Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. She frequently writes for a handful of blogs and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn't typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, son, husband, and dog. During her free time, you're likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.
Between inflation, tariffs, and supply chain troubles, everyday prices are stubbornly high—and many of us are still shelling out more than we should. With costs biting into budgets, it’s essential to identify where overspending lingers. Being aware helps you snag better deals, redirect funds to priorities, and ease financial pressure. From groceries to gadgets, knowing…
We all know the convenience of ordering pizza late at night, but the price tag and wait times can put a damper on that craving. That’s where Aldi’s frozen pizzas shine—delicious, budget-friendly, and ready whenever hunger strikes. With many options under $9, these pies offer big flavor without draining your wallet. Whether it’s cheesy indulgence…
Take a bite back into your childhood: from quirky cereals to discontinued snacks, some foods defined entire lunchboxes and after-school cravings. If you grew up before 2000, you might still remember debating whether Smurf‑Berry Crunch or Oreo O’s was worth the sugar rush, or nudging your parents for Lunchables instead of homemade sandwiches. These nostalgic…
From backyard barbecues to fast-food stops, burgers are a national obsession—and for good reason. Whether you’re grilling for friends or grabbing a quick bite, knowing what makes a burger truly stand out can take your game from good to unforgettable. Americans have strong opinions, and recent surveys reveal what we value most when hunger hits.…
We all have our go-to meals that hit both comfort and crave-worthy notes—but not all dishes stay in our hearts forever. Food trends rise and fall, and what was once the talk of the dinner table can eventually fade. Knowing what’s currently beloved—and what’s become passé—helps us stay ahead whether we’re planning family dinners or…
Bulk stores like Costco and Sam’s Club promise big savings—think mega-sized packs at lower unit prices. But in North Dakota, with its sparse population, limited store access, and unique shopping habits, the real value of bulk shopping deserves a closer look. Whether you’re in Fargo, Williston, or Minot, understanding if bulk shopping truly fits your…
Freezing food is a go-to method for extending shelf life—but not every item survives the cold unscathed. Some foods lose texture, separate, or explode when frozen, costing you money and ruining your meal plans. Knowing which foods to avoid freezing can save you frustration and potential food waste. From soggy veggies to cracked eggs, here’s…
You might think kids’ meals are just for kids—but a growing number of adults beg to differ. A recent survey reveals nearly half of U.S. adults are ordering from restaurant kids’ menus, and the reasons go beyond just nostalgia. From simpler choices to smaller portions and wallet-friendly prices, adults are finding smart, surprising benefits in…
Using the refrigerator door for quick-grab items seems like a smart space-saver—but it might be doing more harm than good. What many don’t realize is that the door experiences frequent temperature swings every time it opens, making it a risky spot for certain foods. Putting perishables in the door can shorten their shelf life, lead…
Most people assume coupons are valid nationwide, but some deals come with surprising regional restrictions. In New England, a handful of offers are only redeemable in certain states, leaving shoppers scratching their heads. Whether it’s due to distribution agreements, store policies, or state laws, these coupons can save you money—but only if you live in…
Have you noticed more shoppers reaching for store labels instead of splurging on name brands? In Kansas, economic pressures and rising prices have driven a major shift toward off-brand groceries that often outperform familiar shelf leaders. These hidden gems deliver comparable quality, serious savings, and local appeal—sometimes even outselling big names. Ready to discover nine…
Rising grocery prices are pinching wallets across the country, and Missouri is no exception. But instead of cutting corners on nutrition or launching complaints, Missourians are getting downright creative with how they stretch their food budgets. From backyard produce to strategic shopping, these smart strategies are helping families keep meals both affordable and healthy. Want…
If you’ve ever found yourself chasing the McRib like it’s a fleeting legend, you’re not alone—and there’s a smart reason behind that rush. The truth isn’t just that the McRib vanishes because it’s unpopular—in fact, it’s all part of a deliberate strategy. By making the sandwich rare, McDonald’s builds hype, drives traffic, and keeps fans…
We all have that one iconic snack or drink that’s totally normal in the U.S.—but baffling to the rest of the world. Whether it’s all the sugar, strange ingredients, or just cultural differences, certain American food hits can leave others scratching their heads. Understanding what makes these familiar favorites so odd abroad can spark fun…
Ever noticed extra charges at the grocery checkout that make no sense? Turns out, even in grocery stores, some everyday items are taxed as “luxury” or non-essential—not because they’re extravagant, but because state laws still classify them that way. Knowing what gets taxed—and where—can help you shop smarter and potentially save at the register. Here…
Let’s face it—talking about colon cancer doesn’t always sound fun, but a fresh study just gave us a powerful way to fight back, and it’s as simple as eating your veggies. New research reveals that certain vegetables—especially cruciferous ones—can significantly lower colon cancer risk, and even small daily servings count. That means your grocery cart…