And Then We Saved http://andthenwesaved.com Saving Where We Can, So We Can Spend Where We Want. Thu, 23 May 2013 21:14:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 The Latest Over at Babble… http://andthenwesaved.com/the-latest-at-babble/ http://andthenwesaved.com/the-latest-at-babble/#comments Thu, 23 May 2013 04:58:51 +0000 Anna Newell Jones http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=4864 I’ve had the pleasure of being a contributor over at Babble for the last couple of months and wanted to share some of my favorite posts from this month that I thought you might enjoy. I’d love for you to check them out! Save Money and Time with Freezer-Friendly Meals No More Mortgage! How to [...]

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babbleI’ve had the pleasure of being a contributor over at Babble for the last couple of months and wanted to share some of my favorite posts from this month that I thought you might enjoy. I’d love for you to check them out!

Save Money and Time with Freezer-Friendly Meals

Spending Less on Family Trips- 5 Tips

Cut the Bull- Talking to Tweens About Money Management

Get the Cash for Kid’s Activities Quick!

How to Not Go Broke Trying to Afford Childcare

Should You Help Your Teen Get a Job? 

5 Tips for a Kid’s Bedroom Makeover on the Cheap!

 

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]]> http://andthenwesaved.com/the-latest-at-babble/feed/ 0 We’ve Got Some Big News, Y’all! http://andthenwesaved.com/big-news/ http://andthenwesaved.com/big-news/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 17:32:43 +0000 Anna Newell Jones http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=4776 I’ve been bursting with nerves and excitement waiting for the perfect time to make the BIG announcement, and today is finally the day! We’ll be having a baby in November! I remember sitting in the bathroom with THE STICK and seeing the result and not believing my eyes. I was thinking I should probably look [...]

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baby announcement

I’ve been bursting with nerves and excitement waiting for the perfect time to make the BIG announcement, and today is finally the day!

We’ll be having a baby in November!

I remember sitting in the bathroom with THE STICK and seeing the result and not believing my eyes. I was thinking I should probably look at Pinterest to find some clever way to tell Aaron but yeah right, there was no way I was going to be able to wait. I was shaking when I walked into the living room to show Aaron what I had just seen. I looked at him with stunned eyes and pushed the stick in his direction. We were both like, “Uhhh… no way!”

I proceeded to take 3 more pregnancy tests and Aaron took one too just to make sure it wasn’t a weird batch we had gotten. Aaron’s not pregnant;) but all of mine said the exact same thing as the first.

The whole thing has felt really surreal and I still don’t even feel like it’s actually me when I hear myself say, “I’m pregnant”. It’s really an out-of-body experience. I’ve been wanting to have a baby for a really long time… it’s always other people who are pregnant… not me. My heart would ache a little when I found out others were pregnant, and not because I wasn’t happy for them, of course I was! But, I was also a little sad for me. For the mamas still waiting for your babies to come, I’m sending you a hug, and please trust that your baby will come when the time is right…

We’re going to go for the big surprise and not find out the sex of the baby and we’re also going to try to do the minimalist baby thing (bare minimum on the baby gear, 2nd hand and used items) so, we’ll see all that how that goes!;)

We’re so happy to share this news with you all, and I’m looking forward to hearing about all the tips you have for me about what stuff we really need and what stuff we totally don’t need…?

With love… feeling happy and blessed, xo, Anna

p.s. isn’t this funny

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]]> http://andthenwesaved.com/big-news/feed/ 51 51 Things to Spend Your Money on Other Than Gas http://andthenwesaved.com/51-things-to-spend-your-money-on-other-than-gas/ http://andthenwesaved.com/51-things-to-spend-your-money-on-other-than-gas/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 04:00:02 +0000 Lauren Mikus http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=4814 There are more exciting places to take your money than the pump! The current cost of gasoline is averaging around $3.80 in Denver and DC, $3.90 in Portland, $4.00 in LA, and $4.10 in Chicago.  That means that you urbanites dwelling in these cities and beyond are spending at least $50 a month in gas.  Here at And Then We [...]

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51 things to spend your money on other than gas

There are more exciting places to take your money than the pump!

The current cost of gasoline is averaging around $3.80 in Denver and DC, $3.90 in Portland, $4.00 in LA, and $4.10 in Chicago.  That means that you urbanites dwelling in these cities and beyond are spending at least $50 a month in gas.  Here at And Then We Saved, we practice “Saving where we can, so we can spend where we want.” So it’s all about utilizing public transportation, hopping on your bike, or commuting – if the distance is less than 10 minutes by car – just walk.  Plus, we need at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted exercise per day anyways!

This list is based on the notion of freeing up 50 dollars per month.

