This week, Jesse and I bring you a mix of newsy updates, a now-funny story about a freezer disaster, and intriguing tidbits that spark some lively discussions! We reflect on Jesse's recent 44th birthday, diving into how the world has changed since he was born at just 27 weeks. The advancements in technology are astounding!

We also explore the topic of re-using birthday candles, inspired by a recent Instagram post I share that invoked a plethora of comments and opinions. This light-hearted conversation spirals into a discussion about frugality and the limits some of us draw in our quest to save money. I invite you to write in with your own thoughts because I am curious: are there things that you would never do just to save a buck? I’ll share my own, and I would love to hear yours!

We also have some updates from our InsideTracker experience, including a tip about vitamin D for Jesse and how I'm upping my iron. I share my excitement about a highly-anticipated book I just picked up from the library - Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women. I also provide some updates on my thoughts on Hannah Brencher’s The Unplugged Hours, which I mentioned last episode. As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts an input after you listen!

In This Episode

[0:35] - It's time for a hodge-podge episode filled with all sorts of fun perspectives and stories.

[1:53] - Do you reuse birthday candles? A question inspired by a meme I shared on Instagram.

[3:57] - After having glued a birthday candle back together, I reflect on when frugality goes too far.

[6:13] - Are there people who enjoy spending money?

[9:24] - Jesse's premature birth story.

[11:29] - Jesse was in the NICU for a couple of months. We talk about how being premature impacted him for years to come.

[15:47] - A listener suggests that Jesse take vitamin K2 with vitamin D.

[17:42] - My favorite protocol for increasing iron.

[19:28] - Hear about how, excited about a tax refund, Jesse and I once bought meat from a local farm.

[22:46] - Our freezer stopped, resulting in spoiled meat upon our return from a trip!

[24:52] - We had to refreeze everything, which worsened the smell, and eventually gave the freezer away.

[26:29] - I recently got The Women by Kristin Hannah from the library and am excited to read it!

[27:49] - The Unplugged Hours by Hannah Brencher challenges readers to stay unplugged for 1,000 hours a year.

[29:44] - I often feel distracted by political news, and The Unplugged Hours has inspired me to limit my phone usage habits.

[32:37] - My goal includes unplugged time throughout the day.

Links & Resources

Crystal Paine

InsideTracker

Instagram Post About Birthday Candles

Instagram Post of Newborn Jesse

Instagram Reel with Hannah Brencher

Books

The Women: A Novel by Kristin Hannah

The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah Brencher

Social Media

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)

Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)

Crystal Paine on LinkedIn

Crystal Paine on Twitter

Crystal Paine on Goodreads

Money Saving Mom

Money Saving Mom on Facebook

Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group

[email protected]

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