Five Frugal Things | I'm almost out of time!
As you guys know, I'm normally pretty good about redeeming all my birthday freebies.
But the other day I looked up at the calendar and was like "AAAAAH! April is almost over!" And I'd barely redeemed any.
So, I rectified that this week, at least partially.
1. I got my free birthday coffee
This was more challenging than usual because I had clinical on my birthday, and I had to be there at 6:30 am.
So, I just got myself going a little earlier than usual and stopped at the Starbucks closest to my hospital.
2. I got a free birthday cookie
After my 180-question exam on Thursday, I stopped at the UPS store to drop off some graduation dresses that didn't fit, and then I stopped in at the nearby Potbelly to get a double chocolate cookie.
A little-known rule: when you survive 180 exam questions, you deserve a small treat. 😉
3. I got a free mini bundt cake
I chose chocolate-chocolate chip because OF COURSE.
4. I used a $5 birthday discount at Kohl's
They emailed me a $5/any purchase discount, and of course I headed to a clearance shelf. 😉 I bought a two-pack of CuddleDuds socks on clearance for $8.55, so they were $3.55 after my discount.
And they are SO SOFT.
My feet will be happy come fall/winter.
5. I cancelled my protein powder subscription
I had signed up for a subscription last summer when I ordered my Promix protein powder (while working with Ben Palocko).
I just did that to get the discount; I didn't actually want the subscription! As we have discovered, I'm not a big protein powder girl; I'm gonna have to struggle to use up the bags that I already bought.
I managed to cancel the order within the window of time before it shipped, and I also completely canceled the subscription.
If I become a protein powder girl, I can always restart it. But I'm quite sure I'm going to remain a chicken/cottage cheese/eggs girl for my protein needs. 😉
I’m also not a protein powder girl, but I’ve been using unflavored collagen in my coffee every morning for years and it makes a world of difference for me! As a hypoglycemic, it helps give me a good protein boost first thing as I make my breakfast.
@Haley, I also use unflavored collagen in my coffee but didn’t realize there was a protein boost from it. If I don’t use it for a few weeks, my hips hurt worse than normal (it’s a mild hurt that I mostly can ignore).
@Haley, same! Ive really noticed a difference in so many areas. Joint pain, hair growth and I really love the protein boost. It’s about as good as protein powder. I’ve used it for a few years. Costco has it on sale often and I think that’s the best deal around usually.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana,
I never thought of this for my joints. I don't drink coffee, but maybe I can find a way to include this in my diet.
@JD,
I've tried a lot of them, and if you want one that really dissolves- as in no clumps, even in tea- vital proteins or Besha are the only ones that don't give me gross clumps.
@JD, I have been adding Great lakes collagen to my youngest's smoothies (he just got braces), and you can also mix it into yogurt as well. That's what I did for oldest DS, who needed it while his wound was healing.
@JD, I don't drink coffee anymore (I do miss it) So, I add it to whatever I am having in the morning: smoothie, oatmeal, yogurt bowl.
@Caitlie, I totally agree! We have a BJs membership here and they have the best deal even without a coupon.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, some really great friends of ours who are about 10 years older than us look way younger than they are and are in great shape with tons of energy. Collagen was one of her top recommendations when I asked what she does.
Frugal things:
- In keeping with Kristen's topic yesterday about Spaving, I purchased face products when they were 20% off.
- DH and I were in the mood for milkshakes, thanks to my sister bragging about her strawberry milkshake! Instead of paying $5 each for one, DH picked up ice cream on sale and we used the last of the strawberries to make milkshakes at home.
- I baked our son's birthday cake instead of getting dessert at the restaurant when we went out to dinner to celebrate his birthday.
- Continue to use of my Kindle Unlimited subscription to the fullest. I read over a dozen books in the last month. Most of the books I want to read have a long waiting list at the library so Kindle Unlimited is a better option for me most of the time.
- Made homemade granola using Kristen's no stir granola recipe.
@Beverly, We try hard not to pay for many subscriptions, but Kindle Unlimited is also one I have & maximize. I'm a super avid reader (and, a speed reader, which can be kind of fun, but means you go through a lot of books!). I average about 25/month, so I like to think they are losing money on me. 😉
@Hawaii Planner,
25 books a month? You ROCK!!!!!!
@Hawaii Planner, if you are on GoodReads, I’d love to follow you!
@Hawaii Planner, Wow!!! Holy smokes that is amazing. I consider myself a superhero when I manage 5!!! Mind blown
@Beverly, I share my Kindle library with my two daughters (both avid readers), and we all borrow from Kindle Unlimited. Between the three of us, we read a LOT of books every month.
Ok, first, I smiled at your reference to 'graduation dresses.' I am so excited for you to make that walk! 🙂
Over here, I have a coupon for a free rotisserie chicken that expires tomorrow, so that is a priority. From there I should be able to use it in three meals, starting with a coconut curry chicken soup recipe I just located that looks delicious!
Aww, thank you!
A white dress is common for graduation, of course, but for the nursing pinning ceremony it is especially expected. Sooo, that's why I had ordered some dresses to try on.
@Kristen, you have that white sundress from Target, but I guess there isn’t enough shoulder material to pin anything. Maybe you can rent a dress!
@Kristen,
Central Calif. Artist Jana has a good idea. Could you perhaps find a white shrug, sweater or shawl to wear with the pretty white sundress? Or put a nice white blouse or a jacket over your Target dress? I know you'll come up with a fabulous and frugal outfit for your Big Day! (Please post photos! We all wish we could be there in person to cheer you as you walk the stage. But know that we're with you in spirit!)
