I love cookies [who doesn’t?] and fall is my favorite time of year so, naturally, like any self-respecting autumn fan, I love all the pumpkin things. You lovely readers have also endured enjoyed my many rantings of how I am not into that kitchen life. Well, buttercup, if you are like me, you are going to love these No Bake Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. If I can enjoy a lovely, taste of the season, without a ton of work or mess, I am all about it.

No Bake Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 4 cups quick oats
• 1 stick butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. In a saucepan, add the pumpkin, peanut butter, milk, butter, brown & granulated sugars.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring. 
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
4. Add vanilla and let simmer for 3-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. While the pumpkin mixture is simmering, in a separate bowl, add cinnamon, salt & pumpkin spice to the oats. 
6. Slowly pour the pumpkin mixture into the oats, mixing well. 
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Shape mixture into 2 inch sized cookies.
9. Let cookies fully cool before serving. 

Do you like making no bake cookies? As a child, I remember everyone calling them “Preacher Cookies.” Have you heard this? If so, which do you call them? Have you tried this pumpkin variety? Did you add or subtract any ingredients? If so, let me know what you think in the comments or on social media!

The post No Bake Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

We have written extensively on this blog about 2 of our favorite leaf-peeping destinations: The Blue Ridge Parkway and Gatlinburg. Today, we are bringing you 5 more fantastic places to see the most beautiful of what fall has to offer. So, if you are feeling like a road trip [or two], we have the perfect destinations in mind. Grab your pumpkin spice latte or your hot apple cider, your coziest sweater and your favorite car tunes and lets check out the fall colors together!

5 of the Best Leaf-Peeping Destinations in the U.S.

Mid-September to Mid-October

Cooperstown, New York and The Otesaga Resort Hotel – The village of Cooperstown is tucked in the foothills of the Northern Catskill Mountains of New York, and it takes the top spot for earliest views of fall foliage in our roundup. The ideal home base for a visit to Cooperstown – which is nicknamed “America’s Most Perfect Village” – is The Otesaga Resort Hotel. Situated on the southern shore of Otsego Lake, the hotel offers unmatched views of the water and surrounding hills. Leaf-peeping from the famed Veranda is a must, but resort guests can also enjoy such favorite activities as a round of golf at the award-winning Leatherstocking Golf Course or a photography tour of the property. Instead of driving around Cooperstown, guests can rent the hotel’s bikes and peddle around the village to take in the scenery. Favorite cultural stops in town include The Farmers’ Museum, The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, and Fenimore Art Museum.

In Cooperstown, here’s a sampling of tree species paired with expected color transformation: Ash (bright yellow), Pin Oak (russet-red to bright crimson), Red Maple (red color that transitions from yellow to orange), Shag Bark Hickory (rich yellows to golden browns), Sugar Maple (yellow to red), White Oak (brick red to scarlet color) and Willow (bright green to yellow).

Fun Fact: The maple trees in this region boast beautiful leaves AND their wood is ideal for making baseball bats!

Early October

Allegany County, “The Mountain Side of Maryland” – Mother Nature is the star of the show on the Mountain Side of Maryland. With nearly 70,000 acres of public land in Allegany County, the ways in which leaf-peepers can experience the great outdoors on the mountainside are limitless. Located in the “ridge and valley” region of the oldest mountain range in the U.S. – the Appalachian Mountains – Allegany County is a great destination for hiking and biking. Local outfitter WheezUp Adventures offers “The Big Deal” ride, which traverses the picturesque landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP). Along the carefully curated 25-mile downhill route, cyclists will see lush vistas, charming towns and historic landmarks. More fantastic views of fall foliage await visitors on a self-guided driving tour of Green Ridge State Forest. In addition to outdoor recreation opportunities, Rocky Gap State Park [which is celebrating its 50^th anniversary this year] offers plenty of options for overnight guests, including a stay at Rocky Gap Casino, Resort & Golf.

In Allegany County, here’s a sampling of tree species paired with expected color transformation: Leaf-peepers can see more than 100 common tree varieties and a rainbow of changing colors in the fall, including American/European Large (yellow), Sassafras (orange/yellow), Scarlet Oak (vibrant red), Speckled Alder (yellow/brown) and Yellow Birch (yellow).

