Lifestyle

(Style on a Dime) Sending holiday greetings on the cheap

Wednesday, 25 November 2009 15:26

I am embarrassed to confess that there is one aspect of the holiday season that makes me feel a bit anxious, and I know that it will begin happening any day now. I am talking about receiving that first holiday greeting card in the mail from a friend or family member. While I thoroughly enjoy hearing from my loved ones, my anxiety level usually increases slightly with each greeting card that our family receives. Sounds crazy, right? (I agree-Help me Lord!)

Clean, orderly pantry supports holiday success

Friday, 13 November 2009 16:58 Marcia Humphrey

For most folks, November marks the beginning of the festive feasting season, which usually lasts until January. Most households have already started stocking their pantries with their favorite herbs and spices, fresh bottles of pure vanilla and lemon extract, sugar, cornmeal, and cans of cranberry sauce, chicken broth, and evaporated milk. All of these items are purchased in anticipation of upcoming gatherings, where family and friends come together to thank God for the year’s blessing.

(Style on a Dime) Proverbs 17:17: A friend loves at all times

Thursday, 05 November 2009 16:12 Marcia Humphrey

Lately I have noticed that my younger daughter, Arianna, is changing. At nine-years-old, I find her growing taller than she was a few months ago, wanting to express her unique style and newfound tastes in everything from clothing to room décor. Most importantly she has been on a quest to find that perfect best friend. Although she has friends, she is still looking for the one upon whom she can bestow the title of bff, best friend forever. She has been trying a few on for size and learning a lot in the process.

(Style on a Dime) Learning a new language

Thursday, 29 October 2009 15:54 Marcia Humphrey

When my oldest daughter was just three-years-old, I signed her up to attend a Spanish Immersion preschool twice a week. At the time we were living in Chicago, and it seemed that similar language schools were popping up everywhere for children of all ages. Having curiosity, but very little understanding of the immersion concept, I was both uneasy and excited the first time I walked into the classroom and observed the instructor speaking only Spanish to the children.

(Style on a Dime) Waste not, want not: Squeeze out the savings

Friday, 23 October 2009 15:10 Marcia Humphrey

I want to know if your mama is anything like my mama. See my sixty-something-year-old mama (who would ’whup me if I gave her actual age), doesn’t believe in being wasteful. This means when she buys toothpaste, she is able to squeeze out every last drop from the tube. Her bathroom is always filled with upside-down lotion and shampoo bottles lining the sink.

(Style on a Dime) Dinner + Movie = Savings!

Monday, 19 October 2009 17:24 Marcia Humphrey

First, my girlfriend in Chicago called me raving about it. Then my girl, Beverly, who lives here in the cities, told me all about it while we were having lunch last week. Knowing how much a deal means to me, naturally they were excited to make sure I was aware of the newest strategy to get my hubby to splurge on dinner and a movie (not that my man is cheap, so don’t start spreading rumors. We’re both just frugal.). If you too want to treat yourself to a nice meal at a great discount, then I want to let you in on my favorite new deal called www.restaurant.com. At this website you can purchase gift certificates for restaurants across the nation at savings of 50% or more! Do I have your attention yet? Good!

(Style on a Dime) Save money by staying healthy this winter

Tuesday, 13 October 2009 15:50 Marcia Humphrey

Last week my entire family got flu shots in efforts to stay healthy during this year’s cold and flu season. This is the first time I have ever had the shot because I am kind of old school when it comes to taking medicines. I believe in things like castor oil, garlic, and spicy soups for curing what ails our clan. But with the flu virus getting more vicious with each passing year (let’s not even talk about H1N1), I thought we’d give it a try this time.