March 15th, 2015
Thrift Stores
The frugal cougar used to work at a thrift store. Value Village to be exact. This was a looooong time ago (I was 19 at the time). I saw how the donated items were processed, checked and priced. I had access to all that wonderful merchandise at a steep discount. I spent way to much money because I wasn't yet a Frugal Cougar.
For this discussion on being frugal - I will give some tips on how to manage and navigate a thrift store so you buy what you need (and only what you need) and save money.
First, let's talk about thrift stores in general. These can be run either by a non-profit (such as a hospital thrift store) or a profit company (such as Value Village). Even with the profit company, the items are still donated to a charity (e.g. Developmental Disabilities), the Value Village buys the donated items in bulk (often by weight) and then sorts and prices. The charity gets the money for the weight of the items. The private company gets the profit from the items sold. There are a few other variables, but this is essentially how it works.
In a thrift store - the items are received as they are donated. They are not washed by the store. Checkers/pricers will quickly scan the item, looking for overall quality (visible dirty, damage, etc). If the item is covered in dirt/grime, it will be discarded. Otherwise - out on the sales floor they go.
In smaller, non-profit stores - the items may or not be sorted and displayed by type. Usually womens/mens/children are separated, but that is often it. Buyers need to rummage a bit to find a size or colour.
At Value Village - the items are sorted by by adults/children, then gender, then type (long sleeve button shirts/blouse; long sleeve shirt; short sleeve shirts/blouse; short sleeve shirt; T-shirt, etc.) They are further sorted by colour (yellow, orange, green, blue, etc).
The prices tend to be cheaper at the smaller, non-profits. The prices are are higher at the profit store, however, there is often more merchandise to choose from and it is well sorted, so that it is easy to find what you're looking for.
Regardless of what type of thrift store you shop at - here are some tips:
1) Have a price limit in mind. It is easy to overspend at a thrift store because there are so many great deals. Have a price limit and STICK TO IT.
2) Whether you are looking for one specific thing or just having a gander and seeing what is available - look over each item carefully before putting it into your cart. Check for stains and rips (the checkers and pricers work fast and so they sometimes miss stuff). Eliminate anything that is not repairable or has stains.
BTW if the rip IS repairable, but the price indicates that the rip might have been overlooked by the pricer and you really want the item - set it aside in your cart and ask for a re-price by clerk or manager.
3) Hold the item up to yourself. Will it fit? If you determine it won't fit, just put it back and move on;
4) After going through the racks and eliminating poor quality or obvious misfits, go to the changing room. I usually wear a tank top when I thrift shop. Sometimes the change rooms are crowded and the attendant will only let you take in 3 to 6 items at a time. I can try on all the sweaters, jackets, etc and check them out in the mirror OUTSIDE the change rooms. I can then eliminate what doesn't fit while waiting.
5) While in the changeroom, check the fit and colour. Does it fit well? Is the style and colour flattering. Don't EVER buy something thinking, "it's great, I just need to lose 10 lbs" Buy clothes that fit. Period. The only time you want to buy something that doesn't fit perfectly is when you're pregnant and need room for the baby bump to grow.
6) Once ill-fitting and unflattering items are eliminated. Think carefully about the well fit and flattering clothes. Will you wear it? I could try on the most beautiful evening gown, but know full well that I don't go to fancy balls and such. It's a waste of money if it is something that you will not wear.
7) After determining that the item is something that you would wear - think about it some more. Do you have something in good condition that fits in your closet already? Do you need to add this item to what you already own. We can only wear one outfit at a time. If you already have five white blouses - do you really need one more?
8) Once you determine that it fits, it's flattering, you need it, you will have some "potentials". Leave the changeroom and take stock of the "potentials". Take one more look for rips/stains. Check the seams and buttons. Pay close attention to the collars and cuffs. Check for fading. I even look carefully in the seams and look for bugs (Please note - I have been thrift store shopping for over two decades and worked in a thrift store. I have never found bugs or had bugs in my home). Checking for bed bugs is just a precaution.
9) Take another look at the prices. Is similar stuff available in retail stores for the same price (or sometimes less)? Don't buy a used item that can be purchased new for the same price. There is lots of merchandise out there and the checkers/pricers can't possibly know all the stores and their price points. Is the item worth the price? Does it fit in your budget? Eliminate what doesn't fit in your budget (remember item 1 - stick to your budget!!!)
10) Take the items to the check out. Ask the clerk if there are any discounts and special deals available. Maybe they have a "seniors discount" and you are a young looking senior. Whip out that Care Card and get that discount! Maybe they have a special for veterans or BCAA (Automobile Association) members. Once, I asked and they had a coupon out. The clerk had an extra coupon at the til and let me have the discount! You never know - just ask nicely and see what happens.
11) If you don't know the return/exchange policy - ask. Value Village has a return policy where you can bring back clothing/shoes within seven days (with the tag still attached) and the receipt. This policy does not apply to jewelery, furniture or large items. Always ask to be sure.
