10 Simple Foods That Work Hard for My Family
Simple foods can stretch your grocery budget a long way. These 10 hardworking staples are easy to keep on hand, easy to use, and help me get more meals from what I already buy.
The Best Things to Buy in October: Strategic Shopping for Fall
October is a great month to shop with a plan. From end-of-season outdoor deals and fall essentials to Halloween timing and early holiday sales, here’s what I’m watching for this month.
Gifts from the Kitchen: Turn a Thrift-Store Teacup Into a Thoughtful Gift
Create thoughtful gifts from the kitchen with homemade tea and herb blends. Learn how to combine dried herbs, package your blends, and turn simple ingredients into personal gifts that don't cost a lot.
Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Help in Northern New York
Northern New York pet owners may qualify for reduced-cost spay and neuter services through Spay-Neuter-Now. Find current prices, eligibility information, participating clinics, and application steps.
Taco Night: One Simple Way to Make Your Pantry Work Harder
Taco night doesn't have to mean a special grocery trip. See how using what you already have, making your own taco seasoning, and stretching leftovers can make your pantry work harder for your family.
New York HEAP Heating Assistance 2026–2027: Furnace Repair, Replacement & Heating Help
New York's 2026–2027 HEAP heating benefits are scheduled to open October 1. Learn about furnace and boiler repair, replacement, Clean and Tune assistance, and heating help for eligible homeowners and renters.
The Candy Foote 5: September
The September edition of The Candy Foote 5 is here! Discover a local business to support, a strategic shopping idea, a useful kitchen find, a free resource, and a simple way to give back.
Why I Look for One-Ingredient Foods When I Shop
I’ve learned that some of the most useful foods in my kitchen are also the simplest. Here’s why I look for one-ingredient foods and basic pantry staples when I shop—and how they can help stretch my grocery dollars.
How to Save Money on Prescription Medications in Northern New York
Prescription medicine can be expensive, but help may be available. Learn practical, verified ways Northern New York families can compare prices, find assistance programs, and reduce prescription costs safely.
How to Make Brown Sugar at Home With Just 2 Ingredients
Out of brown sugar? Learn how to make light or dark brown sugar at home with only granulated sugar and molasses. It is quick, easy, and ready in minutes.
Free Rabies Clinics in St. Lawrence County: Dates, Registration, and What to Bring
Protect your pets without adding another expense to your budget. Find upcoming free rabies clinics in St. Lawrence County, registration information, and what you should bring.
Help Me Stock Our Local Food Pantry Through Pampered Chef
Help me stock our local food pantry. Send any amount through Venmo, and I will use the donations to purchase pantry items and personally deliver them.
Senior Discounts: Simple Ways to Save at 55 and Beyond
At 57, I already qualify for several senior discounts—and you might, too! Find out where to save, what age qualifies, and how to make each discount work for your budget.
It’s Time to Get Back to How Our Great Grandparents Cooked
Rediscover old-fashioned kitchen skills that help you stretch your grocery budget, waste less food, use what you already have, and build a better-stocked pantry.
Free and Reduced-Price Fishing and Hunting Licenses in New York
Before paying full price for a New York fishing or hunting license, check whether your family qualifies for free or reduced-price options.
How to Choose Homeschool Curriculum Without Wasting Money
After homeschooling 12 children for more than 30 years, I learned a lot about choosing curriculum—and wasting money on programs that weren’t the right fit. Here are my best tips for choosing homeschool curriculum that works for your child, family, and budget.
Homemade Taco Seasoning: Make a Jarful for Your Pantry
I haven’t bought taco seasoning packets in years! Here’s how I mix up a jarful with pantry spices and use enough to suit my family’s taste.
How I Shop Strategically and Save Big on Groceries
I don’t shop for just one week at a time. Here’s how I use what’s in my pantry, compare prices, and buy ahead when the budget allows to stretch our grocery dollars.
September Kitchen Reset: A Complete Fall Cleaning Checklist
Give your kitchen a complete September reset with this practical fall cleaning checklist for your refrigerator, oven, pantry, cupboards, drawers, and small appliances.
How to Get Texas Roadhouse Coupons, Birthday Offers, and More
Learn how to receive Texas Roadhouse coupons, a welcome offer, birthday offers, and other promotions by joining the free VIP Club.