Brides Across America - Free Bridal Gowns for Military

David's Bridal Strapless Gown

Please feel free to spread the word!

A Las Vegas bridal salon says will give away free wedding gowns to military brides-to-be on Veterans Day.

Couture Bride owner Annette Cirillo-Bergen says up to 45 designer and sample gowns will be given away beginning at 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2009, on a first-come, first-served basis, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The shop is one of 15 in 13 states taking part in the Brides Across America giveaway.

Others are in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.

To qualify, brides or their fiances must be active-duty personnel who are or will be deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan.

Recipients will have to show military identification and copies of deployment papers.

Charles Didn't Get The Job

Community park in Las Vegas

We just wanted to say thank you for your prayers and positive thoughts but Charles didn't get the job.

We were really hoping that he would get this one. His Kmart hours will be reduced again or he'll be let go, after the holidays.

The unemployment rate in Las Vegas is 13.5%! Some think it's much higher.

The YMCA of Southern Nevada Offers FREE Memberships to The Unemployed

That's right! I attended a community fair today and confirmed the rumors are true! The unemployed can receive a six month YMCA membership for themselves and their family at any YMCA of Southern Nevada!

Bring in your Determination of Benefits letter and photo ID.

The BerryMorins will definitely be joining!

More Interesting Facts Regarding Grocery Shopping Tips

Here's some more interesting facts to our Grocery Shopping Tips post, last month!

Aidi is the most popular grocery store for saving money, amongst the blog post participants! We don't have one in Las Vegas but I'm definitely looking forward to them coming here soon.

Ground beef prices could be found as inexpensive as 99 cents a pound while some of you are paying $1.89 a pound.

Boneless chicken breast prices were $1.50 to $1.99. Mrs U suggested purchasing a whole chicken and cutting it up. For 99 cents a pound I'm willing to sharpen my knife and learn!

For those of us that belong to membership club stores, like Everything's Coming Up Daisies and Feeding Four, ...Sam's Club rules! It's the best place for me to buy the large box Equal sweetner and Jergen's lotion. Many of you noted that you use membership club stores for specific items.

Thank you again to everyone who responded!

10 Things That You Really Don't Need - Budget Cutting Tips at Survival Insight!

Red Rock Park in Las Vegas, Nevada

Let's review a few of Survival Insight's money saving tip suggestions.

1. Movies - they recommend Netflix. It's almost the cheapest movie date in town other than picking up a DVD at the public library. You can also instantly watch movies and TV programs so for as little as $8, a month, a family really does get a bang for their buck!

2. Eating Out - does this even have to be said "Make your meals at home!" They do suggest if you're looking to enjoy dinner away from home have a picnic.

3. Vacations - there's lots of deals out there. For many families that can't afford to get away I suggest looking into free concerts, exhibits and shows, in their local area.

4. Expensive Groceries - the article suggest menu planning, brown bagging your lunch, and even growing your own vegetables. I can't argue with that

5. New vehicles - buy used! I also want to suggest to those who aren't in financial shape to do that consider becoming a one car family. We've been doing the "one car shuffle" since 2005 and don't regret it. If you have access to public transit consider using it. Walking or taking a bike is not only good for your wallet but your health!

6. Brand Named Clothes - shop at thrift shops. Another suggest I have is participating in clothing swaps. We did one last month. It was fun, met new people and I even managed to get clothes for winter and summer for me!

7. Jewelry - purchased from eBay. Since I live in Las Vegas I have access to pawn shops and resellers. My husband purchased my ring from a reseller.

8. Cell phones - consider getting rid of it?! Or look for an inexpensive plan. I've been a Tracfone user for many years and even got my husband using one. But if you have teens I recommend Cricket. They get unlimited texting and minutes, for a little as $40 a month! Hurry now, they're having a $25 special!

9. Magazine Subscriptions - cancel your subscriptions and review them online. Buying one subscription is also recommended. My recommendation? Head to your local public library! Where you can even check out your favortie magazines!

10. Spas, Nail Salon - make group appointments for a discount, have spa nights at home. My recommendation is to check out your local beauty schools. Many have clinics and offer services for low prices.

