#best frugal living tips to follow

[izvmimi]

cw: canon deviation. time-skip (post demon slaying). babies. fem!reader.

“And what are you looking at?”

Genya is known for how intimidating he can be, but the round-cheeked, giggling child held at eye level between his hands right now will never see anything other than a loving father no matter how intensely he pretends to glare at him. The giggly ball of dough, practically hairless still despite nearly three months and a half in the world, kicks its feet and Genya smiles, helplessly charmed, before blowing a raspberry into his cheek and lowering him into his lap.

“Those Shinaguzawa family genes are no joke,” your friend jokes. She’s been watching the baby carefully for the past few minutes since she and Tanjiro entered the home, bearing gifts of cloth diapers and handmade quilt blankets, among other soft things. Genya is quickly defensive, reminding her for the nth time that your son has your nose, but you laugh to dispel the tension. After all, she’s right. The baby’s eyes are practically the same as his father's and his uncle's, although when he smiles ear to ear, his eyes close like yours do. 

“He looks just like his daddy,” you agree. You’re still setting your dining table for six and your friends have gotten up to help you pour tea for six, and collect plates of dorayaki, senbei and edamame to set at the table.

Sanemi chuckles, adjusting his sitting position on the tatami.

“I mean, I think we deserve that much,” he says, gruffly, as he supports himself. You know what he means, and nod solemnly without additional comment while his wife squeezes his shoulder before disappearing to follow you. Your friends have congratulated you after the birth of your first child multiple times, having taken turns assisting you right after delivery, but you haven’t seen them in a month or so, and adjusting to your new life has been rewarding but difficult. One of them fills your pantry with dried goods while the other scans the premises for anywhere that she can clean or reinforce. You thank them, a smile on your face.

“We’re doing great. Genya takes good care of me, don’t worry,” you remind them, and they have no problems believing it. 

Your baby thankfully isn’t fussy, and Genya is a surprisingly adept father, quick to learn the basics of bottle feeding and diapering, and making sure your house is clean and comfortable to live in. Living in relative poverty as a child made him work hard and be frugal, experiencing tragedy made him thoughtful and protective, and he does his absolute best to take care of you. 

He’d always promised to take care of you as long as you both lived.

When you return to the entertainment room, your friends and you settling next to the men you’ve chosen, you lay your head on Genya’s shoulder, thankful that he’s the one that you chose, and he chose you just the same.

…

Sanemi and his wife stay the night, and once everyone has turned in from the night and your son is sleeping peacefully in his bassinet, you lay in bed, wrapped warm in Genya’s arms. 

“We need a nephew or niece of our own, don’t you think?” you muse. “Gotta get them in the sack faster before they can’t catch up to us.”

Genya snorts, pressing his chin on the soft of your shoulder as he holds you closer. 

“That’s their business,” he murmurs, gruffly. “By the way, tell your friend to stop calling our kid ‘tofu’.”

You giggle. “Has it been bothering you?”

“Yes or I wouldn’t be bringing it up right now.”

“I think it’s cute,” you tease, turning in his hold. He’s surprised by the sudden movement, you can tell, by the red in your cheeks. “What?”

Genya blinks, then kisses your forehead. “Nothing.”

“Is something on my face?” you ask. 

“No. You’re beautiful.” You beam at this, then pull the covers tighter around your body.

“You’re a good dad, Genya,” you remind him.  You’re not sure that he needs to hear it, but you want to reassure him. He’s heard tip after tip from his older brother today and you overheard Sanemi telling him his mother would be proud of him. You hope it sinks in because she would, and you wonder if he’s still mulling over the thought.

The sweet child nicknamed ‘tofu’ to his father’s chagrin sleeps through the night with parents that love him more than anything on earth, because they love each other more than life itself.

[genremarketing]

Top 5 Books to Master Money - A Reading List for Financial Success

Many people are striving to achieve financial success. These books offer a wide variety of perspectives on wealth and money management. You're seeking a narrative-based explanation of key money lessons. Clason's tales help readers create a healthy connection with money. His advice is applicable for anyone wanting to improve their finances. 1. The Millionaire Mind This book is a must-read to anyone trying to understand how they can manage their money. Kiyosaki employs his childhood memories with two fathers, one of them wealthy, the other less fortunate - to help readers build a life full of financial freedom and wealth. You'll be taught the value of investing and saving strategies to live debt-free and the best way to make mindful spending choices. The Millionaire's Mind shows how self-made millionaires did not make their money through a simple life. They utilized their understanding of investing to make savvy choices, even during recessions. The book will assist you in developing a powerful abundance mindset that will propel the way to financial prosperity. 2. The Richest Man In Town This book offers an appealing alternative to other books on personal finance which are highly technical. This classic offers timeless financial wisdom regarding wealth accumulation, preservation, and sharing. Learn important concepts such as being mindful of your spending soliciting advice, and investing to earn a profit. This book is the culmination of a decade-long study by multimillionaire businessman Tony Robbins. He sat down with the world's top billionaire investors and then compiled their most effective tips for everyday people to attain financial freedom. It's a practical guide for people of every income that's easy to grasp and implement. This book is perfect for those who want to learn how to manage their finances without having their lifestyle or leisure diminished. Ramit Sethi's philosophies are no-nonsense and a comprehensive six-week program that covers savings, banking budgeting, debt and investing. 3. The Millionaire Next Door This book challenges the conventional notions of wealthy Americans. Through years of research and case studies, Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko show that millionaires reside in average communities have older vehicles, avoid excessive usage of credit cards and place a greater emphasis on financial savings over spending. This classic book is a guide towards accumulating wealth. Frugality is the core of the FIRE movement (Financial Independence and Retirement Early). This book shows how staying within your means can assist you in attaining financial freedom and a early retirement. This is a must read for anyone who wants to build wealth and achieve a comfortable life. However, it is not so helpful for people looking for practical advice on budgeting and investing tips. The original edition of this book was prone to a bias of survivorship, focusing on people who have already become millionaires. Sarah Fallaw's follow-up book, The Next Millionaire Next Door addresses this issue with a wider sample to lessen the influence of survivorship bias. 4. The Most Rich Girl in Town If you need some inspiration to get over financial stress the book has it in spades. Rather than presenting you with the complete plan, it will encourage you to examine your values and formulate financial goals that reflect your beliefs. George Clason’s faux-biblical stories have attracted investors since the 1920s. The book is based on his advice. It explains how reducing expenses can help you to build wealth, while also teaching you to avoid debt and focus on charitable giving.

Tony Robbins dedicated ten years to research for the book, interviewing billionaire financiers on the best strategies for building wealth. This book is aimed at anyone who would like to meet their financial goals, whether they are seasoned investors or simply need a little guidance. It also provides tips for getting through challenges like unemployment and health crises. 5. The Most Rich Girl in the World Understanding how to save money is important, whether you're looking to retire with ease, begin an enterprise, or just give more to family and friends. There are plenty of books with practical tips and inspiring stories to help you on your journey. Kiyosaki’s controversial book challenges the American dream of owning the home of your dreams and is focused on how you can become financially smart by focusing on what is the most important in life. The author also gives tips on saving and avoiding credit card debt. This book provides a guide to develop a financial plan and budget that's aligned with your individual objectives. Singletary's advice has been praised by readers as an effective resource for both new and experienced investors who are looking to refresh their knowledge. It's as if you have a knowledgeable partner to walk you through the maze of managing money. Video from YouTube

[tourismirctc]

Cheap South Package Tours: Exploring the Vibrant Charms of South India

Are you craving a trip that immerses you in rich culture, landscapes, and history without breaking the bank? If so, consider commencing on a cheap south package tour. These tours are designed to offer a low-cost yet unforgettable tour experience, allowing you to discover the beautiful location of South India while not having to fear going over your finances.

Explore the essence of South India with thoughtfully planned itineraries that provide views into its calm backwaters, beautiful hill stations, vibrant towns, and famous historical monuments. Immerse yourself in different cultures, and flavors through sensory-enriching activities.

Exploring South India

Dive into the captivating mosaic of South India, in which every destination spot embodies the state's numerous cultural history. Every kingdom has something exclusive to discover, from the lovely temples of Tamil Nadu to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. South India has something for each flavor, no matter your hobbies in records, gastronomy, or the outdoors.

