The $4-1 hour Make-over I cannot believe!

 

Every time I pull into my driveway, I would consider knocking down my lamp post.  I would literally stare it down like it was taunting me saying “ha ha, you don’t have time…you are going to have to deal with my atrocious appearance forever!”  I drive around  my neighborhood and I see these ebony black lamp posts with a flawless sheen.  It can add such a sophisticated glamour to your front yard, but if it is not well maintained, it can turn into a prop for a scene in a horror film.  You know, the broken down home that houses ghosts.  O.k. maybe I am being dramatic, but my lamp post had morphed into this strange grayish pole with a rusted gold top and bugs and dirt had built their dream home within the glass casing.  It’s a miracle that light was even able to illuminate from that thing.

One random day when I went to Wal-mart to buy supplies for another project, I grabbed a can of spray paint.  When I finally got home, I barely had any time to start my other project and I had just drove past that eye sore yet again.  I had only a few minutes to decide what to do with the little time I had left so I chose, to revamp the lamp.  Ha Ha.

First I disassembled the lantern and washed the glass.  I grabbed whatever I could find to protect the surrounding areas and commenced to spraying.  I am not kidding, I had only a few minutes before I had to get dressed for work so I sped through this like I was in a race.  It took me less than 1 hour and yes, there were a few flaws which I plan to fix later, but I do know that I now pull into my driveway with a huge smile.  I cannot believe how quick and cheap was this project.

 

How I kicked My Soda Addiction

At the age of 16 in preparation for the prom, I decided to give up soda (a.k.a pop) and drink only water.  I was young,committed, and determined so I was very successful in my task and, in the process,I lost weight which had my dress showing a little side boob, but that is another story.  I ended up sticking with it post prom and never drank soda again until my lovely husband’s obsession with Diet Coke creeped it’s way first into my refrigerator, then into my taste buds.

My knowledge of the unhealthy aspects of this delicious drink could not compete with the incessant cravings.  In the back of my head, I was always yelling “stop stop!!” so I would have fluctuating moments of stopping for some time and then starting up again. Well fast forward to present day and I have finally found something to quench my thirst (for soda) without making me feel I am sacrificing my craving and, not to mention, keeping extra money in my pocket.  My cure, sparkling water!  Sorry, no miracle elixir here if that is what you were expecting.  I realized part of the draw to soda is that deliciously crisp bite I get from the carbonated beverage. With the carbonated water, I still can get that bite without the guilt.  Now, I am not referring to the artificially sweetened waters, just plain carbonated water with the natural flavoring (where it is more of a scent than a flavor).  I don’t have a preference, I just choose whichever brand is the cheapest that day I go into the store.  They are not all created equal so you will have to find which brand best tickles your fancy.  So there you have it, instead of soda, grab yourself an nice cold bubbly glass of water.

A Conventional Use for an Unconventional Item

In trying to be a Frugalista, I have learned a few things and one of them is company’s always try to gouge you when it comes to specialty items.  I actually first noticed this during my wedding planning.  If they think you are going to use  their venue for a wedding versus a random party, they will hike up the price like nobody’s business.  If there is a particular item used for a specific task (e.g. a broom for sweeping), they will drive up the price knowing you have to use it.   Well I have a little secret, you don’t have to use what they tell you to use.  You can tell that venue you are having a little party instead of a wedding  and you can find a cool, bargain item and repurpose it.

This is exactly what my mother in-law did in purchasing this hands free disposal container from Goodwill.  I am not sure if that was her goal, but it certiainly impressed the hell out of me.

We use this container as a recycling bin and based on the imprint, I am pretty sure it was some sort of laboratory container.  It’s kind of modern-ecclectic meets utility?  It’s super cool, convenient and hands free.

The 5 things I’ve Learned From Moving In With The In-Laws…..So Far

My husband and I decided to sell our home and temporarily move our family in with his parents.   Being a fairly level headed individual, I knew there would be a multitude of sacrifices especially with a 7 month old and 3 year old in tow.  But I have to admit there were several aspects that I just didn’t comprehend until I was already in motion which brings me to the five things that I have learned:

1.  Downsizing is a must

O.k., go into your closet and take out a few pairs of clothing that you know you should throw out or donate.  Now do that about 10 more times and then  you might just have an idea of amount of clothing you should take with you.  Don’t worry, you don’t have to give it all away, some of that can go into storage for when you obtain  you own dream walk-in closet, but not even half can go with you.   Seriously!

2.  Prepare to have to visit your storage facility a few times

A friend warned me of this one, but of course I didn’t listen.  This goes along with item one.  Since you can’t bring all of your clothes and other things you may need at some point,  be sure to pack them in the front of your storage facility so you don’t find yourself clawing through boxes for hours desperately looking for the warm weather clothing you packed away.

