Christmas Shopping Bargains - Weekend Dec. 15/16

If you are a last minute shopper, you are in luck this weekend.  There are many stores that are breaking out their best prices this weekend.  If you are buying the bulk of your Christmas gifts this weekend, you can totally save money.

The first store I want to discuss is Michael's.  Just about everything is on sale.  There are dollar items that are only 50 cents.  T-shirts that are usually $3.99 are now 2 for $6.  Many holiday items are 30 to 60 percent off this weekend.  Not to mention, Michael's has been more than generous with coupons.  They are currently offering 20% off coupons to ALL items... even sale items, for this weekend only.  You just need to sign up for their email discounts.

The next store we need to discuss is New York & Company.  I remember by this point last year, they were all but giving the store away.  The same can be said this year.  There are shirts for 10 bucks.  Scarf and glove sets for $10 that are regularly around $25.  Each day, New York & Company sends emails with crazier and crazier discounts.  I am waiting for them to offer to pay me to shop there soon.

I would also recommend signing up for emails from Yankee Candle and Bath and Body Works.  Each day, both stores are offering a different sale item.  For instance, yesterday Bath and Body Works was selling large candles for only $8 a candle.  They are usually $20 a candle.  Today Bath and Body Works was selling body cream for only $5!  If you sign up for their emails, you will be the first to know the great daily deals at both stores.

I do not promote waiting the last minute to go Christmas shopping, but this year, it does make sense.  Many stores are breaking out some amazing deals to appeal to every shopper.  Even if you thought you were done shopping, it might be worth it to add a few more gifts to your list now.  So enjoy it, last minute shoppers! 

 

Staying Warm This Winter - Christmas Gifts That Help Others

So far, this winter has been pretty mild in Maryland.  I have heard predictions that it is going to get much colder though.  Since many of us have to keep the heat down this winter, it is nice idea to give practical gifts that will keep everyone warm.  There was a time when practical gifts were not the funnest gifts to give, but that is no longer the case.  Staying warm and saving money is something everyone enjoys.

Some ideas for "warm gifts" include:

Slippers: Warm, fuzzy slippers go a long way keeping a person warm.  No one wants to walk around at home wearing shoes; slippers are a warm solution to that.

Socks: Cozy socks are the perfect present for people to keep warm this winter.  I am not saying socks are a good idea as the ONLY gift for someone, but slippers and socks or socks and pajamas are a nice idea.

Pajamas:  Thick and warm pajamas are definitely a most appreciated gift this holiday season.  If you buy matching slippers, that is ever better.

Winter hats:  There are plenty of warm winter hats available at stores.  You can get knitted caps or even animal shaped hats.  This is a great option for someone that works outside a lot in the snow.

Boots: Along the same line as hats, boots can be practical and fashionable.  It can be a challenge getting the exact size right though, so unless you are 100% sure on this one, you might want to skip it.

Coats: A nice coat is always a great present for someone during the winter.  This is especially the case if this person has been wearing the same coat for years.  It can be fun to add something new to a wardrobe.

Blankets: A great warm gift are blankets, throws, electric blankets, and electric throws.  Not only are these practical gifts, many electric throws and blankets are very reasonably priced this holiday season.  Also, some have really cute patterns or cartoon characters on them.

Sweaters: Oh no, it is the standard knitted sweater gift for Christmas!  However, some sweaters are beautiful and stylish.  Sweaters that button in the front are the perfect gift for those that work at a chilly office and often need to throw a sweater on when it gets too cold.

Energy saving heaters: There are many options now for heaters.  Most modern portable heaters have automatic shutoffs if they overheat and some are cute and quiet.  A lot of heaters even come with remote controls!  How great is that?  They are the perfect gift for someone without reliable heat at their home, or for someone that wants to warm a small space and save money.

Save Money on Your Heating Bill

One of the best ways to save money on your heating bill this winter is to "winterize" your windows.  You can easily do this by applying plastic to the inside of your windows in your home.  Perhaps you don't even want to apply the plastic to all your windows.  That is just fine! 

If you close off some rooms in your home and don't heat those rooms, then you won't need to worry as much about those windows.  Focus on the rooms in your house you actual use and heat.  Most importantly, focus on the windows that have the most drafts.

Once you determine which windows you want to winterize, you can easily purchase Duck Indoor Shrink Plastic Film Window Kits at any discount store.  They sell for about $10 a box.  Once you've gotten those, you are on your way to keeping out the cold air in no time. 

It also helps to purchase a heater that runs on as little electricity as possible.  You can find those in the same discount stores.  Why bother spending money on oil or gas heat if that is not needed?  Even if saving money is not your top priority, staying warm this winter should always be important.

Adding the plastic to your windows will make you home much warmer, and in no time, you will find your heating bill goes down.  I've been applying plastic to my windows for a few years now and it makes a major difference. 

Christmas Shopping Begins!

The Christmas shopping season has certainly begun.  Finding a giant pile of sales papers with my newspapers this weekend reminded me of that news.  I did not take part in any Black Friday sales, but as usual, I am happy to look for deals.