Early to Mid-October

Shenandoah County – Shenandoah County, Virginia, is a haven for foodies, art lovers, outdoor enthusiasts … and leaf-peepers. With more than 26% of the county covered in National and State Forest and 178 miles of trails ready to be explored, it’s hard to feature just a few experiences. (In fact, it’s so difficult, we’re dedicating another fall-themed release to Shenandoah County in the coming weeks.) A few of the best spots for viewing fall foliage in the destination include Buzzard Rock and Big Schloss. Located east of Fort Valley, Buzzard Rock is a relatively easy four-mile hike with spectacular vistas from the namesake rock. Big Schloss often tops the destination’s list of best hikes in the Shenandoah Valley for its unique vantage point of the Valley from rock outcrops along the Virginia/West Virginia border. A guided horseback ride through the George Washington National Forest is also a favorite way to take in the trails and fall leaves. A unique lodging option here that also provides spectacular views of fall foliage is Bear Lodge, located in Basye.

In Shenandoah County, here’s a sampling of tree species paired with expected color transformation: Birch (yellow), Black Gum (yellow to orange and red), Norway Maple (yellow), Red Maple (red), Red Oak (red to scarlet red), Sugar Maple (orange) and White Oak (yellow to brown).

Mid to Late October

Bowling Green, Kentucky – Bowling Green is well known as the home to Corvette, but Kentucky’s third-largest city is also gearing up for fantastic fall experiences. Within Baker Arboretum, spectators can enjoy 115 acres of native Kentucky foliage, including several from the Threatened Species list. Visitors to the destination can also enjoy a stop at local favorite Chaney’s Dairy Barn to enjoy the iconic six-acre corn maze, which has been a staple in the community for more than 20 years. Mammoth Cave National Park, which boasts the world’s longest cave system, also features brilliant fall foliage across more than 400 acres. Overnight guests of Mammoth Cave Lodge can marvel at the leaves and colors from the front door of their comfortable and rustic accommodations.

In Bowling Green, here’s a sampling of tree species paired with expected color transformation: Conifer (older interior needles turn yellow, while needles further out in the canopy and tips of branches remain vivid green), Japanese Maple (green to scarlet red) and Eastern Native (native to Kentucky and turns from bright green to bright yellow).

Mid to Late October

Branson, Missouri – Well known as an entertainment destination, Branson, Missouri, also offers plenty of adventure and family fun when it comes to seasonal experiences … and fall is no exception. Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City features thousands of illuminated pumpkins, visiting craftsmen from across the nation, a Cowboy Emporium, rides operating into the night and incredible food. This year’s Harvest Festival runs from September 13 through October 26. For an aerial view of the destination, Branson Helicopter Tours offers fall foliage tours over Branson and the surrounding Ozarks. Home to 10,000 acres of rugged Ozarks landscape for walking, biking, horseback riding and tram tours, a visit to nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about conservation through up-close interactions with nature. A stay at Branson’s newest boutique hotel, The Ozarker Lodge, allows guests to venture out into the natural beauty of the destination during their stay. The Lodge’s “Sip & Savor Fall” package includes 10% off stays during select days and a complimentary s’mores kit for use at the property’s firepits.

In Branson, here’s a sampling of tree species paired with expected color transformation: American Hornbeam (ranges from yellow to orange to red), Blackhaw Viburnum (showy foliage turns shades of red and purple), Dogwood (deep red), Eastern Wahoo (bright red) and Sassafras (gold, copper, orange, peach and burgundy).

The post 5 Of The Best Leaf-Peeping Destinations In The US: Where And When To See Fall Colors first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

When the air starts to cool and the fall colors hit, it’s the perfect time to get out of the house and explore. We have rounded up 7 of the South’s best fall events to give you plenty of fun-filled events to choose from. Autumn is when so many destinations host incredible festivals and events that bring together people and cultures [and, of course, lots and lots of pumpkins]. Let us know which of these events you are most interested in attending and feel free to add your fun events in the comments or on our posts on social media. Let’s all have a wonderful autumn!

