Kelly Dittmar, The Savvy Cat
I am a rabid deal hunter. For 20+ years I've pinched pennies, rebated my way to free stuff, and helped my family live debt free. In my professional life I've worked in communications, grant writing and teaching.
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Education/Experience
'82 BA, History Whitman College, '85 MA, History The University of WashingtonInterests
finances, saving, frugal living, deals, money, coupons, cheap, freebies, sales, no debt, no mortgage, no loans, free college, teaching,Motto
Cheat me once, shame on me; cheat me twice, and I'll scratch your eyes out. The Savvy CatAffiliations
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Displaying Results 1 - 104 (of 104) for All Content
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You Want My Money?The poor economy means we rethink every aspect of spending including charitable donations. Here are some things to consider before you write a check.
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Signs It's Time to Get a New JobLeaving any job is a tough call, especially in this economy. These clear signs your job is in jeopardy should alert you to act now to find a new job before you get the boot out the door. -
How to Fire an Employee the Right WayBe prepared before you fire an employee. Follow these sensible steps and keep your cool.
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FIVE KEY QUALITIES of EFFECTIVE MANAGERSGood business starts with good management. These 5 key leadership qualities enhance the workplace and the bottom line.
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Top Five Mistakes Bosses Make when Firing PeopleGot an annoying employee you want to dump? Avoid these five common mistakes that may make your life even more difficult when you fire someone at work.
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How Schools Pay Hourly WorkersIn spring school employees generally get work contracts for the following academic year. Hourly workers need to pay special attention to the details of how, when, and what they get paid for during the school year, breaks, and vacations.
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Shut Down Charlie SheenWe pay too much attention to insane celebrity idiots. A world record of Twitter twits following the Charlie Sheen train wreck convinces me too many people have too little to do other than be cheap voyeurs in the vapid life of a certifiable nut.
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Four Great Educational Sites for Kids, Parents & TeachersThese four kid friendly internet sites are fun and educational. -
Purple Cats YAHOO!Purple Cats YAHOO! -
SAMPLE YOUR WAY THROUGH TSADo you travel? Do you spend $1 or more for travel sized toiletries of 3 ounces or less that meet TSA flight regulations for carry on baggage? Stop wasting time and money. Look for free samples throughout the year and pack those instead. -
JOBS for COLLEGE GRADUATESThe economy sucks, Mom and Dad are broke, and they've changed the locks at home. A poem about modern day college graduates. -
How to Bathe a Cat and SurviveCats generally keep themselves clean and sweet smelling. There are times, however, even the most careful kitty needs help to remove nasty goop clinging to their furry body. Follow these sensible guidelines and you may just survive a cat bath ordeal. -
Kitty's Christmas WishA Cat's Haiku for Christmas.
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Ten New Year's Resolutions for the Average JoeNew Year's Resolutions are notoriously hard to keep. These 10 resolutions capture the spirit of the average person and may be some you can keep for a lifetime and not just one year!
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New Mammogram Guidelines Confuse WomenThe new mammogram recommendations from the Feds leave women confused and run contrary to American Cancer Society guidelines.
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Becoming AmericanWatching people choose to be citizens of the United States reinforces the privilege of being a member of this great nation.
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U-Tube TurkeyA memorable 2008 Thanksgiving turkey video immortalized as haiku.
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Single Guys! Here Are Four Savvy Survival Tips for the Upcoming Holiday Party SeasonSingle men there is no need to hide out this holiday season. With a little planning, and a practical attitude, you can survive any holiday party if you must. These four savvy tips will help you navigate any event.
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Five Questions to Answer Before You Commit to a ManToo many women end up unhappy with men who are not a good match simply because they are desperate for Mr. Romance. Wake up, most men will never fulfill that fantasy. Take time to check him out before you lose your heart.
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Buy a Permit to Cut a Christmas Tree in Washington's National ForestsWhere to obtain a permit to cut your own Christmas tree on national forest land in Washington state.
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Five Holiday Gifts Every Grandparent DreadsEvery grandparent envisions the perfect holiday where they are worshipped by loving grandchildren and receive great gifts. Of course, if your family is less than perfect these nasty gifts will give them a taste of your true feelings.
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Five Great Gifts for Teachers and Instructors for $5 or LessThank your favorite teachers and instructors for their hard work. These five great gift ideas are inexpensive and heartfelt.
