The Aisle File

Weekly Savings Tip: Save Early. Save Often.

2010-10-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

Retirement: the distant fantasy of no work and all play that comes after career. But how much do you know about planning for retirement? Maybe the thought of saving for this milestone 30 or more years down the road has yet to cross your mind. "Save early. Save often." is a good practice to follow when thinking about saving for your retirement. Here's why:

With the widespread use of compounded interest in retirement plans, it's never too early to start saving; compounded interest allows you to get the most out of your contributions, no matter the amount. With simple interest, you only earn interest on your investment, not on the interest that you earn. With compound interest, your annual interest is determined by the total of your investment plus any interest already accrued.

For example, let's take a look at Bill and Benjamin. Bill decides on a plan with simple interest and begins saving for retirement at age 40, putting in an initial investment of $10,000 and contributing $400 per month with a 6% annual rate of return. Benjamin, on the other hand, goes for compound interest and begins saving at age 25, starting with no initial balance and contributing $200 per month with the same 6% annual rate of return. Both men retire at age 65, Bill with $322,069 and Benjamin with $400,290.

Who would you rather be in your sixties: Bill or Benjamin?

Talk with your plan provider about your different investment options for your retirement plan; they can help make sure you're getting the biggest bang for your buck. And check out this chart for a helpful guide to saving for retirement.

2010-09-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

{Photo Credit}

Mobile Banking—Is it for You?

Mobile banking on your cell phone or other mobile device can help you manage your finances by providing easy access anywhere for you to monitor your checking and savings accounts and credit card activity; check bill or loan due dates; pay one-time or recurring bills and receive low balance or transaction alerts via text messaging.

If you have considered mobile banking you have probably wondered if it's safe. In general, mobile banking offers at least the same level of security and encryption as online banking. Account data is typically not stored on your mobile device. To safeguard your personal and account information be sure to do the following:

Download mobile applications from reputable sources only.

Use strong passwords.

Read your financial institution's mobile banking agreement and disclosures.

Avoid using free wireless service available at public locations when conducting financial transactions.

Finally, be sure you are aware of costs.

While most financial institutions offer free mobile banking services, normal transaction fees will apply. Your wireless service provider may also charge you for text messages or downloads, so know the terms of your data plan agreement.

Weekly Savings Tip: Prioritizing and Paying off Debt

2010-09-14T08:03:00.001-07:00

In the United States, the average person carries approximately $8,000 in debt. As this is an average, it represents total debt figures if assigned to every man, woman and child in the nation. It therefore means many people carry far more than $8,000.If you are one of the many who are currently carrying more than one debt and trying to do your best to pay them off, how do you decide what debt to pay first, and in what order? Here are some quick tips to help you make these decisions.Start by knowing your budget. If you don't know how much money is coming in and going out each month, you can't know how much you have to pay down your debt. Start here.

Pay for the essentials first. If you are behind on alimony, taxes or child support, pay off those first. In many cases, you could literally go to jail if you don't do so.P ay off the debt with the least favorable terms/highest interest rate. Which debt has the highest interest rate? Is it fixed or variable, and is the interest something you can deduct from your taxes? For example, mortgage interest rates can be but car loan interest rates cannot. Any extra money in your budget should go to paying off the worst interest rate, not the highest amount of debt. Once you have this debt dealt with, you can apply the money you were using to the debt next on your list.Personalize these guidelines for your specific situation. Tools are available that can be used to take into account the specifics in your life. 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy has resources, tools and calculators to help you determine the best way to drawn down your debt over time. Visit Feed the Pig for more money-saving tips.

Follow Us!

2010-09-06T16:49:00.001-07:00

Luxury Escapes Travel is a boutique agency which offers complete travel services that range from the simplest of weekend getaways to the most intricate honeymoon itineraries. We specialize in both corporate and leisure travel. Our boutique is dedicated to bringing you the finest quality of service at some of the lowest rates in the industry. We make it our priority to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied. As a customer of Luxury Escapes Travel, you can also enjoy our complimentary concierge services. Planning to golf? We're more than happy to schedule your tee time. Indulging in a spa escape? Luxury Escapes will happily reserve your massage appointment. We welcome you to our boutique and we look forward to servicing your future travel needs.

Follow us at Go Luxe for Less!

Go Luxe for Less!: Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!

2010-09-03T13:12:00.001-07:00

Go Luxe for Less!: Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!: "Welcome to our blog! Luxury Escapes is a new boutique agency looking to service all of your travel needs. Whether you're planning a qu..."

Writer Beware Blogs!: Victoria Strauss -- Beware Who's Who Schemes

2010-06-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

Weekly Savings Tip: April 12, 2010

2010-04-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

April 15th is Fast Approaching!

Your 2009 federal and state tax returns should be submitted by this Thursday— April 15th. Whether you owe no money to the IRS, expect a refund or even if you can't pay your tax bill in full—you must still file a tax return by April 15th. If you don't, you could face a penalty for filing late. Additionally, if you owe taxes, you will be assessed penalties for underpayment.

What if you cannot afford to pay your taxes? If your return is complete but you are unable to pay the full amount due, do not request an extension. File your return on time and pay as much as you can. The IRS will send you a bill or notice for the balance due. You can also apply for an installment payment plan or file Form 9465 with your return.

What if you cannot complete your return in time? If you cannot file your income tax return by April 15th, both the IRS and states allow you to extend your filing deadline by six months. However, this is an extension to file your return, not an extension to pay the taxes that you owe. You are still required to estimate and pay the tax that you will owe, otherwise you could be assessed penalties and monthly interested.

For more information on filing an extension on your tax return, visit the IRS website.

Visit Feed the Pig for more money-saving tips.

MirrorMate Love and a GIVEAWAY

2010-04-02T04:12:00.000-07:00

MirrorMate Love and a GIVEAWAY

Weekly Savings Tip: March 29, 2010

2010-03-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Keep Some Investments Liquid

Are you planning a major purchase this year? If so, make sure to keep some of your investments liquid. The liquidity of an asset refers to how quickly it can be converted to cash without penalty. So, if you are planning a significant expenditure, is important to have liquid assets to avoid pulling from a long-term investment or a retirement fund at an inopportune time.Most long-term accounts will penalize you for withdrawing your money too early. Some will take away the interest that you have earned; others will actually dip into the principal that you have invested. Utilize a high-yield savings account, a short-term CD or a money market account to have funds accessible when you need them.

Click here for the Six Keys to Successful Investing.

Our Wedding: The BEST Best Man EVER!

2010-03-13T12:55:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone! Please forgive my absence, but life has been hectic! Anywho, we're having work done in our home today, so it's a good opportunity to get a post in.

We had the.best.bestman.EVER at our wedding. (Notice the use of "we". Yes, I know that he was supposed to be Mr. CB's best man, but he literally took care of me, too.)

He ran around the night before in an unfamiliar city to get my last-minutes needs. He made sure I ate before the wedding. He made sure Mr. CB was on time. This was HUGE. I don't think I've ever eluded to this, but my hubby (bless his heart) will be late to the birthing of our first child. I've already accepted and come to grips with it...

I digress...our BM ended up running our reception program, giving the most heartfelt toast, washing dishes (I'm STILL trying to figure this one out...), and keeping the dance floor bumpin!

Enjoy the pics!

I know this is a photo of us, but if you focus over Mr. CB's left shoulder - it takes a real friend to be THAT happy for you :)
And here he is holding me up...4" heels + grass = wobbly bride

Master of Ceremonies
Here, here!
These two have been friends for EONS!

Party over here...

Weekly Savings Tip: March 8, 2010

2010-03-09T04:46:00.000-08:00

Happy International Women's Day

Today is International Women's Day, an annual celebration that highlights economic, political and social achievements of women. 2009 marked the first year that half of all the U.S. workers are women. Nearly four in ten mothers are primary breadwinners and bring home a majority of the family's income. Additionally, women are more likely than men to graduate from college, although they still typically earn less than men.

Women are also more likely than men to care for children or elderly or disabled family members. These periods of caretaking can provide gaps in a woman's career which can have a huge impact on the amount of retirement funds collected over time. A 2008 report showed that elderly women over 75 are far more likely to be poor than elderly men.

It's important for all women to think about their future and retirement. There are ways to begin now, such as investing in a tax-deferred retirement savings plan at work. These plans can help accumulate funds over time. Other options may include a IRA, such as a Roth IRA which is funded by after-tax contributions. If invested early enough, these accounts can continue to accumulate interest during a gap in a woman's career, whether for caretaking purposes or any other reason.

For more information for women, check out our Section for Women that features articles, calculators, and frequently asked questions. Visit www.feedthepig.org for more money-saving tips.

I Won! I Won!!!

2010-03-09T04:39:00.000-08:00

Remember the giveaway I shared with you? Well...guess who won?!?!?!?!?!? (I guess the title kinda gives it away...)

Yep. Me! I am sooooooooooo excited! I never win anything and I won this gorgeous necklace! And just as I was trying to up my game in the jewelry department.

TAG! You're It!

2010-03-04T05:14:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Dana at Sweeping Through Life. I have never done one of these, so here goes! The rules are as follows:

List 10 things that make you happy.
Tag 10 other bloggers and link back to the person who tagged you.
Well, here it goes.......

1. Hanging out with the hubby. This is my absolute FAVORITE thing in the world!

2. Spending time with my family. Since we live several hours away, this time is few and far between.

3. Decorating our home.

4. Just enjoying being home. I can spend so much time just "being" there. Bliss. Sidenote: this worked to my advantage during the Snowtorious B.I.G. of 2010. Can we say 9 days straight in the house?

5. Traveling. I like seeing new places and experiencing new things.

6. Shoes. Finding and wearing a great pair of shoes makes me happy.

7. Shopping

8. Work. As corny as it may sound, and as much as I may complain sometime - I do enjoy serving the American public.

9."In the Heat of the Night" - there is something about that show that I just LURVE!

10. DVR - how else would I see a noon episode of ITHOTN???

Weekly Savings Tip - Happy Pig Day!

