The present week has been a bit boring, for lack of a gentler term. In fact, it’s been downright forgettable, but that’s often the case when rates have been on a big trip and are weighing their options for the next move ahead of a key piece of data. There was some small chance that this week’s Treasury auctions would act as a bit of an opening act for Thursday’s big show (CPI), but today’s 10yr auction didn’t produce a measurable reaction. Intraday momentum was weaker, but only after opening at stronger levels. Combine that with the slow pace of selling and Wednesday is yet another day that fits the “sideways and narrower ahead of CPI” narrative.
09:33 AM
Modest gains overnight as European yields hold a ceiling. 10yr down 2.6bps. MBS up 5 ticks (.16).
10:47 AM
Well off highs with slow, steady selling since 9:30am. MBS still up 3 ticks (0.09) but down an eighth from highs. 10yr yield down 0.4bps at 4.011.
03:20 PM
Weaker through mid-day and leveling off now. MBS down 2 ticks (0.06). 10yr up 1.7bps at 4.032.
Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.
Inside: Looking for delicious, budget-friendly meals? Look no further! This guide has 100+ delicious and frugal recipes that will help you stick to your food budget.
When it comes to keeping your grocery budget in check, meal planning is a powerful tool. It can simplify your life, save you precious time, and stretch your dollars further.
You don’t always need pricey ingredients to whip up something delicious. Creating frugal meals doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor.
Sometimes, a frugal meal could mean something cheaper but equally, if not more, delicious than takeout! The key to this art is using simple, inexpensive ingredients, being creative in their application, and not shying away from condiments, herbs, and spices that can elevate your dish.
Remember, eating frugally is not just cost-effective but also simple and stress-free, utilizing common kitchen staples, and easy-to-locate items.
Join me on my mission to make frugal meals that are adored by my family and my thrifty self appreciates.
Frugal Breakfast Ideas:
A frugal breakfast should not equate to boring. Here are a few ways to start your day off right without stressing your wallet:
Waffles/Pancakes: These could be made with basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and baking powder. Top with peanut butter or dust of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor!
Eggs: Cooked to your preference, be it fried, boiled, or scrambled, they are not only easy on the pocket but also a rich source of protein.
Oatmeal: Buy oats in bulk and pair them with over-ripe bananas, pumpkin butter, or a sprinkle of brown sugar. It’s a hearty and filling for just about anyone.
Muffins: Basic muffin ingredients include flour, eggs, and baking powder. For an element of surprise, add in nuts, blueberries, or mashed bananas.
French Toast: With eggs, cinnamon, and loaves of French bread, you can whip up a scrumptious breakfast.
Homemade Bread/Toast: If you’re up to the task, making your own bread could be a money-saving option. This is something I do with sourdough bread. Pair the fresh bread with either sweet or savory toppings.
Omelets: Eggs are a cheap source of protein. Whip up an omelet and serve it with your choice of inexpensive veggies.
Homemade Biscuits: Biscuits are a great addition to any frugal breakfast, with just “milk” and flour ingredients. Pair them with a little meat or enjoy them in butter. Just like my great Aunt Marie made at the ranch.
Choose Spice for Breakfast: This recipe for Mexican baked eggs uses budget friendly canned beans and eggs as a protein source. It’s super simple to make in less than 30 minutes, with eggs baked in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce with black beans, poblanos, and corn. Serve with plenty of corn tortillas for a super satisfying meal.
Frugal Lunch Ideas:
Lunch should be something to look forward to, even if you’re on a tight budget. Here are frugal lunch ideas that keep your tummy and your wallet happy.
Salad: A salad is an excellent choice for a frugal lunch, it’s both cost-effective and healthy. Based on what’s available in your fridge, you can combine different vegetables, proteins, and dressings to create a filling and tasty meal every day.
Sandwiches: The humble sandwich can be as frugal or as lavish as you like. Tuna, grilled cheese, peanut butter, and jelly, ham… you name it, sandwiches offer a great variety.
Homemade Soup: Consider creamy potato soup, creamy vegetable soup, or even curried cauliflower soup. They can be light yet fulfilling, and the ingredients are reasonably priced.
Toast Pizza: Save money by using toast as your pizza base, add what you have in the fridge, top it off with cheese, and cook it under the grill or in the oven.
Baked Potatoes: A toasty baked potato with butter is a delightful, inexpensive lunch. Top it up with fillings such as cheese or broccoli.
Remember, lunch doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Use what you have at home for a more sustainable, economical, and satisfying meal.
Frugal Dinner Ideas:
Dinner is the time when families come together, share their day, and unite over food. There’s a common misconception that frugal foods are bland and monotonous. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make dinner delicious and satisfying.
Spaghetti: Who knew that the ultimate comfort food could be so cheap? Combine spaghetti with homemade tomato sauce or cheese, add your favorite seasonings, and voila! You have a delicious meal.
Baked potatoes: Fully customizable and super simple to be a dinner game-changer. Top them with cheese, sour cream, or any other leftovers like chili!
Stir Fry: This is a perfect way to use up any veggies you have. Throw in some meat if you have it, cook with rice and tasty sauce, and your stir fry is ready!
Tacos: Pick up tortillas, get ground beef, or use dried beans, lettuce, and salsa, and there you have your Taco night. You can also swap out the beef for beans, and it’ll still taste delightful.
Breakfast for Dinner: Who said breakfast foods are only for mornings? Whip up scrambled eggs, toast, or pancakes, and enjoy a breakfast-style dinner!
Creating a delicious, nutritious, and frugal dinner can be easier than you might think. It’s all about making the most out of the resources you have, every day.
Recipe Breakdown : Variety Of Frugal Meals
Satisfying Soup & Salad Recipes on a Shoestring
When it comes to frugality, nothing beats the soup and salad combination. These meals are not only hearty and satisfying but also easy on your wallet. With just a few ingredients, these recipes will bring variety and nutrition to your kitchen without putting a strain on your wallet.
Here are a few of our favorite frugal soup and salad recipes:
The Best Chicken Soup Recipe: Simplicity meets flavor without breaking the bank. Utilizing affordable ingredients and leftover chicken, this soup is a testament to how economical choices can still yield rich, comforting results.
Cauliflower and Bacon Soup:
Instant Pot Three Sisters Soup: A blend of corn, beans, and squash.
Root Vegetable Soup: Healthy, comforting, and made with only a few simple and inexpensive ingredients! It’s prepared with veggies like carrots, parsnips, rutabaga, and potatoes simmered in a savory broth.
Healthy Roast Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup: Winter favorite loaded with nutrients.
Instant Pot Cabbage Roll Soup: Comfort food at its best.
Smoky Black Bean Soup: Protein packed, tasty, and hearty.
Hearty Lentil Soup: Healthy and will keep you warm during the winter! It’s made with only a few ingredients and requires no special equipment. This soup is made with lentils, veggies, and spices simmered in a savory tomato broth.
Vegan Coconut Curry Lentil Soup: Exotic, aromatic, and down-right delicious.
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe: Classic soup, ready in no time.
Vegetable Barley Soup: With protein-rich chickpeas, cabbage, potatoes, and the twist of curry spices, this soup is easy, comforting, and delicious!
The Very Best Ham And Potato Soup With Peas: Savory, delicious and economical.
Cheap and Easy Hamburger Soup: Mouthwatering and super easy to prepare.
Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup: Originally named 45-Cent Potato Soup because that was how much it cost per serving over a decade ago! The cost has increased a bit but this hearty potato soup is still a keeper. Creamy potato soup with veggies and milk – thick, velvety, and hearty. It’s on constant rotation at our house!
Moreover, when it comes to salads, using seasonal produce, beans, or leftover veggies can be an affordable way to create nutritious meals. Add chicken, tuna, or boiled eggs for protein, or keep it simple with fresh greens and a homemade dressing.
Remember, a frugal lifestyle does not mean you have to compromise on taste or variety. It’s about being creative with what you have!
Cut Costs with these Cheap ‘n Cheerful Chicken Recipes
Dinner necessity is the mother of so many amazing chicken dinners! Plus it is an excellent protein option that can be inexpensive, especially if you seize sales or buy in bulk.
Maple Chicken & Potato Supper: This recipe turns an affordable cut of chicken and two types of potatoes into a family favorite.
One-Pot Chicken and Potatoes: Chicken thighs are cheap, add in potatoes, onions, and carrots for a hearty comfort meal.
Leftover Chicken Curry and Vegetables: Lots of recipes use leftover chicken or turkey. But this “All the Leftovers” Chicken Curry also uses your leftover vegetables. Clean out your refrigerator today!
Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup: A quick, deliciously rich, and slightly spicy meal made up of chicken, black beans, and stewed tomatoes.
Crockpot Chicken Tacos: With just 3 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, this is a lifesaver for busy nights.
Chicken Curry and Quinoa: Simple, tasty, and feels like a treat without the expense.
One Pan Baked Chicken Thigh Recipe with Green Beans and Red Potatoes: This recipe is easy and inexpensive when you grab the chicken thighs on sale! It is easy to prepare, a healthier option and a family favorite!
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas: A perfect, weeknight meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots: A value for money meal with chicken thighs – one of the cheapest chicken cuts.
One-Pan Chicken Legs with Chickpeas and Quinoa: A wholesome, naturally sweet dish with a few spices.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Taco Spaghetti: Made with pantry staples, this comforting dinner recipe is frugal and filling. Full of pasta, creamy sauce, and canned chicken, your family will be asking for seconds!
Chicken Fried Rice: Uses leftovers efficiently, add veggies, and you have a meal.
Easy Pizza Chicken Recipe: A low carb and high protein meal, especially when you use ordinary cheddar.
Remember, maximizing flavor in cheap chicken recipes often relies on using good quality, inexpensive ingredients, and cooking techniques like slow cooking or sautéing. Happy cooking!
Beautiful Beef Dishes that Benefit Your Wallet
When trying to maintain a frugal lifestyle, using affordable cuts of beef like ground beef, shin, or skirt steak can yield mouth-watering meals that don’t bust the budget. Here are a few beef recipes that are both economical and satisfying:
Ground Beef Stroganoff: A classic comfort food that is simple, quick, and incredibly hearty.
Poor Man’s Stew: An excellent choice for a filling, cheap, and tasty meal for a whole family.
Simple Hamburger Hotdish: This simple hamburger hotdish (casserole) makes delicious use of affordable and easy-to-find ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce. This is a great meal idea to feed a family.
Beef Skillet Nachos: Layer chips, ground beef, and cheese in a skillet for an easy, cost-effective meal.
Homemade Beef and Noodles: An economical-friendly classic that can serve a good number of people.
Tortellini Bake: This 4 ingredient Tortellini Bake uses common ingredients like ground beef and marinara sauce to make a satisfying and hearty meal for families!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: Across the realms of deliciousness and frugality, this casserole rings the bell.
Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup: Combining the wholesome elements of beef, macaroni, and tomatoes provides a satiating meal at an affordable cost.
Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry: Brimming with colorful vegetables and protein-rich beef, this dish is a delight to both the stomach and the wallet.
Taco Skillet: It’s the taste of tacos in a convenient and cost-friendly rice skillet.
Classic Stuffed Peppers: Filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and a zesty sauce, it’s a comfort meal that’s easy on the pocket.
Sesame-Ginger Beef: This dinner calls for an inexpensive cut of meat.
By creatively utilizing budget cuts and leftovers, you can create economical, hearty, and tasty beef dishes for yourself and your family, fostering a love for cooking while sticking to a money plan.
