After Christmas Sales

If you enjoy shopping at the mall, but you barely do it because of a lack of money, this is the week to throw caution to the wind and head back to the mall.  Mall stores are all but giving away items this week.  If you want to stock up on decorations and gift wrap for next year, now is the time.  However, if there were items on your list that Santa forgot to bring you, pretty much every store is having an amazing sale.
3 stores that are having their semi-annual sales right now are:

Yankee Candle
Victoria's Secret
Bath & Body Works

Pretty much, everything is going to be on sale and clearance items will be dirt cheap.  While you are at it, you might want to drop by New York & Company or Aeropostale since they are both boasting about incredibly low prices.

Now is the time to stock up, even if you usually can't shop at the mall.  This week is you week!  So grab your new gift cards or cash and go!

Target Electronic Deals for December 11 - 17, 2011

Ah, Christmas is coming!  You can smell the lovely scents of gingerbread, pine, and desperation in the air.  Retailers are desperate to get your business.  Shoppers are desperate to save money.  Let the sales begin!

Although it seems as if Walmart was bringing in the most customers and desperation this holiday season with their Black Friday sales, never count Target out of the competition.  Target is going to have some amazing sales on electronics this week.

One incredible deal I would love to take advantage of if I were allowed to spend money on myself, is a Philips portable DVD player for just $42.  I have several items in my home from Philips and they are a great brand.  The DVD player regularly sells for $85.99, so $42 is an amazing deal.  Just yesterday, my electric was out for hours.  I sure wished I had a portable DVD player that ran on batteries yesterday!

Another super deal I wish I could have is a Compaq laptop for $233!  The regular price is $379.99, so once again, this is an incredible deal.  It even has a DVD burner!  Oh, how I want that laptop!  Target, why do you tempt me so?

So if you are in the market for a DVD player or laptop, looks like Target is the place to go this week.  For me, I will just sit and dream. 

Dollar Tree Has the Best Stocking Stuffers

For this Christmas, saving money is in style more than anything else.  Why pay a lot of Christmas gifts if you don't have to do so?  The best place to go this Christmas is the Dollar Tree.  Not only can you get some great generic gifts for co-workers, friends, and relatives, the Dollar Tree has the best deal on stocking stuffers.


You can choose from a large assortment of stocking stuffers at the Dollar Tree, such as:


Small boxes of chocolates
Candy canes
Thin mints
Small stuffed animals
Solar dancing penguins and snowmen
Crayons
Small books
Puzzle books
Puzzles
Coloring books
Toy cars
Baby items
Hair items
And much more!


The best part about everything on the list is it is all just one dollar per item!  I found myself picking up items and thinking, "This is really only a dollar?  That is amazing!"


Also, if you are interested in purchasing some low-budget decorations, the Dollar Tree is the place for you, too.  You can get garland, tinsel, mini tinsel trees, ornaments, etc.  There are also a number of different options on gift bags, wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and Christmas cards.  Everything you need to start your Christmas shopping off right is at the Dollar Tree.  I would highly recommend getting there early before all the good stuff gets sold out. 


Just remember, every item is just $1!  And more importantly, you don't even realize it yet, but you totally need a solar dancing snowman - trust me on this one!

For more information and recommendations, check out The Dollar Store is THE Store for Stocking Stuffers!

Best Electronic Black Friday Deals (I've Seen So Far)

For the last few days, stores have been going crazy posting their ads and a number of different sales papers have been included in newspapers.  Personally, I hate Black Friday and would prefer to never walk into a store during a Black Friday sale.  However, the deals are pretty good.  If you are a serious bargain shopper and every penny counts, Black Friday is going to be your day.  If you are looking for electronics this year, I've seen some pretty decent sales.

Walmart is really selling some great buys for Black Friday... you just have to get there at midnight or you are taking a chance they will run out.  I am most impressed with an HP laptop computer for $248 and a Philips 4GB MP3 player for $19.88.  Both of the items are excellent brands, and those are dirt cheap prices.  I personally have a Philips MP3 player just like it, but I would like to upgrade to more GB.  This is an excellent deal and I am honestly debating dealing with the torture of Black Friday to get one.  After, it even comes in a bright pink color!

A store I never get to usually shop at since it is not in the area is Kmart.  I do wish there was one nearby because they are also offering an outstanding electronics deal this Black Friday.  You can buy a Sylvania 7 inch netbook for just $79.99!  Now, I am no netbook expert, but I know a great price when I see one.  Even if it does not have all the awesome features so netbooks may offer, dude, it is basically 80 bucks.

An amazing deal HH Gregg is offering this Black Friday is a 32 inch Toshiba HDTV for basically $199.99.  Now that is pretty impressive!  It does look like you will have to mail in a $50 rebate to get that low price, but that is incredible for that brand and that size.  The ad states there will be a minimum of 50 per store.  However, something tells me you'd better be standing at the door at midnight for that one.

So to all of you that are willing to wake up at the crack of dawn, or just never go to sleep and hit the stores at midnight, some awesome electronics await you.  Happy shopping and good luck!

Christmas Shopping Time Even If You Don't Like It

The Christmas shopping season is coming whether you like it or not.  So why not just accept it and plan ahead of time? 

If you want to have some stress-free Christmas shopping this holiday season, it would be a good idea to plan ahead.  Always remember, you can save more money and stay within your budget if you remember to:

• Write down a list
• Write down a budget
• Scope out newspapers and sales papers for great deals
• Wait until some of the pre-Black Friday or Holiday Sales begin
• Plot your strategy accordingly

When all else fails, you can purchase small gifts and give gift cards with them.  You can also order a number of important items online so you don't have to be frustrated with real shopping.  Don't forget to check out Cyber Monday deals.  Many online retailers have great bargains and free shipping on Cyber Monday.  It never hurts to check out sites ahead of time before Monday even begins so you know which sites to visit on the big shopping day.

