Category: More Topics

30 More of the Worst Gifts Ever

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30 More of the Worst Gifts Ever

 

Think before you give. Check out what not to give.

30 More Worst Gifts Ever

Editor’s Note: A small screw up in editing led to Anna’s advice being divided into two separate posts. It looks like I should have combined this submission with the one from October 25th, 2023 and called it, “The 65 Lousiest Gifts Ever.”  Anyway, here we go…

By Anna Hessel and the Editor (con’t)

  1. Flushable wipes. (Editor: Sometimes after a hospital stay you leave with a lot of useful items; spare urinals, chucks, gauze, waterless shampoo caps, and flushable wipes. Things that you would rather give away than never use. However, I suggest gifting them to your local animal shelter rather than your Aunt Tilly.)
  2. A 64-ounce bottle of extra strength mouthwash. (Editor: I agree, even the giant size bottle is inappropriate).
  3. A jock strap. (especially bad for your great aunt or grandmother…) (Editor: But what about Grampa?)
  4. Any attire with shoulder pads. (Editor: Good advice, Anna. I didn’t like shoulder pads then, and I’m no fonder of them now).
  5. A homemade pet rock. (Editor: N-o-o-ow, wait a minute, Anna. I belong to my local ‘rock’ club. We paint pictures on rocks and then leave them at different spots around the community for people to find and enjoy. I wouldn’t call any of them pets, but awesome anyway).
  6. A Rubik’s Cube (Editor: I never could figure that gizmo out, so definitely agree, it’s a very bad gift).
  7. A disco ball key chain. (Editor: A bit bizarre, but last year a friend gifted me with a cardinal (the bird) key chain, there’s a button on the bird’s back; push it and the bird tweets. Not suggesting it as a better option, but apparently, key chains are making a comeback as gifts).
  8. A professional house cleaning. (Editor: Anna, I want to tell you, I like a clean house, especially if someone else is swinging the mop. This could be a much appreciated gift; for some of us anyway).
  9. A box of leakproof trash bags. (Editor: Totally disgusting, I don’t think trash bags, leakproof or not, are ever on anyone’s wish list).
  10. A mop and bucket, fresh from the home maintenance aisle at Walmart. (Editor: I agree with Anna on this one. Definitely, in very poor taste).
  11. Disposable razors. (Editor: Yuck).
  12. 101 ways to cook kale cookbook. (Editor: Dearest Anna, Kale offers an abundance of nutrients, including potassium, fiber, folate, and calcium. Kale can reduce the risk of heart disease by helping lower LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol”. Not all gifts need to be warm and fuzzy some can be useful).
  13. Fun with artificial colors cookbook. (Editor: I have nothing to say.)
  14. Anything you created at your first pottery lesson. (Editor: Excellent advice, Anna).
  15. A ‘Bedazzler’ or anything you bedazzled yourself. (Editor: I didn’t think you could still buy such a thing, but I was wrong; available on Amazon. So, take Anna’s advice and keep your bedazzling to yourself).
  16. Anything polyester. (Editor: Polyester freed women from the slavery of the ironing board, but now 50 years later women have tossed out both the iron, the ironing board, and the polyester),
  17. Refrigerator magnets in the shape of vegetables or fruit.
  18. Any experimental art.
  19. Kitty litter (especially if the recipient does not have a cat). (Editor: Uhhh. I definitely support Anna on this one. Instead, take your unused kitty litter or animal food to your local animal shelter and gift it to them this holiday season. Please support your local no kill Animal Shelter).
  20. Expired food. (Editor: Not only offensive, but likely dangerous).
  21. Insect spray (Editor: FYI, former heavyweight champion, Mohammad Ali, was believed to have caused himself severe neurological damage by constantly spraying insect killer around himself).
  22. Bat or rat plush toy or pillow.
  23. Cellulite cream. (Editor: This could be touchy; I personally, wouldn’t risk giving cellulite cream to anyone, ever).

You’ve been waiting for it- here’s the top seven political gifts, NOT to give.

