A few weeks back, Walgreens had their brand of diapers on sale and I decided to give them a try. Having had 4 children, I know that every brand is different AND every child is different, so since some brands have not worked with some of my children and were perfect for others, I figured the same would probably be true of store-brand diapers. Granted, we did not have Walgreens in my area until recently and this is the first child to try "their" brand, my other three never fared well in ANY other store brand diapers. I am so glad that I decided to try them.
First, I am a coupon and sale shopper, but with 2 babies in diapers, it is sometimes hard to always buy brand name as I often run out of manufacturer's coupons and do not get more until after I already needed them. That is what happened that week anyway and I reluctantly decided the best deal by far was to buy the Walgreens brand. Since it was only the littlest baby that needed diapers, I bought both packs (buy one, get one 1/2 off) in his size. Anyway, now that I have justified my purchase, let me tell you about them.
The biggest difference I noticed is the lack of a well-known cartoon character on the waist band. The Walgreens diapers have bright, colorful zoo animals, hearts, suns, and balloons instead. As a mom who thinks are children are introduced to commercialization at way too young an age, I greatly appreciate that feature. My children get just as excited seeing the bright colors and animals as they do about seeing Elmo. Actually, these are even better because there is no argument as they get older about who is on the diaper. My friend had a whole bunch of "Zoe" diapers left out of every pack because her son refused to wear a "girl" on his diaper. As for the other features, these were very similar to some of their brand name counterparts. Though there is one brand name diaper that you can actually feel the gel granules in the "zone" (even when dry)and the Walgreens ones do not have that gritty, grainy feel.
Now when compared to other store brands, these come out way ahead. In the past, I have found store brands to have side tabs that easily tear off as you try to put the diaper on. Not so with the Walgreens brand, the tabs are securely attached to the diaper and the Velcro-like tape holds very securely when the diaper is on. The tabs stretch well, which is important to me since my little guy actually wears newborn size, but pees like a fire hose and needs the absorbency of the size 2s. I can actually put these diapers on him and they do not fall off or leave gaps. The legs are also very stretchy and at least seem comfortable on him (he obviously can't verbally tell me if they are not). The outside and the inside fabric of the diaper is very soft, not scratchy at all. We have been using the diapers for a few days now and I have been very pleased with the absorbency as well. So pleased, that I think I may actually be able to use their size 1s instead, at least during the day. The diapers do swell as they get wet, but I have yet to find gel pieces on the baby or even in the diaper during changes (something I have experienced even with brand name diapers). The diapers also do not have that damp feeling in the mornings, after he has peed in them all night and like I said he pees a LOT and I am fortunate that he is sleeping through the night for the most part so he has pretty full diapers in the morning.
I am so glad that I took the risk and bought these store brand diapers. I am still going to shop for the diapers the way I always have, looking for the best deal after using sales and coupons, but it is nice to have another brand that I am comfortable adding to the list of prices I am willing to buy for the right price. Walgreens Comfort-Stretch Cloth-Like Diapers are definitely winners in my book!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
Money Monday: Meal Planning
Meal planning is exactly what it sounds like, planning out the meals you will serve. I prefer planning my meals each week, but I know many who plan monthly. Meal planning helps to save time, but also reduces stress and saves money.
When you know exactly what you are going to be serving it is easy to start preparing your ingredients when you have small bits of time throughout the day. It is also nice to not have to worry about what you will be serving and whether or not you will have what you need for the recipe, because you have already planned the meal and done the shoping for it. Meal planning is most effective when it is flexible though to allow for last minute emergencies that may occur. Once, we had a power outage on a night I had a big dinner planned. I was able to swap the night of the big dinner with a planned grilling night, with no problems.
Setting up a meal plan should take several things into account. First, ensure you are planning foods your family will actually eat. Second, use a store ad to plan your meals using items that are on sale that week (this is why I plan weekly) and also be sure to include any items you have a lot of on hand, possibly from a garden, previous sale (things you stocked up on), or otherwise. I like using Allrecipes to find recipes that use certain ingredients. The trick is to read the reviews the recipes and implement the advice given. Third, plan meals that will either give you lots of leftovers to use for another meal or plan for a "leftover" night once a week where you heat up all the leftovers and everyone eats what there is. The goal is to have as little waste as possible and to maximize your time and your money. Finally, be sure to plan meals that fit your schedule. Do not schedule a big meal that requires lots of preparation on a night when you will be out all day. Those are the nights for leftovers, stock pot meals, or pre-made meals.
