Daily Preparedness

Dealing with a chronic or rare disease (or merely being mortal) often leads one into the forest of “All Natural Supplements, Ointments, Cure-Alls and Wonder Drugs.” Navigating between the hype, the ridiculous and the dangerous can be an exhausting business. Products that are harmless but expensive are not safe to our wallets. Products that are potentially harmful to us are often disguised as ‘all natural supplements’ that could interact with prescribed medications or contain serious (though natural) products. How do we protect ourselves and our wallets while remaining open to the possibility of improving our condition?

First, a few relevant bits of wisdom to keep in mind:

• Most manufactured medications are based on ‘natural’ ingredients. For instance, aspirin is merely a chemically reproduced form of white willow bark. White willow bark contains most of the properties of aspirin and must be treated as such. For instance, it is a great anti-inflammatory and pain reliever, but it also thins the blood and interacts with a number of medications & conditions.
• Natural remedies MUST be treated with extreme respect and researched thoroughly via independent resources. Many ‘natural’ substances are wonderful to use in the place of prescription medications, BUT one must be certain of the research, the potential risks and the cost implications.
• The supplement and vitamin market is essentially unregulated, untested and unsupervised. Valid scientific research has shown a wide variation in ingredient strength, quantity of active ingredient and verification of ‘research.’
• The supplement and natural remedy business generates billions and billions of dollars per year. It is a business, unfortunately, full of charlatans, snake oil salesmen and abuse. Buyer beware should be the basis of all decisions you make when entering this world.
• Learn and understand what true peer reviewed scientific literature is. Some of the most infamous charlatans publish their own ‘vanity’ pieces, mostly in online publications. Their review process is highly flawed and their ‘research’ is aimed at selling their product.
• There is little valid peer reviewed research into the interactions between ‘natural’ remedies and prescribed medication. ALWAYS ask your pharmacist if they are aware of any interactions between what you are currently taking and what you think you might want to take. A responsible pharmacist can run a quick search and tell you if there is solid research. They may also be able to tell you which manufactured medication correlates with the ’supplement’.
• ALL ‘remedies’ that we swallow, apply, inject or soak in should be carefully considered. Our bodies are sacred and it is our job to protect them as much as possible.
• A physician recommending a product does not necessarily mean that it is safe, effective OR cost appropriate. Be wary of a physician that is constantly jumping on the latest medical fad bandwagon!

Now that we have the ground work laid, how do we quickly and effectively research the latest ‘wonder cure all’? Having done this a few dozen times over the last decade (and not being a medical professional), I will use my latest product research to outline the steps you might want to consider.

Fellow individuals with a rare genetic disorder, Dercum’s Disease, recommended a topical pain relief ointment known as DRL 100. At $19.95 (plus S& H), it is rather dangerous to the wallet, but maybe worth it if it relieved the constant pain of Dercum’s. The steps I followed to research this possible ‘wonder drug’ apply to any supplement, vitamin, ointment, salve, injection or treatment.

1. Learn to read the label! The most important item is ‘active ingredients.’ These are the ingredients that are in substantial enough quantities to do something for you. In the case of DRL 100, the only active ingredient is menthol. The label states it contains ‘hyaluronan,’ a supposed miraculous pain reliever. The inactive ingredients list hyaluronic acid, but being listed where it is indicates that legally it contains so little that it is useless–essentially enough to be able to list it, but not enough to do anything.
2. Learn what the active ingredient actually does. Menthol (Methyl Salicylate), the active ingredient in DRL 100, is an age-old local pain reliever. Menthol does not actually numb the area, but rather floods the brain with so much incoming data that the brain essentially ‘forgets’ the pain in the area. Muscles relax, the skin feels cool and the pain is ‘gone.’ It works and is essentially harmless UNLESS you have certain underlying conditions or medications. For instance, menthol creams interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of adverse side effects (as in internal bleeding, hemorrhaging from a simple cut, having a stroke). It should not be applied to broken skin or those with allergies to certain foods or ointments. Pregnancy is also listed as a possible prohibitive condition. Menthol is cheap, readily available in a variety of preparations and well known. It is essentially ’safe,’ but the price of DRL 100 is exorbitant. Similar products are available for less than $5 for 2 ounces.
3. Run it past the pharmacist. Give them a list of the active ingredients and ask if it interacts with anything you are taking. When I did this, the pharmacist recommended multiple over-the-counter preparations that would do exactly the same thing at a fraction of the cost. It is even possible to order menthol and add peppermint if you prefer the smell of peppermint. (Peppermint is a relaxing smell to the human brain). For the price of 2 ounces of DRL 100, you could make a quart or more of stronger menthol cream.
4. Research the company. Though this step wasn’t necessary for the DRL 100, I did it out of curiosity because the product is being hyped to a group of folks who already have enough problems! I simply googled the manufacturer, Dermal Research Laboratories. I skipped all of the sales pitch sites and found them listed on ‘corporationwiki,’ which provided a link to Dun & Bradstreet, a highly respected collective of corporate information.
5. From the above, I found the names of the two principles of the company as well as their business address, which was limited to a Post Office Box (always a bit questionable). I also located their company phone number. A sidebar listed a street address, which confirmed what I found below.
6. I used the company phone number to perform a reverse phone number search, which revealed that it was co-listed as the ‘business’ phone for Dermal Research Laboratories and a home number for one of the principles. The address tied to that phone number was the home address of one of the company principles.
7. In order to double check that the address was a home, I utilized google maps and mapquest. Their satellite imaging confirmed that the ‘business’ location for Dermal Research Laboratories is a very nice home in a very nice residential area. No serious laboratory here. No research facility. No large scale shipping facility. Just a nice suburban neighborhood (as in VERY nice). I am not against home based businesses; I think they are wonderful. BUT, they are not serious scientific research laboratories producing serious life-altering products. Supposed medical miracles produced in someone’s home are most likely paying for that very nice home in a very nice neighborhood.

Navigating the forest of alternative medicine can be frustrating, confusing and potentially dangerous. Before investing in the newest wonder drug, supplement, treatment or diet, do a bit of research on your own. Thirty minutes of your time may not only save you money, suffering and frustration—it may even save your life…..and that is provident living at its best!

After quite an absence to ’savor’ 10 weeks of IV antibiotics and then the crunch of Christmas, it is time once again to get organized! There is no better time than the beginning of a new year to re-evaluate, re-organize and re-do those areas of our lives that could use a bit of attention.

One of the rooms that is often most lacking in usable storage is the bathroom. We need to store necessities and frivolities while protecting them from the range of temperature and humidity that are common in bathrooms. It is also a room that needs to be cleaned frequently and well, which means that the little stuff needs to be put away! A bathroom that is orderly is a bathroom that is easier to clean.

AS YOU ORGANIZE, BE CERTAIN THAT YOU HAVE CHILDPROOFED YOUR BATHROOM!!! THE CLEANERS, MEDICATIONS, RAZORS, COSMETICS, PERFUMES & ASSORTED SMALL ITEMS OFTEN FOUND IN A BATHROOM ARE ALL POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS ITEMS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN OR PETS. IF ANYONE IN YOUR HOME IS EVEN SLIGHTLY MOBILITY IMPAIRED, HAVE GRAB BARS INSTALLED NEAR TUB.

Let’s first look at the necessities. Toilet paper needs to be accessible and readily restocked. A few ideas to consider: decorative baskets, bins in a cabinet (small inexpensive trash cans work well under sinks to hold ’stuff’), over the toilet cabinets, holders designed to sit on the floor and holders designed to hang from the tank are a few options. Extra toilet paper should ideally be stored nearby. Think about storing extra in an under-the-bed box, on the top shelf of a closet, on the floor of your linen closet or even in decorative hat boxes.