12) Thrift stores tend to stuff the merchandise into bags. Remember - this ain't Victoria's Secret. Don't expect to have your items wrapped in tissue and gingerly placed in. If you need an extra bag or the items not packed so tight - just ask nicely. The clerk on my last visit double bagged all my items because I had a long walk and didn't want to bag to rip.
13) Take 'em home and try them on again. Get your partner or a friends opinion if this is important to you.
14) Wash 'em. Remember - the thrift stores don't launder the items. Just give them a run through the wash if you want to make sure they are nice and fresh. I sometimes omit this, as I can often smell the detergent or fabric softener on the clothes. I always wash clothes before donating them to charities and, evidently, many other people do the same courtesy.
Thrift Stores are great. They encourage re-cycling. They are fun to shop in. I find them comfortable as I am not smelling the off-gassing from the dyes used in clothes (which I find overpowering in a retail store). Thrift store shoppers are a pleasant, happy bunch. I see people trying on a coat or outfit and sometimes they look really, really good. I can't help but tell them how much the items suit them and that it is such as awesome find. I often leave the store feeling good. I got some clothes that I needed and look great on me and didn't cost a fortune. Good times.
Happy Thifting everyone.
The Frugal Cougar
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Friday, December 5, 2014
Thrifty, Tried, Tested and True Turkey
Notwithstanding the current problems with the avian flu virus found amongst the birds at some local farms, Turkey is a tasty, frugal meat at the traditional times of Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Currently, No Frills (a Canadian grocer owned by Loblaws) has utility Turkeys on for $0.95 per pound. This is a good, cheap protein source. The Frugal Cougar suggests stocking up and keeping a couple of birds in the freezer for use in the in first quarter of 2015 (i.e. January, February, March, 2015). At Easter, stock up again and you'll have meat for less than a buck a pound throughout most of the year.
As for the upcoming feast at Christmas, the Frugal Cougar browses the discarded newspapers at work (as I am too frugal to buy a newspaper). I note that there are always recipes for preparing the holiday bird a few days before the traditional feast days of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
A word of caution about deciding to prepare one of these wonderful sounding recipes....
The time for trying a new recipe or preparation method for a feast is NOT the day of the feast. Some recipes are real turkeys (both literally and figuratively). There is no sense going through the expense of the ingredients, the time and the effort to have a failed bird (either in taste or in miscalculation of preparation/cooking time, leaving guests hungry while you rush around the kitchen).
For your feast - do the tried, trusted and true. Prepare the turkey the way you KNOW if is going to turn out good. Be extra frugal and have guests help out with the sides. If you are lucky enough to be a guest, follow the same tried, trusted and true rule and bring something you know will be well received and complement the meal.
As for those delectable sounding recipes from the magazines and newspapers. Clip 'em. Save 'em. Remember those extra birds I suggested you buy at $0.95 per pound? It is in the New Year when you can try them. This gives you a chance to practice and tweak recipes. If something doesn't turn out perfectly - there is always ways to salvage it and still enjoy the turkey meat in sandwiches, casseroles, stir fries and soups. Sometimes a fantastic recipe just needs a little adjustment and a solid calculation on the time to prep and cook. Make a few notes on the recipe and save it for the next feast. This time, the new recipe will be tried, trusted and true.
Happy Holidays Everyone.
The Frugal Cougar
Currently, No Frills (a Canadian grocer owned by Loblaws) has utility Turkeys on for $0.95 per pound. This is a good, cheap protein source. The Frugal Cougar suggests stocking up and keeping a couple of birds in the freezer for use in the in first quarter of 2015 (i.e. January, February, March, 2015). At Easter, stock up again and you'll have meat for less than a buck a pound throughout most of the year.
As for the upcoming feast at Christmas, the Frugal Cougar browses the discarded newspapers at work (as I am too frugal to buy a newspaper). I note that there are always recipes for preparing the holiday bird a few days before the traditional feast days of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
A word of caution about deciding to prepare one of these wonderful sounding recipes....
The time for trying a new recipe or preparation method for a feast is NOT the day of the feast. Some recipes are real turkeys (both literally and figuratively). There is no sense going through the expense of the ingredients, the time and the effort to have a failed bird (either in taste or in miscalculation of preparation/cooking time, leaving guests hungry while you rush around the kitchen).
For your feast - do the tried, trusted and true. Prepare the turkey the way you KNOW if is going to turn out good. Be extra frugal and have guests help out with the sides. If you are lucky enough to be a guest, follow the same tried, trusted and true rule and bring something you know will be well received and complement the meal.