@Kristen,
I mentioned it later, but Walmart has some fabulous eyelet dresses that I think you can order in white.
1. Submitted claim form for class action settlement with insurance company.
2. Planted one pot of herbs, another with two lettuce varieties, and another of pansies. That’s the extent of our annuals this year.
3. Snipped chives that are sprouting up throughout our garden. This is the gift that keeps on giving so I’ll dry whatever we’re not able to use fresh.
4. Made a Budget Bytes entree that I learned about from Hawaii Planner: Beef (I used plant-based) and Cauliflower Taco Skillet. Excellent. The trifecta of frugal, easy and delicious.
5. Requested and received hanging file folders from Buy Nothing.
@MB in MN,
I often add leftover veggies to my tacos. I cope them up finely. I started this when my kids were little so they would each more vegetables. They seemed to disappear in the taco mix.
Those socks look amazingly comfortable! Also, my husband and I got lunch from Jimmy John's on Saturday and he was surprised that I had a rewards account with them. He asked, "Do you actually go there all that much?" I told him no, but they give me a free sub for my birthday every year and there's a good chance I've gotten as many free subs from my rewards account as I've actually paid for. Note: Our visit on Saturday did earn me a free cookie!
My FFT that includes a somewhat spendy anniversary trip weekend:
1. Part of our anniversary trip involved going to a Tigers baseball game (YAY!!!) and I texted my friend that had told me about a free parking situation. Since the online parking options were running around $90, this was a huge savings for just a few blocks of walking. Good for our wallet and our bodies.
2. We did not buy food or drinks at the stadium. Instead, we ate lunch on the way and bought a case of water from Meijer. (You're allowed one unopened clear water bottle per person.) I'm sure that the entire case cost less than one beverage in the park.
3. I drank water at a few of the restaurants we ate at.
4. I had a big pump bottle of lotion that couldn't pump anymore out, so I turned it over into an old glass moisturizer jar and probably got a couple weeks' worth of lotion out of it.
5. I almost forgot to email the theater director about when we want to redeem our two complimentary tickets for the play my daughter is in this weekend, but I finally remembered yesterday. Phew!
Side note: I purchased a smoothie on Saturday and, good gracious, those things are expensive! I feel like every time I make one at home I should count it as a frugal thing - especially since I always freeze a case of strawberries when they're on sale.
@Ruth T, my teen said his teacher took whole class to local (healthy) smoothie place to get smoothies & was shocked how much they cost. Teen said drink was good, but $8/$9 (small) each is expensive.
I told teen milkshake mixer in cupboard & fruit in freezer. Though teen had Chai mixed berry, so I might have to purchase Chai.
I'm not sure I'm being all that frugal lately, but I am trying to make good money decisions on what I am buying. Lately I have been eating out less, and I even forgo my routine CFA dinner last night. (: I still have about $20 on my gift card to Half Price Books, and will stop in there today while batching my errands. And this week I am eating out of my freezer, so my grocery bill will be quite low. Little wins, but still good!
@Gina from The Cannary Family
If you can't get one big win, a bunch of little wins also count. They quickly add up!
1. I'd made this dress back in October but it was unwearable because the fabric was so thin. I took another dress that's worn out and turned it into a slip, and now I can wear my new dress!
https://www.instagram.com/meira.the.bear/p/DIrmkQUxpjo/?img_index=1
2. Found myself an EXCELLENT snack for packed lunches: chia seed pudding, especially chia seed pudding with some mango that my mom gave us chopped up in the bottom. Simple! Make-ahead! More protein and fibre! Actually tastes good! I'd hoped my toddler would like it too, but she said it was too "sticky." Oh, well.
3. Ate some of the leftover Passover food: meatballs and chicken schnitzel. Not as good as regular (the matzah meal has a...unique flavour/texture that really can't be disguised) but good enough.
4. Soaked and boiled some chickpeas to add to my pureed veggie soup, because the soup wasn't filling enough on its own.
5. I voted yesterday in Canada's federal election. Voting is a free way to help choose policies that have an enormous economic impact on me. I'm so, so grateful to live in a democracy.
@Meira@meirathebear,
That dress is just lovely! You look great in the blue!
@mbmom11, Thanks! I've already worn it twice 🙂
I meant to add for Kristen--I think you can add protein powder into baked goods, including bread, to boost the protein. I'm curious if it's best added as a dry ingredient (replacing some of the flour) or as a wet ingredient (like whey protein + water instead of milk, for example.) Might be worth a try if you're having trouble using it up!
@Meira@meirathebear, What a cool dress! And that fabric looks luscious.
@Cindi, thank you! It's so cozy 🙂
@Meira@meirathebear, thank you, our Canadian neighbor, for exercising your democratic right to vote. Many many of us here in the US very much value you and your country.
@Julia, @Meira: Yes, what Julia said!
FFT, Mostly Gardening Edition (revised/updated from a couple of recent NCA comments):
(1) Dr. Bestest Neighbor has joined a gardening buddy of his in doing some spring planting in the little park that runs either side of the Depression-era brick steps from the end of our cul-de-sac down to a main road. I’ve begun contributing to the cause by giving them all of DH’s old hoses and hose lengths, so that they can run water down to the plantings nearer the foot of the hill. A case in which things that are of no use to me can be used by others.