Sanitary supplies can become a jumbled up nightmare without some organization. Again, small, thin and inexpensive trash cans are great for sliding in cabinets. They will protect your products while organizing them. Their slender size allows several to stand side-by-side in a typical under the sink cabinet. If you store extra supplies, store them elsewhere but still accessible. The suggestions for toilet paper can apply to this category.

Have holders in your tub or shower for shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, etc. Holders can be found that hang from the shower head, the shower curtain rod, the wall or with tension rods. Whatever you choose, dispose of empty containers quickly and replace items as they are used.

If you have trouble keeping up with clean towels, install an extra towel bar. Doubling your in-the-bathroom storage capability will save those hysterical calls of “I need a towel!” Have a hamper to hold soiled towels and teach your family to use it.

Medications that will be stored for long periods of time should be stored outside of the bathroom. The heat and humidity of the bathroom will reduce the shelf life of most medications. Keep your current medications well labeled and safely stored. If you take more than one medication at the beginning or end of a day, invest in a plastic pill case that you can fill for weeks at a time.  Make it a point to regularly dispose of medications you no longer need. Store your current medications either in a medicine cabinet or a set of drawers (only if you do not have small children in your home). If you have trouble reading the small print on the medication label, write the medication name on the top of the lid or across the label with a permanent marker.

Emily T. suggested storing first aid supplies in a cabinet made up of small drawers, typically used for small hardware parts. She has the drawers clearly labeled as to their contents. In an emergency, she can quickly locate what she needs. Inventorying her supplies is easy.

Small drawers of all sorts are great ways to organize any number of items commonly found in a bathroom. We have more counter space than drawer space. We extended our storage capability by purchasing a small shelf ‘tower’ that sits on the counter. The tower holds several sets of small drawers that hold commonly worn jewelry, deodorant, dental floss and host of other items.  Each drawer has a ‘theme’ of the type of item it holds. One shelf has small trays on it to manage bottles of ’stuff’. Another has a set of very small drawers that hold cotton swabs, make-up sponges & other very small items.

If you have larger drawers, inexpensive plastic silverware trays will help organize items within the drawer. Cosmetics, razors, brushes, combs, etc, etc, etc. can be grouped together in one drawer and then kept manageable by the dividers. There are a variety of drawer organizing systems on the market, widely available at discount stores, hardware stores and online.

Install hooks on back of doors & walls to hold bathrobes, towels, etc.

Be sure to have a toilet bowl brush for every bathroom, as well as a supply of necessary cleaners.

A small, lined trash can is a necessity in every well organized bathroom. Line it with shopping bags or small trash bags to make clean up easier. Store extra bags in the bottom of the trash can.

Under sink cabinets can become orderly in minutes by utilizing small, thin trashcans, wire racks, pull out shelving, small drawer sets and stair-step type shelving. Add hooks to the inside of the cabinet doors to hang small items.

A divided laundry hamper with sections for each type of laundry will speed sorting and help keep dirty clothes off the floor.

Organizing your bathroom should take only a few hours. As you organize, check for expiration dates, products you no longer use, empty containers and duplicates. Make note of everything you need to store and then find the perfect solution for your organized bathroom!

It is the time of year when the call of new yellow pencils, notebooks, pens, erasers and a long laundry list of supplies is haunting your mind as you prepare for the return of the school year. Nearly everyone returning to school will include in their shopping list a backpack. For most students, the foremost criteria for choosing a backpack is how attractive, ‘in’ or ‘cool’ the backpack looks. But, it is becomingly increasingly common for students (and not just students) of all ages to incur a variety of injuries, pain and damage due to improperly designed, fitted, loaded and carried backpacks. How do you choose and use a backpack so that it is a help not a hindrance? And what added items should you include to promote a safe school year?

First, let’s go shopping!

• Don’t fail to look at sporting goods and outdoor outfitters (such as LL Bean) for high quality, durable and well made backpacks. A few extra dollars now and a bit of care along the way may prove your best investment.
• If you are carrying a laptop or netbook, be certain that the backpack has, or will hold, a protective sleeve for your electronics.
• Choose a backpack with wide, padded and adjustable straps. Be certain that the wearer can adjust the pack so that the majority of the weight is carried along the back of the shoulder line.

• If the pack is going to weigh more than a few pounds (less than 7% of the wearer’s weight), choose a backpack with a waist belt which will help equalize the pressure on the spine, shoulders and neck.
• Purchase or add reflective tape so that the wearer is more easily seen in the dark.
• Look for a backpack with easy to reach pockets, especially for small items that the wearer may want to access without taking off the backpack.
• An ergonomically designed backpack will conform the proper alignment of the spine.

Now that you have purchased a great, back-saving backpack, let’s pack it up!

• Do not fill the backpack to more than 15% of the wearer’s body weight.
• Keep identifying information inside the backpack. If the design is a common one and you want to easily identify your backpack, personalize it with a charm, patch or other identifier that does not include your name or other personal information.
• Distribute items so that the weight is evenly distributed. Falls occur frequently when backpack wearers are ‘out of balance’ due to shifting or unevenly distributed loads
• Be certain to include an ID card in the backpack. Include name, emergency contact info, important health information, etc. Place this card INSIDE the backpack where it is not easily seen.
• Pack sharp objects, even sharpened pencils, where they will not weaken the fabric or seams.
• Periodically clean out the backpack and be certain you are not carrying items you do not need.
• For YOUNG CHILDREN, you might want to have a specially marked pocket for papers you need to read, sign, etc.
• Older students, if allowed, might carry a small power bar, granola bar or other ‘emergency food’, water & a tiny flashlight. College students and commuters may want to carry water, a bit of money in small bills, a small flashlight and necessary medications.

You are packed up and ready to go…time to lift and carry that backpack properly!

• Learn to pick up your backpack as you would any heavy object. Bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back.
• Do not ’sling’ your backpack onto your back. It is not good for you and you may hit someone behind or beside you!
• Carefully put on one shoulder strap on at a time. Be certain the straps are adjusted so that the majority of the weight is on your upper back—just below the shoulder line. It may look cool to have your backpack slung low on your back, but you are causing harm to yourself!
• If you have to stoop over with the weight of the backpack in order to carry it, that backpack is TOO heavy!
• NEVER NEVER carry your backpack on one shoulder. Doing so not only causes your spine to be at an unnatural angle, you may unevenly develop muscles in your shoulders and chest. This uneven distribution of muscle mass can become unsightly AND pull other parts of your body out of whack.
• Carrying your backpack on your front is not better for your back than carrying it on the back. Either way, the backpack needs to be aligned, packed and carried appropriately.
• Fasten the waist buckle, especially if the backpack is 15% of your body weight! Let your entire torso share in carrying the load.
• While carrying your backpack, walk with good posture! Stand up straight with your shoulders back.
• If someone should grab your backpack, immediately ask them to stop. Injuries occur when friends or others jokingly add their own weight to that of your backpack.
• If at all possible, remove the backpack near a surface about table level. With your back to the table, remove one shoulder strap at a time and lower the backpack down your back to the table.
• When you get home, keep your backpack off of kitchen counters or other surfaces where food is prepared or served.

The essence of provident living is to always live today while preparing for whatever tomorrow brings. Preventing, rather than treating, injuries is the best way to be prepared everyday!