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Great Free Veterans Day Activities, Resources and Lesson Plans for K-12 TeachersTeachers, these great sites offer a wide variety of free Veterans Day activities, resources,clip art and lesson plans for grades K-12.
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Five Savvy Tips to Save Money on Shipping Costs This Holiday SeasonIf you plan to send gifts or cards this holiday season take time to compare shipping options, with a little planning you can save big bucks!
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A Cat's Guide to Facts About the False CatsharkDr. C., an elderly feline author, delves into the depths of the ocean to learn more about the ominous sounding False Catshark. -
Vancouver, B. C., Tops My List of the Best Canadian CitiesOver the last 25 years my husband and I visited Vancouver, British Columbia, at least half a dozen times and I can't wait to go back again. This eclectic port city offers something for everyone.
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Must-See World Class Tourist Sites in Tacoma, WashingtonTacoma, Washington is often overlooked as folks rush up I-5 toward either Seattle or Portland. Take a few hours to hop off the interstate and check out these world class attractions. You won't be sorry!
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Who is to Blame for Cheating?Cheating seems to be rampant among kids today, but who is to blame?
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Six Crazy Gag Gifts that Santa Wishes He Could Give!Gag gifts can be a put-down or fun. These six gift ideas will give you pause for thought. Instead of Santa you might remind folks of a nasty elf!
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The Best Places to Find Great Cat Gifts This ChristmasDr. C. an elderly feline author shares his pick of top stores stocking the best holiday and Christmas gifts for discerning cats. You can't go wrong with pet gifts from these unique places. MEOW! -
Clever Secret Santa Gifts that Won't Break the BankThese fun Secret Santa gifts won't cost you an arm and a leg, but they pack a lot of holiday punch for your bucks.
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Ghouls, Ghosts & GoblinsA little poem about things that go bump in the night.
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Ten Savvy Christmas Travel Safety TipsMake sure your holiday memories are good ones. These ten savvy safety tips will help you prepare your home, avoid being a victim of crime, and help you take any travel delays or glitches in stride.
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Ten Tips to Survive Christmas Away from HomeFacing the holidays away from home, especially for the first time can be tough. Your best bet is to smile, make plans to have fun, and make your own celebration.
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Fun, Easy Thanksgiving Lesson Plans for Kindergarten or First GradeThese fun Thanksgiving lesson plan ideas are easy to pull together at the last minute. The week will be hectic enough, keep it simple and be thankful for the long weekend.
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Ten Savvy Survival Tips for Thanksgiving TravelThese ten savvy travel tips will help you survive Thanksgiving trips. Pack extra snacks, extra undies and extra patience and you may just enjoy yourself.
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Five Great Sites for Free Thanksgiving E-cardsIf you have family and friends you will be missing this holiday season, let them know you are thinking of them with a free Thanksgiving e-card. These 5 sites offer truly free cards with no trials or sign-ups required.
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Homeopathic Remedies, Supplements and Natural CuresNatural supplements and homeopathic remedies can be a useful tool for some illnesses. Millions of us take these readily available drugs because they are available over-the-counter and we think they can help, but is there any risk?
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Stuck in the Sea-Tac Airport? Entertain Yourself There or Take a Bus to Downtown SeattleIf you have a layover of several hours at Sea-Tac airport, near Seattle, Washington, you can find lots of things to do in between your flights and you might even get a chance to slip downtown for a mini-tour.
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Multiple Options for Film and Picture Processing in Tacoma, WashingtonNo matter what you need in terms of film or photo finishing you will find a number of local Tacoma, Washington area retailers who can help you with any project large or small.
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Ten Great Resources for Free Columbus Day Printables for TeachersThere are loads of free resources online for teachers to print worksheets, coloring pages and puzzles on Columbus Day themes. Here are ten great places to look for freebies.
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Five Great Treats that Won't Rot Trick or Treater's Teeth This Halloween!Consider handing out stickers, temporary tatoos, mini-tops or other non-food items for Halloween. Kids won't be disappointed and their parents will thank you. -
Ten Safety Tips for Winter Driving Across Washington StateWinter travel in Washington State can be a challenge. Follow these ten sensible tips to prepare for cross-state travel when snow and ice make driving hazardous.
