Miss Cheapskate

my essential tee solution

2010-07-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

Looking for some wardrobe basics? Is it tough for you to find stuff that fits you comfortably? I found a solution, for me anyway. I have an issue with shirt length, I'm just too tall and pants are cut too low for me to be comfortable in just any basics. And yes, there's the DownEast Basics and Shade options, but the material is too thick and too tight half the time. And the length isn't always consistent between different styles. So frustrated, took a tape measure to my favorite tee (one I found randomly at a Charlotte Russe a few years back) and measured the length from the top of the shoulder to the hem and discovered the right length for me is 27 inches - 26 works, and 28 is nice, but anything shorter than 26 is just not for me. Yay! So what do I do with this information? Well, 2 of my favorite retailers, Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe give the exact measurements of their tops, so now I can order with confidence, not looking at the picture and hoping it fits like it does on the model (never does though)! And THAT'S when I stumbled on my favorite find yet!

Forever 21 has a section on their site that's dedicated to inexpensive basics and essentials. So, I ordered my personal necessity, tees that were all 27" long and they were just what the doctor ordered. Nothing too thick or fussy, just simple tees that fit how I want and for $2.50 each!!! I could look at a top I thought would work, then check the measurements and discover it was an inch or two shorter than I like and move on easy peasy to the stuff that works. Which it does.

2010-02-15T12:25:00.000-08:00

How often do you get free shipping PLUS 20% (code: 34197998) your order? And yet, I can't find anything I want... dagnabit. Well, if anything tickles your fancy at Martin & Osa, that deal ends tonight! Happy sale-ing!
via seechloeshop.

The Awesome For Less

2010-02-14T13:43:00.000-08:00

Okay, so one reason why I haven't been posting copiously is that everytime I find something aswesome, it's usually via uberchicforcheap.blogspot.com and I don't want to be redundant. That blog is awesome by the way, definately stick it in your reader list. Also, I've been on a quest. I found a pair of shoes I HAD to have, but couldn't find anywhere in the world that had them in my size. Rampage Catalina t-straps in black - delish!

They just didn't exist in my size, anywhere!! So I've been going crazy trying to find something comparable. I wanted to spend $30 or under, but couldn't find anything as cute for the same price. UNTIL ----- I searched for black t-straps under Google Shopping. That service is awesome, it snaps up what's for sale in the same genre and gives me the option of searching by price - loved it. And I found these sick puppies:

Yeah!! They have the t-strap thing going on, plus the cool red accents. Fantastic - and - (drumroll please) I snagged them from k-mart online for $10.20!!! Normally $12, but there's some sale going on. Heck, if you pick up a pair this weekend, all shoes are 20% off so they're $9.60. You still have to pay shipping, but what a steal!! And I got them last week, wore them to church today. SUPER hott. I love a happy ending to a story :)

HOLY CRAP TULLE SALE!!!!!

2010-01-05T05:46:00.000-08:00

Okay, thanks to UberChic, I knew there was a Tulle sale today (why on earth they don't send me e.mails I don't know grrrr) but GO GO GO! It's just today, and I just snapped up some amazing deals for 3,4, and 5 bucks! You can get yourself adorable coats for just that much, but hurry, they're selling out of sizes quickly!!!

advice please!

2009-12-21T17:36:00.000-08:00

Um, so a friend gave me the coolest gift ever - GIFT CARDS!! She's such a sweetie, she gave me TWO! Now I need some advice on what to buy because I want to get the most out of 'em. She got me one to Aeropostale because I was bragging about these SWEET jeans I picked up there for $17 since the ENTIRE STORE is 50-70% off. I may jsut go pick up a few more pairs while they're on sale - they are seriously HAWT on me, and $17?!?! That's exactly what I like to pay for jeans :)

And she also gave me a giftcard to Gap - WOW! I don't shop there often because it can be pricey, but I love the classic style there. Any suggestions on what I should definately get from Gap? What is your favorite thing that they sell? I really want to get the most bang for my giftcard buck. The gift of shopping?! Best. Present. Ever.

Magazine deal!

2009-12-18T11:01:00.000-08:00

Here's a great last-minute gift for a woman in your life - today only, an entire year subscription to Woman's Day magazine - that's 15 issues, - for only $4.39! Heck... I'm tempted myself. I've been a good girl this year, and I can never have too much reading material for the powder room :)

Last Day for Wet Seal splurges!

2009-12-18T06:42:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day for FREE SHIPPING at Wet Seal with a minimum $15 purchase, soooo doable!

cheap teenybopper clothes!