(2) And I’ll be contributing some seedlings and divisions from my plants to the park effort in a few weeks. I have more echinacea, beebalm, lamb’s ears, etc., than I know what to do with.
(3) I've converted one of the old shop-vac tubs I think I described earlier (I found these holding kindling in the back of the current woodshed) into a planter, and started carrot seeds in it. I'll probably do some potatoes in the other one as soon as I can find some potato sets cheaply. Both tubs will be covered with fire-pit lids to keep critters out. (I now know that I've got at least two woodchucks.)
(4) I’ve just decanted a box of 20 Mule Team Borax into a large Folger’s coffee container. I don’t drink Folger’s myself, but I save the containers from other people’s recycling as needed; they have many uses. And it should be a lot easier to scoop the borax out of the Folger’s container than out of that (oof!) box it comes in. Finally, I may need the borax for an ant invasion of my house, as soon as I can figure out where the ants are getting in.
(5) And I’m using two 5-gallon buckets I’ve found around the ‘hood–one from Lowe’s and one from Home Depot–for various gardening purposes this year. I used to get a steady supply of 5-gal. buckets from DH, but most of those have now reached the end of their usefulness. And, hey, those buckets are $5 apiece at the big box stores!
You have reminded me that I have a good coupon from DSW, so I will head there to use it before it expires (around May 11, I think).
1. I found a DVD in Goodwill that my sister wants for $1.99, so I picked it up, and while there, noticed a bag with what looked like fabric scraps but also zippers. Lots of zippers. The whole bag was $2.99. When I got it home, I discovered the fabric scraps were actually where more zippers had been cut out of discarded clothing. Will I take the time to pick the stitches out of those zippers? Possibly. In the meantime, I got way more than $2.99 worth of zippers that were just out of, or still in, their packages, and a zipper tool to repair zippers to boot. The packaging for the tool looks circa 1960's, so I assume the tool is useful, to have hung on to it that long.
2. I also found a like-new pair of fun-patterned, cute, Keen casual shoes at Goodwill. I sanitized them and put them in the sun as usual, and they are ready to wear.
3. I gave away part of my Easter ham to my kids, but I still had enough left to eat a lot of ham. I finally cut the rest off the bone, put the bone in the freezer, and made devilled ham with the cut off meat. It doesn't feel like "ham again" when it's devilled and on a sandwich.
4. I mentioned to my sister that my long tablecloth used at holidays is starting to show some age, and she found one at a thrift store in perfect shape, color and size, for $4. We give each other our wish lists for thrifting, and frequently find what the other needs.
5. I need a new clothes washer, since repairmen won't touch the main bearings. I am tired of spending hundreds of dollars for a washer to last 5-7 years, so I am taking my time to buy a new one. In the meantime, this weekend I washed most of my laundry manually. I'm saving on electricity and water, at least.
(I keep hearing "get a Speed Queen," but what if it doesn't last, either? They cost a lot! I'll take suggestions.)
@JD, I bought a Speed Queen about ten years ago, which was a total lemon. They had changed their design and replaced a key part with a plastic part, which was of course a disaster. I understand they have since gone back to the original design and part, but last time I needed a washer, a few years ago, I bought a commercial Maytag, which is comparable to a Speed Queen. I haven't had it long enough to know if it will last, though.
@kristin @ going country,
My current washer is a Maytag "Commercial quality" and I think I got maybe 6 years out of it. I hope yours is much better!
@JD, I listened when everyone said Speed Queen! and regret it. Everything comes out covered in lint and there's no lint trap to clean out. We don't own a dryer so I can't even remove the lint in the dry cycle. No more Speed Queen for me.
@JD, we have a 10 year old Speed Queen, the basic model, and it’s been a champ for our family of 7. We’ve had one repair near the 10 year mark. I looked at new ones recently and the prices have increased considerably since we purchased ours. :/
Another factor to consider if you are short, is how deep is the tub? My mom has a giant Maytag, and at 5’3”, even with shoes on, I can barely reach the bottom of the washer.
@JD, here's a second vote for commercial Maytag washer.
@JD,
One of my relatives ran laundromats. He said that if you can find a Maytag that was manufactured in Newton, Iowa, get it! The belts on those old Maytags have commercial belts on them, and they are practically indestructible.
Here's the kicker: Maytags are no longer made by the Maytag Co. It was bought out by the company that makes Frigidaire, Westinghouse and other ordinary brands. The only difference in a newer Maytag is the name on its nameplate, my relative said.
It's been quite a number of years since Maytag closed up its Newton factory, but if you luck out, maybe you can find one in good condition at an estate sale or used appliance store, etc.
I've since heard wonderful reviews about Speed Queens, but I don't know very much about that brand.
An appliance repair guy, who was working on my dead refrigerator, said to always stick with U.S. brands (in laundry appliances, refrigerators, freezers, etc.) because the ones manufactured overseas keep him in business; in other words, they're not worth a flip. But with the tariffs, they may be a lot more expensive than Speed Queen.
@JD,
I've had my speed queen for 11 yrs of hard use without breakdowns. My other two front loaders never lasted more than 5 yrs each.
@PD,
And Kristin @ goingcountry, when you say commercial, do you mean the kind actually made to accept payment? That question sounds silly to me, but my Maytag that I'm having to replace says Maytag Commercial Technology or something similar. Do you mean actual commercial machines?