2010-03-02T07:25:00.000-08:00

March 1 is National Pig Day! Benjamin Bankes wants you to take five minutes out of your day to revamp your savings. Reserving one day a month to examine your financial goals and your current spending habits can go a long way toward kicking expensive hobbies and excessive spending.

What have you spent money on recently? Are you paying off as much of your debt as possible, starting with the debt with highest interest rate? Can you save money by changing up your morning routine? Are you planning any large purchases in the near future and have you been saving for them?

Click here to REVAMP your savings (and have some fun revamping Benjamin Bankes while you are at it).

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Share this tip with your friends.

Weekly Savings Tip: February 22, 2010

2010-02-22T12:11:00.000-08:00

How the CARD Act May Impact You

The CARD Act, signed into law last May, goes into effect today. Among other items, the new act will eliminate double-cycle billing, arbitrary rate increases and hefty fees for exceeding your credit limit. While many of these changes are positive, always read the fine print and be aware of credit card traps. Here is a brief summary of some of the changes the CARD Act will bring.
• In an effort to counteract the lost revenue credit card issuers may see due to the CARD Act, banks and other card issuers may begin implementing new fees or raising existing ones. Because the new law does not restrict the types of fees issuers can introduce, be sure you know exactly what you're being charged for.
• Credit card companies may begin placing restrictions on reward programs if you make late payments. To help avoid this situation, be sure to make your payments on time and read all notices sent by your credit card company, including those regarding changes to their rewards program.
• One of the primary benefits the CARD Act brings are a series of limits on how and when credit card companies can set interest rates. Previously, issuers could raise your interest rate just for missing a single payment without giving much notice. The CARD Act states that consumers must be alerted 45 days in advance before raising their rates.
T

his is America Saves Week (February 21-28)! Take time this week to assess your savings by taking action and developing a plan to improve your personal savings. The America Saves Web site is an excellent resource for additional tips and advice to help you set aside more.

Also take this quiz to test your current financial literacy IQ while learning savvy saving tactics.Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Our Wedding: The Bridal Party Processional

2010-02-22T09:04:00.000-08:00

And here they are...

My dear friend and sorority sister that also happens to be a coworker...

Our Godson's father and dear friend...

My legal guru, friend, and sorority sister...she happened to be present the day that Mr. CB and I reconnected...

Mr. CB's younger brother (definitely can't call him the "little" brother)

My sorority sister/ex-roommate/friend/partner in crime/the list goes on and on and on...

Mr. CB's cousin and fraternity brother

Mr. CB's cousin and friend that I have grown to love dearly...

Mr. CB's friend and college homie

My cousin

My BFF (before Mr. CB, of course) and former classmate. He was present when Mr. CB and I met for the first time and they have grown to be great friends, too.

My Matron of Honor and dear friend - mother of our Godson, sorority sister/former classmate/shopping buddy/homie...one of my dearest friends on Earth...

Our (my) beautiful niece - I hope her Daddy is getting his target practice in!

Our (my) handsome nephew...Here Comes the Bride!

And our (my) other handsome nephew...LAST CHANCE! Sidenote, these banners were definitely a labor of love. Add the amount of time and effort that it took plus hiding them from Mr. CB and it equals a PITA! I wouldn't have traded it for anything, LOL!

For some reason, I lurve this shot!

Can you guess who he's waiting for? ;)

Ciao Bella,

Weekly Savings Tip: February 15, 2010

2010-02-17T06:25:00.001-08:00

Online Bill Pay

The internet has given us many modern conveniences, including online bill pay. Paying bills online can save you the effort of writing checks and stuffing envelopes, and ensure that your bills are always paid on time. Unsure if your bank offers online bill pay? Speak to your bank about available options and if any fees are involved.

Here are some advantages to online bill pay.

• Many banks have a database of companies to choose from when setting up your online bill pay, making the setup process easier. Additionally, you only need to enter a company's information once and it will be saved to your account, as opposed to manually writing checks for each bill.

• Avoid late fees and processing fees by setting up automatic payments. If you know your bill will be the same amount each month, taking advantage of automatic electronic payments will give you one less thing to worry about.

• Paying your bills online reduces the chance for human error and conveniently groups all your bills into a single location, giving you control over every aspect of your bill paying process. Just a few clicks and you're good to go!

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Giveaway Alert

2010-02-15T14:28:00.000-08:00

Bianca over at Deals for the Short and Curvy is hosting a giveaway in honor of her one year blogaversary. How generous is that?!?!?!?!?

To celebrate, she's giving away this beauty

It's called the "Inspire" Pendant. Check her out!

Our Wedding: The Family Processional

2010-02-10T14:23:00.000-08:00

Our ceremony was near and dear to both of us - but especially me. Because we were married in my hometown, my family has some history with the church that we married in.

Here are a few pictures

The aisle

Our Hostesses

The Musician

Mr. CB entering the ceremony with our officiants

This is one of those sentimental parts of our ceremony. The first officiant is my Uncle - my Father's older brother. The second is my first cousin - also on my Father's side of the family. My cousin had been recently ordained, and we were his very first wedding!

My brother and his beautiful wife

Father of the Groom

Beautiful Mother of the Groom

My Grammy

Isn't she jazzy???

Sister of the Groom and her hubby

I know I may be slightly partial, but I think we have some good-lookin family! :)

Weekly Savings Tip: February 8, 2010

2010-02-08T18:08:00.000-08:00

Creative Ideas to Save on Your Wedding

Your wedding may be a year or more away but you're probably already aware that the big day can be expensive. Use the months leading up to the big day to budget and plan. Here are some tips to help ensure that money is the last thing on your mind
when you say "I do."

• Date: If you avoid planning your wedding on a Saturday, or during the months of June and August, vendors may be more accessible, and less expensive. Also keep in mind that brunch and lunch are less expensive than dinner.

• Spirits: Alcoholic beverages dramatically increase the cost of any event. One money saving idea would be to hold the wedding earlier in the day. Another option would be to only offer wine and champagne.

• Location: Consider free locations to host your wedding, such as your home, a friend's home or a park. Additionally, your church or synagogue will likely be less expensive than commercial venues. Having the freedom to choose your own caterer or bring your own beverages can also be a great cost saver.

• Decorations: When it comes to the flowers and decorations, keep it simple! Try your local farmer's market, where you can choose from a wide variety of flowers that are grown locally and in season. Also consider working with local florists' programs at technical colleges or high schools to make your wedding a final project for a student.

• Invitations: Discount warehouses or online stationery stores may be an inexpensive option, since you generally get the same quality in exchange for a smaller selection. Or try getting a simple printed card and adding your own creative details.

Remember that the wedding only marks the beginning of a partnership that extends to your finances! Read more financial tips on Couples & Marriage.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Our Pre-Baby Bucket List

2010-02-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

It seems that since the wedding, EVERYONE has been baby-crazed. Not saying that we don't want children, but there are a few other things we would like to be able to do before our lives are turned upside down as well as preparing for any new additions. We also understand that the timing is ultimately left in God's hands, but we can do our best to be as prepared as possible.

Some things are just to secure more financial comfort...some things are just pure fun!

Without further adieu, here's our pre-baby bucket list...

Eliminate the PMI on our home (in progress)
Build the Emergency Fund (in progress)
Invest said fund (in progress)
Baby fund (in progress)
Find a church home (in progress)
Life Insurance (check!)
Have a budget (check!)
Reassess Insurance (check!)
Get involved in community/volunteer work (in progress)
Get Disability Insurance
Exercise regularly (Me)
Have a Cinco de Mayo Party
Declutter our home (in progress)
Decorate our Home (in progress)
Attend the Essence Festival in New Orleans
Attend Steve Harvey’s Hoodie Awards
Attend a live Tyler Perry/Madea play
Visit Chicago
Participate in a Christian Couples’ Book Club (in progress)
Complete our wedding shadow box
Weekly Date Nights (in progress)
Visit Disney World
Treat our Parents to a really nice vacation (or something similar)
Pay off all credit card debt (in progress)
Visit a vineyard for wine tasting
Sleep in on weekends
Take up a hobby, as a couple

For now, I'll just enjoy being a DINK ;)

Do you have any types of bucket lists?

Our Wedding Day: Love is in the Air...

2010-02-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

...as was

and

We decided to wear special fragrances on our special day. Thank God we did - we were able to get some alone time during the crazy week before to go out and find our signature scents. Not only that, but now we get to wear them on special occasions (or date weekly nights, in our case) to relive that day.

This was probably one of the simplest, yet best ideas that we followed through with!

What's your signature scent?

Our Wedding Day: A Special Gift

2010-01-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I'll let the photos tell this story.

Enjoy!

Ciao Bella,

TheConsciousBride

Our Wedding: My Ensemble and Meet the Girls!

2010-01-13T09:04:00.000-08:00

As promised, here's my ensemble for the best day of my life:

And we can't forget these:

I wish there were words to describe how comfortable these are! Okay, so there are....can you believe I managed to stay in them until we left the reception?!?!?!? Yep! And I danced. And danced. And danced some more! Believe it or not, I actually lead the stroll line with my awesome Sorority Sisters (pictures to come)! In the Loubs!

And, the day would not have been complete without these gorgeous ladies:

It's all about the shoes!

Did I mention that we also had some GORGEOUS hostesses?

Since I wasn't able to show pics of some of my maids before, here are a few of them in all their beauty:

Lakina AKA the Most "Bout IT" Bridesmaid EVA!

Leah the Diva (also pretty darn BOUT IT):

Sidenote: Do you know how many people asked me if she was/is a model??? And I had the privilege of having her grace our wedding photos!!! How lucky are we?!?!?!

ChaFonda

This is my first cousin who was always like a sister...

Shannon the GigglePot

This is actually Mr. CB's cousin. She instantly embraced me like we had grown up together...

Chanelle, Queen of the Side-Eye

And last, but certainly not least - my MOH, Shonetta AKA Christian's Mommy

And just for fun, here are some randoms:

Negotiating use of the Crackberry

SUCCESS!

