#bookofthemonth - Homecoming by Kate Morton

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Homecoming by Kate Morton

“Adelaide Hills, Christmas Eve, 1959: At the end of a scorching hot day, beside a creek on the grounds of the grand and mysterious mansion, a local delivery man makes a terrible discovery. A police investigation is called and the small town of Tambilla becomes embroiled in one of the most shocking and perplexing murder cases in the history of South Australia.

Sixty years later, Jess is a journalist in search of a story. Having lived and worked in London for almost twenty years, she now finds herself laid off from her full-time job and struggling to make ends meet. A phone call out of nowhere summons her back to Sydney, where her beloved grandmother, Nora, who raised Jess when her mother could not, has suffered a fall and been raced to the hospital.

Nora has always been a vibrant and strong presence: decisive, encouraging, young despite her years. When Jess visits her in the hospital, she is alarmed to find her grandmother frail and confused. It’s even more alarming to hear from Nora's housekeeper that Nora had been distracted in the weeks before her accident and had fallen on the steps to the attic—the one place Jess was forbidden from playing in when she was small.

At loose ends in Nora's house, Jess does some digging of her own. In Nora's bedroom, she discovers a true crime book, chronicling the police investigation into a long-buried tragedy: the Turner Family Tragedy of Christmas Eve, 1959. It is only when Jess skims through the book that she finds a shocking connection between her own family and this once-infamous crime—a crime that has never been resolved satisfactorily. And for a journalist without a story, a cold case might be the best distraction she can find…

An epic novel that spans generations, Homecoming asks what we would do for those we love, and how we protect the lies we tell. It explores the power of motherhood, the corrosive effects of tightly held secrets, and the healing nature of truth. Above all, it is a beguiling and immensely satisfying novel from one of the finest writers working today.”

How to Pull off an Amazing Surprise Party

Thursday, May 25, 2023


Surprise parties are a fantastic way to show someone just how much they mean to you. From the initial anticipation to the sudden shock and then the ensuing joy, it's an emotional rollercoaster that results in a truly memorable experience. But planning a surprise party isn't always easy, and it requires a lot of cunning, precision, and stealth. In this guide, I'll explore how to plan an amazing surprise party without giving yourself a headache.


Step 1: Device on the kind of party you want to throw
Start by considering what kind of party the guest of honor would enjoy. Is it a lavish event at a hired venue or a low-key gathering at home? Maybe it's a themed costume party, or perhaps they would love a surprise trip somewhere. Once you've decided, you can then think about the venue, date, and time.

Step 2: Gather a trusted team
Planning a surprise party is a covert operation that requires trusted confidants. Recruit a few close friends or family members to help you plan and execute the event. They can help with tasks like distracting the guest of honor, setting up the venue, and ensuring guests arrive on time and in silence.

Step 3: Compile a guest list and send the invites
Decide who to invite and ensure they know that the event is a surprise. Make it clear in your invitation that secrecy is of utmost importance. Nowadays, digital invitations are the go-to option, but make sure they're sent through a medium the guest of honor does not have access to.

Step 4: Cover your tracks
This is where technology comes in. If you're sharing a device or network with the guest of honor, remember to delete Google search history. You don't want them stumbling upon your Google searches for "how to throw a surprise party" or "party supplies near me". Go a step further and use the 'Incognito Mode' or 'Private Browsing' in your browser to prevent any history from being saved.

Step 5: Choose a decoy plan
To truly surprise your guest of honor, devise a decoy plan. This could be a "backup" event, dinner reservation, or outing that the honoree believes is the plan for the day. This ensures they are dressed appropriately and keeps them unsuspecting of the real surprise.


Step 6: Co-ordinate arrival times
Guests should arrive at least 30 minutes before the guest of honor to keep the surprise, if they are all showing up at the dame time, then it is simply not going to work as the person who you are holding the event for will become instantly suspicious and the element of surprise will be lost.

