Midwest Money Savers

How to Save Money Using Google: A Practical Guide

March 20, 2025March 20, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

How to Save Money Using Google: A Practical Guide

Google is more than just a search engine. It’s a powerhouse of tools and services that, when used wisely, can save you a significant amount of money. Whether shopping, traveling, running a business, or managing your daily expenses, Google has built-in features to help you cut costs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to leverage Google’s tools to save money on everything from groceries to flights to software subscriptions.

1. Use Google Shopping for Price Comparisons

One of the easiest ways to save money with Google is by using Google Shopping. Instead of browsing multiple websites for the best price, type the product name into Google and select the “Shopping” tab. Google will show prices from different retailers, including shipping costs and discounts.

Pro Tip:

Use the price tracking feature to receive alerts when prices drop.
Sort results by “Lowest price” to find the best deal quickly.

2. Set Price Alerts with Google Flights

If you’re planning a trip, Google Flights is a game-changer. Instead of checking airfare manually daily, use Google Flights’ price tracking feature. Enter your destination and travel dates, and Google will notify you when ticket prices go up or down.

Pro Tip:

Use the explore tool to find budget-friendly destinations.
Look for the cheapest travel days using Google Flights’ calendar view.

3. Find Coupons and Discounts with Google Search

Before making any purchase, do a quick Google search for discount codes or coupons. Just type “[store name] promo code” or “[product name] discount” into the search bar.

Pro Tip:

To avoid expired codes, use Google’s “Tools” filter to search for coupons posted within the last month.
Google also highlights automatic discounts when shopping through Chrome.

4. Use Google Opinion Rewards for Free Credits

Google Opinion Rewards is a free app that gives you Google Play credits for answering short surveys. You can use these credits to buy apps, movies, books, or even pay for YouTube Premium.

Pro Tip:

Enable location tracking to get more surveys and maximize rewards.

5. Save on Subscriptions with Google One

Many people pay for multiple cloud storage services unnecessarily. Switching to Google One can be more cost-effective if you’re using Dropbox or iCloud. It provides storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Photos at competitive prices.

Pro Tip:

Family Plan Sharing: Share your Google One subscription with up to five family members at no extra cost.

6. Use Google Sheets for Budgeting

Instead of paying for budgeting software, use Google Sheets. Many free budgeting templates can help you track your expenses, income, and savings goals.

Pro Tip:

Try the Google Sheets budget tracker template to automate calculations.
Use Google Finance functions to track stock investments in real time.

7. Leverage Google Maps for Cheaper Gas and Deals

Gas prices fluctuate daily, and Google Maps can help you find the cheapest gas stations near you. Search for “gas stations near me,” and Google will list prices alongside each location.

Pro Tip:

Enable Google Pay for loyalty rewards and discounts at participating stations.
Use Google Maps’ Explore tab for discounts at nearby restaurants and businesses.

8. Find Free Events and Activities with Google Events

Instead of paying for entertainment, use Google to find free local events. Type “free events near me” into Google to pull up a list of concerts, festivals, and workshops.

Pro Tip:

Use Google Calendar to set reminders for free events, so you don’t forget.

9. Avoid Subscription Overcharges with Google Play

Many people forget to cancel free trials and pay for services they don’t use. Google Play tracks subscriptions and makes it easy to cancel unused ones.

Pro Tip:

Open Google Play > Payments & Subscriptions to review and cancel unnecessary charges.

10. Use Google Books for Free eBooks

Instead of spending money on books, check Google Books first. Many classic and educational books are available for free.

Pro Tip:

Search “free eBooks” in Google Books to see a collection of available titles.

11. Get Cash Back with Google Pay

Google Pay often runs promotions that give you cashback on everyday purchases, from groceries to online shopping. Link your credit or debit card to Google Pay and check for available offers.

Pro Tip:

Check the Rewards tab in Google Pay for active cashback deals.

12. Use Google Lens to Find Cheaper Alternatives

Google Lens allows you to scan an item and find it online at a lower price. Just take a photo of a product, and Google will show you cheaper options.

Pro Tip:

Use Google Lens at retail stores to see if the product is available online for less.

13. Monitor Your Energy Usage with Google Nest

Google’s Nest Thermostat can help you reduce heating and cooling costs by automatically learning your habits and adjusting temperatures.

Pro Tip:

Many utility companies offer rebates for installing a Google Nest thermostat, so check for available discounts.

14. Use Google Alerts to Monitor Deals

Set up Google Alerts for specific products you want to buy. Google will notify you when there’s news about sales or discounts.

Pro Tip:

Create an alert for “best deals on [product name]” and check your email for updates.

15. Save on Communication with Google Voice and Meet

Instead of paying for extra phone services, use Google Voice for free calls and texts in the U.S. You can also use Google Meet for free video conferencing instead of Zoom or Skype Premium.

