Your Cheapskates Club Newsletter: 19:14 Bright ideas to save you money
1. Cath's Corner
2. In the Tip Store - Medicine with a Longer Expiry Date, Sparkling Spa Filters, Start Now to Build a Christmas Stockpile
3. Cheapskate's Winning Tip - The 52 Week Debt Reduction Plan
4. Submit Your Tip - Your best money, time and energy saver could be a winner!
5. Living Green in 2014 - Composting, a Great Way to Go Green
6. On the Menu with Anne - Australia's Favourite Cake
7. The $300 a Month Food Challenge with Wendy - Inventory Time
8. Cheapskates Buzz - Cheapskaters are talking in the Forum and on Cath's blog
9. Member's Featured Blog - Responsibility by Bluebell234
10. Last Week's Question - Tips for Sticking to the $300 a Month Food Challenge when you work full time
11. This Week's Question - My citrus trees are sick!
12. Join the Cheapskates Club
13. Gift Memberships
14. Frequently Asked Questions
15. Contact Details
1. Cath's Corner
Hello Cheapskaters,
I hope you have had a fantastically frugal week. This past week has been super productive here. I'm not sure why, but all those annoying little jobs that get put aside for "when I have time" have all been done. Buttons have been sewn on, stains have been treated, mixes have been made and bagged up ready to use over the next few weeks.
I love to make up bulk quantities of my favourite mixes, bag them and add them to the pantry. I made up cornbread mix, instant custard mix, noodles and sauce, onion soup mix and hot chocolate mix, all ready for the cooler weather and busy weeks coming up. They're as convenient as packets but so much cheaper and healthier. I'm not alone in my love of MOOing mixes, it seems you are too.
"Dear Cath, I can't thank you enough for the Cheapskates Club. I am sitting here trying to do my menu plan and struggling a bit with my recent bid to avoid as many additives and nasties in my food due to asthma and allergies. Thought I'd check the website for an alternative to stock powder and onion soup mix and lo and behold there it was! I am constantly amazed at the gems of information contained therein and have promptly renewed my membership. Please keep up the good work, it is so refreshing to know that we can continue cooking for our families the way generations before us have, instead of believing we have to buy that rubbish from the supermarkets:)." Margaret
"Hi Cath, I'm loving the bulk mixes in the Recipe File. I filled the pantry this week with mixes ready for when my in-laws arrive from Vancouver next week. Can't wait to treat them with real home baked from scratch goodies made in minutes from my MOO mixes." Leonie Baxter
"Love, love, love the MOO Taco Seasoning. With littlies in the house I can adjust the chilli to suit them so they gobble up their tacos. And the smell! When I open that jar and get a whiff of that beautiful, fresh aroma - I'll never buy a stale, over-priced packet again. Love it!" Grace Cheong
"Thanks for the renewal reminder Cath. It made me realise how much my shopping habits have changed in just one year! Before Cheapskates I used to love grocery shopping. It was my relaxation. I'd go to the shops every day and wander around, picking up the things I was sure we needed. Then 11 months ago I found Cheapskates and discovered the Tip Store and the Recipe File. Now I shop once a fortnight and I buy real food and ingredients to cook from scratch and make safe cleaning products and amazing beauty products. The trolley is still full, but instead of draining our bank account, we are actually saving over $120 a week!" Debbie White
Before I go, don't forget our Mother's Day sale - it ends on Sunday night. We have five great offers; four of them include FREE Platinum memberships and one is a hefty discount on new memberships.
Enjoy your newsletter and have a great week everyone.
PS: Love our site? We love referrals! Send a note to your favourite newspapers, magazines, radio stations, TV stations, friends and relatives, and tell them about us!
PPS: You can read this newsletter and past copies on the website in the Newsletter Archive.
2. From The Tip Store
Returns/Refunds/Warranties
There is a smartphone app called "shopsmart". It is by NSW Fair Trading and includes useful information on refunds and returns, warranties, lay-bys and online shopping. It also has the ability for you to take a photo of your receipt to store if the need arises for you to need it. There is also a warranty reminder so you know when it will expire. It's a great app, especially for someone like me who never remembers where I've stored the receipt, or for the receipts that like to fade over time!