7 Of The South’s Best Fall Events

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – September 9 through October 28 – As the leaves change to their autumnal glory in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood transforms its theme park into a celebration of fall during its Harvest Festival. At this time of year, Dollywood features colossal pumpkins that weigh 800 to 1,500 pounds; Dolly-inspired sights like a larger-than-life guitar (made of pumpkins!) that plays “Tennessee Mountain Home” and a tree where Dolly’s voice narrates the changing of the seasons in the Smokies; live musical performances including Southern gospel, bluegrass and country tunes; more than 50 world-class rides and attractions; and delicious fall-themed treats featuring pumpkin and apple flavors. At night the park transforms into “Great Pumpkin LumiNights,” and guests can view more than 12,000 illuminated pumpkins that have been carved into whimsical creatures. Stay at one of Dollywood’s two resorts for even more fall fun, including crafts, music and fireside treats.

Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City

Branson, Missouri – September 13 through October 26 – Well known as an entertainment destination, Branson offers plenty of adventure and family fun when it comes to seasonal experiences … and fall is no exception. Tucked in the Ozark Mountains of Missouri, it’s no surprise that Silver Dollar City – a theme park created by a family – is designed with families in mind. Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City is a larger-than-life “no-scare” seasonal highlight that offers days filled with fun and nights filled with … Pumpkins in the City! At this time of year, the park features thousands of illuminated pumpkins, towering carved masterpieces, all-ages dance parties in Pumpkin Plaza, visiting craftsmen from across the nation, a Cowboy Emporium, special entertainment, rides operating into the night, and incredible food.

Mount Jackson Tater Fest

Shenandoah County, Virginia – September 28 – Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, the town of Mount Jackson is promising an unforgettable experience at its inaugural Mount Jackson Tater Fest this year. Forget coming for the region’s famous foliage and instead come for a free culinary event centered around the humble potato. (September is National Potato Month.) From French fry eating and tater salad making contests to a couch potato 5k and the Miss Sweet Potato/Mr. Spud Muffin pageants, Tater Fest promises something fun for people of every age and potato palate. Route 11 Potato Chips, which is headquartered here (along Route 11, natch), will have a special booth at the festival and Tater Fest-branded chip bags just for the event. Though Route 11, which is found on store shelves and in picnic baskets throughout the Mid-Atlantic and South, usually only makes chips during the week, visitors can still visit on this particular Saturday to peek in through the viewing windows, ask questions, sample a variety of flavors and stock up on bags of every size.

International Festival

Bowling Green, Kentucky – September 28 – Bowling Green is Kentucky’s third-largest city, and it’s considered a diversity epicenter in large part because it’s home to the state’s refugee resettlement center. Because of this, a wide range of cultures is represented in the city, especially within the small business community. Those cultures come together every fall for the International Festival, a cultural extravaganza that draws attendees from near and far. Festival-goers wander through bustling streets adorned with colorful flags and vibrant stalls offering authentic dishes from all around the world. More than 40 food vendors specializing in international cuisine serve their specialties, presenting international menus that incorporate locally-sourced ingredients. Attendees can grab a bite to eat while enjoying dynamic performances showcasing music, dance, and artistic expressions from a variety of cultures.

Wooden Boat Festival

Madisonville, Louisiana – October 19-20 – The waterfront town of Madisonville, known for its rich maritime history, will host the 33^rd Wooden Boat Festival featuring more than 100 classic boats. During the family-friendly, two-day event, festival-goers can view beautifully crafted wooden boats, cruisers, luggers, sailboats, skiffs and trawlers along the banks of the Tchefuncte River. Beyond marveling at vintage vessels, more than 30,000 attendees enjoy arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, delicious food, games, an obstacle course, remotely operated vehicle demonstrations, and maritime science experiments. The highlight of the festival is the Quick ‘n Dirty Boat Building Contest, in which participants build and pilot their own boat that competes in a 100-yard course to see which stays afloat. Event tickets include free access to the Maritime Museum Louisiana.