Money-saving Meatless Meal Marvels
When it comes to cost-saving, meatless or vegetarian dishes are a winner. Not only are they usually cost-effective, but they’re also often packed with nutrients. Here are meatless recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds, without denting your wallet:
Quinoa Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce: Use cabbage and edamame to make a balanced lunch. The peanut sauce is flavor-packed and uses pantry staples, and the quinoa is easy to swap with rice or pasta.
Vegan Lentil Curry: Packed with nutrition, this dish makes an inexpensive, protein-rich meal.
Jamaican Rice and Peas: Economical rice and beans doesn’t need to be boring. Jamaican rice and peas are easy to make in the slow cooker. This flavorful, easy recipe brings delicious Caribbean flavor to any meal as a side dish or a complete meal on its own.
Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups: Proof that vegetarian dinners can be delightfully hearty, this twist on classic lasagna is a crowd-pleaser.
Bean, Tomato, and Spinach Stew: A hearty and richly flavored dish that is low cost and satisfying.
Vegan Texas Tamale Pie: Great down-home, budget-friendly meal is perfect to whip up when you need something hearty, healthy, and filling to serve to your hungry family or friends in under an hour. Prepared with basic canned ingredients you might keep in your cupboard, this simple recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes with the groceries you have on hand.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill peppers with a delicious mixture of quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, and spices.
Eggplant Parmesan: Classic Italian dish, easy to make, and delicious to eat.
Pasta e Fagioli aka Pasta and Beans: Feed your family for pennies a bowl with pasta e fagioli. Cucina povera Italian food is the food of peasants, but it is so delicious! Only three inexpensive ingredients are needed to make this quick and easy, nutritious, one pot weeknight meal.
Potato & Zucchini Frittata: Use up your leftover veggies and whip up a quick frittata for dinner.
Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese: A classic that’s both inexpensive and palate-pleasing.
Vegetarian Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of veggies stir-fried in a savory sauce served over rice.
Spaghetti aglio e olio: This spaghetti aglio olio (with garlic and olive oil) is probably one of the most popular classic Italian pasta recipes and yet it’s so simple, budget friendly and super easy to make!
Butternut Squash Risotto: This dish, while sounding fancy, is frugal and straightforward to make.
Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese: This is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s lighter on the wallet than traditional bolognese.
Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi: A simple and quick & inexpensive recipe to make in only 20 minutes for an easy weeknight meal. Crispy gnocchi coated in a light sauce made with garlic, herbs, butter and parmesan.
Implementing meatless meals can significantly cut down on grocery bills, with the added bonus of being healthier and environmentally friendly.
So why not give these recipes a try for your next frugal feast?
Luscious Low-Budget Lunch Ideas
The midday meal can often be overlooked when planning budget-friendly meals. Don’t let lunch blow your allowance! Here are a few low-cost, lip-smacking lunch ideas:
Bean Burritos: Beans and cheese wrapped in a tortilla can be quite satisfying and light on the pocket too.
Tuna Salad Sandwiches: A classic frugal lunch option that’s rich in protein.
Egg Salad Wraps: Egg salad in a wrap is a fulfilling lunch that’s economical.
Homemade Hummus and Veggies: Prepare hummus at home and pair it with fresh veggies for a light and inexpensive lunch.
Mixed Bean Salad: Beans are a powerhouse of nutrition and offer a low-cost lunch option. Mix different beans and dress them up with herbs and spices for a flavorful lunch.
Veggie and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes: A cheesy baked potato with veggies is filling and affordable.
PB&J: Peanut butter and jelly never go out of style and are a great low-cost lunch option.
Tuna Tomato Pasta: Tuna tomato pasta is a delicious healthy and easy recipe that only takes 20 minutes to make. With just a few basic ingredients it’s budget friendly too!
Falafel Wraps: Homemade falafel is quite reasonable and can be wrapped up with pita and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal.
Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with veggies is a cheap and filling lunch idea.
Vegetable Fried Rice: Leftover rice, mixed with whatever veggies you have on hand, makes for a delectable and affordable lunch.
When your lunch is as tasty as it is affordable, you’re winning at the game of frugality. Enjoy these luscious lunch ideas without breaking the bank!
Delightful Dinner Recipes That Don’t Dig A Hole In Your Pocket
Dinner is the meal you eagerly look forward to after a long day. Unfortunately, it can also be the priciest meal of the day. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are delightful, cost-effective dinner recipes:
Sloppy Joe Pasta: A homemade mix of pantry staples for a mouth-wateringly filling, budget-friendly twist on the classic Sloppy Joe.
Easy Chilaquiles: Fresh made tortilla chips smothered in homemade salsa, chilaquiles are the best way to make a flavor-packed meal on a budget!
Cottage Pie: Make a delicious cottage pie in the instant pot pressure cooker from scratch. Ideal for using up leftovers and easy to make!
Chicken Pot Pie: Homemade and padded out with cheap, seasonal veggies, it’s a classic favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Mince & Potato Stew: Heartwarming, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and easier on the pocket.
Linguine with Clam Sauce: Using canned or jarred clams, this linguine dish is made from simple pantry ingredients that won’t break the bank. Dive into a dinner of delicious choice for yumminess.
One Pot Sausage, White Beans, and Kale: It combines flavorful sausage, rich canned tomatoes, white beans, fresh kale, and a few herbs and spices – a cupboard-friendly, inexpensive dinner option.
Tacos: They’re versatile, they’re delicious, and most importantly, they’re cheap.
Potato and Salmon Fish Cakes: Canned salmon and potatoes create a delicious, inexpensive dinner the family will love. They are super easy to make and you can freeze them, too. Even those who dislike salmon enjoy these fish cakes!
Asian-Style Chicken Noodles: This recipe uses leftover chicken and packs a lot of flavors without a lot of cost.
Pasta Arrabbiata: This inexpensive pasta dish is full of garlic, tomatoes, and spicy red pepper flakes. Simple, yet incredibly delicious.
Garlicky Spinach and White Bean Pasta: This recipe is packed with flavor thanks to a surprise, budget-friendly ingredient – tinned anchovies! Simply toss cooked pasta with spinach, white beans, and a garlicky anchovy sauce. It’s easy to throw together for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Egg Fried Rice: It’s a quick, healthy meal that anyone can cook.
Leftover Pasta Bake: Don’t waste food! Turn your leftovers into a treat with our leftover pasta bake!
Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles: A quick, healthy dinner full of veggies and flavor.
Low-cost does not mean low taste. These dinner recipes prove just that. So get cooking and start saving!
Put it in Pot and Forget It – Cheap and Easy Crockpot Creations
Using a crockpot or slow cooker can be a real lifesaver for busy individuals or families. Not only does it save time but it’s also a great way to save money by making inexpensive cuts of meat tender and flavorful.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers: Slowly simmered in marinara sauce for a frugal dinner that’s hard to beat! Just serve over pasta or polenta for an easy dinner. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious for lunches.
Crockpot Beef and Broccoli: The economical version of your favorite takeout dish.
Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup: Inexpensive, full of flavor, and so hearty!
Creamy Crockpot Chicken: Warm shredded chicken and gravy in your slow cooker for the win.
Crockpot Baked Beans: Cheaper and healthier than store-bought!
Crockpot BBQ Chicken: Sweet, tangy, and made with a handful of pantry staples.
Crockpot Lentil Soup: Super hearty, packed with nutrients, and so easy to whip up!
Slow Cooker Pot Roast: The easiest one pot meal and is an instant win for family dinner! Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Easy to prepare for weeknight meals or special occasions alike, this easy pot roast recipe is always a crowd-pleaser!
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken: Just two ingredients are required for this super versatile recipe.
Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup: Healthy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make.
Chicken Paprikas Recipe: Use chicken thighs and cauliflower which make it a super frugal meal. If you prefer you can serve it over rice instead of the cauliflower but even her kids agree that the cauliflower version is delicious.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese: Yes, even mac and cheese can be done in a crockpot! Even better try this Broccoli Mac Kielbasa Casserole.
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup: This recipe uses inexpensive and filling beans and veggies, perfect for when you’ve leftover ham.
Slow Cooker Vegan Chili: A vegan twist on this classic comfort food for those chilly days ahead makes for a healthy dinner packed with nutrients brimming with flavor!
Each of these meals will serve you without making a significant dent in your grocery budget. Enjoy the convenience and frugality that slow cooking brings!
Make It Snappy With Instant Pot Recipes
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that’s excellent for fast, delicious meals when you’re on a budget.
Instant Pot Ground Beef Enchilada Pasta: This easy dish combines a few affordable ingredients into a hearty meal that your family will love.
BBQ Beans Instant Pot Recipe: A frugal recipe that’s great as a main dish or a filler for burritos.
Easy Pizza Potatoes in the Instant Pot: A simple pairing of pizza flavors and potatoes for a wallet-friendly dish.
Air Fryer Pita Bread Pizza: Only 5 minutes and a handful of low-cost ingredients to a delicious DIY pizza.
Sweet Potato, Lentil and Chickpea Curry: This vegan instant pot recipe is full of flavor, super hearty and delicious, and extremely reasonable to make.
Mushroom Masala- Mushroom Curry: An exotic and easy-to-prepare mushroom curry that satisfies without stretching the dollars.
Chicken and Sausage Paella in the Instant Pot: Cut down cost by using sausage and chicken thighs for this easy, savory dish.
Instant Pot Tuna Casserole: Comfort on the cheap, using pantry staples.
Fast and Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice: Made using basic pantry staples and suitable for both adult and kid taste buds.
These Instant Pot ideas are not only quick and easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. They’re proof that frugal doesn’t mean boring!
Handy Kitchen Tools for Budget-Savvy Cooking
When it comes to frugal cooking, your kitchen gadgets can be your best companions. These tools can save you both time and produce restaurant-quality dishes at home for a fraction of the cost.
Many are the same as frugal home must haves!
Only rely on tools that you use regularly in order to maximize their cost. So, equip your kitchen with these practical, cost-effective tools, and enjoy a more manageable culinary journey.
FAQs: Navigate Your Approach to Cost-Efficient Eats
Eating lunch at work doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune, following these tricks can save you a lot of money:
Meal prep: Plan your meals ahead of time. Invest in a few hours during the weekend or your day off to cook large amounts and portion them out for the week ahead.
Leftovers Are Your Best Friend: Make a bit extra while cooking dinner, and voila, you’ve got lunch for the next day. A yummy, cheap, no-fuss, and no-waste solution!
Pack Your Own Snacks: Trade small shop-bought packs of snacks for a large bag or bulk-buy from a wholesale store. Divide them into small reusable containers for your daily hunger itch.
Invest in a Flask: A good quality thermos flask can keep your homemade soup or stew warm until lunchtime and it’s a lot cheaper than buying soup from a cafe.
Remember, the key is not to take complicated dinners which takes a lot of time. Rather, simple sandwiches, yogurt with fruits, homemade soup even boiled eggs can make great inexpensive lunch options. Planning ahead is key when you’re trying to eat on a budget.
There are several cheap meals you can whip up using budget-friendly ingredients. The absolute cheapest would depend on what you already have on hand in your pantry or the cost of ingredients in your locality.
Rice & Beans: This is a universally cheap and filling meal that can be flavored with some stock, onions, and spices.