Step 7: Set up the party venue
Decorate the venue and set everything up before the guest of honor arrives. Make sure there's enough food, drink, and entertainment to keep your guests happy. You should also think about what the party boy or girl loves, so if they’re into pizza, serve that, or if they love rock music, hire a band to play their favorites, for example. This will ensure that the surprise is a pleasant one. Remember, the first impression is crucial when the guest of honor walks through the door, so make it count!

Step 8: Surprise!
The most thrilling part: the surprise! Ensure everyone knows their role – quiet and hidden as the guest of honor approaches then loud and exuberant as they walk through the door. If possible, the person who is bringing the guest of honor to the party should send a text shortly before entering so that you can avoid any false starts that could end up ruining the surprise. It’s vital you make sure you are jumping out on the right person at the right time!

Step 9: Enjoy the party
Once the surprise has been successfully executed, it's time to relax and enjoy the party. After all the meticulous planning and secrecy, take a moment to enjoy the look of surprise and joy on the guest of honor's face, then hit the dancefloor and ensure you have as much fun as possible because you, as the party planner extraordinaire, have earned it!

As you can see, planning a surprise party can be quite a task, but the resulting joy makes it worthwhile. It's all about the details and maintaining the element of surprise. Remember, the goal is to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for the guest of honor and everyone involved. And with these tips in mind, you're well on your way to pulling off an amazing surprise party. Happy planning!

The Secret to Staying Motivated (Even When You Don't Feel Like It)

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Have you ever found yourself lacking motivation to tackle the tasks on your to-do list? It's a common struggle that can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and defeated. But what if I told you that staying motivated is not only crucial to our success, but also our overall well-being? In this article, we'll dive into the science behind motivation and offer practical tips to help you stay motivated, even when you don't feel like it. From setting inspiring goals to embracing failure, we'll provide a roadmap for achieving success and living your best life. So, let's get started!,

Understanding Motivation
To truly understand motivation, it's important to recognize that it is a complex state of mind that is influenced by a wide variety of internal and external factors. These factors can include everything from our biological makeup to our environment, relationships, and experiences. In order to cultivate and maintain motivation, it's essential to identify what truly inspires and drives us.

One effective strategy for staying motivated is to set goals that inspire us. When we have a clear vision of what we want to achieve and a plan for getting there, we are more likely to stay focused and energized. However, not all goals are created equal. In order to truly inspire us, goals should be meaningful, challenging, and aligned with our values and passions.

When setting goals, it's also important to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. This not only makes them more feasible to achieve, but also allows us to track our progress and celebrate our successes along the way. Additionally, it can be helpful to establish a support system of friends, family, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and accountability.

Ultimately, understanding motivation is about paying attention to our own unique needs and drivers. By setting inspiring goals and cultivating supportive relationships, we can stay motivated and achieve our dreams, even during the most challenging times.,

Setting Goals that Inspire
When it comes to setting goals, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the grandness of our aspirations. However, we can actually hinder our motivation by setting unrealistic or unattainable goals. Instead, it's important to set goals that inspire us and push us to improve, while also being able to realistically achieve them. This can mean breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps, or setting specific, measurable, and achievable targets. By setting inspiring goals that we are capable of achieving, we can maintain our enthusiasm and motivation throughout the process.

In addition to setting inspiring goals, cultivating a supportive environment can also help us stay motivated. Having individuals in our lives who encourage us and hold us accountable can make a world of difference. This can mean teaming up with a workout buddy or finding a mentor to provide guidance and support. The right support system can not only lift us up when we are feeling defeated, but can also challenge us to strive for greater success.

Creating a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive environment and setting inspiring goals go hand-in-hand in maintaining motivation. When we surround ourselves with individuals who believe in us and set goals that excite us, we can tap into our deepest potential and achieve even our loftiest dreams.,

Having a supportive environment can make all the difference when it comes to staying motivated. It's important to have people in our lives who encourage us, hold us accountable, and challenge us to strive for greatness. This can mean finding a workout buddy or a mentor who can offer guidance and support. When we surround ourselves with individuals who believe in us and set goals that excite us, we can tap into our deepest potential and achieve even our loftiest dreams.

