Pecuniarities

In modern times where the spending of money is oftentimes equated with power and status, the word “frugal” or “frugality” seems to carry an almost negative connotation and be associated with stinginess or miserliness (if you look it up in a thesaurus). However, if we go back to the actual definition and etymology (origins) [...]

Not all our book recommendations are about finance and frugality (in fact most of them won’t be), but we thought this a good time and a good series kick off our book recommendations. The Shopaholic books by Sophie Kinsella and published by Random House are among my favorite light reading matter, and I have actually [...]

In days of old when I was much less informed in financial matters (not that I’m a financial whiz now, but I have improved a little), I used to think credit unions weren’t real “banks” or weren’t as good as banks — sort of like community colleges vs. universities. Well, in a way I was [...]

We thought we’d start off our fast & frugal recipes with our version of Yaki Soba, the Japanese equivalent of Chow Mein. This meal can be made in about 5-10 minutes and for under $1.00 per person.
Yakisoba Ingredients

1 pack of Ramen Noodles (Maruchan, Top Ramen, etc.) – but we won’t be using the soup base [...]

This is a method I have successfully used year after year on a very clever horse. If you follow my example, do so at your own risk and not on a horse that is extremely prone to panic. Do not do this when the horse is tied. Also remember first to take the little cap [...]

In order to persuade anyone to read or believe what advice I attempt to provide, I must first relate that my strong disinclination for music practice is long past, and that not only did I major in music, but practicing the piano is now a favorite form of study and recreation. From growing up among other musicians and my little experience in teaching piano lessons, I have never doubted that inability or reluctance to practice is more common than it is uncommon. I have the firsthand experience of being a reluctant piano student and a trial upon the patience and efforts of several piano teachers and my mother and so would like to help those in that frustrating position by sharing my observations concerning the various reasons which may prevent regular and productive practice by young or beginning music students and offer some possible suggestions for improvement.

I have been a huge fan of libraries since I was in grade school. Being an avid reader, I would have gone bankrupt years ago had I had to purchase every single book I’ve ever read. Whenever we have moved to a new city, the first thing I always looked up even before moving there [...]