@Fru-gal Lisa,
I've heard people are paying good money these days for the old Maytag automatic wringer washers!
I've read good reviews about Speed Queen, but a LOT of negative reviews on getting warranty work done on them. I already struggle with getting anything worked on under warranty where I live, and the repair companies that the manufacturers tell me to call almost always say they don't do that work or don't do it where I live, and they wish the manufacturers would stop giving out their numbers.
We used to have used appliance stores here, but no longer. I wish I had time to shop around at estate sales, but I'm getting desperate here! Thanks for the interesting information! I didn't know all of that.
@Blue Gate Farmgirl,
Is yours top or front loader?
@JD, we purchased brand new 18 years ago Estate by Whirlpool Corp Heavy Duty Super Capacity top load washing machine (with knobs). It was considered commercial grade washer & we only had it repaired few times, minor things if I recall & repairman said great washer, with only few basic parts & easy to access to repair. Repairman also said always get basic washer/dryer because less stuff equals easier to repair & never get front loading washing machine because most difficult to repair, if can be done.
Washer still works today, had family of 5 with 2 dogs for years.
@JD,
When our washer died a few years ago, we bought a Speed Queen because a friend of mine who sold appliances for years said it was the best. It's been a great machine. I don't recall it being any more expensive than the rest. We were told by another friend who is an appliance repairman to stay away from LG and Samsung appliances because they don't last.
@JD, not sure if you'll see this since it's the next day, but we felt the same dilemma when we finally had to replace our 25-year-old Kenmore a few years ago... Do we go with a high-quality brand and trust it still is, or cheap since it's hard to find repair people anyway?
We went with cheap and cheerful - got an Amana, I think this model NTW4516FW which looks like it's on sale at Lowe's for just under $500. I don't love it as much as my old one, but it has held up quite well for a few years now, including heavy blankets and dirty outdoor clothes, as well as dress clothes. Good luck!
@JD, my appliance repairman once said that when people ask him what kind of washer/dryer to buy, he tells them any one that's harvest gold or avocado green! LOL!
Five frugal things
I made a week's worth of oatmeal so I could just nuke a bowl on the mornings I eat it.
I parked my car in my neighbor's garage. We have equipment left on my side of the garage from recent home improvement projects so I can't get my car in. It occurred to me that my older neighbor across the street has an empty garage after recently giving up her vehicle. So before recent bad weather when hail was expected, I asked her if I could park my car in her garage until the threat passed. She graciously agreed. Even though I have full coverage on my car, if it got hail damage and we wanted it fixed, we'd be out our deductible.
I always forget to do this, but Spring has me in the growing mood. I sprouted some green onions. I cut the root end of a few green onions I used while cooking and put them in a glass with a little bit of water. In just a few days, they're already growing a bit. When they get a little bigger, I'll plant them in a little pot to keep on the window seat in the kitchen. Free green onions!
I made my own bottle of Poo Pourri using a recipe of 2 teaspoons of alcohol, 20-30 drops of essential oils and water, refilling an original PP bottle. Small spray bottles are available also in the art supply section atHobby Lobby or at Dollar Tree stores. I tend to use a combination of oils I'm not crazy about to use them up and the combinations are usually good, and of course, better than the alternative.
I realized an all over powder face makeup would work as a perfect neutral eyeshadow base so I saved the cost of a new eyeshadow. I hadn't been using it and there's enough to last for months.
You made the most of your birthday rewards!
1) Helped DS19 with summer job applications, and now both teens will be gainfully employed.
2) We've done so well with eating leftovers out of our freezer that we only have one meal left! From an efficiency perspective, this is great. From an emergency "what are we going to eat", less so. I hope we will get back into an effective cooking groove soon, but it's slow going at the moment.
3) Used DoorDash credits (from our credit card) to partially offset a delivery dinner. It also yielded 2 lunches & one additional dinner as leftovers.
4) Found a 2lb package of pasta for $.99 at the grocery store, while I was there picking up the Friday Freebie (juice, which we will use in smoothies). DS18 eats a ton of pasta, so this will be helpful for sure.
5) Found a large stash of bathroom toiletries in the very back of a cabinet. That's not where we normally keep them, so I'm kind of unsure of how they got there. Anyway, mixed them back in with the normal stash, and now have a good start on things DS18 will need to take to college.
I always put protein powder in my porridge and smoothies!
What I can think of so far...
1. I went to the gym a few times. I get classes included in my membership and I also see a personal trainer, which I think of as an investment in health!
2. I needed new shoes for the gym and a swimming costume (bathing suit) and I found both on sale.
3. I found food reduced at the supermarket.
4. I air-dried some laundry rather than using the drier.
5. I bought some things on a trip home which are cheaper than here.
Kristen, after a 180 question pharmacy exam, you deserve a BIG treat!!! And, after finishing all your nurse courses, ditto.
1. Brought a sealed package of plastic forks, left behind 2 or 3 years ago by former roommate, to a teacher who could use them. Decluttering, however small, is frugal. After all this time, I'm sure roommate isn't coming back to get her kitchen pantry stuff.
2. Instead of paying a mover to put the ornate cedar chest in the front room, I did it myself by pushing it onto a rug that I used as "wheels".
3. Using what I already have to (re-) decorate my newly (re-)floored rooms. (I think I already listed this, but I used the left over vinyl planks and piece of threshold to refloor a small bathroom, thus reusing what would otherwise be thrown away from the front room flooring project.)