2009-12-18T06:38:00.000-08:00

Aeropostale is having one heckuva holiday sale, everything is 50-70% off!! I know most of the store fits a pre-pubescent girl much better than child-bearing-years me, but if I dig enough I can find something I love for uber cheap, plus I can get something for the dude in my life. Not the girl stuff, they have dude stuff too. I actually leave near one (SHOCK!) so I think I need to head there and check out their skinny jeans for the winter for a cool $19.75. If you are in the mood to ship, it's free shipping for a minimun of $100... yeah, I'd rather drive too.

FREE SHIPPING DAY!!!!!

2009-12-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

Free Shipping Day is Thursday, December 17, 2009

664 participating merchants will be offering free shipping with delivery by Christmas Eve. The Free Shipping Day promotions for participating merchants will be revealed on Thursday, December 17 at 12:00AM EST. Some merchants may have minimum order restrictions. More than half will have free shipping on all orders.

ARE YOU READY?!?!?!?! GET PUMPED!!!!!

Joann.com sale

2009-12-15T13:31:00.000-08:00

I was just saying to myself how much I wished I could get to a craft store to pick up a few things, and blammo, FREE SHIPPING codes for Joann Fabrics! Woohoo! Use code ecd348. There's a list of a bunch of things on sale here for your perusal as well. Use it fast, don't know how long it'll be valid. Yay Slickdeals!

My Favorite Things - Ria Fashions

2009-12-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

One of my best friends is Indian, and I've always been taken with how flattering her clothing is. It's not clingy, but doesn't look dumpy, and it always looks classic. Plus, as a tall gal, the tops are long enough that you aren't constantly pulling your shirt down trying to cover your crack. I decided to try and find some Indian style tops for my shows with my band - which, although a celtic group, the tops are festive so I thought it could work. Ug, but the prices I found online! So expensive! I almost gave up, until I found the fabulous gem of Ria Fashions. The prices are so reasonable, most shirts from $10-19, with some fancier dress ones in there for nicer occasions for more, and still cheaper than anywhere else online. FREE US SHIPPING, too! I can't tell you how many compliments I get when I wear them! I wear them with jeans or skirts, they are a fabulous accent piece that make an outfit pop with minimal effort, and are sooooo flattering, yet hide everything I want hidden. In fact, I wore them as maternity tops too. No one could tell I was pregnant in them because they were so flowy, and when I went to church the week after I gave birth, I wore one of the tops and everyone was shocked with how flat my stomach looked! It wasn't, but the shirt covered it up perfectly! The only warning I'll give is that the material most of the shirts use - a French Crepe - does no stretch at all. Not an issue, exept my bustline expanded significantly after this last baby and the tops I had in my pre-babysize won't fit over my chest. No worries, just means I had to get some more:)

6pm.com awesomeness

2009-12-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

Holy SNAP, 6pm.com has some fantabulous deals going on! Some expire today, some not for another 5 days or so, but check it out! Deets here, but my favs: KangaROOS sneakers $16.95, DVS sneaks for $19.95, Michaels Kors 60% off, a TON of Type Z shoes for $9.95?! - it's seriously awesome. Methinks my feet need a comfy treat for Christmas.

ebay?!

2009-12-14T06:16:00.000-08:00

There are going to quite a few posts on this topic coming up... I think - THINK I just found a treasure trove in none other than eBay. I was trying to find some used leather boots to muck around in this winter, but no dice. Instead a found more than one retailer selling insanely cool designs from Asia for super cheap, some even free shipping. I mean, check this one out:

Click here to see more in purple, grey and white - and there's a gorgeous little rosette on it. So Dang cute! And it is... $2.99 with $1.99 shipping. $4.98. Seriously. Or this one:

That's here and is $16.99 with free shipping (as is everything at that particular store).

The catch is I'm not sure about sizing, most things I've found are only one size, but it details the measurements so you can check for yourself if it'll fit you. Some things on my amazonian frame will, like those 2 numbers, some won't, so that's the catch, you gotta be careful. I'll post some more finds later.. there are some SERIOUS doozies!

ON jammies!

2009-12-14T05:59:00.000-08:00

This week at Old Navy, jammies starting at $7 and save 20% on online orders!

Some people complain that Old Navy is low quality, but if you out (or under) grow/stain/get tired of your clothes quickly (guilty!), I think it's perfect.

Besides, you can never have too many pajamas.
-¢ath

I totally agree - I don't mind the cheapness because usually it's a style I'm not planning for years to come. And I've found some a-MAZing deals in the clearance racks. Also, it's one of the only retail stores withing 60 miles of me. *groan* Thanks for the link, Cath!!