Benefits of the South India Travel Package

Convenience is a primary advantage of selecting a South India travel package. With all-inclusive packages, you can fully relish your journey, because your lodging, transportation, and touring arrangements are taken care of. These packages are a great choice for frugal travelers because they may accommodate a variety of budgets.

Popular Destinations Covered

From the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey to the majestic ruins of Hampi, South India is dotted with an array of captivating destinations waiting to be explored. Some of the must-visit places include:

Munnar, Kerala

Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

Coorg, Karnataka

Goa

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Activities and Experiences

Apart from tourism, South India offers a variety of activities and experiences to enjoy. There are many activities to do in this colorful region, including floating on the backwaters of Kerala, going on a wildlife safari in Periyar National Park, and exploring the ancient remains of Hampi.

Seasonal Considerations

The seasonal differences must be considered when organizing a tour of South India. Despite the year-round tropical weather in the area, the best time to come will depend on your schedule and desired activities. For example, the monsoon season (June to September) offers a distinct charm with its rich greenery and showers, while the winter months (November to February) provide great circumstances for exploring hill stations and coastal places.

Booking and Reservation Process

Booking cheap South package tours is a straightforward process. Simply browse via numerous tour operators or travel sites offering South journey programs, evaluate charges and itineraries, and select the only one that best suits your choices and finances. Now, follow the instructions to book your tour online, or contact the tour operator for assistance.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your money:

Off-peak seasons provide reduced pricing and fewer crowds.

Look for package deals that include lodging, meals, and sightseeing activities.

Choose budget-friendly accommodations like guesthouses, homestays, or backpacker hostels.

Be flexible about your trip plans to take advantage of last-minute specials and discounts.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Before booking your South India travel package, check consumer reviews and testimonials from other travelers. This will give you information about the quality of service, itinerary highlights, and basic pride ranges, permitting you to make an informed decision.

Conclusion

It's a fantastic opportunity to revel in the lively charms of South India without breaking the bank. With carefully designed itineraries, accessible services, and customizable options, those tours assure an awesome revel in complete cultural discoveries, brilliant surroundings, and precious recollections.

Source: https://sites.google.com/view/cheap-south-package-tours-expl/home?authuser=9

[passiveincomemoney]

25 Must-Read Resources for Managing Personal Finances

Navigating the vast ocean of personal finance information can be daunting. With countless resources available, it's crucial to find reliable and insightful sources that can guide you through the complexities of managing your money. To help you stay informed and make empowered financial decisions, here's an ultimate list of 25 sources, ranging from websites to podcasts, that offer valuable advice, practical tips, and up-to-date financial news.

Harvard Business Review: Offers a range of articles on personal finance management, with a focus on overcoming limiting beliefs about money and building a diverse investment portfolio.

Enrichest: Curates expert advice and resources across various personal finance topics, helping you achieve your financial goals.

Policygenius: Provides a list of the best websites for learning about money, covering everything from budgeting to investing.

Lifehack: Features a selection of valuable websites that offer free personal finance education and resources.

Mint: A comprehensive tool for budget tracking and financial planning.

NerdWallet: Offers in-depth reviews and comparisons of financial products, alongside helpful guides.

Investopedia: A go-to resource for financial education, offering clear explanations of complex financial concepts.

The Simple Dollar: Provides practical financial advice and personal narratives to help you manage your money better.

Wise Bread: A community of bloggers specializing in frugal living, personal finance, and money-saving strategies.

The Penny Hoarder: Focuses on unique ways to earn, save, and manage money.

HerMoney: Tailored financial advice for women, covering a range of topics from investing to retirement planning.

Ellevest: A financial company that empowers women with investment strategies and financial planning.

Entrepreneur: Offers insights into the financial aspect of starting and growing a business.

The Financial Diet: Discusses personal finance in the context of lifestyle choices and habits.

Mr. Money Mustache: Advocates for financial freedom through frugality and smart investing.

Bogleheads: Follows the investment philosophy of John Bogle, focusing on low-cost index fund investing.

The Balance: Provides comprehensive guides, articles, and reviews on personal finance.

Money Under 30: Offers financial advice specifically tailored for young adults.

Financial Samurai: Delivers in-depth analysis and discussions on wealth management and financial independence.

Afford Anything: Explores the concept that you can afford anything but not everything, emphasizing smart financial choices.

The Mad Fientist: Focuses on financial independence and early retirement strategies.

Dough Roller: Aims to help readers make sense of the complex world of finance and investing.

Get Rich Slowly: Shares personal stories and lessons on building wealth slowly and steadily.

The White Coat Investor: Provides financial advice for high-income professionals, particularly in the medical field.

Econlife: Breaks down economic concepts and their impact on everyday life and personal finance.

These sources are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to personal finance education. They offer a blend of perspectives, from professional financial advisors to individuals sharing their personal journeys toward financial stability. By exploring these resources, you'll gain a well-rounded understanding of personal finance and find strategies that resonate with your financial situation and goals.

Remember, staying informed is a continuous process, and these sources can be your companions on the journey to financial literacy and independence. Happy learning!

[blacklinks01]

Decoding Financial Freedom: A Holistic Approach to økonomisk uavhengig

Embracing Frugality for Maximum Impact

Mindful Spending Habits

In the pursuit of financial independence, every penny counts. Our guide to økonomisk uavhengig habits encourages you to assess your needs versus wants, helping you cut down on unnecessary expenses. By adopting a conscious approach to spending, you can accelerate your savings and amplify your journey towards økonomisk uavhengig.

Negotiation Mastery

Learn the art of negotiation mastery to secure better deals on essential services. From monthly bills to major purchases, our experts provide actionable tips on negotiating effectively, ensuring you keep more money in your pocket, bolstering your financial independence aspirations.

Beyond Retirement: Crafting Your Ideal Lifestyle

Lifestyle Design

Financial independence is not solely about retiring early; it's about designing a life you love. Our guide to lifestyle design empowers you to envision your ideal life, set meaningful goals, and align your financial strategy accordingly. Uncover the secrets to living life on your terms, unburdened by financial constraints.

Travel Hacking for Budget-Friendly Adventures

Explore the world without breaking the bank through travel hacking. Our experts reveal insider tips on accumulating miles, finding the best travel deals, and making the most of loyalty programs. Achieve the perfect blend of financial freedom and enriching experiences through strategic travel planning.

The Digital Landscape: Monetizing Your Passion

Online Entrepreneurship

In the digital age, turning your passion into profit has never been more accessible. Uncover the world of online entrepreneurship, whether through e-commerce, blogging, or digital services. We guide you on building a successful online venture, leveraging the vast opportunities the internet presents for financial independence.

Social Media Influence: Turning Followers into Income

For those with a strong online presence, discover the art of social media influence. Transform your followers into a source of income through collaborations, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Our guide provides actionable steps to monetize your influence, contributing to your journey towards financial autonomy.

Navigating Economic Shifts: Resilience in the Face of Change

Adapting to Market Trends

In the ever-evolving economic landscape, adaptability is key to financial success. Our experts explore strategies for adapting to market trends, ensuring your financial portfolio remains robust even in the face of economic shifts. Stay ahead of the curve and safeguard your path to økonomisk uavhengig.

Crisis-Proofing Your Finances

The unexpected can disrupt even the most well-laid financial plans. Our guide to crisis-proofing your finances equips you with strategies to weather economic downturns, job loss, or unforeseen emergencies. Build a financial fortress that withstands the test of unexpected challenges.

The Roadmap to Success: Taking Action Today

Personalized Financial Consultation

At [Your Company Name], we understand that your financial journey is unique. Our team of experts is ready to provide a personalized financial consultation tailored to your specific circumstances. Whether you're just starting or seeking to optimize existing strategies, we are here to guide you towards the financial freedom you deserve.

Join the økonomisk uavhengig Movement

Embark on the journey to financial independence with a community of like-minded individuals. Join the økonomisk uavhengig movement through online forums, events, and resources. Connect with others who share your aspirations, exchange insights, and celebrate milestones together.

In conclusion, achieving økonomisk uavhengig is not just a financial goal; it's a transformative journey that encompasses mindful spending, strategic investments, diversified income streams, and a resilient mindset. Take the reins of your financial future today and stride confidently towards a life of true financial freedom.