Pasta with Tomato Sauce: This is a popular choice when it comes to cheap ideas. All it takes is a rigatoni of your choice, a basic tomato sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Cereal & Milk: A bowl of generic brand cereal and milk is an incredibly cheap meal. It lacks in terms of proteins and fats, but it can be a good quick fix.
Eggs on Toast: Eggs and bread are both cheap elements. Whip up scrambled eggs or make a simple boiled egg sandwich.
Potato Soup: One of the cheapest vegetables around, and they make a filling, simple potato soup.
Homemade Pizza: Using basic homemade dough and simple tomato sauce, you can add anything you have on hand to make a delicious pizza.
Remember, the cheapest dinners typically use basic pantry staples. By having a well-stocked pantry, you’ll be able to whip up a variety of low-cost dinner ideas.
A frugal meal doesn’t equate to scanty or tasteless. Here’s what defines a frugal meal:
Inexpensive Ingredients: Frugal meals predominantly use cheaper ingredients. Find plenty of cheap foods when broke (and you don’t need to be broke).
Fewer Ingredients: Meals with minimal ingredients are typically more economical. They aren’t stuffed with fancy extras, but they make up for it in hearty flavor.
Uses Pantry Staples: Rely on pantry staples like rice, dried pasta, canned goods, and dry baking ingredients.
Repurposes Leftovers: Instead of wasting ingredients incorporate leftovers in innovative ways.
Meal Prep and Batch Cooking: Cooking in bulk and freezing dinners for later can be a massive money saver, reducing waste and reducing the number of ingredients needed overall.
Limited Meat or Vegetarian: As meat is typically one of the more expensive ingredients, frugal cooking is often vegetarian or uses meat sparingly.
While frugal meals won’t always hit all these factors, if they contain a few of these aspects, you can be assured they will provide a cost-effective dining experience. A frugal meal strives to offer nutritional balance, satisfying taste, and minimal impact on your wallet.
Perfecting the Art of Frugal Cooking
Preparing budget-friendly cooking not only saves money but also reduces food waste and can create a warm, comfortable home. This is how to be frugal with food. Here are some expert tips to get you rolling:
Plan Your Meal Calendar: Plan out your menu for the week, keeping in mind what ingredients you already have.
Shop Smart: Shop for groceries with a list in hand so you don’t end up buying unnecessary items. Look out for sales, and discounts, and try to shop in bulk.
Utilize Leftovers: Don’t throw away leftovers. Repurpose them into a new meal or use them as an ingredient in another dish.
Use More Vegetables and Grains: Vegetables and grains are generally cheaper than meat and can be used to bulk out dinners.
Freeze Extras: If you cook in bulk, freeze the extra portions for a later date. This can act as a lifesaver during busy periods.
Use Cheap Cuts of Meat: Cheap cuts, such as chicken thighs, can be just as delicious as expensive ones, especially when slow-cooked.
Cook from Scratch: Convenience foods often cost a lot more than the sum of their parts.
Grow Your Own: If you have a garden, consider growing your own vegetables and herbs.
Reduce Waste: Get creative in the kitchen and use parts of food that you’d otherwise throw away.
Remember, with a bit of planning and creativity, you can prepare delicious, healthful meals without breaking the bank! It’s all about making smart choices.
Which Filling Cheap Meals are You Going to Try?
Embarking on these frugal meals can help stretch the budget while still enjoying a variety of flavorful and satisfying dishes.
Whether you are budgeting on a low income or just want to stretch your dollar further with going teens, we have given you plenty of options to eat well and healthy.
Many on this list are my personal favorites. This is how we stay on our grocery budget.
The biggest step is learning how to meal plan and stick to the menu! Now, off to move frugal living tips to save money!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
I want to share a fantastic Q&A from this past week. A reader, “Vince,” wrote in and said:
Hi Jesse. I just reread your best of 2023 post about Compounding. Well, I’m late 50s. No debt. Have stayed the course, and am retiring with 4.2m dollars and 5.5m net worth. I’m the poster child for DCA, yearly rebalancing and living below your means but enjoying life. My wife and I know we’re very fortunate.
Here’s the irony. Bernstein said ‘when you win the game, stop playing ‘ To me, that means going to a 55/45 (or even a 50/50) portfolio in perpetuity because a 3% withdrawal rate is likely all we need to keep us happy. Yet, I’m giving up some return that comes with 60/40.
Thoughts? I can afford to be more aggressive, maybe much more so, but is it worth it? Or should I just chill, rebalance annually or every 18 months, and watch the portfolio grow but a bit more slowly.
Thanks!
Vince is in an awesome situation. To add some context to his message:
I wrote back to Vince and said:
Hey Vince. Thanks for reading and for writing in. It’s fun to chat with folks like you.
First off…wow. You find yourself in a terrific position! I love those details…dca, rebalance, live below your means. Do you mind if I ask…looking back, what was your rough average career household salary? And where did that salary max out? I’m just curious.
[And now I’m coming back up here after having written the entire email…this would be a wonderful blog post Q&A, with your permission. Happy to anonymize you entirely. Let me know your thoughts?]
Yes – great Bernstein quote. I have a thought experiment that might put you at ease…
Take your current household spending needs…let’s say, $150,000 per year.
Social Security will cover some…let’s say $50,000 per year (assuming you’re US? your country might have a different social safety net)
Therefore, your portfolio needs to cover $100,000 every year.
And I’m going to assume (?) the $4.2M you mention is fully investable.
If you went 50/50 in your portfolio – roughly $2.1M in stocks, $2.1M in bonds – you’d have 21 years of annual spending in bonds. Ideally, high-grade Treasury bonds. In theory, you have 21 years of buffer before you “need” to tap into your stocks.
Do we have faith that your stocks will outpace bonds over a 21-year period? That’s now the critical question. Based on the stuff I talk about on The Best Interest, my answer is: yes, 21 years is a sufficient period for stocks to do their thing.
Next question: can/should we pull that period closer to the present? 15 years? 10 years?
60/40 –> $2.5M stocks, $1.7M bonds –> 17 years
70/30 –> $2.95M stocks, $1.25M bonds –> 12.5 years
I think you can feel good about 60/40. 17 years of bonds is a great buffer.
But should you? You’re right that, technically speaking, you’re adding more risk to your portfolio. And for what reason? To die with a larger pile of money?
It all comes back to Bernstein’s quote: what game are you playing, Vince? Have you “won?” If not, that’s fine. But ask yourself: when will that answer change? What is “winning” to you?
For example, if you have big goals for your “Excess Money,” that’s a different story. Do you want to donate $1M to the dog shelter when you die? In that case, we should separate that portion of your money from the rest of your money, and invest it differently.
But if you’re main/most important goal is, “Live comfortably forever,” and the 55/45 gets you there…great! You’ve done it.
…now I’m curious, how much return are you actually giving up in the long run by shifting down from 60/40 to 55/45?
Assume 7% annualized inflation-adjusted returns for stocks and 2% inflation-adjusted for bonds
60/40 –> 5.00% per year, or 165% inflation-adjusted growth over 20 years.
55/45 –> 4.75% per year, or 153% inflation-adjusted growth over 20 years.
Definitely a difference. But not a huge one, IMO, especially when you (specifically you) won’t define success or failure based on that ~0.25% per year annualized difference.
Alright – that’s a lot. But I hope it helps.
If Vince’s portfolio is $4.2M and his annual needs are $100,000, he’ll be entering retirement following (essentially) a “2.38% Rule.” That’s way more conservative than the classic 4% Rule.
He doesn’t need to expose himself to undo risk. 60% stocks, 55% stocks, 50% stocks…Vince will be successful in any of these portfolios. Since he has “won the game” of career financial success, he can “stop playing the game” by taking some of his chips off the table a.k.a. reducing his exposure to risk assets (stocks).
Stocks outperform bonds over long periods of time, and Vince will be able to leave his stocks untouched for decades (if he wants to).
Now, Vince did get back to me and shared some of his personal story. I want to share some of those details with you.
On his salary and investing: “I started at 35k in 1994 and ended at about 560k this year. One outlier year was about 600k. I’d bet my average was around 200k but there were so many big jumps it’s really hard to say. (I never moved jobs for a bigger salary. In fact sometimes I took less to be happier. Eventually , the money came). Also, I got married and we both worked so I’d guess 275k average over 30 years, but this may be off. As I mentioned, dca, rebalance, live below our means. Also, 95% indexing with 4 funds and occasionally buying a stock or two and holding it.
Vince’s top-end salary ($500 – $600K) is top 1% territory. His average salary ($275K) is top ~4%. Vince earned great money. But his starting salary is relatively low. Salary growth was essential for Vince’s success. The lesson: you can – and should – look for ways to increase your income over your career. It might take decades. But it makes a huge difference.
And Vince’s investing technique is…boring! Index funds, dollar-cost averaging, buy-and-hold, annual rebalance. Sound familiar?! The boring stuff, while BORING, really does work.
I’m not pulling your leg here with my articles and podcasts about boring, long-term investing. I’m serious. It works. Just look at Vince. Moving on…
On his lifestyle: “We drive old cars and jeans and t shirts are our preferred outfits. We researched our area before buying and our house that cost 350k is now worth about 1.2m. Actually, not the best 25-year return, but we’re very happy here.We want to keep living simply but comfortably. We’ve put 2 kids through college and have no debt. We love traveling but can do it rather inexpensively. In fact, we just spent a month in Portugal for a small amount. So 55/45 it is. THANK YOU!!!!!
(FYI, the housing return Vince mentioned is about 5.5% nominal / 2.7% real annual return. )
The important takeaway is Vince’s choice to drive cheaper cars and wear cheaper clothes than he otherwise could. By my math, you could buy a Corvette on a $500,000 salary. You could fly first class. You could eat caviar. But Vince is an example that wealth is what you don’t see.
“Wealth is created by a slow, steady drip of investment deposits, just like decades of waves carving a shoreline rock. Wealth is compound interest that grows slowly at first, then rapidly in the end. Wealth is what you choose not to spend money on. Wealth is quiet.”
It sounds like Vince still doing what he loves. He’s cutting costs where he can (or where he simply doesn’t care), but then spending where he wants to. That’s bimodal spending. Vince is enjoying the journey.
Vince is a success story. He’s won the game. And now, like a smart investor, he’s opting to “stop playing” by taking some of his investment risk off the table.
Thanks, Vince, for sharing your example with us.
Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, join 7500+ subscribers who read my 2-minute weekly email, where I send you links to the smartest financial content I find online every week.
-Jesse
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Inside: Looking for a creative and easy way to give money as a gift? Look no further than these Money Gift Boxes! These boxes are perfect for any occasion and can be customized to make the gift even more special.
Gone are the days of simply slipping cash into a card; let’s welcome the creative and memorable gesture of a money gift box!
A money gift box, usually filled with crisp euro or dollar bills, presents a unique, exciting, and personalized way to gift money!
Why settle for boring when you can enchant the lucky recipient with this delightful surprise?
Gifting cash doesn’t have to be impersonal or dreary.
A money gift box makes the act of giving money much more thoughtful and engaging, as it shows that you have gone the extra mile to make your gift special.
The beauty of this idea is that it can be customized to fit various occasions – birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even business events.
No matter the occasion or recipient, a money gift box is not just a gift, it’s an experience that lasts even beyond the moment the box is opened.
Choose to make your gift memorable with one of these curated money gift box ideas.
What is a Money Gift Box?