40^th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival

Alabama’s Beaches – November 7-17 – The Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival brings together nearly 200 of the unsung heroes of the music business from all over the world for a 10-day festival. Celebrating its 40^th anniversary this year, the event takes place at venues along the Alabama-Florida state line. Attendees can enjoy close-up and personal concert experiences (most of which are free!) while learning the stories behind many award-winning songs. The festival is named for Frank Brown, the former night watchman at the famed Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar, a great American roadhouse that straddles the state line. Songwriters play at the Flora-Bama, where it all began, and in approximately two dozen other locations across the beach communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key and Pensacola, Florida.

Big Boy’s Main Street Cook Off and Thibodeauxville Fall Festival

Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou – November 8-9 – Two of the biggest fall events in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou occur on the same weekend, which means that visitors get double the fall, double the fun, and double the food! Here in Louisiana, where there aren’t as many colorful fall leaves, they lean into their vibrant flavors instead. Indulge in mouthwatering Cajun cuisine prepared by more than two dozen chef-led teams that work to showcase the area’s culinary heritage at the Big Boy’s Main Street Cook Off. From savory gumbo (“sweater weather” in other parts of the country constitutes “gumbo weather” here on the bayou) to spicy jambalaya, there’s something to satisfy every sampler. Just as stomachs start to growl again, a new day brings the Thibodeauxville Fall Festival. Averaging more than 15,000 visitors each year, this free and award-winning event has been held annually since 1992. People come from far and wide to enjoy good Cajun food, art vendors, a car show and … ducks? Yep … the festival is best known for its duck race! Hundreds of rubber duckies bob their way down Bayou Lafourche, and the owner of the winning quacker gets a monetary prize.

The post 7 Of The South’s Best Fall Events first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

A delightful and spooky Halloween treat, Kid-Friendly Peeps S’mores combine classic s’mores with Halloween-themed marshmallow peeps. These easy-to-make kid-friendly snacks are perfect for children, as they do not involve a campfire like their traditional counterparts. This Halloween Peeps S’mores recipe offers a fun twist on traditional s’mores with a festive and colorful flair that’s sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering.

Kid-Friendly Halloween Peeps S’mores

Ingredients 

• Halloween Peeps [I generally buy mine at one of the dollar stores]
• Graham Crackers
• Chocolate [use whichever kind you like best. I like to switch up brands and flavors]

Directions

1. Lay out the graham crackers. 
2. Top each graham cracker with a piece of chocolate & Halloween Peep.
3. Heat in the microwave in 5 second intervals until desired meltiness is reached.
4. Place another graham cracker square on top to create a sandwich.
5. Enjoy! 

I love traditional s’mores with chocolate, but I also enjoy changing things up a bit. Some of my favorite varieties of chocolates to add to this recipe include salted caramel and also anything with chocolate and peanut butter. Though I haven’t tried it myself, mint chocolate might be a lovely, festive addition around Christmas. Play around and see what you like. You could even set up a little S’mores Bar with a variety of chocolates and marshmallows to choose from. What fun with it!

The post Kid-Friendly Halloween Peeps S’mores Recipe first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

Is it just me complaining, or has this summer been particularly hot? I feel like every time that I go to an outdoor event, the temperature is in the 90s, at least, if not 100. But, we’ve lived so far and the sweet release of fall will soon be here. Until then, we can enjoy all the refreshing iced beverages and cold desserts and hide in the house in the AC! Who’s with me? I really love cold, sweet treats during the summer, and this Watergate Salad recipe is one of my faves. I have heard that there are several varieties to this classic dessert. How do you make yours? I would love to see in the comments or on social media.

Refreshing Summer Delight: Watergate Salad

Ingredients 

• 3.4 oz pistachio Jell-O instant pudding mix
• 20 oz can crushed pineapple
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (your favorite)
• 8 oz container Cool Whip
• Cherries (for garnish)

1. Place pudding mix, pineapple, marshmallows & nuts into a large mixing bowl. 
2. Mix well.
3. Fold in the cool whip and mix.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl.
5. Top with a cherry & enjoy! 

Have you tried Watergate Salad? Some people have told me that they are thrown off by the pistachio pudding, but I think that it gives this dessert a nice, unusual flavor, when you compare it to all of the other recipes that contain the typical vanilla and chocolate puddings. What are your thoughts? Do you agree or disagree? I also sometimes make an orange lush type of dessert that is similar in preparation to this one. Perhaps I will post that recipe soon if any of you are interested. What is your favorite cool, summer treat? If you have a great, tried and tested dessert that you swear by, I would love to try it!