Pro Tip:

Link your Google Voice number to multiple devices for easier access.

Final Thoughts

Google isn’t just a tech giant—it’s a money-saving powerhouse when used wisely. Whether shopping smarter, tracking flights, or cutting unnecessary subscriptions, Google’s free tools and features can help you keep more money in your pocket.

Start applying these Google tricks today and watch your savings grow!

Money Saving Ideas, Uncategorized

Where to Read the Apocrypha: Top Online and Print Resources for Scripture Enthusiasts

January 27, 2025January 27, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Today’s post will discuss where to read the Apocrypha: Top Online and Print Resources for Scripture Enthusiasts. What is the Apocrypha, you ask? In simple terms, the Apocrypha is a collection of ancient religious writings in some versions of the Bible but not others. The term comes from a Greek word meaning “hidden” or “secret.” Here’s a simple breakdown:

Who includes it? The Apocrypha is part of the Bible in some Christian traditions, like the Catholic and Orthodox churches, but it is not included in most Protestant Bibles.
What is it? It contains books and additions to books written between the Old and New Testaments. Examples include Tobit, Judith, and 1 and 2 Maccabees.
Why the difference? Some groups consider these writings inspired by God, while others see them as helpful or historical but not part of the official “canon” (authoritative Scripture).

In short, the Apocrypha is a set of extra books that some Christians read as part of their Bible, while others don’t include them. Where can I read the Apocrypha? You can access the Apocrypha online through several reputable sources:

Online Resources

Bible Gateway
- Website: biblegateway.com Offers translations that include the Apocrypha, such as the NRSV with Apocrypha.
Sacred Texts Archive
- Website: sacred-texts.com contains free texts on the Apocrypha and other religious writings.
King James Bible Online
- Website: kingjamesbibleonline.org Provides the Apocrypha in the original King James Version format.
Early Christian Writings
- Website: earlychristianwritings.com Features texts and analysis of the Apocrypha and other historical Christian writings.
Bible.com (YouVersion)
- Website: bible.com. Its Bible app includes translations of the Apocrypha (search for versions like the NRSV).

Printed Versions

The new revised standard version (NRSV) with Apocrypha is widely available at bookstores and online retailers like Amazon.
Revised Standard Version (RSV) with Apocrypha. It includes Apocryphal books and is available in libraries and bookstores.
Orthodox Study Bible Contains Apocryphal books used in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.
The Septuagint (LXX): The Greek Old Testament, including apocryphal texts, is available in print and online.
The Jerusalem Bible Includes Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books used by Catholics.

If you’re interested in studying the texts in detail, look for annotated or study editions of these Bibles, which often include helpful commentary and context.

~Kelly

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Daily Bible Verse Ephesians 3:16 – 17

January 23, 2025January 23, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Daily Bible Verse from the Book of Ephesians:

Here is a summary of the Book of Ephesians: The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Ephesians, a letter to the church in Ephesus outlining key theological principles and practical guidance for Christian living. Ephesians is Divided into six chapters emphasizing believers’ unity in Christ and the gospel’s transformative power.

Theological Truths

The first half of the letter (chapters 1–3) focuses on theological truths. The apostle Paul begins by praising God for the spiritual blessings given to believers through Christ, including redemption, forgiveness, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. For instance, He highlights the mystery of God’s plan to unite Jews and Gentiles into one body through Jesus. Paul also prays for the church to grow in wisdom and understanding of God’s power and love.

Practical Application

The second half (chapters 4–6) transitions to practical application, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Paul emphasizes unity, love, and maturity within the body of Christ. He provides guidance on relationships, including instructions for husbands, wives, children, and servants, all rooted in mutual submission and love. Paul concludes with an exhortation to stand firm in faith, equipping themselves with the “armor of God” to resist spiritual opposition.

Ephesians encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, live in harmony with others, and rely on God’s strength to navigate life’s challenges, fostering a deeper relationship with Him. I sincerely hope you enjoy today’s post. Be sure to visit Mike Huckabee’s prayer tree below.

In conclusion, Mike Huckabee shares a Bible verse in his morning edition. The January 23 Morning Edition is below. This post is public, so feel free to share it.

Prayer Tree Daily Bible Verse Ephesians – January 23 by Mike Huckabee

Read on Substack

I hope you enjoyed this inspirational scripture as much as I do.

~Kelly

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Bible Verse of the Day

Credit Utilization Secrets: Why Keeping it Under 30 Percent Matters

January 15, 2025January 15, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

The Importance of Keeping Your Credit Utilization Under 30 Percent

Credit utilization is one of the most critical factors in managing your financial health. Yet, many overlook the significance of managing credit card debt and how it shapes their credit score. In this article, you’ll learn the importance of these credit utilization secrets. We’ll dive into why maintaining a credit utilization ratio below 30 percent is essential and how it can positively impact your financial future.

