Responsible savings and oils to the rescue!

We had hoped to go to Hawaii with the kids this summer, but we made the responsible decision to put the money toward a vehicle to replace our truck we have had for nine years. I am sooo happy to have that beast of a truck out of my life and garage! 

We wanted to invest in something that will last and will hold more passengers, so we got a 2013 Durango. It has very low miles and great features.  With the truck trade-in and down payment, we still have a steep payment, but it will fit into our budget nicely because we won't be paying tuition for Austin next school year. 

My other savings:

*Did a massive stock-up at Costco and Winco to fill the pantry and keep us out of the stores. Also stocked up on Capri Sun drinks for 99 cents at Smiths. These will be good for our summer pool trips. 

*Baked whole wheat bread and buns. I used the double recipe but took 3/4 of the dough to fill my huge bread pan and it finally produced a good sized loaf. I was able to make 6 buns with the leftover. 

*Made more pancake mix and pancakes to freeze for the week

*Made granola bars 

*Ry cut Austin's hair

*Made a batch of homemade tortillas 

*The windy weather kept us indoors most of last weekend, but it calmed enough that we could take the kids out to fly a kite I bought on clearance a few years ago. The kids had a great time. 

*I had 2 workshops last week for my side businesses. I did a card class and lip balm class. I had a great turn out and am excited to keep growing!

*I fought my allergies and cold last week with the doTERRA oils and did not have to use any medications. Lavender calmed my sneezing, Breathe helped my wheezing, and I added honey and 3 drops of lemon essential oil to hot water to soothe my throat. I experimented and added a drop of On Guard protecting blend to the mix and it added a nice little spice flavor and will help fight the germs. 

*The baby had a bad diaper rash from overnight BMs, so I added a few drops of lavender to a tbsp of fractionated coconut oil in a container and rubbed some on.  It cleared right up! I wish I started doing this a year ago when I was spending a fortune on various creams. 

*Took Austin to his last dermatologist apt for his wart issue. The oregano/melaleuca blend I have been using made a huge difference. There was one last little bit that needed removal so now I need to be diligent with the oils so I can save the gas and co-pay in the future. 

*My friend gave me some lettuce from her garden! Yum!!

*Ryan is getting ready to paint the exterior of our house.  He is doing the work with his dad's help which will save a ton. It's hard to believe we have been in this house for 9 years!

*I have been diet soda free for over a month! I confess I did sneak a sip last week but it was disgusting! I drink sprite if I am out with the kids so we can all share. That way we are all only having a small amount.