Frugal

5 Artistic, Inexpensive Father’s Day Presents to Create

June 3, 2020 By Kathryn Vercillo Leave a Comment

Father’s Day is coming up in a few weeks. Like almost everyone else, I’m cautious with my spending right now. However, I don’t want to let the day pass unnoticed. It’s important to me to feel connected with my loved ones right now. Gifts are one of many ways to do that. Therefore, I’m thinking about inexpensive Father’s Day presents that I can put together myself.

1. Heartfelt Handwritten Letter

I realize that things like this can come off as cheesy suggestions. However, every single time that I’ve written a heartfelt letter to someone, they’ve treasured it. Every time that I’ve received a letter – or even a meaningful brief card – I’ve treasured it.

Therefore, cheesy or not, this is one of my go-to gifts when I don’t want to spend money. It costs the price of postage and the time to write it. Investing that time is what makes it so personal and touching. Honestly, this is probably my top choice among the inexpensive Father’s Day presents I’m considering this year.

2. Single Framed Photo

I love to give photo gifts to people. I think that they capture so much. Often, I make elaborate scrapbooks. For example, after a family trip, I’ll typically make scrapbooks for everyone. They include photos as well as quotes we said, tickets to things we went to, and so forth.

However, you don’t have to create such an elaborate scrapbook to have a good photo gift. Sometimes I’ll simply choose a really great photo, one that evokes a specific shared memory, and print that out as a gift. I’ll frame it or I’ll have it printed on canvas to make it a little bit more special than a simple print. By using an affordable frame and/or promo code discounts on photo gift printing, I’m able to spend very little while creating something meaningful.

If I decide to choose this from among the inexpensive Father’s Day presents that I’m considering, then I’ll probably use a photo from my dad’s visit here a couple of years ago.

3. A Song or Poem

My dad and I both enjoy writing. We have extremely different writing styles but we respect each other’s work. It might be fun to try to write a song or poem in his style for a change. Or to write a poetic response to something he’s written in the past.

4. Shared Journal with First Entry Complete

Years ago my siblings and I had a shared journal. I would write an entry, then mail the journal to one of them. They would write an entry and pass it along to the other. It might be fun to start something like this with my dad. It’s something that we could keep doing all year long. I have a bunch of blanket journals here already, so I wouldn’t have to spend anything on that. I could create the first entry and pop that in the mail before Father’s Day.

5. FaceTime Phone Call

This feels a little bit like a copout. It’s “just a phone call” after all. However, all too often, I don’t give quality time and attention to family phone calls. I try. But I get distracted during the call. Or I feel emotional or reactive or something less than idea. A really good phone call where I’m totally focused on making the other person’s day can be a really powerful thing. I have a feeling my dad would be quite content with this choice if it’s the route that I decide to go. After all, presence is the most powerful present of all.

What are you doing for Father’s Day this year?

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Is Costco Gas Quality the Same as Exxon, Shell and Chevron?

May 25, 2020 By Trey LaRocca 105 Comments

Everyone loves Costco, right? They treat their employees much better than other businesses, and they have competitive prices on a wide variety of items. In fact, Costco is known for some of the lowest prices on gas. But what do these low prices mean when it comes to Costco gas quality?

Cheap Gas But What About Costco Gas Quality?

Costco gas prices positively cannot be beaten. Typically, this means that a company saves money by making a cheaper product. This can call into question the quality of Costco’s black gold.

When Costco is selling its gasoline for so much less than the competition, it’s natural to be skeptical and wonder if the quality is equal to brand-name gasoline such as Exxon, Shell, and Chevron. Most people want to know if Costco gas is good quality fuel, or if it might cause long-term damage to their fuel system.

Gas Quality Standards

First, it’s important to note that the government sets fairly stringent standards for all gasoline sold in the United States. When it comes to octane level and other specific gasoline characteristics, all gas is basically the same. The difference between the fuel that you buy at branded gas stations comes down to the detergents that are added to the gas.