[proficientman]

Facebook Ad Running Tips

Once upon a time in the vast kingdom of Facebook, there lived a brave marketer named Mark. Mark was on a mission to conquer the treacherous realm of advertising and bring glory (and sales) to his kingdom. Armed with ten trusty tips, he embarked on his epic journey to run a Facebook ads campaign like a boss.

Tip 1: Be as targeted as a ninja assassin.

Just like a ninja assassin striking its target with precision, Mark knew the importance of honing in on his ideal audience. No more spraying and praying like a desperate farmer trying to water his entire field with a single hose. Mark carefully crafted his audience, making sure it was as sharp as a samurai sword.

Tip 2: Creative content is king, my friend.

In the land of Facebook, content is king, my friend. Mark knew that his ads needed to be as captivating as an Oscar-winning movie. So, he put on his director's hat and crafted compelling visuals and captivating copy that would make even Shakespeare blush.

Tip 3: A/B testing is your secret weapon.

Just like a secret agent testing different gadgets before embarking on a mission, Mark knew the power of A/B testing. He created multiple variations of his ads, constantly tweaking and optimizing until he found the winning formula. It was like playing Russian roulette, except without the risk of getting shot in the head.

Tip 4: Retargeting is your loyal sidekick.

Retargeting was Mark's trusty sidekick, always there to save the day. Like a loyal dog fetching a stick, Mark leveraged the power of retargeting to reach out to those who had shown interest in his kingdom before. It was like having a mini-army of loyal followers who would do anything to please their king.

Tip 5: Timing is everything, my friend.

Timing is everything in the kingdom of Facebook. Mark knew that his ads needed to appear at the right time, like a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat. So, he carefully analyzed the best times to reach his audience, ensuring that his ads would pop up when they were most likely to convert. It was like being a master illusionist, manipulating time itself.

Tip 6: Budget wisely, my friend.

In the realm of Facebook ads, budgeting is as crucial as a superhero's ability to fly. Mark knew that he needed to allocate his budget wisely, like a frugal grandma counting her pennies. He set daily and lifetime budgets, ensuring that he wouldn't blow his entire kingdom's fortune on a single campaign.

Tip 7: Don't be afraid to get creative, my friend.

In the land of Facebook, creativity is the currency of success. Mark knew that he couldn't be afraid to think outside the box, like a mad scientist inventing a time machine. He experimented with different ad formats, from carousel ads to video ads, discovering new ways to engage his audience and stand out from the crowd.

Tip 8: Keep an eye on the competition, my friend.

Just like a spy gathering intelligence for a top-secret mission, Mark kept a close eye on his competitors. He analyzed their strategies, dissected their ads, and learned from their successes and failures. It was like being a detective in a game of cat and mouse, always one step ahead of the competition.

Tip 9: Embrace the power of automation, my friend.

Automation was Mark's secret weapon, like Tony Stark's Iron Man suit. He leveraged Facebook's powerful tools to automate his campaign, saving time and effort. It was like having an army of minions to do his bidding,

Tip 10: Analyze, optimize, and repeat.

Last but not least, Mark knew that the key to success was analyzing, optimizing, and repeating the process. It was like being a scientist in a lab, constantly experimenting and fine-tuning his ads to achieve the best results. It was a never-ending cycle of improvement, like Groundhog Day without the cheesy romance.

And so, armed with these ten tips, Mark embarked on his Facebook ads campaign like a fearless warrior. He conquered the kingdom of advertising, bringing glory and sales to his kingdom. And they all lived happily ever after, with a lot more money in their pockets. The end.

#ppc #facebookadsexpert #smallbusiness #digitalagency #graphicdesign #digitalmarketingtips #facebookstatus #dropshipping #googleadwords #facebookforbusiness #facebookadsmastery #digitalmarketingservices #marketingonline #shopify #webdesign #emailmarketing #facebooklikes #marketingagency #socialmediamanagement #google #facebookmessenger #facebookmemories #onlinebusiness #instagrammarketing #facebooklike #facebookgroup #leadgeneration #contentmarketing #facebookshop #socialmediamanager

[onetooneto2]

토토사이트

A quick look at the earth of gambling guidelines reveals at least a couple general categories to get guidelines and tips to help you win profit online. Long-time article author and casino guru Gayle Mitchell supplies a list of single-sentence points that leave your thinking to the person. This sort of tip is usually self-explanatory and simple follow. 토토사이트

For example , Mitchell's workshops and workshops advise casino game enthusiasts to change $1, $5, $10 and $20 bills into gold coins, then carry a coins in a suitable container so that you can judge a bankroll based on the elements of the bucket. It might be great recommendations for someone whom finds it too easy to snap that will folding money journey roll.

If you're some sort of online player, there are actually similar gambling recommendations, such as setting targeted limits for each visit at the computer. Like a player might have 1, 000 points or even dollars in the profile and set your limit of the loss of 100, or two hundred. (The idea of when ever to quit is the area of interest of numerous articles, classes and blogs. )

The other category which fits under the betting tips umbrella might possibly be gambling strategy. These hints may require more than number of words to really come to be useful. But methodology tips are also fundamental to success in a are living casino or on the internet.

An example: You can't create a straight in on-line poker without a 5 or simply a 10. That may look simple enough as it is actually, but when you are investigating two hole bank cards and the three-card loser s in Hold them this small piece becomes part of your strategy. This is also true if you end up playing video holdem poker and have to decide that cards to hold on top of.

Of course, these two lists may not cover many of the descriptions of internet casino tips, but they must be enough to start almost any player on the road to additional success. Any guidance is welcome if you find yourself trying to win funds online, right?

Some Good Tips

With this subject, thousands of web pages have been written, in addition to thousands of words are spoken. It's impossible to protect even half of the good gambling tips along with casino tips in a single sitting. However , let's list a few of the most effective bits of gambling system in the interested getting started.

In the movie poker world, Mitchell suggests asking that moneychangers where online casino employees play online video poker. This could connect you with the best two or three devices in the building. This lady also urges video-poker enthusiasts to know approximately full pay together with short pay. Full-pay machines offer highest payback for the style of game - $99 out of each $100 that is bet, by way of example. Look at the payout furniture and see if you are on a full-pay machine (nine coins for a extensive house and 6-8 for a flush. )

In video internet poker, you can throw away many five cards. Certain experts gambling approach say that a gamer will, over time, pitch out all six cards once in each and every five or five hands.

Key casino tips: Among the best gamble in any casino, as reported by Mitchell, are a decide upon number of slots plus the full-pay video poker-online games. The best solution for blackjack can be described as table where the automotive dealer has to stand with 17. According to this approach expert, keno, massive wheel and double-zero roulette should be towards the bottom of everyone's engage in list. The bottom set for every player: Come to be an educated casino targeted visitor. Check out the Frugal Gaming books by Jean Scott.

When it comes to authentic gambling strategy, this thinking cap may need to go one as well as the player must expend a little more time to every single issue. Let's take a look at a great example coming from John Robison concerning slot play along with the issue of having fun with full coins.

Essential gambling tips: Robison and many have expected whether the additional probability of full-coin spots is rewarded along with higher payback. Seeing that this guy has a masters degree in laptop or computer science and exploration, his study of greater than 1, 000 slots might be a good warning of what to believe.

In the interest with keeping things uncomplicated for now, here are a few involving his recommendations.

to With a straight multiplier machine, you are blowing time if you insert more than one coin with at a time. Same applies to bonus multiplier.

i Play full gold coin on buy-a-pay units, multi-line and at hybrid machines.

u Play full gold coin an progressives.

Involving gambling tips, hundreds of systems have been constructed and tried within the gambling strategy. Such as, the Martingale method included the assistance to double your bet after each and every loss, so that together with the first win you would recover the thing that was lost previously. This may work, but seeing that each gambling happening stands alone, it could take a minute or a life time to hit that earliest win.

Of course you can find probabilities and predicted value and so on, if you are chances are 1 within 10, 000, it's likely you have to wager 9, 999 times cascade over that one win. You should also lose 100, 000 times before impacting ten in a short period. The best advice involving gambling tips could be: do just what the winners undertake and hope for the most beneficial.

