Our recent saves

Just thought I'd pop in with a quick list of some ways we have saved this month, it's amazing to see all the little things that we do that add up.

1. Skating banquet: Didn't go, it was going to be 15-20/person!
2. hampden fair: Last year we spent at least 100.00 because the rides are 3/each. That adds up quickly for all the kids, then they want their face painted, something to eat, games, etc. So we just didn't go, we did go to the shaull fair, but we kind of had to, since it was so promoted at their school, but we tried to keep it cheap!
3. haircuts: I am giving myself another perm this week, saving at least 75.00! I did it before and it looked really good, but it needs touched up and since I bought the rods and stuff, I only need the solution. I get it at the beauty supply and have their card, so i get the discount. I am also cutting both boys hair this week saving about $25.00.
4. Fairy Festival: I really wanted to go to this, but between the distance, the cold weather and the fact that you have to walk so far from the car to the festival, I decided that spending the $100 it would cost us to park, get in , and then for face painting and food wasn't worth it. I would like to go next year, I am going to look into setting up a booth and hopefully make enough to pay for the day and break even!
5. I decided not to renew my membership with MANA for now, a midwife group or pay the 50.00 fee to be listed on their referral site. So I am saving about 150.00. I may change my mind later because just one referral per year would more than pay for it, but right now, I have a slow period and outstanding balances so i am trying to cut down.
6. I am returning my breast pumps and supplies since they are not doing anything but costing me money. That will save me 120.00 month. I hope to get about 100.00 back in the supplies, so I will in no way break even, but at least I can cut my losses and invest my time in stuff that will make more money. Even if I rent out the pump, I only make about 40/month after expenses, so it's not worth all the effort.
7. My husband, megan and I signed up for a legit mystery shopping company and they have some nice assignments. Right now, we are signed up for free haircuts and free meals at friendly's. We also put in for a free meal at Benihana's, a japanese restaurant that is really cool and really expensive (they will give us 100.00 in meal expenses!). if we each get the assignment, I am going to try to go when my family is visiting.
8. for megans graduation party, we are asking everyone to bring a potluck item and their own chairs. My amish do this and have no problems with it. I figure that my friends will totally understand and if others are offended, then that's just too bad, but I am not going to spend 1000 on a party! My friend told me to remind megan this isn't really a party, but rather a fundraiser! The goal being enough money to pay us back (I think she owes us about 300 now), fix her air conditioning in her car, and pay for the fall semester of hacc.


I think that's it, at least all I can remember off the top of my head, i will be back later with more, plus a list of goals we have to further save money and/or make more money!