tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20287508225557683912024-03-13T20:52:06.448-07:00tales of a tightwadglimpses of a 20-something transitioning into frugal living Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-53321202719873896422012-09-04T22:39:00.001-07:002012-09-05T00:22:21.552-07:00Goals Galore <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Because I've been in school for most of my life, September to me is the start of a new year. I have re-evaluated my life, and I'm ready to get off my ass and start pursuing some difficult but feel-so-good-if-accomplished goals...<br />
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<b>GMAT Score ~ 700+</b></div>
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For some reason, the only MBA program that caught my eye was at York University - the 9th best business school in the world. Oh why oh why do I want to go to a school that's ranked higher than Yale, Duke, Cornell and MIT? That just means more work for me.<br />
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I'm going to take my GMAT in the new year, and I want to make it to at least the 92nd percentile. It should be enough to compensate for my not so stellar grades. This will be my biggest challenge because I'm not smart. It'll take a lot of self-discipline - something I don't have a good track record on. I'm still unsure if I even have the capacity to get such a high grade no matter how hard I study. But my sister and boyfriend thinks I can make it. *shrugs* Maybe they know something I don't? </div>
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<b>Healthy Living - 15 pounds </b></div>
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One advice a high scoring MBA candidate gave me is to be physically healthy to ensure I'm mentally fit. I usually suck at keeping a healthy regimen...but I'll try again. This time with a partner: My boyfriend. He has a $1000 bet with 7 others on who can lose the most weight by December. A $8000 prize is a great incentive to keep him motivated! Together, we can eat super healthy, golf and hike and things like that.<br />
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UPDATE: He just offered me an awesome incentive; he'll take me up north to see the aurora borealis if I can lose 15 pounds by December 4th, 2012! </div>
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<b>Re-Decorating </b></div>
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It seems that I'm stuck in my old dingy house for a while. There's no way I'm going to study for my GMAT on the floor. (My place has no chairs and only one table - a coffee table!) Fortunately, my friend is moving downtown, so he's giving me his desk. I'm going to turn one of the "storage rooms" into a study. I don't have much money, so I'll be frequenting the free section on Craigslist, garage sales and Value Village. I hope you won't mind my future conglomerate posts on cheap/free finds and DIY projects! </div>
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<b>Blogging! </b></div>
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Just like everyone else, I want to get into hardcore blogging. I'm not sure how to approach this, and my English isn't very good...but I LOVE reading and writing. And it's great to read and write with a bunch of like-minded people. Moreover, I LOVE creating websites via wordpress (php ftw!) so this blog will be another reason for me to keep learning php. And who knows, if it's successful enough, I can add it to my grad application!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-51078918321506182942012-09-03T00:17:00.001-07:002012-09-03T23:42:58.007-07:00Consolidating my Loans <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gocollege.com/images/consolidating-student-loan-debt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.gocollege.com/images/consolidating-student-loan-debt.jpg" /></a></div>
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Err...kind of.<br />
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I was looking at my student loan account information and was mortified that I would be paying over $4000 in interest. I only owe $8000. What gives?<br />
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My boyfriend saw my mortified face and literally five minutes later he transferred me $5000 to pay off my loans. <i>Are you really doing this? </i>I asked him. <i>Yes</i>, he said, <i>we are going to get married, so your money is my money</i>. I told him that was dumb, and so we compromised on a payment plan: I'll slowly pay him back, and he won't charge interest.<br />
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I'm not really sure what I feel about this...I'm uncomfortable and, er touched?<br />
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Uncomfortable that now I owe a ton of money to a person I see often and I love. What if something happens? I don't want money to be something that could get between us.<br />
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Touched because he unhesitatingly gave me a huge stack. So unselfish, and trusting - or at least he really believes I'll be making the dough after I get my MBA. How did I get so lucky?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-81575159212879618182012-08-28T21:51:00.001-07:002012-08-28T21:56:09.417-07:00meal plan #6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://myyoga.bc.cdn.bitgravity.com/open/images/articles/medium/478-committing-to-your-whole-heath-nutrition-plan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://myyoga.bc.cdn.bitgravity.com/open/images/articles/medium/478-committing-to-your-whole-heath-nutrition-plan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Since my boyfriend has been eating a lot of my food lately, he agreed to take me down south to stock up my pantry. I now have cans of tuna, canned tomatoes, three kinds of pasta, udon, coconut milk, tortilla wraps, a huge bag of cereal, canned clams, taco seasoning, frozen pizza, cream soda, soy milk, and ground beef. For me, free :) For him, $44.<br />
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Now all I need to take care of is the cooking and the fruits & veggies! Last week's meal plan:<br />
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<tr><td valign="top" width="30%"><b style="background-color: #b4a7d6;">What I have:</b><br />
Chick Peas<br />
Vermicelli<br />
Wheat Torillas<br />
Garlic<br />
Jalapeno<br />
Lime<br />
Salad Roll Skin<br />
Fish Sauce<br />
Canned Clams<br />
Udon<br />
Ground beef<br />
<br /></td><td valign="top" width="30%"><b style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">What I bought:</b><br />
Roma Tomatoes<br />
Kiwis<br />
Lime<br />
Nectarines<br />
Romaine Lettuce<br />
Cucumber<br />
Parsley<br />
Grapes<br />
Bean Sprouts<br />
Mushrooms<br />
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= $9.31 </td><td valign="top" width="30%"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><b>The dishes:</b></span><br />
Salad Rolls with nuac cham<br />
Chick Pea Spinach Soup<br />
Clam linguine<br />
Soft Shelled Tacos<br />
Greek Salad<br />
Udon Noodles</td></tr>
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Picture time!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgxMep5jUG7pCuMo8vu-mOMaHc4glVwlq6viBW81DB9vCR24pcjBVomPJAo3xmjkivuf1NQg8-8GXQsjlIWpTRTCTZd-hLX56s351eD-FetIyKiIMBZHLfXG2m7_KsnyLtHl_PdSMriv5/s1600/_DSC0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgxMep5jUG7pCuMo8vu-mOMaHc4glVwlq6viBW81DB9vCR24pcjBVomPJAo3xmjkivuf1NQg8-8GXQsjlIWpTRTCTZd-hLX56s351eD-FetIyKiIMBZHLfXG2m7_KsnyLtHl_PdSMriv5/s400/_DSC0305.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqH9VtBIUjXFEPIZme0Q5EJRiTTGpZYn_MDOt3RPznyhhCRR16-Oeb_HBFBO23lzd-sdunG6XvYxwr6c9XSQe5Clw6Vq7jftQjI53nwbj9McxE1YzeYeZl2l0lHACmmbFLWovx5OQql9u/s1600/_DSC0311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqH9VtBIUjXFEPIZme0Q5EJRiTTGpZYn_MDOt3RPznyhhCRR16-Oeb_HBFBO23lzd-sdunG6XvYxwr6c9XSQe5Clw6Vq7jftQjI53nwbj9McxE1YzeYeZl2l0lHACmmbFLWovx5OQql9u/s400/_DSC0311.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpkLicrmLH1dSXsi90ck2dGkekruudJgp_94DKRNM1rDIUrYIg3i3lXQfu5Lz4HLEgom7dN5NutgC0qs-kKGoEikyTsQjOGVnpV1I1tn4G3mFBVe_4pXEzjfAxXLo0qZf-xYUZHWNnC9G/s1600/_DSC0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpkLicrmLH1dSXsi90ck2dGkekruudJgp_94DKRNM1rDIUrYIg3i3lXQfu5Lz4HLEgom7dN5NutgC0qs-kKGoEikyTsQjOGVnpV1I1tn4G3mFBVe_4pXEzjfAxXLo0qZf-xYUZHWNnC9G/s400/_DSC0295.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-29460528203574702932012-08-28T21:19:00.002-07:002012-08-28T21:25:02.238-07:00recette de la semaine: spicy mayonaise<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.whiteonricecouple.com/recipe/images/sriracha-mayo-final-1-425x640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.whiteonricecouple.com/recipe/images/sriracha-mayo-final-1-425x640.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From White on Rice Couple</td></tr>