4. Repotted ivy using containers I already had.
5. Donated some odds and ends to Goodwill and got a 20% off coupon good for any of their donated merch.
I finished a big work project and really wanted to sew, so I checked out my fabric stash and did a little-de-stashing. I took a dress I made a couple of years ago that was too big and re-cut it into a simple T-shirt dress for summer, and made a long-sleeved knit top from some fabric I thrifted for a couple of dollars a few years ago.
I made a self-watering planter for my greenhouse from an old storage bin.
I'm working on decluttering under some cabinets. I've thrown some things away and have a big bag of stuff to donate. More to come.
We're harvesting a couple of salads a week from the greenhouse.
A friend alerted me to a need for volunteers for massage therapy training at the local hot springs. I attended the training two days in a row and got to be a practice patient for the students. They were working on specific modalities, so it wasn't a complete massage, but very relaxing, I met some great people, and got to spend several hours soaking at the hot springs.
@Cindi, getting free massages if only partial has to be wonderful.
@Cindi,
Volunteering at massage therapy training is an ingenious frugal thing!
I would like to do this kind of volunteer work. 😉
Good Morning,
In my pursuit of the 63 National Parks, I am off to Tennessee tomorrow. I have a guided trip to the Smokey Mountains with an outfit that does adventure tours for women. The tour is called Boots and Roots. We will be hiking and studying women artists of the Appalachians. We get a pottery session in as well.
Cost cutting measures.
1. I used points on my IHG card to stay the night before and after the tour starts.
2. Since I had a day to kill, I decided to go to Dollywood. I found the best price was Sam's club for a ticket.
3. I researched a show for the evening, and bought a premium ( not VIP) seat which will comes with a vegan meal. I am not vegan but want the veggie focus. I saved $30.
4. After a month of maybe 10 hours on the phone on hold, I finally received the Paypal reimbursement of $500 from an airlines. That is $50 an hour. Not bad for a retiree.
5. For the plane trip, I will pack my usual cut up celery sticks, nuts, dried fruit, beef jerky and Jo Jos chocolate. I have found this combo really keeps my hunger in check, is healthy and cheap.
Ohh, enjoy your trip! And yes, sometimes the vegetarian/vegan meals are more interesting and creative than the meat-based options, so I sometimes choose those.
@Mary Ann, One of my favorite places on earth is sunrise up on Clingmans Dome. The air seems so fresh and clean it sparkles. All the little birds and bees flitting about the wildflowers that frame the beautiful view above the clouds. Big sigh.
@Kristen,
I try to do a meatless meal each week, usually on Mondays after we've had our weekly steak Sunday so hubby can't complain too much.
I have a stash of meatless meals that I rotate as f I'm alway looking for more. Yesterday I made spicy stuffed Mexican zucchini and they were great and meatless.
1- borrowed my neighbor’s power washer and did my outside jobs. He borrowed my chainsaw for some limbs, so it was a good trade
2- bought mulch for half price per bag at Lowe’s. I got just enough to pretty up the beds. What a difference!
3- continuing to eat down the freezer meat before I buy anymore. Down to the last 4 things and made a wonderful chicken piccata this week
4- won a 4 course dinner w wine pairings dinner at a raffle for a good cause. $20 of tickets and didn’t expect to win, so it was a fun surprise
5- did trivia night with my son and his gf. I bought dinner so not free, but several hours of fun ( and I won!) AND time with my grown kids is always priceless!
@Vallie D, this may as well be my goals - time with family, piccata anything, good deals on home landscaping items, wine and food. Maybe you should purchase a Lotto ticket.
I think your birthday freebies are lovely and well deserved treats.
Little things for us this week.
1. Hubby figured out how to remove a broken cellular blind and install the identical one we bought on sale. Thankful for all the copies of receipts provided by the previous owners which made finding the replacement so much easier.
2. Hubby also recalled a section of the sink where the caulk was moldy using some from his stash in the garage.
3. I altered 3 tops so they fit well. Just effort and thread I already had.
4. Tried out a new to me Pilates YouTube series and like it a lot as a supplement to the once a week one I pay for. It is slow going to get stronger at 75 but I’m trying.
5. Avoiding buying anything at a neighbors big moving yard sale and didn’t even bring any of the free items home. I decided if it wasn’t on my shopping wish list already then I didn’t need it.
1. Snipped my chives and started chive vinegar with the buds. Threw a few into sald last night.
2. Bought coffee cake from Flashfood for a ladies tea.
3. Saturday I had to send compnay equipment back to my company and went to slightly larger city to do that, go to the bread start, pick up a FF order, ad went to luch with a gift card. I am back to doing errands on a route.
4. Planning a large stock up this weekend and started a list.
5. I got flowers 2 weeks ago from Trader Joes and yes most are still alive.
Bonus: sorted through last years seeds and used radish and spinach seeds. Crossing my fingers they come up.
@Amy cheapohmom,
I make chive vinegar too! I love the pale rosy/purple color it turns!
No frugal list because mine would be the same as the previous many weeks. But here’s a question, a comment, and an I wonder:
1. I don’t understand all the birthday freebies. Does this happen because you have lots of chain stores and you sign up for emails or texts or you put an app on your phone or you buy a certain amount of stuff and accumulate points? (I’m a simple country girl without access to chain stores unless I drive 30 miles to the Big Town.)
