Last weekend I had a special day out with my grandma. We went to lunch, went shopping, and I found some items on clearance for 85% off! Grandma found a few things too, but my shopping bag overflowed. I mean 85% off … how can you beat that?
Come to find out, this is a typical Gen X trait. I can’t pay full price for anything. Another Gen X hobby is shopping on-line. I have my favorite e-shops such as Red Envelope. I first found out about this place when my sweet agent sent me a gift in a lovely red box. I’ve followed suit, sending gifts to editors, family, and friends … shopping from their Sale Shop, of course. (Shhh . . . don’t give away my secret.)
Of course, the good deal doesn’t end there. My husband showed me a cool trick that I thought I’d pass on to you. He showed me how to search for coupons on-line.
The cool thing about on-line coupons you just have to search for them and plug them in at check out … how easy is that? With them I’ve gotten free shipping, 20% off my order, and more. For example, this link goes to Target. When you click on the coupon you want, it will log you into the Target website and automatically make sure you get this discount at check-out.
(Oh, the have bookshelves for 50% off for all those Tricia Goyer books you’ve been buying!)
Why am I sharing all this? Because as a Gen Xer, I like things that work and things that provide a savings . . . in this case saving me money. The above is a good example.
In life and writing I think things that work, too, saving me time . . . and here are a few examples:
1. When it comes to ANY kind of writing, the first thing I do is just start writing. Seriously, I open up a blank document and “clear out” my mind. Today, I did this for a new Gen X book I want to write. This morning I had nothing, and this afternoon I had enough of the idea down to email a basic outline to my agent. For me, the best way to deal with a blank page is to make it un-blank!
2. When it comes to kids, I’ve trained them to help around the house. Even before my oldest son could read, he used the washing machine with the help of a little angel stick on the dial to show him where to start. Not only does this help me, my kids have pride in their work … and they’ll make good spouses some day! (I’m taking applications.)
3. When it comes to being at peace in my world, I submit to the Prince of Peace. Every day I start my day by reading my Bible and praying. What a different it makes! As I turn my thoughts to God and submit to my will, my steps follow Him and not my own desires. What a difference that makes too.
So, what things work for you? What saves time, or money, or saves you from angst in your life? I’d love to hear!
Also, don’t forget to stop by the next stop on the blog tour:
OOOoh auntie tricia, teach my kids to clean and wash clothes! I tried giving them the ‘sock folding’ chore and that blew up in my face. I’m STILL finding mismatched socks in my drawer 2 weeks later. 🙁
But I am on red envelope as we speak (type/read….blog?)
🙂
Hmm..what saves me money, time and stress?
I don’t know. It’s gotta be God, God, God!
I love writing/blogging — not only to make money, but to have a sense of community and to express feelings that need to get outta me!
Happy Day,
Paula
What a great post! Can’t wait to try the coupon trick…
I’ve been working with my 6 yo on laundry. The great thing about that age is they still WANT so badly to help! That said, I could do better about including them in all the ways of the household! Sometimes it’s easier to just let them play!
Hey, I got your book in the mail yesterday!!! Got the first 3 chaps read in the bath last night, it’s so good! Can’t wait to learn about the Spanish Civil War in the best way possible: a good read! :O)
Lesley, try letting them play their favorite music while they fold laundry. Or stories on CD. That works for my kids. And, yeah, the supervising so your socks do match does take more work at first.
Tricia, I think I’ll fill out one of those spouse applications for our kids!
What works for me is to plan my day the night before. I’ve got to have my day scheduled before I wake up in the morning or I tend to wander aimlessly and get next to nothing done. But that’s just me!
Thanks for sharing your tips.
Great tips, my friends! I love it!
Also, Mary, I’m thrilled you like the book so far!