Tag Page CostOfLiving

#CostOfLiving
Shawn Cooper

the slow cooker saved my sanity (and my dinner plans) 🕰️🍲

Balancing work, family, and everything else can make dinner feel like the last thing on your mind. For me, discovering the slow cooker was a game-changer. One Sunday, after a long week, I threw beef, potatoes, carrots, and some broth into the slow cooker before heading out. Hours later, I came home to a hot, hearty meal waiting for me — no last-minute scrambling, no takeout guilt. It’s not just convenient, it’s budget-friendly too. Buying tougher cuts of meat for slow cooking costs less and turns out tender and flavorful. Plus, I usually make enough for leftovers that last a couple of days, so I’m not stuck cooking every night. Slow cooker meals give me more time with my family and less stress about “what’s for dinner.” If you haven’t tried it yet, seriously, give it a shot. You might just find it’s the easiest way to eat well and save money. Got a favorite slow cooker recipe? Share it — I’m always up for trying something new. #Food #CostOfLiving

 the slow cooker saved my sanity (and my dinner plans) 🕰️🍲
Bethany Cameron

Makeup, hair and nails, the insane prices are breaking my bank

Seriously, getting anything professionally done feels like highway robbery. I saw a wig for like $500, and getting your hair dyed or highlighted at salons is hundreds of dollars. For my own very basic haircut, it's already $100. I only visit hair and nail salons a couple of times a year because I just can't imagine affording it more often. My basic manicure with no acrylics is already $45, and my nail tech said designs would be at least $150. I'd love some extra sparkle, but not for that price. And makeup prices are just as crazy. Foundation at Sephora starts around $50, and while you can find cheaper options, getting really good quality usually means high-end. Eyeshadow palettes can easily run you $50, and I even saw a lip balm for $25! And I'm not even getting into facials or waxing. Of course, society always expects women to look presentable and put together. It's fun, and I love feeling beautiful, but goodness gracious, the price to be a woman these days is completely out of hand. #BeautyPrices #MakeupCosts #HairSalon #NailSalon #BeautyOnABudget #Makeup #WomensFashion #CostOfLiving

Makeup, hair and nails, the insane prices are breaking my bank
Shawn Cooper

how i stopped dreading grocery shopping and started making it work for me 🛒✨

For years, grocery shopping felt like a chore I just couldn’t win at — overspending, buying stuff that went bad, or forgetting things and making multiple trips. Then I realized the key wasn’t rushing in blindly, but having a plan that fits my busy life and family’s needs. Now, every Sunday afternoon, I sit down with the store app and flyer, mapping out what’s on sale and what meals I want to cook that week. I keep a running list on my phone of staples we always need — things like pasta, eggs, frozen veggies, and some proteins. When I spot a good deal on something we regularly eat, I grab extra. Like last week, chicken breasts were on sale, so I stocked up and froze half. This little routine saves me time and stress, and I’ve actually cut down on food waste because I buy only what I’ll use. Plus, it feels pretty good knowing I’m feeding my family well without blowing the budget. Sometimes I mix in easy hacks, like prepping veggies ahead or using slow cooker recipes that I throw together before work. It’s not gourmet, but it works — and that’s what counts. What about you? How do you make grocery shopping less of a headache? Would love to swap tips. #Food #CostOfLiving

how i stopped dreading grocery shopping and started making it work for me 🛒✨
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