For more shopping tips, check out: Stress-Free Christmas Shopping Advice

The Baltimore Sun Weekend Flyers Nov. 5 - 6 2011

This weekend, everyone is starting to brace themselves for the Christmas shopping rush.  Considering how bad the economy is right now, many stores are doing whatever it takes to win over shoppers this Christmas.  Obviously, stores are going to have to use some desperate measures to bring in revenue.

One store that is not taking chances is Target.  Not only did Target include a sales paper, it also has a toy catalog or "wish book" included in the newspaper this weekend.  The book has nothing but toys.  Also, it features a number of coupons for many of the toys in the book.  The prices are good until Thanksgiving.  Who knows just how low those prices will go beyond that?

Bed Bath & Beyond went in a different direction and focused on all the Thanksgiving products one might need.  Their flyer includes a 20% off coupon.  There are some basic items for the home featured in the flyer; however, the focus is on cooking utensils, pots, pans, roasters, plates, and other items needed for a nice Thanksgiving dinner.

Still, there were the usual sales papers and coupons.  Nothing too out of the ordinary as far as coupons go.  Were the sales papers a little thicker this time?  You bet.  Are they going to get even thicker and offer more deals soon?  You know it.  Everyone is going to compete for customers this year.  The stores with the best bargains will surely win.

Target Gift Card Offer

If you are interested in getting a $5 gift card at Target, you should pick up your local newspaper this weekend.  The Baltimore Sun has 3 packets of coupons this weekend.  In one packet, you will find an offer to get a $5 gift card at Target.  You need to buy $25 worth of Kimberly-Clark products at Target to qualify. 

The list of qualifying brands includes:

• Cottonelle
• GoodNites
• Huggies
• Kleenex
• Pull-Ups
• Scott

• Viva

Get It For Free at the Library

Many people are trying to figure out ways to save money.  One of the best ways to do so is not paying for anything you can get for free.  In just about any county, you can get a library card for free.  What type of things can you get with that card?  You can check out books for free, usually put a hold on a book you want for free, and use the library computers for free.  If you are someone that does not use the internet that much, you may want to consider not paying for it at all and just go to the library whenever you need to do a quick search.  Library computers usually have more up-to-date software than home computers anyway.

You can also check out CDs and DVDs at the library for a minimal cost or no cost at all.  Sure you can't usually check them out for the same length of time you can check out a book, but you can still see a movie or listen to music at a low price or no cost at all, depending on your library. 

If you enjoy shopping, but can't afford to do that anymore, the library is perfect for that, too.  You can roam around the aisles looking for books you might like.  You can get the same feeling you get when shopping, except this time it is free.  You can look for interesting titles, see what is new, and get the thrill of going home with some new "purchases" even if you can't keep them.  So what are you waiting for?  The library is just sitting there and there is money to be saved by going there.

The Layaway Returns

Back by popular demand, many stores have brought back the layaway plan.  For those that have never used it before, you can put an item on layaway by paying a small amount for the product.  You can then come back and get the item later on when you have more money.  Many stores had stopped using the layaway system when the economy was doing better.  For this Christmas season, many stores understand the economy is still not so great and the layaway is back.

Kmart and Sears have still been offering the layaway plan for a while now.  Walmart is obviously not going to be outdone by either of those stores, so they are also offering a layaway option for the holiday season.  I also just found out Toys R Us is offering layaways this Christmas, too.

So if you were ever a fan of the layaway plan, now you know where to shop this holiday season: Kmart, Sears, Toys R Us, and Walmart.

$5 Movie Bin at Walmart

If you are looking to save some money, but you'd like to be entertained, now is the time to shop at Walmart.  Currently, they are running a $5 movie special.  You can get many different DVDs for just $5 a piece.  And no, I am not talking about the crummy movies no one wants to watch.  Now is the time to stock up on some favorites.

Some of the horror movies now available for $5 on DVD at Walmart are:

The Shining
Halloween
Poltergeist
Saw
Scream
Scream 2
Jeepers Creepers 1 & 2 set

So if you would like to watch some good horror movies this year for Halloween at a low price, you need to visit Walmart.  I am sure the best movies are going fast!

There are also some family favorites like Milo & Otis and The Sandlot, but honestly, I did not pay as much attention to them.  After all, Halloween is coming up and you need to stock up on your scary movies.

Nutella - No So Expensive After All

My newest food obsession is now Nutella.  If you are not familiar with it, it is a hazelnut and cocoa spread.  Instead of using peanut butter on a sandwich, you can use Nutella.

For many years, I wanted to try Nutella but I was never able to because of the price.  Finally, Nutella's price has gone down and it is reasonable to buy.  Now that I've tasted it, I can't ever imagine how I lived without it.  The taste is very similar to the chocolate and hazelnut candy called Ferraro Rocher. 

The best thing about Nutella is you can use it for sandwiches.  I make a Nutella and jelly sandwich many days for work now.  This is perfect if you are bored with peanut butter and jelly.  When I am very broke, I find myself eating only peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for work each day.  This is not by choice; this is only because it is all I can afford.

If you are in the same position stuck and bored with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, I recommend giving Nutella a try.  It might really help your boring sandwich become more interesting.  For now, the price of Nutella is just under $3 at Walmart and $3 at Target.  Yes, that is slightly more expensive than peanut butter, but it is worth it if you might actually enjoy lunch each day.  Also, sometimes you even come across $1 off coupons for Nutella, so it makes the price even better.  So give Nutella a try!