I went to Target today, mostly for food, but Target lured me into the dollar section with great deals.  Some of the many holiday items you can find in the dollar section are:

• Gift bags
• Wrapping paper
• Holiday glasses
• Holiday decorations
• Tissue paper
• Stocking stuffers
• Christmas cards

Oh yes, it is a good time to hit Target.  This makes sense for Target to sell these items for just a dollar since it can potentially keep someone away from the dollar store this Christmas.  After all, if you have a number of items you wanted to purchase at the dollar store, yet you find most of them at Target, you probably won't even bother to go to the dollar store anyway.  You will probably just remain in Target to make your shopping experience easier. 

Very smart, Target, very smart.

Fuggs and the Folks that Love Them

As a super thrifty shopper, I like to have cute boots, but I am not willing to pay "Ugg prices" for them.  Instead, I am willing to pay "Fugg prices" for boots. If you do not know what Fuggs are, they are fake Uggs.

If you are in the market to buy some fake Uggs, I highly recommend checking out what Target has to offer.  Their Xhilaration boots are just as good as Uggs, but only about $35.  Wow, that is over $100 less than Uggs.  Sure the fur inside might be fake, but A) you can't tell, and B) who wants to wear real fur anyway?

Target boots stand up to the elements the same way expensive boots do.  You can walk through rain, snow, and slush.  Xhilaration boots are not only durable, but also warm, comfortable, and attractive.  So what are you doing just sitting there?  Go buy yourself the best Fuggs in town!

Preparing for Hurricane Sandy on a Budget

If you live on the east coast and must deal with Hurricane Sandy, I am sorry.  If you live on the east coast and must prepare for the hurricane on a budget, then you are in luck!  Many of the food products you will need are rather low-budget!

I live in Maryland and I am getting prepared for Hurricane Sandy or Frankenstorm, if you prefer.  I am not terribly excited about the prospect of this annoying hurricane coming my way.  I don't want to deal with my windows rattling and leaking like they did with Hurricane Irene.  I also don't want to deal with potentially losing my electric for days.  However, she is coming whether I like it or not, so trying to stay on a budget is my goal. 

Some important items to buy in preparation for Hurricane Sandy are flashlights, batteries, and food that does not need to be refrigerated.  Luckily, many dollar stores sell flashlights, batteries, and food for a very low cost.  Unfortunately, you might have a hard time finding flashlights and D batteries at this point.  If you have flashlights that take AAA batteries or AA batteries, you are in luck.  There are still some available as of Sunday morning. 

As far as shopping for food, usually the cheapest food is the type that does not need to be refrigerated.  It is a good idea to stock up on items such as:

• Pop Tarts
• Cereal Bars
• Granola Bars
• Applesauce, pudding, and fruit cups
• Cans of tuna or chicken
• Peanut Butter
• Nutella
• Bread
• Banana
• Carrots
• Radishes

I've also been freezing water is plastic cups and making a lot of ice in my freezer.  I am hoping if I do lose power, I won't lose all of my food.  I am hoping with enough ice, everything will be OK for days.  Since I am hoping for this, I also bought food that tends to last a while in the fridge and freezer like hot dogs, cheese, jelly, etc.

Since I am hoping you still have power if you are reading this, make sure to start getting prepared with water at this time.  Start filling buckets and jugs so you can flush your toilets in case you are not able to do so when you lose power.  Also, make sure to start filling water bottles and pitchers with fresh water to drink.  Make sure to have about a gallon of water per person per day.  Plan for at least 3 days of water.   

To anyone reading this on the east coast, best of luck to you!  Don't let Hurricane Sandy ruin your week or your Halloween.  We can get through this together!

It's Halloween Time!

Although you will find the biggest Halloween sales the day after Halloween, where is the fun in getting stuff for Halloween after the holiday?  The next big sale opportunity for Halloween is right now.  Many stores like Walmart and Target are fully stocked right now for Halloween.  This means if you are in the market for a great new costume or cool decorations, the time to buy is now.

I recommend trying to buy as much as possible at stores like Walmart, Kmart, and Target.  You will find the lowest prices there.  If you want something really special, you can try Spirit or Halloween Adventure, but beware of the prices.  You can sign up for email coupons for Spirit, which is what I would suggest if you insist on shopping there.  After all, they do have the best ghoulish Halloween supplies. 

This is also a good time to use your imagination to create your own costume and save money.  Don't forget, it is not very expensive to be a zombie since zombies are not known for their awesome sense of style.  You can also go with an outfit from a certain era, like 50s girl, 80s mallrat, 90s grunge, or something along those lines.  You can often find those outfits in your own closet without any work at all.  Don't forget to exchange Halloween costumes with friends or visit a thrift store.  You might find a dirt cheap used wedding dress so you can be an ex-wife or the Bride of Frankenstein.

I suggest checking out sales papers and doing your Halloween shopping within the next week or two.  If you wait the last minute, you might get some great bargains, but you also might be dressed in an ill-fitting or lame Halloween costume.  Obviously, you would not want to do that!  The time is now for shopping!

For more Halloween advice, check out:

Scariest Masks for Halloween

Completely Ridiculous Halloween Costumes

Completely Ridiculous Halloween Decorations

Picking the Perfect Pumpkin

Autumn Decorations at Target

Fall is swiftly coming and some of us are happy to embrace it.  What better way to celebrate autumn than decorating your home for it?  It might seem costly to decorate for the fall, but a few simple decorations can add a lot of warmth and an autumn feel to your home.