What Is Credit Utilization?

Credit utilization refers to the percentage of your available credit that you are currently using. For example, if you have a total credit limit of $10,000 and your balances total $3,000, your credit utilization rate is 30 percent. This ratio is a significant component of your credit score, accounting for about 30 percent of the overall calculation. This credit utilization secret is one of the most important ones you will learn. Not sure where your utilization is at? One of my favorite financial tools to use is CrediteroScore. With CreditHeroScore, you get monthly credit scores & alerts, credit tools, and top-of-the-line ID protection. Visit CreditHeroScore now to check out everything you get. For a limited time, they offer a 7-Day $1.00 Trial, and then a monthly membership fee of $24.99 (plus applicable tax) will apply. 1

Why it Matters

Improves Your Credit Score:
Lenders view low credit utilization as a sign of financial responsibility. A ratio under 30 percent demonstrates that you’re not overly reliant on borrowed money, which makes you a lower risk to creditors. Conversely, high utilization can lead to a drop in your credit score, even if you make timely payments.
Signals Financial Stability:
Keeping utilization low shows that you have control over your spending and are not living beyond your means. This can make securing loans, credit cards, or favorable mortgage terms easier.
Maintains Financial Flexibility:
Low credit utilization ensures you have room to handle unexpected expenses or emergencies without maxing out your credit cards. High balances leave little room for unforeseen costs, leading to financial stress.

How High Credit Utilization Can Hurt You

Exceeding the 30 percent threshold can have several adverse effects. High utilization ratios may indicate financial strain to lenders, even if you make minimum payments on time. This perception can result in higher interest rates, difficulty securing credit, and even rejection of loans or credit cards. Your credit score may also take a hit, which could take months to recover.

Tips for Maintaining a Low Credit Utilization Rate

Regularly Monitor Your Balances:
Keep track of your credit card balances and ensure they stay below 30 percent of your credit limit. For more information, check out my article, Unlock Financial Freedom: Mastering the 50/30/20 Budgeting Rule.
Pay Off Balances Promptly:
Making payments more than once during a billing cycle can help reduce your utilization before your statement is issued.
Request a Credit Limit Increase:
Increasing your credit limit lowers your utilization rate as long as your spending habits remain unchanged.
Spread Spending Across Cards:
If you have multiple credit cards, distribute purchases evenly to avoid high balances on any account.
Avoid New Debt:
Limit new credit applications and focus on managing your existing accounts wisely.

Conclusion

Maintaining a credit utilization ratio under 30 percent is a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your credit score and financial health. Showing lenders that you can manage credit responsibly opens doors to better financial opportunities and reduced stress. Start implementing these strategies today and build a solid foundation for a secure financial future.

This post may contain affiliate links. These affiliate links help support this site. For more information, please see my disclosure policy. Thank you for supporting Midwest Money Savers.

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Free Month of Grammarly Premium!

January 14, 2025January 14, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Hey guys, click here to snag your free month of Grammarly Premium! I love Grammarly and only have a few invites to share. Try it for a month and see how it can improve your writing. You better hurry, though; this is only available to my first 10 friends who respond to this limited-time offer. When my invites are gone, they are gone.

Why Grammarly is a Must-Have Tool

Grammarly offers many benefits for writers of all levels, from students to seasoned professionals. As an AI-powered writing assistant, it provides features that improve writing quality, offer advanced assistance, support learning, and enhance convenience, all while saving time and boosting productivity. Here’s a closer look at what your free trial of Grammarly Premium brings to the table:

Improved Writing Quality

Grammarly significantly enhances the overall quality of your writing in the following ways:

Correcting Grammar and Spelling Errors
Think of Grammarly as your vigilant virtual editor, identifying and rectifying grammar and spelling mistakes that go unnoticed by basic spell-checkers. I know this feature has helped my writing.

Enhancing Clarity and Readability
The tool suggests alternative word choices and restructures sentences to ensure your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Improving Sentence Structure
Grammarly analyzes your text and provides suggestions to improve sentence flow, creating seamless and engaging content.

A Tool for Both Now and the Future

Grammarly’s comprehensive features improve individual writing pieces and contribute to the long-term development of writing skills.
Whether you’re a student crafting essays, a professional preparing reports, or a creative writer polishing your prose, Grammarly is an
indispensable companion on your writing journey. Sound great? You can take advantage of Grammarly Premium’s free month here.

Remember, the offer is valid for my first ten friends. I urge you not to miss the opportunity to get your free month of Grammarly Premium.
Please share and comment if you found this post helpful.