References Gambling https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambling

[projectcubicle1]

Owning a Home Doesn’t Have to Burn Your Budget: 12 Things That Frugal Householders Do

Owning a Home Doesn’t Have to Burn Your Budget: 12 Things That Frugal Householders Do

  Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or have experience running a household, cutting everyday costs can be quite a challenge. The average US household spends $61,334 per year – which is a lot. The good news is that you can get a lovely home and not burn through your budget, not to mention that you can save valuable resources. Frugal homeowners swear by these ten money-saving tips. 1. Explore Your Tax Deduction Options In 2022, the standard tax deduction for homeowners was between $19,400 and $25,900, depending on the homeowner’s status. Take advantage of tax deductions because you can save thousands each year, but only if they exceed the standard set by the IRS. Otherwise, claiming your tax dedication won’t be worth it. These are some of the things you can deduct: property taxes, mortgage interest, and even your home office costs. 2. Have a Home Warranty Coverage A home warranty will help you protect your budget in the event of unforeseen expenses and sudden repairs. “Your major applications and built-in systems, like your air conditioner, hot water heater, refrigerator or stove, can be repaired without having to pay costly repair feed,” explains Steve Upshaw, CEO of Cinch Home Services (https://www.cinchhomeservices.com/faq-library/-/faq/what-does-a-home-warranty-cover), a cross-country home warranty provider. And that’s not all. According to Mr. Upshaw, if your appliance is deemed irreparable or will cost more than a new appliance to repair, “your home warranty company will replace it with an appliance of similar value.” 3. Do Research on Utility Providers Knowing who you are paying and what for is one of the most effective cost-cutting measures for savvy homeowners. Between the electricity bill and your ISP, the costs of basic utilities can vary drastically from one provider to the next. Even if you’ve done your research when you first bought your home, it doesn’t hurt to compare new electricity prices and reassess your utility choices every couple of years. 4. Avoid Wear and Tear Preemptively It’s common advice given to new homeowners, but one we rarely follow – when something’s broken, don’t wait too long to fix it. Damaged systems and broken appliances often consume more electricity and put your household at risk of immediate havoc.

If you want to avoid spending thousands of dollars on repairs, do your best to maintain your key systems and appliances and fix them while you still can. 5. Switch to Smart Home Solutions According to one study, your household could save 10–12% on heating costs and 15% on cooling by using a smart thermostat. And that’s only one small thermostat in a vast network of interconnected devices. Other affordable game-changers include smart light bulbs and plugs, as well as leak sensors, ceiling fans, shades, and blinds. On top of saving energy, smart fridges can also monitor and prevent food waste. 6. Don’t Skimp on Your Wall Insulation Speaking of energy savings, most homeowners lose thousands of dollars a year due to poor insulation. When walls are not properly insulated, they let the warmth in when it’s summer and out during winter. Your heating and cooling systems must always be on to maintain the desired temperature. With air-tight insulation, you can turn them off as soon as you’re nice and balmy. 7. Give Your Appliances a Day Off It’s a matter of habit, but everyone can get used to relying on technology less rather than more. We live in a digital age, and many people have digital jobs. But isn’t that a reason more to disconnect and enjoy some peace and quiet on the weekends? Try turning off all your computers, screens, and inessential tech devices one day a week. It will help you recharge your own batteries and keep a few bucks in your wallet. 8. Become Your Own Handyman Handiwork can be surprisingly rewarding, so why not make it practical, too? With millions of detailed guides and tutorials online, you no longer have to rely on professionals for help. Of course, some complex tasks require expertise and experience, such as electricity and plumbing. However, other tasks are unexpectedly simple and relaxing. Learn one household skill a month, and you’ll save a lot. 9.  Repurpose Old Furniture Pieces DIY interior design has become a major online trend - so much so that thousands of blogs are dedicated to crafting furniture from scratch and refurbishing old pieces. The second option might be even cheaper and more amateur-friendly, as it doesn’t require lots of expensive tools. The old furniture is of finer craft and higher quality, which is a huge plus. Most of the wooden tables, chairs, and beds made in the last century could still be used or repaired to perfection. And the best thing about them is that they will last longer than most brand-new pieces. 10. Develop a Minimalistic Mindset Home organizing and interior design have become very important to us during the lockdown, but do we really need more of the same thing? Think about all the tiny, decorative things you don’t need – your spice jars and shampoo decanters, ceramic pots, and bookholders. All those things that IKEA wants you to think you cannot live without are just tinsels. If they make you happy, great, but keep it moderate! 11.  Manage Your Subscription Fund Do you need more than one or two streaming services? Becoming a homeowner is a good time to learn how to manage resources. That involves recognizing your daily patterns, habits, and activities. Spend a couple of weeks on this task. Be mindful of everything you do during the day - if you watch only one movie every week, this might be a moment to unsubscribe from Netflix and spend that subscription fund on something more important. 12. Create a Budget and Stick to It

Ultimately, being a frugal homeowner doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to every superfluous thing. It’s more about staying aware of your spending habits and curating your life. Sticking to a monthly budget aids both of these resolutions. If you never spend more than you have to, you’ll be able to afford something nice and still put some money on the side. The trick is to be realistic and stay committed.   Do you have a cost-cutting tip you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!   Read the full article

[whatsinyourstory]

Best Tips for Second Hand Books Shopping

Everyone should buy used books, including you, your grandmother, and your best friend. In fact, we'd go so far as to say that everyone should buy second hand books as often as possible, saving new paper books for special occasions, gifting, and those rare, wonderful occasions when you receive a gift certificate for your family's unique gifty holiday.

The arguments go beyond frugality! Everyone knows that a $30 new book is exorbitant at best and impossible at worst. Purchasing a second hand item/book entails more than just the sticker price. It expresses our humanity. It's a social and economic act of heroism. It's the way we should all look about books from now on, not only for our own shelves, but for how we see ourselves as readers, our critical thinking talents, and the future viability of our planet.

Buying and collecting used books is a rewarding and inexpensive hobby, plus, let's face it, anything that keeps books out of landfills helps you live a greener lifestyle.

Paperbacks, hardcovers, and special limited editions all find their way into well-loved libraries.

The most important factor to consider when purchasing a book is that you enjoy it, regardless of how old it is, who wrote it, or what it is about.

Decide what you like

After you've finished reading something you enjoy, take note of the author and additional titles. Search by category and seek assistance from the customer service department a books shop that sells second hand books online. Look at websites and use the links on those pages to find categories. Make a list!

Fantastic Fiction is a wonderful website that we suggest. It's invaluable for finding out what else an author has written, what novels are in a series, what other authors write in a similar style, and when or if the author has any new books coming out.

Examine the Condition of the Second Hand Book

There's nothing wrong with purchasing a second hand book online that is well-read, especially if it's a title you've been looking for a long time. If you are a serious collector or want to ensure that your used books preserve their worth, always aim for the best copy you can buy.

The state of a used book is undeniably significant; a tatty old book will always have a poor monetary value, and when it comes to collectable books, the condition is crucial. No collector wants a dog-eared, scruffy book with a torn or missing spine and ripped or missing end papers (these are the pages that are made up of a double-size sheet folded in half and pasted to the book's inside cover, with the other half serving as the first free page).

Prepare ahead of time

Keep a list with you at all times, or you'll end yourself on an online second hand bookshop like Usedbooksfactory, where your mind will go blank from the sheer number of books on display.

What to Be Aware Of

Take a look at the following examples:

Boards and Spine

Are the boards and spine attached and in good shape if the second hand book is a hardback? Is there any legible lettering on the spine?

Annotation

Look through the book, has it been annotated? Nothing is more infuriating than to pick up a nice copy of a book only to get it home and find that some previous owner has profusely annotated the text in red biro! This particularly applies to use textbooks.

Illustrations

If the book is illustrated, look for a list of illustrations in the front (if there isn't one, ask your local bookshop to find out how many there should be) and then double-check that all of the images are present. A missing illustration devalues a book more than anything else.

Dust Jackets

Just like a missing illustration, a missing or damaged dust jacket can have a significant impact on a book's pricing. Is it possible that the dust jacket has been 'price clipped'? Keep an eye out for fake dust jackets in particular! On the second hand book market, a growing number of books with phony dust jackets are appearing. You only need to glance at eBay to see how many are now available for purchase.

These are just a few of the things to keep an eye out for; if you're unsure, ask your local second hand bookshop for guidance.