Now, it's your turn! Look over the list and share, on your blog, how you're cutting expenses on these Top 10!

Calvary Chapel Spring Valley Food Bank - Las Vegas

On our visit, Charles and I were blessed with 24 pounds of food, 1 gallon of milk, 2 loaves of bread, a tri-tip roast, a dozen eggs and a bag of chicken nuggets! The Heavenly Father is so good!

Calvary Chapel Spring Valley Food Bank free monthly food assistance for families in zip codes: 89102, 89103, 89113, 89117, 89118, 89139, 89141, 89147, & 89146 or if you have a church referral letter written on CCSV letterhead.

Must provide proof of residency, valid picture ID for adults & birth certificates or social security cards for children under 18. First come first served, quantities limited. Calvary Chapel Spring Valley reserves the right to refuse service for those that do not meet eligibility requirements. Food assistance limited to once every 30 days.

Food Bank Days and Hours: Tuesdays 10am to 2pm Wednesdays 1pm to 6pm

Prayers for Hubby's Job Interview

Charles and I enjoying bowling earlier this year

Charles went on a job interview on Tuesday. He was really excited about it when he got home. The pay is very good, there's benefits, and it's fulltime.

He's up for the job with 4 other qualified people. The company said that they would phone him on Friday to let him know the outcome.

Please keep him in your prayers.

Marcus Received A's and B's! Way to Go Buddie!

Marcus, our teen's artwork

Charles and I received Marcus' first semester grades yesterday. He received A's and one B!

Let's give our "Little One" a big round of applause! What a fantastic way to start off your last year of high school! Your mom and dad are so proud of you.

The Unemployed Can Save 20% at Kmart!

I just want to thank my adorable hubby for this great saving tips for the unemployed!

He over heard a lady talking about all the money she was saving using Smart Assist, at Kmart, last night.

If you're unemployed you can save 20% off Kmart brand items for 6 months. Just head over to their website, sign up, and print the card.

You'll be required to show, at checkout, the discount card, your state-issued identification card for signature verification and state-issued unemployment benefits enrollment verification.

Small Town Blessings - Thriving on a Small Town Income

I know I'm not the only one who appreciates bloggers who share how they're living on small incomes. There's so many people currently underemployed and unemployed that are looking for ways to get their necessities.

My husband and I used to say that there just is no way a family of three can live on $2200 but we're learning to do it!

That's why I love Small Town Blessings. You'll see that this family isn't just living but thriving! She blogs with humor and love and shows we can also be up to the task!

Works For Me Wednesdays - Unemployed? Volunteer?

Volunteer Center of Southern Nevada

I posted this post in October 2009 and thought I would share it on WFMW! After all, volunteering definitely Works for Me!

I came across an article that covered the many benefits to local charities and businesses receive from volunteers, by allowing them to stay open and providing social and intellectual capital.

There are many benefits to the volunteers.

One can gain new job skills, you're able to network, build up confidence and even utilize your current job skills! Many potential employers look highly upon unemployed applicants that volunteer.

Looking for volunteering opportunites? Think about your interest and what type of skills you might want to utilize. Then start by inquiring with their local church, schools, food banks, hospitals and animal shelters.

Mark this date on your calendars! National Family Volunteer Day is November 28th!

Volunteer Match

Volunteer Center of Southern Nevada

Susan G Komen for the Cure Southern Nevada

1-800-Volunteer

Volunteer.gov ~ volunteer opportinites at National Parks and Cultural Centers

Angel Food Coupons!

Angel Food Ministries is Happy to inform everyone that the new November Coupons are ready!

The online coupons are "Turkey5" which gives 5% off the "Signature Box" of Angel Food.

The other coupon code is "NOVSP2" which gives 5% off the "Special Meat Box #2".

These coupons are limited to the first 2000 users and will expire at the end of NOVEMBER. !

Follow Angel Food Ministries on Facebook!

Are You Watching "The Good Wife"?

The Good Wife, on CBS

I can never stay awake long enough to actually watch "The Good Wife", starring Julianne Margulies, as Alicia Florek.

Thank goodness for online full videos! I'm now officially caught up!

My husband and I think Will and Alicia used to date. I love that they haven't unveiled their full background.