In addition to having a support system, breaking down tasks into manageable steps can also help us stay motivated. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks, we can build momentum and feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. This combination of a supportive environment and manageable tasks can keep us motivated and on track towards achieving our goals.

Breaking Down Tasks into Manageable Steps
It's easy to feel overwhelmed by a goal that seems too big to tackle. When we're faced with a daunting task, it's tempting to put it off or avoid it altogether. However, breaking down that goal into smaller, more manageable steps can help us stay motivated and focused.

By focusing on one small step at a time, we can build momentum and feel a sense of accomplishment along the way. This builds confidence and helps to keep us motivated to push forward.

For example, if you're trying to write a book, the idea of writing an entire novel can be intimidating. But if you break it down into smaller tasks, such as writing a certain number of words each day or completing one chapter at a time, it becomes more manageable.

Having a supportive environment and breaking down tasks into smaller steps work hand-in-hand to keep us motivated. By achieving small wins along the way, we can celebrate our progress and stay motivated to work towards our larger goals.

Celebrating Small Wins
Another key to staying motivated is celebrating small wins. When we set large goals for ourselves, it's easy to become overwhelmed and discouraged when progress seems slow. By breaking down those goals into smaller tasks and celebrating each step along the way, we can maintain a positive attitude and feel a sense of accomplishment.

For example, if you're trying to learn a new skill, such as playing an instrument or a sport, it can be frustrating to feel like you're not improving quickly enough. However, by focusing on small victories, such as mastering a particular technique or hitting a personal best, you can celebrate your progress and stay motivated to continue practicing and improving.

Celebrating small wins not only helps us stay motivated, but it also boosts our confidence and reinforces positive habits. By recognizing the progress we've made, we're more likely to stay committed to our goals and push through any obstacles or setbacks.

Embracing Failure as a Stepping Stone to Success
No one enjoys failing. It's an uncomfortable feeling that can leave us questioning our abilities and our worth. However, failure is an inevitable part of the learning process, and it's essential to embrace it as a stepping stone to success.

When we fail, we have an opportunity to learn from our mistakes and make adjustments for the future. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, we can use that experience to grow and improve. We can analyze what didn't work and figure out a new approach to achieve our goals.

Moreover, failure can also motivate us to work even harder. When we experience setbacks, it's easy to become discouraged and give up. But those who are successful know that failure is just a temporary setback. It's a challenge to be overcome, and it requires perseverance and determination to keep going.

Embracing failure requires a shift in mindset, but it can be incredibly beneficial in the long run. When we accept that failure is a natural part of the process, we're more resilient and better equipped to handle any obstacles that come our way. We learn to take risks and push ourselves out of our comfort zones, knowing that even if we fail, we'll learn from the experience and come back stronger.

By learning how to bounce back from setbacks and use them as opportunities for growth, we can stay motivated and achieve our goals.

Staying motivated is not always easy, but it's essential if we want to achieve our goals and create a fulfilling life. By understanding the science behind motivation, setting inspiring goals, creating a supportive environment, breaking down tasks into manageable steps, celebrating small wins, and embracing failure, we can stay motivated even when we don't feel like it. Remember, motivation is a process, not a constant state. So, take action today and start living your best life. As Aristotle once said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit."

How to Make a $100 Extra a Week - Reselling Apps

Monday, May 22, 2023

If you read this post you know that we are kicking off series and trying to make us a little more money. I posted this video about how I made $210 in one week using reselling apps. Reselling apps are just as they said - a place where you can sell things. It's simpler than ever to sell your old stuff online, whether you're trying to clean your entire house or just a few items that you no longer need. It's simpler than ever to earn money from things you already own thanks to apps and websites that specialise in everything from clothes and furniture to jewellery and even broken gadgets.There is not of places you can sell things, some more specialized, but most are free. 