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I remember when I lived in Korea and scoured each large supermarket for Sriracha rooster sauce. I couldn't find it. Then I took the subway one and half hours out of town to a Vietnamese neighbourhood and scoured their stores. Couldn't find it there either. I was devastated.</div>
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Since I've returned, I might be slightly ODing on this stuff. It's so versatile - it's great on pizza, in noodles, fried rice, soup and hotdogs - virtually anything I cook. And it's cheap.</div>
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And only recently did I find out that it is the key ingredient to spicy mayo, samurai sauce, *insert restaruant here*'s secret sauce - whatever you want to call it. Dip it with yam fries, regular fries, stick it in your hotdog, your burger, your sandwich (think BLT! Mmm)! </div>
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<b>Ingredients</b></div>
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Three tablespoon mayonaise </div>
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One tablespoon sriracha sauce </div>
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One teaspoon lime juice </div>
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<b>Procedure</b></div>
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Mix it up and enjoy! </div>
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Now, a special section in my blog for the beloved rooster sauce: </div>
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<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/theoatmeal-img/comics/sriracha/header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/theoatmeal-img/comics/sriracha/header.png" width="234" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-57601819920940076482012-08-27T16:41:00.001-07:002012-08-27T16:44:39.939-07:00My Cashless Envelope System <br />
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If I ever try to keep up with an exercising regimen, it'll last 3 months max. Why? I'm a lazy person. If I have a goal, but it's entirely inconvenient - that is, gets between me and my couch - there's no chance I will ever reach it.<br />
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And that is why I stopped using cash and envelope system. Do I see myself keeping every little receipt from every little purchase I make? How about consistently inputting my purchases into a neat spreadsheet? Nope and nope. Do I see myself regularly going to the bank for cash, separating them into labeled envelopes and placing them into my Louis Vuitton wallet? Ha! I'm not cramping my style.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>However, I have a system that works for me. It's <a href="http://mint.com/">Mint.com</a>.<br />
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Mint.com is great for creating and tracking my budget. All my accounts - credit cards, loan and bank accounts - are linked to one account. I can see how much I've spent. Each purchase is automatically categorized under labels like gas & fuel, groceries, and charity. If you are unique, because everyone is, you can make your own categories as well.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO4eJO0NT4_gtxdU6vWBj-EWvXkIV7z95XoB0orPHMfIPpcVE5v71PRqj73y3UCb3mop8j36o3ykhQEJJ1vuCOGqdY2GDCI0TQJYxkkgTrkdmahx_YgN3_zsruTZevg4PUpfhomab/s1600/MintTrends.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO4eJO0NT4_gtxdU6vWBj-EWvXkIV7z95XoB0orPHMfIPpcVE5v71PRqj73y3UCb3mop8j36o3ykhQEJJ1vuCOGqdY2GDCI0TQJYxkkgTrkdmahx_YgN3_zsruTZevg4PUpfhomab/s640/MintTrends.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not my account! </td></tr>
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They have neat charts and graphs that show you whatever you want to see about your spending habits. Want to see how much you spent on groceries for the last three months? Here's a chart! How about - for some reason - you want to see how much you spent at Petro Canada compared to Chevron? Mint'll show it to you.<br />
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Most importantly, they have a feature that functions very similar to the envelope system. You can create a budget with Mint and it'll keep you on track. For example, tell them that every month you only want to spend $60 on fuel. If you go over budget? They'll email you and/or send you a text to let you know there's no more money in the budget for fuel. You keep going over budget? Mint will let you know.<br />
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And it's free! And it has an iPhone app! And it reminds me to pay my bills! Ever since I returned to Canada I've been using Mint to handle my finances - and as long as it continues to be free, this will be my primary budgeting tool. Props to the designers of the user interface - it's really easy...even my technologically challenged mother can use this.<br />
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A++Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-84676468777894217832012-08-25T10:52:00.000-07:002012-08-25T11:50:17.638-07:00Generation Y is Cheap?!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/23777192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/23777192.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a silly meme. This does not reflect my political standings! Or does it?</td></tr>
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I find it amusing when the older generation tries to debunk us youngin's mysterious behaviour using expert analysis, advanced statistics and marketing alogrithms. Take the recent article, <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2012/09/the-cheapest-generation/309060/?single_page=true">The Cheapest Generation</a>, for example.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'times new roman', times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"> In 2010, adults between the ages of 21 and 34 bought just 27 percent of all new vehicles sold in America, down from the peak of 38 percent in 1985. Miles driven are down, too. </span></blockquote>
And because of this, the author labels the milleniums as cheap.<br />
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Hmmm.<br />
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I don't think it's us being cheap, it's us not being able to afford it. Unemployment rate for us in America is almost 13% and that's not including the 1.75 million people that have dropped out of the labour market (because they have given up looking for work.) Also, a significant proportion of employed Gen Ys are misplaced. That is, they are working for a position, likely for a low wage, that is non related to their degree.<br />
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Oh yeah, we did face 3Xs the tuition fee. And once we do pay it back, do we want to invest in a durable good that we see is just another liability? Probably not for a while.<br />
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In major cities, public transportation is efficient enough, thank you very much.<br />
