Friday, September 25, 2009

Easy At Home Spa Tricks

Hi! Sorry I haven't been here in a few days, been behind.  Glad to be back.

Try these spa tricks at home to remedy some problems areas on your face and scalp.

1. Soak up oil on a greasy scalp by sprinkling with a little baby powder.

2. Deflate puffy eyes with a cold spoon. Place spoon in the fridge for awhile, then close your eyes and       hold back of the spoon against lids.

3. Steam-clean your pores with a bowl of boiling water. Boil on stovetop or heat in microwave until boiling. Sprinkle in a couple drops of essential oil  or loose dried herbs like lavendar or rosemary. Place face down over bowl of hot water, hold a towel over your head to make a tent, and let the steam draw out all the impurities and open up your pores.  It will probably open your sinuses too!

4.  Moisturize dry patches on knees, elbows and feet with a dab of olive oil.
source:allyoumagazine
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Bible verse for the day: 
Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind
Ecclesiastes 4:6
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Tuesday, September 22, 2009

A Poem: I Dream........of an Afternoon Nap



Good morning and Happy First Day of Fall!  It's hard to believe that summer is officially over.  I don't know where it went, do you?  Well anyway, I'm ready for the Fall.  Today, I want to share a poem I wrote last night when I was thinking about when I was a little girl.  To read it, click on the title above: A Poem:  I Dream of an Afternoon Nap.  I hope you can relate to it in some way.

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An afternoon nap is free and it is simple, but it
can bring you a new perspective on things.
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Bible verse: Matthew 11:28 (New International Version)
28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

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Monday, September 21, 2009

click here to Learn about the Flu

Happy Monday!  Alot is going on the area this week!  I'm going to just do a list of some of the events to look for.

Did you know?
Today is National Alzheimer's Awareness Day - wear purple to support!

The new Ampitheater at the Spartanburg Library is named after long time local Radio show host - Bill Drake!
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1.  Friday night, Sept.25 - 6PM- Free movie, popcorn,drink  (Ghosts of Girlfriends Past)

2.  Sat. Sept. 26 - all day- Downtown Inman - Annual Harvest Day

3.  Sat. Sept. 26 - during Harvest Day - Friends of the Library Book Sale - big variety of all types of books, dvds, etc....at low prices........stock up for winter reading or gifts.

4.  Sat. Sept. 26 - 7PM at Sptbg. Library - kickoff program for THE BIG READ month long community read.  Free laser light show.  Receive your free copy of book - Farinheit 451.

5. click on this link http://www.samsclubmemberservices.com/fanfavorites.aspx to read about Sams Football fans event this weekend at Sams.  Special savings, recipes, etc...............................
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Bible verse for today:  When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other.  Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future.  Ecclesiastes 7:14 NIV

Until tomorrow.............................................
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Sunday, September 20, 2009

International Festival @ Barnet Park-Sat. Oct.3 (free admission)

Good morning,
Reminder of the International Festival on Oct. 3rd.  Click link to see full details on event.

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Today and everyday, give God Thanks!

Thursday, September 17, 2009

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Good morning!  Wow, next Tuesday is the first day of Fall.  Where did the summer go?

Getting the best price on a gallon of gas isn’t the only way to save big at the pump. Don’t ignore the check engine light. According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), an out-of-sync car can consume 3%-8% more gas than a well-maintained vehicle, which adds up to hundreds of dollars in extra fuel over the years. Make sure your ride has inflated tires, clean oil, good spark plugs, and a clean air filter. And don’t lug around unnecessary baggage in your car; the extra weight actually eats up gas.

You should also use the Internet to find the cheapest gas in your neighborhood. Web sites such as GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com keep track of gas prices in a number of cities.


Feel like you’re being taken for a ride by your car repair place? Look to the next generation of mechanics for help. Some colleges and vocational schools have on-site auto repair shops open to the public. While you still have to pay for parts, you’ll get a huge deal on labor costs. Students are guided by an instructor who supervises every step. (See related article: 10Money MistakesWomen Make).

Cosmetics

Not ready to go fresh-faced just to save a few bucks? Relax: A girl can have her lipstick and wear it, too:
“Gift with purchase” is your friend. There’s no need to forgo the products you like, but do buy them wisely. Wait until there’s a special offer with your cosmetics/skin care line, then stock up. Gifts with purchase allow you the opportunity to sample new products for free while spending the same money you usually would. You can also get samples from product lines with their own freestanding stores, such as M.A.C. and Aveda.