  1. The Donald inaugural commemorative whiskey flask.
  2. The complete ten season box set of “The Apprentice,” (Editor: I saw one episode of that show and that was all I could stand. They actually made 10 seasons of that crap? Amazing.)
  3. Pat Robertson bubble head. (Editor: I think Pat is best left forgotten).
  4. Ron DeSantis bubble head. (Editor: A blip, a blimp, a cowboy boot wearin’ Trump wannabe).
  5. Donald Trump bubble head (oh wait, aren’t they called bobble heads?)
  6. Smelling salts (unless of course one of these bubble heads are on the air…)
  7. A Halloween costume, especially if there is a Trump mask involved.

Please remember that one of the worst possible gifts is the Donald Trump gift set: the set consists of a Trump Chia head And a Trump bubble head, because two of his heads are never better than one.

Friends, Let’s fill our hearts with love and pray for peace in Palestine.

35 of the Worst Gifts to Give

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35 of the Worst Gifts to Give Gift giving can be hard, Anna Hessel says think before you buy that Weight Watchers membership for your friend, get an Amazon gift card instead.

35 of the Worst Gifts to Give

Editor’s Note: When Anna Hessel submitted the attached post, I hemmed and hawed a bit, complaining it was “too early” to start thinking of Thanksgiving, much less Christmas. I was reminded however, that in the good ol’ USA, Christmas never ends. As proof of that sentiment, when I went to my local Walmart the other day to pick up a Halloween pumpkin for carving, and a scary doorbell howler to terrorize the Trick or Treaters, I was confronted with reality; not only does Christmas never end in  America, but neither does any other holiday. Wally World had it all; from the giant red heart pillow, left over from Valentine’s Day, to the new pink Barbie Christmas ornaments. There seems to be no apology for the outright commercialization of every holiday in our capitalist society. That is not necessarily a bad thing, just a reflection of America’s unique take on holidays. We like ’em-and the date on the calendar seems to have nothing to do with the enjoyment of the season. Whatever that season may be. So, here is Anna’s suggestions for what NOT to gift this Christmas, or any other day, accompanied by a few of my comments.

 

By Anna Hessel and the Editor

35. The infamous lump of coal. (Editor: I don’t even know where you would find a lump of coal these days. Maybe Joe Manchin could find one for us).

34. A 2023 calendar. (Editor: Totally agree. Who wants to be reminded of the past when the future is racing towards us?)

33. Air freshener, disinfectant, oven or drain cleaner.

32. Weight Watchers gift card. (Editor: Unless of course, it was requested).

31. Deep wrinkle reducing cream with a spackle knife. (Editor: This one could end long established friendships).

30. Au Natural ‘Lumberjack’ cologne just for her.

29. A Limburger cheese scented candle. (Editor:  A cheese connoisseur may feel differently).

28. Deodorant (these really stink as gifts…)

27. A set of encyclopedias. (Editor: This means they were printed before the internet. Just take a minute to digest that…it would be like reading the Archives of Alexandria).

26. Antifungal anything. (Editor: This is definitely too personal).

25. A crochet pot holder crafted at your first crochet class. (Editor: Mine is framed, proudly taking up wall space in my kitchen).

24. A place setting of “china” from the Dollar General.

23. A VHS tape collection  of  embarrassing family moments.

22. An eight track tape of Herschel and the Hillbillies.

21. Socks of any color. (Editor: On this I must protest, I’ve gotten some darn cool socks at Christmas, that I still wear. I’ve got the cute fire fighters pair and the classic cars socks, and of course, the Santa socks, and many more).

20. Purple socks and a crushed velvet Donny Osmond cap. (Editor: I don’t know about this one. I’m kind of into the feel of crushed velvet-and Donny is okay in my book, and I’ve already told you how I feel about socks as gifts-and purple is one of my favorite colors).

19. A GMO foods gift basket.

18. A tie (apologies to my husband because I already bought him one…). (Editor: here again I protest, I’ve already stashed away several awesome ones for my honey).

17. A can of Simoniz. (Editor: I totally agree on this one-unless of course, it’s accompanied with a gift certificate to my favorite auto detailer).

16. A pickleball Ken doll.

15. A pickleball lesson gift certificate. (Editor: Anna, again, I must protest. Pickleball is the “new, great thing” in my little community and I wouldn’t mind learning how to play this outrageously fun looking sport- you can give me one of those gift certificates any day).

