Quesadillas are not only quick and easy, but also flexible!

What You Need (Core)
2 Tortillas
Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, your preference)
Mexican seasoning (you better use mine!)

What You Do (3 Options)
1. Toaster Oven: Put quesadilla in toaster oven and toast until cheese melts
2. Oven: Put quesadilla on a baking sheet and bake at 350 for 10 mins or until cheese melts
3. Stove Top: With olive oil on a pan, place your quesadilla and cook for ~10 minutes then flip

Add-Ins
Chicken
Rice
Corn
Peppers
Onions
Black beans
Anything!

This recipe is so flexible it’s ridiculous! You can add pretty much any vegetable inside your quesadilla, just allow for longer cooking times. I suggest sprinkling the mexican seasoning on any of the additional items you prepare. Rub it on the chicken, sprinkle over peppers, etc. If you get the quesadilla pretty stuffed, just one or two triangles will be more than enough to fill you up. Feel free to serve with sour cream and guacamole as well.

Share your favorite quesadilla combinations!

Every weekend, I will detail my activities and expenses to provide an example of how to implement a frugal mindset while still having a fun and active life.

Friday

I had plans to meet up with some friends for dinner on Friday night. I fixed myself a grilled cheese after work and snacked on some cashews on the way over. I did not purchase anything at the restaurant but still enjoyed myself. It was nice chatting with friends, some who I had not seen in a while. After dinner, we went to a local ice cream shoppe. I ate a delicious chocolate chip ice cream cone and socialized some more with friends.

Friday Total Cost:$3

Saturday

My friends were married on Saturday, so I spent most of the day getting ready for and attending to wedding things. They had an open bar so no money was spent!

Saturday Total Cost:$0

Sunday

On Sunday, I went to the mall to see if I could get my dress fixed. The final result was a $140 credit and my dress was sent off to the seamstress. Afterward, I had lunch at Chipotle, then walked it off at the Ken Lockwood Gorge. Then put it all back on with some ice cream at Gronsky’s Milk House.

Sunday Total Cost:-$130.80

Total Weekend Cost: -$127.80!

Every weekend, I will detail my activities and expenses to provide an example of how to implement a frugal mindset while still having a fun and active life.

Friday

Since this was a long weekend, I took advantage of the extra day by doing nothing on Friday. I made a small dinner and got caught up with bills and things. Not too exciting, but it had to get done.

Friday Total Cost:$0

Saturday

I spent Saturday at the shore with some friends. I packed a lunch, brought a drink and some snacks. We took a route without any tolls and less traffic. An hour later, we were relaxing on the beach. My friends ate lunch at a place on the boardwalk where a slice of pizza and a drink was $8. I sat at the table with them eating my yummy sandwich.

Later that night, I had plans to watch the UFC fight at Buffalo Wild Wings. I knew I would eat there, which is why I did not want to eat out earlier in the day. Unfortunately, BWW changed their boneless wings into disgusting fried crap so that was rather disappointing. The Blue Moon’s helped washed the ickiness down.

Saturday Total Cost:$20

Sunday

I spent Sunday morning chatting with a friend at Pantera Bread ($2) then lounged around in the afternoon. I met up with some friends to watch fireworks in the evening. We had a great time! I had some pizza and beers there as well.

Sunday Total Cost:$7

Monday

I spent my long weekend day just being a bum. I made beer pancakes for breakfast and they were oh-so-delicious. Since, it was ridiculously hot outside, I stayed in and watched Zombieland on Instant Watch. Then made myself a quick dinner of grilled chicken, broccoli and a baked potato with my seasoning salt.

Friday Total Cost:$0

Total Weekend Cost: $27

When it comes to commuting to work or school, there is much more to be concerned about than just the price of gas and oil changes. Your mental well-being takes a toll when driving in congested traffic, bad weather, or in a hurry. Some folks like to have a good 20 minute drive from work to home to give them some “downtime” to transition into home-mode. On the other hand, some just cannot bear commuter traffic. We all have our driving preferences and limits. What are yours?

Driving Across The State

A few years ago, I took a job that involved an hour commute. Gas alone cost over $300/month plus constant oil changes. I did that for a year, then caved and moved closer. It was not because of the cost (my rent was super cheap), it was the traffic that drove me crazy.

Some days it would take me 2 hours to get to work. I worked until 6:30p just to avoid heavy traffic. Even with all the shortcuts I learned, it was very stressful. Sometimes I would be exhausted by the time I got to work!