Invest in a makeup lesson from an artist at a reputable salon. You’ll earn back the money the next time you do your own makeup for an event. Plus, you’ll learn about the right cosmetics – and the right way to use them – which will prevent a drawer stuffed with barely used, rejected make.
Are You A Money Diva?

Taking charge of your own finances is the first step in building true wealth - the kind that gives you confidence, freedom and strength as a woman. Is your personal money management leading you toward financial freedom?


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Bible verse for the day:  For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith----and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast..   Ephesians 2:8

Have a great day!

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Keep Life Simple Therapy

Simlify your life and increase your chances of being healthier and happier.  Stress plays havoc with your body and mind therefore causing medical bills for various illnesses.  Destress with these simple suggestions.

  • Reduce life to it's essence. What truly matters is God, family, friends, love.
  • Learn to say NO.  Don't feel obligated to say Yes to everything people ask you to do.  You know your limits.
  • Recognize the beauty around you.  Take time to celebrate nature and the common things in life.
  • Spend some time alone each day.  It's a sure way of getting yourself together.
  • Set your desk, chair, your sink, your sights with a view to the great outdoors. Life is simpler out there.
  • Don't take life too seriously.
  • Look at cirumstances from several different angles. Look outside the box.  Don't have a narrow view.
  • Don't chase "material" things.  Seek spiritual things.  They last longer, cost less, and bring more.
  • Learn from life's oldest living things: trees.  They impressively break forth with buds and colors----but innately know when it's time to shut down and be unimpressive.



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Tuesday, September 15, 2009

10 Frugal Tips on Decorating for Fall

Good morning,

Fall officially starts next week, so it's time to start making some quick, inexpensive changes to your decor to make it have a more warm  and cozy feeling for Autumn and Winter. Hope you enjoy the following article and get some new ideas for decorating your home for the Fall.

Cool breezes, warm colors, hearty aromas! A time for the harvest and for surrounding yourself with the beauty of the changing season. Autumn is my favorite time of the year! Out doors is where I like to be in these months, so when it’s time to come back in, I like for my interior to reflect the wholesome harvest season. Check out these ten home decorating tips for bringing your seasonal senses alive this Autumn!

1. In cooler months, you need warmer colors! Look all around you to discover the harvest colors—pumpkin, cinnamon, amber, wine reds, harvest golds, nutty browns, deep salmon, etc.

2. Time to switch out that summer décor! Bring back the ornate picture frames, deeper colored throw pillows, and warmer fabrics. These items can warm up an interior when the temperature outside is dropping!

3. For my entire life, my Mother has always burned special candles in the Fall. Candles are a must! Cinnamon Bun, Hazelnut, Pumpkin Spice, Biscotti, Maple…Talk about awakening your senses!

4. Baskets symbolize giving, and Autumn is the beginning of the giving season. Ancient beliefs say that the Harvest is a time to give offerings to nature. Fill beautiful wicker baskets with leaves, twigs, or fruits! They will be a great addition to your décor.

5. Bittersweet, yarrow, berry vines, pumpkins, gourds, golden pears, dark red apples, nuts of all sorts, artificial leaves and flowers are some other great filling ideas for baskets, shelves, bowls, and vases around the house.

6. Pull out the nature inspired rugs, table top, and linens. Berries, fruits, cornucopias, stripes and patterns in any of the previously mentioned colors!

7. Switch your drapes or blinds. Prepare to keep the cold out, and do it in style! Vintage laces and crochets are a great addition to your seasonal window treatments.

8. The trees seem to age in this season. Follow that theme by switching some of your metallic furnishing (frames, lamps, chimes, hardware) from silver to brass and rust.

9. PATTERNS ARE BACK!!!! Put away your summer solids and geometrics and bring out the inviting patterns. Check out freespiritfabric.com!

10. Not many people I know can afford to repaint their walls with the changing seasons! If not, reinvent by changing out your artwork. Check out www.overstockart.com for affordable and abundant choices for you Autumn décor. Van Gogh’s Rest From Work, or Wheat field, Klimts Beech Forest, and O’Keefe’s Two Pears and Single Calla Lily are just a few ideas! Happy Harvest and Happy Decorating!!