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The article should be retitled to, The Poorest Generation.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-71984418011885799122012-08-22T13:30:00.000-07:002012-08-21T21:06:15.443-07:00My Cheap Road Trip: Ideas & Tips You can Use<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weeks ago, a couple girlfriends and I drove down from Vancouver to Oregon for two nights and three days. We each shelled out less than $200 for a trip that was luxurious, adventurous and novel. It was so wonderful, I still look back with banana smiles.<br />
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This is a huge feat for me; the road trip was cheap, but it didn't <i>feel </i>cheap. </blockquote>
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The breakdown:<br />
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Gas - $55<br />
Groceries - $15<br />
Lodging: $28<br />
Touristy stuff: $40<br />
<u>+ Dining out - $60</u><br />
Total - $198<br />
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<a name='more'></a><b>Buy Everything South of the Border</b><br />
Canadians: take advantage of American prices and your cheap road trip will be, well, that much cheaper.<br />
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American gas prices, regardless of their recent increase, are still better than Canada's. We arrived in America with an empty tank and immediately filled up.<br />
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We also stopped by the 24 hour Walmart at Tulalip to stock up on groceries for the next three days. We definitely weren't frugal when we were shopping -- coconut water, boxes of candy and 3 bags of ridiculously-difficult-to-locate-in-Canada Flaming Hot Cheetos were unnecessary! Nevertheless, we only spent $15 dollars each on drinks, snacks and seven meals. (We actually bought too much.)<br />
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American prices - oh how I love you.<br />
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<b>Try New Things: There's a new stream of lodging out there</b><br />
Have you heard of <a href="http://www.airbnb.com/">AirBnB</a>? I somehow convinced my girlfriends that we should stay in a stranger's house for a night. They were cynical at first but were overjoyed to see that we had a whole house to ourselves (King size beds, full kitchen, complimentary wine, excellent audio speakers and groovy decorations) - merely ten minutes away from downtown Portland for $54 a night! We felt like queens.<br />
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If you are really adventurous, you can sleep on a stranger's c<a href="http://www.couchsurfing.org/">ouch for free</a>.<br />
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Or go camping for as little as $14! (We spent $29 for a more "luxurious location" though.)<br />
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With so many alternatives to lodging, I don't recommend motels or hostels. They seem to not be cheap enough these days.<br />
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<b>It's Okay to Borrow </b><br />
The key to a cheap road trip is to have the right equipment. If you don't have it, ask for it. Swap your gas guzzler for an economy sized car with a relative. Ask your outdoorsy friends for a tent or two. Take the beach chairs your mom won as swag from a conference. Ask your friend who never uses his GPS, for his GPS. Does your retired neighbour have a collection of fishing rods? Ask to borrow one or two! All these things make your traveling experience <i>a lot </i>better, and is free.<br />
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<b>Preparation is Key</b><br />
Spending can add up if your forget your shampoo and underwear; you'll ultimately end up buying them on the road. If you're an organizing junkie, you can make a check list of what to pack on a spreadsheet. But you don't have to be <i>that </i>organized. Simply google/swag buck <i><a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=road+trip+check+list&aq=f&sugexp=chrome,mod=19&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8">road trip check list</a></i>, find a list you like, bookmark it. When the time to pack as come, go back to it and use it.<br />
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Did you imagine your road trip to be spontaneous? I used to. But if you want to save money, it's probably best to have an <i>idea </i>of where you are going, and how long you should stay there. Don't make a strict schedule - those are no fun. But have a flexible plan in mind, and write it down. Or else you'll be driving in circles. If you are coincidentally going to Oregon from Vancouver, perhaps the route we took could help you...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="389" mozallowfullscreen="true" src="https://docs.google.com/presentation/embed?id=1R1kEsG8Xrx4J90xgJYbqcFZJsEuD_bqS3Ts49eYVFWU&start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="480"></iframe>
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<br />
Overall, I know our road trip was cheap, but it wasn't the cheapest. For example, we chose a more luxurious camp site, bought too much food, and dined out three times: <a href="http://www.marrakeshportland.com/">Marrakesh in Portland</a>, the Oregon Coast's most <a href="http://www.moschowder.com/">famous seafood chowder</a>, and Crab Pot. I have no regrets however - I want to be comfortable and eat what I want when I'm on vacation!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-18609720623912195572012-08-21T15:13:00.000-07:002012-08-21T21:28:04.789-07:00Olive Oil as Make Up RemoverOh surely you remember my <a href="http://thetightwadtale.blogspot.ca/2012/08/debt-free-fabulous.html">frugal beautiful </a>pledge, right?<br />
<br />
Yes, I'm working on cutting down on costs.<br />
Yes, I will look fabulous doing it. Therefore, I am not giving up make up.<br /><br />
But no, I will not spend $15 on make up remover if I can use olive oil.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Lc-8onVA5Jk" width="460"></iframe><br />
<br />
Olive oil is THE inexpensive DIY make up remover. It doesn't clog pores, and leaves your skin feeling soft and supple.<br />
<br />
All you need to do is add olive oil into an old face wash bottle with a pump. Pump out a little bit of oil onto a cotton pad and swipe your face clean.<br />
<br />
Effective and inexpensive. Love it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-69686738452855798462012-08-17T20:48:00.000-07:002012-08-19T18:26:51.475-07:00Meal Plan #5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://fitblogger.ca/wp-content/images/2011/04/meal-planning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://fitblogger.ca/wp-content/images/2011/04/meal-planning.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here I am, home on a Friday night. Skipping a girl's night out and a birthday party to meal plan. Not nerdy or loserish at all.<br />
<br />
Lo and Behold, last week's meal plan.<br />
<br />
<table><tbody>
<tr><td valign="top" width="30%"><b style="background-color: #b4a7d6;">What I have:</b><br />
Chick Peas<br />
Rice<br />
Coconut Milk<br />
Wheat Torillas<br />
Garlic<br />
Cucumbers<br />
Chicken Breast<br />
Lemon<br />
Tomatoes<br />
Mayonaise<br />
<br /></td>
<td valign="top" width="30%"><b style="background-color: #d5a6bd;">What I bought:
</b><br />
Mushrooms<br />
Frozen Chopped Spinach Nectarines<br />
Soy Milk<br />
Tahini<br />
Grape Tomatoes<br />
Green Pepper<br />
White & Purple Onions<br />
French bread<br />
Jalapeno Pepper<br />
= $18.62 </td><td valign="top" width="30%"><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><b>What I'll make:</b></span><br />
Egg Salad Sandwich<br />
Greek Salad<br />
<a href="http://www.hellmanns.ca/en-CA/recipes/detail/6224/1/creamy-mediterranean-shrimp-pasta">Creamy Mediterranean Linguine</a><br />
Tum Yum Chicken<br />
Chicken Salad Sandwich<br />
Paprika Chicken Breasts & Salad<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Yup, I somehow stretched one chicken breast over three meals.<br />