Maintain an open mind.

Continue browsing! You might prefer fiction or history, but that doesn't mean there isn't something else out there for you. Give yourself plenty of time to go through all of the unique and interesting books available in second hand bookshops.

[xenofact]

Xenofact's Job Hacks #3

It's Part 3 of Helpful Job Hacks for you, dear reader. I've posted Parts 1 and Parts 2, and there's more to come. As I watch layoffs and stupid decisions screw people over, I want to make sure I get out all the survival tips I've gathered over nearly 4 decades.

Life Stuff

Learn Home Budgeting - This is going to help you control your money.  When you control your money, it can’t control YOU, and the job can’t either.

Live Accessibly - If you have control over where you live, find places with good transport, walkability, etc.  This way if you have to switch jobs it’s easier to get there.

Learn What Matters - I downshifted after a bad life phase, and saved money and had a much more fulfilling life.  Take time to review what you really need, what your goals are.  Then you can make the job work for you.

Learn “Happy Frugality” - Learn how to spend money well, so your money goes farther.  Do you need the fancy clothes, etc.?  Besides, when you know how to spend money, the job scene controls you less - and when you’re making more money it goes a lot farther!

Invest - In All Ways - Sure your retirement funds are important since they let you quit work.  But use your job to invest in yourself and your life in ways that give you control.  Retirement funds, training that can turn into a side job, etc.  Channel what you can into using your job to give you control.

Help Out - When you get your career in order help others out.  Share your knowledge, because it sucks.  It’s good for the soul

TACTICS

Be Visible . . . - If people know you in a positive way, you’re harder to fire and people will be less likely to think bad things.  Network, be friendly, maybe do a side thing people see.

. . . Be Invisible - If being visible isn’t your thing or isn’t advisable, learn to be invisible so you don’t get bothered or blamed.  Change up your hours, learn when you can stay silent, learn how to touch base so people think you’re OK.

Get A Side Project - Charities, events, etc. offer a chance to “do something on the side at work.”  This lets you get visible, be seen in a good light, and of course stop doing your actual job.  I’ve seen people get raises based on doing stuff not relevant to their work.

Volunteer To Avoid - Running an errand, taking something across the building, etc. is an excuse to get out of work for awhile.  Use this, because having to hike across the building is probably preferable to sitting at your desk.

Use Your Hobby - Carefully - If you have a hobby relevant for your job, it can help you on the job - say if you’re an artist and you do stuff for the department newsletter.  This can make your job fun, look good, and give you a reason not to work.  It can also result in more work so be careful.

Use Your Devices - Your own devices can let you take advantage of your job.  Sure your phone lets you chat with people, but a cheap laptop might let you write over lunch.  Find ways to use your phone, your own computer, etc. to do more over lunch, hidden in a meeting room, or on your commute.

Magician’s Force - Need to ask someone for a decision?  Make a recommendation that you want and present it as a suggestion or best option.  80% of the time the person or manager will follow your advice as it’s easier.

PEOPLE

Network - Look, you’re stuck at work.  So get to know people as it can help you on the job, keep you update on the gossip, and you may make actual friends.  Then you can band together to take over OR escape.

Nepotism - If you think everyone got their jobs due to qualifications, you’re wrong.  So if you like your job and it’s at a good place, help other people get on board - ethically!  A reference matters, so direct them to go jobs where you are.  Then you can band together . . .

Start An Interest Group - Start a group to share interests -bookclubs, artists, cooking, etc.  This looks good, builds connections, and lets you make allies.

More to come, dear friends, more to come . . .

-Xenofact

[fikazephyr]

“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.”

― Margaret Thatcher

𝐚𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 :: the view from a high rise overlooking a city, the sound of ice clinking against glass, the feeling after a really good shower, living frugally despite having the means for luxury, orders made under a pseudonym, bloodied knuckles and poorly suppressed rage, a feather tipping the scales, an earth-shattering sob, a smile that could light the skies

𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 :: james hall was born a very lucky little boy indeed. his parents, james and renee hall, were salem natives that ran a successful farm. one could say they were the picture of a happy couple, and the couple became a gleeful trio with the birth of their tiger shifter. three years after the birth of their baby boy, renee came home with a new addition: james’ new brother david. the family led a picture perfect existence of the typical hallmark, cookie cutter life. 

perhaps it was the lack of incentive that pushed a young james hall into delinquency in early adolescence. there was no rhyme or reason to his misbehavior, and it was further motivated by his above average intelligence. he never had to go to class to pass his exams. his grades never slipped, and so his parents never interfered. they were happy so long as their boys were safe. some may call it bad parenting, neglectful eyes, any choice from the myriad of commentary made about children whose parents never truly interfere. 

his issue never caused grief. a teenaged james would stay out partying with people much older than him, but would always come home at the end of the night. if he didn’t, he let his parents know he was staying with a friend. he never left them out of the loop, and he was above all else a family man. he still is, intensely so. his life revolved around his loved ones, even when he wasn’t around to show it. he was the definition of bad boy with a heart of gold, always doing what his mother needed, always there to love and support his brother, always willing to lend dad a hand around the house. he lived a good first half. 

unfortunately not all fairytales have happy endings. it started in the blink of an eye, the fire. mere hours before, they had been celebrating a birthday in the backyard. they had been happy. a happy family. james only remembers flashes of what happened. waking up to his parents screaming at him to get david out of the house. the cracking of wood in the pressure of blazing heat. the feeling of every drop of blood in his body reaching the temperature of the flames around him. the firefighters holding him back from running in for his parents. the way his voice cracked in a half-sob, half-scream to them. MOM! DAD! LET GO OF ME, I HAVE TO HELP THEM! MOM! holding his brother as they both cried, his roars feeling louder than the flames consuming their childhood home. 

he’s never known a grief that stabs deeper. he’s never let himself. soon after the fire, the boys were sent to live with family in texas. james, having just turned 18, thought it would be best to get his younger brother out of salem. they left, james’ best friend in tow, and didn’t look back for years. the earliest years were the hardest, mentally and physically. james had already been struggling with substance use, and he feel further down the hole when they settled into dallas. his casual use of marijuana and alcohol became habits, which turned into experimenting in the party scenes. he had always been a functional junkie, masking it well from others. it never changed. he finished school and sped through college, earning a doctorate degree in half the time it would take a normal person. college was a cocaine-fueled hurricane of accomplishments, driven by the fact that he felt the need to take care of his brother even more. 

just like most things in his life, his plan to take care of his brother until he needed him ended prematurely when david enlisted in the military. james was no longer needed. who would want to be around the asshole that killed his own parents? the fire department stated it had been faulty wiring, but the blaze had happened in the middle of the dry season. james never had gotten over his habit of poorly putting out blunts. the guilt followed him well into his adulthood, pushing him deeper in the arms of addiction. and much like these continuous patterns in his life, something good followed the bad. a diversion from the pain that never ceased to appear. 

he broke into fame over night. the details of how it happened are fuzzy. it was probably another drug fueled adventure that wound up in something a little more permanent. before he knew what exactly was going on, he had a manager, a production team, and a new spot in the limelight. grateful for the distraction, he fell into the life of a hollywood star. he had homes all over america, and was constantly booked, making new music, doing tours. eventually, he lost touch with himself. eventually...he almost killed himself. he almost became the blooming star that died before their 30s, with a cacophony of possible killers to blame. he left the industry without so much as a goodbye to the music world. nobody knows exactly what it is that happened to the superstar.

now, three years later, james lives in an apartment in willow glenn. he had decided he needed to face his past--- thought, he still hasn’t really done that. he’s spent most of his time back in salem indoors, at home, at aa, or at work, and never officially told anyone of his return. he’s lived off of mobile delivery apps and skipping meals when they don’t feel necessary. he isn’t aware of what’s going on in town because he never leaves his apartment for very long, especially not for a week long celebration. 

𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 :: pinterest, spotify

[trenderblog]

8 Financial Tips That Will Make You Rich

Do you dream of living in a mansion and driving around in a Ferrari? Those daydreams may become reality if you start managing your finances more effectively. From the big purchases to the small costs, this article will give you valuable financial advice that will make you rich over time. In fact, if these tips are followed, they’ll make you rich beyond your wildest dreams!

Why Manage Finances?