Dress for Halloween with No Money and No Effort

Spending as little money as possible at Halloween is always a great goal.  However, sometimes it can be tough doing just that.  How can you have a creative costume without much money?  Even better, how can you create a costume without putting much effort into it?

The simple answer is: create a '90s Gen X outfit this year for Halloween.  I know what you are thinking... the '80s were so much more fun!  Well, sure they were.  They were also more expensive.  People took the time to have nice hair and cute outfits.  If you are broke, you need to go with a grunge look.  Since you are broke, you will also not have a tough time looking bummed out or full of angst.  You are probably already feeling that way, except unlike the 1990s, your feelings are now totally justified.  Dealing with this economy will bring anyone down!

So check out: Creating Your Own 1990s Halloween Costume.  It features tips and some YouTube videos from the past that might just inspire you. 

Baltimore Sun Coupons for August 27 - 28, 2011

Ah, what a special weekend with the whole Hurricane Irene experience.   I hope wherever you are reading this, you are safe and well prepared for the storm.  Since you are going to be spending some time at home this weekend, you may want to grab a Baltimore Sun weekend edition.  This weekend is an especially nice weekend for coupons.  The Baltimore Sun I picked up this morning has 3 packets of coupons.

Some of the best coupons included in this weekend's Baltimore Sun are:

• $1 off Tropicana
• Several L'Oreal coupons
• $1.50 off Kibbles 'n Bits for your dog
• Nature Valley and Quaker granola bar coupons
• Zyrtec and Claritin coupons
• Numerous Kellogg's coupons
• Tide and All detergent coupons
• Several cleaning supplies coupons
• $1.00 off Colgate
• $2.00 off Energizer batteries
• Duracell battery coupons (2 types)
• Feminine product coupons
• Dunkin Donuts coupons
• Prilosec, Nyquil, and other medication coupons
• And much, much more!

So if you need something to keep you entertained this weekend due to a lack of electricity, take the time to shuffle through all the coupons.  Also, there are CVS, Target, and Kohl's salespapers, to name a few.

Stay safe during the entire Hurricane Irene experience!

Now is the Time to Apply for Seasonal Positions

It is the end of August now and the summer is coming to a close.  The long, happy sunny days are leaving us.  We will now have to deal with the cold of autumn and winter.  This means paying more to heat our homes. Also, using the washer and dryer more since we will all be wearing more layers of clothes.  Plus, we must make plans for holiday shopping.  All of this means we need more money.

On an upnote, this is the perfect time of year to gather job applications for stores.  Many of you are already working full-time, but it is just not bringing in enough money.  Now is the time to work a second job.  I know it is depressing to be forced to do that, but you can work two jobs at once during the holiday season and not go crazy.  It is a good time to fill out the applications, since you can return them in the beginning of September.

Many retailers like to hire at the beginning of September so the staff will be properly trained by the time the Christmas rush comes in.  The down side to this, is yes, you will be working during the Christmas rush.  The plus side is, you will be making extra money and probably getting a really nice discount.  When you work at a store that gives a nice discount, it is perfect for Christmas shopping. 

If you are currently unemployed, this is also a good option for you.  Many retailers will hire you for part-time, seasonal work for the holidays, but if you show a desire to work more hours, they will probably have more to give you as it gets closer to Christmas.  If they really like you, they may keep you on for part-time work after Christmas.  Certainly this can be a difficult time for you if you've never worked in retail before or you are looking for a better job, but keep in mind many employers want to see you are working rather than staying on unemployment.  It might not look perfect on a resume, but working in retail looks better than nothing.

So if you've decided you want (or need) extra money for the winter months, make sure to start gathering your applications at the end of August.  Start returning them in September, but make sure to talk to a manager when you return the applications.  It helps to show up with a smiling face and make a great impression.  Good luck to you!

Save Money with Houseplants You Can't Kill

Everyone likes the look of a nice houseplant or two in their home.  Unfortunately, one cannot always keep them alive.  It is always disappointing when you spend time and money on a plant, only to kill it in less than a few months.  The best thing to do it get hardy houseplants.

For houseplant suggestions, check out: Houseplants You Can't Kill

Of course, you can pretty much kill any houseplant if you are outright trying to do so.  But some plants are just easier to care for than others.  Ask around and see if your friends have cuttings for plants that are hardy plants.  Maybe you can get a pothos plant cutting from them, and start growing your own pothos.  For that matter, since it is such an easy plant to keep, you may be able to start giving or selling (extra cash!) cuttings to others. 

If all else fails and every plant seems to die, see if you can buy some secondhand artificial plants.  You will save yourself a lot of grief.

Just Buy What You Need

For those of you that are big fans of scoping out sales and using coupons, you can save lots of money.  This weekend I bought $80 worth of groceries for $45. This is quite excellent for me, even though some "extreme couponers" would surely frown upon it.  I am sure they would be able to buy $800 worth of groceries for $45.  However, I try not to compare myself to others.  I feel like I achieved a great deal.

What you have to consider when making "extreme couponing" purchases is if you will actually use what you are buying.  Certainly it is a great deal to buy 10 jars of pasta sauce at once if it is on sale and you have coupons, but make sure to check the expiration date and consider how much pasta you actually eat.  If you do not even really like pasta and you might only use 4 jars, you have actually wasted money.  It does not matter if you bought 10 for 50 cents a piece.  If 6 go to waste, you just lost $3.