The apps I have tested and websites for reselling items and these are 3 that I have tested out for 30 days: 
Best for selling everything without fees: Facebook Marketplace
Best for selling handmade and vintage items: Etsy
Best for selling clothing: Poshmark


Facebook Marketplace first launched in 2016, and the e-commerce and resale platform is available to anyone with an Facebook account. Posting is super simple, you take a photo, provide short description, and you can list. You can also join your local group and sell to even further audience.
The downside of facebook marketplace is that you get a ton of messages (mostly "is this available") and you have to dedicate some time to answer.  I listed 15 items from cleaning my closet out, all listed for $20 or less. In first week I sold $155 and $45 in week number two, $0 in week 3 and $15 in week 4. 

Poshmark is a social commerce marketplace where users can buy and sell new and secondhand fashion, home goods, and electronics.Poshmark now operates in the United States, Canada, Australia, and India. The process is fairly simple, you can create a free account, take photos and post with descriptions and its free to list. When you sell an item the buyer will have to pay shipping, and Poshmark provides you with a label for shipping.
The downside to poshmark is that the commissions on sales are fairly high and since poshmark is a social platform. Most sellers have to be at least somewhat active on the platform to see more sales. I listed 15 items, and in first 3 weeks I didn't sell anything but in week 4 I sold $55.

Etsy was first founded in 2005 as a platform for selling vintage items, craft supplies and handmade goods. The process of setting up and Etsy store is fairly simple but can be time consuming. The process of posting items to sell is fairly simple tho, and once you do a few its fairly easy. The downside of Etsy is that Etsy sellers incur: a listing fee, a payment processing fee and a shipping fee which can add up. I listed 5 items on Etsy and first 3 weeks I had no sales but in week 4, I sold $20 worth of items.

Few tips and tricks I have learned.
Good pictures (good lighting, white background) do better.
Listing details help - size, measurements if you have them, color etc. also helps
Use promotion tools available within Etsy and Poshmark (share to social media).
Do a little research, especially when it comes to pricing. All the reselling apps are very saturated so you wanna be competitive.  

These are great options if you have things you want to get rid of, and if you have a talent to create items you can sell.

Get Rid of Stress for Good with These Surprising Solutions

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Do you ever feel like stress has taken over your life? It's a common feeling, especially in our fast-paced world where we're constantly bombarded with demands and deadlines. But what if we told you that you we could help deal with stress and feel better? That's right - with these surprising solutions, you can take back control and reduce stress levels once and for all. From meditation to self-care, we've got you covered. We'll explore the most effective ways to tackle stress head-on so you can live a happier, healthier life. Are you ready to say goodbye to stress? Let's get started.


Meditation: The Surprising Stress-Reliever
One of the most effective ways to reduce stress is through meditation. This ancient practice has been used for centuries and has been proven to have numerous health benefits. When we meditate, we focus on the present moment and let go of any thoughts or worries that may be causing us stress. By doing this, we calm our minds and create a sense of peace and tranquility that can last long after the meditation session is over.
The best part about meditation is that it doesn't require any special equipment or training. All you need is a quiet space, a comfortable seat, and a few minutes to yourself. There are many different types of meditation, from guided meditations to mindfulness meditation, so you can choose the style that works best for you.

Incorporating meditation into your daily routine can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. It can reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, increase focus and productivity, and even boost your immune system. So why not give it a try?


Working Out: More Than Just Physical Benefits
Exercise is often touted as a way to stay physically fit, but did you know that it can also have a significant impact on your mental health? Regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels. It can also be a great way to get rid of any pent-up tension or frustration that may be causing you stress.