Right now, Target has a number of fall decorations in the dollar section.  Many items are $1, but some are $2.50.  You pick through an assortment of autumn decorations, such as owls, scarecrows, pumpkins, and other fall related items.  You can also choose from Halloween decorations like glitter jack-o-latterns, ghost, and ghoul items.  There are even Halloween pens and pencils.

If you are interested in spending a bit more money for nicer items, Target is fully stocked with other autumn decorations, Halloween items, and even some Thanksgiving supplies.  Some of those items are on sale already, so you can start to buy now!  Get ready for the fall and make you home look beautiful.

Earn Extra Money on Zazzle

If you are creative, now is the time to join Zazzle.com.  If you have artwork, great photography, or can even just think of some clever catch phrases, you should join Zazzle.

The basic concept is you upload your own images to the site.  You can then add your images to an assortment of items from Zazzle.  You can choose from a number of items like:

Postcards
Greeting cards
Mouse pads
Keychains
T-shirts
Kindle cases
Tote bags
Mugs
Magnets
And much more!

Once you design the product, you simply press the "Post for Sale" button.  Then when customers search for a particular product, they can find your work and buy it from Zazzle.  Zazzle creates it and ships it for you.  You simply get some of the royalty from it.  It is really that easy!

Check out my own store that is relatively new: Jeannieinabottle on Zazzle.  It is easy to join by scrolling to the bottom of the screen.  On the bottom left, you have the option to "Sell Your Design" or "Become an Associate."  If you don't want to create products, but you want to earn money by promoting someone else's stuff, you can do that as an associate.  What a great way to make extra cash!

Laptop for $249.99 at Target

If you need a new laptop, you are probably not going to find a better deal than the one at Target this week.  Starting today, Sunday August 5th, a Gateway laptop that is regularly priced at $379.99 is now only $249.99.  Obviously, this is an exceptional deal.

Apparently, the Target near me received so many phone calls, the workers expected a small mob to show up on Sunday.  I happened to be in the store on Saturday night looking at the sad two laptops sitting in the case.  I made an important decision on Sunday morning.  Ordering online is a way better idea than getting in a fist fight over the only two Gateway laptops sitting in a display case.

So if you need a new laptop, you can visit your local Target to see if they have any in stock.  Chances are, they don't.  In this situation, Target is not issuing rainchecks or substitutions.  I feel like the best bargain of all is staying home and ordering the laptop online.  Sometimes it is worth paying the shipping cost instead of being trampled at 8 AM on a Sunday morning to fight over a laptop.

Shopping at Payless is a Choice

It just recently occured to me that shopping at Payless Shoes has become less about saving money and more about being fashionable.  What an interesting twist for Payless shoppers.

There was a time when people shopped at Payless because they had no other choice.  There wasn't a lot of variety and some of the styles were not so cute.  I believe Payless gets better with each year.  Over the last ten years, things have really changed at Payless.

People now shop at Payless because they want to do so.  Sure, they could go to other stores to buy shoes, but given the choice, people actually like what Payless has to offer.  Yes, I will admit the prices have gone up a bit, but with the new Payless loyalty program and BOGO sales all the time, you can still find yourself buying 2 pairs of shoes for under $30.  That is a great deal in my book.

Payless actually sells a lot of designer brand names now at the store.  Aside from that, many cute brands like their American Eagle brand, Champion athletic shoes, or Airwalk shoes are available.  It is a great place to shop now and still save money.  If you haven't been in a while, I highly recommend it.  It is the first place I go for shoes, and honestly, it is usually the last since I always find something I like.  Shoes that are geniunely attractive and low-priced definitely get a "thumbs up" from me.

It's Dorm Shopping Time!

Yes, that great time of year has arrived again... dorm sales!  If you or someone you know is going away to college this fall, now is the perfect time to pick up the cutest items for the dorm.  Even if you are not going away to college, who cares?  This is still the best time to shop for home items.

Unfortunately, throughout the year, many stores carry boring colors for sheets, towels, trash cans, rugs, etc.  But not now!  If you want bright pink towels in your bathroom or a bright red trash can for your kitchen, this is the time of year to go shopping for that.  For some reason, retailers believe only college students want bright colors in their home.  As we all know, many adults love bright colors anytime for our homes.  Now is the time to shop!

Furthermore, now is the time for great sales.  Plenty of items are on sale for college students at stores like Walmart, Target, Kmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohl's, JC Penney, and plenty more.  If you like bright colors and bargain prices, you'd better start shopping.  For the next month, you should be able to find plenty of low-budget items to choose from.  After that, you will find clearance prices, but not as much variety.  Depending on your priorities, you might want to go now or wait it out.

Some of the many great (bargain) purchases you can make at this time are:

• Sheets
• Comforters
• Towels
• Rugs
• Mats
• Vacuums
• Mini-fridge
• Coffee maker
• Microwave
• Toaster oven
• Plates
• Silverware
• Pots / pans
• Alarm clocks
• Posters
• Futons
• Lamps
• Curtains
• Picture frames
• Trash cans
• Laundry baskets
• AND MUCH MORE!

I recommend going online and checking out websites to see which stores are offering the best deals and have the best colors.  Then it is time to shop!

