Review and Giveaway of The Money Saving Mom's Budget

My top blog recommendation for learning how to get out of debt and to save money is the Money Saving Mom blog . I have read Crystal's blog for years, now, and I am still learning so much! I was so elated to hear that she has written a book called The Money Saving Mom's Budget. Her publisher graciously gave out dozens of review copies, and I was thrilled to be one of the initial reviewers.

In the beginning of Crystal and Jesse's marriage, they had a very modest income. Their grocery/household needs budget was about $35-$40 per week. Instead of feeling bogged down by that small of a budget, Crystal took it on as a challenge. She learned how to thrive off of a very small income, and she shares many of the tips/strategies that she used during that time.

My two favorite sections of the book were: "Give Yourself and Instant Raise Without Increasing Your Take-Home Pay" and "25 Ways to Lower Your Grocery Bill Without Cutting Coupons". It often seems like people think that when money is tight, the only solution is to find more income. I loved Crystal's recommendations on lowering your expenses, in order to save more money/have a workable budget each month. Finding ways to save money can be just as validating as finding ways to earn it. I loved the chapter about lowering your grocery bill without coupons, because I am in a phase in life, which isn't very coupon friendly. (I have four children, ages eight and under.) Some of her ideas include: having a meatless meal each week, bake your own bread (with a bread machine), and ditching cereal for breakfast.

The last chapter of the book, which deals with embracing today, choosing contentment,and blooming where you are planted, is well worth the price of this book. Crystal has inspired me to be more of a giver, and not to focus on collecting things for this fleeting life. All of the proceeds from the sales of The Money Saving Mom's Budget are going to Compassion International.

Win a Copy:
Mandatory Entry:
Leave a comment letting me know that you would like to win a copy of this book.
 
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This giveaway ends January 12, 2011 at 12 pm EST.

Disclosure: The review copy and giveaway copy were given by the publisher, in exchange of an honest review.