Before you can truly manage your finances, it’s important to take a step back and look at what managing finances means. While it sounds good in theory, many people have a hard time getting started because they don’t really know where to begin. It’s important to remember that you aren’t alone. The hardest part of managing your finances is just getting started. If you're looking for tips on how to get started with finance management, here are eight money-saving strategies that could help you get there.

1) Budget

Being rich is about more than just saving money. The best way to get ahead financially is to create a budget that lets you save. Budgeting allows you to figure out where your money goes and how much you can put towards savings or other investments. It's important to maintain a consistent budget plan, even if it's only for a month at first—and even if it means cutting back on some of your non-essentials. In fact, budgets don't have to be grim or restrictive; they can make financial freedom seem more attainable by highlighting areas in which you could cut costs while still giving yourself room for fun purchases.

2) Don't Spend Money You Don't Have

Money management is crucial. This tip is obvious, but so many people fail to heed it. If you don’t have enough money to make a purchase, don’t buy it. The only way you can build wealth is if you’re putting more money into your pocket than you are spending on non-essentials. It may be tempting to spend on lifestyle upgrades—that new car or house—but don’t do it until you have extra cash saved up. 3) Set Goals The first thing you’ll want to do is set a goal for yourself. Do you want to have $500,000 in retirement savings by 50? Or maybe you just want to quit your job and be able to pay all of your bills each month. Either way, having a specific number makes it easier to start saving as soon as possible. While it’s true that some people win lotteries and inherit millions of dollars, those are extremely rare circumstances—and there’s no guarantee they’ll happen to you. Chances are, you need a solid financial strategy if you want a comfortable retirement someday.

4) Invest Wisely

Although a lot of people think a home-equity line of credit is a good idea for emergencies, it's probably not. It has an average interest rate around 5 percent and while that might be okay when rates are low, if you’re going to have money in an emergency fund you want it to grow into something that can help you handle any unexpected financial events—not just pay off high-interest debt. In other words, don't ever use your home as an ATM. If you have other savings options available to you—like a credit card or even your retirement account—you should probably use those instead. The key is to avoid carrying a balance month after month and paying interest on money you could otherwise keep in a savings account earning no interest.

5) Save for Emergencies

One of your financial goals should be to have three to six months’ worth of income saved in an emergency fund. This money can help cushion you if you lose your job or need expensive car repairs. It can also help prevent you from dipping into your retirement savings or other long-term investment vehicles. If you’re just starting out, consider building up an emergency fund with a cash app like Chime, which offers a user-friendly interface and features that allow for round-the-clock access to cash transfers. In short: Set aside some money for emergencies so that when they happen, you don’t have to panic—you have a plan in place.

6) Be Frugal

Car insurance isn’t just about protecting your vehicle, but your personal finances as well. If you damage or destroy another person’s car, you could be held liable for medical bills and lost wages related to any injuries sustained by that person. There are many other types of insurance, too. The basic types include auto, home owner’s, homeowner’s association (HOA), renter’s/condo association (Condo fees are separate from regular HOA fees) liability, umbrella liability, health/accident/disability, life/annuity & disability income. Before shopping around for rates on these plans it is recommended that you know how much coverage each plan provides and what exceptions there may be to your policy.

7) Get Insurance

If you have a good relationship with your doctor, consider purchasing your health insurance from him or her. A typical visit to a doctor's office costs around $100. If you paid for five visits a year at $100 per visit, that would cost you $500 annually. With a typical health plan deductible of around $1000, if something catastrophic were to happen and require you to pay for all care out-of-pocket, it’s possible that having paid an extra $500 could save you tens of thousands of dollars over time—potentially hundreds of thousands depending on how long you live and how much medical care costs rise in coming years.

8) Have Fun Saving Money

Fun is a good thing. Spending money can be fun. But not when you have to cut back so far that going out to dinner feels like a luxury. The less you spend, or save, for that matter, often comes with a whole lot of struggle and sacrifice. There’s no need to completely cut out things that bring you joy just because your bank account isn’t giving you any wiggle room. Simply being aware of how much money goes into each spending category—and then seeing if there are ways to re-allocate funds towards savings or investment accounts—can go a long way in making saving feel more enjoyable than painful.

9) Shop Around

Shop around for your credit cards, life insurance and health insurance—it could mean significant savings over time. But make sure you’re looking at all your options (including interest rates and fees) and not just going with what’s easy. Also, start early: The longer you can go without debt, whether it’s credit card or student loans, means that when you do take out a loan or buy a car on credit, that debt will be less expensive overall.

10) Grab Side Hustles

The first step toward building wealth is to take an honest look at your finances and see where you can free up some cash. Look for ways to increase your income, such as pursuing a side hustle or earning more money from your day job. Earning extra money can be as simple as taking on a second job, like freelance work. There are plenty of other great ways to make money: start a business, sell goods and services, or even rent out extra space in your home! The possibilities are endless.

[simplicityts]

100 Baby Challenge Guide | Part I: Overview & Matriarch

Objective

The objective of the 100 Baby Challenge is to give birth to 100 children in as few generations as possible, and successfully raise them to Young Adulthood.

Rules

No cheats or mods, except for ‘bb.moveobjects on’ and ‘reset sim’.

No help from nannies, baby daddies, or free services. Daycare is allowed only when leaving your lot to woo another donor.

You can’t use the same donor twice.

You can’t change pre-existing lot traits or lot traits that you choose, so choose wisely.

A child must reach Young Adulthood to count toward the 100 -- therefore they can’t die or be taken away by social services.

Your matriarch can’t get married until she becomes an elder, and must move out of the household after she is married.

You can’t have a career that takes you out of the household. Example: rabbit-hole jobs.

Only Young Adults can be moved out of the household.

You can’t influence your child’s gender or traits. You must use the randomizer for traits. You can't eat carrots or strawberries. You must avoid Pop and alternative music.

You can only age up:

-> Babies on their actual birthday;

-> Toddlers once they reach level 3 in all skills, or on their birthday, and;

-> When Children and Teens get an A in school.

TIP: Toddlers who reach level 3 or higher in their skills will have a head start in their skills when they age up to children, so don’t just let them languish until their birthdays. (I will go into more detail about this in Part 3: Babies and Toddlers.)

Step 1: Create your Matriarch

According to the official challenge rules by Snarky Witch, your Matriarch can be male (as long as he can become pregnant) or female, but I’m going to use female pronouns for simplicity sake. You can make her look and sound however you want, but she must be a Young Adult.

Choose her traits and aspirations wisely!

1. Aspirations

I highly recommend either the ‘Freelance Botanist’ or ‘Painter Exraordinaire’ aspiration to begin with. I’ve done both, but I personally prefer the former rather than the latter, because you only have to tend to your plants once a day and are therefore not tied to an easel. The problems I encountered with painting are that it takes awhile to finish one painting, and my matriarch would have to start and stop every time she went into labor or had to do anything else (like eat or take care of kids). You can still paint until your plants start generating simoleons (§), but the lot I chose comes with blooming herbs, so I don’t have to wait.

TIP: However, I also recommend switching back and forth between aspirations, because meeting aspiration milestones will give you satisfaction points which you can spend on helpful reward traits (see the Reward Traits section below). In addition to the ‘Freelance Botanist’ (if you choose to garden at all) and the ‘Painter Extraordinaire’ aspirations, you’ll want to complete the following ones as well:

-> Fabulously Wealthy:

You’ll earn 5% interest on your household funds every week. More § for doing nothing? Yes, please!

-> Nerd Brain:

Instantly fix or upgrade any object. Super useful when stuff breaks, and trust me, they will. Completing knowledge based aspirations such as this one will also give you the Quick Learner bonus trait, which will help you learn skills faster.

-> Big Happy Family:

You’ll boost your children’s skill gains whenever you’re nearby, which means they’ll age up faster, and the faster you can age them out, the faster you can make more kids and finish the challenge.

-> Mansion Baron:

Get 10% back on any build mode purchases added to your household funds once a week. You’re going to be buying stuff to furnish your house, so you might as well get some of your § back, no?

-> Serial Romantic:

You might find this handy for the Alluring bonus trait, because it makes you more successful at romantic interactions.