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Bible verse:  Proverbs 24:3-4 NIV


Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms shall be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.








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Monday, September 14, 2009

Invitation to follow my Blog-correction

I would love for you to follow my blog if you are interested in doing so!  If you are so inclined, just click on Follow.  If you need help or have a question about any of my posts, please leave me a comment and I will respond as soon as I'm  able to. 

My regular Blog Post for today is under this one.  Please read.  Good info today.

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What steps to take if you are Laid off or Lose Job

Good morning!  Hope your weekend was good.  If you will look to the left of this post, I've got a poll question listed, Do you think Gov. Sanford should resign?  If you have time, please vote.

If you've been laid off or just lost your job, there are some steps you should take to minimize the effects you are suffering.  Hope these help in some way. 

FIRST, PRAY AND ASK FOR GOD'S HELP AND GUIDANCE AND KNOW THAT HE WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS:
  • If you receive a severance package, put it in a money market account (to live on as long as can)
  • Stop contributions to college or retirement savings.
  • Stop paying any extra on debts...etc..credit cards, mortgage (only pay required amount)
  • Do a detailed budget of necessary household budget, cut lifestyle drastically, (drop cable, no eating out, carpool if possible to cut gas bill, drop cell phone if possible,  (these changes are just temporary until you can get back on your feet)
  • Never cash out your 401k unless you are facing bankruptcy.
  • Roll over 401k at prior job directly into a Roth Ira.
  • Don't be afraid or too proud to take part-time jobs to get some money in the household, while looking for another fulltime job.
  • Consider changing careers.
  • Don't panic, try to stay focused on just doing anything it takes to keep $$$ coming in. (deliver pizza, deliver papers, cut grass, anything short of something criminal-DON'T GO THERE!!
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Bible verse: I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Phillipians 4:13  NIV


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Sunday, September 13, 2009

Grandparent's Day is Today

Hi everyone.. I hope you are having a great weekend!  Do something nice for your Grandparent's today.  It's national Grandparent's Day.
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Today I have a simple thought to share but is deep in meaning.  Just give it some thought.

"Learn to value spiritual things over material things.  They last longer, cost less, and bring more."

Have a blessed day.........................until tomorrow.




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Saturday, September 12, 2009

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Best times to shop for certain items

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Diana Watson from Fox Carolina News has some good info on her blog abouth the best time to shop for items and save money. Thought I would 'borrow it' in case you didn't hear it during the 10pm news.



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By Diana Watson

Do you have a big purchase in your future?

If it’s a grill, patio furniture, or playset… you are in luck. Those items are marked down big-time right now. Stores are trying to get them out of the way to make room for things like Halloween decorations and Christmas trees!

If you plan your big item purchases in advance, you will save hundreds of dollars a year.

For instance, the best months to buy furniture are January and July, just before new shipments arrive.

If you are in the market for baby products, experts say you’ll spend less between February and April when retailers offer the most sales.

And… when it comes to jewelry, there are good and bad times to buy. The busiest months in the jewelry business are November, December, February and May. You know what that means? Higher prices.

If you want to save, July is the sweet spot for diamond buyers. It’s a slow time of year for the jewelry stores, so they’re more willing to negotiate.

Just a few ideas… for some seasonal savings!

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BIBLE VERSE:Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Dave Ramsey's $999 giveaway for the next 8 days

Hi and Happy Friday!  I apologize for not posting yesterday.  My intention was to get to it last night, but stuff happened.  I'm going to make it up to you by giving you a chance to win $999 for the next 8 days starting today.  Dave Ramsey has a $999 giveaway and all you have to do is enter 1 time each day for the next 8 days.  Each day a lucky person will win $999.  Here are instructions:

1. sign on to http://www.daveramsey.com/

2. click on box for $999 give away

3. fill in info that says 'required' only.  Mobile phone # is not required.  Leave it blank

4. click on submit,  you're entered!  Your chance is just as good as anyone, so enter!

5. contact me if you have questions.

There is no obligation involved, so Good luck

Today's Bible verse to think about:  A man of perverse heart does not prosper;
     Today's         he whose tongue is deceitful falls into trouble.  Prov: 17: 20 niv

God bless you.  Hope you have a great weekend!