The post Refreshing Summer Delight: Watergate Salad Recipe first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

I won’t lie to you, I never watch games for the game. I go for the food. If you have a football, basketball, racing or whatever party, count me in if the food is right. Game days are great days to indulge in tasty appetizers that you might not typically indulge in. But, as you all well know who have been around my blog for a while, I am not about hanging out and cooking in the kitchen all day. The Pioneer Wife, I am not. If you are my kindred spirit, then this recipe, Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip, is for you.

Easy 3 Ingredient Chili Cheese Dip

Ingredients 

• 8oz Cream Cheese
• 8oz Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1 Can Of Your Favorite Brand Of Chili

Directions

1. Pre-Heat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine cream cheese, chili & half of the Cheddar Cheese together.
3. Pour into a baking dish.
4. Sprinkle with the remaining Cheddar Cheese.
5. Place in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until bubbly
6. Dip your favorite tortilla chips and enjoy!

What is your favorite game day food? We often make this Slow Cooker Chili recipe ours that was actually featured in a cookbook by Brian Baumgartner from “The Office.” Can you believe that? The least Martha Stewart-y person you will ever meet actually makes something tasty enough to be in a cookbook. Just like Kevin would say, “Well, well, well…” Not feeling the whole chili vibe? Perhaps you would enjoy this Pepperoni Party Ring! Have you tried any of these recipes? If so, feel free to leave us a comment below or on social! Enjoy!

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We have a really great BBQ restaurant in our town called Little Richard’s. I love going there and when I have leftovers I know precisely the best way to use them: this Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s really simple to make and doesn’t take all that long to put together either. These are the kinds of recipes that I love. Let’s face it, we all have to cook, but not all of us enjoy it. I am one of those people. I will never be Betty Crocker, hanging out in the kitchen all day, whipping up endless deliciousness. But, like most people, I do love good food. That is why the majority of the recipes that you see on this site are quick, easy and simple – for the non-domestic goddesses out there like myself. I got you.

Pulled Pork Mac And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients 

• Left Over Pulled Pork [You can make your own or use store bought, whatever is your preference]
• 2 1/2 Cups Cooked Elbow Macaroni 
• 2 Cups Cheddar Cheese
• 2 Cups Colby Jack Cheese
• 2 Cups Milk
• 4 Tbs Butter
• 1 Tsp Salt
• 1 Tsp Pepper
• 1 Tbs Flour
• Your favorite BBQ sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 350.  
2. Place half of each of the following ingredients into the casserole dish [we used an 8×8 but you could use a 9×13]: elbow macaroni, butter, cheese, salt, pepper, flour. Mix ingredients thoroughly.
3. Place the second half of the elbow macaroni, butter, salt, pepper, flour & cheese into the casserole dish. Mix thoroughly.
4. Pour in all of the milk. 
5. Cover with aluminum foil and cook for 30 minutes.
6. Remove from oven. Uncover. Stir and place back into the oven, uncovered, for another 15 minutes.
7. While macaroni and cheese is baking, heat the pulled pork and mix in BBQ sauce to your liking. 
8. Once macaroni and cheese is done baking, sprinkle pulled pork on top.
9. Serve & enjoy! 

Have you tried this recipe? If so, let us know what you think in the comments below or on social media!

The post Pulled Pork Mac And Cheese Recipe first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

I am currently married, but I dated extensively online before that. For those of you that have been readers for a while, you may have read about my online dating woes. If not, you can read all about my online dating experiences here. I’ve experienced manipulators, scrubs, being catfished and, my personal favorite, a man I started dating who I met online who couldn’t be bothered when I asked him to take me to the hospital. Legit. He was with me, he refused to take me to the hospital and then left my house, leaving me alone. Turns out, I was having a heart attack. But he needed to take a nap, so… priorities! Anyway, the point I am trying to make is, some people you meet online are scum, and people that pull online romance scams are some of the scummiest.

