Q: ok.. Iive tried to cut down the basics but can't get under 150 and not run out of milk or bread by the middle of the week.. need help on this one..

Q: what about diapers are they included in the groceries as well.. unfortunately no aldi here in the southern end of tn at least not where im at..

A: Do you have a Save A Lot? I used to get my diapers and wipes from them, but only if they didn't leak for that particular child. 2 of my kids could only wear Huggies and not leak. It really depends on the kid. And it's worth the extra money to buy the brand that works best for that kid or you're doing way too much laundry to justify the savings. I don't have any more children in diapers. And I haven't had to buy any cleaning supplies lately.

Stories of identity theft are scary to say the least. They are increasing in both quantity and spread. Anyone is susceptible. With the rise of technology comes convenience, but it also makes it convenient for criminals to do their deeds in some cases.

I'm writing a series at www.technichick.com on how to protect yourself online. I am very active in many online communities. If you enjoy meeting people or shopping or researching online, you need to take certain precautions just as you would in the real world. 

In the real world, there are places with bad reputations, and you simply don't go there after dark. Take this common sense into cyberspace. There are 'dark' places online, and they are obvious. If it doesn't "feel" right, pay attention. If there are links to porn sites or torrents or "you've just won ...", be on your guard. Some sites gather more info than you think you're giving and place spyware and cookies on your pc to track your online activities. Usually they just want to sell you something, but sometimes it's more devious than that. And you need to be aware while online.

I ran across some interesting articles today that pointed out several uses for baking soda. It got me thinking about the many, many products out there that we overlook in favor of convenient packaging and marketing gimmicks.

Also, with the "D" word being thrown around lately. I've been teaching the kids about how people lived during The Great Depression in the 30s. It stretches the imagination a little to think of ways to provide for your family in difficult financial times. I've been there, and so I hope to bring to the discussion some tips that may help folks batten down the hatches. 

As I like to say, expect the best, prepare for the worst.