$4.11 a gallon. Helllllllllllloooooooo, that's a lot of gas. Now, imagine if you're ME and you own around 40 cars that are driving 20 hours per day. Anyone want my gas bill? No? I thought not. It's robbery. In my business though, it's a necessary evil. I hate to see my hard earned..well, if I worked hard it would be hard earned..cash going out of a tailpipe. Nothing to show for it after except for a stack of gas receipts that the IRS hates to get from me. I thought I'd share some tips on how to  make your car run more efficiently and in turn, get better gas mileage.

First and foremost, make sure your car is in good running condition. Have your oil changed. Here's a $5 off coupon for Jiffy Lube. It's good until January of 2009. Print it every 3,000 miles.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. The better condition they're in, the better gas mileage you'll get. Here's a bunch of coupons for tire stores around the US. I decided to link directly so as not to leave out one region.

Make sure your air filter is clean. They get so dirty and it really adds drag to your motor when the clean air isn't getting in.

Going on a long trip? Consider leaving your big ole bad ass SUV home.  Rent yourself a smaller and more fuel efficient car. You'll actually save money on this deal. Here's a bunch of coupons for different offers.

Empty the trunk of the car and insides too if it's a mess. For every 250 pounds there is in the car, you lose 1 mile per gallon of gas. It's also dangerous to have a bunch of stuff crammed into your car. It can become a projectile if there's ever an accident.

Carpool! Save money and time by taking turns with other parents or co-workers. If you had to drive only twice per week you're saving 3 days worth of commuting gas. There's got to be savings in there.

If your car manual doesn't recommend higher octane gas, don't buy it! Buy the cheapest octane available.

Just stop driving so much. Sounds painful, right? I thought so too. Me, the Queen of "I must go out and shop today." Instead, I'm making lists and shopping every few days. I've got half a tank more of gas left over this week than I did last week. Now, on to the more fun things...FREEBIES!!

Ok, I recently hooked my printer back up. It was $200 and I got it on sale for $34 over Christmas last year. I used it twice, it hogs up space on my desk, so I put in on the floor under a big picture window I have. BIG mistake..big big big. It's a nice HP All in On. I hooked it up last night to use the scanner and it's not working. Lo and behold, Princess Less Than Charming comes into the office and goes into a snit because her "Stand ta see out da winnow" is now on my desk. She's got a $200 step stool and my printer isn't working. Coincidence? I think not! Regardless..head over to SmartSource.com. They have TONS of printable coupons.

Here's a free sample of Dove Mist. I love Dove products. The ad is in Spanish but that's ok. Por Favor, check it out! For the man in our life I offer you Vaseline Men. It's a free sample.


I love books, I love to read. I am very pleased and proud that both of my children simply adore books. When they're given the option of a toy or a book they usually always choose a book. Here is a free book for kids! Speaking of kids, when Nick wakes up in the morning he has what we lovingly refer to as "Death Breath." It's SO bad. He has perfect teeth, goes to the dentist regularly, and he's enough to knock me off my feet! Enjoy the $1 off printable coupon for Listerine Kids. I also have a free Klean to Go sample. It's a disinfectant.

Ever since I worked the Sundance Film Festival for ChaCha I'm interested in Utah and Nevada. Seems like a beautiful area. Click here for a free travel brochure and CD about what Nevada has to offer!

Do you know someone who has been touched by stillbirth, infant death, or miscarriage? Here is a free bracelet. Please, if you don't truly qualify for this, don't sign up for it. Thanks so much.

How about a free sample of..uh..well..lubricant? I am not talking for your car either..lol! Playtime Lubricants is offering a free sample. In the spirit of offering full circle freebies, I give you a free lambskin condom. Don't look at me to order it though. I have a crush on the Serta Sheep. I think they're totally cute. If you suffer from Catholic guilt over ordering all of these freebies, sign up and get your free rosary.

Here's a free sample of Sinuclean. Honestly, my allergies get worse and worse every year until I feel like I'm a prisoner in the house. I can barely stand it. AaachhhhOOOOOOOO. See what I mean? I know it's hard to find inexpensive and fun things to do with the kids over the summer. It's much easier and cheaper to cage them up in an institution of learning..lol. Check out the Kids Bowl For Free Program. We took the kids bowling once. The operative word being "once." I figure when someone has to scream "DUCK" and we're not in a restaurant, bowling may not be their sport. Enjoy it though!

Free sample of Gold Bond Powder. It's good for so many things.

Ok. I was serious when I said I know it's not cheap with kids over the summer. We went to Water Country last Sunday. It cost us $148 for 4 tickets. Darn my son for getting taller and needing a big boy ticket this year! One of the great women at CafeMom put this together and I am going to cross post it.