3.  Fold Like A Salesperson

Yes, more on clothes, because I had some major delusions on what I was going to be able to fit into our new surroundings.  If you don’t have as much space to hang items, learn how to fold in a manner that will maximize use of space.  A perfect example is the perfectly folded sweaters on those tables in a clothing store.

3.  Get used to creative storage

I preemptively planned for this one.  We sold nearly all of our furniture along with our house and I mean come on, we could not bring any dressers with us anyway so where would all of our stuff go.  For my sons, I brought the toy storage rack and now, instead of holding toys, it has cute little t-shirts, shorts, and undies.  The night stands in our room have become a cabinet and a dress all in one.  There is no separation of items either.  The drawer that holds my notebook for any late night ideas I want to jot down also holds my jewelry and nail polish.

4.  Learn the grocery clerks name.

I go to the grocery store so often now, they started giving me free stuff (bonus!).  I haven’t learned their names yet, but I am sure that is next.  Since we share a fridge,  bulk shopping is a thing of the past.  The bonus is that if you forget something, it’s not as big of a deal since you know you’ll be back in a day or two.

5.  Be thankful for all of the inconveniences

Though I catch myself rolling my eyes every once in a while for the inconveniences I have to experience not having my own home, I have to remind myself how fortunate we are to have been given the opportunity to sell our own and not live on the street.

 

 

 

The Perfect Outing For The Interior Designer, Frugal Spender, Environmentally Conscious, Germaphobe Parent In All Of Us

O.k. maybe that just describes me, but I must share this with the two people that may not have discovered it.  My husband was actually the person who got me started, because if anyone likes a deal, it’s him.  On occasional weekend mornings we like to, as a family of three (soon to be four), have breakfast at Ikea.  They have a $0.99 deal and other extremely low cost options on the breakfast menu.  It’s not Lu Lu’s, Marmalade, or your other local fancy breakfast joint but for the price, my clean plate at the end says enough.  The bonus is while you are eating, there is a section where parents can sit at a bar type table and watch your child play in an adjacent play area.  No “are you done yet” fits over here.  For the “Green” in all of us, the only disposables are the straws and there are recycling bins lined throughout.  If you wash your hands before you eat, they have this cool ring to exit the bathroom door so you can open it with you arm and not your hand (I thought that was especially cool and progressive).  If you have to breastfeed or prep a really small child before partaking in the fun, they have strategically set up a room furnished by the masterminds themselves to get nice and comfy while you handle your parental duties.  And that is just the start of your visit.

 

The children’s furniture/toy section has floor samples to distract the kids while you plan your next Ikea hack for their room.  Depending on the kindness of your spouse, you can continue down the guided path in peace while they watch your little one destroy Ikea equipment or you can just take them along the herds with you where they are sure to get into some mischief.  On our last trip we were searching for a twin bed for our toddler and let him join in on the testing.  He ended up claiming every floor display for himself almost moved into one of the children’s rooms. I have always enjoyed Ikea.  I love being herded along and getting ideas from the floor displays and now with Ikea hackers’ blogs I have a new mission when I go.  Yet, seeing how the store caters to families and all my little quirks, I have a new found respect, a new appreciation, and a new love for this place.  Oh and yes, the $1 frozen yogurt to reward yourself  and your little ones for making it to the finish line does not hurt.

Black Friday: Shopping With My New Secret Weapon

During the holiday shopping season, we already get our shopping lists out for family members and friends and forget about ourselves.  On the heels of my last post, Wardrobe Revamp, I started thinking about how I should shop for myself when I have a limited budget.  When I was organizing my clothes into different outfits and looking at what was in style this season, I would tell myself “oh I need this and I just need one of those” to add to my wardrobe.  I also don’t want to buy things that I don’t wear or later regret purchasing.  Then it came to me, a shopping list.  How silly did I feel when I realized it was so simple.  Something we do all the time when we go grocery shopping or to Target for house items.  Why not apply that to clothing shopping for myself.  With Black Friday deals having you wanting to spend every dime to your name, one has to have a focus (and a budget).   Now I am prepared with my shopping list armor.  No gravitating to all the pretty signs with low numbers hysterically picking out whatever has the lowest price looks kind of cute.  No more trying on random items and trying to figure out which one I should pick.  I am totally focused.  I now know I need some blazers, a pair of black pleather (or faux leather) pants, and a pair of bright colored pants.  Ooh and some red pumps. These items will enhance what I already have in my wardrobe and even create new outfits without actually having to buy a whole new outfit.  I cannot wait until tomorrow.  Happy Shopping!!!