Even with detergents, the government sets standards. The federal government has required since 1995 that all gasoline sold in the U.S. must contain a certain amount of detergent additives. These additives are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved, and the amount of detergent which must be added to keep vehicle engines free from deposits is regulated. Costco gasoline meets all these requirements, despite being so much cheaper than surrounding stations. Just because you are saving money, that does not mean that they have skimped out, or skirted any regulations.

Is Costco Gas As Good As the Competitors?

So, Costco meets the minimum requirements, but is it still as good as other brand-name gasoline? A number of automakers made the decision that the U.S. government additive requirement wasn’t high enough for many cars. As a result, they developed a “Top Tier” standard. In order to meet the “Top Tier” designation, the fuel sold at the gas station must meet additive requirements higher than required by the U.S. government. Costco fuel meets this top-tier standard, so that just goes to show the value that you are getting.

While Costco’s gas isn’t the same as the other brands, that does not make it a lesser product. After all, if it was the same exact gas, Costco wouldn’t be able to set itself apart. Costco gasoline is practically equal to any other major brand gasoline. You should not notice any difference when filling up your vehicle at Costco as you would with any other brand. The only difference you should notice is a much lighter hit to the wallet.

Get Better Gas Quality and Save Money

If you aren’t sure that Costco gasoline is as good as another major brand’s, try this “gas hack” to save money. In most areas of the country, you can fill up at the Costco gas station, plus add quality fuel injector cleaner. If you add this fuel injector cleaner as recommended, you will still pay less for Costco gas and the fuel injector cleaner, than you would on gas alone at a major brand gas station. This, though, is more of a peace-of-mind improvement. Most mechanics will tell you that fuel injector cleaner really doesn’t do much, so maybe just enjoy the savings that come with your yearly membership.

In the end, there is nothing to suggest that Costco brand fuel is inferior to any other brands of gasoline. Don’t let the price alone dissuade you from filling up there, but we won’t judge if the long lines drive you away.

Do you fill up at Costco gas stations? What do you think about the gas quality?

Is the Costco Membership Fee Worth it?

Is a Costco Executive Membership Worth the Price?
Costco Gas Calculator: Will I Save Money Buying a Membership if All I Buy is Fuel?

Costco Return Policy

Costco Holiday Schedule

Costco Tires

Also, check out our articles for Target.

Target Christmas Store Hours

Target Holiday Schedule and Store Hours

(Photo courtesy of Adam Keys)

How Much Is Too Much Money In Your Savings Account?

May 14, 2020 By Trey LaRocca Leave a Comment

We have hammered into your brain at this point that you need to be saving. It is far too important to overstate that you have to have some sort of rainy day fund to ensure that you can stay afloat in hard times. For those who develop the skill and discipline it takes to save much more than they will need for an emergency, the location of that money becomes the main point of progress. Once you begin to see your savings go from 3-4 months-worth of expenses to a beginner retirement fund, that money needs to start growing outside of a traditional savings account. Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, mutual funds, and index funds are all places that will see more gains than your bank will give you, and the sooner you start one, the better. So, how much is too much money in your savings account?

Quantity

“Too much savings” is definitely not a problem. The issue comes when you have so much in your regular bank account that you are leaving gains on the table that could be found elsewhere. The point at which this becomes a noteworthy issue is different for everyone. A good rule of thumb is that if you can survive six months on your savings account balance, you have enough. Three-to-four months will serve just as well as justification for putting some cash elsewhere; six months is where I would say things are bordering on excessive. Once you can do that, it is time to start getting some tax-free gains elsewhere. This will ensure that you keep a cushy level of liquidity, but still maximize your wealth accumulation. This is vital in ensuring that you have a comfy retirement.

Quality

The question now is, “where should I put my money now?” Well, here is something you should’ve already been doing: Contributing the maximum amount to a 401(k) or Roth IRA that your employer will match. If you haven’t been doing this, you have literally been foregoing free money. Not to fret, just start doing it now. Not only does your money get matched by your employer, but it also gets withheld tax-free. This lowers your taxable income for the year (yay, lower taxes!). These are 2 separate ways you are already gaining money before the actual retirement account even starts doing its thing; that thing, by the way, is growing. With few exceptions, retirement accounts like these bring great, reliable gains to your money over time. This makes sure that your retirement is as comfortable as possible. Other options for those who want more manual control of their money (after you have maxed out employer match) are index funds, mutual funds, and individual stocks. My recommendation on those is pretty much told in the order they are presented.

