Learn from experts- who have been there!

I personally feel that schools teach us too little about personal finances and money management. When I graduated from college, I thought, well, how do I know how much I should spend on my apartment? entertainment? a car? insurance?

Needing (desiring?) to know this information, I started reading every book I could get my hands on - including Dave Ramsey, Suze Orman and Mary Hunt. I thought this was a great link that I came across today about Mary Hunt's personal story. Her story shows that there is hope for all of us.

Enjoy!

Thinking ahead: Christmas

As we approach the holidays, it is time to look at gift giving. I just found this great site where you can get gift cards at 1/2 price. Check it out: http://www.halfofftwincities.com/.

Consumer Action

This site offers advice on buying items, like a home or car, and how to finance an education. It also shares how to protect your identity and understand credit.

http://www.consumeraction.gov/


This is a blog that was share by Bobby Schmitt, husband of my friend Melissa. You may recall seeing her advice in past posts.

Go to the Goodwill

Another great place for furniture and household items is the Goodwill. I have found dishes here, items to match my current household decor and more. Good luck!

Save on furniture!

Are you moving? Don't need some stuff? Sell it on craigslist! I did this during my last move. Upon moving again, I just purchased some great furniture on craigslist- a dresser for $45 and a wood file cabinet for $20. The wood file cabinet alone was priced at $80 or more. Good deal!

Web savings

This is from my college friend, Melissa. We both worked as Assistant Hall Directors in college. She is now expecting her first child (in June!).

You can save money on web shopping by looking for codes on www.retailmenot.com.

Business suit savings

I am starting to feel "too old" for cheap business suits that you can purchase in the junior's department. I have been on a quest to get better quality business suits. I found a few ways of saving on work clothes- first, going to the outlet mall. I LOVE Guess and BCBG! However, an even better savings has been going to Marshall's. I have bought Anne Klein, and Nine West business suits for $49.99. It's been such a great deal! Enjoy!

Allergies...

I have found some great allergy helpers. A co-worker told me about the Netti Pot- which is a good rinse for your sinuses. I just found a recipe to create the solution for this- what a savings (at 100 packets box for $12) this recipe will make the solution cheaper.

1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. non-iodized salt (sea-salt, kosher, pickling)
8 oz. of water (boiled and cooled to room temp).

I also really like Pseudoephedrine. It is a cheaper substitute to Sudafed and works wonders. A new Minnesota law puts this behind the counter, so be prepared to sign for it.

Beverage savings

My new favorite thing- I get the individual serving size drink mixes. You can use these at work to add to a bottle of water, or (like me) a 16 oz. glass of water. This way, you have a fun drink for lunch. It saves $1.50-$2.00/day on beverage costs. What a deal!

Free music

Here is another submission from Erin:

www.pandora.com (awesome free music)

Please continue to share your ideas!

Reduce your loan interest rate

I am a member of Affinity Plus credit union, I would highly recommend this to others. The people are friendly and always helpful.

Recently, Affinity Plus initiated a Participation Rewards program. With it, you get points for using your debit, having an electronic deposit, etc. Then, you can use the points to lower your interest rate on existing loans. I just did this and found out that I also had a one-time option to renegotiate my interest rate. In three days, I went from a 6.75 interest rate on my car loan to 4.75 percent. Gotta love that!

Internet savings- college students

I just bought my books for school. While I was looking for my books, I found this new site called "Beat my price". It saved me $20 from using this service. Check it out! I am curious to see if you find good deals, too. You can search for virtually anything on this site. Simply know the product, price offered and compare! Enjoy!