Free Getaway Right Under My Nose

Initially the cabin-like home in Lake Arrowhead was where my in-laws lived, where I was forced to be on my best behavior for a full weekend which for me is a lot of work.  Then, during the winter months, it was a place to sleep and hang out with friends when we go snowboarding.  Over the years it had become a place for my husband and I to get away from the city (of Los Angeles).  Now, after marriage, having a son, and 9 years of visiting, it has become so much more.  If I am outside in the backyard I can take a breath of fresh air, something rare when one lives so close to a metropolitan area.  I just stare at the gorgeous trees in awe or at the birds that come to rest in the bird houses or to feed on the bird feeders scattered around the backyard or even to bathe in the beautiful bird bath located centrally in the back yard.  I even had the pleasure of taking in the aforementioned scenery while drinking a relaxing glass of white wine one day since my two year old was taking a walk with oma and opa (German for grandma and grandpa).  It was a very surreal moment which I probably why I remember it so well (parent know what I am talking about).  The inside of the house, for me, has become a museum of sorts.  My mother-in law has a masterful eye for finding jewels in thrift stores.  When you look at some of her finds, you immediately want her to go with her on one of those treasure hunts.  The house itself has the most unique features mostly added by the original owner some time ago (I apologize for not having added any history to this piece).  Combine that with my mother-in law’s style (I would say southern meets country) and years and years and years of shopping and you will find yourself just touring the house finding something new and interesting in every corner.

As soon as we arrive to their home, my son runs amuck.  First to find “puppy”, then to play with the new vintage toys oma bought (we have now realize she has a problem containing herself from buying toys for him).  Then, especially if it is a holiday season, I peruse all of the decorations to which there is no limit.  Since we have a mischievous toddler, our sleeping quarters have been relocated to the downstairs master bedroom.  I have to admit, I love it.  It’s very spacious and the master bedroom is, well, masterful.  A white bedspread on a wooden frame with two pictures of what I, knowing nothing about materials or sewing, would call quilt cutouts in matching frames greets you as you walk through the sliding wooden door.  Nestled in the corner is an arm chair with a white cover complete with a matching footrest.  In the master bath, there is an over-sized pedestal tub with a unique gold faucet.  The sink is accented by a gorgeous gold framed mirror that can only be out shined by the wall sculpture that hangs above.  But just when you think there are no more surprises, you see the shower.  It is a quirky little piece that looks like a maze.  It’s funny; you walk a few steps forward in this tile hallway and then turn left to get to the actual shower heads. I love it.  Between the towels laid out ready for us in the bathroom and the mood of the master bedroom, one can only feel like they are at a Bed and Breakfast.

I always feel so fortunate to have such wonderful in-laws who also happen to have to a wonderful home where we are always welcome to visit and the only cost is time with their grandson.  We always have sit down meals and play family games, it’s totally cliché and I love it!

Wardrobe Revamp

About a week ago I went into my closet and stood there silently cursing out my wardrobe.  I hated it.  I felt like all of the clothes were outdated, limited, and just plain…well crappy.  First thought, go shopping and replace the whole the thing.  The second thought, was “wake up, wake up, you’re not rich”.  What is a girl to do?  Well in true V.Q. (my mother’s initials) fashion I snapped myself out of the pity party that was going on in my head, accepted my financial situation, realized that I had nothing to complain about, and came up with an idea.   What started out as another one of my hair brain schemes turned into something pretty awesome.  I decided to use what I had and make something out of it.  O.k. that last one was real V.Q.  I took every item of clothing out of my closest and separated them into several piles.

Pile #1 was clothes that I like just as they are.  As you can imagine that was the smallest pile ever.  Pile #2 was clothes that I like and just can’t figure out how to wear and also clothes that I wanted to give one more chance.  I even had clothes in that pile that I had never worn because I didn’t know how (I know sounds silly).  Pile #3 was  clothes to donate and finally pile #4 was function change clothes.  Right out of the gate pile #4 gave immediate gratification.  Months or maybe even years ago, I fooled myself into thinking I was going to pull off that “I am doing super casual but in style” look.  You know the one that celebrities wear when they are trying to go incognito.  Like I look like a bum….or do I.   Well, on me it was more like a half-ass attempt to get dressed.  I always felt homely when I paired these colorful or patterned t-shirts with jeans.  Those shirts went into pile #4 which turned them into work out shirts or lounge around the house shirts.  The result, I  actually feel cute lying around the house or working out.   A far cry from my usual please-no-one-come-to-the-door-or-you-may-be-frightened look.  This then allowed me  to give away my cotton t-shirts, collected from various events over the years that are now too small.