5 Awesome Amusement Park Deals                               

BUSCH GARDENS
Whether you visit the African themed Tampa Bay, Fla. location or the European themed Williamsburg, Va. park, there are lots of ways to cut costs. Show your AAA card at the gate for an automatic $5 off up to six tickets. And once you've purchased a ticket, you can return a second time completely free as long as it's within seven days. Active duty military and National Guard members can take up to three dependents to any of the Anheuser-Busch theme parks, including Busch Gardens, Sea World Orlando, San Diego, or San Antonio, Sesame Street Place, Water Country USA and Adventure Island, completely free. All you have to do is pre-register on Hero Salute and show your Department of Defense ID at the park's gate.

SIX FLAGS
Buy your tickets online for one of 11 park locations, including the flagship Great Adventure in Jackson, N.J., to get the biggest breaks. Tickets are slashed by $20 online to $39.99. If you're willing to stand in line, bring an empty can of Coca-Cola to the ticket booth to purchase two tickets for $24.99 each. Six Flags.  Get the scoop on rides, events and entertainment. Receive discounts and special offers exclusively for Team Six members. All delivered right to your inbox. Want an easy way to stay on top of all things Six Flags? Join Team Six now.

CEDAR POINT
Trying to figure out if you can squeeze a family vacation into your summer? Cedar Point says YES, you can – with their family four pack of admission tickets for only $132! Stimulate your inner thrill-seeker (and the economy) with this money-saving deal. And by the way, you can use this four pack during any day of the 2008 season. Hurry, it’s only available online through June 15, 2008.  Families of four can buy a package of four tickets for $132, leaving an extra $40 in your pocket. http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/admission/tickets/deals.cfm

Pay Once, Visit Twice
You can’t conquer the thrills and family fun at Cedar Point in just one day…so why not come back for a second day of fun? Here’s how this special ticket works: pay one price of only $52.95 online through June 15, 2008 and visit on the operating day of your choice. Then come back for another visit on any other operating day of the 2008 season*. That includes HalloWeekends! Two-visit tickets must be used by the same person and are non-transferable.  http://www.cedarpoint.com/public/admission/tickets/deals.cfm

WALT DISNEY WORLD
See&Do Orlando offers the deepest package discounts. Hotel and park admission deals are upwards of 50% off retail with four nights accommodations at hotels like The Best Western, The Radisson and The Mystic Dunes Resort &Golf club. If you book a Magic Your Way package directly through the Disney Resorts between August 24 and September 20, not only do you get your hotel room and admission tickets, but your entire group will eat for free. (Must be booked by June 22, 2008.)

HOLIDAY WORLD
It might be summer, but that doesn't mean you can't visit Santa Claus. For the 2008 season, Holiday World and Splashing Safari (yes, located in Santa Claus, Ind.) are offering tickets to both parks for $39.99, including inner tubes and all-you-can-drink fountain soda. Bring an empty Pepsi can or Bunny Bread wrapper to the gate for an additional discount between $2 and $11 off, on up to eight tickets.

No matter where you choose to spend your summer, don't forget the deals that already in your back pocket. Both AAA and AARP often offer discounts like free parking, hotel and restaurant coupons, so check with your state's website to start saving.

Ok, I'm done! At least for today. I have a trazillion things to do today. I have to watch the grass grow, observe them putting up my new pool, watch my husband put up the screen house, and play with Gabby. For those who have asked, thank you. My husband Chris is doing much better. It's taking time, of course, but I am feeling good that I may have him with me for another 41 years. God willing. I put my faith in God again. Sometimes, I forget. Not to get all religious on  you but prayer is free. My friends and ChaCha family all prayed for us when we needed it. I thank you all.

Happy Father's Day to all of my male readers. Happy Father's Day to all of the women who are Moms AND Dads.

Until next time...Happy Saving!

::singing to the tune of "I Want Candy":: I found freebies...woo woo woo. I sing out loud a lot here in my office. I'm not good at it. Gabby always covers her ears and says "Mommy, no sing." Rude child, isn't she? LOL!  I always have some stupid commercial music stuck in my head. The other night I actually woke myself up humming "F-R-E-E that spells free, credit report.com, bayyyy bee." I hate that commercial. Go to Freecreditreport.com to see what it's about. Many people actually worry about their credit. Not me. Can't be bothered. Either you have it and it's good, you have it and it's not good, or you just don't have it. I'm not losing sleep over my credit. There's enough things in this world to stress out about without thinking "Oh no, I may never get to buy that Italian yacht because I was late paying my monthly minimum payment to Wal-Mart. Darn them!"