51 Things to Spend Your Money on Other Than Gas…

  1. A new pair of running shoes.  It’s probably time.  Your feet will thank you!
  2. That coffee table book you’re dying to have but can’t justify splurging for.  Mine’s Assouline’s Gypset Travel.
  3. A Voluspa Maison Noir candle.  Tuberose Di Notte is where it’s at y’all.  They last for basically ever.
  4. Something thoughtful for Father’s Day.  Preparedness makes for better gift giving.
  5. A few patterns of Free People’s widebands i.e. the right kind of head gear.
  6. The specialty cooking ingredients that you find at your small grocer.
  7. Cute tee, cuter philosophy.
  8. Dinner for two. Find a new, local favorite by utilizing the Scout Mob app.  They offer savings similar to Groupon or Living Social without the investment up front.  Reduce spending on your own terms!
  9. New sheets.  Ahhhh.
  10. Aegean Blue jewels
  11. These summer shoes, for when you want the comfort of the flat but the ease and breeze of a sandal.
  12. A collodion print from the work of Denver native Kristen Hatgi Sink.
  13. This crocheted kilim bikini top from Billabong to pair with any solid pair of bottoms.  To die for.
  14. A few more plants from your local nursery before it’s too late.
  15. Some reflective eyewear to follow suit this season.  Hot.
  16. REI’s Byer camping hammock, perfectly portable for all your summer adventures.
  17. A few magazine subscriptions because even bloggers realize there’s nothing that does the trick quite like print.  Start with Kinfolk.
  18. Personalized stationary.
  19. Friendship bracelets for your clan.
  20. A manicure/pedicure with a fat tip.  Treat yo’self.  You deserve it and so does your nail technician.
  21. The floppy hat
  22. A gym membership
  23. A rear rack for your bike, it makes the commute home from the farmer’s market much easier
  24. Quality headphones
  25. A fresh bottle of perfume.  I wear Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue – it’s a classic crowd pleaser.
  26. Send a flower arrangement to your friend at her office when you know she’s in need of a pick-me-up.  Never underestimate the power of a surprise.
  27. A bottle of 2009 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon.  Now that’s a good bottle of wine.
  28. A thirty-minute facial.
  29. An old record player from you’re local furniture consignment shop.  Vinyl always wins.
  30. The small (and hidden) tattoo that you’ve spent a lot of time thinking about getting.
  31. The big 1960 ring that House of Harlow has graced us with
  32. Tickets to a show for you and a beau!
  33. Patti Smith’s gripping memoir:  Just Kids.  It’s the love story of two undiscovered artists just making their way.  I usually encourage renting books at the library, but this one is so good that you’ll want to buy it and pass it along to a friend; and then probably go buy a few of her records.
  34. One of Jimmy Marble’s banners.  Ok, ok I know – these aren’t near 50 bucks.  But get two of your roommates to pitch in, and voila!
  35. Dress up your throw pillow witha case from Furbish.
  36. Also slightly over the budget, but I couldn’t resist suggesting this bright skull-tastic bracelet from The Woods on ShopGoldyn.com
  37. An annual pass to your closest national park.  My Virginia friends enjoy access to the Shenandoah mountains on a year-around pass for $30.
  38. Need your makeup done for an event?  Go to the Mac cosmetic counter and let them take care of you.  It’s complementary with the purchase of $50 worth of products.  Once you’re all dolled up you’ll know exactly what’s worth the splurge.
  39. A fabric steamer.  What wrinkles?
  40. Leandra Medine, otherwise known as The Man Repeller, suggests this patent floral mini satchel.
  41. Board games.  Yep, you heard me.  Bring the game night back.  Surrounded by the right people, Jenga, Boggle, Rummi Kub are all worthy of your Saturday night.
  42. White jeans! It’s almost time.
  43. Plush beach towels.   The bigger the better.
  44. Binoculars, for watching the stars in the sky.
  45. West Elm’s Melamine Plates - picnic ready and outdoor soiree appropriate!
  46. That insanely low airline fair on Southwest
  47. Cupcakes for the colleagues.  The craze is real y’all.
  48. Some yoga gear.  It’s motivation.
  49. A painting class.
  50. A legit picnic basket.
  51. A feast. Go to the grocery store, get fancy olives, soft cheese and crackers, a great cut of meat (if you’re into that sort of thing), some veggies, and an amazing dessert.

 

What are some of the purchases you’ve rewarded yourself with for creating new, positive habits? What do you like to spend money on other than gas?!

Pro-chance and fancy free, lifestyle blogger Lauren Mikus lives gratefully in the burgeoning city of Denver.  Soon, her website, The Serendipper will launch!

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]]> http://andthenwesaved.com/51-things-to-spend-your-money-on-other-than-gas/feed/ 6 The Key to Happiness… http://andthenwesaved.com/the-key-to-happiness/ http://andthenwesaved.com/the-key-to-happiness/#comments Sun, 19 May 2013 18:36:15 +0000 Anna Newell Jones http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=4829 Contentment is all about being okay with where you’re at and not wanting everything you don’t have. Really, I know there is no way I can be happy if I keep thinking about everything that’s not right or perfect in my life. The key to happiness and contentment for me? Wanting what I have, and [...]

