How to save money on your energy and support the NSPCC at the same time Energy is rarely out of the news and we’re often told to switch suppliers to save money. That is very sage advice given that new data reveals that 60% of all households in the UK are on what’s known as the ‘Standard Variable Tariff’ and paying several hundred pounds a year more than necessary. If your energy supplier is one of the ‘Big Six’ of nPower, British Gas, EDF, … [Read more...]

Now that I have two older children I miss the handmade cards. They now have the money to buy me their own Christmas present which is lovely. But when I get the tree and decorations down from the attic I find reminders of their younger years.  The cards they made at school, the tree decorations they made from toilet rolls and glitter. Some of the simplest ideas are the most effective as these Fingerprint Christmas Card Ideas show. These … [Read more...]

Christmas can be an expensive time for many families but it is really important to keep perspective. Many children do not add the same materialistic expectations onto their presents that adults do.  I know of parents who add up the value  of every present just to ensure that they have spent the same on each child.  This is not my approach I buy what the children have asked for (within reason) but don't feel I need to make it exactly the same.  My … [Read more...]

Nature provides some of the best materials for craft activities.  My house is surrounded by pine trees and therefore I am always looking for ways to use pinecones when decorating the house.  One of the selling points for this house was the view from my backdoor.  We are surrounded by protected trees and I never bore of watching the squirrels run and play in them. Other people may find treasures on the beach, be it driftwood or shells.  All these … [Read more...]

Are you looking for an adrenalin filled activity which encompasses  both Halloween and Fireworks? Then look no further than Gung-Ho Bristol which takes place at Ashton Court Gate on Saturday October 29th from 3pm.  The 5K spooktacular run has a series of obstacles including slides.  It promises fun for all the family. The 5K inflatable obstacle run has thrown in ghosts, ghouls and the undead. Along with the run there will be spooky activities, … [Read more...]

I am not sure about everyone else but this week seems to have flown by.  It was a very busy weekend with the MAD Blog Awards - I didn't win my category of thrifty but had a wonderful night nonetheless especially as one of the fab co hosts of the linky was by my side.  Becky did win Outstanding Contribution which was just wonderful and it was an absolute joy to see her take center stage. So my frugal things this week: First up has to be … [Read more...]

Hello! Thank you so much for having me guest post today. My name is Maggy and I love to craft over at Red Ted Art. This time of year I get VERY excited!! I get excited, because it is Autumn Crafts for Kids season!! Woohoo! Christmas and autumn are my two most favourite craft season for kids. I think it is because I had strong childhood memories of getting crafty at this time of year AND because there are so many lovely things to make AND so many … [Read more...]

How much do you reuse things in the home? I am quite thrifty (obviously) I am always chasing a bargain and I am always look at what can be used or reused when it has outlived its original purpose.  I learnt this from dad who is so handy.  As we grew up birthday and Christmas presents were often homemade.  My Sindy house was so much better than any shop bought wooden house, mine had wallpaper and carpet that matched our home.  My dad apparently … [Read more...]

It was so inspiring to read how others are being frugal and we thank you for joining in last week.   This past week I have been so inspired by all things money saving and I cannot wait to read how others have saved this week. Here are my  Five Fabulously Frugal Things I’ve Done This Week Saturday saw me heading to the UK Money Blogggers Conference and the SHO MO's and although I am stretching the concept of saving a little bit by … [Read more...]

How much do you spend on your appearance and is it money well spent?  I personally spend more on my appearance now than I ever have done.  I buy more clothes - they are high street but I am happy to buy what I want.  Just this week I popped into Next to buy some jeans and had Erin with me and she loaded up her arms with what she called 'stylish clothes'.  I indulged her as she did need some autumn wear.  She looks very cute in what she picked … [Read more...]