Some pictures...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sWjwasUD2nrw5V224JRq6VGqjEF2DY6j7k9iDolbS6LgKSQgsUUVxjfhNaFj4DNZBb_YSuYNphqNO1fduwTQSKiTOoQqYjY7nQc79t8BqRIjT_BNnCWYD0RDNB9_zPK8_GmdxdGQFews/s1600/IMG_1042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sWjwasUD2nrw5V224JRq6VGqjEF2DY6j7k9iDolbS6LgKSQgsUUVxjfhNaFj4DNZBb_YSuYNphqNO1fduwTQSKiTOoQqYjY7nQc79t8BqRIjT_BNnCWYD0RDNB9_zPK8_GmdxdGQFews/s320/IMG_1042.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg Salad Sandwich with Greek Salad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xaN2IFOZRhMtOJwgDlSmFP50adAOOTfUtdsYs1Ep2dAiY9msCCzGOFywNKWP9WufxlTuGA_xc259woTTJ6_ECRRDawiDsaE5VbL-4onm6VskrjgkD3lKUKdH4KS4A9h0vMs5upcc7QEK/s1600/IMG_1044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xaN2IFOZRhMtOJwgDlSmFP50adAOOTfUtdsYs1Ep2dAiY9msCCzGOFywNKWP9WufxlTuGA_xc259woTTJ6_ECRRDawiDsaE5VbL-4onm6VskrjgkD3lKUKdH4KS4A9h0vMs5upcc7QEK/s320/IMG_1044.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paprika Chicken Breasts & Salad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVwt5Vf0wDQ6QBLFzGScu98CMK-W05LPFx6aXfBeX6VFkCO4BAfZrjQ1OvzyZPzx1NlW9unlx3cQjimosDGmMs88WSPfdyYf9xpkwKpMkbAP6_h51BfCvXQK921kO9D4ohZx3VYKXJRyL/s1600/IMG_1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinVwt5Vf0wDQ6QBLFzGScu98CMK-W05LPFx6aXfBeX6VFkCO4BAfZrjQ1OvzyZPzx1NlW9unlx3cQjimosDGmMs88WSPfdyYf9xpkwKpMkbAP6_h51BfCvXQK921kO9D4ohZx3VYKXJRyL/s320/IMG_1025.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mediterranean Creamy Linguine </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOX2OuWBQXEoPieyMhKotwpizrsZ6tL54K3Cc7ALFCaKIpAwtdRyi6D33H2qsHc6MHjuKXHKqWMSHM_aGXDZBCfpWjXSutMsT1ERduthyhHdXqNX-PJcjVp8yzpeqDUhcKrgogDsiHo0w/s1600/IMG_1028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicOX2OuWBQXEoPieyMhKotwpizrsZ6tL54K3Cc7ALFCaKIpAwtdRyi6D33H2qsHc6MHjuKXHKqWMSHM_aGXDZBCfpWjXSutMsT1ERduthyhHdXqNX-PJcjVp8yzpeqDUhcKrgogDsiHo0w/s320/IMG_1028.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Yum Chicken Soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdJE8wKinYFgDuusb8_b4zx0SITnLFeNCbRbBNAkYlNpbAbE4BSC0y84bHF542zvemRkW8nKTR4p9dinuApQovqXEXWgmhbZQQy7TbAQ_nITckb3wyxRbnUaTq4g1WZ1aW8IzBne21H2X/s1600/IMG_1030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdJE8wKinYFgDuusb8_b4zx0SITnLFeNCbRbBNAkYlNpbAbE4BSC0y84bHF542zvemRkW8nKTR4p9dinuApQovqXEXWgmhbZQQy7TbAQ_nITckb3wyxRbnUaTq4g1WZ1aW8IzBne21H2X/s320/IMG_1030.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Salad Sandwich</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-50881470423968245822012-08-16T20:31:00.001-07:002012-08-16T20:44:20.300-07:00DIY: 52 Reasons Why I Love You Today is my three year anniversary with my boyfriend. What did we do today? We went to McDonalds, and then he returned me home.<br />
<br />
Sigh.<br />
<br />
Okay, I made it sound worse than it really is. He's working a late shift today, and we will be the celebrating this weekend in Washington state.<br />
<br />
So here I am, on our anniversary, alone, with a part of his gift. In the past, I would spoil him with Beat Headphones, and designer clothes. But this year is different. This year is the year I try to be financially responsible . Hence, my first attempt at a homemade gift.<br />
<br />
Here it is:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyTkT_PAGh-nfXc59Jg4kNG-waKD1rsCI9E4aJNJaLv7Wi2wkYHWvczPosnD0gFqICCNO4PMroJWHTw7qAPCtVAEemL6M090ncFtmagq6X1jCl1t6Z3c-sqJhyRAGGbqCCcOw1vxL9G9-/s1600/IMG_1047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyTkT_PAGh-nfXc59Jg4kNG-waKD1rsCI9E4aJNJaLv7Wi2wkYHWvczPosnD0gFqICCNO4PMroJWHTw7qAPCtVAEemL6M090ncFtmagq6X1jCl1t6Z3c-sqJhyRAGGbqCCcOw1vxL9G9-/s640/IMG_1047.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I know some of you are professional DIY-ers, so please don't laugh at my terrible choice in color and design (I was going for a more masculine grungy look for him).<br />
<br />
I got this idea from Pinterest who got the idea from a site in its namesake, <a href="http://www.52reasonsiloveyou.com/">52 Reasons Why I Love You</a>.<br />
<br />
The best part of making this book thing, was listing the 52 reasons! 52 is a big number, but it's not difficult to think of reasons why you love the man of your life =)<br />
<br />
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<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlI24Zm715C7ng1entZW_vtSPzd7ruJHsNzUyoVClQf77Taff3T1av41nZEDTmlGf9-MZMM8GOiKMIMH15HdzohixYizMF7e_yGb1xC0LYZR8ov9WAf0v5A2lTRnGE4PYfu3dqQP-vqhPa/s200/IMG_1046.jpg" width="158" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtYagGvAg56jxfaFqod6-B2wnMHW8oulHiCd0y_eDLHMMjAd24j7p9_WeDVZOcclxQ8mBN_4XFFWOadf7w4s9GTfB2nkIxRI8UjUJcmQrY149Vsf_t0QDRDXHMEwpJncrAHBiGS3RVlA8/s1600/IMG_1048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDtYagGvAg56jxfaFqod6-B2wnMHW8oulHiCd0y_eDLHMMjAd24j7p9_WeDVZOcclxQ8mBN_4XFFWOadf7w4s9GTfB2nkIxRI8UjUJcmQrY149Vsf_t0QDRDXHMEwpJncrAHBiGS3RVlA8/s200/IMG_1048.jpg" width="164" /></a></div>
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Overall, I had fun making this gift. I'm excited to watch him flip through the deck...he'll love it - he loves everything I throw at him. </div>
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Obama approved. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-36843480071193069422012-08-14T20:27:00.000-07:002012-08-15T06:58:40.225-07:00An Ode to Duct Tape<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://phishthoughts.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/duct-tape-rolls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://phishthoughts.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/duct-tape-rolls.jpg" /></a></div>
Oh Duct Tape, so adhesive, so nice<br />
Today I found you and you were useful thrice.<br />
<br />
I couldn't find anything to fit my tub hole smug<br />
My sister said bathing impossible, and left with a shrug<br />
But you my friend, became my bath tub plug<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Macbook repair man made my battery loose<br />
He tried everything, but was of no use<br />
But you my friend, came and results you produced<br />
<br />
This morning a problem with my toilet tank occurred<br />
Something was loose, to fix it - I was unsure<br />
But you my friend, came and now the pieces are secure<br />
<br />
Oh Duct Tape, so useful, so fine<br />
It fits any budget - including poor ass mine<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Duct Tape is like the force. It has a light side, a dark side, and it holds the universe together. </blockquote>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-14216430376677636142012-08-13T19:59:00.004-07:002012-08-13T20:05:19.547-07:00Canadians aren't ready for rainy days<object height="287" width="510"><param name="movie" value="http://www.globalnational.com/video/swf/GlobalNewsEmbedPlayer.swf?player.width=510&player.height=287&player.overlayImageUrl=&pid=31Rl_yY_ovI7xo29Ojh1Fg_mLE_fA9g5&show=Global National&episode=&season=&cliptitle=Canadians+arent+prepared+for+rainy+days+poll"></param>
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<embed src="http://www.globalnational.com/video/swf/GlobalNewsEmbedPlayer.swf?player.width=510&player.height=287&player.overlayImageUrl=&pid=31Rl_yY_ovI7xo29Ojh1Fg_mLE_fA9g5&show=Global National&episode=&season=&cliptitle=Canadians+arent+prepared+for+rainy+days+poll" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="510" height="287"></embed></object><br />
<br />
On tonight's Global News, the latest polls show that about 45% of Canadians have no emergency funds. <br />
<br />
Scary.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
You need a steady job to have money. </blockquote>
<br />
And I believe that factor is one of our culprits. At least for me. How many positions do I need to fill this year before I get a steady job? It looks like four minimum.<br />
<br />
But Canadians have it good compared to our southern neighbour. We have medicare.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-54896988291158364492012-08-13T01:47:00.001-07:002012-08-13T01:52:47.338-07:00Sunday Night Chit-chat<a href="http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/2012/08/sunday-night-chit-chat-1.html#comments">Time for another chit-chat with Carla! </a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXCKytpWNkO13LZX5g9Uf5npc13qp3cMmzvBZpP6LgB6ogfuTfge1PdeUdnJb43AfJFmpgtNTUiatpxt1CL2T5h8QJsc-HqbfDzeSZ_XNQCNIRw9FZfCPlZs9FRAGIkBK4IMkU45zL74Z/s1600/_DSC0418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXCKytpWNkO13LZX5g9Uf5npc13qp3cMmzvBZpP6LgB6ogfuTfge1PdeUdnJb43AfJFmpgtNTUiatpxt1CL2T5h8QJsc-HqbfDzeSZ_XNQCNIRw9FZfCPlZs9FRAGIkBK4IMkU45zL74Z/s1600/_DSC0418.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Korea, a favorite past time on the ferry is to feed the seagulls Shrimp chips out of your hands. This picture is from my last ferry ride. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="background-color: white; clear: none; color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 11px;">
