Smart Savvy Mama Savings

Who would of thought that saving your family thousands could be fun. In an age of consumerism we easily get sucked into the world of materialism and our wants get mixed up with our needs. Don't get me wrong, I like a nice pair of shoes just like any other girl and would mind owning some Jimmy Choo's (one day). However, reality is that in hard times we should all be saving for a rainy day. So, I came up with 10 ideas that have already paid off and saved us hundreds.

1. Have a virtual garage sale! If you are planning for an expensive vacation or want to buy a big ticket item, don't charge it. Trade in something you already have and use that money for what you want. For example, sell things in your garage that you don't use anymore like furniture, a used car that sits in the drive way. We sold our expensive PFAFF sewing machine and bought a Canon Rebel TI2 camera for the exact same price and it felt awesome!
   
2. Become an Online Coupon Clipper: http://www.befrugal.com/ or http://coupons.smartsource.com This actually a lot of fun and has become a hobby of mine. There's a cool series called Extreme Couponing on TLC check it out!
   

http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/extreme-couponing

1. Swap - No, I don't mean go to the flea market or swap meet. If you didn't already know there are dozens of Swap groups developing everywhere. Moms swap items with other moms for items they need. There are also swap parties such as the in link below: http://www.peaceloveswap.com
2. Look on Craigslist.org to fill your home. We found a beautiful crib set in like new condition for only $200 compared to $600 in stores. If you look carefully you can find some great pieces for cheap. Just be careful not to go alone to anyone's home.
   
3. Buy barley used big ticket items such as cars. We made a mistake and buying a brand new honda fit and paid thousands to the new car smell. I later saw barely used Honda's for sale at 3,000 less. We now only buy barely used vehicles with only a few miles under 20,000.
4. Don't be afraid of hand me downs.
5. Make a budget sheet. If your online bank account doesn't have a budget plan option make one. Here's an example: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/blank-budget-sheet-TC030004775.aspx
   
6. Organize: organizing your home can show items that are easily found and keeps from buying duplicates. My favorite store is the container store. http://www.containerstore.com
   
7. Make a list: Yes, my name is big mama and I'm a list addict. I looooooooove list, why? They make it easier to avoid multi-buys or purchases that you don't need.
   
8. Stop with the Labels: I do admit that I do like nice things but I would feel guilty about buying a $500 Coach purse when I can get a nice purse at Target for $25. No label whore here, only Target junkie!
   

How we got our son to sleep in his own room.

Having a toddler sleeping in his parents room is not the most romantic setting for a couple. Our son Luke was never a great sleeper, as a baby he woke up all the time, then started having night terrors at 13 months. For lack of sleep, space, and sanity we decided to have Luke start sleeping in his own room, but how? We had already tried night lights, soothing music, rocking, you name it. Then I had an idea and of course it helped to research things that worked for others on the web. Just before he turned 2 years we found what worked, like a charm. Keep in mind being animated when introducing new things to kids is very helpful.

What worked:

• We bought a bunkbed (with safety features) The one in the picture is a good choice. Something he can grow into.
  
• Constellation Twilight Turtle: lights up the room with stars (Babie)s R Us
  
• Warm milk before bed

We set up his room first before he saw it. When we opened the door to show him his new room his face lite up and had the biggest smile we had every seen. Since that glorious day he has not once slept in our room. Actually he refuses to sleep anywhere but his big boy bed and his parents are very happy. Win, win.

Why is my son tip toe walking?

At 18 months of age my son started walking on his toes. It began gradually but now at 2 1/2 years of age he continues to walk on his toes all the time. When our pediatrician noticed this at the last visit, he referred us to an orthopedic specialist. I didn't think it was a big deal but the doctor said is could turn into a concern. We just the orthopedic doctor last week so Luke can get checked out. Dr. P told us that his son too was a toe walker and usually grow out of it but 5 years old. However, if this is indeed a sensory issue and he didn't grow out of it, there are options.

• First, a cast to help child adjust to walking on heels
• Second, seek physical therapy
• Third, if all fails surgery to the tendon.

Has anyone had this experience? If so, what was the outcome?