This sounds like a relatively simple concept until a person becomes obsessed with finding the best bargains.  Suddenly, it is not about what is practical.  It is about getting whatever is the cheapest.  Aside from losing money by looking for bargains, you also need to be realistic about what you like to eat. 

For example, I like to eat junk food.  I am constantly trying to eat healthier.  So say one day there is a great sale on apples.  That is perfect.  Apples are a healthy, wonderful snack.  I can buy a few apples and eat them during the week.  However, if even just one bag of candy goes into the cart, good bye apples.  Chances are, the apples will get tossed to the side and I will eat candy all week.  Now, the apples, even though they were on sale, will go to waste.

When shopping, be realistic about what you will really eat.  If you are trying to be healthy, buy healthy foods that are on sale, but DO NOT buy junk food.  Junk food will lure you away from the healthy food every time.  Right now, I have a bag of what was once delicious broccoli in my fridge.  Now, it looks terrible and must be thrown out.  Lesson learned - buy frozen broccoli even if it is more expensive.  Frozen broccoli lasts much longer.  You lose money when you are constantly throwing stuff out.

Free Trial Memberships

Would you like to join a gym?  Do you need to get some inspiration when it comes to exercising?  Or perhaps your shower has stopped working and you need a place to wash up.   Well, you are in luck.

Many gyms offer a 10 day trial period to give their gym a try.  You can sign up online or go in person.  Even if there is no free trial period, there is usually a discounted rate for a new member.  One of my friends just simply registers at new gyms periodically and gets the 10 day free trial.  Once the 10 days end, she exercises on her own or just moves on to a new gym.  Certainly you may run out of gyms after a while, but at least you can decide on whether you really liked one and if maybe you can afford their price.

If all else fails, at least you have a place to take shower, like say, if your water is now turned off for repairs.  Showering is important and joining a gym is starting to sound appealing right about now.

Food as a Gift

If you are looking for a practical and inexpensive gift for this holiday season or birthdays, I would like to suggest giving a gift basket or gift bag full of food.  I am not talking about the fancy baskets with cheese and wine either.  I am talking about a gift with food that people really need.  If you are broke, chances are, some of the people around you are low on money, too.

Some people may get offended if you try to give them food; however, if it is given as a cute present, a person who really needs it will probably be grateful.  You could even throw in a low-priced gift card or a fun item just for good measure. 

When giving a practical gift basket, make sure to include items that are non-perishable.  You should include cans of soup, rice, pasta, pasta sauce, and you may even want to give items like detergent, shampoo, etc.  In these difficult economic times, many people appreciate the help. 

For more ideas and information click on: It's OK to Give Food as a Gift

Shop at Safeway

I am not sure if Safeway grocery stores are located all over the U.S., but if you live near one, you should visit it this weekend.  If possible, grab a Safeway sales paper before going.  There are a number of sale items and coupons available in the paper this weekend.  You can buy everything from detergent to cherries at a really low price.

So what you are you doing still reading this blog?  You'd better get up and go to Safeway right now!  You don't want to miss the opportunity to buy cereal for $1.88 do you?  Didn't think so!

Shop for Your Home Now Part II

I am currently on Walmart's website right now and I have to say, they have some great deals.  Once again, Walmart is trying to appeal to the back to college shopper and there are a number of cute items for the home at a discount price. 

A futon for only $99! http://www.walmart.com/ip/your-zone-loft-collection-mini-futon-lounger-black-silver/13275171

Check out a cute 5 gallon fish tank for only $26: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Hawkeye-5-gal-Tank-Aquarium/14660258

End tables starting at only $14: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Parsons-End-Table-Black/16451428

A floor lamp for just $12.97: http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Combo-Floor-Lamp-Silver/16523676

An awesome round shag rug for $19.96! http://www.walmart.com/ip/your-zone-round-shag-rug-racy-pink/14223951

I don't know about you, but I NEED a hot pink round shag rug in my bedroom.  I am so there!

Shop for Your Home Now

As I've said before, now is the time of year to do some shopping for your home.  If you need a cheap vacuum, now is the time.  If you need a new comforter, run out to your closest Walmart or Target.  Do you need an area rug?  This is the time!

I say this because it is "back to college" season at the stores.  When students go away to college, they need plenty of items.  This is even for returning college students since every dorm and apartment is different.  Stores use this opportunity to cash in.  Most parents want their sons and daughters to be comfortable in college, and they are willing to buy plenty for them.  College students also usually work the whole summer so they can buy what they need for the dorm.  This is perfect for stores suffering in this economy.

On sale at Target this week are vacuums, comforters, a futon, lamps, office chairs, shelves, storage containers, a cookware set, blenders, a microwave, a long mirror priced at only $4, a mini-fridge, and blankets.  Basically, they are selling items for the dorm at a dirt cheap price.  These items work equally as well in your home.  Also, the colors are brighter and trendier since it is designed for college students.  So keep an eye out for your Target sales paper this week and start shopping!

Atlantic City Bus Trip

As I've said before, I believe everyone deserves a vacation and there are some vacations that are quite affordable.  I went on an Atlantic City bus trip yesterday.  It was a great way to get away from the computer (yes, I know - amazing!) and have fun.  This is an annual trip sponsored by my apartment building.  I live in Baltimore and it the only cost was $25!  Imagine, an entire day trip from Baltimore to Atlantic City for just $25.

