You know what I love about this time of year?  There are so many reasons to get outdoors and enjoy a meal al fresco.  Weekends by the shore, an irresistible rooftop, outdoor concerts and plays, even movies in the park.   A picnic is the ultimate frugal family fun because you can. . .

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So, you’ve set traps to guard your adjustable thermostat that would baffle Indiana Jones. Your doors and windows are hermetically sealed, you’ve changed every bulb in the house to compact fluorescent, and you BBQ everything but oatmeal. Here are 6 things you can do to. . .

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Do you think it’s hard to plan an impressive a date on a limited budget? Well, think again! After all, creativity and thoughtfulness can’t be bought at any price. These ideas can be used whether you’re dating someone new or the same old fart for the last 20 years. You don’t even have to. . .

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Ditch the Can: Discover the Delights of Homemade Cream Soups

You probably have a repertoire of quick and easy recipes that call for condensed cream soups like cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, or cream of celery. These pantry staples have long been relied upon to add a creamy, flavorful touch to countless dishes. In fact, you might have a few cans tucked away in your cupboards right now. But have you ever taken a moment to scrutinize the ingredients listed on the can? Prepare to be surprised.

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Perfectly Prepared Dried Beans

In the realm of frugal foodie favorites, beans reign supreme. These humble legumes possess an incredible combination of qualities: they're easy to work with, budget-friendly, packed with nutrition, and their taste adapts to a multitude of culinary creations. From soups and stews to salads and spreads, beans have earned their reputation as culinary rock stars. However, despite their many virtues, are you truly harnessing the full potential of beans in your kitchen?

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The Art of Homemade Nut Butters

Nut and seed butters have been receiving a well-deserved spotlight in the world of nutrition, as experts extol their abundance of health benefits. The nutritional value alone makes them a positive and pleasurable addition to any eating plan. However, there's a catch - the price. But not for us Divas!  Say goodbye to pricey store-bought jars and embrace the satisfaction of homemade nut butters that are as nutritious as they are delicious. Prepare to embark on a flavorful and cost effective journey.

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Spaghetti Squash – The Pasta Proxy from Produce

Imagine a vegetable that effortlessly transforms into long, tender strands, reminiscent of everyone's beloved pasta dish. Enter spaghetti squash – nature's gift to guilt-free indulgence.But the benefits don't end there. Not only is spaghetti squash a guilt-free alternative, but it's also incredibly easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and impressively versatile. Its culinary possibilities are boundless, making it a kitchen staple you'll quickly fall in love with.

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Streamline Your Mornings: DIY Frozen Smoothie Packs

Picture this: all the ingredients for a delicious, nutritious smoothie meticulously prepped, perfectly portioned, and conveniently frozen in a handy baggie; all you need to do is blend the contents of the smoothie pack with your choice of liquid, and voila!! A ready-to-enjoy smoothie awaits you. But it's not just about convenience; making your own frozen smoothie packs also offers unbeatable affordability.

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Unleash Your Inner Yogurt Guru: Homemade Crock Pot Yogurt

Transforming humble milk into creamy, tangy yogurt requires just two ingredients: milk and a live culture of yogurt bacteria which can be found at any local grocery store. That's right – no mysterious additives or preservatives. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through the foolproof steps of crafting your very own crock pot yogurt, from the right milk to the perfect yogurt starter to ensure your yogurt-making journey is a resounding success.

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