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the key to happiness is wanting what you have

Contentment is all about being okay with where you’re at and not wanting everything you don’t have. Really, I know there is no way I can be happy if I keep thinking about everything that’s not right or perfect in my life. The key to happiness and contentment for me? Wanting what I have, and being okay with where I’m at in life. For me, I have to accept life for what it is. Easier said than done some days but it’s a process, it’s not about doing it perfectly… xo.

What are you glad you have today? What makes you content right here, right now? 

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]]> http://andthenwesaved.com/the-key-to-happiness/feed/ 8 PARTY DOWN! Have Fun Beach/Pool Days All Summer Long http://andthenwesaved.com/cheap-beach-day/ http://andthenwesaved.com/cheap-beach-day/#comments Fri, 17 May 2013 12:00:21 +0000 Lauren Johnson http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=3801 Summer is coming! Here in LA, the beach is a year-round option, but it’s gotten so hot lately that option has become requirement. Here’s a little round-up for a cheap beach day with some cute new things. How to Have Fun Beach/Pool Days on the Cheap All Summer Long… Most US beaches are free, but [...]

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Cheap Beach Day Under $100Summer is coming! Here in LA, the beach is a year-round option, but it’s gotten so hot lately that option has become requirement. Here’s a little round-up for a cheap beach day with some cute new things.

How to Have Fun Beach/Pool Days on the Cheap All Summer Long…

Most US beaches are free, but you may have to pay for parking, so try to carpool with friends to split the cost. Wear some cheap sunnies with full UV protection in a classic shape, even if it’s overcast. And I loved this idea from J.Crew for chopping a $5 straw hat from the drugstore into a cooler shape. Rock a Turkish pestemal as a sarong, and then use it later as a beach towel. They are so pretty and inexpensive, and seem so luxurious. Simple sandals complete the outfit. Make sure your SPF is broad spectrum, so you’re protected from all the sun’s rays. Grab a good beach read from your library if you don’t feel like swimming, and pack it in this adorable DIY tote bag. (Molly used a $17 cotton tote, but you can easily find canvas ones for just a few bucks).

Cute Swimsuits Under $50If you’re anything like me, you still have the Old Navy swimsuit you got in high school, and it’s time for an update. Here are some worthy options for cute swimsuits under $50.

1. H&M (top, $15/bottom, $10) // 2. TOPSHOP, $24 // 3. J.CREW (top, $9/bottom, $20) // 4. TARGET, $40 // 5. TOPSHOP, $30 // 6. ZARA (top, $20/bottom, $20) // 7. DOROTHY PERKINS, $45 // 8. ZARA (top, $20/bottom, $20) // 9. DOROTHY PERKINS (top, $21/bottom, $15) // 10. RIVER ISLAND, $50 // 11. RIVER ISLAND (top, $30/bottom, $20) // 12. DOROTHY PERKINS (top, $25/bottom, $15)

 

What are your favorite free beaches? Any good beach reading recommendations?

Lauren Johnson is a filmmaker/producer living in West Hollywood who enjoys a great foreign thriller, leisure beers, and non-primary colors.  Lauren also writes the blog LOCONCEPTS.

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]]> http://andthenwesaved.com/cheap-beach-day/feed/ 1 How to Coupon Like a Pro http://andthenwesaved.com/how-to-coupon-like-a-pro/ http://andthenwesaved.com/how-to-coupon-like-a-pro/#comments Thu, 16 May 2013 18:14:31 +0000 Anna Newell Jones http://andthenwesaved.com/?p=4721 It’s no secret that I’m both mesmerized and baffled by the world of coupons. That’s why whenever I get the chance to pick someone’s brain about how they coupon I take it. Also, since we have the most basic cable package available (we’re talking the $15 one) whenever I am around a TV that has [...]

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how to coupon like a pro

It’s no secret that I’m both mesmerized and baffled by the world of coupons. That’s why whenever I get the chance to pick someone’s brain about how they coupon I take it. Also, since we have the most basic cable package available (we’re talking the $15 one) whenever I am around a TV that has fancy channels like TLC I take pretty much make my husband sick with Extreme Couponing marathons. Tell me all about coupons! I mean, there is so much money to be saved and if you have the skills to work the couponing system, know the rules, loopholes, etc, well then, you pretty much have it made.

That’s why when I came across these instructional videos by Grocery Coupon Network I was hooked. This is my favorite video: Learn to Coupon in 5 Steps (here’s the link to their whole slew of informative couponing videos). Seriously, I want to be able to coupon like this lady…

Besides offering couponing instructional videos the Grocery Coupon Network has monthly contests for users, reward badges and user rankings. How fun!

 

So spill the beans… what are your couponing secrets!? 

This is a sposored post but as always, my opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the companies that help make this site possible! xo!

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