I realize that gambling is not for everyone, but a $20 gambling voucher came along with the trip.  Basically, my goal is to always try to win back what I spent on the trip.  This time, I happened to win $85.  So not only did the trip pay for itself, but I made money.  I also did not spend anything beyond the voucher.  It is important to remember if you go on your own low-budget Atlantic City trip, do not spend beyond the voucher.  If you come out ahead, excellent!  If not, hey, you just got a trip for $25 - enjoy it!  There are plenty of awesome bus trip deals like that in the Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania area, so why not take advantage of one? 

Even if you do not want to gamble, there is plenty of shopping and a nice beach.  You can pack a beach towel and just hang out on the beach all day.  You can also walk along the boardwalk.  You can eat lots of food or even play some games in the arcade.  If you have the opportunity to take a trip to Atlantic City, you totally should do it!

Stop Shopping So Much!

Do you like to shop?  I have to admit, I am guilty of shopping too much sometimes.  Sometimes I just feel bummed out and shopping cheers me up.  Other times, it can be part of the quality time I spend with friends or family.  However, being a shopping addict, which I daresay I have been in the past, can cause a number of issues.

I will admit my credit cards are not so great.  My financial situation could be better.  So I realized I needed to start spending differently, but it does hurt sometimes.  There are times when I just want or need to go shopping.  So I've creating some tips on shopping less.  Please click to read more!

http://hubpages.com/hub/Tips-to-Help-You-Stop-Shopping-Too-Much

Superfresh is Closing! Get Your Cheap Groceries Now!

I will be the first to admit I always feel a little guilty when a store is closing and I run in to buy cheap stuff as fast as possible.  In all honesty, it is cashing in on someone else's failure.  It is really sad.  It almost feels like a loved one has died and I am combing through their stuff looking for valuables.

Sadly, I do feel like this when it comes to the supermarket Superfresh closing.  It was once A & P and has been opened for decades.  Slowly, the stores have been closing one by one.  Now, one of the last in this area is closing.  If you live in the Baltimore area, start looking around at the Superfresh stores and ask when they are shutting down and when the Going Out of Business Sale will begin. 

No matter how sad I am about it closing, the store now has 30% off on practically everything.  In some areas you may only see 10% off or even as much as 50% off, but for now, most items are 30%.  Even though it is sad - 30% off!  Come on, if you don't buy it, some other bargain hunter will.  So for now, it is the right time to scope out the last remaining Superfresh stores and get a good deal. 

Making a Deal with Comcast

OK, let's face it, we all like cable television.  Especially now with digital cable, there are so many channels - who can stay away?  Also, the fact is that cable is expensive.  Have you ever just called Comcast and refused to pay a high price?  Because you can!

There is a lot of competition out there now and Comcast does not want to lose you.  Quite frankly, no one can afford their prices when it is at the regular rate.  Don't just sit there and pay high prices when your deal ends.  You can call Comcast and simply ask them to lower the price.  Don't believe me?  I have not paid full price for cable in 7 years.  As soon as my deal ends, I call them and ask if they are running any promotions.  Need some ideas on how to start the conversation?  Here are several examples:

"I just got my bill and I simply can't pay this every month.  Is there anything you can do for me?"

"I need to cancel my cable if we can't figure out a better price."

"Are you running any current promotions?  My bill is too high, but I do not want to cancel my cable."

All of these are great ways to begin the conversation.  Every now and then, you will get a sales person that wants to play tough.  You are going to have to either threaten to cancel, threaten to switch to Verizon, or cancel a premium channel or two to show them you mean business.  I recommend calling back about 6 months later to see what type of deal you can get if you are forced to get rid of something and want it back.  However, you may determine you don't even miss HBO.  I discovered that myself a few years ago.

It is important not to annoy the hell out of Comcast on a regular basis.  Remember to only call once one of your promotions end.  This is usually anytime from 6 months to a year.  Also, if you have Dish Network, I've heard they are willing to negotiate as well.  Let's face it, companies do not want to lose you as a customer and they know they are overpriced anyway.  Most are willing to work with you when it comes to cable.

Dorm Shopping - For You!

It is that time of year again.  As soon as summer begins, the stores start thinking about fall.  Most specifically, they start thinking about college kids going away and the sales it will bring them. 

Anyone going away to college for the first time needs a lot of items.  As more college students get tired of dorm living or do not have that option at all, students are finding they need to live in an apartment.  As everyone knows, whether you live in an apartment or a dorm, you need lots of items.  This is when stores see a great opportunity to make some extra money. 

Don't let the dorm sales fool you - you don't have to be a student or the parent of a student to find some awesome bargains.  Do you need a new rug for your livingroom?  Do you need a new low-priced vacuum?  Maybe you need a new full size comforter?  Right now is the time to shop for all of those items.

College students shopping for the fall means you can get great bargains, as well.  This is the perfect time of year to buy something cute and new.  Because these sales are geared towards college students, not only are the prices lower than normal, but the colors are usually brighter and the patterns more vivid.  If you are a fun person and you want your home to express that, this is time to start shopping.  Don't let those college students have all the fun.

Just Don't Buy It!

Never underestimate how much money you can save just from not buying a few things.  Currently, I am still on my mission: Send Jeannie to the Beach.  Of course, I can't really afford to go, but sometimes you just must take a break.  There are things I really want to buy, but I just won't purchase them for now.  I've created a little list of things I really want, but I am currently living without:

Shower gels on sale at Bath & Body Works - $3 a piece

New MP3 Player - $30

New beach towel - $10

New CD - $15

Basically, if you add all of this together, I am saving around $60 just by not buying some items I really want.  I am instead using older products and simply dealing with it.  I have to remember the goal and continue:

Start Clearing Some Stuff Out

Of course, anyone that knows me knows I am all about a bargain.  If you know me, you may know I am all about going on a vacation, too.  For years I have not been able to afford to go on a "real" vacation.  It has been all about day trips for me.  Well, I am trying to change that. 