Contributed by Katherine Field
Website: http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/About_us/Online_services/Mobile_apps/ShopSmart_app.page?
A Frugal Fairy Party, No Skill Required
I'm planning my daughter's third birthday. She is too young for most games still, she wants a fairy cake (I can't make them!!) and I want there to be nice themed food. So far I have surprise play-doh eggs (cost $1 per egg) for the children to take home, fairy bags (a glad bag with a decorated fairy peg holding it together with popcorn and plain chips on each side), fruit kebabs, star fairy bread, some dips for the adults and some great easy chalk games for the kids to play on the cement. All from the Internet! I haven't spent a fortune and I know my little girl will love all the thought that has gone into it and her fairy cake which I'm attempting myself!
Contributed by Corrie Pierce
Remember Me
I am a Grandmother and I write stories for my grandchildren. I always feature them but I also tell them in story form things I can remember from my childhood like the first time I saw snow. I also include little fun stories about their Mums (my daughters). Each time I write a story featuring them I try to find a little trinket that features in the story. These I keep separately in a little box. It's not expensive to do this, just costs your imagination and the love in your heart for them.
Contributed by Heather Ogier
There are more than 11,000 great tips in the Tip Store
3. THE ART OF LIVING THE CHEAPSKATES WAY 1-DAY WORKSHOP
The art of Living the cheapskates Way Workshop
Come along and join us for a whole day of fun, frivolity, food and frugality as we refine the Art of Living the Cheapskates Way.
Places are limited for this hands on workshop (yes, you'll be put to work!) to be held on Saturday 17th May 2014
Join Cath and guest speaker Wendy, moderator of The $300 a Month Food Challenge for a whole day of fun and frugality as you refine the art of living the Cheapskates way.
Click here to book your place at this workshop
4. Submit your tip
The Cheapskate's Club website is over 3,000 pages of money saving hints, tips and ideas. Let's get together and make the Cheapskates Club Australia's largest online hint, tip and idea library. Share your favourite money saving, time saving or energy saving hint and be in the running to win a one-year membership to The Cheapskate Club. We publish a Winning Tip each Thursday, so enter your great money, time or energy saving idea now.
Share your favourite hint or tip that saves money, time and energy and be in the running to win a one-year subscription to The Cheapskate Journal.
Remember, you have to be in it to win it!
Submit your tip
5. Living Green in 2014
Making Sustainable Living Fun
If you’re trying to help kids understand the importance of sustainable living, it helps to get them to participate in the process. Here are a few tips for getting kids involved in your new lifestyle:
•get kids to help plant vegetables and fruits in the garden – there are many interesting varieties that are fun for kids
•set up recycling centers in your home with pictures on the containers for kids who can’t read yet
•involve children in the process of painting and repurposing furniture items
•give your children chores to help take care of agricultural animals on your property
•teach children to sew
•teach children to cook with fresh vegetables and fruits
•have family nights when you discuss the importance of the planet
•plant trees together in your backyard that produce fruit and flowers
•take children with you to thrift stores and teach them how to make choices about what is appropriate for use
•volunteer with your children – help them to see that the choices they are making can impact others in a good way
•let your children take part in the planning process of gardening or farming, give them a role and responsibilities
•read children’s stories about the earth and the environment
Involving your children in making changes to your home that promote sustainable living can help them to develop habits that will last a lifetime. Your children will be the future generation that will continue to care for the planet.
6. On the Menu with Anne
Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie
A few weeks ago I tried a new recipe (from the Vegetarian section of the Recipe File) for Mock Shepherd's Pie. It was delicious! My meat-loving mob devoured it and requested it again the next week. Since then I've made it four times and put it on the menu for this week too. It made six hearty serves. We use four serves and I have been freezing the two extra serves for quick dinners and it freezes, thaws and re-heats very well. The basic stew also makes great pie filling and goes down well on toast too. As a meatless meal it is a good, frugal, versatile recipe.
Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie
Ingredients:
1 tin Sanitarium Nutmeat, mashed
1 pkt cream of mushroom soup
1 large onion, diced
½ cup peas
½ cup corn kernels
1 large carrot, diced
1 cup water
1 tbsp gravy mix
1 tbsp tomato sauce
3 large potatoes, boiled or steamed until tender
½ cup grated cheese
Method:
Place first 9 ingredients in a large saucepan, bring to boil. Turn down to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender and the gravy has thickened. Mash potato. Place stew mixture in a greased pie or casserole dish. Top with mashed potato, sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake 20 minutes in a moderate oven until cheese is melted and golden brown.