For more dorm shopping advice, check out:

What College Students Need for the Dorm


Laundry Basics for the Dorm


What Are The Best Vacuums For A College Dorm?


How to Make a Small Dorm Room Look Bigger

Love, Love, Love at Bath & Body Works

Anyone that knows me can tell you I am an obsessed Bath & Body Works fan.  Unfortunately, because their products can be expensive, I don't get to buy as much as I'd like.  This means I must always wait for sales, coupons, etc.

If you are a fan like me, you should sign up for coupons on the Bath & Body Works website. The site will regularly send coupons.  Right now, they are sending coupons for a great deal.  As long as you spend at least $10, you can get a product from the Signature collection for free.  Right now, Bath & Body Works has just started selling a great new Signature scent - Love, Love, Love.

Love, Love, Love was released on Tuesday this past week at Bath & Body Works stores everywhere.  It is an amazing scent.  It has a light, sweet scent to it.  Love, Love, Love is a bit floral, but mostly sugary.  It is also not too strong, so many people should enjoy the fragrance.

Aside from being able to get Love, Love, Love for free with a purchase, many of the candles and other shower gels are still at clearance prices right now.  It is an excellent time to stock up.  I assume they are preparing for arrival of the fall and winter scents.  This excites me very much since my favorite scents are the holiday scents that usually arrive in October. 

For more Bath & Body Works related articles:

The Best Fall Candle Scents at Bath & Body Works

Bath & Body Works Holiday Scents for 2011

Fireworks Can Be Free!

Fireworks can be free!  No, I am not talking about going to a fireworks stand and stealing all their stuff.  I am talking about professional fireworks.  Sometimes, if you find the right park or location, you can watch fireworks for free.  Free is always my favorite thing!

I happen to be very lucky and live on the 15th floor of an apartment building.  This 4th of July, I can view fireworks from many different angles.  Several parks in my area will be setting off fireworks, but I can probably look forward to some locals deciding to set off some fireworks in their backyard.  Sure, not everyone is lucky enough to live on the 15th floor, but perhaps you know someone who has a great view of fireworks. You can hang out with them and not pay a cent.  If the apartment is air conditioned, even better!

A good strategy when trying to find your free fireworks entertainment is looking for a list of area locations that are having fireworks this July 4th.  You can find this in a newspaper or online.  Then try to determine an area where you can stay to watch the fireworks for free.  You can always see them far in the distance, so be creative.  Parking lots, parks, public driveways, friend's apartments, and an assortment of other places work.  You might even find a place that has fireworks and you don't even have to pay to sit and watch them.  Many beaches have a fireworks show that is free.

Don't let being broke ruin your good time this summer.  Look for those fireworks and check them out for free whenever possible!

Bath & Body Works Semi-Annual Sale

Now is the time to grab as much stuff as possible at Bath & Body Works.  They are having their semi-annual big sale and they've brought back a lot of old scents.  For that matter, many of their newer scents are on sale for really low prices, too. 

If you sign up on the Bath & Body Works website, you can get coupons emailed to you.  Right now, they are sending "$10 off a $40 purchase" coupons to customers.  Since everything is on sale anyway, you get a lot of merchandise for just $30.

I spent slightly over $30 and got products worth over $100!  I got 2 candles, 6 shower gels, one regular bottle of lotion, plus a mini-size bottle of lotion... all for just $30.  It is pretty awesome.  If you are a fan of Mango Mandarin, you should visit Bath & Body Works now.  It is going pretty fast (especially considering I just bought 4 bottles of Mango Mandarin shower gel) and it is favorite of many shoppers.

You definitely do not want to miss out on this deal!

Buy Low-Priced Plants Online

You may not know this, but you do not have to go to the store just to buy house plants.  I recently discovered you can order house plants on Amazon.  Yes!  I was surprised, too.

You can search for a specific type of plant or you can even search for plants within a certain price range.  If you are having a hard time finding house plants for a good price, you can literally search for "house plants under $5" or "house plants under $10."  Yes, there are a number of plants available!

Make sure to read the reviews first before making any purchases.  Many plants come from reputable sellers, but some sellers are not as good as others.  Always check that out first before buying the plant.  When the plant arrives, it will be a plain cardboard box, just as if you ordered clothes or DVDs.  You can then repot the plant in a bigger pot.  It is as simple as that! 

Ordering plants through Amazon isn't so crazy after all, is it?  Check it out and you will be pleased with the low prices and the great quality of the plants.

Save Money at the Beach!

Assateague Island in Maryland

I absolutely love visiting the beach.  If possible, I like to go to the ocean a couple of times each summer.  Unfortunately, sometimes I can only afford a day trip.  Other years, I can afford to stay a few nights.  No matter what budget you are working with, you can usually afford to take a day trip to the beach if you live on the east coast.

Did you know many of the states that surround New Jersey have a number of bus companies that offer low-budget day trips?  In many cases, you are even given a free voucher to use at the casinos in Atlantic City if you opt to take an Atlantic City day trip.  It is lots of fun and you can gamble if you want.  If gambling is not your thing, you can hit the beach or go shopping or simply enjoy the boardwalk.  You can even pack food, so you are basically only paying to take the trip, which can be as low as $25 on up to maybe $45 depending on the company you decide to use.