A Money Gift Box is a unique and creative way of giving money as a gift where cash, often in the form of dollar bills assembled and neatly packaged within a gift box.
These boxes are popular gifts for occasions such as weddings, Christmas, birthdays, and other celebratory events where monetary giving is customary.
Money gift ideas are a hot idea and these are unique ways to wrap your cash gifts in an enticing box, creating a true element of surprise or maybe even a puzzle!
How can I surprise my money as a gift?
Coming up with innovative ways to gift money can transform an otherwise simple and predictable present into a surprise packed with joy and excitement.
One fantastic method is the money gift box — it’s unique, elegant, and speaks volumes about your creative prowess.
The money pull box is not just an exciting twist on traditional greeting cards or money envelopes, but it also allows for personalized notes and heartfelt messages, turning a practical gift into something far more special and sentimental.
This ingenious idea is not only an impactful way to give cash but also easy to accomplish.
Remember, it’s the thought, creativity, and effort that transform money—often perceived as a last-minute and impersonal gift—into something unique, intimate, and forever memorable.
Turn that element of surprise up a notch with the money gift box!
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Why Choose a Money Gift Box?
1. You can give money in a creative way.
2. The gift can be customized according to the occasion.
3. Money is a versatile gift that can fit any budget.
4. The gift is easy to make.
5. Money can be given in many different forms, including coins, dollar bills, and more.
6. The gift can be given in various ways, such as in a card box, on a birthday cake, or in an envelope.
7. The gift can be personalized with decorations and other additions.
8. Money can be given in a memorable way.
9. The gift can be given in a way that is relevant to the event.
10. Money can be given in a way that is safe and secure.
How do you put money in a gift box?
Putting money in a gift box can be a delightful surprise for the recipient. One commonly fun method is to tape dollar bills or Euro notes end to end and roll them up tightly – even easier to use the money dispenser bag.
The rolled-up notes are then placed inside the box, with one end fed through a slit in the box and attached to a tab labeled “pull”. This allows the recipient to unravel a long coiled string of money, adding an element of surprise to the gift.
The type, amount, and currency of money can be chosen based on the occasion, whether it’s for a wedding, graduation, or birthday.
Learn how much to give for high school graduation.
Money Gift Box Ideas
Jazz up your gift-giving game with a delightful surprise: a money gift box!
This innovative yet straightforward gift is perfect for any occasion, and we bet the recipient will love it.
Perfect for anyone you value, from family to friends. It’s an excellent gift for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even anniversaries. Perfect small gift ideas!
We curated the best money gift boxes available and picked our favorites, which we can’t wait to share with you!
Money Box for Cash Gift Pull
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, fun-filled cash gift – the Money Box for Cash Gift Pull! Not your traditional presents, this creative and thrilling gift idea redefines the joy of giving.
Tug at the end, and imagine their thrill as they unfold a continuous string of dollar bills.
This money pull box adds excitement, charm, and a touch of suspense to your gift-giving occasions. It combines love, beauty, and utility, making gifting cash a delightful experience.
Expert Tip: Personalize with heartfelt written notes and be generous with the denomination of bills for a more memorable surprise.
Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser
Ditch the mundane envelopes for gifting cash and add a fun twist with the Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser. It is a gift box that turns your cash gifts into an exciting surprise, adding a layer of anticipation to your presents.
We all want a money machine, right? Sounds like a rack of money to me!
The Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser guarantees a gift-giving experience that’s both exciting and memorable.
To use it, just attach the pull-tab to the first bill and thread it through the slot on the top of the Money Machine. The card stock box is lightweight making it hassle-free to carry or send through mail.
Made in the USA, this money dispenser doesn’t include cash, providing you the flexibility to fill it with your choice of cash amount.
Pink Cash Heart Money Pull Box
Looking for a creative way to gift money? Meet the Pink Cash Pull Box – a unique money gift box designed to add a memorable twist to your gifting moments.
This DIY money pull kit allows you to roll your cash, hide it under the box filler, and insert other surprises like flowers or a gift card. Watch as your loved ones delight in pulling out a cascade of money and gifts – an unforgettable moment!
This versatile gift box features an automatic on/off string light that illuminates when the box is opened, providing an enchanting reveal. It’s suitable for multiple occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries, making it a thoughtful gift idea for your wife, husband, mother, father, or grandma.
Imagine your loved one opening this in anticipation of a small gift, only to continue pulling out surprise after surprise, ending with birthday money – a gift that perfectly blends sentiment with practicality.
Black Money Box Cash Pull
Surprise your loved ones in a uniquely thrilling way with Ribbonbonbox’s Black Money Box Cash Pull, a luxurious and unforgettable gift experience.
The black box is elegantly designed, highlighted by beautiful red soap roses and a built-in LED light for an additional extraordinary effect.
Crafted with a durable wooden board and acrylic lid, it’s designed for longevity, ensuring the surprise doesn’t fade with time.
Optimized for everyone — from life partners and best friends to parents and grandparents — it’s a compelling choice for all occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries.
Expert Tip: Add in different types of bills while filling the box, for an extra element of fun when your loved one pulls out the cash!
ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box
If you’re searching for the perfect gift that’s both exciting and wallet-friendly, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box is an excellent choice. This unique gift combines the thrill of a puzzle with the sweet success of a hidden reward, making it an unforgettable present.
The puzzle box offers a fun and challenging way to gift money or small items. Just slide the ball to the top and push the latch to open the box.
It’s ideal for teen boys, girls, and co-workers, thanks to its modern design and eye-catching colors. In fact, these are inexpensive gifs for coworkers.
But it’s more than just a gimmick – the money maze puzzle box also fosters the development of motor skills, enhances spatial awareness, and strengthens logical thinking.
To make it even more memorable, consider adding a custom message or inserting a specially chosen gift into the box.
Remember, with a touch of creativity, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box can be transformed into the greatest gift of all seasons.
Money Puzzle Box for Cash – Solve the Puzzle
Looking for a fun way to give money gifts in care packages for college students? Let me introduce you to the Money Puzzle Box!
This unique gift box adds a thrilling twist to gift-giving by turning it into a captivating adventure. As one of the best money gift box ideas, it’s not just a box, it’s a rewarding 3x3x3 maze puzzle that stores your precious present inside.
This is a clever cash holder and brain-busting puzzle in one.
Plus gives a delightful challenge to your recipient, improving their spatial awareness, motor skills, and concentration.
3D Escape Game Money Box
Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, puzzle-solving gift box experience. How, you ask?
Let me walk you through the marvel of 3D Escape Game Money Box.
Start by acquiring the wooden puzzle escape room game, which doubles up as an impressive gift box.
Upon unboxing, navigate through its various compartments designed to pose stimulating mental challenges.
Once you unravel all the mysteries, find the hidden compartment which is perfect for concealing an assortment of gifts such as jewelry, money, or even a personalized note.
Undoubtedly, this 2-in-1 gift idea holds more than meets the eye. It’s not just about the physical treasure hidden inside, but the thrilling adventure in unlocking it.
Happy Birthday Day Money Box for Cash
A happy birthday money box filled with cash makes for a unique and exciting gift.
This creative alternative to placing money in a pull-out fashion offers a colorful and festive way to surprise the birthday person.
The process is simple: dollar bills are taped end to end, rolled up, and placed in a specially designed box. The recipient then pulls a long string of money out of the box, resulting in plenty of smiles and happy surprises.
Above all, the exhilaration of pulling out a roll of cash is an unparalleled experience that makes it the best gift for friends or family who appreciate fun and creativity.
Wooden Secret Puzzle Box
The Wooden Secret Puzzle Box is an innovative and entertaining way to gift money or small presents. With an additional double lock, it creates a mentally stimulating challenge for the recipient, promoting problem-solving skills and increasing brain fitness.
This wooden keepsake box is not just a puzzle, it’s an experience.
The excitement of unlocking the secret compartment to reveal the gift inside surpasses the typical present, providing hours of entertainment. These boxes aren’t just for adults, children can also enjoy the challenge.
The process to unlock the loot requires some effort but is ultimately rewarding. Tilting the box and navigating the slider right, you’ll hit the lock— rewarding patience and logic with the much-desired gift.
Perfect to add to Easter basket ideas for girls.
Confetti Exploding Gift Box
Experience the thrill of giving and receiving with the Confetti Exploding Gift Box – it’s not just a gift; it’s a party in a box!
Imagine the surprise and laughter as the box explodes with confetti, making for a truly unforgettable gift-opening moment.
This isn’t your typical ribbon-tied gift; the box is beautifully crafted in Europe with premium quality materials, ensuring not just a surprise but also a touch of class. It’s perfect for everyone – children, adults, or even your colleagues celebrating their work anniversary.
Think about it… who wouldn’t love their face sprinkling down with confetti! This gift guarantees not just an explosion of colorful bits but, more importantly, an explosion of emotions.
Remember, this isn’t just for the recipient; bystanders will be delighted too, making your gift the talk of the party!
Brain Teaser Wooden Box with Hidden Cash
Introducing the Brain Teaser Wooden Box, an enthralling blend of puzzles, secret stash, and premium craftsmanship. This mysterious box is a fun, engaging, and stylish way to gift cash or other valuables.
Imagine the thrill of gifting a treasure chest that doubles as a mental workout. Crafted from high-quality wood, its intricate design and precise construction make it an impressive gift. Whether it’s for men, women, or puzzle enthusiasts, they will appreciate the challenge and craftsmanship.
What’s in the box? That’s part of the mystery, making it an intriguing conversation starter.
It’s more than just a puzzle; it’s a secure place to hide valuables or surprise someone with a cash gift.
With its versatility, it can also serve as a chic jewelry box or desk decor.
The journey of unlocking this box is half the fun! Whether you’re playing Santa or looking for a unique anniversary gift or boys Easter basket, the Brain Teaser Wooden Box is your exciting solution.
Secret Puzzle Box
Discover a whole new world of excitement and intrigue with the Secret Puzzle Box – an innovative way to gift money or valuable cards. Delight in the thrill of solving a complex mystery as you explore this extraordinary gift box.
Its design combines the addictive challenge of a brain teaser with the thrill of a treasure hunt. It’s perfect for adults who relish intellectually stimulating experiences.
You can safely conceal valuable possessions such as cash, jewelry, or gift cards in its lockable compartments. Nothing like sparking curiosity by keeping your gift under wraps!
Constructed with high-quality wood, it boasts an intricate design that showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Apart from being a captivating puzzle, it doubles as a unique jewelry box and conversation starter.
Cake Money Box Transparent Bags
Most of the money gift boxes come with transparent bags to load up your cash in.
However, you may need extra. These are perfect if you decide to make a DIY money gift box as well.
Why is it one of the best? Well, here are some compelling features:
The bag has a size of 3.1 x 7.5 inches, an ideal and manageable size to tuck in your cash gift.
It’s constructed from high-quality cellophane plastic; lightweight, reusable, and practically invincible against breaks or deformations.
High transparency ensures your gift is perfectly visible, adding to the anticipation and excitement.
The self-adhesive design simplifies packaging and saves you time.
Plus, it possesses excellent vapor-blocking properties, safeguarding your gift from dust and bugs.
Best for occasions like birthday parties, weddings, and family gatherings, this revolutionary gift idea will surely create unforgettable memories.
Expert Tip: You can use these bags not just for money, but also to include small treasured items or personalized notes to make your gift extra special.
How to make a money dispenser box?