I also don't like doing laundry. It's bad enough I have to earn the money to buy the clothes, go to the store to buy the detergent, then I come home and have to put it away. Then I have to gather up the dirty clothes, wash them, dry them, fold them, put them away, and empty that lint trap. How about a free sample of Tide with Dawn StainScrubbers? I love Tide but I won't usually spend that much money on detergent. I have one of those fancy schmancy washer/dryer sets that needs HE detergent. I also managed to get my greedy little hands on a free sample of Lysol Sanitizing Wipes. I love them. Then again, I have enough germs from when the kids were sick to start my own science lab.

Health & Beauty can't be beat. Here is a free sample of Vaseline Intensive Rescue. Haven't tried it yet, ordered the sample though! Every Tuesday when I watch "The Biggest Loser" I decide I'm going to get serious and drop this "baby weight." Keep in mind that my "baby" is going to be 5 this June. I have less than zero will power though. Here's a free sample of Dexatrim Max20. I wish you better luck than I have! I also don't have an eye for "size." Thankfully, Hanes is offering a free KidFit tape measure. I live in Massachusetts, home of the cranberry. We have cranberry everything here. So, to honor my heritage I will give you the 3 day supply of TherCran. Enter to win the sweepstakes and you get a free sample of Degree deodorant. I abhor cheating. With that said, lol, the answer to the quiz is Salazar.

I'm looking out my window today. It's snowing and raining. My Christmas decorations are still under about 2 inches of snow. It's so sad really. The first day of Spring is only a day away. I have started to love planting flowers. They cheer me up out of the winter funk I'm in. Here's a free sample of Bentley Seeds Wildflowers.

I don't write traditional letters anymore. Email has taken the personalization out of communication. I also love history. I'm a big history buff. John Adams is offering a free greeting card! They will contain a special postmark to commemorate the Power of the Letter campaign!

Sometimes I come across a freebie that just cracks me up. I'll be sitting here at my desk just giggling. That's how I felt about joining the "Pork Chomp Club." It's for dogs so I had to sign up for it for my Sammi Sue. I just get a kick out of names like Pork Chomp.

Ok, by today's standards, I am old. I remember TV that had 5 channels (4, 5, 7, 38 & 56), I remember when reference material had to be found at the public library. I remember Dirty Dancing when it came out, I remember wearing jelly shoes and leg warmers. I do NOT get the fascination with Webkinz. I mean, what do they DO? My 8 year old niece is addicted to them. Every weekend she has my poor Mom out shopping for a new Webkinz. My Mom has no clue what they are. She just dutifully hands over her debit card and says "Is that the one you want, Sam?" It's really kind of funny. My Mom is the best Grandma around. She obviously learned a trick or two from my own Grandma. Let's hope it doesn't skip a generation and that I too can be an awesome Grandma. Don't get me wrong, I'm not rushing it, I'm only 37! OHHH, the whole point of this conversation, though one sided, is that Limited Too is having a Buy One Get One Free Webkinz sale!

I decided to poke around and see what kind of coupons and freebies I could find in the food department. So, here's a $1.00 off printable coupon for SmartOnes frozen dinners. I have a $1.00 off printable coupon for Organic Sensible Sippers juice. I just filled out the application to host a Hershey Bliss party! YUMMY! You can also sign up for a free coupon ($4.50 value) of Coffee Mate. I love that stuff. The vanilla cinnamon is downright evil. Check every day for a limited supply of Honey Bunches of Oats. Sign up for Qdoba email club and they'll send you a free coupon for chips and salsa. Vamanos! Need energy to sign up for all of these freebies? Get a free sample of LiftOff, a new energy drink that enhances the mind. Remember how I once said that any day is a good day for cake? Sign up at Cake Mate and get a birthday surprise! Make sure that you click on the tab in the middle that says "Join Now" and then choose the Birthday Club.

Well, this was all an unexpected pleasure! Plenty to keep you all very busy..and your mailman, too. I tip my mailman during the holidays and leave him a bottle of cold water in the summer. It's the least I can do. He brings me tons of free things daily and he is a good sport about it. He always laughs at me when he has to drive up the driveway because it's too much stuff to fit into my mailbox. Hats off to our mailman for making it all possible. I'd also like to wish you all a very Happy Easter! May you find all of the chocolate eggs! Until next time....Happy Saving!