14. Artificial flavor favorites cookbook. (Editor: I agree, an abomination).

13. Nose hair trimmer, toenail clipper, ingrown toenail file, pimple popper, earwax remover, or any other gross grooming implement. (Editor: Ohhhh dear, I gave my Dad one of those really lovely grooming kits, in a fancy leather carrying case, just a couple years ago. He said, he liked it).

12. Anything pumpkin spice (don’t be tempted by the fact that the PS stuff is now in the clearance bin…).

11. Membership to the kale of the month club.

10. Dental floss, not even the peppermint flavored variety.

9. Last year’s re-gifted fruit cake. (Editor: I definitely agree you shouldn’t wait so long to re-gift the cake. Now, I’ve heard they have a long shelf life, but I’d recommend if you really want to re-gift the fruit cake you should do it no later than Valentine’s Day).

8. A bathroom wastebasket. (Editor: I agree this is definitely a personal choice item).

7. A toilet cleaning brush with matching plunger. (Editor: Definitely hovering on disgusting).

6. Name a cockroach after your loved one certificate (suitable for framing). (Editor: However, a framed certificate of a new star named after a loved one, might be fun.)

At some point you knew this was going to turn political. Just so you aren’t disappointed, here’s a few jabs at the former guy and his crew.

5. My Pillow. (Editor: I hear Mike Lindell needs the money; that’s a good reason not to buy one).

4. An autographed mug shot of the Donald. (Editor: I cringe at the thought).

3. Trumpy Bear. (Editor: Yes, it is a real thing and I’d stay away from it, far away from it, especially if you’re an attorney).

2. A slightly used red MAGA hat.

1. A Donald Trump head-Chia Pet style-with orange foliage growing out of its several orifices. (Editor: I understand there is  limited number of the heads, due to low interest in that guy).

 

I Wanna Be Barbie, That Girl Has It All

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I Wanna Be Barbie

Barbie hit 60 this year but she looks good and is just hitting her stride. I Wanna Be Barbie, That Girl Has It All…

 

By Anna Hessel

 

“Barbie” Boom

Pink is in and so is Barbie. I just saw the new Barbie movie for the first time, and it’s totally awesome. How can you miss with a cast that includes America Ferrera, Rhea Pearlman, Will Farrell, Ryan Gosling, Margot Robbie, and narration by Helen Mirren? I must commend Mattel for having the courage to make this movie happen. Culturally diverse Barbies and Kens abound in Barbieland, including wheelchair and plus size perfect Barbies – I want both of those dolls. I agree the park bench scene with pink Western attired Barbie and the older lady is a scene worthy of an Oscar. This Christmas my nieces and nephews are getting Mattel toys: Barbies, Hot Wheels or Matchbox cars. Toys for Tots will be blessed with Barbies, too.

Back in the Day…

I happen to pride myself on knowing my Babs history. I know her middle name is Millicent and I have owned many a Millie. I actually gave my dolls choppy haircuts, marker make up, and even tattoos. Weird Barbie, I understand will be the doll to have this holiday season. Eons ago, I came up with the idea of cellulite Barbie, and, of course, have written about it – you heard it here first, folks.

No Boxing

I played enthusiastically with my collection – no doll of mine stayed in a box. Barbie in her black and pink case accompanied me to my first sleepover and my first day of school. She took mud baths in puddles after the rain, and Malibu Barbie and Ken went to the beach with me. I had the Barbie airplane – she was the pilot, Midge the copilot, and Ken was the flight attendant on my airline.

Be All That She Can Be

Ever the feminist, I campaigned for a Shirley Chisholm and “That Girl” dolls. I already had a nurse “Julia” doll. My fashionista Barbie was a lawyer, astronaut, ballerina, and veterinarian, complete with plastic cat and dog. She was a marine biologist, swimming with plastic dolphins. I had equestrian Barbie, who also ran a day care center. Cute baby Barbies came with my baby sitter set. I had the growing up Skipper; crank her arm and she grew boobs. Lucy in the candy factory Barbie. Hair color change Barbie. Ice Capades Barbie. Farm girl Barbie. Teacher Barbie. That’s just to name a few. Ms. Barbara Millicent Roberts was a professor, first female President of the United States, a senator, and judge. Ken was nurse to her doctor. All of my fashion diva dolls held important positions: opera star, actress, independent film maker, news anchor, author, nuclear physicist, private detective, rocket scientist, and, of course, journalist.