One of my friends is going to the beach next month and she has invited me to come with her.  This means I need to come up with some cash and I need to do it fast.  So you might ask, "How can a person come up with cash as quickly as possible?"  The answer is: sell some stuff. 

I am trying to determine if I want to participate in a community yard sale this weekend.  Quite frankly, I work in customer service and I do not feel like dealing with people trying to bargain hunt at a yard sale.  I've determined a better course of action is to sell stuff to stores.  In my area, there is a music store that buys DVDs and CDs, and there is a book store that buys used books.  The time has come to start clearing some stuff out.  I need some cash and I need it fast! 

I highly recommend cleaning out your own closets and seeing if you can sell items.  Don't forget - you can always sell clothes at consignment shops, too.  I don't seem to have luck with that, but books always seem to bring in money.  If all else fails, you can post items on Craigslist.  People are usually willing to buy the craziest things on Craigslist. 

The time has come!  I need to start clearing out and cashing in.  I hope you do the same!

Don't Feel the Burn!

I am all about saving money.  Instead of going on a real vacation, whenever you can find a free pool, why not go there?  Here is something you should not try to save money on - sunblock!  I was barely out at all yesterday, but I look like a giant lobster.  Even worse is how badly my legs are swollen.  I can barely walk because it hurts so bad. 

So don't go too crazy when laying out in the sun.  And do yourself a favor and buy some decent sunblock.  At least I don't have to work today.  There is no way I could do it.  Obviously, I am not saving money if I can't work.  So be careful in the sun!

The back of my legs got it the worst!  My legs are not even that big; they are swollen.  YUCK!!!

Be Nice and Contribute

I have a pet peeve that I need to share.  I am a pretty hospitable person and sometimes people will stay with me for a weekend or even as much as a week.  As we know, I am not made of money.  I really do not mind people eating my food or watching my TV or even sleeping on the futon for a while.  What I do mind is when people do not contribute to anything.

I ask anyone reading this, if you are visiting a friend or relative, please contribute to the food stash or contribute in some way.  If the person you are visiting absolutely refuses to accept anything, then do not insist.  Maybe send them a nice thank you gift later.  If you are staying with someone that asked you to visit because they needed help in some way, then you are not required to give them anything.  However, if you are staying with someone, especially if you need a place to stay for some reason, do not freeload!

I am pretty broke most of the time.  Some people do not understand when they visit someone and use items in their home, that means the items must be replenished sooner.  Let me give you an example.  I live by myself and I work at an office a lot; therefore, I am not home too much and only use about one roll of toilet paper a week.  When people stay with me, especially if they are using my bathroom while I work and they hang out on my couch, I go through two or three rolls of toilet paper that week.  That might seem petty, but when every penny counts, so does every other little item.  So now, imagine everything else in my home going at that rate: toilet paper, paper towels, tissue paper, napkins, milk, fruit, cheese, juice, coffee, soda, etc.   The list goes on and on.  Not to mention, a TV and other items that use electric typically runs more often when guests visit.

I am not trying to be petty; I am just saying everything adds up.  Some people live with other people.  They constantly have roommates, a significant other, parents, or whatever, and the expenses are shared or taken care of by someone else.  Or perhaps some people are lucky and do not live check to check.  So maybe some people do not realize how these things add up.  I do.  So please take what I've mentioned into consideration next time you stay with someone else. 

Low Budget Furniture

Do you need to furnish an apartment?  Are you having problems finding furniture that is within a low-budget price range?  Have no worries!  You can buy a futon and have a real piece of furniture!

A futon is great because not only can you use it like it's a couch, you can use it as a bed.  It is probably one of the most useful pieces of furniture you can buy.  The best part is a futon frame and mattress typically run between $100 - $200 for the entire setup.  It is perfect for apartments, houses, and dorms.

To read more about the futon, please click on the link: 5 Reasons Why You Should Own a Futon

Atlantic City Day Trips

I've been thinking a lot about vacations lately.  Mostly because I think I really need to go on one!  If you are looking for a bargain trip, I would like to recommend Atlantic City.  Now I know what you are thinking.  You think Atlantic City is all about gambling and that is just not true. 

Atlantic City has a beach, an amusement park, an aquarium, arcades, games, an awesome boardwalk, beautiful mall, outlet stores, and so much more!  It is possible to be entertained in Atlantic City for an entire day without ever going in a casino.  So why not take a day trip there? 

Plenty of states that surround New Jersey offer low budget bus tours.  People travel to Atlantic City on day trips often for only $25 to $40 for a round trip.  Part of this is to promote the casinos.  You pay for your bus trip and you usually receive a voucher for about $25 or $30 to spend in the casinos.  Sometimes you will even get a meal voucher.  It is a great deal.  If you don't like to gamble, give the voucher to someone else.  Personally, I usually spend just the voucher and go on my way.  One year, I actually won $200 and never even spent the entire voucher.  Yes, that was a good trip. 

So if you want to go on a day trip and you do not want to spend a lot, you should consider Atlantic City.  If you live in Baltimore, here is a helpful article: http://hubpages.com/hub/Baltimore-to-Atlantic-City-Trip

Penny Pinching

What would a bargain blog be without a post about pinching pennies - literally.  How often do you walk along and see a penny on the sidewalk?  Pretty often, right?  How many times do you really pick it up?  Chances are, you do not.  If you don't, you should.  I daresay you need to start picking up all change when you see it.