We meet again! There hasn't been much to share with you. I spent a few days shopping last week and I have to brag. I went to Kohl's with my Mom last week. I didn't need anything but she needed a bathing suit for her trip to Puerto Rico. Which, incidentally, I found her RT airfare and a hotel for a week for under $200! So anyhow, I go to Kohl's and they're having a 90% off sale. I bought 3 pairs of Vera Wang pants that are usually $185 a pair for...$1.40 each! It was totally unreal. I got some Ralph Lauren clothes for $2.60 each, clothes for the kids, clothes for my husband, and a few things I will never "need" but have always wanted! Sometimes, it's all in the timing. I made a KILLING that day. One good way to save money is to season shop. In the middle of the summer, stores will begin getting rid of their merchandise to make room for the next season. The same goes for every season. So, if you are wise, you will buy next year's clothing during this year!  Unless you're Elle, Cindy, Naomi or Carol, you don't have to worry about "What's Hot and What's Not" as far as fashion. Buy what YOU like, not what the fashion experts like.

So, here are the sales I've found this week. During the Christmas holiday season I was looking for a unique gift for someone. I didn't just want to grab the first thing off of the shelf. So, I went over to Things Remembered and found a neato and peachy keen gift. They're having a huge sale!

Another favorite store of mine is TJ Maxx. They're having a green sale. They're offering their new line of organic products at a huge discount. Check out the store nearest to you!

Attention K-Mart Shoppers! We have a 38-60% off clearance sale now going on. Stop by the blue light to see what type of savings you can find!

Do you need, want or love to shop in the Big and Tall stores? I will NEVER have to worry about shopping in the Tall store. More like I'd need a "Shorties R US" store. Yet, many people are not as vertically challenged like me. So, head over to King Size Direct for a 66% off clearance sale. Did you know, I have never opened their emails and thought they were a bed company? I opened it on a whim in a desperate attempt to find you more savings. I was shocked..lol.

Lee Jeans is having their annual 20% Spring Sale. 20% isn't much but it's better in my pocket than in theirs. I actually like the cut of Lee jeans.

Burlington Coat Factory is having their annual Men's 2 for sale. Buy 2 suits for the price of one. Now, I don't need to buy suits here. We're pretty casual people. So, I won't be taking advantage of this. However, if they ever run a sale on Buy 2 shirts that say "My Wife Works For ChaCha and All I Got Was This Stupid Mention" then I guarantee I'm on it!

Bluefly.com is having a 40% off sale on designer handbags. You can get a $600 purse for around $325..Sounds like a great deal to me. I go to the Coach outlet stores when I feel the need to feed my passion for handbags.

Brylane Home had a problem with their website last week. So, in addition to their rock bottom prices, enter code BHSORRY and receive an additional 25% off. Last week I got a free sewing machine, a free steak knife set, and a set of mixing bowls. All very cool and all very trendy.

You can save up to 50% at Chadwick's this week, also. They have a great selection of clothing.

One thing I try to do in my blog is to give you a glimpse into my life but not offer you an open door. It's always better to keep 'em guessing. I also try never to use it as a platform for my personal beliefs. Sometimes, it's unavoidable. I am throwing this in here merely for those of you that may have never even considered it. When a loved one passes away, there's nothing harder to deal with. Until you have to figure out how you're going to pay for their final expenses. My Dad passed away late last year. He had no life insurance, thought he was invincible. When I called his credit card companies, most were extremely wonderful. They offered sympathy and told me not to worry about the balances on the cards. They were minimal in today's world. However, there was one company. I shouldn't name it, it wouldn't be overly ethical. It rhymes with Fears, Hears, Wears, Bears...sounds like Sears to me! When I notified them that I had just lost my Dad the woman on the other end of the phone said to me "Well, what about his estate?" I said "Ma'am, there's no estate. There is nothing. I'm sorry." Her reply was "I am going to send someone over there and we'll take your furniture and your car to satisfy this debt." Ooohhhhh, you THINK so? Over my cold dead body will anyone EVER speak to me like this. Especially over a pathetic amount like $1200.  I could pay it. Why should I? It wasn't my debt. However, I was angry at Dad after that. WHY didn't he have life insurance? Why why why? So inexpensive and so easy to buy. I didn't buy those policies for the kids that Gerber offers when you're pregnant. I was afraid to jinx myself. Having been born on Halloween I am just full of superstitions. Now they've changed. My superstition is that if I'm stupid and don't follow through and buy these policies, we may not have them when we need them. So, for just one lousy dollar you can start a policy at Globe Life. One thing you can't do is put a price tag on peace of mind.