Ciao Bella,

TheConsciousBride

Our Wedding Day: My Handsome Groom

2010-01-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

Since these posts are feeling a little girl heavy, I'll share some of my fave shots of my handsome groom (and his guys). Let's face it - there would be no wedding day without him!

I'll double back and post the bride's ensemble and all the maids in one posting.

Enjoy!

This is one of my absolute faves (can you tell I have ALOT of faves)!

His Best Man, Chevis

Aren't they all handsome??? And let's not even talk about swag?!?!!?

LOVING this shot:

:::: SWOON::::

:::Wipes drool from keyboard:::

Ciao Bella,

TheConsciousBride

Our Wedding Day: Details

2010-01-11T06:59:00.000-08:00

One thing I can say about Mango Pixels Photography, Joyce has an uncanny knack of paying special attention to detail! Here are a few of my favorite shots:

Wine for our Unity Wine Ceremony

Our corsages and bouts were delivered from the florist like this:

When I saw "groom" attached to Mr. CB's bout - it all became real for me!

This was a very special gift from my brother's wife or *GULP* sister-in-law. This hanky was given to her on her wedding day.

The hanky (something old) and sapphire earring (something blue) were given to her by my Mom. She added the shiny 2009 penny for my something new. My Mother has since gone on to be with God, but how SWEET was my sister (in-law) to pass on such a treasured heirloom?!?!?! I know she's technically my sister-in-law, but it's really hard to call her that. She's more of a sister-from-another-mother.

And here she is (making sure everything is everything):

(Now you see why I can't call her my SIL?)

And here I am all made-up with no where to go (and still finishing one last DIY)...

Ciao Bella,

TheConsciousBride

Our Wedding Day: Getting Ready

2010-01-08T07:01:00.000-08:00

We were married on October 24, 2009 in the beautiful Lundy Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in beautiful Macon, Georgia. The forecast predicted an icky, rainy day; but as you can see from this photo, it was anything but:

The girls and I met at the church hours before to have makeup done and just enjoy hanging out with one another once again. Most of my bridesmaids had met each other at one point or another, as they have all been really important in my life - not to mention that most of us were all sorority sisters.

Shonetta

Lakina

Leah

There were three other beautiful bridesmaids, but somehow I didn't manage to get pictures of them. You'll meet them a little later :)

Ciao Bella,
Johnetta

I'm BACK!

2010-01-07T08:08:00.001-08:00

So. Thanks to my good friend over at Becoming His Mrs., I've decided to recap our wedding. I admit that I fell off of the blogging train near the end, but I hope to make up for it. The up side is that I get to do it with PROFESSIONAL PICTURES (BTW, these are a few of my fave)! YAY!

So, sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. For those faithful 26....THANK YOU!

Johnetta

NOTE: All photos courtesy of Mango Pixels.

Weekly Savings Tip: January 04, 2010

2010-01-04T12:22:00.000-08:00

COBRA Premium Subsidy Program Extended

On December 19, 2009, President Obama signed into law the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010, which extends the 65 percent COBRA premium subsidy to February 28, 2010.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provided a government subsidy of 65 percent of the cost of COBRA coverage for employees (and their eligible family members) who lost their health insurance coverage due to involuntary termination of employment in 2009. In addition to the subsidy being extended to 15 months, employees who lose their jobs in January or February of 2010 will still be eligible.

For more information on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Web site.

Visit the Life Crisis section on the 360 Financial Literacy Web site for additional information on receiving unemployment benefits.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

Weekly Savings Tip: December 28, 2009

2009-12-29T07:28:00.001-08:00

Post-Holiday Savings

Consumers should see a healthy selection of goods during post-holiday sales. Knowing where to look and how to make the most of these sales is crucial for avoiding long lines and getting the most bang for your buck.

• Shortly after the holidays, retailers will fill the newspapers, touting their sales. Take advantage of these sales by looking over the circulars in your area. Keep your eyes open for good deals on everyday items and even gifts for next year.

• If you are buying discounted sale merchandise, be sure you are fully aware of the return policy. Being able to return items for a full cash refund is a benefit that should not be overlooked.

• Being familiar with the warranty on the items that you purchase can save you time, money, and frustration, especially when it comes to appliances, computers, or other electronics. If you're unfamiliar with the store, read reviews to see if you can gauge customer satisfaction.

• Lastly, if you're not willing to brave the post-holiday shopping traffic or crowds, consider waiting until after the New Year when sales and money-saving opportunities will be just as plentiful.

Visit

www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips

Weekly Savings Tip: December 21, 2009

2009-12-22T06:23:00.000-08:00

What Investors Need to Understand to Avoid Fraud

As most investors know, risk is an inherent part of investing; it is what makes the reward of positive returns possible. Too often, investors focused on big returns are persuaded to enter into what turn out to be fraudulent schemes promising the moon and the stars for little or no risk. Here are some resources to help educate you:

Tricks of the Trade: Outsmarting Investment Fraud – FINRA Investor Education.

Investment Fraud Awareness Quiz – North American Securities
Administrators Association.

Consumer Fraud/Investor Protection Resources – Employee Benefit Research Institute/Choose to Save.

Click here to see a list of all 12 resources for understanding and avoiding fraud, by the nonprofit Alliance for Investor Education (AIE).

For more information on investing and fraud prevention, visit the Investment Planning section

of the 360 Financial Literacy website.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

Weekly Savings Tip: December 07, 2009

2009-12-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

Winter Savings Tips

This winter, keep your family cozy and your wallet insulated by following
these easy steps:

• Dial back your thermostat 1 degree cooler during the winter season to help slash your energy bill.

• Caulk around window frames, door frames and seams on the outside of the house to keep heat in and cold air out.

• Take advantage of your body's natural heat. Wear sweaters, warm socks and long pants around the house.

• Use a programmable thermostat to automatically control your home's temperature. It can keep your house cooler during the day and warmer during the evenings. This could save you an average of $180 a year.

Following these tips can immediately reduce your energy costs. Learn more Winter Savings Tips.

Vendor Reviews

2009-11-30T11:16:00.000-08:00

Hola! I know I have been MIA, but I have really been enjoying being his Mrs.! I did, however, want to be sure that I shared our experiences and vendor reviews.

You can see them here.

NOTE: This is not a complete list as I have not reviewed our photographer nor videographer. Instead of the rating system, I based my reviews on whether or not I would rehire a particular vendor.

Adios!

PS: I hope this helps a fellow bride :)

Weekly Savings Tip: November 17, 2009

2009-11-17T04:32:00.000-08:00

First-time Homeowner Tax Credit Extended
with Important Changes

On November 6, 2009, President Obama signed into law the Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009, which includes a provision to extend the first-time homebuyer tax credit originally created in July 2008 with the Housing and Economic Recovery Act. This extension applies for new homes purchased before May 1, 2010; for members of the military whose duties have taken them overseas, the credit extends until May of 2011.

The new legislation includes some important changes for those buying a home after it was signed into law. These changes include:

• Higher income limits now apply. The credit is reduced if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) exceeds $125,000 ($225,000 if married filing a joint return) and is completely eliminated if your MAGI is $145,000 ($245,000 if
married filing a joint return).

• A credit of up to $8,000 will still apply to qualifying first-time buyers, and a smaller credit of up to $6,500 will now apply to families that have lived in their homes for at least five years and wish to purchase a new home.

• If you (and your spouse, if you're married) have maintained the same principal residence for at least five consecutive years in the eight year period ending at the time you purchase a new principal residence, you could qualify for a credit of up to $6,500 ($3,250 if you're married and file separately).

For more information and to decide if taking advantage of these new rules is for you, visit the White House’s Fact Sheet on the Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Web site for details on the original Housing and Economic Recovery Act.

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Bob Evans Farmhouse Feast Giveaway

2009-11-12T06:58:00.000-08:00

NOTE: This giveaway is being featured at $5 Dinners.

How would you like to have THIS…

…delivered WARM to your doorstep?!? Just in time for your holiday meal…or your holiday party…or just for dinner!

The Bob Evans Holiday Farmhouse Feast is the perfect solution for a cookless, low-stress holiday season.

The Farmhouse Feast comes complete with Bob Evans’ signature slow-roasted boneless turkey breast or sliced, boneless ham, bread and celery dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy, buttered sweet corn, green beans with ham, cranberry orange relish, rolls, a loaf of pumpkin bread and a pumpkin pie with whipped topping. The turkey and ham are both pre-cooked.

Bob Evans will also be offering the Farmhouse Feast anytime during December for your holiday entertaining or your Christmas meal. If you are interested in ordering, you can learn more on their website. The website contains ordering information, heating instructions, and a FAQ page.

So here’s how you can get this meal delivered to your doorstep…

Go to $5 Dinners to enter!

Weekly Savings Tip: November 9, 2009

2009-11-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

Smart Use of Credit Cards

As the country begins to recover from the recession, retails sales are improving and, along with them, credit card use is on the rise, according to MasterCard Advisors. As the holiday shopping season begins, keep the following in mind when applying for or using a credit card:

• Most credit cards offer rewards, such as airline tickets, cash back, car insurance or other incentives. Paying off your monthly balance to avoid interest will allow you to fully reap the benefits of the card.

• Credit card applications may often contain low interest rates to attract customers. Before you sign, research varying interest rates, minimum payment requirements, grace periods, annual fees and credit limits.

• Understand the impact that cancelling a credit card will have on your credit score. If the card is one that you've had for awhile and consistently paid off, it could negatively affect your credit rating.

• Using credit card pay off calculators will help you realize what it will take to pay off your balance, and what personal spending habits you can change to meet your repayment goals.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

Weekly Savings Tip: October 5, 2009

2009-10-06T13:23:00.000-07:00

Calculate How Much You’re Worth

Do you know how much you'll be worth when retirement comes? A recent Gallup Poll revealed that 52 percent of Americans are worried they won’t have enough money to live comfortably once they retire. Use this Retirement Estimator Calculator to determine your Social Security earnings and help plan for the future.