Luckily for me I have been out of the dating pool a while. I say this because, girl [or guy], it’s rough out there. I have been seeing so many stories online, particularly on YouTube, about online romance scams. Fortunately, I was never successfully taken advantage of in this way, but as I have done my research for this article, I realize that attempts were definitely made, on many occasions. You might be thinking to yourself, “I will NEVER be a victim of a romance scam.” Hopefully you are right, but online romance scams have become so prevalent, that they cost US citizens 1.3 BILLION dollars in 2022. And no, that’s not a couple of guys taking a few rich widows for millions. The average victim is taken for $4,400 – which equals quite a lot of victims.

How To Spot Online Romance Scams

They Try To Leave The Dating App – Fast

While I was on dating apps, I was often asked, rather quickly, to leave the app and chat via email, text, or WhatsApp. I didn’t have WhatsApp and didn’t feel comfortable providing my email or phone number so quickly so I refused, often leading to my getting “ghosted” almost immediately. Honestly, it didn’t occur to me that someone was trying to scam me, I just thought the guy was being a jerk. For me, it was easier to keep up with our communications in one spot, so why move to another communication platform when we just met anyway? I have learned that this is a common technique scammers use to exert control over the situation. Why? If they stay on the dating app too long, the likelihood of them being caught by the app increases. They need to work fast and leave quickly, hopefully taking their targets with them.

They Ask For Personal Information And Are Stingy With Providing Theirs

Online romance scammers want as much personal information about you as possible so they can use it against you later. For instance, if you are a woman who always wanted children and never had them, the romance scammer might craft his story to include children. They want to fulfill your “needs” in that way, to come off as the best possible love match for you. The more information you fill out on your profile about your preferences, red flags, etc., the more the scammer has to work with in order to craft their story. These con artists are typically stingy with personal information, too. The less information they provide [on their profile or to you], the less they have to remember, and the less likely they are to get caught in a lie. Online romance scammers instead will make it appear like they are only interested in hearing about you – this looks like someone who is super interested – when in reality they are gathering as much information about you as possible, to form a fake persona catered directly to your preferences.

They Ask For Money Or Offer Investment Advice

The only thing that an online romance scammer is interested in is getting your money. I can not stress this enough. Many of them work in groups, based in overseas countries [often Nigeria]. These groups have scripts they go by that they have finetuned for years to account for most scenarios and excuses you might use not to provide money when requested. These people are master manipulators and cater their tactics to the victim. They might often “drop hints” for money, speaking of difficult scenarios they are in to hopefully pull at your heartstrings. They often demand money straight out, often in the form of cryptocurrencies and gift cards. If you refuse, or if you comply a few times and then stop, online romance scammers have been known to threaten violence. They often trick their victims into fake investments or participation in illegal operations. Always trust your gut. If you feel something is wrong, end all communications immediately and contact the authorities [linked below]. Unfortunately, once the money has gone overseas, it is incredibly difficult and unlikely that you will get it back. But you should still create a paper trail and report the crime anyway.

They Employ Love Bombing

Online romance scammers try to form intense bonds quickly. They do this because the more emotionally attached you are, the more likely you are to overlook red flags and choose to trust them. The end goal is to drain you of as much money as possible and the easiest way to do that is to gain your trust. They have a target and they are hyper focused on getting there as quickly as possible. What do your friends and family think of your new relationship? If they seem concerned, perhaps you should be, too. Ask yourself, does this seem to good to be true? If so, it probably is.

They Can’t Pass A Reverse Image Search

Remember, these online romance scams almost always contain photos stolen from unsuspecting people. Always reverse image search anyone you are considering as a potential match – especially if the potential paramour is not someone you know through a friend or family member. It’s really easy to do and only takes a few minutes. I don’t know how many episodes of Catfish that I have seen where the saboteur was easily found to be fraudulent with no other research than a simple image search.

They Avoid Meeting In Person

Online romance scammers always come up with excuses to not meet in public. They might be far away on an oil rig or constantly traveling for work. Or, you set up plans and then an emergency comes up. They might even ghost you for a while and be incredibly difficult to contact. Then they contact you with vague excuses. You try to meet again and, guess what? Another emergency – which becomes a cycle. Why? Well, they aren’t the person in the picture. And they sure don’t want to explain why they stole someone else’s photo in person and potentially lose the cash cow they are taking monetary advantage of. At the very least, if someone won’t meet you in public and they are actually the person in the photo, you have to ask yourself, do you really only want a relationship online? If the answer is no, then scammer or not, ditch that person. They aren’t serious about you.