Well, those are my savings for the beginning of the week. I'll try to find some more and post again this week! So, today seems to be "Story" Day. I have no short supply of stories about my life. Some of them are the funniest things you'll ever hear. Some are heartbreaking. All are true. I did promise a follow up to my trip to see John Edward. I have to tell you, I am always skeptical. I don't trust easily. Especially lately. It was general seating and we had great seats. For $225 a ticket he should've sat on my lap. I went with 2 of my friends. One of them lost her husband recently in a motorcycle accident. It was NOT his fault. Someone ran a light and hit and killed him. His name was Jerry. Her name is Jess. They have a 4 year old named Sandra Elizabeth. So, imagine our surprise when John came right towards us and said "Who are the 2 J names? Who is S..Sandy, Sandra.." I was whispering "Jess, stand UP." She didn't know what to do and some dork in front of us stood up and said "I think it's me. My brother Gary died 18 years ago in an accident. I work with a woman named Sandy." Yeah, ok Slick. Nice job. There's no doubt in my mind that John was talking to my best friend. Jerry died 2 days before my Dad. Jess didn't know what to say or do and she let opportunity go by her. She emailed John Edward after the show and asked if the reading could've been meant for her. She got an immediate reply that yes, it most definitely could've been directed at her. She was there at that particular show for a reason. My Dad had a dog named Ghost. We had him for 11 years. He was white with a black patch. He got nose cancer a week after my Dad passed away. We kept him for 2 more weeks and then we sent him to the Rainbow Bridge to be with my Dad. They were always together. Literally inseparable. Halfway through the show (2 hours long), John said "There's a white dog with a black patch running down the aisle." He supposedly stopped near me and John said "Oh, his owner just came to take him." So, was that my sign? I don't know. I want to believe it. My problem is that i didn't go there with any questions. My Dad died but we know how. There's no treasure buried under the floor in the garage, and I am 110% sure that he loved me. I don't need him to come back to tell me. I feel it every day when I think about him. I have to say that John Edward is amazing. He's right on target, he's friendly and outgoing and he is the FUNNIEST person. He made me laugh throughout most of the show. He read a woman directly in back of me. She had some serious family issues. She didn't look like she was believing it too much..until the end. He said to her "Mom says it's ok, buy the new microwave." The woman screamed and her knees buckled. She said "My microwave blew up yesterday and I didn't know if I should buy a new one." She was convinced..lol. So am I. I would love to see another of his shows.

Thank you for indulging me this week. I don't often talk about myself so specifically. It is my reward for working so hard to help you to learn to save money. So, until next time...Happy Saving!!

Now here is a great resource to keep at your side at all times. The Entertainment book! This book is specific to where you live, and is jammed with half priced savings. There are buy one get one free offers, half price movie tickets and even money off coupons for national and local retailers. There are even great travel deals in this book. Never be without it. I keep mine in my car and flip through it before I enter a store! They are on sale now on the website for $10.00 off. This is a must have the frugal family lifestyle!

Free sample kit of South Beach products!





Free sample of Cottonelle Wipes for Sam's Club Members

Free sample of Huggies for Sam's Club members

A terriffic sampling website, all they ask is for feedback.

Here is a must visit website especiallyafter the holidays. Remember to think "GIFTS" for the coming year!




Visit the Pfaltzgraph site for
awesome deals like this one. In the clearance section you will find this acorn bowl and the serving platter together for $12.98. These are excellent quality and make a beautiful gift. If you can visit one of their factory clearance stores you can buy the set gift boxed for $6.42! Incredible!

Happy 2008 my frugal friends!

     As the New Year approaches, why not make some changes for  you and your family that will result in saving  serious money?                                                   

     Now most people cringe when you mention living on a budget. It can be tough, it takes discipline and you have to be willing to commit to the change. But there are some simple money saving techniques that you can use and still enjoy your life. You can save money, be thrifty and still have fun! You don’t have to give up on restaurants and eating out. You don’t have to give up on movies, travel, fun and other forms of entertainment. You just have to do it the right way, you can eat cheap, travel cheap and most of all still enjoy your life! Now then… let’s save some CASH!         

 

Coupon Offers

 

Your biggest resource is at your very fingertips, your computer. The internet has made it possible to research 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether or not you like to shop, you still have to, so get the best discounts before you do.

 

If you shop online, make sure you have a coupon code to enter at the end of your order  for a discount and check for  FREE shipping codes.

Never pay for shipping unless you absolutely have to. If you have to buy a minimum amount it pays for you to do so, rather than pay for shipping.

 

These are a few websites for coupon codes.

Simply look up the name of the store to see all current discount offers.

www.couponmountain.com

www.couponheaven.com                                     

www.keycode.com

 

     If you shop in a store make sure you have a printed coupon that you either got in the mail, or printed from the store’s website or the links above. Think of the stores that you regularly visit. Sign up on their websites with your email address. You will get advanced notice of sales, and exclusive money saving coupons that do not go out to the public.