Comment from a physician: The really sad part is the failure rate for back surgeries. I’ve seen a lot of patients with multiple surgeries, no relief from the pain, and even some who got worse after the surgery. There’s even a specific diagnostic code for ‘failed back surgery’ cause it’s that common. Good advice to review!

Tim

Even if you never aspire to create great fashion, knowing about the differences in fabrics, how to care for them, mend them and recognize quality will allow you to stretch your clothing and home decor dollars.  Having on hand a few basic sewing supplies may allow you to significantly lengthen the lifespan of your favorite outfit or produce an entirely new one! Regardless of whether you ever intend to sew a runway masterpiece or not, it is most provident to acquire a basic set of skills and supplies

First, the skills:

1. How to identify and care for fabrics. When shopping in a retail store, can you recognize the difference in quality between one fabric and another? Do you read care labels and follow them? Do you understand the wearability and expected lifespan of a thin polyester versus silk? What about the safety factors of wool versus fleece? (Did you know that wool self-extinguishes when removed from a fire source or that fleece is not only highly flammable, but spews bits of molten fiber as it burns?) Which fabrics will fade or wear out quickly in the sun? Which fibers are best for insulating?

2. How to make simple repairs to clothing and household items. Can you sew on a button? What about a snap? Repair a hem? Re-enforce an area that is showing wear? Stitch a seam before an item is ruined? Know which iron-on products you can use to make simple repairs? How to re-enforce the buttons on a new garment?

3. How to sew a straight seam on a sewing machine. You do not need an ultra-expensive computerized embroidery machine. But, you should be able to thread a sewing machine and at least sew a straight seam.

The supplies: (For all items, watch for sales. Sign up for the JoAnn Fabrics mailers or email notices. Also check Freecycle, thrift shops and other venues for free or cheap items!)

1. Hand sewing needles. Store a variety of betweens, sharps, quilting and curved needles. In general, the short thin needles are the easiest to use with most fabrics. You should store thin and thick curved needles, as the thin ones can stitch up a cut human while the thick ones can repair leather and other thick fibers.

2. Needle threader. The sturdiest needle threader I have seen is made by Fons and Porter. Having a needle threader is a a true aid to anyone attempting to sew by hand!

3. Scissors. Set aside a pair of scissors that will only be used on fabric. Mark the scissor handle as ‘fabric only’ and sternly enforce the rule. Fiskars and Gingher are both good beginner brands. A medium length scissor is good for most applications.

4. Measuring tape. Purchase a sturdy, coated one intended for sewing. Measuring tapes will stretch over time.

5. Ruler. Store at least one 12″ ruler, A transparent one is the easiest to use while sewing.

6. Fasteners. A supply of snaps, hook & eyes, buttons, velcro and a few all-purpose zippers. If you are going to throw away a piece of clothing away, cut off and save the buttons first!

7. Sewing machine. A good, basic machine is all most folks will need. Some of the older pre-computer-days machines are sturdier than the more modern ones. With the machine, store the manual, some sewing machine oil and spare needles.

8. Sewing machine needles. Always purchase needles packaged in a hard plastic case. Needles packaged in paper/thin plastic-type packaging often have microscopic bends and knicks in them. Schmetz is a good, readily available brand. Store a variety of sizes. Sewing machine needles can also be used to remove splinters (sterilize first), hang pictures on walls and pierce a variety of materials.

9. Iron-on interfacing. A good quality iron-on knit interfacing can be used to mend small tears, re-enforce worn spots and buttons in ready-to-wear garments. If applied carefully, it can give new shape to a sagging sweater or soften rough seams.  Always store with the instructions and away from heat, moisture or dust. Cover your ironing surface before using and place a piece of white paper between the interfacing and your iron.

10. A few basic patterns. Look for a variety of multi-sized skirts, dress, blouse, elastic waist pants and nightwear patterns. Patterns go on sale monthly and can often be picked up for free at community events as well as freecycle. Additional patterns are available on the internet.

11. Fabrics. Not everyone needs a true ‘fabricaholic stash’, but it would be wise to have a supply of cotton flannel, broadcloth, denim, cotton cheesecloth and wool. Sheets purchased from the clearance rack can provide a lot of yardage at little cost. (thrift store sheets are less wise to store as they are often worn unevenly and have been repeatedly washed) The flannel can be made into diapers, bedding, nightwear, re-usable sanitary products, as an insulator and for cleaning. Broadcloth can be made into garments, burial clothes, bedding and household items. Denim is nearly indestructable. Old jeans can be recycled into a variety of items. Wool is self-extinguishing, insulating and it breathes. 100% wool blankets can be used for a variety of purposes, including clothing. If you want to experiment, try felting wool by washing it several times in an electric clothes washer. Follow with a spin in the dryer. The resulting fiber is nearly water proof and incredibly warm. It won’t ravel and can be washed.  Cheesecloth is used in many areas of cooking, gardening and can be turned into gauze bandages. If you want to expand from those basics, add some colors, prints and a variety of textures.

12. Thread. Store a variety of hand sewing, hand quilting, buttonhole and machine quilting threads. Have on hand at least several spools of basic thread in white, beige, black, navy and red. Purchase a good quality thread such as Gutterman or Mettler. Hand quilting thread is stronger than ‘regular’ thread and can even sew up a human cut in an emergency. It is coated to make it resistant to breaking and can tolerate more stress than regular thread. Buttonhole thread is one of the strongest threads and can be used to repair heavy-duty items. Machine quilting thread (different than hand quilting) is again coated to tolerate more times going through more layers of fabric. Remember, though, that hand quilting thread should NOT be used in a sewing machine. Thread is another item that goes on sale frequently.

13. Elastic. Store some elastic in a few widths varying from 1/4″ to 1.5″.

14. Seam ripper. Un-sewing is a part of the process! Seam rippers are good for cutting loose threads from ready-made garments, as well as picking out the thread left behind when a button falls off. The sharpest seam rippers have curved blades and were based on disposable scalpels.

15. Thimble. A leather one with a metal tip is the easiest to get used to.

16. ‘Wonder under’ and similar products. There are a variety of products on the market designed to fuse, either temporarily or permanently, two pieces of fabric together. Steam-a-seam, stitch-witchery and wonder under are all brand names of these type of products which serve different purposes. Fusibles will allow you to quickly hem an item, repair a seam, make decorative items, hold items in place while stitching, as well as a variety of other useful purposes. LIke the interfacing, cover your ironing surface and put a protective layer between the fusible and your iron. Store with the instructions, away from heat, moisture and light.

17. Pins. Straight pins — my favorites are the long ones with the colored plastic or glass heads. You can iron over the glass heads. Never sew over a pin with your sewing machine! Also store safety pins.

18. Marking tools. Plain white chalk, tailor’s chalk in blue or pink, and a sharp #2 pencil are the basics.

19. Book. Find a good, basic ‘how to’ book such as Nancy Zieman’s “Let’s Sew: A Beginner’s Sewing Guide,” which was written for children in the 4-H program. If that is too basic, add Ms. Zieman’s ‘10-20-30 Minutes to Sew’ or her “Sewing With Confidence: A Beginner’s Guide.” The next level would be “Pattern Fitting With Confidence” or “Fitting Finesse”. Nancy’s books are always clearly written with great illustrations. All of her titles can be found used or at very reasonable prices. She has been on PBS for years, her shows are repeatedly shown and always informative. (And she is a genuinely nice woman!)

20. Containers. Store all of your supplies in labeled containers away from dust, heat and light.

A bit of sewing know-how can save you countless dollars and, maybe, provide you with a wonderful creative outlet that has proven to have significant health benefits. If nothing else, hauling bolts of fabric around is aerobic exercise.

