Reactions to our news about expecting twins, when we already have three young kids, have been pretty interesting. There is usually a bit of shock, followed by one or more of the following questions: (1) are you going to move, (2) are you going to buy a new vehicle, and …
As we prepare for the arrival of twins in May, we’re going to need to buy some “new” things. And, it’s not just purchases for the babies (because babies don’t really need that much). The other children will be passing down everything from outgrown toys and clothes, to their beds, …
We had a great time on our recent family vacation to Bar Harbor, Maine. One of the best parts about this destination is that you really don’t need to spend money on entertaining your kids. The main expenses for our trip were renting a van, gas, and food. We didn’t …
Welcome to July! Summer is in full swing and you’re probably busy making plans to enjoy as many fun family activities as possible. Our family skips out on things like costly vacations, expensive amusement parks, or all-inclusive summer camps, because of our current battle with debt. However, there are plenty of …
The arrival of a new baby is always exciting. I have a friend who can’t wait to find out next week whether she’s having a boy or a girl. I’ve written before that babies don’t really need all that much. However, you may still want to give a gift to …
My youngest is about to turn one year old. I ran into a friend at daycare the other day, who asked about plans for his birthday party. She seemed genuinely confused when I told her that we are not having a party for him. Why in the world would we …
We are always on the lookout for free, fun activities for the kids. They seem to have the most fun playing outside with sticks, dirt, water, and rocks – all free! It’s still a bit chilly to be spending too much time outdoors. I was really excited to find out that Home Depot …
It can be hard to convert loved ones to our new frugal ways. They are unable to truly adopt new priorities, without being ready to change their entire attitude regarding money. While we won’t be shopping, there is no talking down the rest of them. Black Friday and Cyber Monday, those “holidays” …
As with many different things, a little bit of advance planning for Halloween can keep costs down. I had been asking my children about their costumes since September in the hope of getting ahead of the game. Unfortunately, Goofball seemed to change his mind on a daily basis. I waited …
Goofball started attending kindergarten this month and lunch has been quite the new adventure. We shelter our kids from consumerism as much as possible. We don’t watch much television, except for football games and limited specials like the Thanksgiving parade. Instead, the kids watch old cartoons on YouTube or Disney …
