27 and Frugal

Dropbox is a free win/osx/linux program you install on multiple computers.

It offers you free (for basic service) storage space on their server that syncs all of your files automatically on every computer you have it installed on.

Simply set up an account and link each different computer install to your account.

Anytime a file is changed, it is automatically uploaded to their server and every Dropbox folder is synced at the same time.

When you first turn your computer on, dropbox will sync up all your files in the “My Dropbox” folder. When installed, it looks just like any other explorer/finder window and you can drag/drop files just as you would any other files. It is seamless to use.

You can also access all of your Dropbox files on their website in any web browser from any machine.

No, you do not have to install Dropbox on your friends computer to access your documents. Just log into your account on their website and magically all of your files appear to view or download.

There is even an iPhone app that provides you mobile access to all of your Dropbox files. No more usb sticks, no more emailing.

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Every Friday I will list personal recommendations of movies that are available on Netflix Instant Watch so you can enjoy a frugal weekend instead of buying that $10 movie ticket.

Weekend Picks: November 19-21: Freak You Out Edition

Teeth
Genre: Comedy
Mood: Severed penises
93 mins; 2006
Leslie Rating: 3/5

Saw VI
Genre: Horror
Mood: Grossed out
90 mins; 2009
Leslie Rating: n/a

The Human Centipede: First Sequence
Genre: Cerebral
Mood: Vomit inducing (apparently)
92 mins; 2009
Leslie Rating: n/a

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Living a frugal lifestyle often leaves us with a “no spend” mentality for anything, especially when dealing with internal problems we think we can handle ourselves.

However, solving these internal problems can become a useful resource in our lives; which is what frugality is all about. Investing in yourself and spending your own money, means you will appreciate what you receive. 

Because You Really Are Worth It

Has there been something you wanted to do for yourself but are putting it off because it is “too expensive”? Would it make your life better in the long-term? Will you end up needing it in five or ten years anyway? How long have you been considering it?

If we can buy $100+ dresses, shoes, purses, tools, computer supplies, etc., why do we not even consider expensive services that will better our own lives? Although many of these services (therapy, gym) may not be noticeable right away to anyone but ourselves, that does not mean the money is wasted or the service is not worth it.

Budgets are Flexible For a Reason

While I have always dealt with family issues, I have pushed off going to therapy because of the high cost. I knew that it would be beneficial for me but I just could not justify $100/hour to talk to someone.

Then I thought back to a pair of shoes I bought recently, that was practically the price of a one hour session. My new netbook cost three sessions. My monthly train pass is the cost of three sessions as well.

After recently ending a relationship, I decided it was time to finally do something for myself that will have long-term benefits. With the encouragement of my friend Sarah, I adjusted my monthly budget and found I could comfortably afford therapy sessions.

This is what budgeting is for. Making adjustments to fit the important stuff in and taking the less important stuff out.

Unfortunately, I did have to cut into my monthly budgeted savings, but I still feel it is a justified cost. Investing $300/mo on myself now will mean less headaches later.

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Every Friday I will list personal recommendations of movies that are available on Netflix Instant Watch so you can enjoy a frugal weekend instead of buying that $10 movie ticket.

Weekend Picks: November 12-14

The Kite Runner
Genre: Drama
Mood: Emotional
127 mins; 2007
Leslie Rating: n/a

Apocalypse Now Redux
Genre: Drama
Mood: Vietnam War
195 mins; 2001
Leslie Rating: 5/5

Desperately Seeking Susan
Genre: Comedy
Mood: 80’s Madonna
103 mins; 1985
Leslie Rating: 4/5

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Sex may be free, but safe sex has a price tag.

Condoms

If you are buying condoms, I suggest buying them in bulk on Amazon. If you are buying them to begin with, chances are you will use that amount before they expire.

If you live near a college, see if you can purchase them for a discounted price from their pharmacy.

Go to Planned Parenthood. They hand out condoms like candy on Halloween.

Birth Control

If you do not have insurance, go to Planned Parenthood for your birth control. The cost is determined on the type of birth control you use and your yearly income. It can be anywhere from $5-25. They also let you purchase more than one pill pack at a time, which is very convenient.

If you have insurance, ask for a generic prescription. My generic birth control is $10/pack. Some places offer their generic prescriptions for as little as $4.

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I love hosting even though it really is not that cost effective. Hosting a party at home is a sacrifice I make since I enjoy cooking, baking and getting my friends together. I like the environment of a home better than a bar. While it is cheaper than having dinner and drinks out, it is still costing me more to host than it does my friends for showing up. However, it is possible to throw a party on a budget.

Party Food

Food is the most expensive part of throwing a party. Here are some tips to control your food purchasing for the party:

• Make foods based on ingredients you already have at home. This allows you to try out new recipes and spend less on groceries.
• Don’t over buy. Trust me, people only complain when you run out of drinks! Also keep in mind that there will always be last minute cancellations.
• For movie nights, there is nothing cheaper than home-made microwave popcorn. One bag of popcorn kernels lasts a very long time and three bags of popcorn will cost you pennies!
• Home-made baked goods are another cheap option. Simple items like cookies, brownies or muffins are cheap and snackable.
• Buying whole celery and carrots is always cheaper than the pre-chopped ones. Mange your time by chopping & cleaning while your brownies are baking in the oven.

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Every Friday I will list personal recommendations of movies that are available on Netflix Instant Watch so you can enjoy a frugal weekend instead of buying that $10 movie ticket.

Weekend Picks: November 5-7

Alice in Wonderland
Genre: Family Fantasy
Mood: Tim Burton
108 mins; 2010
Leslie Rating: 3/5

Billy Eliot
Genre: Drama
Mood: Inspirational
110 mins; 2000
Leslie Rating: 4/5

Wristcutters: A Love Story
Genre: Dark Comedy
Mood: Quirky romance
88 mins; 2006
Leslie Rating: 4/5

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Last year, in March, I took what was supposed to be a frugal trip to London, England. I found a flight for about $427, stayed at my friend’s flat, and did not do too many tourist activities.

Then I came home and unpacked.

Physical Signs of Bed Bugs

A few weeks later, I noticed my hand/fingers were itchy, red and blotchy. At first I thought it was a rash. I dismissed thoughts of them being bites as it was March in New Jersey; too cold for mosquitoes. I changed soaps, detergents, and went on a cleaning rampage. The red marks continued. In my search, I found some mention of bed bugs so I checked my pillows and mattress for the marks and, unfortunately, found signs of them.

Visible Signs of Bed Bugs

There were small black/brown dots on my pillow case that had points extending out at the sides (sort of like a 4 pointed star). There were also brown streaks and these dots on the bottom of my mattress. It was not all that noticeable at first, so be sure to look carefully.

Service Estimates

I looked up termination services online and in the phone book and called every single one for an estimate. It was a pain in the tush! For our three bedroom, two level townhouse where signs of the bed bugs were only in one room we were quoted as high as $800 & $743 for a whole house bombing!

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