Additionally, non-retirees expect to rely on several income sources in retirement. For more information on these income sources, click the links below:

Social Security
Stocks or mutual fund investments
Savings accounts or CDs
401(k) or other retirement accounts
Annuities or insurance plans
Home equity
Pension plans

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

Weekly Savings Tip: September 28, 2009

2009-09-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

Credit cards can help build a good credit history but improper use can be disastrous. Being knowledgeable and reading the fine print may save you money and prevent unnecessary charges. If you have one or more credit cards, consider the following tips:

• Credit card applications may offer low interest rates to attract customers. Before you sign, research the card’s varying interest rates, minimum payment requirements, grace periods, annual fees and credit limits before you
open a new account.

• Make payments on time to avoid possible automatic rate increases and other credit card pitfalls.

• Pay off your monthly balance to avoid interest and to fully reap the benefits or rewards your card may come with (cash back, frequent flier miles, etc.).

• Understand the effect that cancelling a credit card will have on your credit score. If the card is one that you've had for awhile and consistently paid off, it could negatively affect your credit rating.

• Credit bureaus offer a toll-free number that enables you to “opt-out” of having pre-approved credit offers sent to you. Call 1-888-5-OPTOUT (888-567-8688) or visit www.optoutprescreen.com for more information.

Read more on paying off credit card debt.

Weekly Savings Tip: September 21, 2009

2009-09-21T12:48:00.001-07:00

Fall Saving Strategies

As the summer months wane and the chilly weather of fall begins, consider doing some upkeep on your home in order to save on energy costs. Here are some simple ways to ensure that your house and wallet are properly insulated:

• Clean or replace your furnace filters once a month. Dirty filters can block warm air from the furnace and make it operate less efficiently, costing you money.

• Lower your thermostat 5 to 7 degrees at night. Your energy savings will increase as much as 3-5 percent for every degree the thermostat is below 68.

• Keep your shades and curtains open during the day to let in sunlight and warmth. Close them at night to retain heat.

• Weatherize your home by caulking and weather-stripping all exterior
doors and windows.

Learn more fall savings tips.

Have any other green ideas that will help you save this season? Register on www.FeedthePig.org to post your comments on the message boards!

Bridal Brunch: September 13, 2009

2009-09-18T07:14:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday I had the pleasure of enjoying brunch with one of my bridesmaids and a couple of coworkers. Since we don't live close to either of our families, I won't have a traditional bridal shower, but I thought it was awesome of my coworkers to celebrate us!

Mimosas, waffles, omelets, crab legs, and shrimp - YUM! And don't forget CAKE!

2009-09-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

Our hostesses and ushers are an extra-special part/addition to our day. They will be :uber: important in making sure our guests are comfortable and everyone is happy at the reception. They will be wearing the wedding colors so that they stand out, and we've decided on this
and this for the guys (with black slacks and black shirts):

Weekly Savings Tip: September 14, 2009

2009-09-14T12:38:00.001-07:00

End-of-Life PlanLife can change quite suddenly and unexpectedly. Decision-making during these stressful and vulnerable times can be difficult and the results can often have far–reaching consequences. The key is knowing the issues and having a plan in place before the unexpected happens.
Whether you are currently dealing with the loss of a loved one, caring for an aging parent, or own a business or have children and need to be ready for the future, a new free resource, A Guide to Financial Decisions: Implementing an End-of-Life Plan, will identify many of the issues, decisions and programs of which you should be aware, such as:- Guardianship for Minor Children: Choosing the person who will care for your child if you are unable to do so is a critical decision for all parents. Learn why it’s important to name a guardian in a legally executed will or trust so that your children are cared for by the person you designate.- Titles: Choosing the person to be the listed owner, or “title holder,” to your various assets, such as your home and financial accounts, is an important decision. Learn more about the steps to take to ensure that your wishes are known and respected.- Life Insurance: One of the most common reasons for buying life insurance is to replace the loss of income that would occur in the event of your death. Learn about the common types of life insurance policies to ensure there are funds available to support your family in the case of your untimely death.This guide, developed by certified public accountants, is the result of a vision brought to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants by Hospice of Michigan and the Michigan Association of Certified Public Accountants.
For more information, visit the 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy Web site.Visit http://click.bsftransmit1.com/ClickThru.aspx?pubids=lOq6Zi%2bzrWLqi1JWXun6Jc8No6wyvjR7QQxjXtqXYuE%3d&digest=P3VNOIwDruOLOUTSdVW0%2bg for more money-saving tips!

Our Photo Guestbook

2009-09-13T07:04:00.000-07:00

Can you believe I ordered this from Picaboo (half off) on 09/08...and UPS dropped it off on 09/10?!?!?!? Can we say unbelievable service??

Great quality. Here are a couple of the pages. I'll have black, pink, and metallic gold pens for guests to sign.

(Excuse the crappy Blackberry pics).

EDIT: I hopped on over to Michaels (armed with a 40% off coupon) and grabbed some metallic-y writing scrapbooking markers and it's done!

YAY for checks!

Weekly Savings Tip: September 9, 2009

2009-09-09T10:39:00.001-07:00

Annuities as an Investment Option

Your retirement may be decades away but it’s important to start saving and investing now. Consider annuities, a retirement funding strategy that was often neglected in the face of a boom economy. Now, however, the stability of an annuity often looks just as appealing as other retirement funding options. Here are some basic facts to help you decide whether an annuity might be right for you:

- An annuity is a tax-deferred investment contract. You invest your money (either a lump sum or a series of contributions) with a company that sells annuities, such as life insurance and mutual fund companies and banks. In exchange for your investment, the annuity issuer promises to make payments to you or a named beneficiary at certain points in the future.

- Rates of return and costs can vary widely between different annuities, so shop around! You'll also want to shop around for a reputable, financially sound annuity issuer. There are firms that make a business of rating insurance companies based on their financial strength, investment performance, and other factors.

- Payout options, also known as annuitization options, differ based on how you’ve elected to spread payments over the coming years. The amount of each payment depends on such factors as the amount of your principal investment, the particular type of annuity, the length of the payout period and your age if you elect for
lifetime payments.

Annuities may be a good option to explore if you’re looking for investment options outside the stock market. As with any investment, remember to research and educate yourself before making any decisions. For more information visit the Retirement Planning section of the 360 Financial Literacy website.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips!

Invitation LOVE!

2009-08-30T11:12:00.000-07:00

If you remember, I posted here about how I just wasn't in love with my invitations. Even admist catering issues, I set out to find those that made me drool. I enlisted the help of my wonderful SIL (designedbygrace09@gmail.com) and dearest FI... Without further delay, here are the mock-ups of our invitations.

And of course, Mr. CB hard at work...

My darling SIL worked hard and never griped about my million edits. She even enlisted again to do our programs. Unfortunately, we never took any pictures of the programs, BUT they are GORGE.

Weekly Savings Tip: August 17, 2009

2009-08-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

What's Your Financial IQ?

According to a recent survey conducted by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, almost half of Americans between the ages of 18 and 34 have no savings. Additionally, 47 percent of Generation Y respondents gave themselves Cs, Ds or Fs in personal finance skills such as budgeting and saving for retirement.

The time to act is now! Take this short quiz to test your financial literacy IQ so you can improve your personal finance savvy.

This quiz is a good starting point, but the more you educate yourself on personal finances and savings, the more prepared you'll be when facing financial situations in the future. Be smart, and remember to feed the pig!

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Weekly Savings Tip - August 10, 2009

2009-08-11T06:25:00.000-07:00

Avoid Overdraft Fees

Did you know the median overdraft fee on a checking account is $26? Here are steps to take to avoid this penalty:

1. Don't trust your "Available Balance." Many financial institutions engage in a practice where they will reflect a direct deposit in your "Available Balance" but will charge overdraft fees on any transactions that occur prior to the deposit actually posting. Any purchases that are made which exceed the previous running balance during the time BEFORE the direct deposit actually posts will result in overdraft charges even though the bank shows the funds as available.

2. Balance your checkbook. Not only will balancing your checkbook help you avoid overdraft fees, but it'll also give you a firm knowledge of how much money is in your account, which helps you prevent bounced checks and detect errors from your bank.

3. Pay cash. Or use a debit card. When you don't pay with a check, you don't have to worry about when the payment will clear. Many people forget that they've written checks, then spend the money that should have been sitting in the account for the check to clear.

4. Create an artificial buffer. Decide on a certain amount that you will always have in your account, and never dip into it. Subtract it out of your checkbook so that the balance you see is what you can spend.

Visit Feed the Pig for more money-saving tips!

Invitations - How Important Are They?

2009-08-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

So. In my humble opinion, invitations set the tone for your celebration. I had previously had some designed, but have since fell out of love with them. Here they are:

Don't get me wrong, they are nice - but they just don't have that WOW factor that I'm looking for.

With that being said, I stumbled across these. Can we just say absolutely GAW-JUS?!?!?!? Oh my! However, can I get these designed, printed and mailed in 3 weeks?

At any rate, ENJOY!

Images from Etsy
And these:

Images from PW's Jojo

Beer, Wine and Bellini Bar?

2009-08-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Technically a Bellini is white peach puree and Prosecco. That’s it. However, it seems that today people loosely associate the term Bellini with just about any fruit and Prosecco combination.

The day before the party I can make several fruit purees so they would be ready to go the next day. These are super easy to make. At that time of year using frozen fruit will probably be best

Here's the recipe for the fruit puree:

Fruit Puree
1 pound of frozen fruit, such as strawberries, peaches or blueberries, defrosted
1/3 - 1/2 cup simple syrup
Water

Place the frozen fruit in a blender. Add some of the simple syrup and a splash of water. Blend until the mixture is very smooth. You will need to pause the blender now and then to taste, add a bit more simple syrup until the fruit has reached your desired level of sweetness. Once that has been reached add enough water to make the puree thin enough to pour.

Puree can be made a day or two ahead of time and held in the refrigerator.

