredient pumpkin pie.) Seriously, if you avoid making homemade mashed potatoes because you think they are just too much work, this is your lucky day my friends.  These potatoes are practically effortless.

The key is using Yukon Gold potatoes, which have the BEST flavor and texture for mashed potatoes, and also require NO PEELING!!  Just cut into chunks, boil, throw into your KitchenAid with your additional ingredients, mash for a few seconds, and you’re done.   You can double the recipe, but be warned that it will make enough potatoes to feed a small country.

Here is what you need:

1 5lb bag Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
1 8oz package cream cheese
1 8oz carton sour cream
1/2 cup-1 cup heavy cream
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
salt & pepper to taste
1/2 stick salted butter, cut into 3-4 chunks

Step 1: Cut potatoes into chunks, then boil until tender, about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Drain & place in bowl of electric mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment.

Step 3: Add cream cheese, sour cream, 1/2 cup heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt & pepper.  (Don’t be stingy with the salt & pepper!)

Step 4: Mix for 20-30 seconds until potatoes are mashed but still slightly lumpy.  Add more cream if necessary.

Step 5: Transfer to serving bowl and top with chunks of salted butter.

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Recipe: Best Ever No-Fuss Mashed Potatoes

Summary: Rich and creamy mashed potatoes that are full of flavor and come together FAST.

Ingredients

1 5lb bag Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
1 8oz package cream cheese
1 8oz carton sour cream
1/2 cup-1 cup heavy cream
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
salt & pepper to taste
1/2 stick salted butter, cut into 3-4 chunks



Instructions

Cut potatoes into chunks, then boil until tender, about 20 minutes.
Drain & place in bowl of electric mixer fitted with the wire whisk attachment.
Add cream cheese, sour cream, 1/2 cup heavy cream, unsalted butter, and salt & pepper. (Don’t be stingy with the salt & pepper!)
Mix for 20-30 seconds until potatoes are mashed but still slightly lumpy. Add more cream if necessary.
Transfer to serving bowl and top with chunks of salted butter.

Preparation time: 5-7 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minute(s)

Number of servings (yield): 20

 

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30 Awesome Gifts Under $30

I don’t know about you, but going to the mall this time of year is enough to make me want to skip the holidays altogether and just go straight to January. I think it has something to do with the fact that I worked in retail all through college and once worked a 26-hour shift as the manager of The Body Shop when we ran out of gift baskets two days before Christmas.  I spent all night making new ones of out of whatever random items I could find in the stockroom, and then all day Christmas Eve selling them to desperate husbands who were literally willing to buy anything by that point.

But while I hate shopping, I love finding the perfect gifts for my friends and family!  I don’t like buying things just because, so it is important for me to find useful, original, & thoughtful gifts that I know will be appreciated.  Thankfully online shopping has made it possible for me to do that without ever having to wait 20 minutes for a parking spot.  Seriously, what did we do before Amazon.com?

In any case, this year I thought I’d share some of my favorite gift ideas.  All of them can be found for $30 or less (including shipping), and all of them are gifts I would be super excited to give (or receive!)  Of course, if you would rather make your Christmas gifts, be sure to check out all my handmade gift ideas here!

Gifts for Kids (or Kids at Heart):

I’m not a huge fan of toys (or clutter), so I am pretty picky about gifts for kids!  My picks this year all encourage imaginative play without gimmicks or batteries, and they are all sure to be a hit with both kids and parents!

1. Tape It & Wear It Book (+ Duct Tape!)-Got any crafty kids in your life? This creative Tape It & Wear It book shares 60 cool projects kids can make out of duct tape!  Pair it with a couple of rolls of colorful patterned duct tape and you have a totally original gift that any tween girl will go crazy for! ($10.72)

2. Spirograph Deluxe Design Kit- This classic Spirograph kit is just as fun now as it was when we were kids!  It includes 19 wheels, 3 pens, and a 14 page guide book for hours and hours of fun.  ($22.99)

3. Snap Circuits Jr.- I first bought this set for my nephew about eight years ago, and have since bought it for several kids, including my own.  It is always a giant hit!  In fact, my youngest daughter still plays with it almost every single day.  There is something so fascinating about figuring out how to make circuits that work.  ($20.99)

4. ThinkFun Rush Hour Game–We have several different ThinkFun games that we love, but this one is still our favorite!  Figuring out how to free the red car from the traffic jam is both challenging and entertaining for kids of all ages.($17.65)

5. Lego Friends Advent Calendar-Got any little Lego fans around?  The Lego advent calendars are a fun way to count down the days until Christmas.  Each day features a new figurine or piece to build, and there are several different themes to choose from.  My girls love the Lego Friends but there are boy versions too!  ($29.99)