After a year, I moved closer decreasing my commute back to 30 minutes. Even though rent was more costly, it evened out with the money I had been spending on gas and car maintenance

Driving To Another State

My new and current job involves commuting to NYC from NJ. I knew it would be expensive from the beginning; the train, the taxes and the more expensive everything in the city. I also knew I would be back to another long commute.

But I took the job and I am definitely glad I did. I cringed at the $279 monthly pass but really grew to like the stress-free, drive-free train ride. I can sleep in the morning and relax (or write blog posts as I am doing now) on the way home. It is an hour to myself, which is a pretty rare occurrence.

Recently, New Jersey Transit increased fares by 25%. My 1hr 15min commute is now $349/month! Part of me wants to find a cheaper alternative even though it will definitely involve driving on traffic-heavy roads. The other part of me just wants to keep my stress-free albeit expensive commute.

I calculated that driving closer with a friend might save me $40/month; but would include driving in heavy traffic. Something I truly dread.

So readers…

What are your thoughts on long commutes? Commutes involving public transportation? The cost of commuting?

Also, how much more are you willing to pay for convenience in general? I have written about the cost of convenience before but, at the risk of sounding hypocritical, I truly like this convenience.

I am genuinely interested in opinions and advice so please share.

Free samples are a great example of how frugality is more about being resourceful than it is about being cheap.

Cheap people will use free samples solely because they are free. They have no intention of ever buying the product and simply think of the item as a free meal, free lipstick, free soap, etc.

Frugal consumers, on the other hand, will focus more on the fact that it is a sample. Samples allow you to try a product with no investment. If you like the sample, then spending money on it will be a smart purchase. If you do not, then no harm done. You did not waste your money.

Trying New Foods

The sample can be something petty like a new ice cream flavor. Step outside your boundaries and ask your local ice cream parlor to try a small sample spoonful of a new flavor. This is how I grew to love gelato.

Even Chipotle will give you a sample of their different seasoned toppings. This way you can try the food without risk.

Trying New Make-Up/Beauty Products

One of the most financially savvy examples of free samples is with make-up/beauty products. Sephora is great with offering free samples with your online purchase. In the stores, you can ask for a sample of any of their perfumes. Used wisely, this sample will definitely last you a few weeks. What a great way to see just how that scent reacts to your skin without spending $40.

Sephora also offers samples in the form of actually trying out the make-up right there in the store. Just find a color you want to try but might be a little afraid to. Ask one of the staff if they can apply it on you. Be sure to take advantage and ask questions about matching, weight, and application.

It is especially important to use free samples for expensive items. Lush products have a hefty price tag but the cashiers are more than willing to give you a free sample of everything there. Definitely take advantage of this. From experience, I have learned to always request a sample before trying a new product.

Trying New Medications

You can also receive samples of prescription medication. This is especially useful if you are sensitive to various prescriptions. If you are prescribed a new medication or want to change from one that is not working, ask your doctor if she has any samples available so you can see how your body reacts to the new medication without spending your money on the full prescription. This will save you money, time and frustration.

Risk-Free, Guilt-Free Spending

I’m happy to hear some twitter favs use free samples wisely, as well. @eemusings takes advantage of the free samples at Lush and The Body Shop and @pintucked likes the samples offered by Sephora.

Next time you see a product you want to purchase but are not sure you will like it, ask for a sample Most places are more than willing to take a little sacrifice in hopes you will make another purchase This way you are spending your money on products that work for you and you are making a smart, informed decision.

Airlines have always been fee-happy when it comes to checked luggage. Weight restriction and contents were the biggest charge-causing items. Then airlines started charging for more than one checked luggage. Now it’s for all checked luggage period. And Southwest is even charging for carry-on’s. This means the more efficiently you pack, the more money you save!

Roll With It

I took a 10 day trip in the summer, with 10+ days worth of clothes, including running clothes and shoes all in one carry on and one large purse. Everything fit because I rolled all my clothing. I stuffed socks inside my shoes. I used every nook and cranny in that piece of luggage to comfortably pack my clothes into. However, I did not overstuff anything.

Rolling your clothes makes a better use of the space within your luggage. It takes up less room and leaves less wrinkles in your clothing. You can even roll up outfits together to make unpacking easier.

This is my first video and I know it’s a bit rough, so please bear with me. Here is how I roll-up my clothes to pack. I have no idea if this is the “right” way or not, but it works for me!

Do you need it?

It is not about cramming everything you own into a small bag. The important part of packing is to figure out what to bring with you!