I don't like to eat out. It has nothing to do with the cost, but at this stage of my life, I don't care to be served my meal by a mouse that is singing songs in a style that Weird Al Yankovic would be proud of. It's just not good for the digestion.

One of my favorite sites is Restaurant.com. Right now they are offering $25 gift certificates for $10. That's a huge savings. It is so great. You buy them online and then print them out right from your computer. The best part is that they're also offering a $20 off coupon for Dale and Thomas. For those that don't know, Dale and Thomas is gourmet popcorn. It's a little on the pricey side but it is fabulous. Dale and Thomas are also offering 20% off which sweetens the deal. I have bought Dale and Thomas' for myself and as gifts. They have some really nice holiday tins on sale now, also.

Another way to save money on dining out is to invest in the 2008 Entertainment Book . The book retails for approximately $47. I found this site that is offering a $10 off coupon and free shipping if you order by December 31st, 2007. The book has coupons for Buy 1 Get 1 Free, 50% off coupons for casual and fine dining, sports events, shows, hotels, etc. They claim to have $10,000 worth of coupons inside. The best thing about this site is that they say that if you receive the book and you aren't satisfied with the caliber of coupons, they will refund your money.

Another great way to save money and get discounts and free items is to go directly to a restaurant's website and sign up for their online newsletter. I have two favorites. My first favorite is the Insider's Club at Pizzeria Uno. They send me online coupons for free appetizers, free pizzas and invitations to private parties. I also happen to LOVE their pizza! My other favorite is the Longhorn Steakhouse. Sign up for their LongHorn LowDown online and receive a complimentary appetizer.

As I mentioned earlier, I dislike being served by a singing mouse. However, I am well aware that it is unavoidable if you have children. I have signed up for their (how hypocritical of me) Chuck E-Club and it offers valuable savings with coupons, birthday parties and promotions. I find that the majority of their products are way overpriced but what can you do? I'm not about to tell the kids I'm too frugal to take them. So, I have found that their coupons really can save money.

Well, I think that's about it from me today. I have found you savings on casual dining, fine dining, snacks and meals served by mice. I don't know what we'll find for next time. I'm not seeing any comments for what you'd like. So, who knows what next time will bring...one never knows with me...Until then, Happy Saving!

I know, I know - eating out at fast food places or restaurants is a money zapper. We could easily make the same food at home for a lot cheaper. But if you're pressed for time like I am, sometimes fast food eating is a blessing when you're on the go and no time to even go home to cook a meal for the family.

If it's an absolute necessity that you eat out, why not be prepared to get the best deal possible! Most restaurants (fast food and sit-down) have an e-mail list, some type of club or kid's club that they offer. You usually get a free coupon or such just for signing up. Then they will periodically send you information about promotions, contests, savings, and at times coupons and special savings.

Also keep an eye out for the local mailings/circulars you get in your mailbox each week. I always clip the coupons and keep them in an envelope in my car. This way if I have an unplanned, unexpected trip to grab a bite to eat, I already have my coupons with me and can snag a decent deal on our meal.

Last but not least, don't be afraid to ask questions! Inquire in person whether or not the establishment has any special deals going on, any special events coming up, or whether they have any days designated for free kid meals, senior discounts, student and military discounts, etc. Chances are, they do offer these incentives and just don't openly advertise them.

If you don't see your favorite restaurant in the list below, no worries. I only listed the ones I could think of off the top of my head (which is sometimes on strike). =) Just Google the name of the joint and check out their website. Sometimes a bit of searching is required, as some places don't prominently advertise it on their homepage. Best places to look are in the promotional area or the kid's area.

Applebee's Email List

Arby's Extras

Burger King Kids Club

Captain D's Club

Captain D's Kids Birthday Club/Aqua Agents
KIDS EAT FREE on Thursday at Captain D's. Get 2 free Kid's meals with any adult entree purchase at regular price, dine in only. Participating locations only - please check with your local Captain D's for their Kid's program details.

Wednesday is Senior Day at most Captain D’s restaurants. Seniors over 62 receive $1 off any dinner, platter, pasta dish, baked or grilled meal. Check with your local restaurant for details.

Chili's Email Club

Denny's Breakfast Club

Denny's Kids Birthday Club

Fazoli's eFamily

Hardee's Club

KFC Printable Coupons (also an option to enroll in the Colonel's Email Club)

Krystal Lover's Live

Outback Email List (bottom left has a "Keep in Touch" area)

Shoney's Bear Cub Club

Sonic Cruisers

Sonic Birthday Club
Happy Hour - 1/2 price drinks and slushes every day 2-4pm.