6. Fisher Price Little People Skyway –Standing over 3 feet tall, this play set looks like such a blast!   It also has GREAT reviews!  Your little racer sends a vehicle down the ramp at the top, then waits for the surprise finish as the car comes out at the bottom in one of three spots. It’s different every time!  ($29.97)

7. Spot It Frozen Alphabet - What a perfect way to combine two things my kids LOVE–Frozen and Spot It!  This new version of the hit game lets kids journey with Elsa and Anna to match letters and images from the enchanting cast of Frozen. Familiar characters and objects invite kids to learn, while devoted fans will be swept away into their wintry world. Between any two cards there is always one and only one, matching image. Spot it first and you’ll never “Let It Go!” ($11.37)

8. Kinetic Sand + Sandbox – Kinetic Sand is the squeezable sand where you can FEEL the fun! You’ve never felt anything like it! Pack it, pull it, shape it and love it, this stuff is so incredible you can’t put it down. It’s kinetic – meaning it sticks to itself and not to you! It oozes, moves and melts right before your eyes. It flows through your fingers like a slow-moving liquid, but leaves them completely dry. Kinetic Sand stimulates children’s creative skills allowing them to create anything they can imagine over and over again. Kinetic Sand never dries out and easily cleans up while delivering non-stop fun! ($13.24 + $15.20)

9. Melissa & Doug Classic Wooden Blocks –One of my very favorite gifts, this classic wood block set includes 100 solid wood blocks painted bright red, blue, yellow, and green. A versatile variety of shapes are included: rectangular prisms, cubes, cylinders, half circles, arches, and two different sizes of rectangular planks and triangles.  A set of wooden blocks provides an opportunity for a child to pass the hours constructing towers, castles, or dollhouses. Designed for children ages three and older, this set offers the opportunity for younger kids to practice their fine motor skills and experiment with the laws of physics while giving older kids an outlet for their creativity. ($16.77)

10. Scooter Board-Just like the ones you remember from gym class, this super durable scooter board is a blast to use at home well.  You could get one for every family member to play classic scooter games like scooter hockey, scooter tag, or hold scooter races!  Read the reviews (which are great) for even more ideas. ($19.92)

11. Hop 55 Hopping Ball- Made from super strong yet soft latex-free vinyl for long lasting use and durability, this ball is the perfect way to combine fun and exercise.  Promotes body coordination and balance while providing a fun workout. Special patented handgrip safety handle allows for the safest bouncing & just in case you are worried that it might pop, it has a maximum sustainable weight of 300 pounds!  ($25.95)

12. B. Dr. Doctor Kit- Every kid needs a doctor’s kit, and this one has some serious style!  It features nine unique doctor’s tools plus a storage box, and I love that the tools actually look like “real” implements but are still BPA-free and safe for little kids.  Although this one is intended for younger kids, at 5 and 8 my girls still love playing doctor! ($22.49)

Gifts for Her:

Sisters, moms, daughters, best friends…..it’s not always easy to find gifts that are both thoughtful and useful, but these carefully curated finds are the perfect combination of pretty and practical.

13. Sugar Lips Tank Tops-At first glance these unassuming ribbed tank tops may not look like much, but don’t be fooled by their humble appearance my friends–these little babies are a girl’s best friend.  Do ALL the ladies on your list a favor this year and introduce them to the tank top they will soon not be able to live without.  Cheaper than Spanx (and more attractive too), these one-size-fits-most tanks are meant to fit snug.  And for those of us who need a little help keeping things tight, that is a good thing!  They come in 35 different colors, which is fantastic because I wear them under everything!  But the best part? At around $12-14 bucks a pop, you can afford to stock up!

14. Gracelaced Watercolor Print–Not sure what to get for the friend, sister, or mom who has everything?  Why not wow her with a beautiful piece of original art from the Gracelaced Shoppe?  These gorgeous prints feature inspirational verses and stunning watercolor artwork from up-and-coming artist Ruth Simons.  An 8×10 print on heavyweight textured linen paper is just $16.00, and right now Living Well Spending Less readers can save an additional 15% when you use promo code LWSL15! ($16.00)

15.  Victorio Apple & Potato Peeler  – We first stumbled upon this handy little gadget while staying with some friends and were instantly hooked.  We ordered one of our own as soon as we got home and honestly I don’t know how I managed to live 35 years without it!  If you’ve got a foodie on your list who hasn’t yet discovered the joy of an apple peeler-corer-slicer, this is one perfect gift they are sure to love! ($21.93)