~Kelly

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Des Plaines Council Meeting January 2025 Updates

January 3, 2025 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Des Plaines City Council Meeting Updates:

City of Des Plaines January 2025 City Council Meeting Updates and Office Closures: The meeting scheduled for January 6, 2025, has been canceled. City offices will be closed on Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King Day. The council will meet on Tuesday, January 21, at 7 p.m.

For more details, visit the City’s website and watch the livestream.

Upcoming Des Plaines Council Meetings and Reminders

1/6: Public Works Holiday Tree Collection Begins (weather permitting).

Attention Des Plaines residents! It’s time to bid farewell to your holiday trees. The Public Works and Engineering Department will collect Christmas trees throughout the city from Monday, January 6, 2025, through Friday, January 10, 2025, weather permitting. To ensure smooth collection, please remove all decorations, lights, tinsel, and plastic bags from your tree before placing them at the curbside.

1/6: Council Meeting CANCELED
1/7: Planning and Zoning Board Workshop 6:30 p.m.
1/17: Last day of LRS Holiday Tree collection
1/20: Martin Luther King Day. City offices closed.
1/21: Council Meeting 7 p.m. (Tuesday Meeting)

Visit desplainesil.gov and check out their calendar to see what’s happening around town.

City of Des Plaines
1420 Minor Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone 847-391-5300

~Kelly

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Goat Cheese Cheddar Au Gratin Potatoes Recipe

May 29, 2024May 29, 2024 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Today, we’re sharing a special treat—a brand-new recipe straight from my kitchen to yours! Prepare to delight your taste buds with our delicious potato side dish, goat cheese cheddar au gratin potatoes, a perfect blend of rich cheddar cheese and tangy goat cheese with potatoes. Whether planning a satisfying lunch or a delectable dinner accompaniment, this potato dish will become a favorite. Let’s dive in and make today delicious!”

Goat Cheese Cheddar Au Gratin Potatoes

This rich and creamy au gratin potato dish combines the tangy flavor of goat cheese with the sharpness of cheddar for a delicious twist on classic comfort food.

Ingredients:

Four large russet potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
One medium onion, thinly sliced
Two cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick). Place them in a large bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cook the Onion and Garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, melt one tablespoon of the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining one tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (roux) and starts to turn a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the goat and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth—season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Assemble the Dish:
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a paper towel—layer half of the potato slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked onions and garlic over the potatoes.
- Pour half the cheese sauce over the first layer of potatoes and onions. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, onions, and cheese sauce.
Top and Bake:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Garnish and Serve:
- Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Goat Cheese Cheddar Au Gratin Potatoes as a perfect side dish for any meal!

Enjoy!

Kelly

Recipes

Active-Duty Military and Veterans: Free Admission to The International Gem & Jewelry Show Rosemont, Illinois

May 6, 2024 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

The International Gem & Jewelry Show offers free admission to all active-duty military and veterans with current military identification (offer includes immediate family). Rosemont, Illinois May 10 – 12, 2024 https://t.co/N5KScGqxRp

— Kelly Gilbert (@KellyGi47078065) May 6, 2024

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Chef John’s Mushroom Veggie Burgers via Food Wishes Video Recipes

April 11, 2024April 11, 2024 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

You all know I’m all about saving money, but I’m also about flavor. This little gem magically appeared in my inbox today via The Allrecipes Daily Dish email newsletter. I must admit that I’ve struggled to find delicious and economical veggie burger options. I’m sorry, but $16.00 for a multipack of a name I will not mention veggie burgers is getting totally out of hand, not to mention all the added chemicals I could do without.

Mushrooms can be costly, so Chef John recommends buying them when they are priced at B1G1 free. I get them at Jerry’s Fruit & Garden in Niles or Sam’s Club.

At the time of this posting, a 24 oz container of white mushrooms was $4.12. Here is the direct link for Chef John’s Mushroom Veggie Burger. Please leave a comment and let me know if you enjoyed the recipe!

This post appeared first at Food Wishes Video Recipes with Chef John.

PS Scroll past the first video to view this recipe.

Enjoy!

Kelly

Recipes, Vegetarian

Morning Bible Scripture: Proverbs 3:24-26

April 10, 2024April 11, 2024 Kelly Gilbert No Comments

Good Morning, everyone! I get up an hour or two earlier than my family to plan my day every morning. I always start the day by reading a bit of scripture. This morning, I want to share a passage from the Book of Proverbs. I hope that it brings you peace as it does for me.

Proverbs 3:24-26

24 You can go to bed without fear;
you will lie down and sleep soundly.
²⁵You need not be afraid of sudden disaster
or the destruction that comes upon the wicked,
²⁶for the Lord is your security.
He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap.

Read the whole chapter here.

Have a blessed day,

~Kelly

Bible Verse of the Day, God