At the wedding, the guests can choose which flavors appeal to them and even mix purees to make their own custom blends. In addition to the purees we may offer other options such as orange juice (which, when mixed with sparkling wine actually makes a Mimosa) or fruit nectars such as Guava or Mango. The addition of the fruit juices also adds a non-alcoholic option for your guests.

With that being said, what do you think of my beer, wine, and bellini bar menu to help keep costs low for our celebration?

Welcome to Macon! - OOT Box

2009-08-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Found these today and fell in LOVE. Our boxes will have a "Georgia" theme and include a welcome brochure, old-timey glass bottle of Coca-Cola Classic, peach candles, personalized matches, snacks, and either peach preserves or some type of University of Georgia memorabilia.

Weekly Savings Tip: August 3, 2009

2009-08-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

Back-to-School Savings

With the beginning of another year of school around the corner, it’s a good idea to get an early start on back-to-school shopping.

• Buy a lunch box. Constantly buying brown paper bags is not only a waste of paper, it’s also a waste of money. Buy your child a lunch box and pack their lunches. For fun and easy bag lunch ideas, check the internet for sites like this.

• Start a “back-to-school” fund. Shopping for school supplies can be costly and seem like a big expense if taken all at once. Start a fund for next year’s supplies at the beginning of this school year. Next year, not only will you already have saved money, but by stashing it into a savings account, the interest might net you an extra notebook.

• Don’t waste leftovers. Check the unused supplies from the previous year. There might be extra notebooks, folders and pencils lying around the house.

• Check for coupons. Don’t underestimate the power of shopping early before the prices are increased for back-to-school items. Buy in bulk if you get a good deal—stored school supplies have a long shelf life. If you are shopping for clothing, always shop for the previous season once the new one starts.

• Forget about designer labels. This is true not only for clothing, but school supplies as well. There is always a generic version of an article of clothing or school supply that is much less expensive but just as good.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Weekly Savings Tip: July 28, 2009

2009-07-28T05:27:00.001-07:00

Saving Your Social Life Without Hurting Your Savings

Saving money during the summer can be tough if you have an active social life or like to travel on the weekends. Here are some great tips for inexpensive outings to help both your social life and your budget.

• Go out on a picnic: Picnics are much less expensive than dining out and can be an all-day or afternoon activity. Invite friends to play Frisbee or touch football after you eat. If you are planning a date, make it more romantic by going somewhere with a lot of natural beauty to enjoy.

• Visit a museum or historic building: Visiting a museum or historic building isn’t just for tourists and admission prices are usually reasonable. You can also look for free, reduced price or “pay what you want” days or evenings.

• Spend the evening at your place: An underrated way to spend time is to have everyone over to your house. Ask everyone to bring ingredients for a dish to cook together and rent a movie to end the night.

• Take advantage of the summer weather: Grab a couple of friends or your significant other and head to the beach. Enjoy the entire day in the water or on the sand without spending a lot of money. When it gets dark walk into the local town for dinner or ice cream.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

From Essence: The Obamas’ Relationship Stimulus Plan: Their 7 Secrets for a Rock-Solid Partnership

2009-07-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

I LOVE to hear of positive relationships, so I thought I'd share...

"I find President and Mrs. Obama to be so much more relatable than any previous White House occupants. And it's not just their brown skin. Two kids. Two careers. PB&J in the pantry and playthings in the yard. They seem a lot like my husband and me. And as they approach 17 years of marriage, they always appear so loving toward each other. When I see reports of them having date night at the theater or in an intimate bistro, I'm frequently reminded that it's the little things, done consistently, that make love last. Barack and Michelle demonstrate that brand of authentic commitment we see often in our communities but so rarely in the media. As I look forward to celebrating seven years with my sweetie next month, I thought I'd share (and remember to take to heart) seven keys to Love, Obama Style.

1. Insist on couple time. For parents, that means not letting the time and energy you spend nourishing your kids result in you starving your marriage. The First Couple's weekend in Paris this spring is a great example of getting the balance just right. While sightseeing on the river Seine and at Notre Dame was a family affair, mom and dad enjoyed an intimate dinner alone at a cozy restaurant later.

2. Keep your promises, no matter what. "I am taking my wife to New York City because I promised her during the campaign that I would take her to a Broadway show after it was all finished," the President told reporters at the airport on the way to another much-publicized night on the town. By the time he was able to make good on the promise, pulling it off was no longer as simple as ordering a couple of tickets. Two helicopters, a small Air Force jet, barricades to keep the paparazzi at bay and security screenings at both the restaurant and the theater were required to make the evening a success. Given all the fuss, he could have easily begged off. But he decided to stay true to his boo.

3. Praise each other in public, share constructive feedback in private. Playful quips about dirty socks aside, Mrs. Obama has frequently shared that she fell in love with her husband's authenticity, truth and principles. The President speaks adoringly of his better half, calling her "the love of my life" in his victory speech, "good looking" at the Inaugural and even "a better dancer" on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

4. Touch each other, often. She holds his hand. He places one on the small of her back while walking. These little wordless ways of saying "you matter to me" can create a bond stronger than that Mighty Mendit Super Glue sold on infomercials.

5. Share and support your spouse's dreams without losing sight of your own. You say you want to be the first Black man in the White House? How many wives would have said "Um, good luck with that!" Our partners face the world with a "Yes we can" attitude when we show them our unflinching belief in their goals and abilities. But don't look to Mrs. Obama to support the status quo as a cookie-cutter consort. She's redefining the role of First Lady in a way that stays true to her own ideals and passions.

6. Read and respect one another's signals. When things are tense, you may not feel like talking. Picking up on nonverbal cues is key. During the campaign, a Ladies Home Journal reporter asked Michelle "How can you tell when your husband is really stressed?" "When he is writing small notes late at night. When he's really brooding," Mrs. O. said. "That's when I know [to ask], ‘What happened? What's going on?'"

7) Laugh—and pray!—together often. The Obamas share giggles and gaffaws on a regular basis. They also share God. I'm glad to know that after months of church shopping in their new city, they've found, in a chapel at Camp David, a new place to call their spiritual home."

Weekly Savings Tip: July 20, 2009

2009-07-20T12:25:00.001-07:00

Get a Jump on Your Holiday Budget

While it is still summer outside, the end of the year holiday season isn’t far away for your budget. Planning now will help you manage your spending in a few more months.

• Set aside $10 a week now and you will have saved $200 by early December. That’s a small amount to pull from your wallet each week but can equal gifts for many friends and family members down the road. You will also avoid interest charges by
saving and using cash.

• Look for sales now for items you think your friends and family might like. Winter clothing, or other gifts that will still be appropriate in a few months, might be on sale this time of year. Get a jump on all the other holiday shoppers who won’t be thinking about gifts for months.

• Consider homemade gifts. Starting now will give you plenty of time to finish well before the holidays. Knit sweaters, make candles, create stationery out of photographs you take or make jam out of fresh, summer fruit. Homemade gifts are always appreciated and there are many ideas and suggestions online that are far more upscale than the macaroni necklace you made for your mother in preschool.

Remember: budgeting and planning ahead for your holiday gift giving can save you money. Decide how much you are able to spend and how many gifts you need to buy before doing your shopping. And, as always, make sure you are buying a sale item that is actually worth the listed price and not just because it is on sale.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

And It's Booked! Punta Cana - Here We Come!

2009-07-16T11:28:00.000-07:00

We have decided to spend our first vacation as husband and wife at the Gran Bahia Principe Ambar, which is an ADULTS ONLY LUXURY resort, situated within the Bahia Principe complex. Private sections of the beach, pool and restaurants will make your stay the most romantic experience of you life.

Smoke a cigar in our Cigar Lounge or take a relaxing bath in a Jacuzzi in the privacy of your own room. Sleep with your favorite pillow from the pillow-menu.

Sidenote: This may the be ONLY time in life when it's appropriate to order "one of everything!"

Feeling lazy? Call your private butler for whatever you need.

Want a little more action? Ambar members can use all the facilities from the Gran Bahia Principe Punta Cana resort. At night, the hotel has its own Shopping & entertainment center which is open 24hrs, called PUEBLO PRINCIPE. It includes shops, disco, casino, shows, live music, doctor and much more...

Did they really say private butlers?!?!?!

...and a pic of my hunnie just because :)

Weekly Savings Tip: July 14, 2009

2009-07-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

Maintaining Good Credit in Turbulent Times

Sustaining a good credit score can be difficult when you are unemployed and money is tight. Here are some tips to maintain your financial health.

• Immediately evaluate expenditures, bills and financial accounts for strengths and weaknesses. Adjust your budget accordingly and minimize discretionary spending. Identify where you can lower or perhaps cut out expenses for entertainment, dining out and vacation or holiday travel.

• Contact your financial institution to inquire if it offers a hardship program. If so, you may be able to negotiate a payment plan that may include reduced interest rates and/or a lower monthly payment.

• Understand the impact that cancelling a credit card will have on your credit score. If the card is one that you've had for some time and consistently paid off, it could negatively affect your credit rating.

A credit score is based on your bill-paying history, debt profile and other statistical information. Lenders use this to determine the likelihood of certain credit behaviors, including whether you will pay on time. Closed accounts, liens, bankruptcies and late payments are a few of the financial missteps that can negatively impact your credit score for up to 11 years.

Remember to make looking for a job your top priority. If you need more help, go to fixing your credit score, or visit 360 Financial Literacy’s website.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

Weekly Savings Tip: July 6, 2009

2009-07-10T14:54:00.000-07:00

New Clunker Bill Can Help You Save

Recently, the House passed the “clunker bill” which allows you to trade in your older, gas guzzling car, for a $4,500 discount on a new and more fuel efficient car. The bill was created as a way to both stimulate the automotive industry and help the environment. With the discount from the bill and the markdowns that certain car dealerships are offering, there are some great deals to be had. Here are some things to remember if you are considering taking part in this year-long deal.