This week we will be eating:
Friday: Lamb and vegetable soup with toasted crumpets
Saturday: MOO veggie burgers (patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, beetroot, cheese and sauce)
Sunday: Roast chicken, baked vegetables, peas, gravy
Monday: Fried rice, spring rolls
Tuesday: Pasta bake and salad
Wednesday: Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots
Thursday: Mushroom quiche, wedges and salad
In the fruit bowl: apples, mandarins, kiwi fruit, bananas
In the cake tin: Banana and sultana loaf, chocolate muffins, raspberry coconut slice
There are over 1,300 other great money saving meal ideas in the Recipe File
7. The $300 a Month Food Challenge with Wendy
Welcome everyone to the food challenge.
For many years my family has always tried to be mindful of the things we have. We try not to waste anything and we most certainly appreciate what we do have. With our reduced family budget this year we have adopted the motto "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle". The Cheapskates word "MO " (make our own) fits right in there too.
Here are some of the things we've been doing lately that fits right in the three "R's" -
* We sell some of our chicken's eggs. The egg cartons get used many times over as our customers always hand them back.
* Food portion sizes have reduced slightly and I'm freezing leftover food from dinner.
* Reducing our water usage by saving clean water from the showers to water vegie seedlings and small plants. I also save the final rinse water from the washing machine and pour it back in to wash the next load. This almost halves laundry water usage and reduces the amount of laundry powder needed.
* Glass jars are recycled and used for homemade jam.
* Spray bottles of any shape and size are washed and reused for many things like Miracle Spray, disinfectant, bleach, MOO air freshener. It's much cheaper to decant products into spray bottles than to buy it from the supermarket.
* Bread bags are reused many times for homemade bread. then used as bin liners or to clean out the kitty litter.
* Plastic containers are used instead of cling wrap, foil and snap lock bags.
* Ingredients are measured / weighed to reduce wastage.
* We use old face washers as kitchen cloths. A clean one is put out each day and the used one is put in the washing machine. They can last for 2 - 3 years.
All these things help to reduce our food and water bill. It also reduces landfill.
How do you adopt the motto "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle"?
Have a great week and BE ENCOURAGED!!!!
The $300 a Month Food Challenge
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?24-Take-up-the-challenge-!!!!
The Post that Started it All
http://www.cheapskates.com.au/pages/default.cfm?page_id=44265
8.Cheapskates Buzz
This week's hot forum topics
Homebaked Wholemeal Bread
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?1839-Homebaked-wholemeal-bread
Which Name Brands will you not Compromise On?
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?1517-Which-Name-Brands-will-you-not-compromise-on
Panic is Setting In
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?2447-Panic-is-setting-in
Most popular blog posts this week
Please, Please, Please Don't Let Marketing Dumb You Down
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2012/06/please-please-please-dont-let-marketing.html
The Slush Fund
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2013/03/the-slush-fund.html
Impossible Lasagne Pie
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2012/02/impossible-lasagne-pie.html
9. Member's Featured Blog
Platinum Cheapskates Club members have their very own Cheapskating blogs, and they are wonderful and inspirational and encouraging and even funny. This week's featured blog is written by Emmnwhite59.
Do I Really Need a New Laptop or Car? Do You?
Not that long ago in my Diploma of Sustainability class I was forced to endure a 20+minute video on STUFF. At first I ignored the video, after all I'm poor an I don't earn that much to go on shopping sprees so why does it matter? Weeks later I was thinking about the video. It was 3 years old but still very true to todays ways.
I was at University the other day and I noticed all the students there have brand new cars, some even 2012 BMWs, I looked at my car and felt a little put to shame, my car isn't that old (2007 model), yet I felt out-of-date. It got me wondering how many people out there are just keeping up with the Joneses and going into debt because of it? Not only are we racking up loans we know we shouldn't have, but we aren't helping the earth either (no i'm not a green house hippy, I still love my hair spray and body spray).