Are you a fan of the show?

Product Recommendation: Angel Food Ministries

We're impressed with the quality of the items in the boxes! Compared to Golden Share, the steaks were more tender and had less fat. We used them in a Beef Stew.

The Carne Asada meat was turned into a Stir Fry with the peppers and garlic, for lunch. And the husband and teen eat it up! No leftovers!

I love the recipes and the Servant Magazine, that Angel Food Ministries included.

It's a great way to lower your grocery budget!

An Inspirational Story of Surviving Poverty

Red Rock Park in Las Vegas

Recently I've been truly blessed with many of you sharing your personal experiences with surviving unemployment and financial loss. I love reading how strong your faith and love of family was during those difficult times.

Many of you expressed that once you were able to climb out of it you still kept many of the frugal lessons you learned. Through struggle we become more humble.

Those of you that are still dealing with it aren't allowing it to crush you.

You still enjoyed your life, put your children first, accepted or seeked help, when needed, and even extended a helping hand to others.

Here's one that I would like to share with you.

Thank you Arabian Knits for providing the link.

Spending a Nice Afternoon Listening to Dr. Laura Radio Show

When people ask me do I miss my job I usually shocked them by saying NO! The fact is I just wasn't able to really enjoy my life and do the things that I enjoy.

When I lived in San Diego I used to listen to Dr. Laura every weekday. It got to the point that Marcus would say "Mom! Dr. Laura is on!" He even would listen to the show sometimes and we would discuss the calls!

So, this sunny, warm afternoon I'm able to listen to my favorite radio show while enjoying some "people watching" outside of my living room window. Oops, here comes Marcus to remind me that her show is on!

Thank You Heavenly Father for The Best Son

Marcus, our "Little One"

Marcus shocked us by saying that he wanted to help us financially when he goes into the military. With tears in my eyes, I hugged and thanked him but told him no. It's not his responsibility to take care of us.

The Heavenly Father has truly blessed us with the best son. May he continue to protect him when he leaves our arms.

Menu Plan Monday - November 2, 2009

I'm still volunteering at Calvary Chapel, three days a week. I'm able to utilize my data entry and phone skills. Volunteer has been so helpful for me to be doing this. After being unemployed for 2 months, I actually look forward to my volunteer work.

Marcus and I had a terrific time at the Harvest Festival, at Calvary Chapel Spring Valley. We ate, played games and did alot of walking. Since I forgot my camera theres no photos. Oops! I found out that our "Little One" ate my candy! I guess I didn't need it.

Odyssey High School is having a Community Fair, this Friday, for their students and families. Many social services and health organizations will be there. They're even offering free raffle gifts!

After paying car insurance, rent and cellphone we're left with $17! Meals are from Angel Food Ministries and the local food bank. Thank you to Organizing Junkie for hosting Menu Plan Mondays.

Thank you Heavenly Father for our many blessings! Now onto this week's menu!

Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

Chicken Cacciatore, Whole Wheat Pasta

Oven Fried Chicken, Lima Beans, Sauteed Cabbage

Oven Fried Fish Sticks, Mixed Vegetables, Brown Rice

Hot Dogs on Whole Wheat Buns, Oven Fries, Baked Beans

Rachael Ray Offers Free Dinner to Jobless

Rachael Ray

Have you heard or read the news that Rachael Ray is throwing a Thanksgiving Dinner in Wilmington, Ohio, on November 8, for the unemployed?

Do you think celebrities should be doing something for the unemployed?

The Harvest Festival Was Great Fun

Sorry, I forgot my camera!

Did you know it took us losing our jobs for Marcus and I to finally go to the Harvest Festival? And it was so worth it!

Calvary Chapel Spring Valley had lots of volunteers so Marcus and I were able to enjoy the games and food! Have you ever had Garlic Fries ? Yummy!

The Cakewalk was lots of fun and you should have seen the goodies! (I know...I forgot my camera...so no photos)

I'm having pain flare-ups, this morning, from all the walking but it was so worth it to see all the smiling faces and hear all the laughter, including our "Little One" Marcus!

Don't Forget to Fall Back!

I actually forgot to set the clocks back.

Now I need to set all the clocks back!