You can still do career based aspirations like Master Chef without actually joining the career. You just won’t be able to complete them once you get to the career based goals. For Master Chef, you can go up to Milestone III. That’s 1,425 satisfaction points right there! Just be sure to switch to this aspiration before you cook anything, and you’ll easily blow through these goals and milestones (same with the other ones).

TIP: I’ll leave you with this last note: don’t bother with children’s aspirations, EXCEPT for your successor! Completing children’s aspirations just wastes time getting them out of the house, but completing these for your successor is beneficial because it means they can buy bonus traits sooner.

2a. Traits

Check out Carl’s Guide to The Sims 4 Traits if you need help narrowing down your traits, but I highly recommend the following:

-> Creative: your sim will become inspired more often, in turn increasing the quality and value of their paintings (higher quality = more §). Choose this one only if you plan on painting being your primary source of income. Otherwise choose something like Cheerful, which will make your sim happier in general, or any of the other traits instead. For instance, I’ve chosen ‘Loves Outdoors’ for my gardeners.

-> Romantic: your sims will be flirty more often, and will gain romantic relationships faster than other sims. This will help you woo and bed donors faster.

-> Family-Oriented: your sim will gain happiness from being around family, which will honestly be most of the time.

2b. Reward Traits

Reward traits can be bought with satisfaction points from the Rewards store. To get to the Rewards Store, press G and then click on the present. 

IMPORTANT! Save your matriarch’s satisfaction points for traits; don’t waste them on potions. However, exchange your Young Adults’ satisfaction points for the ‘Moodlet Solver’ or the ‘Re-Traiting’ reward potion, and then transfer them to your matriarch’s inventory before you move the kid out of your household.

The Moodlet Solver potions will come in handy whenever your sims are mourning the death of someone they know, because it removes all negative moodlets. Don’t mistake this for the Happy potion, which is only a temporary fix.

The Re-Traiting potion, however, is best used on your next matriarch only. The rules of the challenge dictate that you have to randomize all of your children’s traits, so you will inevitably end up with a successor that has unfavorable traits. This potion will allow you to change their traits to more suitable ones. However, focus on stocking up on the Moodlet Solver potions first, and only purchase this one if and when you need it.

I’ve separated the Reward Traits I recommend into 3 categories: general, painters, and gardeners. They’re then ordered from most to least important in each of their categories. If you’re matriarch is a gardener or painter, I recommend buying Never Weary first, then skip to your specific categories, and finally work your way down the rest of the general list. However, anything after Great Kisser really isn’t necessary.

In general...

-> Never Weary (10,000): never have to sleep again! Trust me you’ll want to buy this first, because you’ll get more done if you’re not wasting 6+ hours sleeping.

-> Night Owl (1,000): gain skills 25% faster between 8PM and 3AM. You’re not sleeping any way, so this is great!

-> Frugal (2,000): reduces bills by 25%. Who doesn’t like saving money?

-> Beguiling (2,500): this is my favorite way to woo donors, because it makes it so easy.

-> Great Kisser (3,000): this one increases your Charisma skill every time you kiss, and charismatic sims are more successful at wooing donors.

-> Fertile (3,000): increases your chances of twins and triplets. I don’t recommend this early on. You definitely want to get comfortable with this challenge, and in a groove, before you start popping out multiples.

-> Forever Fresh (8,000): never need to shower or bathe again! Honestly, after the Toddler stage, showering is faster than bathing and isn’t really that much of an inconvenience.

-> Forever Full (10,000): never need to eat again. I like to make my Matriarch and Teens watch the cooking channel while they eat, because it raises their cooking skill, and satisfies their hunger and fun needs at the same time. Therefore this reward, like the previous one, is a very low priority.

For Painters...

-> Marketable (1,500): increases the value of paintings by 10% to triple the usual value. Choose this one, and the next one, if painting is your primary source of income. Otherwise, skip to Night Owl.

-> Creative Visionary (2,000): 20% higher chance of painting Masterpieces, which are worth A LOT of §.

For Gardeners...

-> Morning Sim (1,000): gain skills 25% faster between 5AM and 12PM. This one is great if gardening is your primary source of income, because your plants will need to be tended to and harvested at around 7AM.

For more information on reward traits, check out Carl’s guide here.

Step 2: Choose How to Make Money

I’m not going to spend much time on this, except to clarify which sources of income/careers are allowed. Only Careers that allow you to choose to ‘Work from Home’ are allowed as long as you always choose that option. I’ll try to list all of them, but I’ve only actually tried the Freelancer and Gardener careers with this challenge.

 Work from home careers are as follows:

-> Freelancer (Basegame): including Digital Artist, Programmer, Writer, Fashion Photographer (Moschino Stuff), and Crafter Branch (Eco Lifestyle). I don’t recommend this career, because I found it difficult to manage a work-life balance.

-> Critic (City Living): Art or Food Critic.

-> Style Influencer (Basegame): Trendsetter or Stylist.

-> Gardener (Seasons): I prefer Botanist over Floral Designer, because I have no interest in creating flower arrangements. This is also the career I choose, because my Matriarch’s are usually gardeners.

-> Civil Designer (Eco-Lifestyle): Civil Planner or Green Technician.

-> Military (Strangerville): Covert Operator or Officer.

-> Social Media (City Living): Public Relations or Internet Personality.

Keep in mind that you DON’T have to do any of these careers, but make sure they compliment your Matriarch’s traits if you do. I’d even recommend avoiding these altogether if you’re starting this challenge for the first time.

I choose to pursue the Gardener career, because I get bored with just gardening on its own. This also gives me an additional source of income on top of my side hustles (i.e. gardening, selling collectables, etc..)

Other sources of income include:

-> Painting

-> Gardening

-> Fishing

-> Digging for collectables

-> Selling honey (beekeeping in Seasons)

There’s probably more, but I only have experience with Basegame and Seasons, because, up until recently, those were the only ones I owned.

If you have Seasons installed...

I recommend you get at least one Money Tree, but you don’t have to spend 5,000 points in the rewards store to get a seed. You can easily get a fully grown tree from the Gallery if you have the § , and don’t consider this cheating. Perfect trees are available, but I prefer to download the '3 x Money Fruit Tree’ from SimBuilder20 instead. As I’ve said before, I prefer to make § gardening, so starting with a lower level tree helps me build up my matriarch’s gardening skill and complete the ‘Freelance Botanist’ aspiration quicker.

TIP: You don’t have to keep spending points or simoleons to get more money trees.

Here’s how to get 5 more Money Trees for FREE: go into build mode and put your money tree into your household inventory when it bears fruit. When you do this, the fruit (i.e. seeds) will be separated from the tree. You can then take them out of the inventory and plant them (and your first tree) somewhere on your lot.

Conclusion

Please do a Google search for more information on anything mentioned in this guide. Carl’s Sims 4 guides are a great resource, but so is Youtube, etc..

If you have any additional tips regarding the topics covered in this post, please include them as a note on this thread. Otherwise, stay tuned for Part II: Your Lot wherein we will discuss things like: choosing which lot to purchase, applying lot traits, and saving money in build/buy mode.

[ofbjoe]

Juxtaposition and Derivation (english version)

“Una and Leofric should be asleep now.” Astrid’s hushed voice is barely audible as she comes around the shabby house that saw Bren grow and goes to stand near the road. “No one’s coming.”

“Don’t say their name out loud.”  Eadwulf’s low growl rings behind him. “They’re traitors. They don’t deserve a name.” 

“Are you sure you don’t want to confront them before we end this, Bren?”  she asks. “For closure?” 

“The cart is over there,”  Bren says instead of anything that could be misinterpreted. “Wulf, a hand?” 

“Already on it.” 

They pull the creaking cart out of the shed and bring it to the front of the house to block the only entrance. The two boys step back, panting. At least, Bren is; physical effort never was his strong suit. 

He glances at Eadwulf looking towards his house, towards their last mission for the night. He is rubbing his hands and arms, and Bren is not sure if it’s because of the scars from Master Ikithon’s experiment a few days ago or if he remembers their… first stop of the night. It has been gruesome. 

Bren knows he must do it too, for the good of the Empire, but part of him wants to ask Eadwulf if it was difficult to watch his own flesh and blood die at his own hands. But he decides against it: there’s a trace of confusion and grief and anger in Eadwulf’s eyes, but when he notices Bren staring, it’s gone. 

