I've spent quite a bit of time recently reflecting on the qualities of frugality and loveliness and contemplating how to reconcile the two within my home. On the one hand, I want to be frugal, to save for the future and give to the poor. But, on the other, I want my home to be a place of beauty, soothing to the souls of my family members and inviting to our friends.

I am by no means above frequenting the second-hand stores. You wouldn't believe the treasures I've unearthed! In fact, I must admit that I find shopping at thrift stores and vintage boutiques to be much more fun and inspiring than spending an afternoon at the mall.

Rating: 4.6/5

Father's Day is fast approaching and, if you're anything like me, the time to start planning is now. Many of us are pinching pennies these days so those annual trips to the Riviera that we so love and those fancy new electronic gadgets that so many of our husbands are strangely attracted to are out. No bother. With a little planning and a lot of love, you can show the men in your life (be it your husband, father or both) just how much you love and appreciate them. Here are a few things I've done in years past.

Rating: 4.5/5