When implementing your meal plan, be sure to check your meal plan every few days to prepare for the upcoming days and to make any necessary adjustments. If you realize that your spouse decided to eat the leftover roast beef, that you were going to use for tomorrow's dinner, for a late night snack, you will be able to rearrange the plan. This also allows you to purchase any ingredients that may have been otherwise used up or that you prefer to buy fresh the day you need them. You wil have the opportunity to ensure the meat is defrosted in time, too.
I would love to hear if any of you successfully follow meal plans. What are some of yout tips? I started doing meal plans about 3 years ago and wish I had come upon them sooner.
When you know exactly what you are going to be serving it is easy to start preparing your ingredients when you have small bits of time throughout the day. It is also nice to not have to worry about what you will be serving and whether or not you will have what you need for the recipe, because you have already planned the meal and done the shoping for it. Meal planning is most effective when it is flexible though to allow for last minute emergencies that may occur. Once, we had a power outage on a night I had a big dinner planned. I was able to swap the night of the big dinner with a planned grilling night, with no problems.
Setting up a meal plan should take several things into account. First, ensure you are planning foods your family will actually eat. Second, use a store ad to plan your meals using items that are on sale that week (this is why I plan weekly) and also be sure to include any items you have a lot of on hand, possibly from a garden, previous sale (things you stocked up on), or otherwise. I like using Allrecipes to find recipes that use certain ingredients. The trick is to read the reviews the recipes and implement the advice given. Third, plan meals that will either give you lots of leftovers to use for another meal or plan for a "leftover" night once a week where you heat up all the leftovers and everyone eats what there is. The goal is to have as little waste as possible and to maximize your time and your money. Finally, be sure to plan meals that fit your schedule. Do not schedule a big meal that requires lots of preparation on a night when you will be out all day. Those are the nights for leftovers, stock pot meals, or pre-made meals.
When implementing your meal plan, be sure to check your meal plan every few days to prepare for the upcoming days and to make any necessary adjustments. If you realize that your spouse decided to eat the leftover roast beef, that you were going to use for tomorrow's dinner, for a late night snack, you will be able to rearrange the plan. This also allows you to purchase any ingredients that may have been otherwise used up or that you prefer to buy fresh the day you need them. You wil have the opportunity to ensure the meat is defrosted in time, too.
I would love to hear if any of you successfully follow meal plans. What are some of yout tips? I started doing meal plans about 3 years ago and wish I had come upon them sooner.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Simply Sunday: Changing leaves
I have always loved autumn. It is such a colorful time of year with beautiful, rich shades of reds, oranges, and yellows. I was walking with my kids yesterday and as we walked, we talked about the hows and whys of the leaves changing, but the joy for all of us was in just enjoying the pretty colors. Then while driving today, we came upon a beautiful view of several trees all in different phases of leaf changing and it was just breathtaking. You also cannot write off the fun of raking together (ok maybe the raking is not fun) a pile of leaves and then jumping into them. The smell of the leaves is so earthy and lovely. Even my most favorite memories of childhood involve the fall leaves. There is just something so fun and innocent about enjoying and playing in the leaves.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Save-It Saturday: Homemade Cleaners
The average American uses approximately 40 pounds of non-natural household cleaners each year. These products often contain dangerous ingredients, including neurotoxins, carcinogens, allergens, central nervous system depressants, heavy metals, and other agents that cause or contribute to cancer, respiratory problems, reproductive abnormalities, allergic reactions, and behavioral problems, among other issues. Aside from the immediate problems they can cause to individuals, these products also find their way into the environment by being poured downt he sink or toilet, sprayed into the air, thrown in the trash, or otherwise make their way to the landfill where they are either incinerated in left to release their toxins into the ground, air and water. Some examples of concerns with non-natural cleaners include: algae blooms, caused by phosphates (found in dish and laundry detergents), kill fish and aquatic plants and release toxins that poison drinking water; furniture polishes contain napthas and mineral spirits which are neurotoxins; formaldehyde, which is also found in furniture polish and other cleaners, is a known carcinogen for both animals and humans; another ingredient found in furniture polish is phthalates which disrupt hormone function and can cause genetic defects in both animals and humans; and sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide, found in drain cleaners, can change the pH of the water and kill fish. There are many other "ingredients" that are harmful to the planet as well.
Switching to natural cleaners helps the environment, makes your home safer, and save money as well. Many cleaners can be made right at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here are some to try:
Homemade cleanser (similar to Soft Scrub): Combine 1 2/3 cups baking soda with 1/2 cup of liquid soap. Add 1/2 c of water and 2 Tbsp of vinegar. Stir with a fork until smooth. Pour into a squeeze bottle and keep covered. Shake well before using.