As for those delectable sounding recipes from the magazines and newspapers. Clip 'em. Save 'em. Remember those extra birds I suggested you buy at $0.95 per pound? It is in the New Year when you can try them. This gives you a chance to practice and tweak recipes. If something doesn't turn out perfectly - there is always ways to salvage it and still enjoy the turkey meat in sandwiches, casseroles, stir fries and soups. Sometimes a fantastic recipe just needs a little adjustment and a solid calculation on the time to prep and cook. Make a few notes on the recipe and save it for the next feast. This time, the new recipe will be tried, trusted and true.
Happy Holidays Everyone.
The Frugal Cougar
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
The Downward Race to the Bottom (A Political Rant by the Frugal Cougar)
I love learning about "life hacks" "frugal tips" "cheapskate wisdom" and the rest of it. I truly believe that living a Frugal Lifestyle is a happy, environmentally sustainable and financially rewarding way.
While I bask in my frugal ways, I want to caution about the "downward race to the bottom" which is oft subtly encouraged by certain right wing thinking types:
Has anyone ever heard the phrase, "If you can afford a cup of coffee per day, then you can afford (fill in the blank)"?
Many times the "blank" being filled in is a sales pitch (for insurance or another good/service). This isn't so bad - as the listener can consider giving up one good/service (that is "coffee") for another, which the listener may find more enjoyable or valuable. For instance - if you can afford a cup of coffee per day, you can afford to buy a pound of BACON!"
Other times, the "blank" is a little more insinuating. It is suggesting that the listener give up their coffee and pay for something that is being externalized to them.
Before I continue, let me explain "externalizing". This is the shifting of responsibility from one party to another. For instance, if I was the owner of a factory that causes air pollution, I could build a proper filtration system to cease the pollution, or I could "externalize" this responsibility to the people and just assume that they can wash their sooty clothes more frequently and live with respiratory illness.
So, "if you can afford a cup of coffee, then you can afford to pay for a school workbook." Hey. Wait a second. The school workbook is a part of the public education coursework . Isn't this suppose to be covered by the Ministry of Education - funded through collective wealth of this province (notice I didn't say "taxpayers" - see this fantastic article from the Vancouver Sun):
http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Daphne+Bramham+need+citizens+just+taxpayers+bookkeepers/10203291/story.html.
"If you can afford a cup of coffee, then you can afford to supply your own uniform for your job"
"If you can afford a cup of coffee, then you can afford to pay the fuel surcharge to use the BC Ferries" (read about the record profits of BC Ferries here):
http://www.news1130.com/2014/08/22/bc-ferries-triples-profit-in-april-to-june-quarter/.
"If you can afford a cup of coffee, then you can afford a user fee...."
The Frugal Cougar likes coffee - but doesn't drink THAT much to cover all the externalizing that has happened in the last few years...
Has anyone ever heard (or found themselves saying) "If they would only do (blank) or stop doing (blank) then they would have it easier"
In this case, a critic will see a single parent picking up boxed cereal and tut-tut, "If they would only just make oatmeal in the morning - they wouldn't need rent subsidy"
Another critic might see a young man buying a new pair of shoes, snort and say, "Hmmph, that laddie should try buying less fancy shoes, then they would not complain about their student loans."
The Frugal Cougar likes reading about how the contemporaries of her grandparents survived in the Great Depression. There is a lot to learn and emulate to live a happy Frugal Lifestyle. However, it was called the Great 'Depression' - not the Great "Celebration". Necessity was the mother of invention - but I'm pretty sure that the Joads from The Grapes of Wrath would have preferred a chicken in the pot rather than dough fried in left over grease drippings.
In conclusion:
The Frugal Lifestyle is a good thing. It is not, however, a means to extract more and more out of workers and citizens while others get richer.
This Frugal Cougar supports Living Wages (both union and non-union), Adequately Funded Public Education, and Universal Health Care. This Frugal Cougar supports strong environmental regulations. This Frugal Cougar supports social assistance which allows those receiving same to live in dignity.
In a civilized society, a Frugal Cougar can live this lifestyle by choice. In a mean spirited, neo-liberal society - it is no longer a lifestyle of choice, but a nasty, hardscrabble hell which this Frugal Cougar wants no part of.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
What Do you Really Need (from Charles Long's "How to Survive Without a Salary")
What Do You Really Need?
I read a book by Charles Long (A Canadian!!!), "How to Survive Without a Salary" Warwick Publishing copyright 2003.
It is an interesting read and I recommend it for some excellent (and often unique) advice on living waaaaaaay below ones means, or even giving up a regular paycheque for a simpler living.
My favourite part of this book "Examining Needs"
Mr. Long suggests that people look at their base needs ask "What will perform the function?" rather than "What should I buy?" He gives an example of purchasing a new mattress, but deciding to go with a plywood "platform" rather than pay in excess of $200 for a box spring. The function was to provide support for the mattress. He choose the less expensive solution.
He asks a series of questions:
1. What is the problem.
In the aforementioned example, the problem was needing support for the mattress.