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No Regrets for My LifeI find myself being judged by other for saving mankind. I am not insane. I am a savior. Here is my story.
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Five Cheap Halloween Party Ideas for TeensIt takes more time than money to throw a fantastic teen Halloween monster bash. Focus on cheap entertainment,loads of food and end the evening with a classic Halloween B Movie mini-marathon!
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Five Green Halloween Party Tips for the Creative, Frugal Ghost or GhostessGoing green at Halloween is good for the earth and your kid's teeth too. Shop local and seasonal foods, and look for ways to reduce waste, decorate with reusable items and recycle the remnants. -
Tuxedo Rentals for Homecoming, Prom or Formal Dances Near the Mall in Tacoma, WashingtonFinding reasonably priced tuxedo rentals in Tacoma, Washington is easy if you stick to package deals and classic styles. Three stores, two on S. 38th St., and one in the mall offer student specials and more.
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Top 5 San Francisco, California, Bay Area Halloween Ghost Hunts, Tours and AttractionsSan Francisco is a one-stop ghost shop. Spend Halloween exploring the many haunts and sites of the city and you won't be disappointed.
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Halloween Paranormal Vocabulary Quiz: Are You a Believer or Oblivious?Halloween is that time of year to focus on spooky topics such as ghosts, spirits, and demons. Take this simple quiz to see if your head is in the clouds or your feet are sunk in the concrete of reality.
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Pet Cemeteries, Memorial and Cremation Services in Tacoma, WashingtonThe death of a beloved pet can be traumatic. If you want to do something special you may consider burial in a pet cemetery, cremation or some other memorial service. Here's what's available for pets in Tacoma, Washington.
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Did Your Mouse Quit or Your File Disappear? Dr. C. Will Tell You How to Recover from Computer DisasterHas your mouse died? Do you have files that disappear? Follow Dr. C's advice and save your computer and data from disaster.
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Computer I.Q. Quiz - Are You a Techie or Trouble?The most common computer problem on the planet is user error. Take this simple quiz and find out if you rank among the computer savvy elite, or the IT world's most dreaded customers, the technologically challenged.
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Keep Your Kids Healthy Follow These Common Sense Tips to Avoid the Swine Flu at SchoolTake a common sense approach to this coming flu season. Teach your kids ways to avoid gettings sick, talk to your school about their emergency plans, and plan with your employer to work form home if needed.
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Five Men's Shoes Priced Under $50 - Great for Both Work and SchoolIt can be hard to find affordable shoes for men. Locating decent shoes for $50 or less can be next to impossible. The best source for inexpensive shoes is online, but you might have to dig to find the deals.
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Funny Halloween Memories of Childhood Costumes and PranksHalloween has always been a special time in my life. I really love the scary ghost stories and the fun costumes. The spooks, ghouls, and surprises make the day!
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Three Fun, Easy and Creepy Halloween Party RecipesThese three fun and easy Halloween buffet items will creep out your guests and make you the top party animal on your block!
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The New Goodwill Store on 6th Avenue in Tacoma, Washington is a Great Place to Shop!Check out the new Goodwill Store that just opened in the old Long's Drug store on Sixth Avenue. This store is a gem.
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Halloween Unlucky? Disaster, Death, Murder and War Mark October 31st in HistoryHalloween started out as a celebration of saints in 834, but is the day October 31 sinister? Here is a quick look at 25 horrific happenings associated with that date in history.
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Spooks, Ghosts, and Haunts in Historic Tacoma, WashingtonTacoma, Washington is one of the oldest cities on the West Coast. The long, frontier history lends itself to a host of ghosts and haunts.
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Five True, but Weird College Sports MascotsCollege mascots can be anything from tigers to alien-like blobs, but it's hard to imagine a Fighting Artichoke leading the team to a last down victory. Here are five of the weirdest mascots around.
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An Ode to Dusty in Honor of National Dog Day, August 26, 2009A poem in honor of Dusty Dog to celebrate National Dog Day, August 26, 2009.
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A Cat's Tribute to His Favorite Canine Friends in Honor of National Dog DayDr. C., an elderly feline author, shares his memories of his favorite canine friends and neighbors in honor of National Dog Day, August 26th.
