If you were to look in my basement right now, you'd probably think a squirrel had moved in for the winter. There are heaps of black walnuts drying on racks, and heaps more waiting to be husked. (What can I say; I like free food).

But those nuts won't be there long because I'll soon be storing them away to ensure that they stay fresh all winter long. My plans for chocolate chip walnut cookies, candied walnuts and apple walnut muffins;depend on it.

• How to Store Nuts

Related Reading:

• How to Harvest Black Walnuts
• A Guide to Identifying and Harvesting Tree Nuts

Photo Credit: law_Keven

Are the current meat prices butchering your grocery budget. If so, there's plenty you can do about it. Consider this idea:

Buy Bones

Did you know that Honeybaked Ham sells their ham bones for $5 a piece (the price may vary in your area), and often runs a two for one special. With a full two to three pounds of meat left on each bone, that's a great deal.

• 10 More Ways to Save Money on Meat

Photo Credit: Michael_Berch

Like to rent DVDs, but hate to fork over $4 for each one? Then, give RedBoxing a try. DVDs rent for $1 a piece, and you don't have to make a special trip to the video store to get them. I think I'll try it this weekend.

Check out Donna Montaldo's explanation of RedBox, and you may decide to try it too:

• Get Super Cheap (And Free) Movies from RedBox

Poll:

Sure Oprah has her list of favorites, but who can afford them? What we need is a list of favorites recommended by frugalites for frugalites. So, share away. What are your favorite, no-fail products? Here's my list:

• Method hand soap and all-purpose cleaner
• King Arthur flour
• Arm and Hammer Essentials laundry detergent
• Bert's Bees lip balm (in the tin)
• Kiss My Face lip balm w/ SPF (for the summer)
• Real Lemon lemon juice (the store brand just isn't the same)
• White vinegar and baking soda (any brand will do)
• KitchenAid cooking gadgets

See what Other Frugalites are Saying:

• Our Favorite Things