Wendy's Burger Lover Club

Zaxby's Kidz Club/Birthday Club

     I love to shop. It's kind of like breathing..if I don't do it, I may just cease to exist. The only problem with loving to shop is that I wasn't born rich or with the last name of Gates. So, in order to satisfy my need to shop, I have to temper it with savings, discounts and coupons. I only recently discovered online shopping. I can do this at any time of day or night, there's rarely a line, customer service is always polite and thanks me for my order, and best of all..they send it to me! I save money on gas and on wear and tear on my car.

 My most favorite bargain right now is at Buy.com.

They have a deal going right now that if you are a first time user to Google Checkout, you will get $10 off instantly. They're also offering free shipping on items if you choose the 5-7 day shipping option. What makes this totally fantastic is that they have a huge selection of items (and it's not junk) for $10.00. So, what I did was sign up for Google Checkout (free and easy), then go and pick out an item. I chose the mini digital camera for $10. Then I went and chose 5-7 day shipping for no cost. When I went to check out, I owed..ZERO! It's a freebie. They have toys, dvds, and many other things to choose from. The best part? Great stocking stuffer for..FREE! Free is one of my most favorite food groups.

 

 

I am not a meat eater. Can't stand the stuff..but they say you marry your opposite..and I did. So, though I may not eat it, I do purchase and cook it. OmahaSteaks.com is having an awesome 63% off sale. Packages that are typically $68.99 are going for $32.00. I don't have to ask "Where's the beef?" when these packages show up at my door as there's plenty of it. It's great if you're planning a party or you have an extra freezer that you use to store excess. I frequently tease my husband that we belong to the "meat of the month club" but in reality, if I can save 63% on excellent quality meats, it leaves me more money to spend on my favorite food group..chocolate.

 

 

 

I mentioned I love free things. One of my most prized possessions is my Senseo coffee machine. I went to ShareSenseo.com and found that they are giving away (for the cost of shipping) these coffee makers that retail for around $89.00. The cost of shipping is $15. When I ordered it they had a free shipping promo also, so I didn't pay one cent. The promotion was such a huge success that they started to charge for shipping. I loved mine so much that I ordered 2 more as gifts for people. So, for $30 I got about $180 worth of coffee makers. Definitely check them out. You "may" want to mention that book club you belong to or that you like to entertain. You seem to get faster service.

 

Well, I've saved you a bundle today from fruit to nuts...or at least from toys to steak. I'm still scouring the web for some great frugal advice. It's really cold here where I am. I can hear the oil burner pumping away as it puffs out my money with every gasping breath it takes. I need to winterize my house...I think my next set of tips will be how to best utilize your house to save money on heating/air-conditioning. Until then..Happy Saving! 

 

Three cheers for Wal-Mart! Wal-Mart now offers over 360 different medications at only $4 per 30 day supply. As often as my family seems to get sick, this is a blessing to our billfold!

Most of the drugs offered are generics and represent around 40% of the prescriptions a Wal-Mart pharmacy handles. If your doctor has written you a prescription, be sure to ask for the generic version, if he/she will recommend it for your condition. Typically most doctors will vouch for the safety and effectiveness of generics, but some are die-hard brand name 'script writers.

Another thing to keep in mind is that there are usually several different drugs in the same drug type/class. Print the $4 drug list out and take it with you when you go to the doctor. See if your doctor can recommend any of the drugs listed as a comparable medication for your treatment. Most doctors understand completely that most of us are trying to watch our expenses and unwilling to pay higher prices for brand name prescriptions.

What's even more helpful is that this program is for anyone insured or uninsured! Even if you are on Medicare, you still qualify for these savings!

Be aware of the fine print on the website. It states, "Certain drugs are priced higher in CA, CO, HI, MN, MT, PA, TN, WI, and WY due to state laws." Give your local Wal-Mart pharmacy a call before having a prescription filled, to find out the price ahead of time.

Visit the Wal-Mart $4 Prescription website here. Enjoy & frugal wishes to you!

Free = More Green

The desired outcome for all of us leading frugal lifestyles is to save money.  We hit the jackpot whenever we can score free loot! 

Aside from being obsessed with being thrifty, I am just as determined (some might say "maniacal") to seek out freebies.  When I say freebies, I mean something completely free, 100% - no shipping and handling, no signing up for any program, etc.

Stay in the Loop

The best way to keep up to date with the newest and greatest freebies is to join an e-mail group or visit some of the popular websites offering freebies.  Following are my favorites spots I highly recommend (and personally use).

 

Yipee!!! Yahoo!!!

