Getting in Shape on a Lean Budget

 

The weather’s warming up and we’re finally able to strip off all of those bulky layers. The only downside is the nasty shock, when we see what’s lurking underneath. For countless reasons, many of us tend to put a greater focus on exercise, as the mercury rises. Of course, getting fit can be quite an expensive endeavor – but it doesn’t have to be. Just give it a bit of thought and consideration, before you pull out the plastic. It’ll help you trim the fat in more ways than one.

Look Sharp

·         Tripping over baggy clothes and standing out like a sore thumb is not motivating. You’re more likely to keep at it, if you invest in suitable attire i.e. good runners, a sturdy exercise bra and appropriate work-out clothes.

·         Pick up active wear at big box stores, not designer boutiques. You want to look and feel the part, but spend the absolute minimum.

·         Purchase sparingly at the outset. Buy a few basics to get you started. Rotate outfits and launder frequently.

·         Reward your commitment with incremental wardrobe purchases, as your exercise program develops i.e. at the 3 month and 6 month mark.  

Gear Up

·         Share equipment amongst reliable friends, family and/or colleagues. It’s a great way to try new activities without spending a dime.  

·         If your tendency is to start strong and tail off, pursue activities with low equipment demands i.e. running or yoga.

·         Invest only in the basics, at the outset. Add all the bells and whistles, as things develop. Start small and expand after the time, and dedication.

·         Rent or purchase second-hand exercise equipment during the honeymoon stage. Buy the good stuff only after you’ve demonstrated a long-term commitment.

·         Don’t expect a large financial investment to serve as motivation.

·         Utilize wellness programs with your company’s insurance carrier - they often contribute to equipment costs and/or pay towards gym memberships, annually.

Join In

·         Club memberships can be expensive and often aren’t utilized to their full extent. However if it works for you, shop around for a gym that’s super-convenient, reasonably-priced – and avoid hard-to-cancel contracts.

·         Consider cheaper options like community centers, municipal gymnasiums, local pools and school facilities. They tend to offer seasonal classes or one-offs, as opposed to demanding costly, long-term agreements.

·         The Village People aren’t the only ones to sing the praises of the YMCA. It’s open to all denominations and offers state of the art equipment, at cut-rate prices.

·         Exercise DVDs and video streaming are excellent alternatives to structured classes. They require minimal investment and these home-based sessions fit easily into your regular routine.

Stay Flexible

·         It’s good to schedule regular exercise, but fitness doesn’t have to be regimented to count. Keep it fun and exciting by incorporating social activities like hiking, bicycling and golf.

·         Participate in team sports offered through school or work, or organize a game of baseball or street hockey with friends and neighbours.

·         Sign up for your favourite charity run, bowl-a-thon or volleyball tournament. You’ll support a good cause and get fit even faster.

·         Don’t shy away from physical activity in general. Take the stairs. Walk to the dry-cleaners. Do some housework. Don’t let yourself off easy because you already worked out today.

My last piece of advice is to avoid a radically changing your exercise program, on a regular basis. Variety is good, but perseverance is better. Stick with your plan long enough to enjoy the benefits, and both your body and pocketbook will thank you.

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Complaining Effectively to Avoid Unnecessary Spending

 

Many of us think of complaining as a bad thing. For the most part, that’s an accurate assessment. Other people don’t want to hear your problems and resent the unsolicited negativity. However, it is important to know when to speak up and how to do so effectively – especially when it comes to dealing with service providers. If you don’t ask for what you want, you can lose out and pay a lot more than is necessary.

Whether you’re shopping for clothes at a boutique, getting your car repaired at a local garage, or negotiating a cable package from a large conglomerate…knowing how to politely question, persist and even insist, can make a huge difference regarding how much money you can save each and every month.

Prepare to Engage:

·         Choose your battles and don’t sweat the small stuff. However if there’s a large sum of money at stake, or you feel a business is overcharging you repeatedly, speak up.

·         Have all bills, receipts and relevant information close at hand. This not only provides proof of purchase, but is also good for referral purposes, during your discussions.

·         Research, compare and know what competitors offer. Be ready to provide evidence to back your claims (i.e. copy of an advertisement, website address, etc.).

·         Decide what type of compensation you expect prior to any discussions. What’s a fair solution (i.e. future discount, partial rebate, or full credit)? Work toward that goal.

Take Action:

·         Keep cool, logical and don’t stress. Never swear, belittle or raise your voice.

·         Use friendliness and humour (sparingly) to bring others onside. People tend to help people that they like.

·         Questions are less confrontational and yield more information than statements or accusations. Honey attracts more bees than vinegar.

·         Leverage past loyalties to the brand, as well as your future commitment to the business.

·         If you sense that your kindness is being mistaken for stupidity, calmly and gradually move to a more firm stance. Escalate where necessary.