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Five Good Reasons to Leave Your Dog at Home, or in Daycare, While You WorkDogs are wonderful animals, but the workplace is not always the best place for dogs to hang out during your work day.
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A Man & His Woman a Story of Love and Betrayal in the HamptonsA man, a beautiful woman a story of love and betrayal.
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Celebrate Labor Day the Old Fashioned Way with a Picnic, Games and Free Outdoor FunThis year take time to learn a little about the history of Labor Day. Then plan on spending the day with an old fashioned picnic, games, and celebrate the virtues of teamwork.
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Proposed Postal Closures in Tacoma, Washington Target Vulnerable NeighborhoodsThe proposed closure of nearly 700 USPS retail branches was just announced. Tacoma, Washington got hit with two out of six closures slated for the State. The result will hurt two disadvantaged neighborhoods.
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Kids.Gov: a Safe, Educational Resource for Elementary and Middle School Kids, Parents and TeachersThe U.S. government offers a rich educational portal for children, parents and teachers. The site, www.kids.gov, offers K-8 students a great place to do research, practice skills, and explore.
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Five Basic Boating Safety Tips for Enjoying Labor Day Weekend Outings on the WaterThis article describes five simple steps to enjoy a safe outing on the waterways over the upcoming Labor Day holiday.
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How to Build Healthy Brown Bag Lunches for Your KidsIt's easy to create healthy brown bag lunches your child will eat. Take a bit of time to plan easy meals and include your child in deciding what foods and snacks to try.
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Potluck Wedding Receptions May Be the New Trend in Budget Weddings for the Thrifty DIY Bride and GroomWedding receptions can be pricey, but some couples are asking friends and relatives to help out by contributing a favorite dish to share at a potluck wedding celebration. Will this catch on?
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Cholesterol Testing and Screening Services Are Easy to Find in Tacoma, WashingtonCholesterol screening tests are easy to find, inexpensive, and just might save your life. If you know your cholesterol numbers you can take steps to lower your risk and improve your health.
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Fun and Cheap Water Games Entertain the Whole Family on Hot Summer DaysExtremely hot summer days call for one thing: good old-fashioned water play. Join in the games with your kids and the whole family with have a good time and get cool to boot.
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Blood Plasma Collection Centers in Tacoma, WashingtonPlasma is a life saving blood product you can donate to help others. In Tacoma, Washington you can donate at the non-profit Cascade Regional Blood Center or at the company Biomat USA.
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Demand a Better Home Appliance Join the Campaign for a Self-cleaning Microwave Now!I love my microwave oven, but I hate cleaning up messy splatters. Why can't someone invent a self-cleaning microwave. The result would be revolutionary.
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Ten Fun Free Activities and Attractions in Tacoma, WashingtonTen free activities for the whole family in historic Tacoma, Washington. You don't have to spend money for a good time in T-town.
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Ten Real Life Wedding Day Survival Tips for Brides and GroomsWeddings are like life, if something can go wrong it will. Accept that no wedding is perfect, prepare for the unexpected, and try to enjoy the experience.
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Cats, Hairballs, and Life All Go Together It's a Cat's Lot in LifeCats and hairballs go together. A vet once told me if a cat isn't puking it isn't healthy. Dr. Catman writes a poem about the problem of those nasty wads of hair.
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Dog Day Afternoons - a Dog's Confession About What Really Goes on While You WorkJust what do dog's do while they are alone? Here is a poem from the dog's perspective.
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The Flea Ferry Blues: A Cat PoemDr. Catman, an elderly feline writes a poem about fleas. Translated by Kelly Dittmar, The Savvy Cat.
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A Guide to the Best Bargain Thrift Stores in Tacoma, WashingtonThrift store shopping is hotter than hot. Here is a guide to some of the best thrift stores located in Tacoma, Washington.
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Laundry 101: Tips for College Students and Young Adults on Their Own for the First TimeMany young adults never learn how to launder their clothes before they leave for college or end up on their own. These tips will help you wash your clothes without disaster and keep you from going pink.
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5 Useful Gadgets that Help Seniors Stay Safe at HomeOver the years my family has helped several elderly relatives live independently in their own home. Each situation is different, but these five products helped our family members stay in their homes longer.
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Cutting Postal Services Can Save Money, but . .The government may need to cut costs, but cutting services indiscriminately can hurt the poor, the disabled, the elderly, and the rural.