The key to making exercise an effective stress-reliever is to find a type of workout that you enjoy. Whether it's running, yoga, or weightlifting, there's an exercise out there for everyone. By incorporating exercise into your daily routine, you'll not only be taking care of your physical health, but also your mental health. Plus, the endorphins released during exercise can create a natural high that can last for hours.
So the next time you're feeling stressed out, try lacing up your sneakers and going for a run or a walk. Your body and mind will thank you.

By incorporating exercise into your life, you can not only improve your physical health but also your mental health. So the next time you're feeling stressed out, consider lacing up your sneakers and going for a run or signing up for a yoga class. Your body and mind will thank you.

Get Outside: The Healing Power of Nature
Spending time in nature has numerous benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that being in natural environments can lower cortisol levels, which in turn can reduce stress. Whether it's a walk in the park or hiking a trail, being outside can help clear the mind and calm the body.
One way to incorporate nature into your routine is to take a break and step outside during the workday. Even just a few minutes of fresh air and sunshine can make a difference. Another option is to plan outdoor activities on the weekends, such as picnics, gardening, or exploring a new park.

As you make time for nature in your life, remember to be present in the moment and focus on the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Appreciating the beauty of nature can help shift your perspective and bring a sense of peace and relaxation.

By taking advantage of the healing power of nature, you can elevate your mood and reduce stress. Incorporating nature into your routine is just one way to take care of your mental health. 

Yoga: The Mind-Body Connection
As we continue to focus on stress-relief, it's important to recognize the impact that stress can have on both our minds and bodies. Yoga has long been hailed as a powerful practice for creating a mind-body connection, which can help to alleviate stress and anxiety. By focusing on breath and movement, yoga can help to release tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Making time for yoga in your routine can be a valuable form of self-care, helping you to prioritize your mental health. By bringing awareness to your body and breath, you can create a sense of calm and cultivate a deeper sense of mindfulness. This can help to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.
In addition to the physical benefits, yoga can also help to improve mental clarity and focus. By taking time to connect with your body, you may find that you're able to approach challenges and stressors with a greater sense of ease and perspective.

By incorporating the mind-body connection of yoga into your self-care routine, you can take a proactive approach to managing stress and promoting overall wellness. Next, let's explore the importance of prioritizing your mental health with self-care practices.

Self-Care: Prioritize Your Mental Health
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. As much as we try to prioritize our daily tasks and responsibilities, it's essential to set aside time for ourselves to recharge and rejuvenate. Incorporating self-care practices into your routine can help you manage stress and promote mental wellness.

One way to prioritize your mental health is to practice mindfulness meditation. This involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. By doing so, you may feel more relaxed and centered, which can help improve your overall mood and reduce stress.

Another effective self-care practice is to engage in physical activity regularly. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Even a short walk or quick workout can help reduce tension and improve your mental clarity and focus.

In addition to these practices, it's important to take breaks throughout the day to recharge. This can mean stepping away from your desk for a few minutes to stretch, taking a mindful breathing break, or simply enjoying a cup of tea. By prioritizing self-care, you are taking an active role in managing your mental health.

In conclusion, incorporating self-care practices into your routine can help you manage stress, improve mental clarity and focus, and promote overall wellness. By making your mental health a priority, you can better manage the challenges that come your way and live a happier, healthier life.


In conclusion, stress may seem like an inevitable part of life, but it doesn't have to control your life. By incorporating these surprising stress-relieving solutions into your daily routine, such as meditation, working out, getting outside, practicing yoga, and prioritizing self-care, you can take back control over your mental and physical health. Remember, stress is not a permanent part of your life, and small changes can make a big difference in how you feel. As the saying goes, "Don't let stress take away from the quality of your life." So take the first step towards a stress-free life today, and experience the happiness and health benefits that come with it.

Top 8 Ways To Save Money

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Are you tired of feeling like you're barely making ends meet each month? Saving money can be a struggle for many of us, but it doesn't have to be that way. That's why we've put together this list of 8 money-saving hacks that will change your life. From simple ways to cut back on groceries to reducing your energy bills, we've got you covered. Whether you're saving up for a dream vacation or just trying to build up your emergency fund, these tips will help you reach your financial goals faster. So, let's dive in and start saving some serious money!