·         Persist and always ask what more they can do for you. Be relentless.

Avoid Future Issues:

·         Still no joy? Shop with your feet. If they don’t care about your business, go to a provider that does. It may seem like a hassle on occasion, but it’s well worth it in the end.

·         Regularly review prices, rates and offers, wherever you shop. Stay on top of what you’re being charged for services and don’t get complacent. Otherwise, it could cost you.

·         If you get stellar service, be sure to comment and provide referrals. Let good businesses know they are appreciated and reward them with your loyalty.

Most of us would rather avoid confrontation. We often find it easier just to let things slide – but that can get expensive. Getting your fair share needn’t be unpleasant. Simply incorporate the tips above and you’ll be amazed at how much money you save.

For more great day-to-day savings ideas, please follow this blog on http://champagnelifebeerbudget.blogspot.ca/

 

Bouquets fit for a Queen, at Flower Girl Prices

 

Spring is in the air. Flowers, trees and plants are about to burst into bloom, and that means Mother’s Day is just around the corner. Hence, the gift of a little greenery seems the natural way to honour mom on her special day. That being said, botanicals can fluctuate wildly in price; So it pays to be smart about your purchase and shop around.

Where to Buy:

·         Floral boutiques can be quite tempting. Arrangements are ultra-luxurious and buying is a snap (particularly for out-of-town gifts). However, know that you will pay a hefty premium for the convenience.

·         Shopping online is an excellent alternative. There’s a plethora of less expensive options for moms near and far -- and you can surf the net in your PJ’s.

·         For large or multiple purchases, floral wholesalers are the perfect choice. Starting prices are very reasonable and you’ll be rewarded handsomely for volume buys.

·         Most grocery and convenience stores stock a fabulous array of plant life, at rock-bottom prices. Some even offer free delivery.

·         Do you have bushels of blossoms languishing in your own back garden? Why not put them to good use? No gift is more personal than flowers you grew yourself.

·         Wildflowers are the sentimental choice and a lovely option, especially when money is tight.

What to Buy:

·         If mom has a green thumb and prefers a gift that lasts, potted plants are a great choice. Additionally, many flowers, herbs and luscious greenery are versatile enough to be enjoyed both indoors, and out.

·         Floral arrangements are best for those less herbaceously inclined. They provide immediate gratification, require minimal work and are perfect pick-me-up for apartment or condo dwellers.

·         Dried, fabric or plastic flowers are out of fashion at the moment, and not great feng shui. Stick to live plants for the occasion. Remember, Mother’s Day gifts should never be ‘practical’ in nature.

·         No matter what you purchase, stay within budget. Buy bunches of simple flowers, or a few exquisite blooms – depending upon her preference. Be sure to choose favoured colours and bright, jaunty arrangements suitable for the occasion.

Presentation:

·         Offering flowers wrapped in paper is acceptable, but be aware that it’ll require more work on the recipient’s part (finding a suitable vase, trimming stems and arranging).

·         A more considerate and impactful way to present a bouquet is to pop them into a pretty vase or container:

o   You can find surprisingly impressive vases at the dollar store, for a mere pittance.

o   Pick up a stash of inexpensive vases for year-round use at discount outlets or warehouse sales.

o   Discover unique or unusual containers at flea markets, or garage sales. Such vessels allow for more innovative and customized arrangements.

o   Recycle your own superfluous vases, without shelling out a dime. Just be sure they’re clean and intact.

·         Whether you’re presenting flowers in a simple vase, or an extravagant jardinière, arrange them beautifully. Insert stems one at a time, trim on the outside. Carefully balance flower types and colours, and ensure your bouquet doesn’t appear sparse.

·         A pretty ribbon can go a long way in providing the final touch. Coloured tissue and cellophane help create an even more stunning display. All these can be purchased from your local dollar store.

·         Create floral gift cards from business card stationary. Office supply stores have appropriate designs for hand-written messages, or you can custom-print on blank business cards.

Pretty blooms provide a classic and greatly appreciated gift on Mother’s Day. It’s the ideal way to thank mom for all that she’s done for you, throughout the years; But it doesn’t need to be extortionate to be impressive. With a little thought and effort, you can dazzle and delight, without going in the red.

For more timely and ingenious money-saving tips, please follow http://champagnelifebeerbudget.blogspot.ca/.

Look Like a Million Bucks without Spending a Fortune

Years ago when I began buying beauty products, I regularly reached for the cheapest option on the shelf. As a starving student, fancy makeup was an indulgence I could ill afford and this often meant opting for chalky powders and waxy creams – many of which just didn’t last. About a decade or so later, my eureka moment happened. I was travelling and my compact got smashed. Due to the dearth of selection near my hotel; I was forced to splurge on a high-end face powder. Instantly I realized I could never go back to the ‘kewpie doll’ look again.

