Saving Spree

So, today I had a very exciting day. I have recently decided that for the time being, while my smallest child Emma who is 4, is still at home, I would like to continue to be a "stay-at-home" mom. This, unfortunately, comes at the disadvantage of not bringing in cold hard cash. In these hard times, this is certainly needed, but I was inspired by watching the show "Extreme Couponing" and decided that instead of getting a job, I was going to create cash flow by saving money. In another life, I was an RN but this was not a fit for me. My true passion is singing, creating, and parenting. I decided that I would not settle for anything less than my true calling and destiny. So, this brings me back to my exciting day. I decided in October of this year to begin clipping coupons and trying to save money. I have started printing coupons from the web, have subscribed to the Sunday paper, and have a humble coupon folder. Most of my coupons sat unorganized in this folder so yesterday, I decided to spend time organizing the coupons so I could save more. I spent all day yesterday-about 7 hours give or take, clipping and organizing 3 months of coupons. Today, I spent part of the day, approximately 8 hours give or take (driving, eating, sauntering around store), shopping in a leisurely way! So I spent about $265 today and saved $265! So I made $265 just clipping coupons and shopping. I also bought things I avoided buying in the past such as nice moisturizer because it was too expensive! So, why am I writing this? Not to toot my own horn but because I realized I made $17.00 per hour this week just staying at home, clipping coupons and shopping! Last year when I worked at a bakery, I made less than this much working 32 hours a week! So, today, instead of a shopping spree, I had a savings spree! I hope that this inspires some of you who think coupons are a waste of time because they really can give you hope and make a difference in your finances. For the longest time, I thought I needed to find a "work at home" job and now I've realized, coupons are the answer! So please, get some coupons and go on a savings spree. I promise you will be happy you did!

Ode to the Homemaker

Hello,

I am Sara and I proudly profess to be a homemaker and mother of 3 girls ages 4, 6, and 8. Some might not see this as a job but I certainly do. If only we were paid for all the things we do on a daily basis. Some have said we should make over 100,000 a year! Since I have been at home, I have found ways to save money and be creative. I love cooking, creating, singing, dancing, decorating, and being a wife and mom. I am also new to being gluten free and I want to share some of my recipes and the things I have learned so far for others who may need help with this as well. I have recently become an avid couponer-nowhere near those ladies on extreme couponing-but I am my way and want to help others who may need advice. So-Martha Stewart-step aside because The Helpful Homemaker is here!