Practice makes perfect!

We are very blessed because our school offers choir, band and orchestra Instrument lesson. I know it isn’t always possible to give your child Private lessons. When things were tight we did discuss not following through with the Private lessons. I don’t know how we did, but it all worked out.

Our children have private lessons and the Toledo symphony offers a youth orchestra. All we ask of our children is to practice. One of our boys wasn’t practicing. Randy and I decided if he didn’t practice he would pay his lesson fee.

Week one: We told him and still he didn’t practice. So I took the money out of his account.

Week two: no practicing and I used his money. He was ticked and wanted to know why I was doing this….I told him why use my money each week if he wouldn’t practice. he thought is was dumb and all he had to do is practice.

Week three: No practice…….His money

Week four: His money and then he said “I don’t think it is fair you used my money I am saving it” I said all you have to do is practice and dad and I will pay.

Week five: I am hearing music each day. I think he got the message!

Another valuable lesson! Candy

Stretching your grocery budget

How can we stretch our grocery budget with everything on the rise? Here are a few to help.

• At least one meatless meal a week, Meatless Monday is an easy way to remember. My husband is a meat and potato kind of guy and he didn’t think he would like this idea….Now he is used to it!
• Cook at home and use or recreate your leftovers.
• Shop your cupboards and try to use what you have. I am always surprised what I find when I look in the cupboard and freezer.  Take an inventory you may be surprised.
• Just because you have a coupon for an item doesn’t mean it is the best deal. You will find if you take the time you will get the best deal.
• Use store loyalty cards if your store offers them. (Kroger’s is a good one)
• Make those Friday Night pizzas at home and save $10-$25
• When you would like to make an extra purchase ask yourself one question. Do I need it or do I want it? I would say most of the time I leave with the extra purchase.
• Use less of your products and make it last longer.
• Bartering- Swapping resources is a way to stay in control when money is tight.
• If you have a garden this will help your budget in the warm summer months. Plant things you like and when your produce is ready freeze or can.
• Plan your meals for a few reasons

1.      You are less likely to eat out if you have your meal planned.

2.      You have all the ingredients you need.

3.      If you plan for a month you are more likely to find a sale.

I would love to hear how you are stretching your grocery budget. Have a great day, Candy