Furniture polish: Use mineral oil on a soft, clean rag. Alternatively, you can mix 3 parts olive oil with 1 part white distilled vinegar and add a few drops of natural lemon oil.
All Purpose cleaner: Dissolve 4 Tbsps baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Straight vinegar is also good for removing mildew, grease, and wax and is a good deodorizer.
Window cleaner: Use plain club soda and a coffee filter or crumpled newspaper to wipe with.
Drain cleaner: Pour ½ cup baking soda down drain, add ½ cup white vinegar, and cover the drain. Wait 15 minutes and then pour 1 gallon of hot water down the drain.
Toilet bowl cleaner: Mix ¼ cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar, pour into toilet, let set for 5 minutes, then scrub with brush.
For homemade laundry detergent, you can find 10 different "recipes" for it here.
For those of you who prefer to buy natural cleaners, try companies like: Seventh Generation, Sun & Earth, and Mia Rose.
Switching to natural cleaners helps the environment, makes your home safer, and save money as well. Many cleaners can be made right at home with just a few simple ingredients. Here are some to try:
Homemade cleanser (similar to Soft Scrub): Combine 1 2/3 cups baking soda with 1/2 cup of liquid soap. Add 1/2 c of water and 2 Tbsp of vinegar. Stir with a fork until smooth. Pour into a squeeze bottle and keep covered. Shake well before using.
Furniture polish: Use mineral oil on a soft, clean rag. Alternatively, you can mix 3 parts olive oil with 1 part white distilled vinegar and add a few drops of natural lemon oil.
All Purpose cleaner: Dissolve 4 Tbsps baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Straight vinegar is also good for removing mildew, grease, and wax and is a good deodorizer.
Window cleaner: Use plain club soda and a coffee filter or crumpled newspaper to wipe with.
Drain cleaner: Pour ½ cup baking soda down drain, add ½ cup white vinegar, and cover the drain. Wait 15 minutes and then pour 1 gallon of hot water down the drain.
Toilet bowl cleaner: Mix ¼ cup baking soda and 1 cup vinegar, pour into toilet, let set for 5 minutes, then scrub with brush.
For homemade laundry detergent, you can find 10 different "recipes" for it here.
For those of you who prefer to buy natural cleaners, try companies like: Seventh Generation, Sun & Earth, and Mia Rose.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Family Friday: Volunteer Together
It is often difficult to find time to do all the things we would like to do. Many of us would like to help others in some way, but have trouble fitting time to volunteer in. By combining quality family time with volunteering you are able to strengthen your family bond, teach your children a valuable lesson in citizenship, and help others all at the same time. Also, since you are volunteering as a group, you are going to be giving even more help than if you just volunteered on your own. Ideally, the whole family is doing the same project together, but this is also a great way to spend some one-on-one time with a family member as well. Personally, I think it is a great way to spend "date night" with my husband and it's FREE.
The first step to volunteering as a family is to decide what you will do. Get together and make a list of family interests, abilities and concerns. Brainstorm a list of activities you might be able to do that incorporate these and then get going. If you have kids who like to build forts and such, try a building project such as Habitat For Humanity. Maybe you are animal lovers, check into volunteering opportunities at the zoo or Humane Society. Do you worry about those who don't have enough to eat? Start a food drive or volunteer at a food cupboard or homeless shelter. For more ideas check out Volunteer Match, which also includes opportunities for families with younger children and PBS' Zoom into Action Family Guide to Volunteering.
Some things to consider when choosing a volunteer opportunity are the amount of time available, the frequency of the project (there are ongoing and one-time opportunities available), and the attitude of the staff toward working with children. If you are new to volunteering or you are not sure how a certain opportunity will go over, try a one day project. If you are committed to something and know it will work for your family, choose an ongoing project. Most places are going to grateful for any help you provide, but some may be concerned about safety issues or even the behavior of children and may not allow children under a certain age. Those who do allow children, may not always be friendly towards them so be sure to check that out before hand. Call places you are considering volunteering and get a feel for what is available for you to do and for their attitude and rules regarding children. Be sure everyone is in agreement before committing to something and then go ahead and do it. Once the commitment is made, be sure to follow through as the "receiving" group are now depending on you.
So whether you are helping to build houses, stock food pantry shelves, cleaning a local beach, or caring for animals; the important thing is that you are helping others and, at the same time, improving your own lives, both individually and as a family.