If you can afford to go the beach for more than one day, there are many ways to save money.  Some basic tips for saving money on your low-budget beach trip are:

• Reserve rooms for the middle of the week, not a weekend.  The rates are lower.
• Use a motel or hotel that is not directly on the beach.  Sometimes they have a lower rate.
• Ask friends and family members for recommendations.  Sometimes the best (and cheapest) lodging is at a place you've never heard of before.
• Pack your own food!
• Bring all your own supplies.
• Take a cooler with plenty of ice or make sure the motel has a fridge.
• Look for coupons online before the trip and print them.
• Look for coupon books and guides in the area once you get there.

For further details and tips, please check out: Low-Budget Tips For The Beach

Ocean City in Maryland

Mail Your Mother a Gift Basket this Mother's Day

If you've waited the last minute (as I have) to even think about Mother's Day, don't worry!  Time has not run out yet!  You can still order a pretty decent gift online and it will make it to your mother's house before the holiday.

You would be amazed at how many gift baskets are available on Amazon for less than $20!  There are many options, such a candy gift baskets, coffee and tea gift sets, and even spa gift baskets.  If you are willing to spend more, you can even get free shipping on most items $25 or over.

Sending a gift basket for Mother's Day is the perfect solution for people that don't have a lot of money and seriously don't have a lot of time.  Who has the free time to go to the post office to ship a gift for Mother's Day if visiting her is not an option?  Personally, I just don't have the time to do that.  With Amazon, you can choose a gift basket, pick from the gift options, and have them ship it for you.  It is as easy as that!

Believe it or not, you can even choose from some gourmet gift baskets.  You can even pick out a potted plant to send your mother from Amazon, as well.  Most potted plants are under $10 and, yes, they even ship those!  So don't just assume it is too expensive to send your mom a gift from Amazon.  It is easy and convenient.  What a great way to say you care!

Apartments For Rent!

If you are trying to save some money on rent, you should consider living in an apartment.  Many people won't think about living in an apartment building because they believe they will feel cramped or they want a large yard.  All of that is just not necessarily true.

Often, you can live in a large apartment for less rent than a house that is the same size.  Furthermore, many apartment buildings have a park or playground area anyone can use.  Most apartment buildings even have a pool.  It is great because you get to use it without worrying about cleaning it.

Right now, it makes a lot of sense to rent an apartment rather than trying to buy a home.  You can also feel secure if you live in a high rise apartment building with security guards or a security system.  Most apartment buildings even offer community activities.  You can go on bus trips, watch movies, or use a gym for residents only.  Living in an apartment can be awesome.

So before you settle for a townhome or a house that you really don't even like, consider moving into an apartment building.  Management will take care of repairs, snow removal, pest control, and so much more.  You can just relax, save money, and enjoy the view!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!  It is going to be a beautiful weekend (at least in Maryland) and a great time to hunt for Easter Eggs, look for the Easter Bunny, eat lots of candy, and do other fun spring activities.  I hope everyone has a very happy Easter, and most of all, a very safe and low-budget Easter.  Have fun with your families while dying some Easter Eggs!

Have a great weekend!  Also, please enjoy this Bunny Rap below...

The Body Shop Rewards Program



If you like buying high quality shower gels, soaps, lotions, and body butters, you might just want to visit The Body Shop.  They even sell shampoo and cosmetics as well.  Yes, the store can be expensive, but they offer many different sales throughout the year.  The Body Shop's prices can be actually quite similar to Bath & Body Works' prices, especially if you shop during a sale.  Except there is one major difference - The Body Shop offers a rewards program.

That is right!  When you visit The Body Shop, you can sign up to get discounts everytime you shop.  The cost to join the program is $10, but that more than pays for itself in no time.  Check out some of the great discounts!

The Love Your Body card offers:

• 10% off all purchases
• Bonus points earned towards free items
• Invitations to exclusive events
• Special offers and coupons
• A birthday offer

So what are you waiting for?  You should visit The Body Shop and cash in on this deal.  If you'd like to read more about some of the great scents in store for you, check out The Best Body Butter Scents at The Body Shop. 

Have Yourself a Low-Budget Easter

Even if you don't have a lot of money to celebrate Easter, you can certainly have fun.  You can spend time with your family, eat too much food, and have a great time all around.  You seriously don't have to spend much money at all.

The first activity you can do for Easter is dye Easter Eggs.  It does not cost a lost of money.  A carton of eggs can easily cost about $2.  You can also buy a kit to dye eggs for around 2 bucks, too.  If you have food coloring, you won't even need to buy a kit.  Once you've got everything together, just simply boil the eggs and start dying.  For Easter Egg dying tips, make sure to check out: How to Dye Easter Eggs.

Another activity you can try is hunting for Easter Eggs.  You can take the eggs you just dyed and hide them all over your house or your yard.  As long as you don't let the eggs sit out too long, you can actually eat them after you are through hunting them.  Some people find that a little gross, but my cousins and I did that all the time, and none of us died from it yet.  If you'd like to read more about Easter Egg hunts, make sure to visit: How To Add Excitement To Your Easter Egg Hunt.