The week before Christmas and all through the land,

Folks are scurrying and feeling rather grand.

Now is the time for the wise to prepare,

So that holidays will occur without a scare!

Okay, so the poetry isn’t great, but just to make certain that your holidays are more merry than scary, remember a few last minute reminders:

SHOPPING:

• Try to go without little ones so you aren’t distracted
• Keep packages out of sight–lock that trunk!
• Be constantly aware of your surroundings
• If you must shop alone and at night, ask for security to walk you to your car, especially in a large and/or dark parking lot
• Carry valuables in your front pockets. Avoid a purse or tote if possible
• Keep your credit cards in sight when completing transactions
• Be aware of anyone looking over your shoulder while you process your transaction
• Don’t process a purchase while clerk is on the phone, especially if speaking in another language and holding your credit card
• Use internet sites that are secure
• If you are gone from home all day, ask trusted neighbor to pick up packages left at your front door.
• Keep your receipts–most merchants have tightened up return policies!
• Have some cash for emergencies and small purchases

TRAVEL

• Have cash for emergencies
• Re-read hints about winter travel
• Plan plenty of time for delays
• Keep your cellphone charged
• Check car condition before travel

HOME

• If going away, use timers on lights and talk radio channel
• Ask trusted neighbor to bring in mail and newspapers
• Don’t put gifts where others can see them through open drapes
• Be sure to practice fire safety, especially with lit candles and flammable decorations
• If having house guests, be certain their medications are up & away from little hands
• Cut up and bag boxes from high priced items when disposing of them or take to recycling center
• Practice safe food handling

Have a safe, blessed, healthy and happy Christmas!

If any of you are like me, Christmas stocking stuffing can be an expensive and often frustrating part of Christmas cheer.  You can spend a great deal of money for little ‘doo-dads’ that are often forgotten too quickly. Instead of meaningless dribble, consider stuffing those pesky stockings with useful items for your 72-hour kit (or Bug Out Bags as some folks call them). These items need not be boring or too terribly practical–make them fun by personalizing them, adding some glitz or mixing in with non-essential items. These ideas also translate well into the small daily gifts of Advent calendars or Hanukkah celebrations. Some ideas to think about include:

• Small flashlights for each bedroom. The best ones have a lanyard or other string attached so that they can hang from a bedpost, out of sight. Find ones in bright, fun colors or the small ultra-bright LED flashlights. There are even ones that you can bend!

• Batteries for those electronic gadgets & flashlights. Consider rechargeable batteries so that you can quit buying batteries every few weeks.

• Waterproof matches and container

• Swiss army knife –there is one available that is the size of a credit card and holds all sorts of cool stuff. Again, they come in lots of bright, fun colors.

• Screwdriver set–a mini set is a great thing to have in each car as well as your 72-hour kit

• Compass or a combination whistle and compass device

• Reflective mirror

• Small toiletries, including a disposable razer, travel sized toothbrush and tooth paste, small soap, shampoo and lotion. Check out the travel section at your local discount store for other items.

• ‘Space’ emergency blanket

• Folding cup

• Camp utensil set and/or ‘mess kit’

• Pocket size survival and/or first aid guide

• Rain poncho

• Hand and/or foot warmers

• Key chain whistle and/or flashlight

• Thermal socks and/or wool mittens/gloves

• A wool ‘watch’ cap–the type used by the military is warm, water repellent and folds compactly.

• Small first aid kit

• Small, purse sized holder for band-aids

• Mini battery operated alarm clock

• Headlamp style flashlight

• ‘Power’ bars

• 100 hour candle

• Water purifying tablets or ’sani straw’ device

• Long shelf life boxed water

• Pocket-sized package of toilet paper and tissues. Some of the dollar stores have them in fun wrappers such as Hello Kitty.

• A Bowie knife with sheath

• Flint and steel

• Small knife sharpener

• Mini first aid primer–check with your local Red Cross or County Extension office for free ones

• CPR mouth shield

• Small card games or other sources of entertainment such as Sudoku books

• Mini sewing kit–you can easily assemble one in an old prescription bottle (be sure to wash it out) or empty 35mm film canister. Include several sharp needles, thread, thread clipper, buttons, a snap and several safety pins

• Travel sized hand sanitizer, hand wipes and disinfectant spray

• Jumper cables

• Small size roll of duct tape. Look for bright colors or fun prints.

• Small roll of heavy twine or rope

You might also consider making mini-kits for each car, the office or your college-bound student.

Check out the camping aisles and see what little goodies might be interesting and helpful. You never know what you might find! You may also find that hunting gear and summer sports equipment is on the clearance rack.

And be sure to save all of that excess hard candy you and your family receive during the holidays. Seal it up tight in a ziploc bag, food saver bag or other air tight container to add to your long-term storage and 72-hour kits.

The costumes are put away, the jack-o-lanterns wilting and Thanksgiving is around the corner. It is time, once again, to consider the impending holiday season. This year the great majority of folks are wondering if reality is going to cause us all to turn into Scrooge! There is no need to fear being haunted by the ghosts of Christmas, no matter what your economic situation, if you but plan ahead, use a dose of creativity, think clearly and start NOW to wish those you care about a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, Kwanzaa or whatever you celebrate.

The first step is to BEGIN NOW–if you haven’t already. (You really smart people took our advice last year and may have a running head start on your holiday planning. Wahoo for you!!) For those of you that were a bit slower on the uptake, go back and read last year’s holiday missive first:

Warning: Holidays Ahead!!

NOW, we are ready to move forward to Post-Graduate Holiday Planning. Never willing to rest on our laurels, we are forging ahead to find even more creative way to be kindly, loving, generous and thoughtful — while maintaining our economic equilibrium– for the happy days ahead. Follow these easy tricks and earn your Masters of Generous Frugality:

1. WHAT YOU HAVE: First and foremost, do a solid inventory of what you have on hand. What supplies do you have that could be turned into gifts? Old jeans? Google how to make a tote bag or re-usable shopping bag utilizing these ’scraps’. Plain candles? Can you decorate them? Containers? Fill them up with a treat you make or buy for next to nothing. Plain paper or note cards? Turn them into Christmas cards. Write a Christmas letter and forget the card!

Need supplies to complete your project?  Michael’s and JoAnn’s will email you coupons nearly every week that give you 40 to 50% percent off your purchase.

2. COUPONING: Even those who do not regularly use coupons might want to reconsider for the holiday season. Expecting a lower than average holiday surge of shopping, companies right and left are offering up some fantastic savings on toys, games and gift ware. This week, games can be purchased for $1. Sit ‘n spin for $6.14. Many of these coupons are available online and several enterprising websites offer you not only the opportunity to print the coupons, but team the coupons up with store specific sales. These sites save you time and money! A few to check out are:

http://www.dealseekingmom.com/  This intrepid coupon and bargain shopper does a great job of keeping you up-to-date on current coupons and deals. If you browse the site a bit, you can learn how to get items for FREE and even get money back. Read up on how to play the Drugstore Game–she’s amazing (and that is a compliment coming from this veteran bargain shopper). Sign up for her email alerts and she will send you regular updates. I’ve tried her approach and it does work.

http://attentiontargetshoppers.blogspot.com/ Another great site that combines coupons with sales. I learned that you can ’stack’ coupons! You can use a Target coupon and a manufacturing coupon to often score free or nearly free items. Offers that combine coupons with purchases rewarded with a Target gift card are also highlighted. One listing today is for a free portrait sitting and 8×10 (or 2 5×7’s, wallets, etc) at a Target photo studio. Have a little child and grandparents? You have a great gift for free!! Ginger also points out other offers.