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Even Clean People Get Bugs

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Even Clean People Can Get Bugs

Numerous health issues are thought to be related to cleanliness when it has nothing to do with hygiene. Examples such as scabies, bedbugs, fleas, ringworm and head lice.

Scabies, Bedbugs, Fleas, Head Lice, Ringworm Have Nothing To Do With Cleanliness

Lax Hygiene Is Not The Cause Of An Infestation

By D.S. Mitchell

Fleas

I’ve always had a dog and sometimes a kitty. If you have pets you have likely dealt with fleas at some point or another, despite flea collars and systemic barriers. Flea eggs fall off our pets and onto our carpet. After a gestation period, larvae hatch from the eggs and develop into pupae, which emerge as adult fleas when stimulated by the scent of a warm blooded animal in close proximity-such as yourself, or your pet. Motivated by the scent of human blood the hungry fleas attack,  leaving small, itchy red bumps.

Cleanliness has nothing to do with the infestation you are experiencing. Fleas are attracted to warm bodies. These little critters over time have developed genetic adaptations to many of the insecticides we use to kill them.  Although flea bites, in themselves, are not harmful, people scratching the bites with dirty hands or fingernails can cause an infection.  OTC anti-itch cream can usually relieve the itch. Vets recommend spot on flea and tick treatments which usually prevent re-infestation. Vacuuming can help, but it is unrealistic to expect to snare every flea pupa with the vacuum.

Head Lice

When I was a young mother I was on constant alert for head lice which cause regular outbreaks in school. When your little tykes come home and hugs you and other family members you have an infected household.  Head lice are parasitic insects known for clinging to hair and feeding on human blood.  When infected, you will have an itchy scalp and neck. Examine your hair, close to the scalp, and if you are infected, you will see tiny tan or grayish bugs or tiny eggs sticking to the hair shaft, close to the scalp and the blood supply. Although itchy and uncomfortable, head lice are not known to be dangerous. Drugstores nationwide carry treatment kits. Some communities even have lice removal centers to take care of the problem.

Ringworm

First of all, ringworm is not a bug or insect, but instead a fungus. The fungus eats keratin, the dead outer layer of skin. Ringworm is highly infectious. It has nothing to do with cleanliness and can be contracted if you come into contact with infected people or pets. In locker rooms contamination often comes via washcloths or clothing. If you notice a red, scaly rash in the shape of rings that grows over time you probably have ringworm. An infected pet may display a circular rash or hair loss. If the infection is on smooth hairless skin an OTC anti-fungal cream should be all you need. However, if the outbreak is on a hairy area of skin, you should visit your doctor and get an oral medication, because the fungus can travel down hair follicles making the topical cream ineffective.

Bedbugs

Bedbugs infest beds and upholstered furniture and feed on humans as they sleep or rest. Suspect you have an infestation if you have a cluster or “line” of itchy red bumps like mosquito bites on most any part of the body. Suspect bedbugs if any family member has spent a night outside your home.  Bedbugs have been around since the beginning and they are oblivious to clean sheets and hygienic efforts. Bedbugs are hitchhikers and often ride on luggage and backpacks. The bites are irritating but usually an OTC antihistamine will relieve the discomfort. There are several products on the market for use by the homeowner to eradicate the infestation. If you don’t notice a quick drop in the bites you may need to call an exterminator.

Scabies

Scabies are tiny mites that burrow their way under the top layers of skin, laying eggs and excreting feces, sparking an inflammatory reaction in the skin. The “trails” they leave under your skin will be intensely irritated, red, and itchy. The itching may be especially irritating at night. Be particularly suspicious of an infestation if you have been on vacation or have recently come in contact with a new group of people. Scabies are passed through skin-to-skin contact and is in no way a sign of poor hygiene. You’ll probably be seeing your PCP and getting a prescription for a  topical cream. Everyone in the family should be treated. The cream needs to be applied two times, a week apart to be sure it kills mites when they hatch.