I think the $7 flannel jammie pants are MINE. Are you aware it's gonna be 7 degrees tonight?!?!

Meritline.com - does it have merit?

2009-12-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

Um, so I'm cautiously writing this post because I am still waiting to see what the end result is. A few weeks ago my bro mentioned he didn't have a card reader for his computer, and so I mentioned to husband it'd sure be nice to get him one, and could he please find a deal somewheres on the web for me? Enter Meritline.com - where he found a dandy little one for $1.99, with FREE SHIPPING. Um, so where's the catch? It shipped pretty slow - the website says they ship from 2-5 days after purchase from Hong Kong and it'll take about 10 working days there, so for free you have to also be patient... which I am... and I will report back after he gets it.

The site is worth checking out - the variety is mind boggling. Tech stuff, jewelry, home & decor, beauty, and I'm severely tempted to order these usb powered heated gloves for $5.99, just for curiosity's sake. I mean, for FREE SHIPPING, I'd do almost anything. Seriously. AND they deliver to Europe too, *coughs in general direction of Switzerland*. The nice thing is they have user reviews on each product. I LOVE checking out feedback before I buy. Check them out, tell me what you think. I'm just so dang curious about this thing...

Well dressed deals!

2009-12-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

Love love LOVE the intrepid Cathie! She sent in this gem to me from Ann Taylor LOFT:

And for the bibliophile in your life, check out this deal by Deseret Book for today only:

The selection is chock full of those sweet Christmas-y things, heck, the website smelled like pine to me. I'm not kidding.

So MERCI Cathie, and do let me know when you find a faboo deal! Spam aside, it really does pay to be on e.mailing lists for stores you dig. There are gems to be had in them thar e.mails!

Yay for underpants!

2009-12-10T06:47:00.000-08:00

WOOHOO!! Today only, 12-10-09 FREE SHIPPING on any order from Victoria's Secret with the code FREESHIP. Can we say awesome?? Seeing as the temperature here has dropped to below %$#! zero, I think I need to get a few of their super soft sweaters on clearance. And perhaps gift for the girls? My uber favorite yoga pants came from VS - with free shipping as well, natch. Go have fun!!

New topic: Worth The Splurge

2009-12-09T20:05:00.000-08:00

So, we all like to get whatever we can on sale, clearance, whatever, but what have you purchased for full price that was worth every penny? I'll go first - Husband gave in a got me this amazing dress from Shabby Apple for my birthday, just 2 months after giving birth. First off, I have a MAD crush on Shabby Apple dresses. Their dresses are classic, well-made and this particular one hides my (too slowly)shrinking baby belly and doesn't even wrinkle when I travel. I'm pretty sure it's magic, like those travelling pants. And I can wear any accessory I want with it - even my purple tights! It was just around $100, but every time I put it on it makes me feel thin again and fantastic with almost zero effort and I know it'll be in my closet for years to come without going out of style. WORTH IT! I seriously would recommend it to any woman out there. It's MAGIC, afterall!

What was Worth YOUR Splurge?

Books and movies, oh my!

2009-12-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

http://www.retailmenot.com/view/borders.com

Borders 40% Off Any Single Item Regular Price + Free Shipping Coupons (and select DVDs for $7)- DUDE! That's some deal - I have a bibliophile on my list, so booya! Deets found at Slickdeals.

EDIT: The 40% expired today, but use code BSL7021A and you'll get 30% of any single item (it works, trust me). Free shipping still in effect. You can find a printable coupon for the 30% at retailmenot.com

OO, and wow, 6% back on Borders purchases with ebates.com!

Express coupon

2009-12-09T19:23:00.000-08:00

Express is offering a $15 off $30 / $30 off $75 coupon online or in store, expires 12/13/09. Shipping is $8. Not a shabby discount, methinks. Deets here on Spoofee.

(and 2.5% back with ebates.com!)

Don't forget about Etsy

2009-12-09T09:59:00.000-08:00

I ADORE checking out etsy.com, and seeing what people with actual skillz can come up with. I get my best gifts for people from there - things with personal touches, like guitar pick earings, cool laptop covers, you name it. They have everything. EVERYTHING. When I was pregnant with baby number 2, I was looking all over online to see about buying a Bella Band and I couldn't find one for under $25, some even more. It's an tube of fabric, people! As I scoped out etsy one day from maternity shirts, I ran into quite a few shops selling homeade ones from $8 and up. Much more reasonable, and it supports reg'lar folks like you and me! (well, not me, I have no skillz there). I bought a nice black one for $10 and it fit well and was fabulous. So for those little things - go check etsy out. They may just have what you need at a fraction of the price.