Follow some of the other couponing links on these sites and be amazed at the time and money these sites can save you!

3. FREEBIES: Using the sites listed above (and similar ones) you may be surprised at what you can get for free. Don’t forget other introductory offers, samples and ‘gift with purchase’ items. For instance, the Kodakgallery.com is giving away a MILLION $15 gift certificates. It is easy and they actually have gifts for $15. Shipping charges are super low.

Look for offers everywhere you shop. Today, I ordered 5 blouses and 3 pairs of pants on clearance (total of $35 with shipping) AND received a $30 gift with purchase–an item I had planned to buy for a family member.

Walmart.com provides regularly changing links to sign up to receive a variety of free samples, many of which are suitable for stocking stuffers or to fill that gift with purchase cosmetic bag. Give the filled bag to a traveling friend, relative or the college bound student. ‘Tween girls would also love such a gift!

Join freecycle.org and trade useful items with your community. Need jars to fill? Ask on freecycle. A glue gun? Ask on freecyle. Daily postings are emailed to you and the items offered are absolutely amazing.

3. GOT CHILDREN? If you have a young child and extended family that thinks your child is absolutely amazing (and of course they are right), you have low cost or free gifts at your fingertips. Print out low-cost or free (see Kodak Gallery listing above) photos of your child. Turn them into simple ornaments (get supplies for free or 50% off using coupons), frame them in repurposed frames or simply mail the photo with a loving letter of all you learned about parenting from the family member. Adhere photos to magnet strips to create instant refrigerator art: Keep all of those advertising magnets you get, apply double stick tape or permanent adhesive spray, attach the photo and trim around the child’s face.  What Grandparent wouldn’t love that? If your child is older, enlist them in designing and making frames or other gifts such as ‘raggedy reverse applique’ items. Old blue jeans can be turned into charming frames. Simply browse the internet for loads of free ideas and instructions.

4. FOOD STORAGE: Ever thought of food storage as a source for gift giving? Your storage can work holiday magic in multiple ways. First, cut your grocery bill this season by utilizing food you already have stored. If you have the basics stored, you should be able to produce baked goods to give as gifts. When I had four children in school and lived on a single income in a high cost area, I began baking a super simple French bread recipe for my children’s teachers and school staff. The hot bread was wrapped in simple brown kraft paper that I had on hand and tied up with raffia (that I had on hand).  A small gift card signed by the appropriate child was attached. The hot loaves were delivered over a two day period at the end of the school day and were very well received. Out of pocket expense? Zip! If you don’t want to bake, save some empty jars (or score free canning jars on freecycle) and fill with food storage ingredients for bake-it-yourself cookies, soups, granola or other mixes. Grab some powdered milk, cocoa, sugar and make hot chocolate mix. Package it up and place in a mug with a cute tag. Again, recipes are free online. (Note: Do NOT follow instructions for ‘canning’ cakes in jars. It is a recipe for botulism which is NOT a nice gift)

Have wheat or rice? Sew up a small fabric bag (recycle old clothing, sheets, etc. if you don’t have yards of fabric) and fill with wheat or rice. These bags are then heated in the microwave and provide soothing relief for sore muscles. The first batch I made disappeared when a bunch of house guests fell in love with them. (No, they didn’t steal them, but I couldn’t say no to their requests to take their new found best friend home.) A deluxe version would include a small case for the bag.

5. POST HALLOWEEN & ‘AUTUMN’ CLEARANCE: Scoop up clearance rack candy that isn’t wrapped in Halloween wrappers, solid color candles, baskets and simple wreath forms after the 31st. Also check for totes in Autumn colors, gold colored napkins, plates, containers & mugs as well as baking mixes. Many will be 90% the week after Halloween. Put some candy in a jar, container, mug, basket or even ziploc bags to share with co-workers, doctor offices, neighbors or anyone else you need a gift for. Don’t forget to save some for stockings. Take a plain candle and glue gun candy canes or twigs around the edge–you have a lovely ‘designer’ look for pennies. For a more elaborate gift, place candle in a basket with some cloth napkins, napkin rings or other hostess items. Children have too much Trick or Treat candy? Save some for gingerbread houses and other holiday decorating. Don’t forget to check your grocery and drug stores for clearance items!

6. GROCERY STORES. Always check their clearance racks for specialty gifts. I recently found cedar wraps, a perfect gift for my gourmet brother, marked down 90%. I’m still hunting the library book sale for a great cookbook to go with it. Next to the wraps were gorgeous napkin rings (see above) at 90% off!

7. MAKE IT A GAME. Is everyone on a tight budget? Admit it and make gift giving more about the thought than the expense. One of my brilliant daughter-in-laws came up with a game we participated in for several years. At Thanksgiving, we all drew names of other family members. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we had to find a gift for the person we drew that did not exceed $1 in cost. The gift had to be purchased at a dollar store, thrift store, used book store or yard sale. I was not allowed to purchase items on clearance racks–the family decided that was an unfair advantage.  ;( We exchanged the gifts on Christmas Eve and it was GREAT fun! Some of those $1 gifts required much, much more thought than simply running to the nearest store and buying whatever we thought the person wanted. One son found three books his person really wanted at a used book shop. Another son and daughter-in-law announced an upcoming grandchild utilizing a dollar store frame. The key is imagination and thoughtfulness.

8. EBATES, REBATES AND REWARDS. As you shop, get the most benefit from every dollar you spend. Sign up for sites such as ebates.com, that rebate a portion of purchases you make at participating merchants. Extra discounts are also available from many of these sites. If you utilize a credit card (which you pay off every month) that offers a cashback or other incentive, you have furthered your spending power. To top it all off, look for manufacturer’s rebates. Savvy shoppers can recoup a sizable portion of everything they spend. On the purchase noted in #3 above, I will receive a 4% rebate from ebates.com in addition to 4% from my credit card. 8% isn’t much on a $35 purchase, but those rebates do add up.

9. DIY. A handmade gift shows not only generosity but true thought as you give of yourself, your time and your talents. One of the most beautiful art bowls I have ever seen was a thank you gift given to a neighbor. The neighbor had cared for the children of a very cash-strapped friend. As a thank you gift, the dollar-poor but grateful woman cut strips of wool from several old, worn pieces of clothing and wove the richly colored strips of fabric into a beautiful bowl. The out-of-pocket expense was zero and yet a wonderful piece of art was created. No matter what your talents, sharing them with love is a gift of great worth. Teaching our children to cherish a handmade gift blesses them with a greater appreciation of the true meaning of gift-giving.

10. MAKE THE SIMPLE MEANINGFUL. Turning a simple, inexpensive item into something meaningful elevates the gift to a true expression of love. One Christmas, a friend of mine cut out simple wooden heart ornaments, stained them, added a ribbon and a small poem about following the star of Bethlehem. Though the ornament alone was lovely, the poem added great meaning to the gift. I have also seen inexpensive cookie cutters in significant shapes turned into an ornament with a piece of ribbon. Add a poem or quote and you have a thoughtful gift!

11. START A TRADITION. Traditions can build family unity, bring meaning to holidays and bind us through the generations. Begin a traditional gift that you give each year. As grandchildren appeared in my extended family, one sister began the tradition of giving each child a yearly Christmas ornament. Each year’s ornament was inexpensive, unique, labeled with the child’s name, the year and embellished in some way by my sister. The children entered adulthood with their own collection of ornaments. Another aunt I know gives each niece and nephew a book. Another sews simple pillowcases. Such a tradition allows you to plan ahead, keep spending under control and still remember family members and friends in a meaningful way.