It is okay to overpack a little so you are prepared for those unexpected events or turns of the weather. However, this extra packing can still be addressed efficiently. For example, if you are traveling by plane and bringing a coat with you, carry it. Even if it is 90 degrees out right now, do not pack your coat. You usually (don’t quote me on this) can carry a coat along with you on the plane without it being counted as a carry-on. This way it is not taking up luggage real estate.

There are some excellent online travel checklists that will provide specific lists depending on where you are going. One Bag & The Universal Packing List are both great packing resources.

Plan!

Knowing exactly what you will be doing there will be a big help. Will you be walking around a lot (bring sneakers) or just lounging on the beach (bring flip flops). Will you be going out to clubs (bring heels & band-aids). Is the weather humid (skip the straightener).

Travel Size

Put your beauty products into smaller bottles. Even if you are checking your luggage, this will save space and you should not need an entire bottle of shampoo in even a two week period of time.

Moving

Packing to move is a whoooooole other animal. This can save you money as well! As the girl who moved twice a year for 5 years, I know my way around an empty cardboard box. Look for Pt 2. Moving soon, for details in how packing to move the right way can save you money.

Readers: Leave your traveling tips below!

As I have said time and time again, being frugal means being resourceful. There are many resources we can tap into to save some money while still living fulfilling lives. Families and friends are an excellent resource to use (but not take advantage of). Before you head out and run to the store as soon as you think you may need something, why not see if a friend has the item first. Know a family member who has an item that he no longer uses but keeps around, why not see if you could borrow for it for a short time? It will help them clear up some space and give you a new toy. Need to free yourself from distractions, try lending out your toys to friends so you can get your work done.

There are many different reasons to borrow from or lend an item to a friend, family member or neighbor. Keep these in mind before making a purchase!

New To You

My boyfriend upgraded to a PlayStation 3 a year ago which means I get to borrow his PlayStation 2. Since I never owned a PlayStation 2 before, every single game is new to me. I know that they are not wide screen and do not have fancy graphics, but the games are still enjoyable. I have been playing Kingdom Hearts, Final Fantasy X, and Dance Dance Revolution all for free!

I Don’t Need It…. Right Now

I had a cat a few years ago who I spoiled like you would not believe. Part of this spoiling was to buy him a 77″ tall cat tree. After my cat passed away, I no longer had a use for the cat tree but I did want to keep it for when I got another cat. Unfortunately, the townhouse I currently live in does not allow pets so I know it will be some time before I have another one. One afternoon, my friends mentioned that they wanted to buy a cat tree for their kitty but was not sure if she would like it. Since I do not have a use for it at the moment, I let them borrow it to try it out. Fortunately, their cat loves it! In fact, they already know that when I take it back, their cat will demand her own!

I Need It… But Only For a Day

There are many times where you need an item just for one day or one project. Borrowing tools is a great way to save money. Now keep in mind, this is where it is important to have quality resources. Many people are wary of lending out expensive items because they fear the item being damaged or never returned. Show that you can be trusted by returning the borrowed items on time and in the same condition you received them. This friend is doing you a favor, be respectful.

Loaning To Help Yourself

There are situations where you may loan someone an item because it helps you. For example, my friend Matt asked me if he could leave his PlayStation 3 with me the week before a paper due. He knows that it is just too hard for him to concentrate on school work when he has the PS3 around to distract him. So, to help himself out, he loans me the gaming console whenever he has an important assignment to do. Of course, I am such a good friend that I do not mind taking it off his hands!

Be Respectful

As I mentioned above, always be respectful when borrowing an item. A friend is helping you save money by loaning you an item instead of having you make the purchase yourself. Remember, if someone is loaning an item to you, expect to return the favor someday. This is why it is important to have quality people in our lives.

Being frugal means being resourceful. A great way to be more productive and thus save money is by managing your time better. There are many times throughout the day that we find ourselves with downtime. What is the best use of this time?

I can’t just sit here!

When I first moved to New Jersey, I was continually frustrated at having to sit in my car while someone pumped my gas for me. I thought it was a terrible use of my time (pre-iPhone). I even started keeping tweezers in my car so I could do some eyebrow maintenance while I waited. What I did not realize is that these few minutes would be put to better use by simply doing nothing. Sitting there with some time to myself was something I needed more than trimmed eyebrows. Being able to mentally organize my to-do list or actively think through some decisions made me feel more calm and organized. It became a timeout from technology and distractions.