2. I never noticed before that Cuddlduds have no “e”. I’ve only heard the word, never seen a package.
3. If protein powder is made from whey, would it be advantageous to simply drink the whey that I drain from my yogurt? I save it for bread making but rarely eat bread anymore (sob).
Oh yes, it's because I am on mailing lists and have apps and such. And this makes sense for me because I have a zillion stores within a few miles of my house; if I had to drive 30 miles like you, I wouldn't do this!
The whey from yogurt does have nutritional value, but I guess the advantage of the powder is that it doesn't come with all that liquid so it's easier to mix into things.
Good haul on birthday freebies!
Frugal things---
● I ordered $40 takeout ((2) $10 big burger combos & 2 for $25 sizzler dinners) from Applebees to get 20 free boneless wings (NFL Draft promo), which was 2 meals each for teen & myself
● earned 3% cash back on my credit card for restaurant/take out
Frugal fail---
● got email that Applebees started buy $50 get $10 bonus giftcard after I placed & paid for order
Frugal things---
● saved $0.10/gallon on gas ($2.89) & earned $2 rewards
● didn't buy anything from Wayfair during Way Days Sale because Menards new Spring outdoor furniture has lounge chairs & bench I like for much cheaper everyday. Now will wait for them to go on sale at Menards.
● FREE tote bag (TMOBILE REWARD)
● finished teen graduation photo collage & only cost me tape. Free photos from previous rewards, reused old (originally was expensive but got on sale) frame I liked but burned the picture that was in it.
● picked up boneless sirloin tip roast $5.99/pound & cut into steaks & put in freezer
● FREE Hallmark card (graduation)
● FREE Hallmark card (graduation) when buy 3 cards (Mother's day)
● used Hallmark rewards towards cards
Belated birthday greetings, Kristen.
It was a week of both frugal wins and frugal fails --
DH and I took our grandchildren to the free Healthy Kid Festival at our YMCA. Swimming, putt-putt, a bounce house, and an indoor obstacle course. We went out for ice cream afterwards which was not free or particularly healthy. We all had fun, and the kiddos then took 3 hour naps in the afternoon.
I am trying to eat all the weird odds and ends that I've found in the freezer. Last night, I used the black-eye peas that I froze near the New Year. Tonight I'll use the small bit of corned beef that I froze on St. Patrick's Day in hash. I also just took out a couple of chicken carcasses to defrost for broth.
I have a consultation with the genetic counselor this afternoon. I chose a phone consultation which will save time and money.
I repotted some curb-picked plants that I donated to the Garden Club Plant Sale. These sold and the funds will go towards garden maintenance at our club's building.
I did all the usual things – – batched errands, brewed my own coffee, read, library books, paid my bills online, drank primarily water.
Wishing all peace, good health, and prosperity
1. I had to spend 7 hours at the hospital for tests (which confirmed what I already knew, but confirmation is confirmation) so I packed myself a lunch and several snacks. There was a lovely outdoor courtyard that I spent time in eating lunch.
2. We unexpectedly ended up with playoff hockey tickets over the weekend. We did pay for parking and a couple drinks, but I had lunch before we left for the game and made dinner at home after the game. I was also able to offer two of the tickets to friends so I spent the afternoon chatting with my bestie.
3. I picked up a few whisky barrel planters at Aldi because I was surprised at how cheap they were! We have a new backyard set up, and this will mean I can plant some flowers are herbs this year!
4. I enjoyed an audio book from the library while completing two puzzles from the library this week.
5. My husband requested to see Interstellar in a movie theatre for his birthday and matinee prices were only $6. It was a great way to celebrate my favorite guy!
I also had birthday freebies this month!
Free car wash at one of the local "monthly" subscription places that are popping up everywhere.
Jersey Mike's added enough points to my app for a free sub! (I love that they do this as there is no "expiration" - you just get a free sub whenever you want it!)
I have a 20% off birthday coupon for Beall's, was in there once a few weeks ago and did not find anything. It expires tomorrow - so may not get used....just like yesterdays "spaving" discussion, sometimes its just not worth it.
PDQ added a $10 off coupon to my app - so I will be getting some free chicken strips with that!
1. Got my wife to clean out the closet with me and we are donating a lot of stuff. A couple pieces are nice enough to list online so we will try that.
2. Repaired my wind chime with some spray paint and some new cords.
3. Target had 70% off all Easter stuff. Nothing was essential but it's nice to have some candy and stuff for cheap.
4. Took a little trip with the family and while the trip wasn't exactly frugal (we were okay with spending money to have some family fun) but I found ways to be frugal. Our hotel was next to a Walgreens and we needed a few things like snacks, a USB charging cable etc. I looked up on Google Maps and saw t
5. Saving mental energy by not flipping out over tariffs. I didn't panic buy. I didn't stockpile. I'm just continuing to do what I need to do.
Not very frugal, lately, as two sons have outgrown all their shorts . No luck at thrift stores.
However, my frugal win is I got reimbursed by the Post Office for the damaged box of Easter candy I sent to my daughter! I credit the lovely post office worker whom I talked to on the phone at the local post office. I did have to copy ads from Target with the candy types and prices to submit with my claim, but the internet makes that easy. I got enough back to cover the cost of the candy and shipping. Whoot! So it never hurts to try!
I did send my daughter a second box, wrapped with so much tape that nothing short of a machine gun could break it open.
A 180 question exam, oh my gosh, that would make my head spin. You rock!