In an example from my own life - my problem was getting across town to work. I didn't "need a new car" I settled for a bus pass and a decent pair of walking shoes. Gets me to work on time and back home again in reasonable time for reasonable price. As a bonus, I get to read on the bus and get a little exercise via walking. :)
2. Who Needs It?
Whose problem is it anyway? Do we really need it or are we filling the needs of the "Jones'" Mr Long suggests ignoring articificial needs, created by fashion and desire to emulate and suggests that these are "strawmen" created by advertisers.
3. What would Change the Need?
Mr. Long gives examples such as 'would the need for a lawnmower be changed if one planted veggies or a groundcovering instead of maintaining a lawn.
4. How Long will it Last?
Mr. Long suggests that we best look at "what" we need, as well as "when" and "how long".
He gives the example of a woman driving an older car and needing a new battery. A new battery would last longer than the car! She filled her temporary need by purchasing a used battery from a wreck. The battery would last as long as she personally needed it.
5. What are the alternatives?
This is a fun part. Mr. Long suggests brainstorming and being creative.
In my own life - I wanted to have some candlelight on my patio. I am to much have a frugal cougar to buy candles. I ended up making my own "candles" out of a hollowed out navel orange peel and Canola oil!! Filled the need, was environmentally friendly and costs nothing (I even found the orange on the ground near a school yard. And, NO, I didn't eat the oranage, that-you-for-asking :)
6. What are the costs?
A good example of this is the purchase of a car. There is the outright purchase of the car, insurance, maintenance, gas, parking. These costs add up. There is the environmental cost as well. If one lives in the city, taking the bus, biking, walking or belonging to a car co-op might be a viable and affordable alternative.
I started using this thought process when considering all my needs. This has helped me reduce costs and rethink many potential purchases. It is a logical, frugal mindset.
For other great ideas and philosophy from Charles Long - have a look at his book. It is available at the Vancouver Public Library. Reasonably priced, used copies are also available at www.amazon.ca
http://www.amazon.ca/How-survive-without-salary-conserver/dp/1895629683
http://vpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/1179227038_how_to_survive_without_a_salary
I read a book by Charles Long (A Canadian!!!), "How to Survive Without a Salary" Warwick Publishing copyright 2003.
It is an interesting read and I recommend it for some excellent (and often unique) advice on living waaaaaaay below ones means, or even giving up a regular paycheque for a simpler living.
My favourite part of this book "Examining Needs"
Mr. Long suggests that people look at their base needs ask "What will perform the function?" rather than "What should I buy?" He gives an example of purchasing a new mattress, but deciding to go with a plywood "platform" rather than pay in excess of $200 for a box spring. The function was to provide support for the mattress. He choose the less expensive solution.
He asks a series of questions:
1. What is the problem.
In the aforementioned example, the problem was needing support for the mattress.
In an example from my own life - my problem was getting across town to work. I didn't "need a new car" I settled for a bus pass and a decent pair of walking shoes. Gets me to work on time and back home again in reasonable time for reasonable price. As a bonus, I get to read on the bus and get a little exercise via walking. :)
2. Who Needs It?
Whose problem is it anyway? Do we really need it or are we filling the needs of the "Jones'" Mr Long suggests ignoring articificial needs, created by fashion and desire to emulate and suggests that these are "strawmen" created by advertisers.
3. What would Change the Need?
Mr. Long gives examples such as 'would the need for a lawnmower be changed if one planted veggies or a groundcovering instead of maintaining a lawn.
4. How Long will it Last?
Mr. Long suggests that we best look at "what" we need, as well as "when" and "how long".
He gives the example of a woman driving an older car and needing a new battery. A new battery would last longer than the car! She filled her temporary need by purchasing a used battery from a wreck. The battery would last as long as she personally needed it.
5. What are the alternatives?
This is a fun part. Mr. Long suggests brainstorming and being creative.
In my own life - I wanted to have some candlelight on my patio. I am to much have a frugal cougar to buy candles. I ended up making my own "candles" out of a hollowed out navel orange peel and Canola oil!! Filled the need, was environmentally friendly and costs nothing (I even found the orange on the ground near a school yard. And, NO, I didn't eat the oranage, that-you-for-asking :)
6. What are the costs?
A good example of this is the purchase of a car. There is the outright purchase of the car, insurance, maintenance, gas, parking. These costs add up. There is the environmental cost as well. If one lives in the city, taking the bus, biking, walking or belonging to a car co-op might be a viable and affordable alternative.
I started using this thought process when considering all my needs. This has helped me reduce costs and rethink many potential purchases. It is a logical, frugal mindset.
For other great ideas and philosophy from Charles Long - have a look at his book. It is available at the Vancouver Public Library. Reasonably priced, used copies are also available at www.amazon.ca
http://www.amazon.ca/How-survive-without-salary-conserver/dp/1895629683
http://vpl.bibliocommons.com/item/show/1179227038_how_to_survive_without_a_salary
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Is it Hot in Here or Is it Just Me?