All it requires is taping dollar bills end to end in a long string, rolling them, and neatly placing them inside a beautifully designed box. Add a final touch by attaching a “pull” tab to the end bill, and voila – you’ve created a delightful and unexpected gift.
Sounds easy, right? Well, it is. It just takes some practice like these money cake ideas.
Consider using this idea for occasions like birthdays, weddings, or graduation celebrations. After all, who doesn’t love the sight of cascading cash pulled from an exquisitely crafted box?
Step 1: Choose a Money Gift Box
Opt for a box with a festive allure for birthdays or celebratory events.
The box size and shape determine how much money it can hold and how smoothly it dispenses.
The design showcases your creativity and speaks volumes about the occasion.
Remember, it’s not just a gift, it’s an experience. If you want to surprise a friend, pick a box that pops with colors.
Your chosen money gift box sets the stage; make it count!
Step 2: Prepare the Money Roll
You’re onto a fun-filled step of crafting your own money dispenser box, and preparing the money roll!
This part is crucial, so follow closely.
First, gather your dollar bills. Getting new dollar bills may be a challenge, so make sure you ask your bank first.
Next, neatly insert the dollar bills in the transparency bags. Also, include a few memorable notes.
Then, tape the bills end-to-end or use the small sticky dots. Ensure to connect the bills seamlessly and cleanly to maintain the charm of the constant pull.
Once you’ve crafted a nice lengthy string of bills, begin rolling. Start from one end and maintain a tight, steady roll until it looks like a small, compact money bundle.
A quick expert tip here – if the roll seems loose or flimsy, don’t worry. Tightening it up as you go often helps achieve compactness.
Congratulations, you’re one step closer to creating an absolute hit of a gift!
Remember, the joy is in both the making and the giving! Keep up the great work, and let’s dive into the next step soon.
Step 3: Make the Boxes
This is where you incorporate the money into the box, effectively transforming it into a thrilling dispenser.
Insert your tightly wrapped roll of money into the gift box. Make sure you leave the pull the money out.
Next, you can add trinkets or other mementos to the box if you prefer.
Make sure to securely tape it, ensuring that it’s attached beautifully and strongly.
Step 4: Give Out the Boxes
Now for the fun part! Give your money gift box to the recipient or recipients.
As your friend unwraps the seemingly ordinary gift, the initial confusion transitions into pure delight as they pull out a long string of dollar bills from the box. Their bemused smile and surprised laughter truly makes the effort worthwhile.
Remember, it’s not just the monetary value of this gift that matters, but the joyful surprise and the shared happiness it brings.
Get creative with your gift-giving and make each celebration truly memorable.
Money Puzzle Gift Boxes for Cash
One of the MOST popular gifts!
This maze puzzle cube is a unique cash holder. Perfect for kids and adults, it’s a thrilling puzzle box and money maze.
Get yours now and turn gifting into an adventure!
Buy Now on Amazon
12/19/2023 07:57 pm GMT
Which Money Boxes for Gifts are your Favorite?
In conclusion, these money gift boxes are more than just vessels – they’re tangible expressions of generosity, thoughtfulness, and affection. They instill in the recipients a sense of appreciation and an overwhelming feeling of being valued.
Plus, who doesn’t like a little surprising twist with their monetary gift?
Start shopping now for these amazing money gift boxes to make your gifting experience memorable and cherished.
After all, the best gifts are not only about what you give but also how you give them. Perfect ideas for gifts for kids who have everything!
With money gift boxes, you can add that extra personal touch, making your gift more special and memorable.
Filled with surprise and delight, these money gift boxes are sure to impress and leave a lasting imprint.
So why wait? Begin your money gift box shopping now and lavish your loved ones with a gift they’ll truly cherish!
Embrace gifting in style with a money gift box! Plus these may work perfectly for a no gift Christmas!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Moms and dads love when their kids give them something with which they’ve put a lot of thought and effort. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher or friend, you’d be lucky to receive one of these DIY Christmas gifts from kids.
1. Framed family names crossword
Photo courtesy of diys.com
Instead of a normal family tree, you could have a family crossword! Made with Scrabble tiles and a picture frame, this personalized piece of work makes a house feel like a home.
Just glue Scrabble letters onto a board (cardboard works fine) covered in your choice of paper and frame it. Even if your family is still growing, it’s easy to keep adding onto the crossword of names.
2. Painted wooden cooking spoons
Photo courtesy of todaysparent.com
Every time you cook or bake and use one of these wooden spoons, you’ll think of the love that your kids put into making them for you. What’s better than a daily reminder that someone loves you? All you need is acrylic paint and wooden utensils to make these cute one-of-a-kind gifts.
3. Keyboard art
Photo courtesy of paperplateandplane.wordpress.com
It’s easy to get caught up in things and even get down on yourself as a parent. By having a short message in your room or office, you can always remember that your kids are on your side.
The best part is that these messages can be anything – “My mom is the nicest mom in the world,” “You’re the best dad ever,” or even a simple “I love you.”
4. Printed dish towels
Photo courtesy of toddlerapproved.com
Any time you dry your hands or wipe up a spill, you’ll use a colorful custom-designed hand towel that resembles your kids. These are quick to make and way better than store-bought designs.
5. Clay bowl
Photo courtesy of frogandsnailsandpuppydogtail.com
You’ll find a place for these anywhere at home or at work — holding bobby pins, paper clips, jewelry, etc. Your kids will be satisfied knowing you’re not only looking at their handiwork, but you’re using it each day.
6. Fingerprint magnets
Photo courtesy of rhythmsofplay.com
Replace the boring black magnets on your refrigerator with vibrant ones that feature the fingerprints of the kids. Parents can use these to display their children’s work from school or even art they create at home.
7. Dyed coasters
Photo courtesy of onelittleproject.com
Display these mini works of art on your coffee table for everyone to see. They’re a great conversation starter and everyone will love that your kids made them just for you.
They’re easy to create and aren’t meant to look perfect, so even the smallest children can make them without much trouble.
8. Custom wood letter
Photo courtesy of Jo-Lynne Shane
Add a new addition to your office or home decor that reminds you how much your kids love you. The best part is that there are so many options. You can write a note on them or decorate the letter with your parent’s favorite things. All you need is the letter of your choice and decorating material and you’ve got a great Christmas gift for parents.
9. Handprint key chains
Photo courtesy of grey house harbor
Replace the old key chain that you’ve had forever with this heartfelt handprint key chain. Although it’s simple to make, it’s super meaningful and fun. All you need is Shrinky Dink paper, some paint and you’re all set.
While you can’t stop time from moving forward, you can look back and think of your small child every time you use these handprint key chains. Each time you go to open your door, you’ll look down and see a tiny hand full of love.
10. Smiley plants
Photo courtesy of Parents.com
Everyone loves succulents and plants as decorations. While you could buy them at the local garden store in terra cotta pots, it’s a lot cuter and more memorable if you gift tiny succulents in hand-designed pots. You can use any kind of pot or even an empty egg carton.
All you need to do is get some paint and let the children decorate away. Once they’ve designed the pot, work together to plant succulents, and voila, you’ve got yourself a great DIY gift idea for kids. The best part about these plants is that their pots are designed uniquely for you.
11. Spa jar
Photo courtesy of Parents.com
This spa jar is a great gift that’ll remind you how much your kids appreciate everything you do, even at the end of an extremely long day. It also reminds you that every once in a while, you need to take some time to care for yourself.
Maybe have a girls night and do masks, pedicures and manicures together. You just need to get their favorite things and put them together in a mason jar, and you have a thoughtful, relaxing gift.
12. Nail polish marbled coffee mugs
Photo courtesy of DIY Candy
At one point, you may have had a beautiful matching set of china dishes you registered for when you got married. However, as your family grows your matching dishes may diminish and become replaced with DIY mugs. But, that’s OK!
Not only are these mugs adorable, but they’re also really fun and easy to make. With a couple of steps, you can have a great mug that everyone will be asking you where you got it, making it all the more special when you tell them your kids made it for you.
13. Flower art
Photo courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens
What parent doesn’t love getting fresh flowers as a gift? The only downside is they don’t last forever. Well worry no more, with this pressed flower art you never have to worry about that again. Each time you see these hand-pressed flowers that your child picked and flattened, you’ll smile.
14. Potpourri
Photo courtesy of Tidbits
Everyone loves a house that smells good. Candles can do the trick, but can also be a safety hazard. So, you can make your house smell delicious year-round with some homemade potpourri.
Pick your parents’ favorite smells and design a custom blend just for them. Not only is it a fun activity, but it’s useful and everyone will enjoy the gift for weeks to come!
DIY Christmas gifts for parents
Getting a beautifully wrapped, expensive gift for the holidays is always nice, but it’s the heartfelt, DIY projects that you’ll remember forever. These DIY gifts for kids are all easy-to-make, fun for the kids and memorable for you for years to come.
Ashley Singleton is a writer who loves following and writing about current lifestyle, DIY and home improvement trends. You can read some of her other work on the Lady Spike Media website. In her spare time, she performs stand-up comedy in Los Angeles.
As many college students will attest, regularly buying food on campus is not only expensive, but often unhealthy. Buying your lunch for 10 dollars a day at the fast food restaurants, pizza joints, and coffee shops on campus can really add up, and most have limited healthy menu options. Taking the time to plan out your lunches and pack healthy meals for college students can make a huge difference in your energy levels throughout the day. Best of all, there are easy meals for college students that you can whip up on a budget.
The following meal plan shows how to eat on a college budget and offers healthy lunch recipes and easy meals for college students. The guide features tips from Jacqueline de Grave, a former student and college athlete who is passionate about cooking and eating well on a budget, and it’s also been reviewed by Kathryn Alp, a registered dietitian.
Monday
Rice and Beans
How to eat on a college budget starts with this quick and easy meal that you can make in a big batch a night or two in advance. It’s just what you’re looking for on a busy week with back-to-back tests and papers. Choose brown rice to hike up your fiber intake and add all sorts of veggies like corn, avocado, tomatoes and peppers for even more nutrition and flavor. Black beans and kidney beans work well, but you can also try other varieties like navy, white or chickpeas. Bean dishes can be perfect healthy meals for college students—and they can be done on a college budget.
Tuesday
Super Salad
It’s time to revamp your tired bowl of greens by topping it with tasty sources of protein and fiber. In addition to your favorite fruits or vegetables, try adding chickpeas, chicken breast, canned tuna or a sliced hard-boiled egg to keep you full throughout the day as you go from class to class. Hemp hearts are another great source of protein that are delicious sprinkled on top of salads. You may even be able to throw one of these together at your cafeteria’s salad bars when you’re on the hunt for easy meals for college students.
One of de Grave’s creations is a super simple orzo pasta salad with ground turkey, veggies, and feta cheese.
“Salads don’t have to be boring,” de Grave says. “I love to have fun mixing up ingredients that vary from pasta salads, chickpea or bean salads, to chicken salad sandwiches or chicken salad on a bed of greens. As long as you are willing to get creative with your ingredients, salads can take on many shapes and flavors and be perfect for light snacks or heartier meals that are easy to carry around.”
Wednesday
Pita Pockets
Sounds like the perfect budget meal to accompany a marathon study session, right? You can also put it on your list of healthy meals for college students. Variations include marinated tofu for vegetarians or sliced chicken breast or pork chop for meat eaters. Stuff the pita with bean sprouts, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, avocado, and Greek yogurt and voila: You’ve got a quick, easy lunch that’s cheaper and healthier than an sandwich or burger at any campus fast food joint. Go ahead and get creative with your fillings.