Doing nothing is okay

And that is how I have decided to use my new 50 minute train ride to NYC for work; by doing nothing. Well, in the evening at least. In the morning I find it most useful to take a morning nap (I know you are jealous!). In the afternoon, I just sit there. Sometimes I read, which is especially nice in a distraction-free environment. Sometimes I just listen to music. Actually listen. When was the last time you did that?! Having an hour of forced introspective quiet time has made me realize just how little time I spend with myself.

One of the simplest ways to save money is to bring your own lunch to work everyday. It is easy to make excuses, “I don’t have time to pack a lunch,” “I get sick of sandwiches,” “I hate leftovers.” Enough already! There are a ton of lunch foods outside of sandwiches that are just as easy to bring to work. There are also many ways to kick your standard sandwich up a notch. Many foods even taste better the next day and are especially easy for cooking newbs!

Chili, Soups & Stews

These meals do not take long to put together. The most time consuming aspect is letting them simmer for 30-60 minutes but you can just watch TV or do pilates while you are waiting.

Chili is nothing other than tomatoes, meat, beans and spices! Put it all in a pot and walk away. Leave it in the fridge and bring it to work the next day. It’ll smell great and taste even better!

Chicken noodle soup is just as easy! I’ve already posted my favorite super-easy chicken noodle soup recipe. It’s simply chicken broth, chicken and veggies. Again, just boil, simmer then eat. Soup reheats perfectly and the flavors usually blend together to taste even better when reheated.

Similarly, beef stew is just beef bouillon, beef, water and veggies. You can season it to your preference. This will be a super easy dinner and an even yummier lunch.

Chili, soups and stews work so well when reheated because it completely eliminates the “soggy food” complaint. It is also very filling and not too messy to eat for lunch. In fact, you probably already purchase soup or chili for lunch at that overpriced cafe down the street!

Salads

Another easy lunch option is a salad. This involves a little bit more prep, but it is pretty easy to tear up some lettuce and put some chopped up veggies in a plastic container, then a side of salad dressing. There’s a zillion different veggies you can add to keep your salads from getting boring and redundant.

Sammiches

Lastly, we have sandwiches. Wait! Hear me out! One very easy way to punch up your sandwiches is by turning it into a wrap! Easy, right?

You can also change up your meats, cheese and, most importantly, the condiments. Instead of buying ham, try prosciutto. Put down the cheddar and try muenster. Also, using a spread like pesto or hummus adds a lot of depth to a lil’ old sandwich!

In Desperation…

Hey, if you’re really crunched for time, just throw a can of soup in your bag and you’re good to go!

Readers, I ask you… how do you keep your “brown bag” lunches from being boring?

When starting to get your finances in check, everyone will tell you to create a budget. Budgets are key to tracking your spending. Included in your budget, should be a category for savings. However, if you do not track your savings any other way, it is easy to lose sight of your savings goals!

Tracking savings allows you to see financial improvement; to see how successful your budgeting actually is!

Savings Tracker

I have created a separate worksheet just for savings within my budget spreadsheet. Savings and spending go hand-in-hand, so it really is important to keep these together.

My monthly budget & savings worksheet can be downloaded here: http://www.27andfrugal.com/files/easy_peasy_2010_budget.xls

If you already have a budget that works for you, simply copy/paste the Savings worksheet and use it on it’s own.

Ideally, the worksheet should mimic your savings account, so start with your beginning of the year balance. This sheet will be filled in automatically once you input your savings into the monthly budget sheets. Or simply manually enter in how much you are transferring to savings each month.

The interest does need to be entered manually from your monthly bank statement. Seeing exactly how much or how little interest you are earning every month may make you want to look into alternative saving account options.

The box on the right is the most important part of the whole sheet… your goal! Do everything you can to keep this goal in the back of your mind each time you make a purchase. When you are over 50% of the way to your goal, you will have incentive to put more into your savings every month.

Set a Savings Goal

It is important to have a savings goal. This will help curb your spending and help prioritize your spending habits. If you make a special “vacation fund”, then next time you are tempted to spend $12 on a movie ticket, you might stop and think that the $12 could be better used while onvacation. Or that you would rather eat out on vacation, rather than the same old restaurants around home.

You are on Your Way…

Tracking your spending is just one step in getting your finances in order. Being able to use this worksheet to track your spending will bring you even closer to seeing the balances you want to see. The idea of this worksheet is to be more aware of your savings account in general, especially if you make monthly automatic transfers. It is easy to forget about your balance and goal when you are not looking at it every month. You could make a similar worksheet to track a credit card. Just jot down your balance, each monthly payment and how much you have left to pay it off.