I've been an editor with ThriftyFun since 2005 and became Editor-in-Chief in 2009. My mother, Susan, was the founder of ThriftyFun and scrimped all her life to have enough for her kids. In my life, I am always balancing what I want with what I need, in regards to my money, my time and my health.
Thanks to everyone who makes ThriftyFun a wonderful place to find answers.
Caprese Salad with CucumbersCaprese salad is one of my favorite summertime dishes but it can be a refreshing side for fall or winter dinner. I marinated cucumbers to give it some more crunch and substance. It was well received when I brought it to a pasta dinner recently.
Pho Bò (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)This delicious soup is a favorite at my local Vietnamese restaurant. I thought it would be fun to try to make it at home. I made it from scratch, including the beef broth. I also made crispy fried shallots (hành phi). Store bought broth and crispy shallots or onions would be just as delicious.
Storing and Caring for Face MasksAlthough mask mandates were stopped earlier this summer, the new variants of COVID-19 are bringing them back. Many areas require masks for any indoor public places and some places, like hospitals and courtrooms, have never stopped requiring them. Here are some tips and tricks that may help you keep your masks organized and at hand when you need them.
How Are You Using Your Stimulus Payment?
Many U.S. citizens are receiving money from the government this week, in order to stimulate the economy and help struggling families during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a big help for many people, including my family. I'm using about half of the payment to cover an upcoming surgery and the other half will pay off a hospital stay from last February.
Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono)The addition of the egg and lemon makes a basic chicken soup into the ultimate comfort food. The finished dish is tangy and savory, with flavors reminiscent of egg drop soup. Best of all, it is easy to put together for a quick weeknight dinner.
Saving Money When Visiting Las VegasLas Vegas is a popular destination for many travelers, even if you don't enjoy gambling. There are all sorts of music events, museums, tournaments, fine dining and sightseeing options year round. Many businesses will hold conferences there, taking advantage of the lower airfare and bulk discounts for lodging. However, the costs can really add up if you are not careful. Here are some ways to avoid spending too much when you visit.