I'm a cougar who enjoys the temperate climate of the West Coast of British Columbia. I like things cool. As a Frugal Cougar, I don't own an air conditioning - fully aware of how their high up-front cost and how much electricity they use.
So, let's look at frugal ways to keep your home cool in the hot days of summer.
First things first. The Sun. Good old Sol, the center of our star system. That's where all our heat comes from (ultimately). To keep your home cool in the summer, keep our friend, the Sun, OUT!
This can be accomplished a number of ways:
Outside the house - plant foliage trees (or if choosing a new home to move to - chose a home with ample foliage on the south side). Leafy, green trees block much of the sun as the verdant branches filter it out. In addition to helping keep the home cool - it's relaxing to look at and, generally, good for the air quality around your home.
In addition (or instead, in case trees are somehow out of the question) - try an awning, a shelter or patio umbrella. Like the trees - these can be effective sunblocks so that the Sun's rays don't heat up your living room.
Inside the house - use your drapes and/or hanging, leafy, green houseplants. Use the macrame plant hangers that your grandma used to make or hang planters from hooks above the windows. The drapes should be thick enough to block light (get the "blackout drapes" as they will keep heat/light out during the summer days and, in winter, they will help keep the cold out and the heat in during the night). In summer months - keep them closed to keep the blazing sun out.
If you are not going to be at home anyway - some cheapskate sites suggest using high density insulation foam. Cut some of this (available at hardware stores) into a size that fits a window. Place it there during the day (when you're not at home) and this will keep the light and heat out - helping to keep the place cooler.
Now that we have the Sun under control (or as much control as mere mortals can have over the Sun) let's move on to other sources of heat...
Most frugal kitties out there will already use high effeciency/low heat light bulbs. Some lamps still use heat producing incandescent bulbs. Keep these turned off unless really needed (i.e. for reading).
Other sources of electric heat are electronics. Computers, DVD Players, Televisions, Video Game Consoles, Smart Phones, Tablet Computers, Laptops - when plugged in - they all produce heat (and waste electricity). Once charged - unplug. When not in use - unplug. Feel the back of the computer that you are reading this on - warm eh? Keep these electronics cold when not in use.
In the hot summer - try cooking outdoors. Use the BBQ for grilling/roasting. Take the toaster oven outside onto your balcony or patio - as long as there is an outlet for it - it works out there. Same with the slow cooker (crock pot). If you have a hot plate (i.e. a portable stove element) - take that outside too. Let the heat from these appliances join the heat from the Sun, let their combined heat frolic in the backyard, away from your indoor living space.
As a Frugal Cougar - I already only launder in cold water (for spot stains requiring hot water - I spot clean those and then use cold water wash). No sense wasting hot water and heating up the house from a hot water wash.
Once those cold clothes are clean, go visit our friend, the Sun, outside. Hang your damp laundry on a dryer rack (you can use the indoor one, just put it on the patio or balcony) or lay it over your patio furniture. The hot sun will have those clothes dried in no time. The dryer creates a lot of heat and uses a lot of electricity. Let our buddy, the Sun, do the drying for free outside.
In the washrooms - run the fan on low. This will suck up and vent out the hot air. Turn on some floor fans when you are at home. Circulating air is cooling.
Keep all interior doors (to bedrooms/dens) CLOSED, especially those on the south side of your home. This helps keep the hot air (which comes through the windows/walls) out of the main living areas of your home. In the cooler evening - you can retire to these rooms, even open a window (as long as the air is cooler outside than inside).
If it is really getting hot in there, despite all the above tips - bring out the big guns. Freeze water in old milk cartons/jugs, recycled pop bottles or recycled sour cream containers. Place these water-filled, frozen containers in front of a blowing fan. The air will pick up the cold and you can just relax in the chilled breeze.
Finally - when you are ready to go to bed - find the coolest place in your home. I know folks who use their basements during the hottest days of the summer - like camping in their own home. If you don't have a basement or need the sleep hygiene of being in your regular bed - close the bedroom door. Have a table or floor fan in your bedroom. Grab another block of ice from the freezer and crack the window open to let the cool night air in. Wear cotton jammies (or be like this Frugal Cougar and just sleep in panties and a cotton tank top). You will get a good nights sleep and not have to endure so much summer heat.
Oh, one more thing - for my fellow cougars who are having hot flashes (or "power surges" as I like to call 'em) - use those camping ice packs in your bed. Really. I know a few cougars who have tried this and they all swear by it. These packs can be picked up a Canadian Tire or even Dollar Stores.
Happy Summer. Til next time.
I'm a cougar who enjoys the temperate climate of the West Coast of British Columbia. I like things cool. As a Frugal Cougar, I don't own an air conditioning - fully aware of how their high up-front cost and how much electricity they use.
So, let's look at frugal ways to keep your home cool in the hot days of summer.