Make a budget and stick to it
One of the most effective ways to save money is to make a budget and stick to it. It might seem like an obvious tip, but many people overlook the power of a budget. By tracking your income and expenses, you can identify areas where you're overspending and make adjustments accordingly. This will help you stay on track towards your financial goals and avoid unnecessary debt.

One easy way to get started is by using a budgeting app, such as Mint or YNAB. These tools allow you to connect your bank accounts and credit cards, and automatically categorize your transactions. You can then set spending limits for each category and get alerts when you're close to reaching them. This takes the guesswork out of budgeting and makes it easy to see where your money is going.

Another tip is to review your budget regularly and make adjustments as needed. Your expenses and income can change over time, so it's important to stay flexible and make changes when necessary. For example, if you get a raise or start a new side hustle, you might be able to allocate more money towards savings or paying off debt.

By making a budget and sticking to it, you can take control of your finances and start saving money. It might require some effort and discipline at first, but the rewards will be worth it in the long run. Now, let's move onto the next tip: cooking your meals at home.,


Cook your meals at home
One of the most effective ways to save some serious cash is by cooking your own meals at home. Eating out or ordering in can add up quickly and take a huge chunk out of your budget. By preparing your meals at home, you can not only save money but also ensure that you're eating healthier and more nutritious meals.

When you cook at home, you have complete control over the quality of the ingredients and the portion sizes. Plus, it's a great way to get creative and experiment with new recipes and flavors. You can also make meal prep a family activity, getting your loved ones involved in the process and making it a fun and bonding experience.

By incorporating more home-cooked meals into your routine, you'll be able to cut down on impulse purchases and avoid the extra fees and tips that come with dining out. So, fire up that stove and start cooking!


Use cashback apps
Using cashback apps is another great way to save money. These apps allow you to earn money back on purchases you already make. With the help of cashback apps, you can get money back on groceries, clothing, and even travel expenses. The best part is that these apps are free to use and easy to set up.

One popular cashback app is Ibotta. Ibotta offers cashback on a variety of products, such as food, beauty, and household goods. Another great app is Rakuten, which offers cashback on qualifying purchases made online or in-store. By using these apps, you can earn money back while doing your regular shopping.

By saving money with cashback apps and cooking more meals at home, you'll be able to free up some extra cash in your budget. The next tip we have for you is to consider buying generic brands.


Buy generic brands
One simple way to save money is to consider buying generic brands when you do your shopping. While it's easy to be drawn in by flashy packaging and brand names, oftentimes generic brands offer the exact same quality at a much lower price point.

Whether you're shopping for groceries or household items, generic brands can be a great way to save money without sacrificing quality. And with cashback apps like Ibotta and Rakuten, you can potentially earn even more savings on your generic purchases.

Of course, it's always a good idea to compare prices and read product reviews before making any purchases. And if you do find a generic brand that you love, stick with it to consistently save money in the long run.
By incorporating generic brands into your shopping routine, you'll be able to free up more money in your budget for other important expenses. And speaking of saving money, our next tip is all about shopping for deals and discounts to help stretch your dollars even further.


Shop for deals and discounts
By incorporating generic brands into your shopping routine, you'll be able to free up more money in your budget for other important expenses. And speaking of saving money, our next tip is all about shopping for deals and discounts to help stretch your dollars even further. With so many retailers and online marketplaces, it’s easier than ever to find deals on the products you need.

Before making any purchase, do a quick search for coupons, promo codes, or discounts that you can apply to your order. Many retailers offer discounts for first-time customers or for signing up for their email newsletter. You can also check deal websites or download apps that aggregate the latest discounts and promotions from a variety of stores.

Additionally, consider shopping during holiday sales such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday to save even more. Take advantage of price matching policies that many stores offer, so you can get the best deal possible.