Costco Mother’s Day Deals

May 7, 2020 By Trey LaRocca Leave a Comment

When it comes to getting great gifts, Costco never really disappoints. With tremendous variety and a reputation for value, you can’t go wrong. This makes it all the more exciting when they go above and beyond to offer extra sales around the holidays. These opportunities are addicting to gift-givers, and it is no wonder why. With Mother’s Day around the corner, it is time to gear up and go to your nearest warehouse (provided they are open). Before you head out, it is wise to brush up on what deals you can expect. So, without further adieu, here is the info we have on Costco Mother’s Day Deals.

What is on sale?

While most of the particulars are on Costco’s website, we can briefly explain the main categories of sales they will offer. Keep in mind, these are only available while supplies last. This means that once current inventory for sale items is depleted, there will be no restocking at current sale prices.

Beauty – Get your hands on some great grooming and cosmetic products for mom this mother’s day. these can include traditional toiletries, all the way up to more expensive skin care and makeup products. These are in high-demand, and the sales may run out quickly.
Clothing – Pretty self explanatory. If you want to grab some extra closet assets for your mother, Costco has got the goods. Demand is still high here, but there is so much inventory that you can afford to take your time.
Home Goods – You’ve got your blenders, your mixers, your fryers; if your mom is a whiz in the kitchen, check out the home goods sales. These are some of the most aggressively marked-down products, and will make a terrific gift. This one has a pretty massive variety, ranging from throw pillows to the aforementioned kitchen appliances. Anything that makes your home more livable is marked down under this category.
Sweet Treats – Candy. Everybody loves candy.
Jewelry – If you’re looking to step up your gift game, these ones are for you. With a pretty wide array of price points, Costco’s jewelry deals are a great way to get something truly special for mom this year.
Handbags – Not sure why these are in their own category, but they are on sale nonetheless. Pretty similar to the jewelry category, getting some eye-catching accessories is never a bad plan for a holiday.
Floral – If you’re a serious gift-giver, you know that no gift is complete without some flowers. Now, Costco’s flower stock is small, so sales will be over pretty much as soon as they begin. If your local spot has some, though, grab a cheap arrangement to give with your gift, and your mother will not be disappointed.
Backyard and Garden – If your mom prefers to plant her own flowers, more power to her. From seeds to decorations, everything you need for your garden is on sale at Costco Warehouses around the country.
Electronics – No better way to blow someone’s mind than some new tech. Plus, if your mom is a little older, odds are she needs an upgrade. Make her day, maybe even her year, by getting her some new toys that will probably make her life a whole lot easier.

For more info, or to find exact prices, check out Costco’s website here.

Happy Mother’s Day!

How to Price Match at Best Buy During the Holidays

April 21, 2020 By Trey LaRocca Leave a Comment

When it comes time to buy a gift, spend some extra cash, or use a gift card, getting the best deal is imperative. Nobody wants to overspend, and making sure you get the best value is almost part of the holiday fun. Deal hunters everywhere are always looking for ways to save money on the newest tech or land an awesome price on something they need. Lucky for them, Best Buy has made it easier than ever to “shop around” by price matching local retailers, including their online prices. To figure out how this works, here are some of the guidelines on how to price match at Best Buy during the holidays.

What is eligible?

As a rule of thumb, services or subscriptions (like cell contracts) are not eligible for price matching. That being said, most physical and digital products are matchable. There are certain exclusions, but those leave a pretty wide swath of eligible items. In fact, Best Buy will even price match Amazon products that are sold by an actual retailer. Although, some exceptions exist when it comes to matching Amazon prices on store brands like Insignia. They will price match almost any large retailer, as well as smaller local retailers as long as the product is readily available. If the seller you show them is out of stock, it is not eligible for price matching. Despite the few restrictions, Best Buy has a very generous policy on making sure they will not be beat on price. They will even match warehouse club pricing at places like Costco and Sam’s Club. In fact, they will honor prices that are below the cost they paid for the product!