“I sometimes replace the pita with romaine lettuce,” de Grave says. “Topping it with veggies, chicken, ground turkey, or chicken and homemade dressings is a super simple way to throw together a quick and affordable meal.”
Thursday
Egg Salad and Tuna Sandwich
How to eat on a college budget? Look no further than this mashup of two classic (and inexpensive) sandwich toppers: egg salad and tuna. You can splurge on your favorite veggie toppings. Use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt and hearty whole grain bread to make this an even healthier option.
“Carbs provide us with the only source of fuel for our brains,” Alp says. “If you eat enough high-quality carbs like whole grains, fruits and vegetables—that’s going to be your brain food,” she adds.
Friday
DIY Fresh Spring Rolls
These are a little bit more time consuming to prepare, but totally worth it if you’re looking for healthy meals for college students. Simply roll up vegetables and your favorite protein in rice paper, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. You can use any filling you like including chicken breasts, avocado, or cherry tomatoes. Tofu is a great alternative because it can be cheaper than meat and can absorb any flavor, making it very versatile.
Daily Snacks
When learning how to eat on a college budget, it’s important to curb your hunger with healthy snacks throughout the day. For a well-balanced snack, Alp recommends including a food high in protein or fiber combined with carbs from fruits or vegetables. Need a few ideas to get you going? Get started with these:
Healthy Granola Cookies
Granola-based cookies can be tailored to all taste buds. Make them sweet by adding cacao nibs and plenty of dried fruit like cranberries, blueberries, and raisins, or opt for higher protein with peanut butter, coconut flakes, slivered almonds and pumpkin seeds. Buying the dried fruit, nuts and seeds at your nearest bulk store can make them more affordable.
Overnight Oats
Make this delicious and inexpensive snack in a mason jar and leave it in your fridge overnight. You can get creative with this one and add anything from cocoa to pumpkin puree to fresh fruit and peanut butter.
Homemade White Bean Dip
Make this dip in a big batch in advance and store it in sealed containers for up to three days. Serve with pita, sliced veggies or crackers.
Ants on a Log
Nope, it’s not just for kids. This one is a fun, easy meal for college students. Top celery stalks with peanut butter and raisins the good old fashioned way or experiment with other toppings.
If eating on campus is your only option, keep these tips in mind for eating well in a pinch…
Alp says there is one key area where college students often slip up. “Drinking your calories. If I could tell everyone to quit juice, I would,” she says.
Alp suggests avoiding soda or juice because these drinks can contain added sugar that can slow you down over the course of the day. Even so-called “sports drinks” can pack a lot of sugar into just one bottle.
And when you need an extra caffeine kick, consider avoiding energy drinks or sweet coffee drinks. Not only do these drinks cost a pretty penny, many pre-made coffee drinks have more sugar than a can of soda.
“If students choose water over juice, extra sugar in their coffee, energy drinks or pop they would be cutting quite a lot of calories out of their diet,” Alp says.
Because sometimes it’s impossible to avoid the food court when you’re stuck on campus all day, Alp has some guidance for choosing the healthiest option from fast food restaurants.
“Choose tomato-based sauces over cream sauces. Choose the grilled option over the fried option. And choose the whole wheat option whenever possible,” she says.
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Working out in an apartment is tricky. While some complexes have shared fitness centers, you may not always want to leave the house to do your fitness routine. And on the other hand, trying to have some form of a gym inside your apartment is difficult and limiting when you’re renting. However, there are still plenty of home gym decor ideas that will make your workout space both beautiful and functional — even in an apartment.
Here are some ideas you can incorporate into your home gym decor.
1. Dual-function loft
Photo source: Fitness Design Group
When you’ve got only one large space to work with rather than separate rooms, you may not want to dedicate it only to either a sitting room or a gym. Here, Fitness Design Group made sure there could be both by making a distinct separation between the function of each area.
2. Spin office
Photo source: Love to Know
There’s no need to choose between having a home gym or an office — put them in the same space! You can even create a small separation between the two like Love to Know shares — placing a mat underneath your office area and a separate one for your workout area divides the room based on function.
3. Work(out) from home
Due to the recent pandemic, many people are working (and working out) from home. Working from home brings its own set of challenges, but avoiding the gym doesn’t need to become a hassle. A little side gym, connected to a home office, creates a seamless transition from work to workout at any point in the day, making your home office a functional place before, during and after work.
4. Bright and airy home gym
Photo source: On Design Interiors
No matter the location or size of your home gym, there’s no reason for it to feel dark and dingy. These bright floors and light walls, brought to life by On Design Interiors, make this small space feel large and spacious. Not to mention how simple and chic the design is — it’s not over-the-top and creates a calming environment for exercising after a long, stressful day.
5. Mirrored weight room
This simple, yet effective, basement setup shows just what you can do in a small space. This weight room isn’t very big, but a full wall of mirrors gives the illusion that it’s double the size. Even if you’re in a studio apartment, simply adding a large mirror on the wall near where you practice yoga or do a small-space workout routine will help it feel bigger.
6. Home office with modern wall designs
Gyms don’t need to look boring, especially if it’s part of the place where you live. And it doesn’t take a lot to make your home gym look modern and appealing! Simple wall tiles or decals can quickly upgrade your gym without compromising its functionality. Even in a rental like an apartment, you can use peel-and-stick tiles and wall decor that can easily be removed without damaging the walls.
7. Jungle gym
Photo source: Devon Grace Interiors
Adults aren’t the only ones that need to get their exercise in! Kids living in an apartment may feel a little limited at times without a full private yard to play in, so Devon Grace Interiors added a place for the kids to get their energy out.
The light-colored wood of the jungle gym doesn’t draw too much attention and keeps things muted, while still being a fun place for kids to play.
8. Sleek modern luxury home gym
Making your home gym feel luxurious and modern is a simple matter of color and lighting. Adding a couple of backlit mirrors and incorporating metallics are what the Infinity Design Studio recommends.
9. Traditional CrossFit
Photo source: DNLUD
This home gym by DNLUD is about as close as you can get to a typical CrossFit gym. For some, feeling like they’re at a gym rather than at home helps them get their minds into their workout. The mirrors are black gym mat flooring really gives it an out-of-home feeling.
10. Modern rustic home gym
Photo source: Gambrick
Gambrick didn’t want to detract too much from the natural landscape and kept this in mind when they designed this gym for a modern rustic cabin-stile home in the mountains of Colorado. The deep oranges give just enough color while maintaining the integrity of the outdoors—no matter where you live, your apartment doesn’t have to feel separated from its surroundings.
11. DIY basement upgrade
There are easy ways that anyone can upgrade their basement into a functioning gym. A little peel-and-stick wallpaper, mirrors and foam puzzle flooring turned a dark basement into a bright little workout space that can easily be removed if needed.
12. Spare bedroom fitness renovation
An extra bedroom is already a luxury that not everyone has and instead of turning it into a seldom-used guest room, put it to better use. Light flooring and white walls with natural wood hanging hooks to keep equipment off the floor keep this room looking chic and clean—great for when you’re in a small apartment with not much room to spare.
13. Disguised cycle home gym
You may only need one piece of equipment to get a full-body workout in. A stationary bike is perfect for requiring only a small corner—and that corner might be right in your kitchen! One Instagrammer disguised her bike in her kitchen area by placing a pretty painting and plants around it to blend it into the area.
14. Space-saving yoga grid
When you don’t have room for a full yoga studio, a wall might be all you have. Higashi Fushimi recommends that it’s time to make your storage grid look good—like it’s an intentional part of your apartment’s design, with blended metal rods that both look good and function like any other storage.
15. Vertical storage in your home gym
Choosing equipment and storage racks that work vertically rather than horizontally can keep your gym equipment from taking up too much space in your apartment. Lela of Organized-ish utilizes pegboards for small equipment storage and choose a multi-function vertical workout setup that only takes up a few feet of space in the corner.
16. Aesthetically-pleasing home gym equipment
No need for your gym equipment existing as an eyesore. In fact, it is a beautiful addition to the main area of your apartment. See how Sunny Circle Studio chose wooden multi-use wall bars to provide function and design for a high-end vibe.
17. Upgraded garage
If you’re lucky enough to have access to a garage, you can turn it into a chic and stylish workout room. Celebrity trainer Erin Oprea has even done it herself — add some peel-and-stick wallpaper and affordable vinyl flooring that mimics wood, and you’ve pretty much given yourself a whole new space!
18. Dual-function, hidden equipment home gym
A coffee table that converts into a bench press, a lamp that doubles as a dumbbell and even a foam roller vase that looks and works both like exercise equipment and living room items. Swedish storage company 24Storage invented pieces of workout equipment that aren’t stored in the traditional manner — they’re functioning pieces of your living room! See what fits best in your living room.
19. Balcony home gym
Get some fresh air by exercising on your balcony. Put your bike, treadmill or other machines outside so it doesn’t take up your indoor space. See how Merrick’s Art did with their balcony.
20. Home yoga studio
Turn any open floor space into a yoga area. Keep storage baskets, like Manduka suggests, for your mat and other equipment nearby so when it’s not in use, you can keep your items out of the way.
21. Funky and fun home gym
Don’t just hide your home gym — turn it into the main attraction! Decorilla emphasizes that having fun patterns and colors can both give you energy and help you relax — which is what your workout space should do.
22. Black on black home gym
Having an all-black gym may not feel as light and airy as one with brighter colors, but it can change your mood when you workout. It may help you get more serious, which is beneficial when you’re doing a heavyweight routine or really want to push your limits — which is why Vogue highlights it in a luxury spread.
23. Walking desk as a home gym
Make your work time (and space) the same as your workout! MyMove shows that a treadmill or stationary bike that allows you to use your computer at the same time will save you both time and space as a home workout alternative.
24. Bright home gym yoga space
Use bright colors and neutrals for a calming yoga session. Stick with natural tones and materials, as LDA Architecture & Interiors recommends, and you’ll be feeling calm and serene every time you practice.
25. Neon home gym
Give your workout space an edge with neon lighting. You can either do it all around the room and frame certain pieces, such as mirrors, with neon lights. Or you can add a motivational quote in the form of a neon sign to keep yourself going!
Functional and tasteful
Your home gym doesn’t have to look run-down or ugly. And you don’t need to get rid of it altogether, either! Using these home gym decor ideas, you can create a space that’s both beautiful and functional.
Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.
Some breakups happen for the pettiest reasons. While some might be partially reasonable but a little out-there, others are just straight up crazy and impossible—well, lots can happen when you’re in a relationship.
Here are some of the 17 pettiest reasons people in relationships break up!
1. Cheating in a Dream
One person said, “Your SO had a nightmare you cheated on them, and because of the dream, they break up with you.”
Somebody else replied with a similar story about their friendship, “Not related to a boyfriend, but my best friend at the time had a dream I killed her. She called me to tell me she’s not comfortable seeing me until she’s ready.
“I was going through a hard day, and after she called me and our conversation ended, I broke down crying. Like, what the f- life? That was so random and stung so much, I felt like a criminal. We got back to our friendship in a couple of days, but it ended officially 5 years later.”
Then the third added, “Oh, I remember my parents having a huge fight because of this. My mom was REALLY upset at my dad for like 2 days before he finally just blew up about it. This was ages ago. They have been married more or less happily for 42 years, and this kind of stuff still happens. Perpetually 19 is what I sometimes say.”