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Five Unique and Memorable Sweet Sixteen Gifts for Any BudgetSweet Sixteen gifts commemorate a cultural rite of passage. These five unique gift choices will help you create a special memory with almost any budget.
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T. Rowe Price and Disney Take an Innovative Approach to Teaching Kids About MoneyWho would have thought Disney would join forces with T. Rowe Price to promote an innovative approach to teaching kids about money?
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Three Simple Rules to Be Green, Save Money, and Stay HealthyReuse, reduce and recyle is a great mantra for reminding us to think about our impact on the environment. It is equally important to make sure we do these things safely without endangering the planet or our health.
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Motor Vehicle Emissions Testing in Washington State Improves Air QualityThe Washington State motor vehicle emissions program tests all vehicles between the ages of 5 and 25 years old. This program helps keep polluting vehicles off the road and is key to improving the air we breathe.
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The Quick, Simple and Easy Way to Grill Button, Crimini and Portabella MushroomsGrilling mushrooms is easy. With little more than a bit of time, some olive oil and a few skewers you can grill these smokey tasting fungal treats anytime.
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Ten Savvy Tips to Remodel, Renovate or Rejuvenate Your Kitchen on a Tight BudgetIt is possible to remodel or renovate a kitchen on a budget. Some options take more time than money, but if you are flexible and willing to do some work yourself you can cut costs without sacrificing style.
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Remodeling or Renovating Small Kitchens Takes Creativity, Flexibility, and Compact AppliancesFollow these simple steps to remodel a small kitchen into a stylish gourmet space that meets your needs and stores your stuff.
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Swimming Lessons for Kids and Young Teens in Tacoma, WashingtonSummer and swimming go hand in hand. When school's out and you are looking for ways to entertain the kids one of the greatest gifts you can give them are swimming lessons. You may just save their life.
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Holy Chianti! Four Great Italian Restaurants Tempt Diners in Tacoma, WashingtonYou might not think Tacoma is a culinary mecca, but four great Italian restaurants grace the Proctor District and Sixth Avenue.
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Swimming Lessons Just for Adults in Tacoma, WashingtonOpportunities for boating and water sports abound in the Pacific Northwest. If you want to participate safely you need to learn to swim. Adults can easily find private and group lessons in the Tacoma.
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Baby Swim Classes for Parents and Children in Tacoma, WashingtonSwimming classes are increasingly popular for babies, even as young as 6 months. Several resources are available to parents in Tacoma, Washington.
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Book Flights the Savvy Way: You Might Just End Up Being Pampered in First ClassFinding the best deal for an airline flight may mean finding the lowest fare. I like to find a good price, but I also like to travel on the most convenient flights and possibly score a seat in First Class.
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Do You Have to Clip Coupons to Save at the Grocery Store?Many think saving money on groceries entails clipping coupons and running around. Paying attention to your store's weekly ad and planning meals based on what's on sale, however, can save you a significant amount every week.
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Quench Your Thirst on a Hot Day with Light Beer Under 100 CaloriesIf you like beer, but want to watch calories check the lighter versions of your favorite brands.
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Ten Tips to Stay Married ForeverEvery marriage is different, but every couple can benefit from considering these ten tips based on respect, love, and forgiveness.
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Cool Refreshing Summer Soup Great for a Diabetic DietElegant and refreshing, this quick chilled soup is great on a hot day.
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What You Need to Know About Car Insurance Settlements Before an AccidentAt some point most of us will be in a car accident. Hopefully, no one gets hurt, but before accepting a settlement offer know your rights, document your losses, and advocate for yourself.
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Spend Money Two, Three, Four Times or MoreSpending money more than once sounds nuts. It's not criminal, its a savvy, smart way to try promotional products free by using rebates, sales, and coupons.
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Kitty's SummerKitties love the warm sum, pretty flowers, and sweet smells of summer too.
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Five Simple Steps to Avoid Bank FeesDeposit holds and overdraft policies vary by institution, and some cases by state. Every bank or credit union has their own rules for granting you access to your money. Don't assume you have cash in your account just because the ATM spat out cash.
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Four Painless Ways to Cut $1000 in Spending This YearCutting $1000 in spending seems tough, but if you trim just $5 week in four key areas your savings will add up to a grand over the course of a year.