The first step to volunteering as a family is to decide what you will do. Get together and make a list of family interests, abilities and concerns. Brainstorm a list of activities you might be able to do that incorporate these and then get going. If you have kids who like to build forts and such, try a building project such as Habitat For Humanity. Maybe you are animal lovers, check into volunteering opportunities at the zoo or Humane Society. Do you worry about those who don't have enough to eat? Start a food drive or volunteer at a food cupboard or homeless shelter. For more ideas check out Volunteer Match, which also includes opportunities for families with younger children and PBS' Zoom into Action Family Guide to Volunteering.
Some things to consider when choosing a volunteer opportunity are the amount of time available, the frequency of the project (there are ongoing and one-time opportunities available), and the attitude of the staff toward working with children. If you are new to volunteering or you are not sure how a certain opportunity will go over, try a one day project. If you are committed to something and know it will work for your family, choose an ongoing project. Most places are going to grateful for any help you provide, but some may be concerned about safety issues or even the behavior of children and may not allow children under a certain age. Those who do allow children, may not always be friendly towards them so be sure to check that out before hand. Call places you are considering volunteering and get a feel for what is available for you to do and for their attitude and rules regarding children. Be sure everyone is in agreement before committing to something and then go ahead and do it. Once the commitment is made, be sure to follow through as the "receiving" group are now depending on you.
So whether you are helping to build houses, stock food pantry shelves, cleaning a local beach, or caring for animals; the important thing is that you are helping others and, at the same time, improving your own lives, both individually and as a family.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
This Week Thursday
Freebies
-Playtex Nurser Drop Ins System
-sample of Bertolli's Premium Pasta Sauce
-sample of Degree deodorant (do not need to be a Sam's Club member)
-Kotex samples
Giveaways
-An Ordinary Life is giving away a Rose Petal Cottage set including the cottage, washing machine, kitchen sink, and veggie set.
-Sage and Savvy is giving away Baby Bambu crib blankets.
-Financial Learn is giving away a $10 gift card to Amazon.com
-Katydid and Kid are giving away a hand-woven market basket made in Ghana, from the Bamboula, LTD shop.
-Mommies with Cents is giving away (4) $20 gift cards to Save-A-Lot.
-One House Schoolroom is giving away 2 books and a $5 Starbucks gift card.
-Surviving the Stores-Living Frugally is giving away an adorable Disney Dumbo costume.
-Handbag Planet is getting ready to launch their website and will be giving away 24 handbags in 24 hours.
What Others Are Saying
-Thrifty and Chic Mom tells how to put together a "Sanity Saver" box for in the vehicle.
-Martha Stewart (yes, THE Martha Stewart) blogs about her honeybees. A great read that really helps you appreciate bees more.
-A Daily Dose of Toni is sharing her expereinces and favorite bikes from Bikes, Blues, and BBQ.
-Playtex Nurser Drop Ins System
-sample of Bertolli's Premium Pasta Sauce
-sample of Degree deodorant (do not need to be a Sam's Club member)
-Kotex samples
Giveaways
-An Ordinary Life is giving away a Rose Petal Cottage set including the cottage, washing machine, kitchen sink, and veggie set.
-Sage and Savvy is giving away Baby Bambu crib blankets.
-Financial Learn is giving away a $10 gift card to Amazon.com
-Katydid and Kid are giving away a hand-woven market basket made in Ghana, from the Bamboula, LTD shop.
-Mommies with Cents is giving away (4) $20 gift cards to Save-A-Lot.
-One House Schoolroom is giving away 2 books and a $5 Starbucks gift card.
-Surviving the Stores-Living Frugally is giving away an adorable Disney Dumbo costume.
-Handbag Planet is getting ready to launch their website and will be giving away 24 handbags in 24 hours.
What Others Are Saying
-Thrifty and Chic Mom tells how to put together a "Sanity Saver" box for in the vehicle.
-Martha Stewart (yes, THE Martha Stewart) blogs about her honeybees. A great read that really helps you appreciate bees more.
-A Daily Dose of Toni is sharing her expereinces and favorite bikes from Bikes, Blues, and BBQ.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Wellness Wednesday: Walking
We all know we should exercise, but many of us feel we do not have the time or we simply do not like exercising. One easy form of exercise, and one that can usually fit pretty easily into our lives, is walking. Some of the many benefits of exercise are: weight-loss, improved circulation and heart health, reduced risk of illness, and reduced risk of certain cancers. Now we just need to realize that we NEED to take care of ourselves, especially if we have others who rely on us to care for them.