If we just kept most of the stuff we buy would we be happier knowing that not only did we save money but we still have the resources we needed before anyways? I put it to practice! I stopped buying stuff I KNEW I didn't require. I have enough jumpers, so I walked past that sale at the shops. I'm growing my own lettuce organically at home, so I walked past the Coles/Woolies lettuce. My car still runs and gets me from point A to B to C to D and more, so I ignored the car adds. I have less clutter and I'm not complaining about a credit card debt... Guess it sucks to own a brand new BMW now!
So take 20 minutes to watch this video, look past how quick she talks and how high on coffee she appears. Just really listen to the message behind it all. The link is below - and if you view it at the local library you save your own download for other stuff!
Login to read more Cheapskates Club member blogs
10. Last Week's Question
Last week's question was from Marg who wrote
"Can anyone suggest a foolproof way to eradicate weevils from the pantry (without poisoning humans of course). I have emptied the pantry thoroughly, cleaned it, washing down the shelving, bagging and sealing any offending or suspicious products. Even sultanas in well sealed canisters have become contaminated. From the desperado who now has very little in the pantry and no idea how they keep reappearing - it's either magic or my pantry is possessed! HELP!"
Ruth Dunne answered
I was advised many years ago to freeze flour etc. before I put it in the pantry. It kills any weevil eggs that may be there (quite common, apparently). I then store everything in airtight containers. Remove food source and the weevils should disappear. Wiping everything over with eucalyptus oil should help deter too.
Bonnie Carr answered
I have found the best way to get rid of weevils is to prevent them in the first place. For porridge, rice, flour, icing, bread crumbs and such items, simply place two or three bay leaves into each container. For some reason, these leaves prevent the weevil eggs from hatching. The eggs are almost microscopic so you can't see them at all but they are there. I have done this for over 30 years without any problems.
Michelle Webb answered
The problem is that there are eggs in the flour when you buy it, so having a sealed container doesn't stop them contaminating. The trick to fix this is to microwave the flour for 60 seconds when you buy it which kills the eggs and stops them hatching.
There are more answers to this question in the Tip Store.
Do you have a question that needs an answer?
Send us your question and receive the combined knowledge of your fellow Cheapskates to solve your problem!
Ask Your Question
11. This Week's Question
Dee writes
"Hello - I am about to become the proud and first time owner of a dishwasher! I would love to know how fellow Cheapskaters keep costs under control in terms of products that are recommended and keeping it in tip top shape. Thanks in advance for the help."
Do you have the answer?
If you have a suggestion or idea for Dee let us know. We'll enter your answer into our Tip of the Week competition, with a one-year membership to the Cheapskates Club as the prize too.
Send your answer
12. Join the Cheapskates Club
For just 10 cents a day you can join the Cheapskates Club and get exclusive access to the Cheapskate Journal, the monthly e-journal that shows you how to cut the costs of everyday living and still have fun.
Joining the Cheapskates Club gives you 24/7 access to the Members Centre with 1000's of money saving tips and articles.
Click here to join the Cheapskates Club today!
http://www.cheapskates.com.au/members/join_form.cfm?item_id=2271
13. Gift Memberships
Your family and friends will thank you for a whole year when you give them a Platinum Cheapskates Club membership as a gift.
It's so simple: just select the number of gift memberships required, click the Buy Now button and complete the Gift Membership order form (you must use this form to order gift memberships) and we'll get in touch with you to confirm the gift subscriptions.
Click here to order a gift membership right now!
14. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change my email address?
This one is easy. Members can update their email address or any other details by clicking on "Edit Profile" directly under their membership number after they have logged in to the Member's Centre. Subscribers to our free newsletter can use the Change Your Address form (under Customer Service in the menu) and fill it out. Once you've filled it in click the send button and we'll do the rest. Please remember to include your old email address so we can find it in the list as well as the new one.
How do I know when my membership should be renewed?
When you login to the Member's Centre you will be told how many days of membership you have left once you have 30 days left. Just click on the link to renew and your membership will just continue on, uninterrupted.
What will you do with my email address?
We never rent, trade or sell our email list to anyone for any reason whatsoever. You'll never get an unsolicited email from a stranger as a result of joining this list.
Read our privacy policy
How Did You Get on Our List?