2. Sports Rivalries
“Sports rivalries. That’s definitely happened, which is hilarious,” said one.
“I put sports rivalries on the hot crazy scale. You gotta be crazy to be a fan of the Jets,” replied another.
“It happened to me. She was a Raiders fan, I was a Broncos fan. She dumped me in preseason,” added the third.
3. She Didn’t Want Dessert but Ate Half of My Pie
One user stated, “She said she didn’t want dessert but then ate half my slice of pie.”
Another one replied, “Oh, I hate when a partner does that. Grew up with three siblings. Mine is mine. Order your own.”
Then the third added in agreement, “This is a legit reason to break up. I do this all the time. I would prefer to cut ties right away if it is not acceptable!”
4. She Eats Her Peas One at a Time
Somebody shared, “She eats her peas one at a time.”
Somebody else added, “Read this to my husband. He said, ‘That is NOT a stupid reason. That would be f- annoying as s-.’ Lmao.”
5. Her Ex Didn’t Like Me
“I had a girl leave me after a week because her ex boyfriend didn’t like me. I gladly went home after hearing that,” shared somebody.
“I had a date cancel because of this. He showed my picture to his ex girlfriend and she said I was too blonde(?) for him. Whatever that means. Maybe she thought I would be dumb? We both dodged bullets,” replied another with a similar experience.
6. Not Replying Fast Enough
Somebody said, “Not replying to a text message quickly enough.”
The second person replied, “The iPhone f- people’s minds up when they let them see that ‘read’ under your message though. ‘He read it like 3 minutes ago, what is he doing that he can’t message me back OMG is he with someone else?’”
“Yeah, read receipts stole something from us as a society,” agreed the third.
7. I Didn’t Give Him My Cheese Puffs
“In fourth grade my bf Justin was demanding I share my cheese puffs. I jokingly said no. He got serious and said do it or I’ll break up with you. I made sure I only ate half and threw the other half away out of pure spite,” shared one user.
“Power move!” replied the second person.
“I hope to god any future kids I have have that f- attitude when dating. That’s a boss f- move right there,” added another.
8. I Wore Too Many Hats
“My ex wife in her divorce paperwork cited one of the reasons as ‘…he also wore too many hats.’ Like literally, I like to wear hats and she hated that,” stated somebody.
“But are you wearing one hat at a time or are you wearing a lot of hats at once?” asked somebody.
“I mean, to be fair, I own about 400 hats (mostly baseball caps) but wearing more than one at a time? I’m not that crazy,” replied the original commenter.
9. Didn’t Match a Racial Stereotype
One person shared, “Guy once broke up with me because I am not enough of a racial stereotype.”
The second person replied, “This s- [is] real!”
Then the original commenter replied, “Apparently, I did not fit his perception of a white European.”
10. He Was Obsessed With Julia Roberts
“One time I broke up with someone because they were obsessed with Julia Roberts and I just thought she was meh, every time we hung out, it was Julia Roberts this, Julia Roberts that. Sheeeeeeeesh,” shared one.
“Same with my ex but with Pamela Anderson. And he says that he’s a big Pamela Anderson fan but he couldn’t name another movie she was in besides Baywatch which makes me wonder if he’s only into her because of her big jiggly [chest],” replied the second person.
11. He Took the Wrong Turn and Argued About It
Somebody stated, “I seriously considered calling off my wedding because he took the wrong exit off the highway. When I got irritated and pointed it out (we were in a rush), he got angry with me and claimed that a city street with stop signs every block was faster than the literal f- highway going the same route.
“But it was just a symptom of the greater problem—he absolutely had to be the smartest person in the room, even if he had to lie or gaslight in order to make it happen.
“So yes, even though it would be ridiculous to call off a wedding the day before over a navigation mishap, I would have been better off (ignoring my gut cost me thousands in divorce fees, stolen cash, and therapy bills).”
“Preach girl,” said another.
12. Her Pinky Toenail Is Too Weird
“When I was dating in the nineties an acquaintance of mine broke up with a girl because ‘her pinky toenail is weird,’” shared somebody.
“My husband is weirded out with my toe nails, especially my pinky toenail. I have basically no toenails and my fingernails are very small. I get it though, it is weird to look at a person’s feet and just see dots of nails haha,” added another.
13. I’m Not Korean
One person said, “My first boyfriend, I had a crush on since 8th grade. He asked me out at the end of my junior year. We dated a year before he told me he couldn’t date me because I’m not Korean.”
The second person replied, “That ended a relationship of mine but the other way. His family was [very biased] against anyone not Korean. They never accepted me, so I backed out.”
Finally, the third added another relatively similar story, “When I lived in Vegas, My gf had an Ethiopian gf. She would only date other Ethiopian men. She was stunning, worked as a high roller dealer in Vegas and African American NBA players would ask her out and she just completely shoot them down.”
14. Because of My Horoscope Sign
“A girl I had a genuine connection with one time ghosted me because of my horoscope sign. And let me tell you, that s- hurt!!! It didn’t help that this was the first girl I ever had a genuine connection with. I was in a dark place in my life and she would check on me to make sure I was ok.
“Then one day, she reveals that she’s always had feelings for me. She completely erased every negative emotion in my body until the day she ghosted me. Then I was in a deeper hole than where I was before.
“This was years ago and while I’m completely over it, I have never met another woman who I’ve felt as strong as connection as I did with her. But I’m glad I went through what I did because it helped me develop a sense of self worth and confidence,” shared somebody.
15. She Didn’t Like Monty Python and the Holy Grail
“She didn’t find Monty Python and the Holy Grail humorous at all,” one user stated
“Valid. Hope your heart only got a scratch when she coconutted away. Although, you could say you broke up because her mother was a hamster, and her father smelt of elderberries,” replied another.
16. Because I Don’t Like Marvel Movies
Somebody said, “I had a girl breakup with me because I didn’t like Marvel movies. I watched a few with her just because I liked spending time with her. I think she noticed that I was kind of not keeping up well when she was nerding out over some stuff and then asked me straight up if I’m even into all of it. I told her it really isn’t something I’m into, but I love that she is and I just like spending time with her.
“That was not enough for her. She felt sort of betrayed like I was pretending to like something just to placate her. Maybe she was right, but I didn’t really have any bad intentions other than I liked seeing her happy.
“She insisted we watch a movie that I like. So I put on one of my favorite indy comedies (The Puffy Chair) and she hated it. It’s a very typical type of movie that I like. We didn’t even get through it. She kept complaining about how boring it was. The next night, she broke up with me over text. Maybe I should have started with Lost in Translation?”
17. My Hair Is Longer Than Theirs
“I had a few women break up with me or ghost me because my hair was longer and more well maintained than theirs. Said it was really feminine but wasn’t complaining when they were pulling it while I went down on them haha,” said one user.
“I’m a dude with long hair and it legitimately [makes women angry] that my hair always looks perfect right out of bed,” added another.
How did you find our list? Do you have similar experiences with your exes? Let us know in the comments!
And if you want more content like this, simply hit the thumbs-up button and share it with your friends and family.
Source: Reddit
10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles
Have you ever watched a movie or show and been completely lost in it because of how well an actor or actress became their character? Check out this article for a whole list of actors who were perfectly cast!
11 Vampire Movies That Will Make You Thirst for More
You know that feeling where you’re on a movie kick in a certain genre, but you seem to run out of good movies to watch? Well, if you’re down for a vampire movie or three, check out this article for the best ones out there!
10 Incredible Movies That People Rated 10 Out of 10
It’s pretty hard to replicate the experience of watching your favorite movie for the first time, but we’ve put together a list of movies that people have rated at a perfect 10/10. Next time you need a good movie to watch, check this out!
10 Famous People Who Canceled Themselves With Their Own Stupidity
We’ve all been there: you make a comment you haven’t thought through at all, and the whole room goes silent at what you’ve just said. But can you imagine doing that as a famous person—and getting canceled? Check out this list of celebrities who did just that!
13 Things You Shouldn’t Do When You’re in the US
Are you planning a trip to the US? Culture varies a lot between countries, even countries that share borders. So if you’re headed to the good old U. S. of A, here are a few pointers to make your travels go more smoothly!
When you have a new baby on the way, you may be eager to create a nursery that’s comfortable, functional, and stylish. You can drop big bucks to turn a spare room into a dream nursery. But if you’re willing to put in some elbow grease and think outside the box, you could get the job done for much less.
Here are some creative DIY nursery ideas that won’t break the bank.
Use Paint to Make a Big Impact
If home improvement shows have taught us anything, it’s that paint can be a powerful — and cheap — way to change things up. In fact, for the cost of a few gallons of nontoxic paint, a roll of painter’s tape, and drop coverings, you can completely transform any room.
The options are limited only by your imagination. Paint all four walls the same shade to create a cohesive look, or focus the color on one wall to make a real statement. Use painter’s tape to create shapes or patterns, like stripes or chevrons, that pack the same punch as wallpaper but without the mess. If you’re artistic, paint a mural with animals or popular cartoon characters. Or considering all the time your baby will spend in their crib, you may decide to spiff up the ceiling with a pop of color.
Price tag: $125 to $250 💡 Quick Tip: Need help covering the cost of a wedding, honeymoon, or new baby? A SoFi personal loan can help you fund major life events — without the high interest rates of credit cards.
Get a Soft Rug
If you have hardwood floors, a soft rug won’t just help your feet stay warm when you come in for late-night feedings. You’ll also want a cozy surface for your baby to play, and later, learn to crawl.
You can get an area rug at a local hardware or furniture store that can bring out some of the colors in your decor and provide a soft buffer between your baby and the floor.
Price tag: $200
Make Your Own Art
Blank walls are boring, but art can be expensive to buy. So why not make your own creations?
One idea: Get jumbo letters from the local craft store that spell out your baby’s name and hang them on the wall.
Or figure out the theme of the room to help you come up with other ideas. For example, you can go to the zoo with a camera and then print out pictures of animals for an animal-themed room. Or become inspired by the night sky and put up sparkly stars and a moon on the walls. You can also find cool fabric and tack it onto a canvas for a fabric panel.
Price tag: From $25
Help Baby Sleep
Having a newborn goes hand in hand with frequent wake-up calls. But there are ways you can help baby settle down after a 3 a.m. feeding or stay asleep during a mid-afternoon nap.
Blackout curtains are a great way to prevent sunlight from seeping through window coverings — and interrupting a good nap. Making a set is doable with the help of a sewing machine and a trip to the local fabric store.
Hanging a mobile above the crib can also keep your little one entranced until their eyes start to close. You can make your own with everyday household and craft supplies, like pom poms, fabric, or paper. Simply attach the items to a string or embroidery floss, attach to a lightweight frame or embroidery hoop, and hang.
Price: From $10
Get Creative With Storage
Even if you’re a minimalist, chances are your baby will require a lot of stuff: clothes, toys, diapers, pacifiers, books…you get the idea. As you’re putting together your nursery, be sure you have ample places to store all those things. Bins, boxes, shelves, and drawers can make clean-up a breeze.
Storage systems don’t have to be expensive. You can get budget-friendly ones at local discount furniture stores. Or check online or garage sales for a used piece of furniture that you can refinish or repaint.
Just remember to fasten all the furniture to the wall so that when your baby starts pulling themselves up and walking, nothing topples over on them.