Yahoo Groups has some excellent freebie groups you can join.  Just be aware that you will more than likely have multiple e-mails coming to you daily from the group, not to mention e-mail offers from the companies giving out the samples. 

My strategy for dealing with this is simple - create an alternate e-mail address.  Only use this e-mail address for your freebies (registering for the e-mail groups and registering on the free product's website).  This way you won't overload your regularly used e-mail address and have to filter through loads of extra bulk in your inbox on a daily basis.

I recommend Gmail for your free e-mail address.  Gmail has an excellent SPAM filtering system in place, and believe me - you will start getting a bit of SPAM once you really get into the freebie scene.  It's an undesired outcome, but when I look at all of the great free items I've scored, I believe it's worth it!

Start Sampling, Start Saving

I recommend signing up for a website called Start Sampling.  This company regularly offers sample items free of charge.  In return, they request that you give feedback on the sample once you've received it.  This isn't a requirement, but if you give feedback, you'll earn points.  You also earn points anytime you visit a company's website offering the sample, logging into your account daily, and so on.  When you accumulate enough points, you can redeem them for prizes.

Wonderful Wallie-World

Did you know that Wal-Mart offers lots of freebies on an ongoing basis?  I know - I couldn't believe it either!  Go ahead, it's okay to clap. 

Bookmark this webpage - Wal-Mart Samples.  This is the central location showcasing all of the available samples.  I usually reload the page several times, as sometimes they have a lot of samples but only a handful showing up on the page.  Check it often as their sample supplies come and go, and some go quicker than others.  They will arrive in your mailbox within a few weeks (Wal-Mart is pretty quick about sending them out). 

I've Saved the Best for Last! 

MyPoints has been a favorite site of mine for years.  Sign up for an account there and you are on your way to earning gift cards/certificates to stores, both online and offline.  There are several ways to earn points.  The easiest by far is their e-mail program.  You take several surveys on their site, indicating your preferences and interests.  (Do as I did - show an interest in every topic!)  Based on your interests, they will send out e-mails.  You click a link in the e-mail, are taken to the advertiser's website, and points are credited into your account.  That's simple and literally takes only a few seconds to earn points.

You can also earn points by registering for various websites.  Some registrations will offer up to 100 points one time for registering.  Keep in mind, you'll also get e-mails from these companies, so you may want to use your "freebie" e-mail address for this reason, too.  Once your points have been credited to your account, you can simply unsubscribe from the advertiser's mailings.

Aside from the easy ways mentioned above, you can also earn loads of points by shopping through their advertisers.  Say you plan on buying something from Overstock.com.  First log into your MyPoints account, then go to the Shopping section.  Click on Overstock.com, and you'll be directed to their website.  MyPoints will reward you with 'x' points per dollar spent.  Different erchants have different point values.  This obviously isn't free, but it's a great way to earn free points for something you're already planning on purchasing.

Once you've accumulated around 1,000 points, you can begin to cash them in for rewards.  I just recently cashed in my points for a $25 Target gift card, which arrived to my home in less than 2 weeks!  Free Christmas shopping, here I come!

Let Me Feed Your Need

Here are a few freebies I came across today, to get you started.  Enjoy and have a beautiful day - take pride in all that extra change jingling away in your pocket!  (*^_^*)

FREE K-PAK Rescue Your Hair Kit

Fibersure FREE Sample and $2 Coupon

Coupon for a FREE Bottle of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce

FREE Discover Healthy Living DVD

FREE Sample of Purina Naturals Cat Chow from Wal-Mart

FREE Sample of Dove Hair Care from Wal-Mart

FREE NutraSweet Sample from Wal-Mart

Coupons for a FREE Shake and Savings on a Six-pack of Ensure Shakes

FREE Juicy Juice Sippy Cup & Guide to Your Child's Nutrition

FREE Printable $2 savings coupon for NutriPals Fruit Bars by PediaSure

FREE Subscription to Kraft Food & Family Magazine (I love this mag!)

FREE Slim-Fast Starter Kit (has pedometer, shopping list, coupons & more - $30 value)

FREE Water Bottle in a Gift Bag from International Aid (Mission Network News)

FREE RiceSelect Reusable Shopping Bag & $1 coupon

FREE Fiber One Cereal Sample

FREE Pepcid Complete Starter Kit

FREE Sample of Kotex Ultra Thin Ultra-Compact Pads

FREE Sample of Huggies Gentle Care Sensitive Baby Wipes

FREE $3 Coupon on Listerine Whitening Quick Dissolving Strips

FREE Sample of BIZ Detergent

FREE Surprise Gift from Sutters Creek

FREE Eastern Orthodox Chant Sampler CD & Gega New Sampler CD (click Add to Cart)