Back in the good old days, before the economy crumbled apart, I used to walk by change on sidewalks all the time.  Now, I have been known to wade through a puddle to get a dime.  Change may not seem like much, but if you save enough of it you can use it to buy food.  You never know when you are going to be 20 cents short and not able to buy a loaf of bread.  So when you see change, grab it and save it.

Living Cheap While Living in Maryland

Do you want to go on a vacation?  Of course you do!  Do you live in Maryland?  Well, maybe yes and maybe no.  But I'll bet you would like to go on a vacation if you are in Maryland.  Sadly, a good percentage of us can't afford to go on a vacation.  Have no worries!  There are plenty of low-budget vacation spots in Maryland. 

 You can go to Ocean City or Chesapeake Beach or D.C.  For more information, you can visit: http://www.squidoo.com/low-budget-summer-fun-in-maryland

Shop for Cheap at the Mall!

Some people will tell you there are no good deals at the mall.  Wrong!  I shop at the mall all the time, and let's get real, I am totally stingy!  If I say you can get some good deals at the mall, then you can. 

Some of the stores with the best bargains are:

H & M
New York & Company
Claire's
The Icing
Payless

You can check out my hub for more information: http://hubpages.com/hub/Mall-Stores-with-Great-Deals

Spring has Sprung

It's been a long winter.  It's been a really really painfully long winter.  Technically, spring started about a month ago.  But the bad weather and the cold temperatures really don't worry about calendars.  It has been pretty cold up until the last week.  Finally, spring is actually here!

This is a great time to go out to all the Spring Festivals in your area.  It is a great way to get out in the sun, enjoy wherever you may live, and, most of all, save money.  Everyone likes to be able to get away from it all.  Unfortunately, you can't always afford to do that.  Try to think of the Spring Festival as a mini-vacation.  It has an amusement park feel, and often there is little or no cost at all to get in.  You can people watch and get some cheap funnel cakes.  What could be better than that?  So go out there and enjoy the weather.

My Coke Rewards Update

I am happy to announce that I am now the proud owner of a Wet / Dry Rechargeable Vacuum.  I received this vacuum from collecting 1500 Coke Rewards.  This just goes to show that you can collect points and actually earn a quality item.  I am really happy with my vacuum and it cleans quite well.  If anyone is considering getting this product, I would highly recommend it.  It was completely free, including the shipping.

Baltimore Sun Coupons - April 23 & 24

I wanted to give a little update to everyone about my coupon quest.  I was really excited last weekend about all of my coupons from the Baltimore Sun.  Well, this weekend there were no coupons at all.  If you are buying the weekend newspaper just for coupons, do not bother.  I guess this makes up for the extra coupons from last week.  Unless one of my neighbors took my coupons.  Grrrr!

Baltimore Sun Coupons - April 16th & 17th, 2011

If anyone out there has a subscription to the Baltimore Sun, you are in luck this weekend!  There are a ton of coupons this weekend.  Instead of just the usual 2 or even 3 packets, there are actually 4 packets this weekend.  This is the most I've seen so far.  Even if you do not subscribe to the Baltimore Sun, if you live in Maryland you should pick up a weekend newspaper.  If you do not live in Maryland, check out your state's newspaper this weekend.  Chances are, they have plenty of coupons as well.

When you check out the coupons, you can expect to find really practical, helpful coupons for cereal, detergent, beauty products, and much more.  It is a great weekend for bargain hunters!



Webanswers.com

If you are interested in making some extra cash online, I highly recommend trying webanswers.com.  What you will need to make money on this site is a Google Adsense account.  If you do not have one, it is easy to apply for one.  Just google "google adsense" and it will take you to their page.  You then set up an account with them.  Sometimes it takes a while for approval.

If you are already approved, you can go on to webanswers today, sign up, and start posting answers.  Once you've posted answers, the person who asked the question can award an answer.  Sometimes they do and sometimes they do not.  If you answer is awarded, you will earn money when someone visits your page and clicks on the links.  If the answer is never awarded, the revenue is divided between everyone that answered the question.  The percentage paid is based on your quality score.

The site does not tell you what your quality is, but they have some basic rules on how to have a great score.  Always post thorough answers, using correct grammar, and use correct spelling.  Also, as someone who has used the site for a while, I would recommend answering every question with at least a paragraph or two. 

Here are some examples if you would like to see:

http://www.webanswers.com/shopping/do-you-know-of-any-stores-that-will-give-you-free-items-if-you-have-their-loyalty-card-or-give-them-9a8c93

http://www.webanswers.com/for-fun/what-is-your-favorite-amusement-park-138c7b

http://www.webanswers.com/entertainment/tv/what-phrase-from-tv-refers-to-a-contrived-stunt-that-indicates-desperation-0ed657

http://www.webanswers.com/jobs-careers/why-do-incompetent-people-work-at-placed-such-as-financial-aid-57f30a

Harris Polls Online

People are always wondering if there is any such thing as a legit survey site.  I am here to say there definitely is such a thing.  People just don't realize that you can't always get cash from a survey, but there are sites that will reward you.

I have been with Harris Polls Online for years.  They are a respected company and they usually send me an emailed survey invitation about once a week.  Sometimes you are picked to do a full length survey; other times you will not be chosen.  However, Harris Polls always awards points for your effort.  Once you receive a number of points, you can then pick out a prize.  Usually I just get a gift card, which is basically like getting paid.  I highly recommend this company.  I tried a different survey company recently and they were awful.

For more information and to get signed up, you can visit http://www.harrispollonline.com/.