• Research typical maintenance costs for the make and model of the car you are planning to buy. Sometimes maintenance on a particular vehicle is more expensive than average resulting in unanticipated costs.

• Consider a possible increase in car insurance rates when weighing the best deal. Call your insurance agency to find out how to reduce the insurance costs on a new car. These deductions are based on both the model of your car and its features such as passive restraints, alarms, or even anti-lock braking systems.

• Remember that not all cars qualify. Your current car must get less than 18 mpg highway and the new car must get at least 22. You can check out
your car’s mpg here http://www.fueleconomy.gov/.

Visit www.FeedthePig.org for more money-saving tips.

It's Here: My Garter

2009-07-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

Mr. CB is a graduate of Albany State University in Albany, Georgia. His school colors are blue and gold and the mascot is Ram. Thanks to the St. Louis Rams and their matching colors, my garter search was pretty easy.

Courtesy of GirlyGirl Garters

Table Number Love

2009-07-10T12:40:00.000-07:00

So I know that my posts are ALL over the place. But hey, that's the type of gal I am. You never know what's going on in this head of mine.

Today, it's table numbers. Take a peek at a few I am currently lusting over...

Source: Alden and Avery Prints and Patterns

Source: BesoDesigns

Source: Joff13

And now the pièce de résistance....

Does ANYONE have any ideas on how to DIY this or where I can buy them????

PSA: AC Moore Has Pillars on Sale!

2009-07-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

AC Moore has the plaster wedding columns (approximately 3 - 4 feet) for ONLY $6!!!

And the Winner Is...

2009-07-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

*EboneeMonique* from over at Becoming His Mrs!

NOTE: All contestants were placed into a baggie, and Mr. CB pulled the lucky winner.

Congrats, Eb! Hope you and Mr. Mister enjoy dinner on us :)

The Aisle File Giveaway: Linen Vendors

2009-07-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

Hola, Ladies and Gent!

Let me help you while you help me :) I'm currently searching for a linen vendor for my wedding. I have scoured the internet for a reasonably priced chair cover and/or tablecloth vendor.

So. Below, please post linen vendors (rental or purchase) that you may have used, plan to use, or have heard nice things about. If you are selling linens, you can even post that! Please also leave your first name as well as a link to your blog or an email address.

In return, I will randomly select one person to receive a $25 gift certificate to Restaurant.com. That's right. Dinner on me.

Oh yeah - contest ends at midnight on July 3rd.

Good luck!

Cake Plateau: I GOT IT!!!

2009-06-26T07:20:00.001-07:00

Mr. CB and I had the pleasure (not really but I'm trying really hard to be positive) of attending the wedding of one of his friends. We drove to St. Mary's, Georgia to be a part of the celebration. While things didn't turn out nearly how we expected, the trip was not a complete bust.

St. Mary's is approximately 30 minutes outside of Jacksonville, FL and among other things found there was none other than.......HOBBY LOBBY!!!! It worked out perfectly. I was able to get our cake plateau AND use a 40% off coupon (WHOO HOO!!!).

Invitation Envy

2009-06-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

Upon arriving home yesterday, I was met at the mailbox with one of the most gorgeous paper creations I have ever had the pleasure of touching.

Apparently, my old major professor's son is getting married. I was completely honored to have been invited as I graduated from his laboratory 3 years ago. I must have left my mark :)

The groom is Jewish and the bride is Indian; so this will be a merging of hearts, lives and cultures. From the invitation, I'm expecting a platinum wedding...

NWR: May He Rest In Peace

2009-06-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

Still. In. Disbelief.

I am by far not the biggest Michael Jackson fan ever, but I have grown with his music and felt the highs and lows of his career.

Upon hearing the news, I was completely DEVASTATED. Then again, I am the same person that cried miserably when his hair caught fire in the 1983 Pepsi commercial...

I sincerely hope that Mr. Jackson is able to finally experience the peace that he was never afforded in his time here on Earth.

Rest in Peace...

Weekly Savings Tip: June 22, 2009

2009-06-23T04:44:00.000-07:00

So I receive weekly emails about one of my absolute FAVORITE topics - saving money. I've decided to share those here with my readers. ENJOY!

Sizzling Summer Savings

Have some fun in the sun without worrying about your wallet. Here are some savings tips to help beat the summer heat.

• Summer Savings Tip #4 – Consider replacing your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). They use about 75% less energy and give off 75% less heat but produce the same amount of light as incandescent bulbs.

• Summer Savings Tip #5 – Make some shade! Awnings, blinds, drapes and glass films reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your home. Install them on windows, skylights, doors and other places where the sun comes through. During the day, closing the blinds and drapes to filter sunlight will keep the room's temperature from rising.

• Summer Savings Tip #8 – On a hot, sunny day, dark-colored roofs can reach temperatures of up to 150º to 190º F, heating the living spaces below. Consider adding a reflective coating, or choosing a lighter color when it’s time
to replace the roof.

Click here for 10 Summer Savings Tips that will help you cut costs on your energy bill.

For quizzes, savings trivia and payday reminders sent to your cell phone twice a month, sign up on Feed the Pig.

If You're Feeling Anything Like I Am...

2009-06-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

How to Take a Mental Health Day Without Feeling Guilty

You can take a mental health day off from work without experiencing guilt. Here's how.

If you are the type of person that is a hard worker, and normally goes above and beyond the call of duty, sometimes you need to treat yourself to a mental health day. This is also true if you typically work beyond the 40-hour work week and are the type of employee to take work home.

All of that hard work and diligence will take its toll eventually, without some spontaneous R&R for your mind.A mental health day is not the type of day off that employers recognize or encourage. If you're reading this at work, that's probably not the best idea. Employers may provide you instead withvacation days, holidays, personal days, sick days, or even family sick days. Some employers combine one or more categories of days off, like sick/personal days. Employers don't offer mental health days.Because employers don't offer mental health days, it is up to you to take the initiative and give yourself a mental health day.

What is a Mental Health Day?

A mental health day is an unscheduled day off from work that involves doing something you enjoy doing, alone or with family and friends. A mental health day does not include doing any errands, going to the doctor's office, or cleaning the house. Sometimes the only way to get some time for yourself, away from the office, and away from the demands of your household, is to disappear for a few hours, doing whatever it is you love best. The activity you choose should be one that is fairly close to home, is not near work, and will renew you in some way. It could be going to see a movie or two by yourself. Or maybe you want to spend the day window shopping, or shopping, at your favorite mall. Your mental health day could be a trip to the local greenhouse, museum, or bookstore. It could be a half day at the salon, or getting a massage.The mental health day can be whatever you want it to be, as long as it refreshes your mind.

Why You Need a Mental Health Day

You need a mental healthy day if you are otherwise a hard worker, slackers need not apply...

What IS That????

2009-06-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

You see it. The cutesy invitation seal...WHAT IS THAT and WHERE can I get them?!?!?!?

Photo courtesy of Cards and Pockets

My invitations NEED that...or at least something equally clever. Anyone know?

Just Realized...

2009-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

...I never shared our cake.

Isn't she a beauty?

By the way, I'm still on the hunt for a similar plateau...

A Little Reading Material

2009-06-03T10:39:00.000-07:00

So, we decided to add a special touch to our OOT bags. We'll be including personalized brochures that include the following:

A Welcome Greeting

Our Recommendations for Dining

An Invitation to the "Day After" Brunch

Emergency Contact Information

Directions to the Church and Reception

A Special Thanks to Our Parents

A Special Note to My Mom

Am I missing anything?

A Little House-Keeping :)

2009-06-02T05:53:00.000-07:00

Done:

GROOM!!!
Ceremony Site
Officiants
Marriage License requirements researched and in the process of being fulfilled
Pre-Marital Counseling (Session 5 of 12 approaching)
Mr. CB's Rings (he's a 2 ring groom)
Dress
Jewelry
Shoes
Clutch
FABULOUS Fascinator
Veil
Aisle Runner (YAY for Craigslist!)
Here Comes the Bride Banner (50%)
Reception Card Box
Hair Styist
Cake
Cake topper made by moi
Vases for sand ceremony
Bathroom Baskets and some contents
Frames for various places, ie bar, bathroom baskets, gourmet popcorn (??) buffet
"LAST NAME" monogram ceramic dishes for popcorn buffet
cello bags and ties for buffet
banner (in lieu of gobo) to hang over staircase (where we make our entrance)
ceremony decor (50%)
reception decor (50%)
started buying cases of likka for the bar
our broom
"Dancing Shoes" for Our Guests
BM gifts
Groom and other men's attire
New Photographer!!!
Caterer (and menu)
Videographer
Ceremony musicians
STDs are OUT!
DOC
E-pics
TTD pics
Siggy Drink - Because we are just Tickled Pink to be One...
Lighting for Banquet Room
Photosharing Cards to be included in our Thank Yous
cake server set
toasting flutes
matches for sparkler send-off
Crinoline
Aisle Runner
Diamond Confetti
Dessert and Bar Napkins
INVITATIONS
Hotel Block
Photobook (guestbook)
Transportation
DJ
Honeymoon
Aisle Vases
Order Pictures for Card Box
Manzanita Arrangements for Altar
Cake Plateau
Garter
Brochure for OOT Bags

To Do:

Get Barware
Day of Wedding Makeup
Decide/finalize/purchase remaining centerpiece supplies
Programs
Bridal Party Gifts
Family Gifts
Pastor Gifts
Bouquets
Boutonnieres
OOT Boxes (in progress)
Rehearsal Dinner
Undergarments
Chair Linen
Ceremony Programs
Banner Boy Signs
Table Numbers (in progress)
Seating Chart
Menus?
Bridal Party Jewelry

This Coulda Been Me...

2009-05-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

On my way in to work this morning, I was reminded of God's goodness and protection. You see, this image could have very well been me.

There was a car in front of me that decided to come to a complete and total stop on I-495, otherwise known as the Capital Beltway. Even though I will never know why she decided to slam on brakes to decrease her 65+ speed, it really doesn't even matter. What does matter is that He made a way. He stopped my car as well as the car behind me from slamming into one another. He cleared paths so that we could maneuver around and avoid a potentially fatal accident...