12. FAMILY HEIRLOOMS AND HISTORY. If you are the keeper of family heirlooms, consider giving some as gifts to recipients that will appreciate them. My Mother has begun doing this recently, gifting beautiful items from our family history to grandchildren that will appreciate them. She is cautious that the recipient will treasure the item and keep it to be passed on to the next generation. If you have valuable family history, genealogy records or a compilation of family stories, consider copying these papers, placing in a binder and passing them on as gifts. If you are a grandparent or great-grandparent, your own life story would be a wonderful thing to write, copy and give as gifts. Gather family recipes and copy them for family members. Add small stories about the origin of the recipe or the person who submitted it.

13. THINK VINTAGE. ‘Vintage’ items are quite the rage in fashion and home decorating. Find interesting items in consignment shops, thrift stores, yard sales or your own belongings. Grandma’s mid-century costume jewelry may be just the thing for the fashion forward college student. Make sure the item is clean and suited to the recipient (which every thoughtful gift should be).

14. USED STUFF WITH MEANING. Thrift stores, consignment sales, freecycle and yard sales can yield more than a slightly stained shirt. Look for interesting mugs, plates that could hold cookies, tea cups that could be turned into a pin cushion, lovely old spoons for that hot chocolate mix, interesting old frames for those free photos you are going to print, scrapbooking papers for interesting wrapping, rubber stamps to decorate plain paper, vintage photos to be cut up and used to decorate a plain box, small pieces of unusual jewelry, out of print cookbooks, old kitchen utensils, bowls to go with soup mix from your food storage or baskets for holding a loaf of bread. Don’t be afraid to haggle over prices and look beyond the obvious use for an item.

15. SHARE A HOBBY. Do you have excess craft or hobby supplies? Enough to share? Consider putting together a small kit to share your hobby with a child, teen or another adult. Offer free lessons to go with the kit or find a book with simple instructions.

16. GROUP GIFTS PART ONE. The first type of group gift is when multiple people share the cost of one great item. My brother and I have done this on multiple occasions in order to give my Mother a gift we know she really wants, but is a bit out of our singular price range. Even if the price tag is low, a gift that requires a great deal of time could be shared between multiple family members. Family history, anthologies of creative writing, photo albums, remembrances and other such gifts can be given by a group of people and hold great meaning for the recipient. Perhaps each child and grandchild in a family could write an article or personal letter about a favorite grandparent. One family member can assemble the offerings into a notebook. This type of well-thought out and loving gift would certainly brighten the holidays of an elderly family member.

17. GROUP GIFTS PART TWO. Consider ‘family’ gifts instead of individual gifts. A game that the entire family can play, a movie or other item that all can share (and would want to enjoy) is a way to give a nice gift at a lower cost. Packaging can make the gift more interesting, such as a movie, a ‘theater sized’ box of candy and some microwave popcorn packaged in a popcorn box shows more thought than simply wrapping up a DVD.

18. SHIP EARLY, SHIP SMART. As you choose meaningful, budget-appropriate gifts, keep in mind any shipping needs. Keep items light weight and not over-sized. If the family gathers from far and wide for Thanksgiving at Mom’s house, have everyone’s Christmas gifts ready for them to transport home. Ship everything early and compare rates. FedEx often beats the post office and if you open an account at fedex.com, you receive a discount.

Whatever tactic you use to keep your holiday meaningful and budget-conscious, plan ahead, give sincere thought to the recipient and remember that the most meaningful gifts are those given from true, sincere love.

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Self-reliance can be accomplished by small steps taken on a regular basis. This week’s 10×100 Challenge Goals:

43. Add a first aid kit to your car pack.

44. Stick a set of fuses in your car pack.

45. Put a flashlight in your car pack. Package the batteries outside of the flashlight.

46. Add a flare to your car pack.

47. Add a can of Fix-a-flat to your car pack.

48. Check your spare tire & tire iron.

Whether you have bundled children off to school or are living life child-free, now is a good (and often neglected) time to hit clearance racks. The end of summer and back to school rush is over and the retail leftovers can be great budget savers. Think creatively, as many items marked 75 to 80% off can be re-purposed from their original intent. Beef up your preparedness status while preserving your financial well-being. Just a few tips to guide you:

Don’t forget to look for items in stores that don’t usually carry summer and back to school items. The greatest savings are often found in drug stores, grocery stores and some department stores.

Remember that Christmas is just around the corner. Many school supplies (think markers, magnets, crayons, cute notepads, colorful pencils, specialty pens, stickers, permanent markers, thumb drives) make great stocking stuffers. My grandchildren were thrilled one year when I gave each of them a large package of scotch tape rolls, one of their favorite craft items. The older children also received miniature staplers. Look for socks, fun t-shirts (maybe for pj’s), zippered pouches and organizing boxes.

Don’t forget children’s birthday party gift bags, gifts and activity days.

Many crafters will appreciate organizational tools, art supplies, etc.

Classroom teachers might appreciate a box filled with replacement supplies as a Christmas gift. Glue sticks, liquid glues, markers, white board erasers, stickers, etc. would be welcomed mid-year. Add some chocolate for the teacher and you have that item checked off your holiday ‘to-do’ list.

Accumulate enough art supplies to stock a ‘rainy day’ box. Again, a great gift or stand-by activity for snow days, rainy days or sick days.

Restock your own office supplies and organizational aids.

Check out clearance displays of dorm room ‘necessities’. You will often find over-the-door ironing boards & shoe holders (which can be used in any room to hold a multitude of little things), irons, plastic shoe boxes, folding hampers, under-the-bed storage, small book shelves, decorative items, organizational items of all sorts and sheet sets drastically reduced. Bedding in twin, x-long twin and double sizes are most commonly clearanced.

Don’t forget to stock up for your own gift wrapping supplies, such as tape, labels and markers. Some organizational items will be so inexpensive that they can be turned into gift wrapping. A shelf storage box lined with tissue paper makes a great gift box and a secondary gift.

Think 72-hour kits when you see flip-flops, zippered pouches, hand sanitizer, small notebooks, pencils, tape, markers, thumb drives and even flashlights.

Zippered pouches designed to hold small items in a notebook can be used in your purse, school backpacks, glove compartments, 72-hour kits, junk drawers, suitcases, overnight bags and craft rooms. Their size and transperant fronts make them ideal for organizing small items, while providing protection from dust and moisture.

Fill a zippered pouch with a pencil, your insurance information, a small notepad, a small flashlight, a disposable camera and a permanent marker. Store in your glove compartment. You might want to add a small bottle of hand sanitizer.

Look for kitchen items such as storage containers, food storage bags and even plastic dishes being clearanced out.

Snack and lunch box items packaged with summer or back to school themes may be greatly reduced. Freeze candies for Halloween or Christmas. Baking supplies such as cupcake papers may be reduced.

3×5 cards can be used for note taking, but also for labeling storage containers, recording important information for backpacks, glove compartments & 72-hour kits.

Use a thumb drive to record medical history, contact information, allergies, etc and attach it to your keyring. This can be a life-saver if you have significant allergies or other medical complications. Mark the thumb drive with a large red cross so that emergency personnel will notice it.

Purchase your family’s summer clothes for next year now. Don’t forget swimsuits, floaties, goggles, etc. Store them in a box clearly labeled and you’ll have a head start on next year. In many climates, ’summer’ clothes can extend well into fall. Don’t forget basic items such as underwear, socks, etc.

Office supply stores may clear out their specially packaged CD-R’s, DVD-R’s and other computer-related items.

Have fun shopping the clearance racks and look forward to the cooler days of autumn!