They Avoid Video and/or Phone Calls

Online romance scammers will avoid video calls because, again, they aren’t that person in the photo. If they happen to video chat with you, it will most likely be a grainy, looped video that they have also stolen off an unsuspecting person. The scammer will say one or two phrases to match up to the mouth movements of the video they stole and that will be it – generally feigning a poor connection. This is just more trickery. If they can’t have a real video conversation with you, they are most likely scammers. Cut ties. Fast.

Gaslighting

Online romance scammers are masters at making you feel like the jerk or that you are crazy when you question their intentions. They had a vague emergency come up? You are insensitive and heartless if you want further explanation. The scammer can’t do a video call? You are a jerk for questioning their internet connection. You want further information on this investment they are pressuring you into? You are being paranoid and don’t trust them. You found out the scammer stole the pictures? You are now a crazy stalker for catching them in a lie. Scammers will always have an excuse for their behavior and you will always be the person at fault. You can’t have an adult conversation with someone with this lack of morality. And they certainly aren’t the person that you fell in love with. So why bother? Cut them off and block them on everything as soon as you understand what is going on.

If you have been the victim of an online romance scam, report the crime to the FTC as well as the FBI and Homeland Security.

The post How To Avoid An Online Romance Scam first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

Perfect for baby showers, birthdays, beach themed parties and other gatherings, these dipped pretzels are simple to make. With only a few minutes prep time, they are a great treat to share if you are in a pinch for time, too. Try our Candy Coated Pretzel Rods recipe and let us know if you think these are the perfect summer snack like we do.

Candy Coated Pretzel Rods Recipe

You Will Need:
Pretzels, candy melts, sprinkles
Servings: 12 pretzels
Prep time: 15 minutes
Down time: 1 hour
Storage: store in airtight bag or container

Ingredients:
● 12 pretzel rods
● 1 cup blue candy melts
● 1-2 tbsp white confetti sprinkles

Directions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the candy according to package directions.
3. Dip the pretzels 1⁄3 – 1⁄2 way into the melted candy. Set on prepared baking sheet, and immediately
top with sprinkles. Repeat.
4. Allow pretzels to set for about an hour. You can refrigerate them to make it faster.

It’s been such a roasty toasty summer this year so far. When I get invited to an event, the last thing I want to do is spend the entire day before in the kitchen prepping for said event. One, I don’t like to cook all day like that anyway and two, did I mention it’s hot? This Candy Coated Pretzel Rods recipe really requires minimal time in the kitchen. Can I get an “amen?” However, the dipped pretzels end up looking super cute so you can pretend you put in all the work. No one needs to know any different. We hope you and you friends enjoy this recipe! Please let us know what you think in the comments below or on social media!

The post Candy Coated Pretzel Rods Recipe first appeared on Cheap Is the New Classy.

Former waitress here. I have been sitting back, considering writing about this subject for a few years now. I waitressed in the 90s and early 2000s. I started serving in my late teens and continued all throughout my 20s. And, I must say, of all the jobs that I have had, of those that I no longer do, waitressing is probably the one that I miss the most. It just seemed like you had so much control over how much money you made. You were paid what you were worth, so to speak. You worked hard, you made well. You stood around and twiddled your thumbs, you didn’t. Seems fair to me. Granted, these are just my opinions and you might not agree but, as someone with over a decade of waitressing experiencing, I feel my opinion is well earned.

Tipping Culture Has Gotten Out Of Hand

I made $2 and change an hour. $2. Tips were a supplement to my income to ensure that I made a “living” wage. Honestly, in the end, I felt I made pretty good and I worked hard and picked up extra shifts where I could to be sure of that. You can say what you want about how employers should pay more so that tips aren’t a necessity for the server, but that is not really what I am here to discuss today. Perhaps we will dig into that topic another day. But for now, I want to have an open discussion about how expectations have changed where it concerns tipping in the past few years.