Do you know what I was doing at that time?? On the phone (hands-free, of course) with Mr. CB. At that moment, I realized how BOTH of our lives could have changed in the blink of an eye.

So, I encourage you to take a moment today (and everyday), to reflect on the goodness of God (or your higher power). Think of all of the incidents you've walked away from without a scratch...and say thank you...

How We Met: Friends Really Do Make GREAT Lovers

2009-05-19T11:44:00.001-07:00

Mr. CB and I met randomly in Athens, GA in 2002 . We were both out and about downtown hanging with our friends. Just so happened that one of his friends is just a bit of a show-off and my bestfriend (prior to hubby) is the same. We attended rival colleges for undergrad, and are apart of a brother/sister fraternity/sorority. So this night that the loud mouths run into one another, I noticed him instantly, but was rather shy. He also says the same of me. His friend, on the other hand, was not shy at all and asked for my number. Even though I wasn't interested, I gave it to him anyway. This friend would call and ask me out, but I would never go. Of course Mr. CB, being a good friend of this guy, had to hear about it. Finally, Mr. CB gathered enough nerve to ask me out. Of course, I said yes. Because we were both rather timid people, we ended up being friends.

Fast forward five years. After a rather nice friendship - we could talk to one another about ANYTHING (inclusive of others that we dated) - we went shopping for his birthday. He was throwing a lavish bash at a popular Atlanta night club and wanted to look like the "birthday boy." He invited me along, and I was happy to go. At this point, I had completed my research, defended my dissertation and graduated; so, many of the distractions that I previously had were gone. Little did I know that a shopping trip would change my life. Because this wasn't a "date" , things just kinda flowed naturally. I went along sans my usual makeup and pumps (can you guess which sorority I belong to?), and he dressed down as well. I have NEVER had so much fun on a non-date in my life. We left around noon and didn't return until after midnite. The turning point in our relationship happened on the ride home. He touched my knee. It wasn't anything mannish, but at this point I knew. I knew that the man of my dreams had been under my nose all along. When he touched my knee then (and even now), I got butterflies in my stomach. The rest, my dears, is history...

Photo Sharing Cards

2009-05-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

Here are the photo sharing cards (courtesy of Vistaprint) that we will include in our guests "Thank You" cards. I believe that some of the best shots are candid, and I would absolutely HATE to miss out on those! Soooooo, we're asking all of our guests to upload their pics to an online picture hosting site...

Dancing Shoes, Anyone?

2009-05-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

Because I have been that woman with the killer heels still trying to par-tay, we've decided to provide "dancing shoes" for our guests.

Don't worry, the presentation will be MUCH better, I'm just having a lazy day. I have a black wicker basket to display these beauties. Flip flops courtesy of the Dollar Tree.

The verbage to go along will read something like this:

Average Elegant wedding for family & friends:
$32,000
Wedding Photographs Commemorating the Occasion:
$3,000
Deluxe Two-Week honeymoon accomodations in the Grand Cayman Islands:
$8,500
The Newlyweds providing you with dancing shoes to “bust a move”:
PRICELESS

Weekend Recap: What Did YOU Do?

2009-05-18T07:27:00.000-07:00

So, today is Mr. CB's birthday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BABE! To celebrate, I whisked him off for a weekend of his favorite things in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Namely me and me...what were you expecting? :)

Prior to our departure, he had no idea what I had planned for him. I had left clues, but he hadn't pin pointed one particular destination.

We arrived at the Courtyard by Marriot in Norfolk late on Friday night. I had planned for a visit to a lounge for drinks. Once we checked in, we both had SLEEP on the brain.

We awoke refreshed on Saturday morning and got dressed for breakfast. After we finished, around 10:30 AM, guess what we did? ANOTHER nap! Yep. Not ashamed at all. About an hour and a half later, we took a ride out to the ocean front and just strolled up the beach. After soon growing tired of that, we took a trip to Lynnhaven Mall. Here I found the cutest bracelet for our big day, and that was the ONLY purchase either of us made. Then it was time for what you ask?? Another nap.

We headed back to our hotel and took an afternoon siesta. This must have been a much-needed weekend getaway so much so that we slept through the alarm.

Mr. CB is quite the entertainment, music and comedy buff. I often joke that he is an encyclopedia of totally random knowledge. Did anyone know that Michael Jackson is of the Jehovah's Witness religious persuasion? I digress...

Mr. CB had never been to a live comedy show, but he had always taped the Def Comedy Jams, Showtime at the Apollos, etc. to be able to watch and watch again. I decided, what better than a relaxing weekend of no computers, no wedding planning, no deadlines AND his first visit to a comedy show? It just so happened to work out that we were able to see a somewhat major comedian...Eddie Griffin.
And guess what?!?!?!? We arrived at the comedy club just early enough to get the last two seats that were front row center!!!! Wasn't sure if this was a blessing or a curse since Eddie is known to base his act on the audience. Luckily, there was a much more "interesting" gentleman sitting directly behind us - or maybe he could see the fear in my eyes? He poked fun at EVERYONE on the front row - except Mr CB and me!!! YAY!!!!

After the show, we headed back out to the ocean to walk along it and enjoy the sounds of the waves...and headed back to our room for you guessed it - sleep...

Pretty please don't forget to leave a comment and share what you did with your weekend!

We're Doing It!!!

2009-05-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

...jumping the broom, that is. What on earth did you think I was talking about?

A little history:

Broom jumping is most famous in the United States as an African American wedding custom. During the antebellum period in the United States, slave marriages were not recognized as legal or binding. The broom jumping ritual was a symbolic act within slave communities for marriage. Many African American couples are taking back this custom and incorporating it as part of their modern ceremony. Broom jumping was not done only by slaves however, poor Caucasians in the South and in New England, as well as Gypsies also used this marriage ritual. The jumping of the broom is of Welsh and Celtic origin. In the Celtic ritual, it is a symbol of fertility. Several couples interested in history or pagan ritual also are now adopting this custom in their weddings.

In modern times:
Done as an act of remembrance and to honor the ancestors of the past. Compared to the Jewish wedding ritual of crushing a glass for the destruction of the temple. A broom itself represents cleanliness, the hearth and family. It can also represent fertility. The jumping of the broom is a leap of faith into marriage. In some parts of Africa, ceremonial brooms are used to sweep away evil.

(Taken from Do It Yourself Weddings)

So, without further ado, our broom:

Favor Buffet - To Do or Not to Do?

2009-05-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks to another creative bride, I'm considering a favor buffet. I'm sure somewhere in my posts below, I've mentioned that Mr. CB and I plan to make a donation to the Leukemia and Lymhoma Society in honor of my Mom - if not, now you know. Don't get me wrong, we'll still do this, but I would also LOVE to have a set of these beauties spelling out our last name.

How cool would that be to have those to entertain in the future??!?!?

Huh? What is that? What will we fill it with???

None other than GOURMET POPCORN!!!!

Whatcha think about that?

PSA: Sale at E.L.F. (Eyes Lips Face Cosmetics)

2009-05-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

This is the best time to get bargains.

Nordstrom is changing the logo on their makeup, so they're selling everything for one dollar on line.

The make-up line E.L.F. (eyes-lips-face) has been bought out by Nordstrom and will be re-packaged with the Nordstrom name on it. They are getting rid of the entire make up in the ELF packaging. They are selling everything for $1. You do have to pay shipping. They have everything powder, mascara, lipstick, a mineral line, brushes etc. The website is http://www.eyeslipsface.com/shop.asp

When you check out there is a space for a coupon code. Use CAROLINA and save an additional $7.50 if your order is over $15.00. Free Shipping code ECTAPBY. 50% of Studio code EGSTUDIOX. You can only use one code.

Pre-Marital Counseling - Are You Game?

2009-05-05T09:37:00.001-07:00

Disclaimer: The picture is not indicative of our experience.

We began our counseling this past weekend. We are a part of a group session with approximately 10 or 11 couples. It lasted for 2.5 hours, and is scheduled for 12 weeks.

Can I just say that we couldn't be more excited?!!?! Like all other normal couples, we have our disagreements. Nothing major, though. This church-based counseling is seeming to be the BOMB.com. We both really felt like we had confirmation of our relationship just in the answers to the questions that we were asked. We think very much alike, and share the same values.

I guess, what I wanted to say, if given the opportunity - I HIGHLY recommend it!

STDs - No. Not the Icky Diseases, Either :)

2009-05-01T12:22:00.001-07:00

I just realized that I never posted these. They are all out (almost), and were a breeze to make.

Thank God for postcards (and Vistaprint)!

So, for the first time...

2009-04-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

...in this planning process - I feel like a bride-to-be. Before now, I guess I was just kinda going through the motions. So many things had overwhelmed me that I wasn't even enjoying the planning process. Thanks to the encouragement of many BABs (Brown and Bridal), I have really embraced the philosophy of K.I.M. Keep. It. Moving.

Most recently, we went to Macon, Georgia to tie some loose ends for the wedding, take e-pics and Trash the Dress pics. We were able to settle on our baker, coordinator, set-up of the reception hall, decor for the church, linen rental, make-up trials (I know I have alot of pics to share), transportation, and two photo shoots - all in 4 days.I'm so happy that everything is coming together, and I'm learning not to let little things worry me.

It appears as if we will have several phantom guests - people that we aren't inviting, but plan to come anyway. I've decided that if they show, they show. The coordinator and ushers will have a list at the door of RSVP'ed guests. Those that are not on the list will not be seated or served until we have accomodated those that are.

We were also able to sit down with our officiant this time. Turns out he thought he had communicated that he wouldn't be officially licensed by our date. We were able to talk with an Uncle (licensed officiant) and he has agreed that he will assist with the ceremony and sign the marriage license to ensure that all is legal.We were able to fulfill the marriage license requirements while we were there, and the clerk was willing to allow us to apply early. I thought that was peachy!