If all else fails, just take your boiled eggs and make some egg salad or deviled eggs with them.  Everyone loves egg salad and deviled eggs.  If you are lucky, some of the colors from the Easter egg dye will seep through and color the actual egg if the egg was cracked.  That is fun and festive!

So have a very happy Easter this April.  There is no reason to spend a lot of money on Easter this year or any year.  Happy Easter!

Payless Shoes New Rewards Program

In case you are looking for a great bargain, you might want to drop by your nearest Payless Shoes.  Payless now offers their own rewards program.  You can easily sign up at the register the next time you are in the store.  The sales associate will hand over a card to you immediately.  Once you confirm your registration online, you will have access to all sorts of deals.  This by far is one of the best rewards programs I've seen offered by a store.
Benefits of being a Payless Rewards member:

• Instant 20% email coupon for next visit.
• 5% off each time you go to Payless
• Special birthday offer
• Exclusive coupons and deals
• Free shipping for online purchases over $50

Plus, membership is free!

If you shop at Payless Shoes anyway, this deal just makes a lot of sense.  Unfortunately, I joined 4 days after my birthday, so I can't tell you what the birthday deal will be this year, but the other offers are so good it doesn't even matter. 

For more birthday bargains and loyalty / rewards program offers, check out: Party On! Birthday Bargains!

Free Birthday Gift From Sephora

If you have not signed up for Sephora's Beauty Insider program yet, I strongly recommend you do so.  Not only do you get additional discounts, you get a free birthday gift each year.  There are absolutely no strings attached.  You simply walk in the store, go to the cashier, tell them its your birthday, and hand over the card.  You don't even have to make a purchase at that time.

This year, Sephora is giving away lip gloss.  The birthday gift is a small box with 2 lip treatments: 1 mini sugar lip treatment and 1 mini sugar rose tinted lip treatment.  Each are SPF 15.  Most of all, they are totally free.  The lip treatments smell nice and are very smooth on your lips. 

I highly recommend checking out Sephora's loyalty program and getting a free birthday gift the month of your birthday. 

For more free birthday deals, check out: Party On! Birthday Bargains!

Stand Your Broom Up On Its Own!

Are you bored and looking for some low-budget fun?  Do you have a cheap plastic broom?  Well, you are in luck!  For this Spring Vernal Equinox, you can try to stand your broom up on its own.  Yes, you can take you plastic broom and stand it up on its bristles.  This is supposed to be due to the tilt of the earth and the gravitational pull right before the first day of Spring.  You can also sometimes make a raw egg stand up because of the Spring Vernal Equinox as well. 

For more information on this, check out: The Almanac - First Day of Spring

However, there are some non-believers, or party poopers as I'd like to call them, that say standing the broom by itself on its bristles is just a trick that can be done at anytime.  They believe the bristles are so soft, it will cause the broom to stand on its own no matter what.  The gravitational pull should not be strong enough to make the broom stand by itself.

You can read their article here: The Truth to the Broom Trick

All I can say is, my cousin tried the broom trick at her house tonight and got her broom to stand up.  I also tried the broom trick at my apartment and got my own broom to stand up.  You can see my own lovely standing broom in the photo above.  So I think there is something to the story.  However, I have been unable to get an egg to stand on its own.  I will try that again on March 20th.

For now, if you are really bored and don't feel like paying for entertainment, try the broom trick in your own home.  Fun times!

Check out a YouTube clip:

Highlight Your Own Hair at Home and Save Money

You may not realize it, but you really do not have to go to a salon just to get salon hair.  Not getting your hair professionally colored, cut, or highlighted will save money!  Through trial and error over the years, I've learned how to a number of tasks at home.  I cut my own split ends, and if I decide I want bangs, I can cut those, too.  I've also colored my hair numerous times at home.  I've never really had an issue doing coloring my hair ever.  It is easy and inexpensive.  My only hair issues I've ever experienced has been bleaching my own hair or adding my own highlights.

However, you can add your own highlights at home.  You need to just consider it a challenge and give yourself a long time... maybe a couple of hours... to do the procedure.  Be careful, be patient, and expect a few imperfections.  What I've learned is even if you go to the salon, even the folks there usually make a mistake or two.  I haven't talked to anyone whose gone to a salon and walked away 100% satisfied with their highlights.  It is always a little uneven or a little too blonde or slight blotchy or whatever.  It happens no matter what.  So why not save your money and do it yourself?

Since your hair won't be perfect anyway, do yourself a favor and highlight it at home.  You need to just pay about $12 to get a hairpainting kit.  For more instructions and photos, check out this hub on highlighting your hair at home.

Why Kmart is Failing

Kmart is kind of a tough store to find now.  It is not in that many locations, and sometimes if you can find it, the location is not in an ideal spot where you want to shop.  Since it is such a challenge finding a Kmart, I had not been there in years.  Imagine my delight to see a Kmart again when I went to a different shopping center about 10 miles away from my home.

I will admit, I was pretty excited to see Kmart.  I remember all the time fun times I had shopping at Kmart as a child.  I remember the Blue Light Specials.  There used to be something special about Kmart.  However, all that has changed.

The Kmart I went into over the weekend was cramped, oddly arranged, and hardly had any staff working there.  Mind you, this might just be that particularly Kmart, so I can let that slide.  However, I cannot let the prices slide.