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Rule of Three

Shopping Tip: Remember the "rule of three". If an item can be used in three different ways, you will not be wasting your money.

A Meditation:
"I see God in every human being. When I wash the leper's wounds, I feel I am nursing the Lord himself. Is it not a beautiful experience?"  --Mother Teresa

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Roth IRA or Traditional IRA- pros and cons

Didn't the weekend fly?  They all do.  I trust you had a good Labor Day.  Back to work, drats.

In case you've wondered what the differences are between a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA, I'm listing some below.  Either way, an IRA is a great way to save for Retirement, which I hope you are doing.

ROTH IRA-Advantages
  • protects retirement earnings by having an early withdrawal penalty
  • there is no mandatory withdrawal age
  • all earnings and contributions are 100% tax free when withdrawn
  • principal can be withdrawn at any time without penalties
  • available to single filers with income up to $95k
  • married couples with combined income of up to $150k
ROTH IRA-Disadvantages
  • money put in (principal) is made after taxes are paid (not tax deferred)
  • it does not lower your income on taxes when filed
  • contribution limit is $5k per year
TRADITIONAL-Advantages
  • what you put in lowers your taxable income when you file
  • earnings grow taxfree
  • protects your retirement money by having an early withdrawal penalty
TRADITIONAL-Disadvantages

  • earnings are taxed at withdrawal
  • contribution limit is $5k per year
Hope this helps.  I did the Roth, since you can withdraw principal (what I put in) without a penalty.  I also like the fact that all of money in the account is tax free when I take it out.


Bible verse:  Proverbs 28:20


A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished. 
 
Have a great day!

Monday, September 7, 2009

Get your coupon for Free 12 count Canker Melts at Walgreens or RiteAid

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Happy Labor Day!  Don't forget to stop by a Chick-fi-la today to get your FREE chicken sandwich.
Don't forget, you have to wear a team logo shirt, hat, socks.......apparel to get one.  I hope you're having one last fling this weekend before Fall hits later this month.

Check out the title above that says GET YOUR COUPON (at the top of this post)  to get your coupon for a free 12 count package of Canker melts at Walgreen's or RiteAid stores.  Coupon is valid through 9/15.  There are some other good offers available today at this link.  There is a free sample of Exoderm cream available too.  Check it out!

Bible verse:  A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.  Proverbs 13:22.

Enjoy your day!

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Day of Rest

Sorry I didn't post today.  The Lord said to rest on the Sabbath, so I did.  Until tomorrow........

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Tips for saving on Food

Today, I want to share easy tips to reduce your monthly food bill.

1.  Buy a water filter, and make your own  bottled water.

2.  Make dinners that are left over friendly.

3.  If you buy soda, buy the liter bottles instead of cans, they are cheaper per unit price.

4.  When eating out, share meals, and drink water

5.  Reduce meat consumption (especially red meat)  It is bad for you.

6.  Grow your own vegetables, and herbs.

7.  Eliminate fast food and cook your own meals.

8.  Take your lunch to work or school. It's cheaper and you're more likely to eat less calories.

9.  Use coupons

10. Buy generic brands

11. Eat lunch or early dinner when eating out.  You can save on eating the lunch menu items.  It's also      
      better to eat earlier in the evening.

12. Buy cheat coupons on Ebay.

13. Don't buy prepackaged cheese.  Have the deli slice for you.  You get more for your money.

14. Collect vegetable scraps, bag, and keep in freezer. Use in soups.

15. Always take a list to the grocery store and stick to it!  Don't buy on impulse.

16. Never grocery shop while you're hungry.  Go after eating!

Hope some of these help!  We've all heard them before, we just need to DO them to save money.

Bible verse:  On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.
1 Corinthians 16:2

until next time..........................Have a blessed day!

Friday, September 4, 2009

Minimalist Living 101

TGIF!!   In these days of over-abundance and the mentality of want, want, want.......I long to simplify my life as much as possible.

Here are 3 ways to start simplifying:
   
    1. Evaluate possessions sitting on your shelves.  Think about how much to actually need or use them. Think about the cost of replacing it if need be.  What you don't need or use, give or throw it away.

    2. Find a place for everything.  If you have too much stuff just sitting around, find a home for it.  This will make your home look less cluttered.  You will have a sense of control if everything is in it's place.