What if they change their price?

In yet another impressive policy move by Best Buy, they will honor any price reductions that take place during your return/exchange period. This means that if your product is still eligible for return, and they do a promotion dropping it’s price by $30, you can go in and have them give you that same discount. They will credit you the difference as long as you go in and request it. Some may allow this over the phone or online, but it’s a much safer bet to go in and try face-to-face. This is a pretty unique policy, and we are thankful for it.

How do I do it?

The process is simple. When you are at the store, find the product you want and grab a Best Buy representative. Simply show them proof of the competitor’s price, and they will let you know if you can price match it. You can also bring it up at the cashier, but this will slow things down. It is more considerate to take care of it before people are stuck in line behind you. The ad or web listing has to be current and in-stock; Best Buy does reserve the right to contact the competitor to verify price and current availability. This may hinder your ability to price match insane blowout deals that sell out quickly, so be careful.

15 Free At-Home Activities Keeping Me Inspired and Productive

April 16, 2020 By Kathryn Vercillo Leave a Comment

A lot of people are getting stir crazy as the weeks of shelter-in-place regulations continue on. It hits me now and then. However, for the most part, I find myself easily occupied with free at-home activities. Over years of learning to save money, I’ve discovered that there are a lot of free things that utilize my creativity. Tapping into imagination and inspiration help keep my mental health stable despite the ebbs and flows of life.

Here are fifteen of the free at-home activities that I’ve been enjoying to stay inspired while saving money during the coronavirus outbreak:

1. Reading Books

I have always been a voracious reader. However, I’ve noticed that my reading choices have changed during this pandemic. Whereas I usually read intense memoirs and detailed non-fiction, I find myself turning to lighter memoirs and novels. I have a stack of books from the library that I got before they closed. I have a stack that my mother sent me for shelter-in-place reading. Plus there are Little Free Libraries open in my area. If I run out of those, I have a shelf of not-yet-read books in my house. I highly recommend choosing print books over ebooks if you can right now. Many of us need less screen time.

2. Listening to Music

If I had musical talent and an instrument at home then I’d probably be making my own music right now. As it is, I just get inspired by the music other people are making. I have been having a blast finding music that I loved then forgot about over time. I’ve also been enjoying finding new music and listening closely to lyrics in a new way.

Technically this isn’t one of my free at-home activities because I do pay for Spotify. However, since I could easily find the same music streaming for free, I’m going to count it. If I had to cut out Spotify from my daily expenses, I could, and I would still enjoy this creative activity.

3. Dancing in My Living Room

I don’t dance every time I listen to music but I do have my own little dance parties with the dogs from time to time. I love finding the songs that make me want to move and then getting a little impromptu exercise at home. I don’t do it for the exercise, though. I do it because it gets me happy.

4. Snuggling My Dogs

I am so grateful that I have pets during this shelter-in-place period. Yes, of course, it’s challenging in some ways. They don’t have the freedom to run off-leash at dog parks the way that they did before all of this happened. But we find walks to go on. Then at home, we get to snuggle. We practice new commands. We play indoor fetch. They really force me to be in the present moment. In the present, everything is okay, and so it’s one of the best things that they do for me.

5. Long Creative Talks With My Partner

I was single until not too long before all of this happened. I feel grateful that I met my person before we had to shelter-in-place. Sure, it would be okay with me and the dogs, but it’s nice to have that human element. What I’m loving is how inspiring it is to just sit around and talk about all types of different things. Without outside entertainment to distract us, it turns out we are pretty entertaining to one another. And while I’m talking about just talking, of course, attention to intimacy is also an added way to improve mood during this time.

6. Phone and Video Conversations, Sometimes

I am so glad that we have such a variety of options for real-time conversations with others as we shelter in place. That said, I’ve also found that phone and video conversations often wear me out. Therefore, I have to be careful with this one. I have to limit it. I am selective about who I choose to speak with and when. But when we do have those uninterrupted, focused-on-each-other talks, they are beautiful and inspiring.