I found a number of items like juice and paper products to be very overpriced.  Not only are Walmart's and Target's prices much better, in many instances, even grocery store prices are better.  I was just not seeing the Kmart low prices I expected.  How is a discount store supposed to thrive when it really isn't discounted?

For this reason, I believe Kmart is failing.  I was disappointed that the store I once loved as child is no longer the wonderful place I once knew.  The deals simply are  not what they once were.  From now on, I will no longer look back and long for the opportunity to shop at Kmart.  Instead, I know I am better off going to Walmart and Target.  I am sorry Kmart. 

Bath and Body Works President's Day Sale

If you are interested in saving money at Bath and Body Works, it is a good idea to go this weekend.  Bath and Body Works is having a big President's Day sale.  Some of the main bargains you can get are:

Buy 3 get 3 free for anything in the Signature Collection

2 for $5 small candles

2 for $10 medium candles

There are also a number of other deals at the store this weekend.  If you have a coupon, you can use that along with the current bargains.  If you've been to Bath and Body Works recently, you probably already have a 20 % off coupon.  Now is the time to use it.

Bath and Body Works has a number of spring scents in the store.  Some of the spring scents include Pink Chiffon, Paris Amour, and Carried Away from the Signature Collection.  For candles, you can buy scents like Spring, First Bloom, and Flower Shop.  Check it out this weekend!

Have Yourself a Low-Budget Valentine's Day!

Let's face it, most of us don't even really like Valentine's Day.  Somehow, someway, we still get talked into celebrating it.  This year, forget about really celebrating Valentine's Day!  Why not do some low-budget stuff at home instead?

You can listen to some nice anti-love songs for Valentine's Day.  Why bother finding someone to celebrate with when you can celebrate by listening to cheating songs, weird love songs, and break-up songs.  It might be the most fun you'll have on Valentine's Day.

If you don't want to mope by yourself, how about getting some cheap, fun stuff at Target with your friends?  Perhaps you'd like to shop for cheesy, low-budget Valentine's Day items at Claire's.  Better yet, you can always go to the dollar store and go crazy buying loads of cheap candy.  Just sit around after shopping, and you and your single friends can go crazy with the calories.  Good times!

I mean, you could actually decide to do something productive like go to work.  Of course, that is not really a celebration.  That is more like torture.  By hey, you've got to make money to pay all those bills, right?  Right!  You can also just celebrate at home with a nice dinner, or hang out with your pets, or stalk your exes online.  There are are so many options when it comes to Valentine's Day!

So just remember, Valentine's Day is really just like any other day.  If it were an actual holiday, we wouldn't have to go to work.  So don't get too carried away!  Go crazy at the dollar store or hang out at home.  Keep it simple and low-budget!

Finding Extra Money

It is that time of year when we all start to feel kind of bummed out because the bills are coming in from Christmas spending.  Many of us couldn't afford to buy gifts in the first place, so now figuring out how to pay for what was purchased is a pain.  It might be time to think of ways to bring in more money.

The first way many Americans think of bringing in more cash is by filing taxes.  If you are one of those lucky people that is getting a lot back from taxes, good for you.  If you are somebody that is going to have to pay your taxes, well now, you have a whole new problem.  So on to plan B.

For many of us, finding a new job that pays better than our current job is not even an option.  I've been looking for a better paying job for about a year now and still can't find one.  I am someone with a lot of experience and a college degree, and still no luck.  The best advice I can give is finding a second job.  It can be a real drag, but it can be done.

Luckily, due to tax season and refunds, many people start spending money again in the spring.  This means stores are willing to hire people.  I suggest taking a second job at the mall or at a store if possible.  You might not think you have the extra time to do it, but since you are so broke (I mean, you are reading this blog, aren't you?) you probably don't have the money to go out and do anything fun.  So I would suggest giving a second job a try, at least for a little while.

You also do not have to necessarily work outside of your home for a second a job.  Did you know you can make money blogging, or answering questions, or writing articles?  It is possible!  You won't get rich quick, but you can sign up for Google Adsense or Amazon Affiliates and start making money.  There are several sites like Blogger, HubPages, and WebAnswers that will allow you to earn money in your spare time if you enjoy writing.

Last but not least, don't give up on trying to make money just by looking around your home.  Is there an old couch you are not using?  Are you never going to drag out that old computer monitor to use again at your house?  What about making crafts and selling them?  There are plenty of items you can probably sell right now.  The weather is getting warmer and you can think about a yard sale.  You can also sell at a craft fair.  Even if you don't feel like doing any of that, you can still post items on Craigslist.  So don't give up hope!

There are ways to pull in extra money and we can sure all need it right now.  And never forget, always look for sales and coupons to help save extra cash at the grocery stores!  Every penny adds up!

Walmart Etiquette

For those of you that love a good bargain, you have probably found yourself shopping at Walmart on numerous occasions.  If so, you've probably learned some people are extremely rude.  Let's face it - some people act like they were never taught manners a day in their lives.  And those people shop at Walmart. 

I do want to say, at least 75% of the people that shop at Walmart are normal, bargain shopping customers like everyone else.  Probably more than 75% most of the time.  However, there are the people that give Walmart a bad reputation.  If you are one of those people, yet you don't realize it, let me break it down for you.

