Meal Planning and Budget Cutting

Meal Planning and Budget Cutting

As a mother of five children, grocery shopping can sometimes be a nightmare on the check book. Four out of five of my children are , it is scary at times, but my nine year old daughter can eat nearly as much as my teenage sons. I needed to devise a plan to get my shopping bill in check, and do it fast.

1) Plan out your meals!

You can do this by the week or by the pay period. My husband and I get paid every two weeks so I sit down and plan out my meals for two weeks at a time. (This has also saved me from the daily question, “Mom, what is for dinner?” which can be ever so annoying!) I simply write it out and then place it on the refrigerator. I always know what to pull out of the freezer every morning, I never have to think about what to make and I don’t get hounded by all five of them wanting to know what we are having every day. This has been a sanity saver.

2) LISTS!

Don’t ever go to the store without a list of what you need in hand! Because you have already planned out your meals for the next week or two it is very easy to look at that meal plan and figure out what you will need for ingredients for those meals. Simply list them out and add in the other essentials, dish soap, shampoo, etc.

3) Take a calculator!

I know, this sounds like a hassle but it has cut my grocery bill in half. I have never walked out of the store without overhearing at least one person saying to their partner, “I need to do that.” Keep a total of everything you put in your cart. You will be amazed at what you don’t throw in there because you don’t want your total to go higher. (You will also be amazed that the things you don’t splurge on are the things that will also expand your waistline, not just your bill!)

By following these three simple steps I have cut my grocery budget down to $500.00 a month whereas before it was nearly $1000.00! That’s right, a family of seven really CAN have a food budget of $500.00 a month and actually eat better than we did when I just shopped without a plan or budget in mind.

Some friends of mine find it beneficial to go to an all cash system when food shopping. They simply determine what they feel they will need for the monthly food budget, pull the cash out in advance and refuse to write a check or use a card, whether it is debit or credit for their grocery budget. When the cash is gone the cash is gone! Others have a very hard time with this because you are never sure when an emergency will arise and hate that feeling of failure when they need to pull out the extra cash or use the card. This system works great for some and not so much for others.

Coupons are always a great way to save extra cash at the grocery store. Again, couponing works great for others but not so much for me. I work full time outside of the home and when I am home with the kiddos and the hubbie I don’t want to take away any extra time cutting coupons when it can be spent with them.…

Negative Effects of E-Commerce

E-commerce can be a great way for a small businesses to increase their sales and widen their reach. It’s also convenient for consumers, who can buy at their convenience, without having to leave their homes or spend the day fighting queues at the shopping mall to pick up the best deals. However, e-commerce also has negative effects on both consumers and retailers that must be kept in mind before launching an online shop.
Privacy
It is easy to collect a lot of personal information from a consumer using an e-commerce website, sometimes too easy. Since all online transactions are recorded, it’s relatively easy to create an online profile of the buyer, and use that to send targeted advertisements. However, many will agree that this is an intrusion on a consumer’s right to privacy, and it’s something that is heavily regulated on many countries. This means small businesses aiming to establish an online presence using e-commerce need to be aware of the legislation that applies, as mistakes can be costly both in terms of fines and customer trust.
Security
Another negative effect of e-commerce is its effect on consumers’ security. Online transactions are inherently more insecure than those conducted in person because there’s no way to guarantee that the person making the payment is the actual owner of the credit card used. At the same time, when the customer inputs the payment information they risk a third party intercepting it if the website doesn’t comply with the adequate security measures, giving rise to credit card fraud and identity theft. Merchants need to be aware of the risks electronic transactions carry, and work towards securing the systems to the highest standards.
Price Wars
Merchants used to selling at their shop may often find selling online an extremely competitive marketplace. Their products are displayed alongside competitive offers, often from different countries or bigger retailers with access to better wholesale prices. This can affect the retailer negatively, as they cannot sell as much as they expected to actually make a profit, or the consumer’s when online stores cut corners in order to become more competitive or products are purchased from illegitimate retailers because they had the best price.
Returns And Complaints
Selling online means usually a higher return rate on products than when the purchase was conducted in person. This is due partly to the fact that customers haven’t seen the goods in person prior to purchase, but also to the fact that many online shoppers buy things on impulse, and by the time they receive them at their home they have changed their mind and make use of favourable return policies. While a big retailer would have no problem accommodating this, it can be highly disruptive for a small business with limited stock management.…

3 Ways To Update Your Style With Rampage Shoes

It doesn’t take a fortune to modernize your wardrobe and Rampage shoes have just the look to help you emerge from your home fabulous.

At a time when everyone is experiencing beauty on a budget and asking “just how low can you go” we discover affordable selections that transform our look into trendy and modern. You see, you’ll discover that this line fits every lifestyle. No matter which career you enjoy (or don’t) there’s a shoe to update your style.