<strong>What am I reading? </strong></div>
<div style="background-color: white; clear: none; margin-bottom: 11px;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Job postings. And my cover letters before I send them off. Yup, I'm back on the hunt. *shudder* Hopefully tomorrow there will be more positions for me to apply for on charity village. </span></span></div>
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<strong>What are you watching?</strong></div>
<div style="background-color: white; clear: none; color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 11px;">
My e-mails from prospective employers. Haven't turned on the TV or downloaded anything for days. Must. Get. Job.</div>
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<b>What am I listening to? </b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; clear: none; color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 11px;">
Currently, this song is on repeat. </div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="287" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xk5UStefYmE" width="510"></iframe>
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You can feel her agony in this song. Love it. Can't wait until Christmas to see my favorite play into a movie! </div>
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<b>What am I cooking?</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; clear: none; color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 11px;">
Check it out.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSc6cG1jrC7CYp2YOPqLl5A2FrIyaaqhSG1VtuQSbVGSIkFjAkLv9vFn8Nj-9PdibsYDUdRGHRhD1YEdHHvkdYCdQ9ypwg8F6VBNb54KjwOIsSPsaD8ZJoDgQU0q2u68GAR-NOXS-DGd3/s1600/IMG_1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSc6cG1jrC7CYp2YOPqLl5A2FrIyaaqhSG1VtuQSbVGSIkFjAkLv9vFn8Nj-9PdibsYDUdRGHRhD1YEdHHvkdYCdQ9ypwg8F6VBNb54KjwOIsSPsaD8ZJoDgQU0q2u68GAR-NOXS-DGd3/s1600/IMG_1025.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">creamy vegetable fettucine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Looking forward to next week?</b></span></div>
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I'm not sure - I don't know what next week has in store for me. Will I be employed or unemployed? Perhaps I'll look forward to laying in bed all day. Maybe have a "The Amish" marathon. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Something I accomplished... </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Deciding on my own that I would stay in Canada! If my boyfriend asked me to stay, I would in a heart beat - but he's not that kind of man. "I'll support you with whatever you choose to do," he'll say. Or, "Whatever is best for you." He was willing to put up with another one year long distance relationship. What a weirdo. In the end, I realized I couldn't find someone as supportive and awesome as him...but I could find another position.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b>Thankful for today?</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">My entertainment book. I bought that thing for $50 and it's saved me $50 this week alone.</span></span></div>
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<b style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">When it comes to shopping for clothes for myself, what item do I have the hardest time saying "no" to?</b></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: Lato, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">I've been pretty good at saying no! But if anything would be the end of me, it'd be a shoe sale. I don't know why but even though I have twice as many shoes as my immediate family combined, I always feel that I don't have enough. </span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-26370852908950173222012-08-11T14:42:00.001-07:002012-08-11T14:45:14.013-07:00An apology to father<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pics.blameitonthevoices.com/102010/High_Expectaitions_Asian_Father.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://pics.blameitonthevoices.com/102010/High_Expectaitions_Asian_Father.jpg" /></a></div>
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Dear Wonderful but High Expectations Father, </div>
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You came to Canada, a land of opportunity, to provide a better future for your children. You made every effort to make sure that my sister and I didn't go through the same hardships that you and mother did. In return, we'd go to school, more school, meet a rich Chinese guy to marry, then become a doctor or engineer. </div>
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I remember when we were dirt poor and we barely had anything to eat. You would always pick the best piece of meat for me to eat while you and mom sucked on bones. I know that you both opted for clothes from the Salvation Army so you could buy me the pair of new Nike's. In grade 8, I undeservingly received a shiny Motorola Razr. Everybody envied me. You didn't even have your own cell phone yet. For reasons I will not full understand until I become an adult, you always put me first.<br />
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Mom told me that you were good to me because you wanted me to be happy. A happy Lynda got good grades. And good grades got scholarships. And scholarships was the medium to my doctor/engineer profession. </div>
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Dad, I'm so sorry. You've been so good to me all my life, and I didn't realize it until the last few years. I'm so sorry I never enrolled in the courses that would make me a doctor or engineer. Instead I did the worse thing I could in university: I studied the arts. And now I'm unemployed. </div>
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I've let you down. </div>
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And they tell me you'd understand. That as long as I'm happy and do what I love, you'd understand. But they're wrong. There is not one time in my life where you have told me what I'm studying is what you wanted from me. I can't even prove to you that my "useless degree" isn't useless. I can't seem to find a reasonable job. </div>
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And I couldn't even find a Chinese man to marry. I found a Korean one instead. I know that you've always wanted a son. I can't even give you a son-in-law you can speak to. But believe me, he is patient, and will listen to your advice and stories in broken English. </div>
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But I will do one thing that you've been egging me to do all these years. I'm going to learn Chinese. This time I'm going to give it my all. I have Chinese dramas lined up, and Chinese worksheets, Rosetta Stone in Chinese, and three Chinese textbooks to learn from. I'm going all Chinese. It's the least I could do for you.<br />
<br />
You're disappointing (but hopefully not as much soon) daughter,<br />
LyndaUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-32468129461435231952012-08-10T11:41:00.004-07:002012-08-10T16:22:08.008-07:00Debt Free & Fabulous I am going to be fabulous while I live the frugal life. I might have to hide at home and divert dinner dates to coffee, but I'm going to look good while doing it. I'm not going to sell my arm for a designer bag, but there is no way in hell am I going to frolic about town in the same pair of holey sweats. And no matter how poor I get, a good night cream is mandatory. Cue the:<br />