Pile #2, the largest, was heavy duty work.  I decided to go online and look up Fall/Winter 2012 fashion trends to help me figure out how to wear this stuff so I can start smiling when I walk into my closet.  It took a lot longer than I thought , but it was so fun.  O.k., I will come clean, there were moments where I was like “what did I get myself into” but that may mostly be due to the fact that I am a mother of a wild 2 year old boy.  Needless to say, I came out with some awesome new clothes and I really surprised myself.  I actually tried on different pieces and paired them in ways I never would have thought of before being inspired by this year’s fashions.  I jotted the styling on a sticky note and attached it to the hanger.  I am not exaggerating when I say I really feel like I have a whole new wardrobe.  I was also humbled a.k.a felt ungrateful when I realized how much clothing I actually had.

Dress I would just throw on during warmer weather months. Now something I can wear in the fall (a look I found online).

I have had this blazer for over 3 years and rarely wear it. Bought the blouse months ago and never wore it because I ordered it online and it was too big.

Adding a belt and jeans to this dress that I was getting bored of turned it in to something that makes me feel stylish

This one, to me, is a gem. I had to show the before and after and, although embarrassing, I felt I actually had to take the picture wearing it. It was an impulse buy from a sale rack and turns out, not really fitting for a post baby, post breastfeeding body. If you get my drift. Well I was just thinking convert to a scarf when I realized I could just tuck it in at the elastic. I paired it with my black blazer that I rarely wear and some black jeans and black pumps. Bam, a new outfit!

A few extra tips and things learned:

I thought of this when I was almost done for the day, but you could take a picture of yourself in the outfit instead of the sticky notes and keep an electronic catalog.

You can share this with a friend and mix and match using each other’s clothing.  Although, that might be a disaster when you start seeing your reject clothing in a new light.

One more benefit that this whole ordeal had besides me now feeling like I have an awesome wardrobe after having shopped right in my very own home, was efficiency.  Now, if I am rushing to get dressed, I just pick a top and right there on the tag will tell me how to wear it.  No more grabbing something that looks drab when I’m in a hurry!

The Last Great Affordable Outing In Tinsel Town

I was with my husband for our last concert at the Hollywood Bowl for this season and as I sat back enjoying myself listening to the scores written and conducted by the great John Williams, I stopped to appreciate the evening for what it really was and just had to share my thoughts.  It is a slight departure from my party planning, interior design, and baking, but it is right on par with my budget.

For those who have never experienced “The Bowl” or live outside of southern California, it is an outdoor arena carved into the side of a mountain in the Hollywood hills.  It’s a place where the entertainment is provided by the LA Phil and the ambiance is provided by nature.  I often sit there in disbelief as I take a sip of wine and just stare at the surrounding hills.  I get to enjoy this venue and it’s talented performers with barely a blip on my financial radar.  Patrons are actually able to bring in their own food and drink (alcohol is almost required) and you can get tickets as cheap as $1 (on some nights).  As much as I want to make the trip super cheap, I often feel fancy  when I am preparing food for The Bowl and opt for a doozie of a meal that I cook myself of course.  Maybe it’s because we are usually pairing it with wine or maybe it is the fact that us Cheap Seaters get to hob knob with the wealthy folks that have box seats that they purchased for a couple hundred bucks.  Yet, in a crunch, we will not hesitate to grab a $5 subway footlong, a bottle of 2 buck (that’s slang for Charles Shaw wine at Trader Joe’s for $1.99) and hurry on our way. We park our car on the free lot and pay our $5 per person for the shuttle and get curb side service at the bowl and by service I mean the buses drop us off right in front.

As you enter or walk through the venue, there is a sense of community.  Despite the glasses of wine that are steadily flowing, people behave as if they are visiting a well respected family member’s home.  I am always first in awe of the structure and its location and then by the amount of people peacefully walking along side me or having a picnic on the ground.  This may seem so cliche, but it really feels magical.  If you arrive early enough  it is light out and you can really take in the nature surrounding the bowl while you eat at a picnic table or at your seat and as the evening progresses the hills disappear and the glow from the stage is your only light (everyone knows LA smog prevents the stars from sparkling overhead).  I honestly feel like the cheap seats have a great advantage over the up close and personal box seats, you really get to appreciate your environment while you’re being entertained.  There is no other place to my knowledge in the area where you don’t have to be wealthy to experience sophisticated entertainment often associated with the lifestyles of the rich and famous.  It adds more culture to ones life without breaking the bank.  It is truly an experience.