Buy This, Not That: Pillowcase Dresses

Pillowcase dresses are too cute for words. And so easy to make if you sew. But since you all know the sewing gene skipped a generation in my family, I look for a source to buy a well made dress at a reasonable price. (Or beg my mom to make one for my little one.) Either way, it pays to be a savvy shopper when stocking up on spring and summer frocks.

Here's a great example of buy this, not that. With the money you save, you could get a pair of Saltwater sandals or a sweater to match the dress. You're welcome. (And tell my red ladybug I sent you. I've ordered two dresses from her shop and can vouch for the great quality.)

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: What's on your Spring shopping list?

Cheap and Cheerful Challenge: Mini Money Makeover

Since February is the shortest month of the year, it is the logical choice for a mini money makeover challenge.

Choose one:

1. Do not charge anything on any credit card for the entire month.

2. Eat out/get take out only twice this month.

3. Limit your Starbucks/Peet's/Coffee Bean habit to once per week.

4. Buy no new clothing items this month.

Or, choose your own adventure and write #5 for this list.

Share your choice with the class, please. And stop back and report your progress.

Cheap and Cheerful Cooking: Pantry Pasta from The Pioneer Woman

This recipe brings pantry cooking to a whole new level! Check out her blog. And prepare your waistline. In a good way.

Ingredients
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
½ whole Red Onion, Diced
3 cloves Garlic, Minced
1 can (14.5 Ounce) Diced Tomatos With Juice
⅓ cups Assorted Olives, Pitted And Roughly Chopped
⅓ cups White Wine
2 whole Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Pounded To Even Thickness
Kosher Salt
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Butter
Grated Parmesan Cheese
½ pounds Linguine, Cooked Al Dente And Drained
1 teaspoon Olive Oil

Preparation Instructions
Heat medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add olive oil. When warm add diced red onion and stir. Cook slowly for five minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic, then stir and cook for one minute. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice. Add chopped olives. Stir and cook for a minute or two.
Splash in wine, then stir and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
While sauce is cooking, sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken breasts. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a separate skillet. Cook on both sides until golden brown and done. Set aside.
Toss cooked linguine in olive oil and arrange on a small platter. Spoon 3/4 of the sauce over the pasta. Place chicken on top, then spoon remaining sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle on grated Parmesan and serve immediately.

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Money Mantra: Good Enough is Good Enough

My mantra for 2011 -- Good enough is good enough -- also connects to being cheap and cheerful. No more running out for that extra little gift, no more "if one is good, two are better". Know your limits and stick to them. Good enough is good enough. Thoughtful gift giving is better than over-the-top scrambling at the last minute. Get something cheerful and don't worry about the price tag. The love behind the gift is what matters. After all, my daughter's favorite Christmas gift -- her $3.99 Fancy Nancy underpants. Go figure.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: What is your money mantra for 2011?

Favorite Things: Tina Steinberg Designs

On Christmas Eve, I was waiting in the car with my sleeping child before heading in to Mass. I was playing around on my iPhone and noticed that the amazing Tina Steinberg had just posted a $50 gift certificate giveaway for the first ten people to leave a comment on her Facebook page. I was stunned and rushed to make a comment since I adore her charms and necklaces. I was the second person to comment (yippee!) and I am eagerly awaiting two charms. A little Christmas gift for me and I chose a charm to give to my mom. You might find something amazing here too -- Happy Shopping!

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: Can you guess which charms I picked?

Happy New Year!

December and January are expensive months. After the flurry of spending, what are you planning for your financial well being in 2011?

I've got a few ideas on my mind.

1. Save for more long term fun! For example, set aside more money for summer camps, weekend trips, and surprise getaways.

2. Invest in our infrastructure. Make plans for those needed window coverings, think ahead to replacing furniture, and rearrange existing furniture and household items to make the house feel new and fresh.

3. Keep focused on quality. One great pair of jeans is almost always better than two just average pairs. Gather together some nice items that will last for a few years. Look for super sales on super stuff.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: Any advice to add to my three ideas? I'd love to hear your suggestions on how you plan to stay cheap and cheerful.