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<a href="http://frugalbeautiful.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DebtFreePledge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://frugalbeautiful.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/DebtFreePledge.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-72143780608183752982012-08-09T21:25:00.000-07:002012-08-10T07:21:52.033-07:00Oh why oh why haven't I been writing?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4WBFPnDNZjQ11rQMUDPFtBB4bsIq5eRjBSjCdzIphAoovTtpQ3bibyr8knrJvr1S2ntyg61nlld0ws1lOkV25Qp0VMqp4it7Aiu90qo1ndL8zT2KTsIDUQZeICDvgS2DV2qYO_eSFtbV/s1600/Writing_by_after_the_party.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4WBFPnDNZjQ11rQMUDPFtBB4bsIq5eRjBSjCdzIphAoovTtpQ3bibyr8knrJvr1S2ntyg61nlld0ws1lOkV25Qp0VMqp4it7Aiu90qo1ndL8zT2KTsIDUQZeICDvgS2DV2qYO_eSFtbV/s1600/Writing_by_after_the_party.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Since I've moved back to Canada, I've been catching up on my old life and going through some personal things. But I'm back, this time in full force! Let me explain why.<br />
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It took me two months to finally finish an interview process for a school that's looking to send me to Korea (this time with better pay, location and conditions!). I haven't received their answer, but it doesn't matter much.<br />
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I've decided to stay in Canada.<br />
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In the name of love.<br />
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My boyfriend and I have been on the rocks, and after a three weeks hiatus from each other, we reconfirmed our commitment with each other. Another long distance relationship is the last thing I need right now.<br />
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I can get another job, but I can't get another him.<br />
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So while I, once again, hunt for a job, I'll have to be even more frugal. I need to be content with staying at home (because my car broke down and I have no money to fix it. and transit here is inefficient and expensive.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-64972906753256864152012-08-01T16:26:00.001-07:002012-08-11T13:17:05.791-07:00Extremely Simple Mango Pudding Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.whatsonsanya.com/wine_images/30976c3f331e9be5_mango%20pudding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.whatsonsanya.com/wine_images/30976c3f331e9be5_mango%20pudding.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was craving mango pudding, an East Asian dessert that sells from $5 - $10 bucks for a little bowl at the restaurants. I decided to make my own and delightedly discovered that a serving is way under a dollar. It's ridiculously easy to make and tastes ridiculously good as well!<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;"></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">Ingredients</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">1 packet gelatin </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">2 medium to large ripe mangoes pureed </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">1/2 cup hot water</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">1/3 white sugar </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">1 cup coconut milk</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">Directions</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">1. Puree the mangos. Leave them in the container.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-style: inherit; text-decoration: inherit;">2. In a sauce pan, heat the hot water until a rolling boiling.</span><br />
3. Whisk in the gelatin, then the sugar.<br />
4. Add the contents of the sauce pan into the container of your blender/puree, along with coconut milk.<br />
5. Blend, pour into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least two hours.<br />
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There are many ways to serve it. I either like it with fruits, or topped with 2 table spoons of evaporated milk, or coconut milk.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-79424954096400316252012-07-08T21:13:00.003-07:002012-08-11T14:54:14.764-07:00Grocery Store Spotlight: PricePro<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pricepro.org/wp-content/themes/Vulcan/timthumb.php?src=http://www.pricepro.org/images/slideshow/store2.png&h=280&w=936&zc=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://pricepro.org/wp-content/themes/Vulcan/timthumb.php?src=http://www.pricepro.org/images/slideshow/store2.png&h=280&w=936&zc=1" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Being frugal does not mean we have to be a slave to corporate giants like Walmart. Social enterprises like the one I'm shining the spotlight on today, make it possible for us to contribute to responsible organizations whilst living on a budget. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">Out of all the grocery stores in British Columbia, I'm going to have to say that I enjoy PricePro the most. The grocery store is for customers who: is into responsible consumerism, wants great value, practices a 100 mile diet, likes customer service.</span><br />
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Their prices are relatively competitive, and their quality is pretty good. Their meat is from an actual in-house butcher - not a meat cutter - and is probably the best part of the shop in terms of value. They avoid all the hormone injected animals and opt for the free range meat instead. Once I was overwhelmed by the selection (because I didn't *gasp* meal plan), and a nice gentleman (that all my single girlfriends would have loved) offered to help me out.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>As for their produce? You can sometimes find a better deal in the aisles of a Loblaw grocery store, but I must point out that the quality of PricePro's produce is <i>usually</i> superior. I can't confirm this but I have always felt that they were more beautiful, and have an extended shelf life compared to, say, Superstore.<br />
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I could go on about their bakery section and smiling volunteers but I'm just going to cut to the chase and let you know the main reason this place keeps me coming; it is a non-profit organization. That's right; all proceeds fund the Welcome Home - an organization that runs recovery addiction programs. Also, PricePro doesn't only provide funding, it serves as a training place for individuals to learn valuables skills that can be translated into the real world.<br />
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Overall, if you're over in the area, this is a highly recommended venue to grab your groceries.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-40468566298892746262012-06-23T11:47:00.000-07:002012-08-11T23:56:26.791-07:00Emergency Fund<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_Z9ZapsTrVKpZJWB8eKIq4Alr1BSyq2ypA4Q6KX2Iwx6gUGYX_qOy_QbMpYIXX1r06Thc-hWxyI-xI2s8iFxfCoqBZpd9skiil0neF53c4CY4C0PAFuTGympZphMT-gOhV-swjOeFywi/s1600/emergencyfund.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_Z9ZapsTrVKpZJWB8eKIq4Alr1BSyq2ypA4Q6KX2Iwx6gUGYX_qOy_QbMpYIXX1r06Thc-hWxyI-xI2s8iFxfCoqBZpd9skiil0neF53c4CY4C0PAFuTGympZphMT-gOhV-swjOeFywi/s1600/emergencyfund.jpeg" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">My boyfriend has quite a bit of money saved up, and I had the comfort of knowing that should an emergency arise, he'd be there to help me. We're practically married anyways. He insists that his money is our money. I believed him, and threw my savings into my student loans. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a>But recently, I had a conversation with one of my good friends. He dated a lady for two years and went broke. She was suspiciously unemployed the duration of the relationship, but was adorned with designer bags and taken on lavish vacations. When he ran out of money he resorted to credit. When he got stuck in credit debt she conveniently decided she didn't love him anymore and was on her way. Now he's in debt, broken hearted and regrets spoiling the woman.<br />