The Pandemic’s Effect On Tipping

During the pandemic, many companies could no longer provide all of the services they did previously. Many companies had to take on extra duties and work harder to provide the same level of service. There were so many businesses with vastly fewer employees than what they needed to handle the ever growing workload. Companies started asking for tips to help supplement their missing income due to loss of income where people were not utilizing services as often or in the same ways as they did pre-pandemic. Tips were asked for to help ensure employees made a decent wage. And customers gladly provided them.

Fast forward to today and many of these same companies are still asking for tips. I can’t tell you how many times I have been asked for a tip somewhere that never would have requested one before. The most obvious violator to me is when the little kiosk screen is turned around, with the tip generally already highlighted to auto add unless I remove it – for something as simple as handing me a drink over a counter or a t-shirt at a concert. I get asked for tips for almost every food or drink purchase I make, regardless of whether anyone did anything outside of typical cashier or fast food work. I, too, have years of experience running cash registers – a job I was never once offered a tip for, nor did I expect one. And I certainly did not ask.

Tipping Need Vs.Tipping Want

I guess what irks me is that many of these people already make decent money – at least when you compare them to wait staff. For instance, a quick scan of Google shows me that the average Starbucks barista in North Carolina makes over $30,000 yearly. For an entry level job that requires no formal education, I feel that is a decent wage. To contrast, when I was a salesperson, I made around that as my starting wage but I made more when I made sales. I did not make more just for doing what I was already paid to do. That’s not to throw Starbucks employees under the bus, that’s just a quick example of a place that I am always prompted to tip. We don’t tip fast food workers to do essentially the same job. Why then are we expected to tip baristas? Why also am I asked once by the barista and then again on the app? I never once asked for a tip as a waitress.

The most I ever made in company wages for being a server was $4.25 an hour. And that was for working the overnight shift that most any company would pay you a “premium” for being willing to work. $4.25 an hour. Again, I waited tables in the late 90s and early 2000s. Today, waitresses in many states still only make $2.13 an hour. Many, many years later. So, servers need the tip income to supplement their wages to make a decent amount of money. You might say, get a different job. And you have a point. Wait staff do choose to take on these positions, for a variety of reasons. But, ask yourself, do you really want wait staff to take on different professions? Do you really want to never be able to go out to eat and be served your food again? Are fast food service and drive-thrus alone really good enough for the rest of your life? I personally love to go out to eat, relax, and interact with a great server. And I like to tip them and show gratitude for their hard work.

The Entitlement Is Real

I feel like tipping, across the board, should be a choice and not something that we are incessantly requested to do. The entitlement is getting out of hand with some people. I can’t forget about the bridal store that almost demanded someone leave an exorbitant tip on a $10,000 dress. A bridal store that sets their own prices, so why would there be a need for a tip to supplement? I am all for tipping where there is a need to supplement an income, and I am all for tipping when I just choose to do so, but I am not for tipping in a situation where I feel there is an entitlement. I cannot tell you how many times someone has turned the little white screen around to me and mentioned leaving a tip. Many people feel this is a high pressure situation where the cashier or salesperson is staring at you, perhaps people in line behind you are looking as well and you have two choices: tip or look like a cheapskate. It’s gotten to where for me, personally, I have stopped going to many of the places that use this high pressure tactic to “force” a tip out of me. And remember, this is coming from a former waitress. Even as a waitress, who depended on tips to even make minimum wage, I never would have dreamed of employing this level of pressure to “force” a tip.

Tipping Fatigue & Consumer Pushback

All of this, let’s call it what it is, intimidation, is leading to what people are calling “guilt tipping.” Many patrons now feel like tipping has become less of a way of showing appreciation and more of an annoyance. And the majority of patrons are sick of it. Many of these people have stopped tipping anywhere. That means that wait staff who depend on this money are getting the shaft. I totally understand the feeling of tipping fatigue. I am right there with you, but please remember, some professions rely on tips to even be able to pay their bills. If you are going to pushback and stop tipping, please consider doing a little research about who actually needs the tip money to supplement their less than minimum wage income and be sure to tip accordingly.

What do you think? Has tipping culture got out of hand? Are you a server? Have you noticed a difference in tipping due to pushback? Let us know in the comments below or on social media.

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