We also paid a visit to the Visitor's Center to pick up brochures for our OOT bags. Speaking of OOT, we visited and decided on the hotel where we would block off rooms for our guests. We opted for nice accomodations - without the high end price tag.

Because we were trying to keep all events near the hotel and church, we also visited a new brunch spot in the vicinity. We plan to invite our guests to join us for a dutch treat meal of our first breakfast as husband and wife.

The pics. We took our e-pics (which our photographer has not cared to upload yet - he's all about TTD) Sunday morning around historical downtown Macon. We shot from approximately 8:30 AM to about noon. We broke to grab a quick bite, taste cakes, and outline the ceremony. At 3 PM, we reconvened for the TTD session. This lasted until around 8 PM. I know that it's extremely unconventional to take the pictures before the wedding. We were, however, presented with an offer that (we thought) we couldn't refuse. Our photographer and DJ work together. The e-pics were included because we also booked DJ services. The TTD was included because he wanted to expand his portfolio. We also have our photographer ( and assistant) from getting dressed until the party is over.

Now, I didn't use my wedding dress (or any facsimile of it) for the pics. The dress you see pictured is actually a prom dress from Ebay (eBay Store - jh-promdress:) for approximately $30. I was extremely pleased with the quality of the garment. Because the seller made a small booboo, they upgraded my shipping to UPS to ensure that I would have it in time. The veil used was actually a free gift for another purchase that I made, so I had no issues with using that. I'm planning to wear a birdcage with a fabulous fascinator on our big day. My shoes were a Wal-Mart special - water shoes. You didn't think I would actually walk barefoot in a creek, did you?

Now, for your viewing pleasure, here's a teaser...

Enter to Win a Sleep Number Bed Worth $1300!!

2009-04-21T12:49:00.001-07:00

You've seen the commercials and walked by that store in the mall. Maybe you've even taken a test drive to discover your sleep number. This bed is beyond just a good night's sleep… once you've found your magic sleep number it provides a restful sleep that is downright blissful!

I have slept on this bed for nearly 5 years and to me anything else is like sleeping on the floor…or a rock… or a bed of nails…or… you get the idea. I LOVE my bed!

The other amazing thing I love about my bed is I can clean the inside of it! I can unzip the whole thing and vacuum the inside of my bed to make sure there aren't any pesky dust mites living in there. Yuck!

I am beyond thrilled to announce that Select Comfort is giving the bed pictured above, the new C3 Sleep Number Bed by Select Comfort to one of our readers here at Blissfully Domestic, including a foundation and UPS delivery

The bed fits everyone’s comfort level because each side can be adjusted to the exact level of comfort, support and firmness you want at the touch of a button. So if your spouse prefers a super hard rock and you favor a comfy cloud you can both be happy and get the rest you need on the same bed!

You can enter up to 4 times!

Here's how:

Complete the entry form and select "comment" to leave a comment on this post. Be sure to put a comment in the comment box!

Sign up for the Blissfully Domestic Weekly Best of Bliss Newsletter It's free and full of great ideas! Be sure complete the entry form and select "I Subscribed" in order for your entry to be counted. Current subscribers are eligible for this entry type but you must complete the entry form for the entry to be counted.

Write a blog post and link back to this contest on your blog, complete the entry form with the link to the post in the comment box.

Tweet our giveaway and complete the entry form with the link to the tweet in the comment box.
Completing the form on this page is your entry, so if you qualify for additional entries be sure to complete the form for each one. The form must be completed separately for each entry type in order for it to be counted in the drawing.

Some things to take note of:

Entries are open from Monday, April 20th thru Friday, May 1st at midnight central time. Our winner will be drawn randomly and we will announce the winner Saturday, May 2nd. Please make sure to check our site and your email address to see if you have won the prize. We must receive your reply within 5 business days.
Sleep Number is offering you the chance to win a Queen-size Sleep Number c3 bed set valued at $1,300.

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. The Sleep Number C3 Bed Giveaway is sponsored by Select Comfort Corporation. This contest is open to legal residents of the 50 United States & D.C., who reside in and are physically located in the U.S. and are 18 or older at time of entry.

PRIVACY: Information participants provide to Sponsor may be used to communicate with participants in relation to this sweepstakes as well as to contact participants regarding products and promotions of Sleep Number Beds. Sleep Number Privacy Policy.
Please see the Official Giveaway Rules for a complete list of the Contest and Giveaway Rules.

To Cover or Not to Cover?

2009-04-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

That is the question. I found this fabulous swim cover-up over at Newport News.

Isn't it CA-YUTE??? So the real question is whether or not I want to cover this beauty (also from Newport News)? I wonder could I also buy her physique?

FYI, if you decide to go over and do some shopping, use promo code "681" for twenty percent off and "L25" for free shipping.

Now all we need to is decide on and successfully book our honeymoon. Any suggestions?

Happy Friday, Everyone!

How Fascinating?

2009-04-12T10:25:00.001-07:00

So, I know I have been MIA...but between trying to work over-time, comp time, laundry, cook, help hang blinds, yada, yada. You get the picture.

I've recently received my fascinator courtesy of "Tress Dressed". Can I just say FAB. U. LOUS. Enough said.

Check out this deliciousness (just not my facial expression - what was I thinking?!?!?!):

RAVE: Dr. Ian's Four Day Diet!

2009-03-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

So what's different about this plan? It's only 4 days -- well, 4 days at a time.

Those 4-day modules are:

Induction (detox/cleansing)
Transition (to reintroduce all food groups)
Protein Stretch (to avoid plateaus)
Smooth (when you can have some formerly forbidden foods like pizza and French fries)
Push (the sprint just before the final stretch, back to a stricter eating plan)
Pace (a comfortable module for you to catch your breath)
Vigorous (the final module to lose those last few pounds)

So you work on specific tools to build a lasting weight loss. The diet is based on clean whole foods (no calorie counting) and getting your mind in the right place.

We started this diet this week. Induction has gone well. I don't feel as if I'm missing anything at all. I feel lighter and healthier. I'm sure all those laps at the track didn't hurt either :)

We currently do not own a scale (I often thought they were the devil), but I'm interested in getting one. I haven't felt this great in a long time!

And They're IN!!!!

2009-03-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

So, things are definitely starting to come together. This week, I've received my bustier, card box, and best of all (insert drum roll here) - my SHOES in the mail!

These are the highlight (except for marrying Mr. Concious Bride) of the day!

Christian Louboutin "Very Noeud"

I've also ordered quite a few craft items to begin our centerpiece mock - ups. So, you can finally expect me to stop neglecting my blog - ha, ha...

Short Centerpieces, Anyone?

2009-03-05T06:50:00.001-08:00

I found these over at www.diamondintheroughbridal.com...and fell in love! These are uber cute, chic and COST EFFECTIVE!

Can you guess what they are? I'll spill it - you never will. J-E-L-L-O!!!!! Even if this doesn't make the cut, it will definitely get a mock up :)

OOT Bags?

2009-03-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

So I absolutely LOVE these gift bags. Only problem is, I'm not sure if they are exactly "OOT bag" appropriate.

Then there's the option to use solid colored gable boxes or gift bags and affix one of these beauties...

Decisions, decisions...

So...Ummmm...Yeah.

2009-02-23T05:15:00.000-08:00

I would LOVE to post more here, but I CAN"T FIGURE OUT HOW TO POST PICS!!!!

It's so frustrating. I actually thought I was computer literate. If anyone has a spare moment to share the knowledge, it would be GREATLY appreciated!

Thanks!

Oh How I LOVE Him...

2009-02-17T10:15:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone here in cyber land had an awesome Valentine's Day! I couldn't have asked for more. Mr. Conscious started the weekend with some deelish chocolate covered strawberries (I heart Edible Arrangements). I promise you that I think they put something a little special in that chocolate - it ALWAYS knocks me out for the count.

I woke up refreshed on Saturday morning and went downstairs to cook the Mr. his favorite breakfast. No sooner than I turn from the stairwell that I notice balloons and a bouquet of my favorite flowers: TULIPS! How did he pull that off?

After breakfast, we went to enjoy manicures together. I had originally scheduled an in-home couples massage, but the masseuse cancelled at the last minute. Phooey on him! I was completely bummed because I really wanted to do something special for Mr. C, but he was happy nonetheless.

Following the manicures, we were on to my next surprise. My only instructions were to, "Dress warmly." After arriving in the city, him trying to find our destination, and tons and tons of walking (in heels), he finally makes a phone call to get the exact address of someone's "services." In my head, I'm like, ummmm, whats really going on...but I go along with it. We arrive at the Hyatt...you know...that one that we passed about two blocks ago :) I see a sign that says "Trolley Stop" as we approach and again I'm wondering....what's going on. He goes inside to speak with the Concierge and I'm left sitting in the lobby to wonder.

Just then, the most gorgeous horse and carriage pulls up outside and my face LIGHTS UP! I have always wanted to do this, and had NO IDEA that he had arranged it! He can tell from the look on my face what has happened, and he walks away from the Concierge. We journey outside and he helps me into the carriage. As we're sitting there (me proclaiming how excited I am), the driver brings me a rose and a gift bag. I look inside, and there's a bottle of champagne and two glasses. We take our ride around the city and indulge in the libations. It was THE best experience for me.

Following our carriage ride, he took me to dinner at our favorite Thai restaurant - and we called it a night...

Happy (belated) Black Love Day!

2009-02-15T08:27:00.000-08:00

So I recently found out that February 13th is Black Love Day. Of course, I have no proof - but I'll take any excuse to celebrate the love I have with Mr. Conscious. We enjoyed, so much so, that we've decided to select a random day at least four times and year to put EVERYTHING else aside.

I hope you enjoyed your day!

Welcome!

2009-02-12T06:39:00.000-08:00

I'm new to the world of blogging, but what better way to remain sane than to put my ideas in writing? I hope that you come in, make yourself comfortable and stay awhile!

While this is mainly to help me stay on track with wedding planning, I'm sure there will be other interesting posts here.

Enjoy!