My Coke Rewards

Do you drink Coke all the time?  Better yet, do your co-workers drink Coke all the time?  If so, you could be cashing in on Coke Rewards.

At my office, we go through tons of Diet Coke, Coke, Sprite, and other Coke products each week.  Since it is ordered by the office (and paid for by my company, which is great), it is bought in bulk and the cans in their cardboard boxes sit in the kitchen.  As it turns out, each 12 pack of cans is worth 10 points.  No one at my job bothers saving the points off the box.  So that is why I started doing it. 

If you go on http://www.mycokerewards.com/ you can learn about all the great ways to spend your points.  Initially, I constantly entered in drawings for gift cards.  I still do every now and then, but I am saving for the real products now since they are a sure bet.  I already received a free hat and a free MP3 player.  Coke even pays for shipping.  Right now, I am saving for a Rechargeable Wet / Dry Vacuum. 

So save up your Coke Rewards and you can get your own free products!

We're Gonna Party Like It's My Birthday!

This is March and it is a very special month for me.  I was born in March.  Don't get me wrong, I am not so excited about that.  Getting older is not really my thing.  However, getting free stuff is totally my thing!  Plenty of stores and restaurants will give you free stuff during your birthday month.  Just the simple act of getting one year older will help you cash in.

Just last week, I went by Sephora and showed them my Sephora Beauty Insider card.  I was able to get a free gift and a free sample.  I bought absolutely nothing!  Woo-hoo!  The free gift this year is showel gel called Happy Birthday, Beautiful.  If you are a member of Sephora's loyalty program, I highly recommend you drop by Sephora a week before or a week after your birthday.  Getting free stuff is awesome!

If you are not a member of any loyalty programs, start signing up now!  It is worth it.  Especially if your birthday is coming in a month or two.  This is the perfect time to start going to places or applying online.  If you'd like, you can read about other offers at: Party On! Birthday Bargains!

Hang It Out to Dry

I live in an apartment building and I have been blessed with a lovely shared laundry room.  In my area, you pay a small fortune to live in a place with a washer and dryer in your unit.  So therefore, I must make the most out of the laundry room.

It cost $1.60 to wash a load and another $1.60 to dry a load.  That is just too much money.  Did you know that Bed, Bath & Beyond carries drying racks for just $20 a piece?  I recommend buying 2 racks and never using the dryers again if you use a laundry room or laundromat.  You can easily hang some clothes on the shower rod in the bathroom, too.  I only use the dryers in my building if I am drying sheets or towels since they are awkward to hang in an apartment.

The cost of drying 2 loads of clothes per week adds up to $166.40 a year.  Why not order 2 racks from Bed, Bath & Beyond and pay for the shipping?  You will save about $120 a year in the first year.  Plus, your clothes are less likely to shrink and it is also less likely that a creepy guy from your apartment building will steal your stuff out of the dryer.  Trust me, it happens!

Drying Rack at Bed, Bath and Beyond

Weekend Coupon Madness

It's Sunday and you know what that means?  It is coupon clipping day for me.  I used to go out every weekend and buy the weekend newspaper.  One day, the Baltimore Sun offered to give me a year subscription for only one cent.  Well, you can't beat that.  I am saving the $2 I used to spend every weekend.  So now, I get my coupons (and of course newspapers) brought to my door.  I am saving way more money and time this way. 

There was a time when I used to have a life.  I used to dine out, go bowling, or go shopping.  Now I spend my weekend going through sales papers and coupons.  However, I have to try to make my bargain shopping fun now.  Saving money is almost like a hobby now. 

My recommendation on making the most of this experience is leafing through all the sales and ads for the stores in your area.  Obviously, you are not going to save too much money if you are traveling too far to get your bargains.  You are then wasting all your money on gas or bus fees.  You will not come out ahead.  Plus, you need to clip coupons for only what you need.  Don't look at a $1 off coupon and think you may as well get that item.  If you do not need it and you probably won't use it, it does not matter that you saved $1.  Whatever you just paid was a total waste.  You also need to find stores in your area that double coupons.  In this situation, go to the cheapest store that will do that.  Just remember, usually they only double the coupon if it is under $1.  That is why I try to get as many 75 cent off coupons as possible.  In the world of double coupons, those are the best. 

Now, I have heard of people making charts or lists to keep up with every store and sale.  That is a little much.  I would recommend finding a couple of really low priced stores and sticking with that.  Always check for sales first though, even if that means going online.  Also, keep in mind that stores like Walmart, Target, Kmart, and dollar stores carry most of the same brands as grocery stores.  Those stores also usually carry food items and paper products.  I usually try to go to Target or Walmart once a week for things like toothpaste, toilet paper, paper towels, medicine, etc.  You will save way more money that way.  For items like meat, vegetables, cereal, and other food items, I go to a regular grocery store. 

If you incorporate some of these ideas into your own life, you will be amazed at how much you save every weekend.  A fun thing you can do is to also reward yourself with something small that you really want for all your effort.  After all, if you are saving 10 or more dollars a week, why shouldn't you get to have a candy bar or a cute item from the dollar store?

Happy shopping to you!

Being Broke is Not Cool

Allow me to introduce myself.  I am Jeannie and I am super thrifty.  I was not always this obsessed with saving a buck.  I've always liked a good bargain or a sale, but since the economy went down the tubes, I am all about taking saving money to the next level. 

In this blog, I want to discuss a number of ways you can be stingy.  Naturally, I will not discuss ways to steal items or services, but I do want to point out ways you can save money.  If there is a bargain to be found, I am on it.  If I find coupons, I will find a way to get them doubled or even tripled.  I am all about saving money and I am here to help others do that same.