16. Dymo Label Maker + Label Tape - Every organizing enthusiast needs a label maker!  My husband once asked me why I spent so much time labeling everything when I already know where everything goes.  I patiently explained, “oh honey, it’s not so I know where everything goes, it’s so YOU do!” A neat and tidy home starts with having a place for everything, and having a place for everything is so much easier with one of these little puppies! ($16.99 + $12.45)

17. Set of 50 Velvet Hangers- And speaking of organizing, words can not even describe how much I love these velvet hangers–they have literally changed my life!  I first bought them to pare down my closet to just the items I really loved and have since been smitten by the way that my clothes actually stay on the hanger and hang so nicely.  Although I ended up getting rid of clothes, my wardrobe actually felt much bigger!   Maybe what she really needs this year is not more clothes, but the perfect hangers to hang them on!  $21.99

18. Dayspring Inspirational Message Blocks- I love, love, love these beautiful inspirational blocks from Dayspring!  I bought them for myself a few years ago, and have since bought them as gifts for countless friends and they are always a hit!  Originally $49.99 they are now on clearance for half off!   ($24.99)

19. Two Tone “BE” Graffiti Necklace - This beautiful two-toned pendant is both pretty and inspirational!  I love the combination of the sterling silver and rose gold.   Inscribed with positive messages, it makes a beautiful gift and comes complete with a sterling silver chain. ($27.48)

 

Gifts for Him:

Dads, brothers, husbands, & sons….the guys in our life can sometimes be the very hardest to buy for! From music lovers to grill masters, this list has a little something for everything.

20. Survivor Seed Vault- Got a survivalist on your list, or one who aspires to be?  This emergency survival seed vault was created to help you grow food in the event of an emergency. With a large selection, this seed bank contains 20 varieties of easy-to-grow heirloom vegetable seeds. All seeds are packaged in jumbo-sized triple-layered foil packets and have built in zip-lock, so they can be resealed once opened. Detailed planting, harvesting, and seed saving instructions are also included! ($29.95)

21. Timex Weekender Watch-I love a classic watch and this simple and straightforward Timex “Weekender” watch is both manly and stylish for not a lot of cash.  It features an earthy olive color and classic silver-tone case, making it an ideal go-to casual timepiece.  It also features include Indiglo nightlight and is water resistant to 99 feet.  ($21.29)

22. DKnight MagicBox - This ultra powerful portable Bluetooth speaker is a best seller with over 1200 five star reviews for good reason–it rocks!  Its two powerful acoustic drivers and ultra-small size produce a wide audio spectrum, and it has a built-in Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery for up to 10 hours of playtime. It also features a built-in microphone for hands-free speaker phone calling, weighs only 8.3 ounces, and is compatible with all iPhones, iPads, Blackberry, Nexus, Samsung, and all other Bluetooth-equipped devices. ($29.99)

23. Leatherman MultiTool-  Real heroes are the guys who are prepared for anything. Someone in the office can’t open an important letter? Cut your way through his confusion with your handy blade. A lady is desperately trying to hot-wire a car because, apparently, she lost her keys? Whip out your wire strippers and get her on her way home. The Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool turns your favorite guy into a superhero, ready to save mankind, no matter the predicament. This handy tool features a knife, screwdrivers, scissors, pliers, bottle opener, wire stripper, and more, and comes with a 25 year warranty. ($26.22)

24. What If:  Serious Scientific Answers to Absurd Hypothetical Questions - “What if everyone on earth aimed a laser pointer at the moon at the same time? What if you could drain all the water from the oceans? What if all the lightning in the world struck the same place? What if there were a book that considered weird, sometimes ridiculous questions, and it was so compelling that you found yourself skimming its pages to find out what would happen if you threw a baseball at light speed? With What If, Randall Munroe has written such a book. As he does in his extraordinarily popular xkcd webcomic, Munroe applies reason and research to hypothetical conundrums ranging from the philosophical to the scientific (often absurd, but never pseudo) that probably seemed awesome in your elementary school days—but were never sufficiently answered. It’s the rare combination of edifying and fun.” (Review by Jon Foro) ($14.40 Hardcover)

25. Silicone Barbecue Gloves -Got a guy who loves to grill?  Why not give him a gift he can really use?  With these handy grill gloves he’ll easily manage countless grilling and cooking scenarios, all the while keeping his hands safe and dry.  They are the highest rated, most popular silicone grilling gloves available, heat resistant up to 425 degrees, waterproof and slip proof. ($25.27)

30. Hamilton Beach Quesadilla Maker-While grilling is terrific, every guy needs a go-to food option that doesn’t take a lot of time or effort.  Perfect for college students, bachelors, and dads, this handy-dandy little quesadilla maker makes dinner or snack time a breeze.  The nonstick surface makes cleanup easy too!  ($12.99)

Gifts for Everyone

Teachers, hostesses, business associates, babysitters….sometimes our gift list extends well past the people we know the best.  Here are a few practical ideas that will please almost anyone.