The next challenge was to find my favourite products at a reasonable price. Then I discovered department store beauty give-aways. Every few months, major chains provide generous bonus ‘gifts’, when you purchase name brand cosmetics. For example buy $60 of Estee Lauder make-up and get $175 worth of product thrown in for free. These offers often include a mix of high-end, like brand cosmetics, toiletries, creams, attractive makeup bags, and/or purses. It may seem a lot to spend on a wand mascara and tube of lip gloss, but when you consider the entire offer, it is the smart way to shop. You can quickly accumulate a plethora of top-shelf toiletries, for the same price as comparable products from discount lines. You’ll also receive several impressive extras.

Assuming I’ve convinced you to give cosmetic bonuses a chance -- let me share a few tips to get the most out of these lucrative offers:

·         Request to be on department store ‘beauty offer’ mailing lists, for advance notice of cosmetic giveaway dates (via post, email or phone).

·         Choose bonus offers where you’ll use at least 50% of the gift. If most of the extras aren’t any good to you, it isn’t much of a bargain.

·         Ask friends about their favourite cosmetics and occasionally try competing brands. You might discover a new preference and it’ll provide you with multiple bonus opportunities, year-round.

·         Lux department stores may require the biggest initial outlay, but gifts tend to be far superior. Prioritize upscale store giveaways.

·         Avoid buying beauty items in-between special offers. If you plan well, you should have few purchasing emergencies.

·         Track inventory and replenish, but don’t stockpile toiletries for too long. Cosmetics don’t stay fresh forever.

·         Share lipstick colours and superfluous items that you’ll never use with friends and family (or put them in a bag for your next charity drop).

·         Don’t get married to any one brand. Sometimes the less costly option is just as good. No need to splurge, if it’s not necessary.

Sometimes we get stuck in false economies. Buying cheap generally offers minimal satisfaction and the product often comes up short on results. Practice these simple steps and you can indulge your preferences, look your absolute best and keep your cash in your wallet.

For more great money saving ideas, please follow me on http://champagnelifebeerbudget.blogspot.ca/.

Stocking your Freezer with Delicious Home-Made Meals

As we bid farewell to February and usher in March, the long winter days can seem never-ending. So why not take advantage of this extra time to get organized and ahead of the game? Jump-start your year by preparing homemade frozen meals for school lunches, family dinners and entertaining -- you’ll eat healthier, spend less and it’ll reduce a great deal of your day-to-day stress.

Chill Out, Winter is the Perfect Time to Defrost the Freezer.

• Gradually deplete long-standing frozen food stocks (especially commercially prepared products), a few weeks prior.Place delicate food items in your fridge-freezer, during the thaw.
• Stack remaining food in coolers or plastic bins, and place inconspicuously outdoors. Secure lids well, so inquisitive critters can’t gain access.
• Hair dryers, rubber mallets and blunt chisels are great tools to expedite your thawing efforts. Proceed carefully and gently, to avoid accidents or damage.
• Defrost within twelve hours to minimize spoilage.
• When finished, restock your freezer in an organized and logical manner…and don’t forget to plug it back in.

Starved for Inspiration?

• Devote an entire day or weekend to cooking -- and little else.Plan the dishes you’d like to prepare, ahead of time. Include healthy options, personal favourites and a good variety, to stave off boredom.
• For greater efficiency and cost effectiveness, prepare food in reasonably large batches.
• Thaw out any meats and stock plenty of fresh vegetables, pulses and starches, the day before your cook off.
• Have lots of spices, herbs and sauces at the ready, to maximize taste.
• Sample mains: spaghetti bolognaise, sweet and sour chicken, vegetable curry, lemon trout, peanut pork, mushroom risotto, sweet pepper beef, etc.
• Sample starches: wild rice, whole wheat pasta, naan bread, rice noodles, spaetzle, polenta, jasmine rice, etc.
• If need be, refer to library cookbooks, your own stash of recipes, or the internet for further inspiration.

Savvy Storage.

• Purchase inexpensive, transparent (plastic or glass), stackable, single-portion containers for freezing.
• Preserve food texture and taste, by placing starches in small separate containers (away from meats/vegetables/sauces). This also allows for different food combinations i.e. curry and rice, curry and naan, etc.
• Store similar items together to help identify and locate meals, with ease.
• Colour code or label containers to eliminate potential confusion.
• Reheat within the same vessel for delicious no fuss meals, in minutes.

Enjoy the Fruits of your Labour.

• Access whatever you want to eat, whenever you want it, for weeks to come -- without spending a dime.
• Improve your diet by preparing plenty of healthy, vegetable laden options to choose from.
• Never get caught off-guard by unexpected company again. Rest easy knowing that you have a wide array of meals available, at a moment’s notice.
• Avoid wastage by utilizing aging fridge ingredients to create more delicious frozen dishes.
• Create a never-ending supply of choice meals, by cooking a few additional dishes, every couple of weeks.