First things first. The Sun. Good old Sol, the center of our star system. That's where all our heat comes from (ultimately). To keep your home cool in the summer, keep our friend, the Sun, OUT!
This can be accomplished a number of ways:
Outside the house - plant foliage trees (or if choosing a new home to move to - chose a home with ample foliage on the south side). Leafy, green trees block much of the sun as the verdant branches filter it out. In addition to helping keep the home cool - it's relaxing to look at and, generally, good for the air quality around your home.
In addition (or instead, in case trees are somehow out of the question) - try an awning, a shelter or patio umbrella. Like the trees - these can be effective sunblocks so that the Sun's rays don't heat up your living room.
Inside the house - use your drapes and/or hanging, leafy, green houseplants. Use the macrame plant hangers that your grandma used to make or hang planters from hooks above the windows. The drapes should be thick enough to block light (get the "blackout drapes" as they will keep heat/light out during the summer days and, in winter, they will help keep the cold out and the heat in during the night). In summer months - keep them closed to keep the blazing sun out.
If you are not going to be at home anyway - some cheapskate sites suggest using high density insulation foam. Cut some of this (available at hardware stores) into a size that fits a window. Place it there during the day (when you're not at home) and this will keep the light and heat out - helping to keep the place cooler.
Now that we have the Sun under control (or as much control as mere mortals can have over the Sun) let's move on to other sources of heat...
Most frugal kitties out there will already use high effeciency/low heat light bulbs. Some lamps still use heat producing incandescent bulbs. Keep these turned off unless really needed (i.e. for reading).
Other sources of electric heat are electronics. Computers, DVD Players, Televisions, Video Game Consoles, Smart Phones, Tablet Computers, Laptops - when plugged in - they all produce heat (and waste electricity). Once charged - unplug. When not in use - unplug. Feel the back of the computer that you are reading this on - warm eh? Keep these electronics cold when not in use.
In the hot summer - try cooking outdoors. Use the BBQ for grilling/roasting. Take the toaster oven outside onto your balcony or patio - as long as there is an outlet for it - it works out there. Same with the slow cooker (crock pot). If you have a hot plate (i.e. a portable stove element) - take that outside too. Let the heat from these appliances join the heat from the Sun, let their combined heat frolic in the backyard, away from your indoor living space.
As a Frugal Cougar - I already only launder in cold water (for spot stains requiring hot water - I spot clean those and then use cold water wash). No sense wasting hot water and heating up the house from a hot water wash.
Once those cold clothes are clean, go visit our friend, the Sun, outside. Hang your damp laundry on a dryer rack (you can use the indoor one, just put it on the patio or balcony) or lay it over your patio furniture. The hot sun will have those clothes dried in no time. The dryer creates a lot of heat and uses a lot of electricity. Let our buddy, the Sun, do the drying for free outside.
In the washrooms - run the fan on low. This will suck up and vent out the hot air. Turn on some floor fans when you are at home. Circulating air is cooling.
Keep all interior doors (to bedrooms/dens) CLOSED, especially those on the south side of your home. This helps keep the hot air (which comes through the windows/walls) out of the main living areas of your home. In the cooler evening - you can retire to these rooms, even open a window (as long as the air is cooler outside than inside).
If it is really getting hot in there, despite all the above tips - bring out the big guns. Freeze water in old milk cartons/jugs, recycled pop bottles or recycled sour cream containers. Place these water-filled, frozen containers in front of a blowing fan. The air will pick up the cold and you can just relax in the chilled breeze.
Finally - when you are ready to go to bed - find the coolest place in your home. I know folks who use their basements during the hottest days of the summer - like camping in their own home. If you don't have a basement or need the sleep hygiene of being in your regular bed - close the bedroom door. Have a table or floor fan in your bedroom. Grab another block of ice from the freezer and crack the window open to let the cool night air in. Wear cotton jammies (or be like this Frugal Cougar and just sleep in panties and a cotton tank top). You will get a good nights sleep and not have to endure so much summer heat.
Oh, one more thing - for my fellow cougars who are having hot flashes (or "power surges" as I like to call 'em) - use those camping ice packs in your bed. Really. I know a few cougars who have tried this and they all swear by it. These packs can be picked up a Canadian Tire or even Dollar Stores.
Happy Summer. Til next time.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Miss Chatelaine.
Unlike one of my favourite Canadian singers - kd lang - I am NOT "Miss Chatelaine" kd lang could not explain why she's "Miss Chatelaine." I am fully aware why I am not....
To tell the truth - I don't read most popular magazines. Not that I don't like reading. My favourite magazines are professional journals and Scientific American. It's just that I don't like reading a magazine that is almost all literally advertising. What is not literally advertising are articles and photo spreads that might as well be advertising.
