99 Cent Store for Christmas Ornaments

Instead of spending a fortunate on Christmas ornaments that's used only briefly, visit your local 99 cent store. They have a generous selection of ornaments, Christmas decorations, and even Christmas lights. Some even have small Christmas trees.

Hiking!

Hiking is free, fun, and a great way to workout! You can go by yourself to collect your thoughts, turn it into a romantic retreat, or go with a bunch of friends to catch up. Take in nature, enjoy the scenery, and just get away from the city life or wherever you're normally exposed to. Sometimes a break is a good thing.

Cardio Alternative Indoors

If you're unable to go for a walk or run because it's running or late at night but you're able to move, consider jump roping. 10 minutes of jump roping is the equivalent of a half mile jog. Be warned that jump roping is a lot more strenuous and exhausting than running or at least that was my experience. But it's a great resource.

The Real Dangers of Minty Lips

So many lip balms claiming to moisturize your lips contain mint. It leaves a refreshing feeling that cools your lips. It also dries your lips out and/or impedes the moisturizing process. Mint is used on oily skin for a reason. Quite a bit of lip products for eczema contain mint because it soothes the irritation but it's also delaying the treatment. Mint in higher dosages are used as natural collagen boosters to make your lips appear fuller by irritating your lips until they swell.

Home Dyes Work Best When You Go From Light to Dark

Home hair dyes seem like such an affordable alternative to salon prices but only if you're going from light to dark. It's possible to find success when you go from dark to light but if you find your hair to be exceptionally dark and you're going for a contrastingly lighter shade, you may find that you're still wasting money because you're not lifting the color deposited on your hair so the lighter shade may not become visible. Something to think about.... Cheap doesn't always mean bargain.

Become a Hair Model

Getting your hair cut, colored, or styled is a costly investment. Call your local salons or beauty schools to see if they offer free services to hair models. If you live in the Los Angeles area, Fred Segal salon offers free services. In San Francisco, Vidal Sassoon offers similar programs during certain times of the year.

Farmer's Markets

I've been described as a farmer's market diva. So I don't have to explain that I love the farmer's market. I think everyone should go at least once. You get to sample the food. The produce is much fresher than what you'll ever find at the supermarket. There's even prepared meals if you're not into the idea of cooking. It's a great place to meet people, come up with great recipe ideas, and just get to know your community.

Beach Day!

Going to the beach is such an enjoyable experience and the best part is that it's free!!!! :D Go during the day by yourself with a book for a quiet day of reflection and much needed break from the world. Or gather or friends and family for a fun group day! You can even go at night and enjoy bonfires if you prefer.

How to Flavor Food Without Salt, Sugar, and Fat

Sweeten foods with spices such as allspice, anise, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.

Season foods without salt by adding herbs and spices that have zesty flavors such a s black pepper, hot pepper, garlic, coriander, onion, and curry.

Chocolate Raspberry Coconut Yogurt Delight

Plain yogurt is more affordable than flavored yogurt and offers more versatility. Transform boring plain yogurt into a delightful treat by filling a bowl with yogurt and topping it with raspberries, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut. It's best when the coconut is slightly toasted.

A Tropically Fruity Water

Make a commitment this summer to drink more water. Many of us forget because it's not a part of our daily habits. A good way to be conscientious about it and to encourage you to maintain this healthy habit is by flavoring the water naturally. Try adding fresh pineapple, ginger, and mint for a refreshingly delightful combination. In a clear pitcher, it's beautiful and enticing. You can refill the pitcher several times, too.