I have mostly not redeemed my birthday coupons as they are not good deals. For example, at the thrift store I had a 20% off a $50 purchase; but I can go on a Tuesday and get the regular seniors discount of less 30%. I have a 20% off coupon at the bookstore but I rarely purchase books from them; I either get them from the library or I purchase at the thrift store for a much lesser amount. I had a coupon for $5 off at the local consignment store, but I rarely find clothing items there as they mostly seem to cater to the 18 to 30 year olds, think fast fashion. I did get one thing, which was my birthday gift from Sephora, it is a freebie.
I have a very unfrugal thing:we put 5 new windows into the house (house built circa 1985). Total cost upwards of $14K. But I broke it into 3 payments and put them on my credit card so that I can accrue zillions of points (which I can redeem for stuff like groceries, or at the local drugstore/ beauty store). After each payment, I immediately paid off the amount in full to zero out my credit card, and get my credit limit reinstated, so I'm claiming that as a frugal thing. I am thankful that I am a saver, and that I had the money to be able to do this. HB is also a saver, so for that I am extremely thankful.
1. I purchased 6 packages of chicken breast, 2 packages of ground beef, and 2 packages of Italian sausages at Aldi for 50% off. Don't worry there was plenty more for other people!
2. I used the ham bone from our Easter ham to make a ham, potato, carrot, and bean soup for my lunch this week. I made muffins for my kids using homemade applesauce. I made baked French toast, using leftover bagels and half and half that needed using. I made croutons to go on chicken salads, using rye bread my mom gave us. The chicken salads will also use up the hard boiled Easter eggs.
3. I took a Nielsen survey, which will earn me $11
4. I picked up some clothes off Buy Nothing
5. After insurance paid their portion, I paid the bill for my son's braces in full which saved us 5%.
That bundt cake looks amazing, I need to sign up for their birthday offer for next year!
Otherwise, I also had trouble finding time to use my birthday offers last month.
1. Used up leftovers very well this week: Made tacos out of leftover Easter lamb, and used up quesadillas and nachos out of leftover taco fixings. My son brought home some grilled meat and veggies that he cooked up with a friend, which I also incorporated in the quesadillas. Also, made homemade rolls out of leftover oatmeal.
2. Bought a camera second hand on eBay for my son's birthday, and put in a slightly lower price than the asking price. Also bought some books on eBay as a gift.
3. Used herbs such as oregano and chives from the garden.
4. Constructed a stone garden planter from old cinderblocks that had been sitting in our yard for years.
5. Resisted doing takeout a couple of times this week, managed just fine with quick pasta and salads.
My brain is 100% garden focused right now, so I can’t remember anything else.
1) A lot of my cedar beds are rotted so much the corners are gone. Their usable life span was much shorter than expected, so I wanted to try a couple high-quality metal garden beds. I found a source that was half the sale price elsewhere. It would actually have cost me more to rebuild the beds exactly as I had originally. Hopefully, the metal beds will last longer!
2) I potted up my tomato seedlings to plastic juice bottles I’d saved. It’s a little work sawing off the top and drilling drainage holes, but they are free containers.
3) I’ve been doing my annual collection of free 5 gallon buckets from the bakery. My tomato and pepper buckets last a few years, so every summer I always need a few replacements.
4) I did an experiment with all my old seeds this year, labeling everything and seeing what sprouted. It keeps me from buying more seeds than I need. I had some 10 year old melon seeds where 75% sprouted and have already grown into seedlings! It will be interesting to see how those grow this summer. Gardening is always a fun science experiment for me!
Frugal.
Earning 5 percent from my credit card on grocery trips this month. Always pay it off.
Bought a 7 dollar ham after Easter. It was marked at 32 dollars. We got five meals and the bone is in the freezer. I just cooked it with a can of beer in the slow cooker.
Cutting way back on annuals this year. Checked out the free seed library at the public library.
Been making iced coffee at home.
Continue to use Kanopy and Libby for entertainment.
Cannot wait to see Kristen in her white dress for pinning!!
Happy birthday month Kristen and good job collecting all the freebies, which you so richly deserve. My opinion is that you should buy a brand new dress for your pinning, you want to look and feel your best, and it is a very big moment in your nursing school culmination!
I have had a frugal/not frugal week, but that’s how it goes.
I offered to bring a fruit platter to my son’s house for belated Easter. That turned out to be a very expensive venture, BUT, everything I bought was on sale, it was all eaten, not a blueberry left, and everyone loved it. I call it a win, and better than a sugary dessert.
My husband gave a bottle of maple syrup to a friend. The friend came by next day with two lovely rib eye steaks from the beef they had butchered. We grilled them last night, so delicious. A very good trade!
Made coffee at home everyday (per usual), drinking lots of water from our reusable vessels, eating from the freezer, used up ends of cheese to make a very tasty Mac and cheese.
The library has a table of gardening books and packages of seed for the taking. Got a pack of carrot seeds and wax bean seeds.
Picked up Easter treats for the grands for 80% off since we had Easter a week late.
Bought (pricey) new sneakers for both of us for our upcoming trip, but mine were 40% off. Sent receipts to insurance for reimbursement.
Not frugal, but may be frugal in the future, my husband is building raised garden bed to make it easier on our sore knees. The materials aren’t cheap, but we have good soil and compost to put in it, and will be enclosed, so hopefully the deer won’t eat every single bit of it!
I don't have any extra subscription TV. I watch whatever is free on my husband's Prime, any other free programming and Kanopoly through my library card. You get 30 points a month to use. Programming can be from 1 point (for a movie) to 5 points (for a series).