    3. Enjoy what you have.  Get rid of the junk, and enjoy those possessions that were worthy to stay in your home.

Bible verse:  And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
Phillipians 4:19

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Start your Journey to Financial Peace

Good morning,

Bible verse:  Keep  your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.  Hebrews 13:5

For those of you who don't know who Dave Ramsey is, you need to.  He gives financial advice on TV and Radio. He is the expert on how to become free from debt. 


Locally he's on the radio (106.3 FM) from 6:00-8:00 PM.  Listen some time.  You can learn alot listening to caller questions and hearing Ramsey's answers and advice.  You can also call in or Tweet your own questions to him.


From his book, The Total  Money Makeover, I'm going to list his 7 Baby Steps.  Do these in the order listed and you're on your way to Financial Freedom!


1.  Start saving an emergency fund of $1,000.


2.  Pay off all debt using the Debt Snowball (This means that if you have several debts on credit cards, medical bills, student loans, etc.... start paying them off by concentrating on the smallest debt first, make minimum payments on all bills but that one and knock it out as quick as you can.  Make the largest payment you can on the lowest debt and get rid of it.  Then move to the next lowest bill.  Do the same thing as above and keep going until you have all extra debt paid.  Then don't charge anything else.  Pay with cash only or a credit card ONLY if you are disciplined enough to pay it off IN FULL every month.


3.  After you have accomplished the first two, then start saving 3 to 6 months worth of expenses, should you be laid off or lose your job.  You could survive while you are looking for another job.


4.  Invest 15% of household income in Roth Ira's or pre-tax retirement accounts, (ex. 401K, 457,403b)


5.  Save College funding for kids


6.  Pay off house early ex. make an additional principal payment each month, or refinance if you can  get a lower interest rate.


7.  Build wealth and give!
    Invest in mutual funds and real estate


These are great goals and can be accomplished.  Just start and go about it as suggested above.  After you complete each step,  you'll be encouraged and feel good about yourself.  It just needs to be done in this type of structured way, so that you have clearly set rules.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Free Samples Online

Happy  Wednesday!  Halfway to the weekend................. I love Wednesdays!

Bible verse for the day;
Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.  {Proverbs 10:4}

http://www.heyitsfree.com/
Try out this website for all kinds of free samples in many categories like, health, beauty, children, pets, food, etc............... I started back in Jan 09, and go to the site occasionally to sign up for samples and have accumulated enough stuff to fill up stockings for 4 people for Christmas.  The best thing is it's all free.  I won't have to buy stocking stuffers and the items are practical gifts they can use.  Examples of a few of the things I've received are scope, toothpaste, feminine products, small cereal boxes, lotions, dog food, cold medicine, and many others.  Try it out!

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Good morning!  Today I have a couple of things to tell you about, free food and how to see shows free at the Chapman Cultural Center.

#1- Labor day, Sept. 7th, at all participating Chick-fi-la's, you can get a FREE chicken sandwich if you wear a shirt, hat, or socks with a sports team on it!  Support your favorite team and get a free sandwich.  This starts at 10:30 AM and lasts until supplies run out, so get there early!

#-2- Have you visited The Chapman Cultural Center's David Reid Theater for a show yet?  This facility is a great asset for Spartanburg County and surrounding counties.  The fall season of shows start at the theater on Sept. 11 with the musical My Fair Lady with many great shows to follow.

If you're interested in seeing the shows FREE, you can do that by becoming a Volunteer at the Cultural Center.  If you become an  Usher for a show, you get to watch it free, which is generally a savings of around $28 dollars, (the average price of an adult ticket for most shows).
********************************************************************************* If you are interested in being a volunteer, there will be a Volunteer orientation on Saturday, Sept. 12., at 10am at the Cultural Center.  They still need ushers, tour-guides, clerical help, and front desk greeters.
RSVP to jbenjamin@spartanarts.org if you plan to attend the orientation.  Last year, they had 115 active volunteers that gave over 4,000 volunteer hours. 

Visit http://www.chapmanculturalcenter.org/ to see complete details of shows, events, and other venues at the Cultural Center. This link was down this morning.  Hopefully it will work later today.

Bible verse for the day:  All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23 NIV
Hope you have a great Tuesday!