I work full time outside the home. I commute almost an hour each way (on public transit of course :)) I have two young children, both in elementary school. I have a husband. I have a cat. I have a home to maintain. I don't have time to make a beautiful dinner (laid out on shabby chic plates). I don't have time (or money) to shop for the latest designer fashions and worry about the perfect hair colour and style for a a woman who is cougar aged. I am not interested in the sweetest little picture frames and candle holders to decorate my mantle. I have no desire to have an "outdoor room" of patio furniture which costs more than the couch in my living room.
Chatelaine, Good Housekeeping, Canadian Living, Family Circle, et al show the good life (with the purchase of all the good products) as a normal expectation.
It is little wonder that consumer debt is at an all time high. It is not surprising that we are all so stressed.
Close the magazine. Remember my first post - You don't need to be the fictional images seen in Women's Magazines to be fabulous.
As for meals, try this: It's a weekday. It's just the immediate family. You've worked 8 plus hours and want to spend some down time with the ones you love. The Frugal Cougar gives you permission to open a tin of No Name deep brown beans, make some rice (or make toast) and steam some veggies (or make a simple salad). Viola - protein, carbs and green stuff. Have an some apples and bananas for dessert. Don't worry - the Martha Stewart Police Squad will not raid your home and take over. It's okay to have simple, inexpensive food for a meal.
You don't need expensive take out. You also don't need to be a sous chef every single day. Relax. Be frugal and be content.
As for clothes and hair. Think about this: The Frugal Cougar is 43 years old. I've got a little gray hair. What colour is it suppose to be???? I'm middle aged. I've had a C-section for each of my children. I work at a high stress job. Yeah - I'm thinking I've earned a few grey hair. I refuse to dye it and I refuse to think that looking like I'm 30 (when I am a decade and a bit older) is normal.
I wear comfortable, clean clothes in good repair. I try on a pair of thrift store jeans and think - does my cougar ass look good? Are the jeans a timeless boot cut (no big flares and no pencil legs - these get dated quickly)? Are they well made and does the colour/style look good on me. If the answer to these is "yes" - then I buy the jeans. I don't care about the brand. I don't care about the trends. I go for classic and timeless. If I wanted trendy - I might try an accessory (on sale, of course). But I don't need "Chatelaine" telling me what to wear.
Wear what you like. Wear what looks good on you. Be tidy. If wearing clothes for work - be professional. Relax. Be comfortable in your own style choices.
As for decor. Let this sink in: Think of your grandparents home. They probably had the same couch for 40 years. They had pictures on the walls (probably a few of you!). They had some decorative items that they acquired over the years. They DIDN'T feel the need to completely change their decor every few years to keep up with so-called trends. Your grandparents were wise. Emulate them.
Find something better to read than glossy advertisements (in the form of women's magazines, catalogs, sales fliers, etc). I like suspense novels, science fiction, romance, essays, science writing, social economics/psychology, and local history. Go to the library. Avoid the magazines (except those that don't concentrate on massive advertising and fluff). Spend time browsing materials that give you information, entertainment, and insight without making you feel that you need to go out and buy something.
When you stop comparing yourself to "Miss Chatelaine" - you will be more comfortable and more satisfied with your life and your own way of doing things without the constant enticement of buying more and more.
BTW - the Frugal Cougar's dear husband enjoys photography. He advises that there is beauty in everything. If he was let loose in your home - he would photograph whatever it is that you have so that it would look like it graced the pages of a magazine. You are "Miss Chatelaine" already! :)
Unlike one of my favourite Canadian singers - kd lang - I am NOT "Miss Chatelaine" kd lang could not explain why she's "Miss Chatelaine." I am fully aware why I am not....
To tell the truth - I don't read most popular magazines. Not that I don't like reading. My favourite magazines are professional journals and Scientific American. It's just that I don't like reading a magazine that is almost all literally advertising. What is not literally advertising are articles and photo spreads that might as well be advertising.
I work full time outside the home. I commute almost an hour each way (on public transit of course :)) I have two young children, both in elementary school. I have a husband. I have a cat. I have a home to maintain. I don't have time to make a beautiful dinner (laid out on shabby chic plates). I don't have time (or money) to shop for the latest designer fashions and worry about the perfect hair colour and style for a a woman who is cougar aged. I am not interested in the sweetest little picture frames and candle holders to decorate my mantle. I have no desire to have an "outdoor room" of patio furniture which costs more than the couch in my living room.
Chatelaine, Good Housekeeping, Canadian Living, Family Circle, et al show the good life (with the purchase of all the good products) as a normal expectation.
It is little wonder that consumer debt is at an all time high. It is not surprising that we are all so stressed.
Close the magazine. Remember my first post - You don't need to be the fictional images seen in Women's Magazines to be fabulous.