1. Compared prices on coffee and bought a large can at about 37c an ounce, compared to more than a dollar on most major brands (I bought store brand).
2. Hung out laundry, drank coffee at home, leftovers for lunch, etc. --the usual.
3. Picked up several sale/markdown items at Safeway. The 4/$20 deal is pretty good; $5 per package of meat, and I buy the heaviest ones I can find. $137 in groceries for the week.
4. Sent out two thrifted birthday cards today.
5. Continuing to file, sort, shred my office files. I have enough file folders and labels to refile everything. The shreddies go in the compost or green bin. Waste paper gets recycled. So many envelopes! I wish they would stop sending them. Even when I am on the paperless plan, I still get a ton of window envelopes.
Happy birthday, Kristen!
There are some fabulous eyelet dresses on the Walmart website that I think you can get in white. I especially live eyelet fabric!
Have you tried the protein powder in a smoothie ? We made our smoothies with plain Greek yogurt and protein powder mixed in with the fruit and almond milk. It is very yummy.
1) We've been working through a whole house clean out and reorganization for the last month or so. It is so much work. Ugh. But the payoff has been a much more comfortable living and working space. We have also worked hard to keep our organizing supplies expenses down. Last week I did buy a couple of under bed storage bags to replace one bin that was broken and to upgrade our Lego storage situation (the Lego now live in a large hard plastic storage container that was holding clothing). I have so far resisted purchasing any other new organization supplies. I am instead making do with what we have.
2) I did a big Goodwill drop off yesterday of things resulting from our clean out. While I was there I peaked in just to see what they have. I bought a paperback book, a shelf for our daughter's room (I was hoping to find a cheap but cute shelf we could hang in her now organized room!), and my favorite purchase of all . . . a hand upholstery steamer. I have wanted one of these hand steamers for a while to clean our car's upholstery and our daughter's bedroom rug. (Both the car and rug have some age on them, so being able to keep them clean will keep any of us from imaging that we need a new rug or car--a long term frugal play.) The $75-$100 price tag was enough to make me put off this purchase for a year waiting for a cheaper alternative. Lo and behold! There was one for $35 in Goodwill that looks new.
3) During the same errand when I dropped off the Goodwill I also dropped expired medicines in the bin at CVS on the way and stopped at Kid to Kid. At Kid to Kid I dropped off items for credit, which I exchanged for clothes for our daughter: a pair of shorts, a dress, and a pair of river shoes. I need to try the shoes on her again today to make sure they fit. I will carry anything back that we don't keep. If these items work out then we are all set on summer clothes.
4) My lunch included produce we needed to eat up and pantry items that came from my mother in law's free food stash. I also made another batch of protein powder pudding. I also am not a protein powder person, but it was free from my mother in law, and I could stand to eat more protein. After a lot of experimentation, I am finally starting to put a dent in the stash.
5) Instead of meeting a colleague over lunch or even over coffee, I suggested we just meet in his office. We had a lovely conversation catching up and comparing notes, and I didn't even have to spend $3 on an overpriced cup of tea. I even parked in the stupid $2/parking that is one million miles away from my office.
Happy Birthday! Those are great birthday finds!
My Fugal 5
- Borrowed the 'Sound of Music,' my mother-in-law's favorite movie to watch with her and the girls & borrowed a few games from the library I knew she's like to host game night as part of her birthday week celebration .
- Hosted my mother-in-law's 80th birthday at my home;
Brought decorations, balloons, party favors and cards from the Dollar Tree;
Cooked spaghetti, garlic bread, and made prepared Cesar salad at home;
My brother and sister in law drop by as a surprise and brought along a chocolate cake;
Spent time together at the museum, one of her favorite places in the world, which is free;
Put together a dedication wall for her on Facebook and showed her birthday wishes
and pictures of her through our projector;
Took my own pictures of the event through my phone.
- Took my girl to a Lego Build event at the library and batch run errands at the same time by picking up crib bedding offered through our BuyNothing group, getting my glasses refitted for free at the eye glass place, and depositing a couple checks into my checking account.
- For garbage pickup week, we cleaned out our garage and house so that saved us a trip to the garbage dump but I also found a few things I picked up for free like a board for puzzling, a big container to put our excess things in instead of cardboard boxes, a few lifejacket for kids, and a bike seat to replace the broken one on a bike my kids have.
- My husband build me wooden spacers with wood her already had to put behind my garbage cans so it doesn't hit and scrap the kitchen cabinets when in use.
Also,
- Been eating at home or through food in the fridge as much as we can.
- Got some muffins and bagels that were leftover from the food pantry.
- My mother-in-law treated us out to an all you can eat Chinese buffet.
- Mended holey knew pants for my girls. Just need them to last through
the chilly season till they can wear shorts.
- My Amazon finds:
~ Like new fridge water filters in bulk at a discount price on Amazon.
I won't need another one till 3 years later.
~ An Easter dress for my middle girl & A Christmas dress for my oldest because they've both outgrown their's. Got great deals for them b/c they're out of season.
~ Got a butter dish at the lowest price ever according to camelcamelcamel.
- My husband has been fixing the brakes on both our vehicles. It's been very costly but so much more less than taking it to the mechanics.
- Forgot to mention that I got a free loaf of oatmeal bread and raisin bread from my dear friend for watering her plants while she's gone for these 2 weeks.