By following these simple steps you’ll eat better and stay on budget, with much less fuss. For more great ideas on how to save money and live better, please follow “Leading a Champagne Life on a Beer Budget“.

Enjoying Valentine’s Day Together

 

Some people avoid Valentine’s Day like the plague -- and with good reason. But if you’re in a loving relationship, you’ll likely feel compelled to show your partner that you care on February 14^th. So is there a way to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day, without stressing out, or splashing out? Just follow these few simple steps and true romance will be yours!

Pick up a Card

• It’s the least you can do. Really, the very least.
• It doesn’t have to be schmaltzy or fancy…but trust me, this small effort will go a long way.
• Save trees or make your stand against commercialism another day -- these are pretty transparent excuses for not doing the absolute minimum.
• eCards don’t count. Going to the store too onerous? Begrudge spending a few bucks on your partner? Perhaps it’s time to revaluate the relationship.

Dining on Valentine’s Day

• Valentine’s one of the busiest days of the year for the restaurant industry. If you dine out on Feb 14^th you’ll pay top dollar, the service will suck and you’ll be lucky to get a mediocre meal. Avoid, avoid, avoid!
• Pick an alternate night to celebrate, if you want to treat yourselves to an evening out on the town.
• For an intimate meal, order in, or cook something simple together.
• If you do decide to eat in, don’t allow one person to slave away in the kitchen, whilst the other dines alone -- that‘s no fun at all.

Romantic Activities

• Plan a cozy night in without the kids, TV, computers, phones or other daily distractions constantly bombarding you.
• Go for a couples massage. You can often claim the expense through your insurance and it’s a relaxing treat for both of you.
• Take in a romantic movie.
• Visit a local attraction, art gallery, or museum together.
• Do what you love as a couple -- go night skating, learn to snowshoe, dance, walk or go bowling. All you need is a little imagination.

Keep Gifts Small and Sentimental

• Valentine’s gifts aren’t crucial, but the right trinket can earn you a lot of relationship points.
• Presents needn’t be expensive. A nice bottle of wine, a favourite candy or pretty bunch of flowers are excellent examples of appropriate gifts.
• You can also impress with less by picking up a well chosen book, collectable, or novelty item for that special someone.
• Lingerie is a risqué and a risky purchase -- and it’s often more for the giver, than the receiver. My advice is to play it safe and focus on love, not lust.
• Avoid expensive jewellery, unless you’re flush with funds or about to get engaged.

One last tip -- be gracious and considerate of others on Valentine’s. Not everyone is madly in love. Although friends may be happy for you, know that there’s a fine line between sweet…and saccharine. Finally, enjoy the day for what it is and don’t put too much pressure on yourself!

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Get Home from Your New Year's Party Easily, Safely and Inexpensively

Who amongst us hasn’t spent hours frantically trying to hire a cab, on New Year’s Eve? At that point, we’d pay just about anything to get home expeditiously. It’s a nightmare that most of us are very familiar with, yet we repeat the process year-in and year-out. So how do you avoid that frustration, while staying on budget?

Driving isn’t a great idea, because many of us want to celebrate the season with abandon (and drinking and driving is simply out of the question). Public transit may be the answer, but if you’re not close to city routes, or you’ve missed the last bus or train -- the journey home could be a long and dangerous one. Most of us prefer to take taxis at New Year’s because it’s often the most convenient, reasonable and safe way to get around, especially when we‘re all spiffed up. But that’s precisely why taxis are so hard to hire on New Year‘s.

This year, why not book an airport Limousine for the festivities? That’s precisely what we do when we just can’t miss that all-important flight; So why not give our holiday celebrations, just as much forethought and gravitas? Limousines are far more luxurious than taxis and generally cost the same, or even less. Share the ride with your fellow partygoers and it’s a no-brainer. All that’s required is a little extra planning.

Step 1: Book the Limousine

• Choose a departure destination for your group (i.e. your apartment).
• Decide upon pick-up times both to, and from, the party (i.e. 9:00pm and 2:00am)
• Have the party address on-hand for the call.
• Book a few days in advance, to ensure availability.
• If there are more than four people in your party, hire additional Limousines.

Step 2: Gather the Troops

• Ask the members of your party to be at your departure destination at least 15-30 minutes before the Limo is scheduled to arrive.
• Provide drinks, nibbles and music to make the wait more enjoyable.
• Inform everyone that the Limo will leave as scheduled -- with or without them.

Step 3: Skip the Nightmare

• Keep an eye on the clock around the time your Limousine is expected for pick-up (and lookout for it‘s arrival).
• Have your group ready to go at the appointed time.
• Enjoy a safe, economical and luxurious ride home with your friends.

For more great ideas on how to live well and avoid overspending, please click ‘follow’ on
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