As for meals, try this: It's a weekday. It's just the immediate family. You've worked 8 plus hours and want to spend some down time with the ones you love. The Frugal Cougar gives you permission to open a tin of No Name deep brown beans, make some rice (or make toast) and steam some veggies (or make a simple salad). Viola - protein, carbs and green stuff. Have an some apples and bananas for dessert. Don't worry - the Martha Stewart Police Squad will not raid your home and take over. It's okay to have simple, inexpensive food for a meal.
You don't need expensive take out. You also don't need to be a sous chef every single day. Relax. Be frugal and be content.
As for clothes and hair. Think about this: The Frugal Cougar is 43 years old. I've got a little gray hair. What colour is it suppose to be???? I'm middle aged. I've had a C-section for each of my children. I work at a high stress job. Yeah - I'm thinking I've earned a few grey hair. I refuse to dye it and I refuse to think that looking like I'm 30 (when I am a decade and a bit older) is normal.
I wear comfortable, clean clothes in good repair. I try on a pair of thrift store jeans and think - does my cougar ass look good? Are the jeans a timeless boot cut (no big flares and no pencil legs - these get dated quickly)? Are they well made and does the colour/style look good on me. If the answer to these is "yes" - then I buy the jeans. I don't care about the brand. I don't care about the trends. I go for classic and timeless. If I wanted trendy - I might try an accessory (on sale, of course). But I don't need "Chatelaine" telling me what to wear.
Wear what you like. Wear what looks good on you. Be tidy. If wearing clothes for work - be professional. Relax. Be comfortable in your own style choices.
As for decor. Let this sink in: Think of your grandparents home. They probably had the same couch for 40 years. They had pictures on the walls (probably a few of you!). They had some decorative items that they acquired over the years. They DIDN'T feel the need to completely change their decor every few years to keep up with so-called trends. Your grandparents were wise. Emulate them.
Find something better to read than glossy advertisements (in the form of women's magazines, catalogs, sales fliers, etc). I like suspense novels, science fiction, romance, essays, science writing, social economics/psychology, and local history. Go to the library. Avoid the magazines (except those that don't concentrate on massive advertising and fluff). Spend time browsing materials that give you information, entertainment, and insight without making you feel that you need to go out and buy something.
When you stop comparing yourself to "Miss Chatelaine" - you will be more comfortable and more satisfied with your life and your own way of doing things without the constant enticement of buying more and more.
BTW - the Frugal Cougar's dear husband enjoys photography. He advises that there is beauty in everything. If he was let loose in your home - he would photograph whatever it is that you have so that it would look like it graced the pages of a magazine. You are "Miss Chatelaine" already! :)
Friday, June 27, 2014
The Sweet Smell of Frugality
I usually bought antiperspirant on sale (no more than 2 buck a stick). However, after speaking to a friend who was concerned about the amount of packaging and waste of standard, store bought deodorant - I thought I would find a more eco-friendly alternative which was also more frugal.
I searched on-line and learned about coconut oil and baking soda.
I had some coconut oil, which I used in cooking. I took a few tablespoons of this and added enough Baking Soda to make a thick paste. I keep this Coconut oil/Baking Soda paste in a little plastic container in my washroom.
I tried it on a "home day" at first. I was impressed. I didn't stink (always a good thing when using deodorant). I was also dry as a dust in a salt mine. In fact - I was uncomfortably dry. I needed to use a little coconut oil first under my arms, THEN add the coconut oil/baking soda paste.
I tried it on a work day (I have a job that is a mix between desk and activity and I can work up a sweat). Still dry. Still no stink.
I actually need to wash my clothes LESS as they continue to smell neutral (sometimes a faint coconut smell) after wearing them. This is even more environmentally friendly and saves myself even more money on laundry (including the laundry soap, electricity, wear and tear of the machine, wear and tear on my clothes and time).
Multi-win solution - the Frugal Cougar is pleased :)
I usually bought antiperspirant on sale (no more than 2 buck a stick). However, after speaking to a friend who was concerned about the amount of packaging and waste of standard, store bought deodorant - I thought I would find a more eco-friendly alternative which was also more frugal.
I searched on-line and learned about coconut oil and baking soda.
I had some coconut oil, which I used in cooking. I took a few tablespoons of this and added enough Baking Soda to make a thick paste. I keep this Coconut oil/Baking Soda paste in a little plastic container in my washroom.
I tried it on a "home day" at first. I was impressed. I didn't stink (always a good thing when using deodorant). I was also dry as a dust in a salt mine. In fact - I was uncomfortably dry. I needed to use a little coconut oil first under my arms, THEN add the coconut oil/baking soda paste.
I tried it on a work day (I have a job that is a mix between desk and activity and I can work up a sweat). Still dry. Still no stink.
I actually need to wash my clothes LESS as they continue to smell neutral (sometimes a faint coconut smell) after wearing them. This is even more environmentally friendly and saves myself even more money on laundry (including the laundry soap, electricity, wear and tear of the machine, wear and tear on my clothes and time).
Multi-win solution - the Frugal Cougar is pleased :)
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