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I thought about my boyfriend and me. I can't imagine us splitting up, but shit happens. I could look as terrible as my friend's former gal pal. What's worse is that I would be taking advantage of a really sweet man.<br />
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Until him and I seal the deal, I'll need to take matters into my own hands.<br />
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Ladies and gentlemen, it is time.<br />
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Time to take the <a href="http://thetightwadtale.blogspot.ca/2012/02/dave-ramsey-who-is-this-guy.html">first step of seven</a>. I've opened a Jumpstart Tax-Free Savings Accounts to house my emergency fund.<br />
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I've accumulated a few points from my EnviroClassic Visa, and redeemed $150 to deposit into TFSA. (If I took it out for cash, it would only have amounted to $100.) And added $10 for good measure. ;)<br />
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I'll add $100 a month until the final sum becomes $1000. Then I'll focus 100% on student loans again.<br />
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Ta da!<br />
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You can check out my progress on the sidebar of this site.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-22209068317340585952012-06-22T22:11:00.000-07:002012-08-10T12:43:24.165-07:00Simple Hot Cocoa<br />
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<a href="http://www.achicabakes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/HotChocolate-DaisyMartinez-560x373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img border="0" height="425" src="http://www.achicabakes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/HotChocolate-DaisyMartinez-560x373.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once upon a time I bought natural cocoa powder to make brownies. And never used it again. Until now, using one of the most simplest but yummiest recipes. It's not only great for winter but for a rainy vancouver (which is like, every day XD)<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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Even though most of us use hot cocoa and hot chocolate interchangeable -- there is a difference. Hot cocoa is made out of cocoa powder only, while hot chocolate utilizes both cocoa solids and cocoa butter.<br />
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There are many ways of making hot cocoa, but I like keeping my recipes simple and to the point.<br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">5 Tablespoons hot water</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 Tablespoon Cocoa powder (or to taste)</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Milk</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">1 Tablespoon sugar</span></li>
</ul>
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<br />
<b>Instructions </b><br />
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<ol>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Add sugar, hot water, and cocoa powder into a mug, stir until everything is nicely dissolved</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Top the mug with milk</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Microwave on high for 45 seconds. Stir. Check for temperature. Microwave at 30 second intervals until it's as hot as you want it. Sometimes the milk will foam up the first 20 seconds, so make sure you're watching it during that time.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">If you would like, top with marshmallows and/or whipped cream/dash of cinnamon</span></li>
</ol>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-67201851061644592932012-06-16T11:57:00.002-07:002012-08-11T18:03:19.656-07:00sticking a clove of garlic in my ear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACvDY-QayA1WB8XHr08Yg_lZhAmnvI2t2my8Nh68gh_zkRQMkPASw9fIdo-XqfTNZuzV3paxpQhGPOUz7XVFuyz9n75ZIhP_0URzv-VRAakCY2hDarqMHaeEesL0CPbtTLRFu8m3dISzk/s1600/garlic+in+ear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACvDY-QayA1WB8XHr08Yg_lZhAmnvI2t2my8Nh68gh_zkRQMkPASw9fIdo-XqfTNZuzV3paxpQhGPOUz7XVFuyz9n75ZIhP_0URzv-VRAakCY2hDarqMHaeEesL0CPbtTLRFu8m3dISzk/s1600/garlic+in+ear.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've come down with a horrible cold. And it's accompanying ear infection. I would stop myself from coughing because the pain in the ear if I did was unbearable.<br />
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It's been a week, I've almost given up trying to treat myself, and had plans to go to the clinic this morning. I would have to be prescribed antibiotics.</div>
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Unable to sleep, I googled a home remedy. I ended up sticking a clove of mashed garlic into my ear - secured by a bandage. I know, the visual is rather silly.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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My ear felt funny for the few minutes. They told us in elementary not to stick anything up our noses or ears, and I did exactly just that. I was scared - but also drugged by the cough syrup. I dozed off for a few minutes, woke up with a nasty cough and *gasp* my ear didn't hurt! The infection was gone! </div>
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I coughed all night and my ear stayed silent =) </div>
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Apparently, garlic is commonly used as a substitute to antibiotics. It contains lots of allicin, which is some kind of fancy compound that has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. That's the stuff that cured my ear infection in a matter of minutes. </div>
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Garlic - 1 Evil Pharmaceutical Companies - 0</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-8696327730066334762012-06-15T22:34:00.001-07:002012-08-11T18:05:51.855-07:004 Money Lessons for Generation Y<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mZlUpQOQcjcbqa_asZNNv3Ou1qEg9z-7MykeMIG66F7seMLl9sjb3xlTKAy8iR4itZ6cxPhoxVe-eZYgX5K_yuCqMq-KWAx9laXPDms1qdnmsrT9V1I1JAG66OpY_LOFhqzdAWz29VkR/s1600/money-lesson-savings.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mZlUpQOQcjcbqa_asZNNv3Ou1qEg9z-7MykeMIG66F7seMLl9sjb3xlTKAy8iR4itZ6cxPhoxVe-eZYgX5K_yuCqMq-KWAx9laXPDms1qdnmsrT9V1I1JAG66OpY_LOFhqzdAWz29VkR/s1600/money-lesson-savings.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My parents give me sound financial advice - if grew up during their time. Let's face it, some of the fundamental money lessons that were learned from the great depression and baby boomers don't apply to generation Y. Thanks to this <a href="http://www.mint.com/blog/consumer-iq/4-things-generation-y-needs-to-know-about-money-042012/">article</a>, I have a clearer grasp of which of pa's advice to scrap. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The article in a nutshell:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">Don't Count On the Degree: </strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">do something that you enjoy, but research the job outlook for your field before committing to the degree program. (Lawyers are having it tough</span></span><br />