GOP Eagerly Embraces Trump

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EDITORIAL:

The GOP Embraces Trump

Trump is a criminal. He is dangerous man. Stop him.

EDITORIAL:

Corruption, Bigotry, and Intolerance 

The last thing America needs is another four years of Trump in the White House tweeting crazy ass nonsense 24 hours a day, indicting his enemies, attacking the media, and defaming private citizens from a seat in the Oval Office. Come on America, we are definitely better than this guy.

By D. S. Mitchell

 

The Last Thing America Needs

Donald J. Trump, the last thing America needs in public office, has seen his poll numbers skyrocket among Republicans, as his criminal indictments mount. Trump, the forever grifter, is making millions selling his mugshot on T-shirts. The Grand Old Party of Lincoln has collapsed. What we now have in its place is total acceptance of the unacceptable.  Gun packing white supremacists, torch carrying Neo-Nazi’s, vitriolic officials denying the obvious truth, Joe Biden won the election. When Republican politicians like Liz Cheney, and Mitt Romney can’t talk sense to these crazies, and instead leave the party to become unaffiliated voices; it just proves that today’s Republican Party is not the party of your father-or your grandfather; and certainly not Lincoln.

Against The Trump Plan 

When all the votes for the 2020 presidential election were counted, Joe Biden’s ballot tally totaled 81,283,098 votes, or 51.3% of the vote. Donald Trump only garnered 74,222,958 or 46.8% of the vote. Miscellaneous other candidates captured a meager 1.8% of the vote. In other words, Joe Biden, kicked Trump’s butt, besting the Mango Mussolini by over 7 million plus votes. Go Brandon!

In MAGA World, The Biggest Flag Wins

But, those numbers were obviously out of sync with Trump’s election plan. Trump demanded recount after recount, all the while inflaming his supporters, convincing them, falsely, that he was the victim of voter fraud, mostly in the black and brown big cities of the country.  Votes were counted and recounted and lawsuit after lawsuit brought by Trump challenging the election were dismissed. Everyone from the bloated and lawless Bill Barr to Cybersecurity Director Chris Krebs called Trump’s claims of voter fraud, “bullshit.” But, three years later, I still see signs proclaiming, “Trump Won!” usually accompanied by an oversized American flag.

On A Personal Note

I admit it, I’m angry. The MAGA election deniers have highjacked the American flag, as if it is their private property. Pre-MAGA I would fly the flag in front of my house every President’s Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day (my son’s birthday), the 4th of July, and Labor Day, I no longer display the flag on the above noted holidays, but instead I now keep my treasured flag in a drawer. The last thing I want is for anyone, at anytime, to assume I’m a Trumpie. I am furious that these MAGA lug nuts have so brazenly, as if they are the patriots, stolen the stars and stripes as decor for their civil disobedience. I am convinced these fake patriots are an existential threat to our democracy. It isn’t a far stretch to imagine Trump using armed militias to implement Bashar al-Assad tactics to hold on to power if he is ever returned to the White House.

As It Plays Out

Because of Trump’s lies, our country has grown even more painfully divided. Instead of the bloated orange fruit fly conceding the election, to Joe Biden, like every other loser before him has, Trump chose to create chaos, dissent, and mob violence. Authoritarians do that sort of thing, call the validity of elections into question. If Trump becomes the Republican nominee in 2024 I am sure we will see more armed election observers,  more lawsuits, more threats of violence, more white supremacist saber rattling, and more talk of Trump as a lifetime president.

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As Summer Winds Down, Beat The Heat

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As Summer Winds Down, Beat The Heat

Anna Hessel offers some great suggestions on beating the summer heat.