By making a habit of searching for deals and discounts, you can reduce your overall expenses and stretch your budget even further. Now that you know how to save money on products, let's move on to our next tip and talk about how to save money on services by canceling unused subscriptions.


Cancel unused subscriptions
By now, you might have realized that trimming your expenses can be achieved by reducing the cost of both products and services. While we have covered some great tips for saving money on products, we cannot ignore the savings you can make by canceling unused subscriptions.

Many of us have subscriptions that we no longer use or need. It could be a gym membership, a magazine subscription, or a streaming service account. These may seem like small amounts, but over time, they can add up and take a significant chunk out of your budget.

Go through your bank and credit card statements and find out which subscriptions you are still paying for and cancel the ones you no longer use. You can also use a subscription management tool like Truebill or Trim to identify and cancel subscriptions you forgot about.

By canceling unused subscriptions, you can save money that can be directed towards more important expenses, such as paying off debts or saving for a rainy day. And with the extra money in your pocket, it becomes easier to reduce your energy bills by making a few simple changes.


Shop second-hand
Shopping second-hand is a smart way to save money while reducing your carbon footprint. Second-hand stores, thrift shops, and online marketplaces are filled with gently used items that can be a fraction of the original cost. Furniture, clothing, home décor, and even electronics can often be found in good condition if you are willing to take the time to look.

By shopping second-hand, you are not only saving money, but you are also helping to reduce waste. In a world where the fast fashion industry and consumerism have a significant impact on the environment, choosing to buy second-hand is a conscious effort to make a difference.

Making small changes in your shopping habits can have a significant impact on your budget while contributing to a more sustainable future. By shopping second-hand, you can put the money saved towards other goals like savings, travel, or treating yourself to an experience.

In addition to reducing costs, making your own cleaning products is another way to save money and be eco-friendly. With a few simple ingredients, you can make effective cleaning solutions that are safer for your family, pets, and the environment.


Find FREE entertainment 
In addition to reducing your environmental impact, finding ways to entertain yourself for free can also help you save money. Instead of going out to expensive restaurants or paying for pricey entertainment, consider exploring free options that are available to you.

For example, many cities offer free outdoor concerts and festivals during the summer months. Check your local events calendar to see what's happening in your area. You might also consider taking advantage of free museum days or visiting local parks and nature trails. These options can provide hours of entertainment and don't cost a penny.

If you're looking for more indoor activities, consider borrowing books and movies from your local library instead of buying them. You might also try hosting a game night with friends or starting a book club.

By finding free ways to entertain yourself, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact at the same time. It's a win-win situation that can help you live a more sustainable and fulfilling life.


In conclusion, these 10 money-saving hacks will make a significant impact on your finances without compromising your lifestyle. By creating a budget, cooking meals at home, using cashback apps, buying generic brands, shopping for deals and discounts, cancelling unused subscriptions, reducing energy bills, shopping second-hand, making your own cleaning products, and entertaining yourself for free, you'll be able to save money effortlessly.Remember to start small and gradually work your way up, and you'll be amazed at how much you can save. 

Five Best Running Shoes for Women

Tuesday, May 9, 2023


One of the things I wanted to get better in 2023 was to get better at running. I usually set myself small goals so when I reach them I feel more motivated to continue and take on my next small goal. I started with 1000 hours outside and tide in learning how to run. My boyfriend is a very fintess-y person, I am not, so we started with walks, than speed walks, than run for few minutes than walk for few minutes, and now to running. I m nowhere near ready for a 5K run but I can run for 7-10 minutes without dying. Right running shoes were a huge difference for me, as they the most important pieces of equipment for running.

Before purchasing the new balance shoes I did some research and these are the 5 I like the most.

New Balance Fresh Foam Evoz V2 

Lululemon Blissfeel 2

Nike React Infinity 3 

ASICS Gel-Kayano 27

Brooks Glycerin 20



shop the shoes here

DESIGNED BY ECLAIR DESIGNS