Tooth Fairy Generous Despite the Economy

Practically everyone is looking toward frugal living in order to deal with the serious issues in our current economy. One entity, however, that is not tightening her belt is the tooth fairy. Should the Tooth Fairy be more frugal or is her generosity in fact related to the recession? According to Medical News Today, the average price of a tooth left under a pillow has actually increased from 2006 to 2007 by 22 percent. The survey, the Tooth Fairy PollSM was conducted by Securian Dental plans, shows that Tooth Fairy gifts varied widely, from five cents all the way up … Continue reading

Of Mice, Teeth, and Fairies

The magical day has arrived… Happy Halloween to those who are dressing up and celebrating today! I’m taking a break from putting the finishing touches on my costume to give some thought to the Tooth Fairy. Why? Because that’s what I’m going to be for Halloween! For many people, teeth are a milestone. When are the baby teeth coming in? When are the baby teeth falling out, to be replaced by adult teeth? The change from infant to child to adolescent can be measured in our teeth. In the days when superstition was strong, teeth falling out could be bad … Continue reading

Can’t Afford Your Second (or more) Baby? Here is What Some Analysts Say

Here is just another thing that the economy affects: how many babies are born and maybe even why. Many people today are deciding to delay having another baby because of a tough economy. Some feel that they can’t afford another child. In fact, after each depression or recession in U.S. history, birth rates, that is fertility rates have gone down. Sometimes these new rates become the normal. Previous to the Great Depression, for example, the average number of children per woman was three. After the Great Depression, it dropped to two, a number that is usually more “acceptable” for families … Continue reading

Preparing for Worse Times Ahead

While we would all hope that the economy is going to get better soon, the reality is that it will probably get worse before it starts getting better. Leading analysts say that it may be 2010 before we can expect an improvement. This means that there will be further job losses, higher prices and the possibility of shortages as business fail and manufacturers have to reduce their production. To give yourself peace of mind, start doing what you can to prepare. Ideally, you should have three to six months of living expenses squared away in an emergency fund. While this … Continue reading

Frugal Month in Review: October 2008

“Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.” – George Eliot October has come and gone, but we can still enjoy fall and the celebration of Thanksgiving and all of the great joys of the season. Take a look back at all of the ways to save money that were featured last month. October 1st Frugal Halloween Costumes It is fall and Halloween is approaching fast, are you ready? What do the kids want to be? You can make some great homemade costumes … Continue reading

Frugal Living Week in Review: October 20th Through October 26th

Have you been thinking about Christmas, yet? It is crazy, but the stores all have their decorations, gift items and accessories all in place. I’ve done a bit of Christmas shopping, using some of my favorite secret spots for a bargain. Check out the article posted last week that talks all about it. October 20th Frugal Living Week in Review: October 13th Through October 19th It is not too early to start thinking about the upcoming holidays. Early planning can often save you a bundle. You can take everyday ideas, such as making freezer meals and apply them for the … Continue reading