Living the Frugal Life

I hope everyone had a fabulous Independence Day holiday. Not only did I take a few days off to relax in the mountains, I also celebrated the birth of my niece! Her name is Grace Kathryn and she was born on July 3rd at 12:35 PM. Mother and baby are both doing great.

In Gracie Kate’s honor, I have gathered a list of frugal baby must haves to get started on the right path of frugality. Her mom had several showers to take care of all the basic and necessary needs and wants, so the list is made up of cute, fun items that her favorite aunt (me) would consider giving her (and her parents):

The Flip Video Camcorder - a simple and convenient camcorder. This is a pocket-sized camcorder that holds 60 minutes of TV-quality video. The USB arm loads directly into your computer. It also includes cables that let you watch the videos instantly. Best of all the basic version is $99.

Bumbo Baby Sitter - I have seen these used all over the place - especially restaurants. They are great for babies learning to sit up. They also come with a cool little play tray for an additional $10. This may be something the parent-to-be registered for, but just in case they didn’t get it at the shower… The Bumbo Baby Sitter is around $40.

Handmade Burp Cloths - So cute and So easy! Just buy a package of burp cloths and material. Sew on the material in the center strip. You can customize their nursery colors or even sew on letters or initials.

Handmade Ruby Doll - I made one of these for my sister and it was so easy. It turned out really cute. Click here for the free pattern.

Handmade plush toys - I think this Owl will be my next handmade project. If you go to etsy.com, you can see all the popular handmade items that are for sale. So if you are not crafty, you can buy something from etsy.com.

Use your MyPoints.com points to send the new parents out to dinner and a movie while providing free childcare. It’s a FREE gift card!

Jewelry - I can’t wait to help deck out my niece with all sorts of jewelry. Here is an adorable bracelet in pearls and silver for only $10.

Pacifier Clips - you can make them so the new baby has one to match every outfit!

I hope this gives you some cute & fun ideas for any baby in your life.

This blog was featured on the Finance Fiesta.

Even though I am a former shopaholic, I still like having nice clothing and accessories. I am planning a trip to the Frugal Mall ( a.k.a. thrift store) this weekend. If you know what you are looking for, you can absolutely keep up with the current fashions at much better prices. When I look at the current fashions, I look for items that are classic and that will stay in style longer so I can wear them longer.

Here are the current summer trends that I will be looking for in the thrift stores this weekend. I have picked these trends out of all the current ones because I think these will last for more than one summer:

The Safari Look or Tribal Trend (strong graphic prints combined with warm, earthy tones and natural accents)

 Scarf Print Tops (Very classic and ladylike)

Bright colors (This can be on anything - tank tops, shorts, dresses, shirts, bags, shoes)

Lightweight Scarf (It will have to be very lightweight to be worn in the summer!)

Canvas tote bag (For the beach or everyday)

Peasant Tops (Back again - good reason not to get rid of your clothes)

All-American - anything red, white & blue

Long Print Dresses - Can be carried in the fall/winter season with a cardigan.

If you need to find a thrift store in your area, here is a great directory: http://www.thethriftshopper.com/index.htm If you don’t have any thrift stores in your area, this is yard sale season!

Happy frugal shopping!

This blog was featured on the festival of frugality.