Before you know it, the school bell will be ringing from kindergarten to the hallowed halls of advanced degrees. As summer winds down, it is time to once again set those alarm clocks, pack the lunches, fill up the backpacks and send the children off to school (or prepare for your homeschooling year).

No matter the grade or age of your learner, starting early and planning well can help make the school year a successful one for you and your student-children. Just a few pointers to help ease the transition:

1. Reset body clocks several weeks before school starts. If your summer schedule has included later-than-usual bedtimes and wake-up times, now is the time to reset those internal clocks. Begin with a few minutes each day, working toward a regular school schedule at least a week before school begins.

2. Do your back-to-school shopping NOW (if you haven’t already completed it). Be certain to get your supply lists from school and shop at home FIRST. You might be surprised how many supplies you have on hand. Take your amended list to the store and check off items as you purchase them. Label everything and pack away (far, far away if you have anxious little fingers around) so that all is ready before school begins.

3. Shop at home first for school clothes. Get the laundry caught up and see what junior already has in his/her wardrobe BEFORE you go shopping. Set a strict budget and shop the end-of-summer sales for fall clothing. Don’t forget to check sibling hand-me-downs as a potential source of clothing. Also check with friends, thrift shops, freecycle and Craigslist for clothing exchanges & great deals.

4. Include in every backpack an emergency contact card that includes your child’s name, address, phone, parents’ contact info, alternate contact person, important medical history (allergies, conditions, etc) and out-of-state contact. Laminate the card or seal in a ziploc bag. Attach to the inside of the backpack with a safety pin.

5. Label backpacks on the inside with your child’s name—not the outside. Outside names help predators befriend small children.

6. If your child has severe allergies to items that might be in the class or lunch rooms (such as peanuts, wheat, etc) be certain to speak with the school administration, school nurse and all classroom teachers that might have contact with your child (don’t forget art, music, etc). Speak face-to-face as well as present written information about the allergy, the possible reaction and medication that must be given. Don’t hesitate to check back with all you spoke to in a week or two to make certain that they remember. Ask what has been done to protect your child.

7. Do several ‘trial runs’ to elementary school with your child. If they are walking, point out the homes of friends on their route that they can seek help from. Be certain they know who to go to if they should ever come home and find no one home. The same thing goes for after school caregivers..make sure they have an emergency alternative planned.

8. Check to see what the school’s policy is concerning early dismissal or delayed starts. Do they have an emergency contact system in place that you can sign up for? Do you have childcare arranged for such instances?

9. Be certain that your older children (middle school & high school) are well versed in preventing accidents, how to extract themselves from a dangerous situation and who to report suspected or potential violence to. Have a frank discussion with them about the dangers of fire arms, weapons, drugs, hate crimes, sexual abuse and harassment (including being groped, spoken to inappropriately, etc), physical threats and abuse. Sexual abuse and harassment have become so common, that a shockingly high percentage of high school girls do not even recognize it when it happens to them,

10. Have the same frank discussion with college-bound students. Be certain that they are aware of safety precautions, the dangers of date rape, the potential for drugging of beverages (at a party or other social gathering, they should only drink from a can or bottle they open and which remains in their sight at all times), car safety and dorm safety. Know what safety procedures are in place at your child’s college campus and be certain they your student understands them.

11. Be certain that your middle and high school students understand that the effort they put into school now will affect the remainder of their life. The grades and activities they participate in now will affect their ability to be accepted to college & possibly win scholarships.

12. Establish good sleeping and eating habits for your students! Many high school students are chronically sleep deprived and their grades suffer. Look carefully at school lunches offered. Are the meals nutritious, healthful and handled carefully? If you are packing lunches, be certain to read up on safe food handling practices.

13. Be open and realistic about your expectations for your children’s academic endeavors. Be certain the child undeerstands what you expect and the consequences if they do not meet those expectations.

14. Have a frank discussion with your college-bound students about the realities of student debt. The average undergraduate leaves college with a diploma and $25,000 to $45,000 in debt. Advanced degree holders leave with debts that spiral upwards of $100,000. Be certain that your college student understands the full picture of the dangers of accruing not only student loan debt, but credit card debt. There are thousands and thousands of stories out there of college graduates with unmarketable degrees and a lifetime of debt to pay back. Explore other avenues of financing college, such as scholarships, work study programs, community college for general education credits, work-release programs and payback options through employers. If student loans are an absolute necessity, be sure that they are used only for absolutely necessary educational expenses. Be certain that the student understands that debt accumulated now will not disappear and should they marry, they may be doubling their debt.

15. Send your college student to the dorm with a mini-72 hour kit. Include foods that can be eaten without cooking, a change of clothing, emergency contact info, water, a first aid kit, a ’space’ blanket, a flashlight, a candle, a simple sewing kit, some cash in small bills and some matches.

16. Before college begins, check to see if your student is covered by your medical and dental plans. Be sure that your student has the appropriate policy identification cards and knows where to get care. If your child has a less-than-run-of-the-mill medical history, locate a physician in the college area and forward pertinent medical information.

17. Be certain that your college-bound student understands the realities of and how to prevent identity theft, including medical identity theft.

Enjoy watching your child grow up and conquer the world!

NOTE: While writing this article, I missed some VERY important information. Thankfully, Tami sent in a comment reminding me with her words of wisdom. Here is her comment:

“I just want to add to your note about preparing for college students–parents need to know that when their child heads off to college, there are privacy laws that apply to their child, and the parents do not have the legal right to get any information about grades or anything else. Also the parents do not have the right to be notified about any medical issues and do not have the right to be involved in any medical decisions. This can all be addressed legally, with medical power of attorney and other legal documents, but it’s something that all parents need to be aware of and discuss with their almost-grown children.”

And from me:

Thank you, Tami for pointing out this important item I missed! You are absolutely correct that parents (even ones paying the tuition bill) will have NO legal right to obtain information about their legal-aged child’s school or medical records. Even if your child is ill, the physician is constrained by law. He/she cannot discuss your child’s case or history without (except for possibly life & death situations) your child’s consent. Before dropping Junior off, have him/her execute a medical power of attorney which gives you permission to speak to caregivers. You can easily find a ‘fill in the blank’ form online by searching for medical power of attorney. Ideally, the form will be notarized and include express permission in compliance with HIPPA laws allowing you to speak to any medical professional caring for your child. A similar form should be completed with regards to academic records, etc. Thanks again, Tami!

By special request, here’s an addendum just for those with little ones in the house. Before proceeding, be CERTAIN that you consult your baby’s pediatrician as to current guidelines for the introduction of semi-solid, solid and finger foods. Let your physician know of any family history of food allergies. NEVER leave a baby or young child alone while they are eating!

Loving parents of Little Ones are the perfect targets for the savvy marketeer. The Ad Guys know that parents who want to do what is best for their baby are often chronically tired, over-worked and short on time. This combo plate of weaknesses allows those Ad Guys to convince you that you need to part with a greater portion of your hard earned cash to keep your baby well fed, happy and ‘in’ with the other babies. Ah, but you are smarter, aren’t you?

Let’s start with the littlest of babies, the beautiful little newborns. Newborn humans cannot tolerate solid food and must be fed with either breast milk or a formula designed to replicate breast milk. The health benefits of breast feeding are well established. However, have you considered the economic benefit? Conservative estimates are that the breastfed baby costs at least $1500 a year less to feed than the formula fed baby. The savings takes into account the added calories required by the nursing mother.

As baby progresses to semi-solid foods, the marketing gurus go into high gear! Buckle up your wallets and protect yourself from the slings and arrows of ads especially tailored to pierce your financial armor.