The seller I bought from doesn't exist now, but here's one shop of many with great ones in varieties of designs: http://www.etsy.com/shop/RunSystem63

CR Day 9

2009-12-09T09:46:00.000-08:00

Charlotte Russe has a few jewelry items for $2 today -all regularly $4 but hey, it's still 50%. And don't forget to do ebates.com to get 3% back!

Have yourself a merry little eRep

2009-12-09T05:36:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I get yet another FREE SHIPPING on ANY order e.mail through my eRep from Avon and I thought "dagnabit, I need to share the joy!" So I e.mailed Becky and she gave me the URL for her eRep site - http://www.youravon.com/rwright5285 and if you sign up for the e.mail list, you'll get all the specials and free shipping notifications - heck, she sends out a free shipping one at LEAST once a month. It would be ridiculous to shop Avon without one and all the savings they send! In my frozen white tomb, that's enough to warm my heart :) And I really think my next purchase needs to be this:

Yeah, a Hot Chocolate Maker. How awesome is that?!

Gee, jeans!

2009-12-08T19:28:00.000-08:00

Tis the season! FREE SHIPPING on ALL Levi.com orders through 12/21/09.

Smash frees!

2009-12-08T18:01:00.000-08:00

Sorry to be prolific with the make up stuffs today, but Smashbox has a smokin' deal (for them).
You can get a full-sized Cream Liner Palette for Free with any purchase when you enter code PALETTE at checkout. Free Shipping + Free jumbo sample + Free bonus sample with any order. That's a lot of frees! But even though it's on any order, all their stuff is pretty expensive, so the cheapest thing you'd get starts at $15 and goes up. But, if you were thinking of splurging and getting something fancy, I'd do it now.
Expires 12-27-09 (via)

6DollarShirts.com - geeky awesomeness.

2009-12-08T13:24:00.000-08:00

Have an oddball in your life you are trying to get a present for? The husband found this site looking for a shirt with the old Russian CCCP on it - 6DollarShirts.com. And as the name suggests, all the shirts are 6 bucks! From geeky to political to retro, to indie to eww (there's some gross ones on there, so keep away from the "Crude and Offensive" category), there's a shirt for every one on your list.

How can you beat that price?? Plus, if you want to buy blank tees, they have them in men's and women's sizing in a ton of colors, $3 of mens, $3.50 for womens. Dang, if you need blank shirts in bulk for an event, I can't think of a better price. There's also the $2.95 Random Mystery Shirt if you're feeling adventurous. And if you want to be creative and submit a design of your own, you could win $500 and $100 store credit. Cheap and hilarious, a fabulous gift for that weido - yourself or a friend!

Avon

2009-12-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

As a girl, I'd love leafing through my mom's Avon catalogs. Not just inexpensive make-up, there's fun jewlery, fashion and gifts! A few months ago someone put me on a e.mail list for an Avon representative, and I was shocked how many times I'd get a message about free shipping! So, I gave the site a shot and I love it! I'm not big into fancy names and expensive makeup, I like inexpensive options as I'm always changing my mind and style. Best part about the site? Honest user reviews on every product - I love that I can get so many opinions and info before I splurge on that $2 tube of lip gloss :)

So right NOW - it's FREE SHIPPING on a $10 order+ with an eRepresentative through 12-19-09 and besides the fun make up, the stocking stuffers for the kids are inexpensive and fabulous (so go find one!) My favorite? The Bath Body paint for only $1.89. Also, they are doing a 12 Days of Christmas thing and thought I couldn't find info on it anywhere but my personal e.mail, here's deal one for today:

And I think I'll strike on the stocking stuffers on Day 3, (12-10-09) and the fun colors sale on Day 5 (12-12-09):

Oh, and don't forget to check out ebates.com on any purchase you make from Avon - you get 5% back!

B&BW printable dealage

2009-12-08T06:43:00.000-08:00

If you're lucky enough to live anywhere near a B&BW, snap this one up - print out a coupon to get a free item up to $13 on a $10 purchase. Wowza! Might I suggest the Midnight Pommegranate? Expires 12-24-09 Store Locator here.

(via)

Crocs deal

2009-12-07T19:27:00.000-08:00

So, even though I find Crocs freakish looking, I've on occasion been tempted by their ballet flats.. look so comfy, so durable... but durable as they are, it's hard to justify spending $40 on rubber shoes. Or whatever space material they make those things out of.

But oh, even the siren song of FREE SHIPPING on all orders through the month of December is enough to draw even me to their clearance pages to see if there's anything worth getting... not really, but I'm so weirded out by these shoes (heels by Crocs? can't fathom!) that I almost want them in some twisted way. I'll resist though. I'm a fighter, dang it.