25. Harry & David Snack Box - It’s hard to go wrong with food, especially yummy snacks that everyone loves!  While some of the Harry & David gift boxes can be a little pricey, this snack box is actually a great value.  It is packed full of goodies, including cheese, sausage, hot mustard, crackers, Moose Munch, and mixed nuts, and has fantastic reviews.  Through November 11th you can save an extra 20% with promo code FRIEND. ($19.95)

26. Phoenix Community Coffee Toffee - If sweets or coffee (plus doing good while you shop) are more your thing you will definitely want to check out the selections from Phoenix Community Coffee!  This innovative company purchases its coffee directly from farmers at prices substantially higher than the going “fair trade” rate, then donates a large portion of its proceeds to help the homeless here in the US.  Oh, and did I mention it’s delicious?  What more do you need? ($22.95)

27. Nightstand Carafe – Have you ever woken up thirsty in the middle of the night?  I stumbled upon this nightstand carafe a few months ago and I have been a little obsessed with it ever since–what a genius idea!  While I want one for my own nightstand and another one for our guest room, I think it would also make a fabulous hostess gift or just the perfect present for someone who already has everything! ($18.60)

28. Guesstures Game – It’s hard to find a game that everyone can play and everyone will enjoy, but this one definitely fits the bill.  It is easy to set up, easy to play, fun for all ages, and the perfect way to add some energy to your holiday gathering.  We honestly have yet to find someone who hasn’t loved it! To play, simply pop four cards into the Action Timer, then set it and start acting fast. The words may look easy, but you only have a few seconds to get your team to guess each one. The fun comes when the cards start to drop! ($29.99)

NOTE:  Amazon prices are subject to change without warning!

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Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?  Who’s your hardest person to buy for?

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Weekend Wandering

 Happy Sunday!  I hope you are all having a fabulous weekend!  The weather is unusually gray and gloomy here today and I am fighting the temptation to just curl back into bed and stay there for the rest of the day!  Just try and stop me……

In other news, if you haven’t already, be sure to grab your 2014 Holiday Planning Guide is now available.  It is a fabulous resource for keeping your schedule and budget under control, and for staying focused on what matters most.  Oh, and it’s free!  Be sure to grab yours here!

But now on to the good stuff.  Here is what I loved this week:

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First of all, this Creamy Pumpkin Butternut Squash Soup from Modern Hen Home looks so easy to prepare and sounds so yummy!

Mmm…these Grape Crostini with Blue Cheese Spread and Honey from Home Cooking Memories sound like the perfect Thanksgiving appetizer!

This Butternut Squash Salad with Candied Nuts from The Seasoned Mom would be a great addition to your Thanksgiving menu too!

And speaking of Thanksgiving…..Growing Up Gabel has tips on how to Brine and Roast a Turkey to ensure a perfectly moist bird!

Onto the dessert table! These Pumpkin Pecan Brownie Bites from Kleinworth & Co. sound SO good!

These Oreo Truffles from Moms Need to Know are super easy to make and only require 3 ingredients.  Definitely my kind of dessert!

This Homemade Mulled Apple Cider Recipe from Little House Living is the perfect solution to a dreary day like today!

This Easy Apple Cranberry Chia Seed Jam from A Worthy Read would make a great homemade gift for teachers, neighbors and friends!

Planning to host Thanksgiving at your house this year? Sports Mom Survival Guide has 21 Kid Activities for Holiday Gatherings. Number 3 would be so much FUN!

Of course if you are more worried about getting the food on the table, Modern Christian Homemaker has the secrets to Perfectly Timing Thanksgiving Dinner.

Moving on to some great money saving tips….. Sarah Titus has four easy to follow tips on How to Build a Stockpile.

Not sure you want to brave the stores on Black Friday?  Check out this Guide to Black Friday Shopping Online from More Excellent Me.

Snail Pace Transformations has 10 Ways Thrifty People Prepare for the Christmas Shopping Season. I love tip #2!

And finally, these 6 tips on How to Save on Holiday Gifts from Sunshine and Hurricanes are also a great way to budget for the holidays!

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What did you love this week?

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