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">2. </strong><strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">Be Afraid of Credit: </strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">don't think of your current job as safe. Many have been laid-off, leaving them with no way to pay their debts. Keep debt at a much lower level than in the past.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">3. </strong><strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">A Home Isn't an Investment: </strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">if you purchase a home, don't do it because it's a good investment. Do it for other reasons, like a low interest rate and a great price. Don't count on making money from your home when you move.</span><br style="text-align: left;" /><span style="text-align: left;"><br />4. </span><strong style="color: #111111; line-height: 19px;">Invest Early and Often: </strong><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">think about your retirement plans on the first day of your career and continue investing more than you think you should</span><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, it's too late to learn from Lesson 1. I'm working on lesson two. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">And as for lesson three? I beg to differ. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The article states that the average homeowner will only live in their home for an average of 7-9 years - not enough time for the value of the house to appreciate. I agree with the author on that point, but not with the lesson. So you want to move? Find folks to rent your home to offset the mortgage and maybe even make some extra dough. Wait until it appreciates (this could take decades) and THEN sell it. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lesson four: I'll get on this when student loans are gone! I have began investing actually...but very small. I am adding all the toonies and loonies I receive from change to a big crayon piggy bank. Perhaps over years and years, it'll add up to something. :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let the savings<strike> begin </strike>restart! </span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-31088493996244443492012-06-01T17:23:00.001-07:002012-06-01T17:29:55.191-07:00Back to Basics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.cheezburger.com/completestore/2010/8/30/a407d4a4-eb1b-4ea0-be90-8207a8bc3440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.cheezburger.com/completestore/2010/8/30/a407d4a4-eb1b-4ea0-be90-8207a8bc3440.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have officially moved from Korea to Canada. The last weeks in Asia, and the first weeks here have came and gone so fast! I was too busy seeing the people I love, moving into my new place, and eating all the foods that I missed, that I haven't been blogging or *gasp* watching my cash.<br />
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Now that I'm settled down, it's time to get back into my tightwad techniques. And that is<br />
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<ol>
<li>Staying home.</li>
<li>Eating at home. </li>
<li>Recording all my expenses.</li>
<li>When I'm not at home, try to use the <a href="http://www.entertainment.com/">Entertainment</a> book! </li>
<li>Convince friends who want to meet me to go for coffee instead of dinner.</li>
<li>Stick to an allowance: $120/week</li>
</ol>
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It's going to be more difficult here because:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Higher living costs </li>
<li>Public transportation and walking just doesn't cut it. My location forces me to drive everywhere. </li>
<li>My friends have money and are not afraid to spend, spend, spend. </li>
<li>Unemployed for a good part of this summer. </li>
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This is actually a really good time for me to spend my days in front of cooking shows and trying new recipes. If I cook, I better cook well!<br />
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Wish me good luck!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-4091264928875615422012-04-28T21:01:00.003-07:002012-08-11T18:05:13.305-07:00Don't Play Victim<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbhgzTsPc9ANWu0aoenmVEq-AkrbtLzU7J8YBAUaZK52CyJgN9sVjdg4BA1nwprhUl2QvFo8cruG7LkXPtw28IS1LDN2jfcsrw3494TTKdKnISS-4aRTrhAnTcGy-BtQz0VOnPiyzNVky/s1600/528872_291643687583394_146644308750000_673223_1372415416_n.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTbhgzTsPc9ANWu0aoenmVEq-AkrbtLzU7J8YBAUaZK52CyJgN9sVjdg4BA1nwprhUl2QvFo8cruG7LkXPtw28IS1LDN2jfcsrw3494TTKdKnISS-4aRTrhAnTcGy-BtQz0VOnPiyzNVky/s1600/528872_291643687583394_146644308750000_673223_1372415416_n.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Dear woman in the picture above,<br />
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I'm going to assume that since your the poster child for #OccupyStudentDebt, that you are an average Jane, drowning in student loans for the rest of your life.<br />
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My question to you: Why did it take you 23 years to pay off $32,700? Look at me. I graduated less than two years ago, and I'm making incrementally above minimum wage. I've paid off more than $10,000!<br />
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With a rough calculation, it seems like your interest rate is under 2%. (I guess they just took into account inflation rate.) That's very generous, given mine is 5.5% floating interest.<br />
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I am a believer of progressive politics. I think that there is always room for improvement in society, and that the government is key in making things fairer for everybody.<br />
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But in this case, it's already fair. People with student loans are not victims. If you borrow something, it's only right to give it back.<br />
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Be smart with your money. Don't get pregnant, don't go on unaffordable holidays, and don't buy ridiculously priced designer bags if you can't afford it. It's common sense, really.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
Graduate with student debt who actually takes things into her own hands.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2028750822555768391.post-87457260059806519482012-04-26T19:23:00.000-07:002012-08-10T12:43:43.833-07:00Simple Congee Recipe<br />
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<a href="http://ricecooker.lyndaen.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC0027-1024x678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://ricecooker.lyndaen.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC0027-1024x678.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Ah, the chicken noodle soup of Asia. Serve it to people feeling under the weather, hungover, or on a cold morning. </span><br />
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Serves four.</div>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Ingredients</strong></div>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/4 cup rice (short grain preferably, but normal white rice is good too!)</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">3 1/2 cups water</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">3/4 cup of mushrooms, cut up into bite size pieces</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 tablespoon minced garlic</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tablespoon soy sauce</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/2 tablespoon Chicken powder</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Pepper to taste</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Cilantro and scallions to garnish</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 28px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Drop of sesame oil</li>
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<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Directions</strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial, verdana, georgia;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Throw everything except pepper, sesame oil and garnishes into the rice cooker. I used the slow cooker option for two hours. Do you have a ghetto rice cooker? Stir it occasionally and take it out when congee is smooth and no longer grainy. You might have to add more water.</span></span></div>
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Serve with a drop of sesame oil, pepper to taste and garnishes.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">This is more or less my recipe, with the approximate ingredients. I made this for my meatless mondays, but you can add meat products if you fancy that. I would advise to use real chicken stock instead of water and garnish with mung bean sprouts if you have any at hand. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0