When you are shopping at Walmart, do you:

1. Run into anyone with a cart?
2. Take up an entire aisle with a cart?
3. Block an entire aisle with a crew of people?
4. Stand around gossiping with your neighbor in an aisle?
5. Talk too loud on your cell phone?
6. Have loud conversations that involve too much drama?
7. Block others from getting simple items like bread or socks?
8. Leave dressing rooms too messy?
9. Yell at people from dressing rooms?
10. Leave the public restroom looking totally disgusting?
11. Bring rowdy children with you that destroy the store?
12. Stand in the Express Line with 50 items?
13. Wear pajamas or fuzzy slippers while shopping?

If any of these things sound like you, well then, you are an annoying Walmart customer.  While you are looking for your awesome, low-priced deals, you need to attempt to act like a civilized person.  If you want to learn more on the many rules of Walmart shopping etiquette, or for that matter, shopping etiquette in general, please check out the links below:

Walmart Shopping Etiquette 101
Dressing Room Etiquette 101
Women's Public Restroom Etiquette 101
Checkout Line Etiquette 101
Shopping Mall Etiquette 101

Valentine's Day Shopping for Less at Target

If you are into saving money, but also into getting something really cute for Valentine's Day, you need to drop by Target.  Target has some major Valentine's Day bargains at the store. 

Some of the many items available at Target right now for just $1 are:

Valentine's Day socks
Heart shaped containers
Gift bags
Tissue paper
Gift wrap
Valentine's Day pens
Valentine's Day pencils
Lotion
Shower gel
Small boxes of Valentine's Day candy

Also, if you venture into other sections at Target, you can find pink and/or red stuffed animals like frogs, bears, and puppies.  There are a ton of Valentine's Day party supplies at Target.  Not to mention candy, cards, candles, etc.  You can even find Valentine's Day picture frames, plates, blankets, cups, and more!

So if you are looking for some ultra-girly Valentine's Day items for your home, check out Target while they still have a lot of great stuff in stock. 

Safeway Savings This Weekend

Right now (January 18 - 24, 2012) Safeway supermarket is having some amazing deals.  If you live an area with a Safeway grocery store, I highly recommend visiting them.  First and foremost, you need to get a Safeway sales paper.  Not only will it tell you all the sales items, there are a number of incredible coupon deals.

If you are like me, you are probably already clipping coupons from the packets that come in the newspaper each weekend.  What you may not know is you can use the manufacturer coupons you find in the Sunday paper along with the store coupons at Safeway.  Also, if the coupon is below 99 cents or less, Safeway will double it.  This equals unbelievable savings right now.  It is a great time to stock up. 

I just came from Safeway and I would like to share some of the bargains I got:

V8 Fusion Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Regular price: $3.99

Safeway Club sale price: $2.49

Store coupon: - .50

Manufacturer's coupon: .75 doubled (total -$1.50)

TOTAL PRICE PAID: 49 cents!

If you know anything about V8 Fusion, you know this is an excellent deal.  Even when it is on sale at stores like Target or Walmart, the price rarely goes below $2.50.

Another example is:

Prego Vegetable Smart Pasta Sauce

Regular price: $2.99

Safeway Club sale price: $1.99

Safeway coupon: - .50

Manufacturer's coupon: - $1.00 (However, 2 jars had to be purchased to get this price, so it was 50 cents off per jar.) 

TOTAL PRICE PAID:  99 cents!

Even if you ordinarily shop at another grocery store, or perhaps you go to a discount store like Walmart for juice, pasta sauce, and that type of thing, you should give Safeway a try this weekend.  It is important to have the Safeway coupons and the manufacturer coupons, too.  If you do that, you will save way beyond what you would save at a discount store this weekend.

Some other sale and coupon items that are a bargain:

• Gatorade
• Nature Valley granola bars
• Hot dog and hamburger buns (Safeway brand)
• Morningstar Farms frozen foods
• Glad containers
• Tide
• Cheerios
• Pantene
• 7 Up
• Colgate
• Pop Secret popcorn
• Duracell

 In the end, I saved a total of 40% on my grocery bill.  I would have probably saved more if I did not buy a couple of items I absolutely needed, but were not on sale.  Happy shopping!

Save Money and Workout at Home

Since this is the beginning of a new year, many people are trying to workout.  People are often attempting to lose weight and get in shape during this time of year.  Instead of spending a bunch of money on a gym membership, you should try some exercise programs at home.

If you want to keep your money and lose your weight, you should check out some fun DVDs you can do at home.  For instance, Tae Bo is still a great way to stay in shape.  Billy Blanks can help you through the whole experience and you will feel good about yourself.  You can also try some of the Biggest Loser workouts.  They can be tough, but they are effective.  For the extreme beginner, the 10 Minutes Solutions series is a good option. Cindy Whitmarsh is an excellent instructor.

You might think the interaction is not the same when you workout at home verses the gym.  Although there is some truth to that, it is still fun to exercise at home.  The DVDs are pretty decent as far as giving you the same type of workout you would get at the gym.  Also, there is no one at your home to laugh at you if you happen to fall.  In a way, it is much better!

To learn more about some awesome workout DVDs, you can visit: The Best Workout DVDs