You signed up to receive our Free Newsletter at our Cheapskates Club Web site or are a Platinum Cheapskates Club member
15. Contact Details
The Cheapskates Club -
Showing you how to live life
debt free, cashed up and laughing!
PO Box 5077 Studfield Vic 3152
www.cheapskates.com.au
[email protected]
2. In the Tip Store - Medicine with a Longer Expiry Date, Sparkling Spa Filters, Start Now to Build a Christmas Stockpile
3. Cheapskate's Winning Tip - The 52 Week Debt Reduction Plan
4. Submit Your Tip - Your best money, time and energy saver could be a winner!
5. Living Green in 2014 - Composting, a Great Way to Go Green
6. On the Menu with Anne - Australia's Favourite Cake
7. The $300 a Month Food Challenge with Wendy - Inventory Time
8. Cheapskates Buzz - Cheapskaters are talking in the Forum and on Cath's blog
9. Member's Featured Blog - Responsibility by Bluebell234
10. Last Week's Question - Tips for Sticking to the $300 a Month Food Challenge when you work full time
11. This Week's Question - My citrus trees are sick!
12. Join the Cheapskates Club
13. Gift Memberships
14. Frequently Asked Questions
15. Contact Details
1. Cath's Corner
Hello Cheapskaters,
I hope you have had a fantastically frugal week. This past week has been super productive here. I'm not sure why, but all those annoying little jobs that get put aside for "when I have time" have all been done. Buttons have been sewn on, stains have been treated, mixes have been made and bagged up ready to use over the next few weeks.
I love to make up bulk quantities of my favourite mixes, bag them and add them to the pantry. I made up cornbread mix, instant custard mix, noodles and sauce, onion soup mix and hot chocolate mix, all ready for the cooler weather and busy weeks coming up. They're as convenient as packets but so much cheaper and healthier. I'm not alone in my love of MOOing mixes, it seems you are too.
"Dear Cath, I can't thank you enough for the Cheapskates Club. I am sitting here trying to do my menu plan and struggling a bit with my recent bid to avoid as many additives and nasties in my food due to asthma and allergies. Thought I'd check the website for an alternative to stock powder and onion soup mix and lo and behold there it was! I am constantly amazed at the gems of information contained therein and have promptly renewed my membership. Please keep up the good work, it is so refreshing to know that we can continue cooking for our families the way generations before us have, instead of believing we have to buy that rubbish from the supermarkets:)." Margaret
"Hi Cath, I'm loving the bulk mixes in the Recipe File. I filled the pantry this week with mixes ready for when my in-laws arrive from Vancouver next week. Can't wait to treat them with real home baked from scratch goodies made in minutes from my MOO mixes." Leonie Baxter
"Love, love, love the MOO Taco Seasoning. With littlies in the house I can adjust the chilli to suit them so they gobble up their tacos. And the smell! When I open that jar and get a whiff of that beautiful, fresh aroma - I'll never buy a stale, over-priced packet again. Love it!" Grace Cheong
"Thanks for the renewal reminder Cath. It made me realise how much my shopping habits have changed in just one year! Before Cheapskates I used to love grocery shopping. It was my relaxation. I'd go to the shops every day and wander around, picking up the things I was sure we needed. Then 11 months ago I found Cheapskates and discovered the Tip Store and the Recipe File. Now I shop once a fortnight and I buy real food and ingredients to cook from scratch and make safe cleaning products and amazing beauty products. The trolley is still full, but instead of draining our bank account, we are actually saving over $120 a week!" Debbie White
Before I go, don't forget our Mother's Day sale - it ends on Sunday night. We have five great offers; four of them include FREE Platinum memberships and one is a hefty discount on new memberships.
Enjoy your newsletter and have a great week everyone.
PS: Love our site? We love referrals! Send a note to your favourite newspapers, magazines, radio stations, TV stations, friends and relatives, and tell them about us!
PPS: You can read this newsletter and past copies on the website in the Newsletter Archive.
2. From The Tip Store
Returns/Refunds/Warranties
There is a smartphone app called "shopsmart". It is by NSW Fair Trading and includes useful information on refunds and returns, warranties, lay-bys and online shopping. It also has the ability for you to take a photo of your receipt to store if the need arises for you to need it. There is also a warranty reminder so you know when it will expire. It's a great app, especially for someone like me who never remembers where I've stored the receipt, or for the receipts that like to fade over time!