There are 3 ways to effortlessly update your style;

” Rampage Fortune Boots – I love, love, love these boots! Leather black boots that are tight at the calf with a square toe and medium chunk heel. Here’s why you need them; these type of boots slim your legs and the medium-sized chucky heel makes the boot much more comfortable and manageable throughout the day. If you walk a lot the heel is what keeps you balanced with comfort. The square toe gives you room and allow your toes to relax, normally, not stuffed and fighting for space. Pair this knee-high boot with a dress just above the knees and you’ll take your look from good to “good-golly miss molly!” – that’s what my grandpa use to call it.

” Rampage Lucy or Marvel – Rampage shoes offer you old style Glamour. What I adore about these shoes is it’s roomy, comfortable and gives a bit of look at my sexy colored toes. Wear jeans paired with a soft sweater and these shoes; or a pencil skirt or a simple dress because these shoes will sell the outfit.

” Rampage Heavyn – sweet glossy flat with a decorative bow and modest low heel. These are the ultimate get-up-and-go I can run anywhere, do anything shoe. Every woman needs this shoe; goes with everything. It’s a work shoe, a weekend shoe and can be a party shoe, depending on your outfit.

Many of us are overwhelmed with our hurried way of life; “I don’t have time to sit and think about which goes with what. I need shoes that have a vested interest in my closet.” We don’t want to say and most won’t admit it but really, who has the time to worry about pairs and combinations? I mean, we all love fashion and want to keep up with the times but I need a clone to get everything completed during the week.

I think every woman should be blessed with several shoes that go from minimalist to uptown classic to downright glamorous and I’ve found that Rampage shoes not only assemble the collection we need but all of the shoes are affordable.

There is not an outfit in your closet that can’t be combined with a pair of Rampage shoes. The best part of this collection is the concept of these shoes. Look closely at several styles – they all feature that on-the-go approach. Nothing complicated just feminine with a touch of sophistication. But these shoes stand out because of its uncomplicated designs and they fit every woman’s lifestyle.

Take it from a shoe diva, this collection is totally thumbs up.…

Shop Online and Get Great-Looking Accessories at a Steal

Browsing and shopping on the web for jewelry, watches, and other accessories to polish off a look or to give as gifts to close friends and family can offer many benefits. Online shopping can save customers fuel, time and energy lost walking to and from retail stores. Great deals are also offered by many online merchants. Whether you’re thinking of small items like little trinkets and cufflinks or designer jewelry pieces, you can discover how to save money shopping online at xmas. With a myriad of hot and innovative designs on accessories and apparel on offer, fashion shopping online comes with far less aggravation than if you’re to battle it out with crowds during holiday sales.
This Christmas season, you need not despair because online sites offering fabulous accessory finds are coming to the rescue. Try visiting retail companies offering a plethora of high fashion brands of accessories at special rates. Some online companies specializing on quality apparel usually pick out the best styles to polish off your holiday look. When shopping for Christmas presents, cash-strapped consumers also turn to coupons or credit card reward points to save money. Special coupons used for transacting have a number called the promo code. By using these coupons, web shoppers get to enjoy cost savings. Let’s say your heart’s set on purchasing a pair of sequined flats, a chic and feminine timepiece bearing a quality brand, silver plated necklace or stacked bracelets, or a special messenger-style bag, among others. Even if only one or two of these items are all you can afford, you can still enjoy savings from special deals offered online. Simple yet stylish pieces of jewelry/accessories
The cutest boots and pendants, fashionable aviators, or one-of-a-kind sneakers and the loveliest bags may be purchased online at a steal. To learn how to save money shopping online at xmas, keep browsing and checking out company websites with a clearance section. Even by using keywords of brands you are fixated on may lead to useful product information and land you in sites of stores offering discounts on authentic goods. Check the prices along with the product descriptions and photos, and develop a keen sense of spotting good buys. Happy online shopping!…

Surveillance Cameras in Malls Are Necessary

Surveillance Cameras in Malls Are Necessary

Mall areas that have access to large number of people all at a time must have surveillance cameras. These are places that are most prone to criminal activity. In shopping malls, a large number of people gather, because of the benefit of variety of stores under the same roof. So you cannot differentiate a criminal if he intermingles with the shoppers. Surveillance cameras are thus very necessary in shopping malls.

Nowadays shopping malls are spread across a lot of area. It has multiple floors, with various facilities as movie theatres, restaurants and gaming zones. Security people may not be able to deal with. So it is most logical to have cameras installed in various areas and a small crew working behind the cameras.

The most common thefts are of costly goods and money from shoppers. The surveillance camera can at once record suspicious activity and control thefts and pick pocketing. It can also help in solving kidnapping or murder cases. I can cite you an example- in Mumbai, India, a journalist was shot from point blank range in front of a departmental store in Powai. The CCTV footage from the surveillance camera of the departmental store gave the pictures of the murderers, thereby providing key evidence to the investigation.