“You ready?” 

Bren nods. “Yeah.”

His hand is shaking as he makes the flame appear. He closes his eyes, breathes in, breathes out. 

He is quick but methodical. First, the pile of firewood by the east wall. Second, the roof, covered in hay to make it burn quickly. Third, the windows and doors to block the exits.

The smoke starts to billow. Bren steps back, looking at his work. 

A strong hand squeezes his shoulder reassuringly. Another, more delicate, alights on his hip. 

“You made the right choice,”  Astrid says. 

“For the Empire,”  Eadwulf states. 

“For the Empire,”  he echoes. 

The flames are self-feeding now. It’s only a matter of time until—

-----

The roof is bright with flames and he hears more than he sees the first beam yield: the crack is covered by the muted roar of the flames, but the spurt of embers and burning hay it sends flying, rising towards the night sky like thousands and thousands of fireflies, captures his eyes and imagination. 

A vertigo. 

The day has been long helping his father with the crops, and every single muscle hurt, even those he didn’t realize he had. They’re a little short this month, and even though he would very much like to read a book, he knows they have to be frugal with the candles and they can’t read into the night anymore. Which explains Bren’s presence on the front step a few hours after sundown. It’s summer, fireflies’ season. A lazy and lovely and bored evening, looking up at the clear sky splashed with stars.

His mother joins him, sits beside him, and pats her laps. As the almost teenager he is, Bren hesitates, but lies down. She tangles a hand in his hair as they watch the sky in silence.  

“You see that one?”  she says pointing up. 

“The fireflies?” 

“No, silly! Farther away.” 

“The stars?” 

“That’s a planet, that one.” 

“Another place?” 

“Yeah,” she smiles. 

He hums, contemplates the possibilities. 

“And this,”  she adds mischievously, “this is the constellation of the Big Spoon.” 

“Don’t lie to me, mom. I’m too old for this…” 

“ And right next to it is the little spoon!” 

“MOM!” 

“ Not too old for that one, are you?”  she snickers before starting to hum a Zemnian lullaby, her voice, lilting but slightly off-key, drifting him to sleep. He takes her hand, presses a kiss on the back of it and closes his eyes. 

“We should move,” Astrid says. Bren blinks off the vertigo.

There’s shuffling inside the house by now. Panicked barks and yells as his parents realize the situation. Bren frowns. The hand on his shoulder squeezes. A delicate hand slips in his, and tugs. He follows without resistance. 

He looks at the house, at his own quarters upstairs now engulfed in flames. He can picture the door frame where, once a year, his father noted his growth with a small mark and where he himself once tried to do so with an already-adult and annoyed Frumpkin. That door frame must already be crushed by the beam by now. 

 There is a cat at the window, staring at him disapprovingly, calm as ever. 

Bren blinks. The cat is gone. 

Bren blinks a few more times. Was there a cat? He feels like there shouldn’t be a cat in there. He can’t remember why. 

He stops. 

He can’t remember why. 

Him. 

The screams start to pierce through his skull.

“Bren?”

Something in his mind starts to fissure.

-----

“ You asked to see me, Master Ikithon?” 

“Yes, yes I did, Bren. So, how did your little trip to Blumenthal go? Did you see your parents?”

“It went well, Master. They ah… They’re very thankful that I was offered the opportunity to serve the Empire. But ah… they seem worried about me that is.”

“You seem... troubled.”

“Do I?”

“You do. Does your family cause you worry?”

“Well, I miss my family and they miss me in kind. I haven’t been with them for Harvest Close for the third year in a row.”

“Not everyone understands what it means to offer their life for their country. But is that all that bothers you?”

He thinks about telling Trent that he had just learnt about the death of his childhood cat, but decides against it: it is not something worthy of Master Ikithon’s time.

“One night, as they thought I was asleep, I overheard them talking about me. Father thought [REDACTED] and… and Mother, she said she… she [REDACTED].”

“Those sound like very dangerous and very unpatriotic thoughts.”

“And then, they [REDACTED].”

Master Ikithon stays quiet, his gaze so severe and intense Bren had to look down. His jaundiced hands are almost immobile on the table. The silence is almost deafening against his inner turmoil, but Ikithon seems to not even notice the heaviness of the air. Bren has to break it.

“I don’t understand I—They know the Empire is keeping us safe… How could they?”

That… that doesn’t seem like something his parents could think, could say, could do…

“Often, the enemy is closer than we think,” Ikithon says. “Traitors and revolutionaries often live inside the Empire they mooch off like leeches.”

“How could I be so blind? All my life I…”

“It is dreadful news, you must feel quite ashamed.” Ikithon leans over the table towards him, ever so slightly. “What do you plan to do about this?”

Bren feels the anger flare up.

“I will do what it takes to keep the Empire safe.”

Ikithon says nothing, but the beginning of a smirk makes its way to his lips. He leans back, calm as ever. 

“You seem tired. Sleep on it. Bring me Astrid as you get out.”

“Bren?” Astrid says. “ Are you alright?” 

He looks up.

Two silhouettes pounding on the window. 

-----

“A kitten!” 

“I found him hidden in the chicken pen,” his father says. “ His mother doesn’t seem to be around.” 

“Leofric, is it really—” 

“Can we keep him?”  Bren asks.

There’s a smug look on Leofric’s face as he turns to his wife. 

“You always worry Bren will grow up lonely without a brother or a sister. I think we can afford a cat, Una.” 

“Dad, you’re the best!” 

“I love you too, little bear.” 

“They’re inside…”  he mumbles.

“Yeah. That’s the point. Remember?”

-----

The muscles locked in place. 

The high-pitch whistle in the ears, overwhelming everything else. 

The cold, the void, the suffocation.

His parents’ screams. 

It starts as a whimper, a groan. It then bellows into a howl. 

A scream he can feel passing through in his own body.

A scream that will never leave him, that he will always hear when he closes his eyes.

He opens his mouth in a yowl without hearing himself.

“Pull yourself together!”  Eadwulf orders. “ Shit! You’re gonna wake up the whole Zemni Fields!”

“If Master Ikithon learns you got cold feet…” Astrid tries to hush him.

“We can’t let them burn! They’re… I…”

“Bren!”

“Don’t touch me!” 

“Bren! Stay!”

“Mom! Dad!”

“Bren, what are you doing!”

“Wulf, catch him! He’s gonna burn if he gets there!”

“Damn shit!” 

His mother’s very unsubtle ways of asking if anyone from the capital had caught his eye yet. The red of his ears when he tried, and failed, to convince her to drop it.

“Geh mir aus dem Weg, Wulf! Ich muss—!”

His parents laughing and kissing on the front porch after they thought Bren had gone to sleep, leaving their initials in the dust like teenagers.

“Verräter sind Verräter. Werd nicht weich.” 

“Bren, sei vernünftig—” 

“Ich sagte ‘fass mich nicht an! ’” 

The fear of the blade the first time he shaved. The steady hand of his father showing him the ropes. His mother’s peck on his cheek afterward.

“Ahh!”

“Astrid! Das war’s, du gehst nirgendwo hin, Kumpel.” 

A tall and dark shadow framed by reddish light. Fixed dark blue eyes, shining cold against the flames. Almost inhuman.

The fearful smile of his mother when his father managed to scare off a bear threatening to ravage their apple tree. 

Another loud thud. The house ablaze, looming, breathing out a splash of fireflies.

The joyful tear of his stoic father when Bren was accepted at the Soltryce Academy. 

The cracking sound of Wulf’s fists and shoulders.

“ Hide this necklace, don’t tell your mother,” Father says with a giddy smile, handing him a wooden beads and tiny quartz necklace he clearly made himself for her.

Astrid’s hissing behind him. The smell of burnt flesh.

The field and the work, the sweat on his weak back. The apple tart at the end of the day. 

The pounding on the door stops.

Magic tingling at the tip of his fingers. 

“Geh mir aus dem Weg! Ich muss—!” 

“Versuch es erst gar nicht, Bren.”

The world upside down. 

The taste of cold dirt smeared on his face. 

A human warmth and weight on his back. 

Wulf’s scars itching his neck.

The dark and thick smell of rose petals mingling with the smoke.

His eyelids grow heavy.

Nothingness.

Silence. 

The end of his life as he knew it.