Contributed by Katherine Field
Website: http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ftw/About_us/Online_services/Mobile_apps/ShopSmart_app.page?
A Frugal Fairy Party, No Skill Required
I'm planning my daughter's third birthday. She is too young for most games still, she wants a fairy cake (I can't make them!!) and I want there to be nice themed food. So far I have surprise play-doh eggs (cost $1 per egg) for the children to take home, fairy bags (a glad bag with a decorated fairy peg holding it together with popcorn and plain chips on each side), fruit kebabs, star fairy bread, some dips for the adults and some great easy chalk games for the kids to play on the cement. All from the Internet! I haven't spent a fortune and I know my little girl will love all the thought that has gone into it and her fairy cake which I'm attempting myself!
Contributed by Corrie Pierce
Remember Me
I am a Grandmother and I write stories for my grandchildren. I always feature them but I also tell them in story form things I can remember from my childhood like the first time I saw snow. I also include little fun stories about their Mums (my daughters). Each time I write a story featuring them I try to find a little trinket that features in the story. These I keep separately in a little box. It's not expensive to do this, just costs your imagination and the love in your heart for them.
Contributed by Heather Ogier
There are more than 11,000 great tips in the Tip Store
3. THE ART OF LIVING THE CHEAPSKATES WAY 1-DAY WORKSHOP
The art of Living the cheapskates Way Workshop
Come along and join us for a whole day of fun, frivolity, food and frugality as we refine the Art of Living the Cheapskates Way.
Places are limited for this hands on workshop (yes, you'll be put to work!) to be held on Saturday 17th May 2014
Join Cath and guest speaker Wendy, moderator of The $300 a Month Food Challenge for a whole day of fun and frugality as you refine the art of living the Cheapskates way.
Click here to book your place at this workshop
4. Submit your tip
The Cheapskate's Club website is over 3,000 pages of money saving hints, tips and ideas. Let's get together and make the Cheapskates Club Australia's largest online hint, tip and idea library. Share your favourite money saving, time saving or energy saving hint and be in the running to win a one-year membership to The Cheapskate Club. We publish a Winning Tip each Thursday, so enter your great money, time or energy saving idea now.
Share your favourite hint or tip that saves money, time and energy and be in the running to win a one-year subscription to The Cheapskate Journal.
Remember, you have to be in it to win it!
Submit your tip
5. Living Green in 2014
Making Sustainable Living Fun
If you’re trying to help kids understand the importance of sustainable living, it helps to get them to participate in the process. Here are a few tips for getting kids involved in your new lifestyle:
•get kids to help plant vegetables and fruits in the garden – there are many interesting varieties that are fun for kids
•set up recycling centers in your home with pictures on the containers for kids who can’t read yet
•involve children in the process of painting and repurposing furniture items
•give your children chores to help take care of agricultural animals on your property
•teach children to sew
•teach children to cook with fresh vegetables and fruits
•have family nights when you discuss the importance of the planet
•plant trees together in your backyard that produce fruit and flowers
•take children with you to thrift stores and teach them how to make choices about what is appropriate for use
•volunteer with your children – help them to see that the choices they are making can impact others in a good way
•let your children take part in the planning process of gardening or farming, give them a role and responsibilities
•read children’s stories about the earth and the environment
Involving your children in making changes to your home that promote sustainable living can help them to develop habits that will last a lifetime. Your children will be the future generation that will continue to care for the planet.
6. On the Menu with Anne
Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie
A few weeks ago I tried a new recipe (from the Vegetarian section of the Recipe File) for Mock Shepherd's Pie. It was delicious! My meat-loving mob devoured it and requested it again the next week. Since then I've made it four times and put it on the menu for this week too. It made six hearty serves. We use four serves and I have been freezing the two extra serves for quick dinners and it freezes, thaws and re-heats very well. The basic stew also makes great pie filling and goes down well on toast too. As a meatless meal it is a good, frugal, versatile recipe.
Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie
Ingredients:
1 tin Sanitarium Nutmeat, mashed
1 pkt cream of mushroom soup
1 large onion, diced
½ cup peas
½ cup corn kernels
1 large carrot, diced
1 cup water
1 tbsp gravy mix
1 tbsp tomato sauce
3 large potatoes, boiled or steamed until tender
½ cup grated cheese
Method:
Place first 9 ingredients in a large saucepan, bring to boil. Turn down to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender and the gravy has thickened. Mash potato. Place stew mixture in a greased pie or casserole dish. Top with mashed potato, sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake 20 minutes in a moderate oven until cheese is melted and golden brown.
This week we will be eating:
Friday: Lamb and vegetable soup with toasted crumpets
Saturday: MOO veggie burgers (patty, lettuce, tomato, onion, beetroot, cheese and sauce)
Sunday: Roast chicken, baked vegetables, peas, gravy
Monday: Fried rice, spring rolls
Tuesday: Pasta bake and salad
Wednesday: Cath's Mock Shepherds Pie, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots
Thursday: Mushroom quiche, wedges and salad
In the fruit bowl: apples, mandarins, kiwi fruit, bananas
In the cake tin: Banana and sultana loaf, chocolate muffins, raspberry coconut slice
There are over 1,300 other great money saving meal ideas in the Recipe File
7. The $300 a Month Food Challenge with Wendy
Welcome everyone to the food challenge.
For many years my family has always tried to be mindful of the things we have. We try not to waste anything and we most certainly appreciate what we do have. With our reduced family budget this year we have adopted the motto "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle". The Cheapskates word "MO " (make our own) fits right in there too.
Here are some of the things we've been doing lately that fits right in the three "R's" -
* We sell some of our chicken's eggs. The egg cartons get used many times over as our customers always hand them back.
* Food portion sizes have reduced slightly and I'm freezing leftover food from dinner.
* Reducing our water usage by saving clean water from the showers to water vegie seedlings and small plants. I also save the final rinse water from the washing machine and pour it back in to wash the next load. This almost halves laundry water usage and reduces the amount of laundry powder needed.
* Glass jars are recycled and used for homemade jam.
* Spray bottles of any shape and size are washed and reused for many things like Miracle Spray, disinfectant, bleach, MOO air freshener. It's much cheaper to decant products into spray bottles than to buy it from the supermarket.
* Bread bags are reused many times for homemade bread. then used as bin liners or to clean out the kitty litter.
* Plastic containers are used instead of cling wrap, foil and snap lock bags.
* Ingredients are measured / weighed to reduce wastage.
* We use old face washers as kitchen cloths. A clean one is put out each day and the used one is put in the washing machine. They can last for 2 - 3 years.
All these things help to reduce our food and water bill. It also reduces landfill.
How do you adopt the motto "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle"?
Have a great week and BE ENCOURAGED!!!!
The $300 a Month Food Challenge
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?24-Take-up-the-challenge-!!!!
The Post that Started it All
http://www.cheapskates.com.au/pages/default.cfm?page_id=44265
8.Cheapskates Buzz
This week's hot forum topics
Homebaked Wholemeal Bread
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?1839-Homebaked-wholemeal-bread
Which Name Brands will you not Compromise On?
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?1517-Which-Name-Brands-will-you-not-compromise-on
Panic is Setting In
http://www.cheapskatesclub.com.au/memberforum/showthread.php?2447-Panic-is-setting-in
Most popular blog posts this week
Please, Please, Please Don't Let Marketing Dumb You Down
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2012/06/please-please-please-dont-let-marketing.html
The Slush Fund
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2013/03/the-slush-fund.html
Impossible Lasagne Pie
http://www.debtfreecashedupandlaughing.com.au/2012/02/impossible-lasagne-pie.html
9. Member's Featured Blog
Platinum Cheapskates Club members have their very own Cheapskating blogs, and they are wonderful and inspirational and encouraging and even funny. This week's featured blog is written by Emmnwhite59.
Do I Really Need a New Laptop or Car? Do You?
Not that long ago in my Diploma of Sustainability class I was forced to endure a 20+minute video on STUFF. At first I ignored the video, after all I'm poor an I don't earn that much to go on shopping sprees so why does it matter? Weeks later I was thinking about the video. It was 3 years old but still very true to todays ways.