The first weapon in your self-protection arsenal is the knowledge that you can prepare at home nearly any baby food your Little Darling will ever need. The ingredients are easily accessible, quickly assembled and DO NOT have to come in cute packages with little chubby baby faces. Recipes abound on multiple reputable websites for everything from baby cereal (whirl some instant oatmeal from the adult grocery aisle in the blender, add hot water and you have ‘baby’ cereal) to combination meals for older babies.

Is your baby ready for applesauce? Purchase a large jar of unsweetened, all-natural applesauce from the ‘adult aisles’. Freeze the applesauce in ice cube trays for single serving portions. When frozen, pop out the ’sauce’ cubes and store in ziploc bags. Going out for the morning? Pop a frozen portion in a small bag or plastic bowl and allow to thaw. Difference in cost? ‘Baby’ applesauce is $2.18lb. ‘Regular’ applesauce in small containers is $1.32lb. In a large jar? 87 cents a pound.

Bananas? Smoosh a ripe one and you have baby bananas. Again, freeze the excess or eat it yourself for a healthy snack. Baby food bananas? $2.49lb. ‘Regular’ bananas? 39 cents per pound.

Veggies? Mash up a baked sweet potato. Purchase salt-free canned vegetables and smoosh them up! Canned lima beans, peas, green beans, sliced beets, asparagus and other soft vegetables become baby food quickly and offer you a huge savings. If baby can’t eat the entire can within a day or two, freeze the left-overs in ice cube trays. Baby food peas?  $2.18 per pound. ‘Regular’ peas? 45 cents per pound.

Fruits? In addition to bananas and applesauce, don’t forget the wide variety of canned (in juice, not syrup) fruits available as well as frozen fruits (without added sugar). Thawed frozen strawberries are mushy already! Canned pears are easy to mash or cut up for a baby ready for finger foods. ‘Baby’ pears? $2.18+ per pound. Canned pears? 60 cents a pound.

Proteins? Scrambled eggs, smashed up hard-boiled eggs, mild white fish (microwave a small piece), boiled or canned chicken can be reduced easily and quickly to a moosh that baby can swallow. ‘Baby’ chicken & noodles? $6.33 lb. ‘Regular’ chicken noodle soup? 76 cents per pound.

Carbs? Baked sweet potato, soft cooked pastas, canned beans, rice, quinoa, oatmeal and other grains can be cooked and pureed for your spoon fed baby. Frozen cooked carbs without added salts, fats or preservatives are a great alternative. Cooked items can always be pureed and frozen in individual-sized portions. ‘Baby’ pasta? $3+ per pound. ‘Regular’ pasta? As little as 69 cents a pound. ‘Baby’ oatmeal? $3.19 pound. ‘Regular’ oatmeal? 98 cents pound.

If you want to speed up the mashing process, purchase an inexpensive baby food mill. Many fresh fruits can be easily ground in the baby mill. Watermelon, blueberries, raspberries, ripe mango, strawberries, kiwi and any other soft fruit can be processed quickly and easily. AGAIN, CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT FEEDING GUIDELINES AND HOW TO INTRODUCE NEW FOODS. BE ESPECIALLY ALERT TO REACTIONS TO HIGH ACID FOODS SUCH AS ORANGES!

The golden moment for many parents is when Baby is old enough to sit in a high chair and feed themselves. Hooray! You can now (hopefully) get a bite or two into your mouth while Baby is happily eating independently. Even better, Baby can be entertained and contained while you take care of nearby tasks. Independent eating is not only important for your sanity, but Baby develops eye hand coordination, fine motor skills and a host of other developmental necessities. Ignore the mess and let Baby have at it as soon as it is safe.

Nearly any food that you have been grinding for the spoon fed baby can transition into finger foods. Introduce new flavors, textures and tastes to avoid developing a picky eater. Eventually, Baby will be enjoying the nutritious, economical meals that you prepare for the rest of the family.

It is important to carefully watch your baby as they begin to feed themselves. The ability to masticate foods and swallow them is a learned behavior. Be certain that early finger foods are cut into small pieces, are easily mashed without molars and won’t choke Baby if they slide down without adequate chewing.

Finger foods are a Golden Egg for companies that want to separate you from your money. If smooshed baby foods are silly expensive per pound, ‘junior’ and ‘toddler’ foods are absolutely absurdly expensive!

Early finger foods that require nearly no preparation on your part could include thawed frozen peas (they are easier for baby to pick up than canned peas), small well cooked pastas such as alphabet pasta or ditalini, canned or cooked fruits in small pieces (fruit cocktail packed in juice is a good choice though some babies have trouble with the ‘cherries), scrambled eggs, any soft fruit cut into small pieces, canned green beans, other beans, etc. that are soft. Merely cut the food up into small pieces and put on a clean high chair tray. Remember that you can freeze meals and thaw quickly in the microwave or by immersing the container in hot water. ALWAYS double check the temperature of Baby’s food before serving.

Combo meal? Try draining a can of low-sodium, natural soup such as chicken noodle, vegetable or alphabet soup. This is a great way to transition Baby to the tastes and feel of table foods. Small size cans may be more expensive per serving, but are ideal for quick baby meals and meals out of your home. ‘Toddler’ meal? $3.25 per pound. ‘Regular’ soup? 50 cents a pound!

Meats and proteins? As soon as it is allowed, small pieces of canned chicken, fish, cheeses and tofu can be quickly chopped up into bite sized pieces. Canned meats will be soft enough for baby to chew without molars, are thoroughly cooked and easy to have on hand. Thoroughly cooked and drained ground beef in small pieces can be eaten by older babies. Eventually, Baby will transition to small pieces of baked chicken, turkey and other meats. ‘Baby’ chicken ’sticks? $8.90 per pound. (And do we really want to know what is in a chicken stick?) ‘Regular’ tuna? $1.75 lb. Boneless skinless chicken breast? $1.99 lb.

Carbs? Small pieces of lightly toasted bread, canned beans, pastas, cubed sweet potatoes, little clumps of rice or other grains are all easily eaten. ‘Baby’ pasta with cheese? $3.79 lb. ‘Regular’ pasta with some fresh cheese? $1. per pound.

Snacks?  Baby ’snacks’ are a relatively new and OVER-PRICED, OVER-PROCESSED, UNDER-NUTRITIOUS ploy to separate you from your money!  Everything that goes into their mouths should be highly nutritious, as minimally processed as possible and contain little or no processed sugar. Whole grain, unsweetened dry cereal is an easy snack on the go. At home, Baby may be a ‘grazer’ requiring many small meals throughout the day. Give Baby a small portion of fruit, cheese, veggies or other ‘regular’ food rather than an over-priced, nutritionally challenged ’snack’. Not only will your wallet thank you, but Baby may just grow up thinking that ’snacks’ are for healthy foods! ‘Baby’ snack ‘banana puffs’? $10.81 per pound. (What snack do YOU eat that is $10.81 per pound?) A real banana? 49 cents a pound and MUCH more nutritious! ‘Baby’ snack ‘blueberry yogurt melts’? A WHOPPING $47.84 per pound! Organic frozen blueberries? $3.75lb. Baby ’snack crisps’? $23.65 lb. Whole grain oat cereal? $2.27 lb. Difference in nutritional value? Every ‘baby snack’ item showed the predominate nutritional contribution to be SODIUM with a bit of fat. That’s right! Up to $47.84 lb for SALT!

Feed your baby healthy, simple, nutritious snacks and save your money for their college education!

And you will have MORE MONEY in your bank account!