Ideas To Beat The Summer Heat

By Anna Hessel

Earlier this month, we talked about how to look good during the dog days of August. Looking good is one thing, but actually beating the heat is another story altogether. It’s easy to overheat, but below are some practical tips to stay cool, comfortable, and safe during this summer heatwave:

  1. Go to a pool, water park, or splash pad. Some can be pricey but some offer resident, student, and/or senior discounts. Others offer special prices on sites like Groupon. Splash pads are often free or nominal fees for adults. Many condo or apartment complexes have pools onsite. If you’re not blessed enough to have a pool of your own, make friends with a neighbor that does. Even indoor pools can cool in the hot temperatures.
  2. If public pools or beaches are not your thing, get in touch with your inner kid and bring out a lawn sprinkler or rig up the garden hose – just don’t drink from it…
  3. Stay hydrated – keep up liquid consumption. Water and clear juices are best – watch out for caffeinated drinks and alcohol, both of which can dry your system out.
  4. Air conditioning and fans are our friends in the summer months but watch your utility bills. Try budget plans that allow you to pay a fixed rate all year long. Keeping drapes or blinds closed can significantly cut the cooling energy load. A paper fan can work in a pinch…
  5. Outside, have it made in the shade – a shady spot can be 10-20 degrees cooler (or even more) than in the sun.
  6. Looser clothing and sunscreen are musts. Breathable fabrics, sandals, shorts, halters, tasteful tube tops, rompers, and halters are cooling attire. If you are visiting a family water park or pool, do not wear a thong bikini, please – show some respect and decorum.
  7. Keeping colognes, toners, sunburn creams, and the like in the fridge can do wonders to cool you down.
  8. A cold shower is not just a curb for your sex drive; try a temp at lukewarm or tepid – colder may overdo it.
  9. Rinse your wrists and cool your neck area – you will notice an immediate difference.
  10. Avoid being outdoors during the hottest times of the day, typically between 11 am and 2 pm, when the sun is strongest.
  11. Enjoy some frozen treats or slushes.
  12. Ice, in drinks or on your forehead, will cool you down quickly.
  13. Use all cotton bedding or linens made with breathable fabrics, and leave off the blankets or comforters.
  14. Salads and cold sandwiches are perfect dinner and lunch options. Eat a cucumber to stay as cool as one, and fresh summer fruits are a great dessert.
  15. Deodorant-antiperspirant: self-explanatory…
  16. Use the power of suggestion: watch a winter movie or TV show – Christmas in August, anyone?
  17. Remember our furry friends need to stay cool, too. If we are hot, imagine how they feel with built-in fur coats. If you see your pet panting, cool them off. Bathing pets, or getting them a kiddie pool can help. Keep a bowl of water with ice cubes nearby for them. Carry a collapsible furbabies bowl if you are taking them outdoors. Do not leave them in hot cars. Keep walks shorter and shave their fur if need be.
  18. Use air conditioning or open car windows while in transit – above 30-35 mph on average, the less drag with closed windows offsets the additional air conditioning add to fuel consumption. Let car air out a bit before sitting on the hot seats. Cars can often feel like you’re entering an oven, or even a steam bath, when parked outside.
  19. Take a cool and comforting bubble bath.
  20. Avoid strenuous exercise like biking, hiking, walking, jogging, or running in hot temperatures. Opt for indoor air-conditioned exercise, instead. Swimming of course is ideal.

Remember in just a few months, when you are dressing in layers, shoveling snow, and snuggling under the covers to get warm, you will long for the Dog Days of summer.

 

Tips On Staying In Style In This Economy

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Tips On Staying In Style In This Economy

Anna Hessel offers common sense ideas to save money in these inflationary times

Editor’s Note: Anna Hessel with a little help from hubby, Wes, have been offering up 10 tips a week on How to Stay In Style In This Economy. Thanks Anna, we need all the help we can get. Next week will be the last week of her suggestions. Watch for it next Tuesday, but right now here are their suggestions for this week.

By Anna Hessel with Wes Hessel

Inflation is being beaten back but basic costs are still high, and service providers are charging more, but there is hope out there. Saving money has always been a challenge but in this current economic climate saving money can be get a bit tricky,  but there are certainly ways to shave your budget without losing out on things you need and want, here are today’s suggestions:

  1. Online survey sites can bring in some money. Even the legit sites sometimes have bad surveys that don’t pay, but overall, there is money to be made. You won’t get rich but a few extra dollars can add up over time.
  2. Side gigs can be fruitful but make sure to factor in things like gas and supplies to ascertain that you’re actually making a profit.
  3. Use your interests and hobbies to make money. If you bake great cookies or are a crafter, rent a table at a flea market or craft show to sell your wares, or sell to friends and co-workers. Check local ordinances before hand for any requirements.
  4. Old-fashioned side jobs like babysitting, grass mowing, car washing, errand running, etc., are not just for teens, these days.
  5. Check state treasury departments or the equivalent to find out if anyone owes you money in unclaimed property like lost accounts or credits. We found insurance and utility companies that owed us refunds…
  6. Event venues, places with concessions like pools or sports parks, and restaurants sometimes offer discount food near closing time.
  7. Summer time can bring free movies in the park, free outdoor concerts, or free splash pads for hot days…
  8. Try homemade options such as making a scrub from sugar or salt and olive oil or honey – it’s great for dry skin, cellulite, or crepe skin. Apple cider vinegar, baking soda, or baby lotion added to bath water can have spa-like benefits.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

  1. Many people are eligible for government-subsidized (most often free) cell phones with service and/or internet – more than you would think. See the FCC site (https://www.fcc.gov/general/lifeline-program-low-income-consumers) or other government websites for details.
  2. Apply for energy assistance if you’re at all eligible, and ask your utility companies if they have additional programs to help with your household fuel costs, such as budgeting options or discounts for using energy-efficient appliances.

Work in Progress-Setting Up the New Studio

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Setting Up the New Studio 

Work in Progress

Setting up the new Calamity studio

The guys have been busy sweeping, mopping, and cleaning out the area for the new Calamity News Studio. They have been working almost tirelessly getting the big unveil ready for the viewing public. There’s a lot more hard work in front of them, but there is light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Stop by for a visit and see the progress.

Tips to Stay in Style in this Economy

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Staying In Style In This Economy

Anna Hessel offers common sense ideas to save money in these inflationary times

Editor’s Note: Anna Hessel with a little help from hubby, Wes, will be offering up for the next seven weeks, 10 tips a week on How to Stay In Style In This Economy. Watch for it every Tuesday.

How to Stay in Style in this Economy…

By Anna Hessel with Wes Hessel

Inflation is being beaten back but basic costs are still high, and service providers are charging more, but there is hope out there. Saving money has always been a challenge but in this current economic climate saving money can be get a bit tricky,  but there are certainly ways to shave your budget without losing out on things you need and want, here are today’s suggestions:

 

Save Me…

Saving money in this current economic climate can be a bit of a challenge, but there are certainly ways to shave your budget without losing out on things you need and want:

  1. Take advantage of after holiday or seasonal clearances. I buy toys, non-perishable gifts, clothing, and decor items for the following year at significant discount.
  2. Extended warranties on electronics and other major purchases can be worth the nominal costs. Check the ratings on the warranty provider to see how good (or bad) their track record is, and read their terms and conditions carefully. While it isn’t always the case, good companies are out there. We recently noticed two small white dots on the screen of our TV, which showed up no matter what program source – the extended warranty refunded our entire purchase price on the television. Suddenly, those two dots are a lot less bothersome…
  3. Check out the numerous travel discount sites, but choose a well-known or at least well-rated one to protect yourself. My husband and I saved big money on a whirlpool suite for our anniversary.
  4. Discount movie theaters with second run films are a source of entertainment at a fraction of the cost of first run films. Of course, streaming services are a great value, many offer a free trial week or longer, or discounts upon sign-up for a specific period of time. Streaming that is commercial-supported can offer even more savings.
  5. Take advantage of gift with purchase offers or discounted collections in department stores for cosmetics, and politely ask for samples.
  6. Beauty schools for haircuts, manicures, pedicures and the like are often cost effective, and the work is overseen by the instructors.
  7. Clearance cosmetics are fine as long as you check expiration dates and don’t buy open items.
  8. Your own at-home hair color, mani-pedis, and facials can work just fine. Choose quality products and that does not always mean most expensive ones – do your homework to compare…
  9. Watch carefully if buying cosmetics and toiletries in dollar stores or other deep discount outlets – many are made in China (PRC) and are not regulated. (Even major big box stores may carry these products, and some are better known brands.) Don’t sacrifice safety for savings. Food items made in China also are not regulated, and safety is in question.
  10. Clearance racks are great places to find deep discount apparel (or other items, as well). You might need to trim a thread or sew a button but it’s worth it. Remember there is a big difference between fashionably distressed and a mess…

Reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle to maximize savings and stay in style…