DO: SPEND LESS CHALLENGE series - Save $$ on Starbucks!

The SPEND LESS CHALLENGE:
Ok, aren't we all tightening up our budgets? The economy is not getting any better for us common folk so, we are working on lowering our expenses in every area in our home. I would like to share our findings with you as we go through this process. We are making it like a game in our house...how much can we save...so we can share more?? 


If you are feeling the financial pinch (and who isn't?) you can either - MAKE MORE MONEY or SPEND LESS. Since I don't have the time or the energy for another job...I guess I am in the "spend less" department. Why don't you join us on our "SPEND LESS CHALLENGE"?? We promise to make it fun!


Here is a little money saver that we have been practicing for a few years now, I hope this helps you!

That little green circle is such a beautiful sight sometimes!! :) sigh....

"STAY OUT OF STARBUCKS!"... that's my lovely husbands' advice when we try to "cut back". Well, that doesn't really work for me, since I love a latte!! :) You can't just expect me to totally go without, right?? So, instead of buying at Starbucks - we began making our own at home. It's super easy, more convenient and so much CHEAPER. Here's my tricks:


The beans - this is a personal preference thing, so you will want to find your own. I love Starbucks Christmas Blend. So, I have them grind it expresso grind (that way you don't need to buy a bean grinder) - then stock up in the freezer. Keep your ground beans in the freezer. I put a small portion in a small container and take out each day to put into the espresso machine. You don't want your beans coming in contact with air...so do it quick.


The espresso machine - this was a gift from my stepmom - she saved for quite a while, collected coupons (she's my idol!) and finally purchased this machine. Then, my dad hated the coffee - so they gave it to us. If she reads this article, I know she will want it back.


The syrup - This is the best buy at Starbucks - you can purchase the large bottle of syrup   they use behind the counter. They will sometimes give you the pump if you ask. They are about $6.50 for the entire bottle. For us, it lasts about 1 month, but we really like our coffee!! (I purchase the sugar-free Cinnamon Dolche, which is also what Starbucks puts into their Carmel Apple Cider, yumo!) My husband likes the full-sugar Toffee Nut. :)


The milk - I use skim milk for mine - that means only 100 calories for my morning coffee. (and no caffeine either, because we are "de-caf" at our house!) I just heat my milk on the stove and use a cheap little "frother"...much easier than using the steam function on your espresso machine.

haha - this just made me laugh

Cost savings:
Cost of grande Toffee Nut Latte at Starbucks - $3.26
Cost of grande Toffee Nut Latte at the Stone home - $.51 per coffee

• Milk - $.12 (1 cup of milk) - 1 gallon of milk at Sam's Club for $1.89
• Coffee - $.17 (1 TBS of coffee ground per espresso shot)
• Syrup - $.22 (6.50 divided by 30 days of use)

If you just drink one coffee, per day, at home instead of purchasing at Starbucks....
PER PERSON SAVINGS:
Cost savings per day: $2.75
Cost savings per week: $19.25
Cost savings per month: $82.50
Cost savings per year: $1003.75!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


It's a fun treat for yourself, guests love a homemade latte, and it is also a great way to wake your hubby up each morning. (mine is sooo spoiled!! :) Check back soon for some more "Spend Less Challenge" posts! 
Kristen