Not just helping in criminal activity, the surveillance cameras increase the sense of security of the customers. The customers stand assured that no one can escape by misbehaving with them. Employee activity can also be monitored, and the employees will be cautious that they have to do their jobs properly. Not just the employees, even the thieves are cautious that they might get caught, and may abstain from criminal activity.

It is also very important to install the cameras at proper places. Because of the expanse of the mall, security can be a challenging task. It gets harder if it has a way to get connected to public transport or has a large parking area. Also all malls have restricted areas and staircases out of view. The surveillance cameras can solve the problem easily and fast. The cameras can find out the exact location of criminal activity and have security sent to that specific area.

When you have the mall installed with close-circuit cameras, do remember to have them invariably at the entry and exit. Apart from this, parking lots are also to be monitored because a lot of criminal activity takes place there. Staircases that are out of sight must have cameras. Big lobbies, food courts, places that hold big gathering of people, must have surveillance. Loading and unloading areas are also prone to criminal activity and should be monitored.

Nowadays smart cameras are available that can detect any unclaimed object. Install them in food courts, and lobbies. Cameras with motion sensors are also more preferable in entries and exits.

Surveillance cameras are often under accusation of being misused but noting its myriad benefits, this accusation does not stand too strong. Surveillance cameras for malls are a must!…

Shop Online Smarter With These Tips And Tricks

If you are seeking an item to buy, it’s a good idea to start looking online. Sadly, you may also encounter huge prices or shipping charges which cause you to only do research, not to purchase. If you check out the tips below, you can turn yourself into a smarter, more frugal online shopper.

Look around for coupon codes before making online purchases. Lots of online retailers provide discounts and coupons, which can be found with a single search. Search for the store name along with the word “coupon” to get excellent discounts. This is perfect for saving money online.

If you are looking for the best coupons, consider signing up for the newsletters of the stores that you love the most. Many stores offer valuable discounts for new members. These stores will continue to offer special deals to their loyal customers. This can result to significant savings over time.

Don’t give any information to sites you don’t know and trust. Look for the symbols from Cybertrust or Verisign to ensure that these merchants are not scam artists.

Try to use sites for shopping searches that just use shopping results when you search with them. A regular search engine works, but you have to sift through lots of unrelated sites. Shopping search sites can help you find the product and compare prices all in one page.

Make sure you read the product page thoroughly before making a purchase. Review the product description thoroughly, noting the size and other details, to make sure that it is exactly what you need. Remember that the photo might not exactly match the item.

When you shop online, consider waiting until the holidays to make your non-urgent purchases. Certain holidays will make sites have a lot of sales in regular stores, but online stores are participating most of the time as well. Therefore, you may receive special deals and/or free shipping on the holidays.

Keep an eye on the address bar for a small gold lock; this ensures you’re on a secure site. This indicates that the merchant has taken measures to keep your information secure. Nothing is foolproof, but this is as close as it gets.

Sometimes items that have been refurbished are called surplus inventory. If you see an item that has been refurbished, read the description to see if it is overstock or whether it has been repaired. Checking for refurbished items can help you locate incredible deals.

Coupon codes are available from many online stores that allow you to register for email alerts or their social media accounts. Newsletter signups or liking Facebook pages takes mere seconds and you’ll most likely get more information on good future deals.

Froogle is one website you can use to comparison shop. This will allow you to get great deals on items that you love. However, sites like do not necessarily include all online stores. If they don’t turn up the results you need, keep searching.

You just need a bit of commitment when it comes to lowering your online shopping costs. This article is the beginning a new life filled with frugality. Now you know how to get a bargain online all thanks to reading this. So, start using these tips to shop smarter online.…

All About the Styles of Celtic Engagement Rings

For many people, engagements and marriage come with many years of tradition. For the Irish, Celtic engagement rings beautifully symbolize the true spirit and meaning of marriage. They have become very popular rings due to a combination of their amazing style partnered with their uniqueness.
Here are some steps to help you select a Celtic ring;
1. Metal – The first thing you want to decide on is the type of metal for your ring. The three types of metal to choose from are Gold, Silver and Platinum. Generally each of these will be fine, however, with some gemstones you may find that one of the above metals is better suited than another.
2. Design – Once you’ve selected the metal for your ring, it will be moulded into a traditional Celtic pattern of your choice. This is a very exciting part of the process as it can really help you create a unique engagement ring.
3. Gems – The final step of the process is to select a gemstone for your ring. When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds are the most common gemstone to use. Additionally, you may decide you want one big center stone, or you can even intersperse smaller stones throughout the Celtic pattern. You could even decide that you want a big stone in the middle as well as some smaller stones around the pattern. You truly have a lot of freedom so you can ensure you design the perfect engagement ring for you.
All in all, when it comes it engagement rings, the Celtic style is one that can be truly unique and make the next chapter in your life all that more special!…