I was at University the other day and I noticed all the students there have brand new cars, some even 2012 BMWs, I looked at my car and felt a little put to shame, my car isn't that old (2007 model), yet I felt out-of-date. It got me wondering how many people out there are just keeping up with the Joneses and going into debt because of it? Not only are we racking up loans we know we shouldn't have, but we aren't helping the earth either (no i'm not a green house hippy, I still love my hair spray and body spray).
If we just kept most of the stuff we buy would we be happier knowing that not only did we save money but we still have the resources we needed before anyways? I put it to practice! I stopped buying stuff I KNEW I didn't require. I have enough jumpers, so I walked past that sale at the shops. I'm growing my own lettuce organically at home, so I walked past the Coles/Woolies lettuce. My car still runs and gets me from point A to B to C to D and more, so I ignored the car adds. I have less clutter and I'm not complaining about a credit card debt... Guess it sucks to own a brand new BMW now!
So take 20 minutes to watch this video, look past how quick she talks and how high on coffee she appears. Just really listen to the message behind it all. The link is below - and if you view it at the local library you save your own download for other stuff!
Login to read more Cheapskates Club member blogs
10. Last Week's Question
Last week's question was from Marg who wrote
"Can anyone suggest a foolproof way to eradicate weevils from the pantry (without poisoning humans of course). I have emptied the pantry thoroughly, cleaned it, washing down the shelving, bagging and sealing any offending or suspicious products. Even sultanas in well sealed canisters have become contaminated. From the desperado who now has very little in the pantry and no idea how they keep reappearing - it's either magic or my pantry is possessed! HELP!"
Ruth Dunne answered
I was advised many years ago to freeze flour etc. before I put it in the pantry. It kills any weevil eggs that may be there (quite common, apparently). I then store everything in airtight containers. Remove food source and the weevils should disappear. Wiping everything over with eucalyptus oil should help deter too.
Bonnie Carr answered
I have found the best way to get rid of weevils is to prevent them in the first place. For porridge, rice, flour, icing, bread crumbs and such items, simply place two or three bay leaves into each container. For some reason, these leaves prevent the weevil eggs from hatching. The eggs are almost microscopic so you can't see them at all but they are there. I have done this for over 30 years without any problems.
Michelle Webb answered
The problem is that there are eggs in the flour when you buy it, so having a sealed container doesn't stop them contaminating. The trick to fix this is to microwave the flour for 60 seconds when you buy it which kills the eggs and stops them hatching.
There are more answers to this question in the Tip Store.
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11. This Week's Question
Dee writes
"Hello - I am about to become the proud and first time owner of a dishwasher! I would love to know how fellow Cheapskaters keep costs under control in terms of products that are recommended and keeping it in tip top shape. Thanks in advance for the help."
Do you have the answer?
If you have a suggestion or idea for Dee let us know. We'll enter your answer into our Tip of the Week competition, with a one-year membership to the Cheapskates Club as the prize too.
Send your answer
12. Join the Cheapskates Club
For just 10 cents a day you can join the Cheapskates Club and get exclusive access to the Cheapskate Journal, the monthly e-journal that shows you how to cut the costs of everyday living and still have fun.
Joining the Cheapskates Club gives you 24/7 access to the Members Centre with 1000's of money saving tips and articles.
Click here to join the Cheapskates Club today!
http://www.cheapskates.com.au/members/join_form.cfm?item_id=2271
13. Gift Memberships
Your family and friends will thank you for a whole year when you give them a Platinum Cheapskates Club membership as a gift.
It's so simple: just select the number of gift memberships required, click the Buy Now button and complete the Gift Membership order form (you must use this form to order gift memberships) and we'll get in touch with you to confirm the gift subscriptions.
Click here to order a gift membership right now!
14. Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change my email address?
This one is easy. Members can update their email address or any other details by clicking on "Edit Profile" directly under their membership number after they have logged in to the Member's Centre. Subscribers to our free newsletter can use the Change Your Address form (under Customer Service in the menu) and fill it out. Once you've filled it in click the send button and we'll do the rest. Please remember to include your old email address so we can find it in the list as well as the new one.
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15. Contact Details
The Cheapskates Club -
Showing you how to live life
debt free, cashed up and laughing!
PO Box 5077 Studfield Vic 3152
www.cheapskates.com.au
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