7. Journaling

Writing has always been one of my favorite free at-home activities. It continues to be a place where I thrive creatively. I have been journaling and working on creative writing. I would like to add here that this doesn’t mean that I’m filled with inspired creativity at all times. Let’s face it; we are all dealing with a collective trauma that has created a low-grade depression/anxiety around us most of the time. That isn’t conducive to creative output much of the time. Nevertheless, I feel better when I write. It doesn’t have to be the next great journalistic piece of genius. It just has to feel good to get it out.

8. Bucket Lists

I find now to be the perfect time to get creative with bucket lists, vision boards, and other imaginative exercises about future goals. Maybe it’s because so often I find myself thinking, “if we didn’t have to shelter in place, then I would …” and it’s easy to fill in those blanks. I find it fun to create collages and scrapbooks with my bucket list ideas. I like to make books of travel ideas, books of ideas for art projects, and so forth. If you could do anything in the world right now, what would you do?

9. Discovering New Podcasts

There are so many great podcasts out there. I’m finding things that I wouldn’t normally listen to and checking them out. I’m staying away from news and anything dark or heavy, because I want lightness and joy to counteract the heavy times we find ourselves in. I suppose that’s the biggest thing that I’m doing right now to stay happy at home – trying new things that are outside of my regular routine and finding out which ones I like.

10. Crafting

I am a huge proponent of crafting as a means of improving wellbeing. Making something with my own two hands always makes me feel good. I crochet. I do a bit of weaving. Of course, the materials mean that these aren’t technically free at-home activities but I already had all of the materials I’m using prior to this shelter-in-place period. I’m not buying anything new. And if you look around your home you’ll probably find that there are arts and crafts supplies in your house, too. You can always do some Googling to find kids’ crafts made with materials you’re likely to have at home. Kids’ crafts are great for everyone because they are low-pressure outlets of creativity.

11. Telling Stories

I usually tell my stories by writing them down. Other people speak them into audio or video recorders. Now is a great time to do that. Imagine that you never get to leave your home again. What do you want the world to know about you? Get creative with getting your stories down.

12. Savoring Each Bite

Many people are enjoying cooking at home right now. If you use food that’s been stocked up in your pantry then you’re not spending anything extra on those meals. I don’t personally find cooking to be too inspiring but I have been taking the time to enjoy mindful eating. In fact, practicing mindful attention to the small things has helped me stay focused and uplifted through this time. Mindful eating, mindful attention to how a shower feels, and mindful sipping of my morning coffee all help bring beauty to the little details of daily life.

13. Having My Own Fashion Shows

I loved fashion shows as a kid. My friends and I would get dressed up and runway walk for each other. I’m not quite doing that right now (although, now that I think of it, that does sound fun!) However, I’m taking the opportunity to declutter my closets. I’m trying on all of my clothes and checking out how they feel. Some need altering. Some can be discarded. Mostly, I’m just getting a fresh look at what I’ve got in my closets. Plus, as someone who has worked at home for years, I find it imperative to get up and dressed each morning – not just staying in pajamas – even if I’m not going to leave the house. I feel better when I do that.

14. Going Through Old Photos

I’m not talking about doing some overhaul too organize all of those photos that you’ve collected digitally for years. If you find sorting and organizing fun, go for it. For me, it’s all about just looking through them. It’s about finding the gems that I had forgotten about and reliving those memories. Life is best when you have anticipation for an experience, savor the experience, and then relive it again through memories. Photos are a great way to trigger memories of happy times.

15. Making Lists of Other Things That Make Me Happy

This is just a short list that is a starting point for me. I keep an ongoing list of things that I can do at home, things that make me happy.

This is a challenging time. When things are hard, it’s often difficult to figure out what to do with yourself. We revert back to habits, often ones that don’t give us joy. If you have a list of things to choose from it’s a lot easier to get motivated to do the things that make you feel better. So I make lists and I consult them.

What are a few of the free at-home activities that you’ve been enjoying to get through this shelter-in-place period?