$5.00 Savings Plan

Five Dollar Plan seen here

 My sister and her husband introduced this plan a few years ago and the times that I have done it, I have been surprised and excited by how much money I was able to save. Basically, anytime a $5.00 comes into your possession, instead of spending it, you save it somewhere safe. A five, though significant, once gone from your wallet isn't as heartbreaking as a twenty gone. This has really helped me cut down on needless purchases like lip balm, gummy bears or anything else that I tend to break a five on. Have you ever done this? I also sometimes think that it helps to have a goal for all of those five dollar bills. Like next time you go on vacation, you only use those fives. Trust me, it feels like found money!

Money talks

Frenchie Piggy Bank from Z Gallerie

When PB and I first moved in together, one of the things that I had not completely anticipated were bills. It wasn't that neither of us wanted to deal with them, but it also wasn't going to be something that worked itself out. So we devised a plan. Rent is split down the middle. PB pays for the cable and internet. I pay for gas and electric. Each week we alternate who pays for groceries and though we try to be careful about dining out, we also go back and forth on who pays. Now that we are trying to tighten our belts and save a little more, I would love to hear what you guys do.

For us, we have both stopped buying clothes for the time being (though I am going to breakdown and buy gloves-- its for my own safety!). Last night I soaked my fingers and gave myself a home manicure. Packing lunches from leftovers the night before is a must for us. And We each put money into our 401K and set aside additional money into savings accounts.

I know that money can be a touchy subject but I would love to hear what works..and doesn't work for you guys.

a better bagged lunch

No offense to Joey Tribbiani but after brown bagging a sandwich for lunch off and on for the past 30 years, things were getting a little dull. So when I don't have leftovers to pack, I found that I was packing a pretty boring sandwich. And then as Oprah would say, in the aisles of Key Foods, where every woman dreams, I had my a-ha moment. Go for the roll. By that I mean, go for the hard, yummy substantial roll instead of the sliced bread. A roll is not only filling but more appetizing and is still going to be less expensive than ANYTHING you find at your usual lunch places.
Once I had the roll down, I thought about what else I could do to elevate my lunch. Here is what I came up with.

• Ok so this isn't going to be low carb, but who cares, go for the roll, you will be glad you did. 
• Spice up your meat selections-- literally-- turkey pastrami is a little spicy. Or go with a honey roast, smoked, whatever. Just look around and see what your options are. Change is out there. 
• Cheese Please. Love to snack on brie...who said you can't put it on a sandwich. Muster, cheddar, provolone, aged gouda (yes please) are all awesome pics. Go crazy, its just a few slices. 
• Here is where the fun starts. I like mayo and mustard as much as the next but I also love balsamic glaze, pesto, even salsa. Try a different condiment and you will not be disappointed.
• Finally, veggies. What about a pickled hot pepper, or a fire toasted tomato. Give me the works!

I hope these tips are slightly helpful. Even one of them would totally jazz up a snoozer of a lunch I think. What about you? What are you eating for lunch?

(For info on the image click here)