As with any diet or exercise program, it is recommended that you check with your doctor first, especially if you have other health issues or symptoms. If you are not a regular exerciser and are looking to ease into it, the Mayo Clinic has a 10 week "ease into walking" plan. Basically, you walk for 15 minutes on two days the first week; walk for 15 minutes on three days in week 2; week 3 calls for increasing the walking time to 20 minutes on 3 days; week 4 also increases the time by another 5 minutes bringing it to 25 minutes on 3 days; weeks 5 and 6 increase the time to 30 minutes on 3 days; weeks 7 and 8 stay at 30 minutes, but increase the number of days to 4; and weeks 9 and 10 also stay at 30 minutes, but increase the days to 5. The times do not include warm up and cool down.
Some other tips I have:
-Find a friend to walk with or turn it into a family fitness activity and make them family walks.
-Get a GOOD pair of walking shoes. If your feet hurt, you won't want to walk. These do not need to be expensive, but should be comfortable and provide the right support to your feet and ankles. Here is a website for help in finding the right shoes.
-Stay hydrated. Drink some water before your walk and plenty afterwards. If you do not care the taste of water, there are lots of powder packets you can mix into it to improve the taste. Just remember the powders often have sugar though so be careful what you choose.
-Carry handweights and/or wear ankle weights to intensify the workout.
-Have an indoor location to walk in during inclement weather. Some schools allow walkers to walk the halls after school hours and many malls open early to accomodate walkers.
-Buy a pedometer and wear it for motivation.
-Still can't fit walking in? Try adding just a few steps at a time to your daily routine:
-Instead of using remotes (tv, DVD player, car starters, etc), walk to whatever it is and turn it on/off/change it manually.
-Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you have to go more than 3-4 floors, climb the first few flights and then take the elevator for the rest.
-Do not take the closest parking spot. Park as far as (safely) possible and walk the extra distance.
-Use a pedometer everyday. Strive to increase your steps day to day.
Personally, I find walking the most enjoyable of all exercise. It is a great "social" exercise, family activity, or solo exercise; it is whatever you need it to be. I have enjoyed walking my kids to festivals, chatting with a friend as we walk our babies, as well as peaceful nature walks by myself where I can reflect on life. However you choose to do it, just do it. Your body will thank you and those you care for will thank you too.
As with any diet or exercise program, it is recommended that you check with your doctor first, especially if you have other health issues or symptoms. If you are not a regular exerciser and are looking to ease into it, the Mayo Clinic has a 10 week "ease into walking" plan. Basically, you walk for 15 minutes on two days the first week; walk for 15 minutes on three days in week 2; week 3 calls for increasing the walking time to 20 minutes on 3 days; week 4 also increases the time by another 5 minutes bringing it to 25 minutes on 3 days; weeks 5 and 6 increase the time to 30 minutes on 3 days; weeks 7 and 8 stay at 30 minutes, but increase the number of days to 4; and weeks 9 and 10 also stay at 30 minutes, but increase the days to 5. The times do not include warm up and cool down.
Some other tips I have:
-Find a friend to walk with or turn it into a family fitness activity and make them family walks.
-Get a GOOD pair of walking shoes. If your feet hurt, you won't want to walk. These do not need to be expensive, but should be comfortable and provide the right support to your feet and ankles. Here is a website for help in finding the right shoes.
-Stay hydrated. Drink some water before your walk and plenty afterwards. If you do not care the taste of water, there are lots of powder packets you can mix into it to improve the taste. Just remember the powders often have sugar though so be careful what you choose.
-Carry handweights and/or wear ankle weights to intensify the workout.
-Have an indoor location to walk in during inclement weather. Some schools allow walkers to walk the halls after school hours and many malls open early to accomodate walkers.
-Buy a pedometer and wear it for motivation.
-Still can't fit walking in? Try adding just a few steps at a time to your daily routine:
-Instead of using remotes (tv, DVD player, car starters, etc), walk to whatever it is and turn it on/off/change it manually.
-Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you have to go more than 3-4 floors, climb the first few flights and then take the elevator for the rest.
-Do not take the closest parking spot. Park as far as (safely) possible and walk the extra distance.
-Use a pedometer everyday. Strive to increase your steps day to day.
Personally, I find walking the most enjoyable of all exercise. It is a great "social" exercise, family activity, or solo exercise; it is whatever you need it to be. I have enjoyed walking my kids to festivals, chatting with a friend as we walk our babies, as well as peaceful nature walks by myself where I can reflect on life. However you choose to do it, just do it. Your body will thank you and those you care for will thank you too.
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