Price: From $100
Recommended: 25 Tips for Buying Furniture on a Budget
How Do You Pay for a Nursery Room Renovation
DIY-ing a nursery may save you money, but you’ll still need to make room in the budget. This can be a challenge if you’re also trying to balance the cost of hospital bills, doctor’s visits, and pricey essentials like a stroller, car seat, or crib. Here are some options you may want to consider.
Personal Savings
Tapping into your savings allows you to access the cash you need right away. However, if you’re planning to take unpaid maternity leave or are budgeting for medical expenses, you may decide it makes more sense to leave your emergency fund untouched.
Credit Card
Like personal savings, a credit card lets you pay for DIY nursery supplies now. However, at the end of the month, you’ll be billed for whatever you’ve spent. It’s important to make at least a minimum payment by the due date to avoid a late fee. But to avoid paying interest entirely, you’ll need to pay off the balance in full each month.
Recommended: Tips for Using a Credit Card Responsibly
Personal Loan
Generally speaking, a personal loan can be used for virtually anything, including decorating a nursery. Interest rates are relatively low, which means that you can likely get a loan at a low rate compared to a credit card. For that reason, it might be a much better idea than putting the expenses on a credit card, which typically have higher interest rates.
A typical term length for a personal loan is anywhere from one to 10 years. Extending your repayment over multiple years could reduce your monthly payments. But keep in mind, the longer the term length, the more you’ll pay in interest over the life of your loan.
When looking for a loan, you may want to look into securing a fixed interest rate so that you can lock in your low rate over the life of your loan. 💡 Quick Tip: Some personal loan lenders can release your funds as quickly as the same day your loan is approved.
The Takeaway
When you’re expecting a new baby, you naturally want to give them the world. This may include a room they’ll be happy to call their own. Fortunately, you can get the nursery of your dreams without having to spend a lot of money. There are creative, affordable ways to create a statement, like painting the walls or ceiling a fun shade or designing an adorable mural. Not as crafty? Explore simple, inexpensive projects, like making a mobile to hang over the crib.
If much of your budget is already earmarked for baby essentials and medical bills, you may want to explore alternate ways of paying for a nursery renovation. You could draw from your personal savings, use a credit card, or explore taking out a personal loan.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Cinema has long been a source of heated debate, especially regarding films that tried too hard to be serious and ended up just seeming pretentious. With the arrival of streaming platforms, more accessible movie-making tools and an increased ability for filmmakers to challenge the norm, recent years have seen a wave of new daring cinema—acclaimed as genius by some yet widely disliked by others.
Nowhere is this disparity in opinion more apparent than with these 20 pretentious movies. So what do you think? Are there times when lines should not be crossed regarding artistic expression, or are pushing boundaries necessary? Below are the top 20 pretentious movies shared across online:
1. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
One user posted, “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. A The Holocaust and 9/11 mash-up with an autistic kid as the main character? Pure pretentious as s- Oscar bait.
“I had to read the book in high school, and the best thing I could say about it was that it provided easy pickings for annotation assignments.”
Another user added a story behind the film, “Daily reminder that the author of the book awkwardly flirted with Natalie Portman via email, thought she was as into him as he was into her, and left his wife of 10 years for her, only to be met with bemused puzzlement from Natalie.”
One user replied, “Jesus, those emails were painful to read from both of them. I can’t believe people write like that in their personal emails. He did end up dating Michelle Williams for years after his divorce, so I guess he’s got some game.”
2. Eat Pray Love
One user added, “Eat Pray Love(2010), a pretentious film based on an equally pretentious true story.”
One user replied, “So true, lol. Like I would love to just take off for a year, but unfortunately, I have to work.”
3. Crash
“Crash (2004)—simultaneously the most pretentious movie I’ve ever seen and the stupidest,” one user added.
Another user shared, “I remember seeing it when it came out and found it fairly forgettable. Then it kinda gained this reputation as ‘didn’t deserve the Oscar,’ so I watched it again recently. It tries so hard to be topical (and perhaps it was in a way), but it’s soooo over the top yet surface level at the same time with its message. There are some good performances in the movie, but that can’t save the script.”
4. The Room
One Redditor posted, “I think considering Tommy Wiseau’s intention to make a serious drama, The Room is pretentious. I know he refuted the claim that The Room was supposed to be serious. But sorry, I have severe doubts.”
One user shared, “There’s no way in h*ll that The Room was anything other than a sincere effort by Tommy to make a legitimate dark drama. Making the movie as it is, with the intention of being received as it has been, would make Tommy a comedic genius in three separate areas: writing, acting, and directing. I don’t think he is. Just like some great movies are lightning in a bottle, The Room is lightning in a bottle in the opposite direction.”
5. You People
One online user posted, “You People with Jonah Hill and Eddie Murphy. The film goes out of its way to make Jonah Hill a ‘Bumbling Clueless Overly-Cautious Woke White Guy’ and Eddie Murphy a ‘Put Everyone On The Spot Overly Proud Black Man.’ NO self-respecting person (Jonah Hill’s character) would ever dig themselves into a racial awkwardness hole as often as he does. And no self-respecting person (Eddie Murphy’s character) would go out of their way to be so defensive and make Jonah Hill’s character so uncomfortable.
“If it were purely a comedy, it would have made sense to make them both so clueless, but since it was supposed to be a ‘woke’ rom-com, then they could have done well-meaning people more credit by making Jonah Hill more discerning and Eddie Murphy more gracious. Instead, both characters just reinforced stereotypes from beginning to end.”
Another user replied, “First rom-com I watched that was completely lacking both romance and comedy. To call it a movie at all is a compliment to You People and an insult to all other movies ever created.”
6. Seven Pounds
“Seven Pounds,” shared one user.
Another Redditor replied, “Or any Will Smith bazillion Oscar Bait movies.”
Another user commented, “Collateral Beauty takes the cake for me. Even the title is pretentious.”
7. Downsizing
One Redditor posted, “Downsizing. I’m surprised nobody’s mentioned this one. I sit down thinking I’m about to watch a lighthearted comedy starring Matt Damon about people who shrink themselves and get into some hijinks. Turns out. Instead, the movie’s message (pretty early in the film, too) is, ‘You can’t shrink the problems of the world, ST*PID!’ The rest of the movie was a guilt trip about lower-class poverty and environmental issues. It seriously felt like the filmmakers were scolding me. …”
One user responded, “I came here to say this. I went to the theatre to watch it because I was excited to see it. It’s a fun movie with Matt Damon and Kristin Wiig getting shrunk down like a grown-up Honey I Shrunk the Kids.
“She was barely in it, super preachy, meandering, boring, and nothing like what was advertised. Oh, and the ending was stupid, too. I shouldn’t have bothered waiting for it, but they already had $40 or so of my money. At least the snacks were ok. Probably the best part of the movie. They realized what a mess it was and pulled a bait-and-switch with the trailers as a last-ditch effort to save it. I’m still mad if you can’t tell, lol.”
8. Now You See Me
“Now You See Me … I don’t understand how people can be impressed with ‘magic tricks’ that are only possible with special effects. B-, please! I can make f- Godzilla coming out of my pocket if I can use CGI. That s- is not impressive.
“On a side note, what a waste of opportunity when they didn’t call the second movie “Now you don’t,” stated one user.
Another user added, “Also, there were zero clues for the twist. It’s just a ‘surprise this random thing happened. Now be in awe.’”
9. Tenet
One online user shared, “Given the following definition of pretentious: ‘Trying to appear or sound more important or clever than you are’
“I’ll go for Tenet. When people think of pretentious films, they tend to list arty films. But pretension just means having an unearned sense of self-regard, and Tenet has that. It’s a film that is desperate for you to think it’s clever and profound but is ultimately hollow and not half as clever as it thinks it is.
“Edit: I just remembered the main character is literally called ‘Protagonist.’ Proper pretentious first-year film student stuff.”
One user answered, “I upvoted, even though I like Tenet because I can’t argue with your logic.”
10. Bang Bus “Episode 3”
One user posted, “Bang Bus ‘Episode 3′. The premise was already in. There was nothing new about it.”
Another replied, “Is that the one where they pick up a young woman and interview her in a s- van? I’ve only seen the first 10 minutes. I can’t believe there are sequels.”
11. My Dinner With Andre
“I love the movie, but ‘My Dinner With Andre’ is pretty pretentious and self-satirizing at the same time,” one Redditor stated.
Another user replied, “If you were out to dinner and the people at the table next to you were having that conversation, your eyes would roll right out of your head and fall on your plate.”
12. Most Woody Allen Movies
One Redditor shared, “Oof, I’m gonna get hate for this, but I feel like most Woody Allen movies are pretentious …”
Another user also posted, “When I think of pretentious movies, I think of Woody Allen b- s-. Movies about making movies about New York and how cool you have to be to be famous. F- off.”
13. Garden State
“A little obvious, but Garden State. It has all the hallmarks and takes itself way too seriously.
“That being said, it’s made with a lot of heart and ambition, and I do enjoy it, but it’s just the first thing that comes to mind—from the all-white bedroom to the shirt made out of wallpaper print to literally screaming into a void.
“Well-intentioned, entertaining, endearing but ultimately a pretentious cringe fest—sorry Zach!” posted one user.
14. Birdman
One online user posted, “I thought Birdman was pretentious on my first viewing. That being said, I was, like, 19 when I saw it, and I’m 28 now. I may need to watch it again because being pretentious kinda felt like the point of the movie.”
Another user replied, “My favourite part about Birdman was seeing Edward Norton playing himself.”
15. Rubber
“Rubber … I thought it’d be about a sentient tire blowing people up. But it kept cutting to a surrogate audience standing in a field watching the events and doing meta-commentary on film. Also, Lady in the Water … He was writing a movie critic character just to make them an ah you can kill off. Then, making the struggling writer the saviour of the world through his excellent writing and then casting YOURSELF for the role? Lol,” one user posted.
16. Wes Anderson’s Newer Films
One user posted, “Wes Anderson’s newer films are the definition. Bring back Owen to rein him in.”
Another user commented, “I came into this thread specifically to see how soon Asteroid City would come up.”
“Wes Anderson is so confident in his style at this point in his career, that someone calling his latest effort pretentiousness would just read as, ‘Oh good, you saw my film. Thank you, it was very pretentious,’” one user responded.
17. Mother!
“Mother!” shared by one Redditor.
Another user commented, “This is one movie I loved, but I can recommend it to no one.”
18. Cloud Atlas
One Redditor posted, “Cloud Atlas. That movie is the definition of smelling your gas in public. It’s just so g-d- stupid in an ‘I’m 14, and this is deep’” sort of way.”
19. Joker
“Joker. … That movie thinks it’s brighter than it is but fails to hold a consistent theme in a way that says effectively nothing. It doesn’t work as a character study either because the character is also inconsistent. It’s only really grounded by a legendary performance by Joaquin,” stated one user.
One user replied, “That’s because it’s directed by the man who did The Hangover movies, doing his best attempt at Scorsese.”
20. Tree of Life
One user shared “Tree of Life.”
One user commented, “(whispers) ‘What is life?’ (Random shot of a kid walking into the sunset.) (More whispering.) ‘What does it all mean?’ (Camera pans into a blank wall.) (Whispering so quietly that it’s barely audible) ‘What is all this?’ (Dinosaurs explode in the background).”
Another user commented, “I like the movie (it’s more a montage movie than a movie-movie), but this gave me a chuckle. It’s definitely not for everyone!”
What do you think of the movies listed above? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: Reddit.
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