If you have kids though, I would suggest hitting up the Outlet. The clearance stuff is buy one get one 50% off, and durable squishy shoes that they can put on themselves are actually pretty dang practical on the wee ones.

*EDIT again* Thank Becky for checking out ebates.com - there's a 4% cash back on Crocs purchases!

Free shipping at Shade!!

2009-12-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

Woohoo!! Shade has FREE SHIPPING and an extra 25% off sale items through the 20th!! They're the original long shirt shop that has in recent years branched out into dresses, sweaters, and fashion tops. My closet has more than a few Shade items - I don't think I go a week without wearing something from them!

*Standard ground shipping only. No minimum purchase required. Valid through 11:59 pm MST on December 20, 2009.

Deal-a-day

2009-12-07T13:17:00.000-08:00

The deals this time of year just make me giddy! Charlotte Russe, one of my fav fashion-for-less retailers is having a deal a day up through December 12th and I love them all! Today there are a whole bunch of adorable shirts just $6. Flat-rate shipping of $5.99 and free returns, too.

*EDIT* Becky is so right! I forgot to check ebates.com! If you do any ordering from CR, don't forget to hop over to ebates and get 3% back!! Thanks!!!

$5 Mag Deal

2009-12-07T13:07:00.000-08:00

Amazon is having a magazine subscription sale from December 6th-12th: an entire year for just $5!

- Cosmopolitan
- Country Living
- Esquire
- Good Housekeeping
- Harper's Bazaar
- House Beautiful
- Marie Clarie
- Popular Mechanics
- Redbook
- Seventeen
- SmartMoney
- Town & Country

Last week I grabbed myself an entire year of Real Simple in their deal *swoons* If any of these seem like they'd appeal to a loved one, what a fabulous (and thrifty) Christmas gift!

Back in the saddle

2009-12-07T12:59:00.000-08:00

My need for deal-blogging came from living in rural-ish Brasil far from my favorite clearance racks and Tar-jays, so when we moved back to the states, this blog became moot. And after 2 years of living in my beloved 'burbs, we're back in isolation, this time in Middle Of Nowhere, Wisconsin. I don't even want to tell you how far the closest Target is, let alone an Ikea. So I'm back to blogging! I can't keep a good deal to myself and you win. You'll notice the layout is revamped and I put some links up on the side there of my favorite haunts. Feel free to suggest more sites to add, I'd loooove to have 'em!

So, missed you, and let's get on to the hunt!

Free shipping, woohoo!

2008-05-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

I don't know how long this is good for, but go check it out if you can! I was just surfing wetseal.com looking for the perfect v-neck tee, when I found just what I wanted - and they were 2 for $10! And then after a quick trip to retailmenot.com (thanks Chelsea!!!!) I found a free shipping code for all orders!!

1107WLCE

So I got 2 fabulous shirts, NO shipping - the total was $10.60 total!! I don't know how long the offer is good for, so go check it out asap!!

Another freebie from Brylane...

2008-03-24T17:26:00.001-07:00

On the same token as the free sewing machine, Brylane Home is also offering a free patchwork throw with any purchase right now, good through April 15th, 2008. I can't help it, I'm a sucker for Brylane's "free with ANY purchase" promotions. I don't know if I need a patchwork throw, but you might!
Use this code: BHFREETHROW

(I've gotten a free fondue pot and free sewing machine from these offers:)

essential tees, essential prices

2008-03-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I'm a tall gal who has trouble finding shirts that cover me up. If the shirt is long, it is low up top, and if it is modest on the top, it's too short on the bottom. GAH. There's a bunch of awesome resources now for us to be modest AND hott. First off there's Shade, who are the original and best at covering tees (there is a seriously asweosme $6 and $8 clearance sale going on right now!) AND on any purchase you make, use the code CAL7266 to get 5% off - that's my good friend's code, she's a personal shopper and is my hook-up to all their sales!

I also found this sale today - Jil Designs is selling all their cap sleeve modest t's (the long kind, bless em:) for $6.99 right now - and on the skirt front there's 2 adorable skirts for sale too for under $10, as well as a good plus size collection for $8.99 and lower.

Methinks I needs to do some shopping:)

Toys!!!

2008-02-19T09:17:00.000-08:00

Toygroove.com has a clearance sale on Disney Digital Cameras, Video Cameras, Digital Photo Frames, MP3 Players, and Video Players. It's SO time to stock up on some gifts for your kiddos (and for you!) Oh, and the video players take SD cards so you can stock up on cards and load movies on them, or buy their pre-loaded cards!!

Disney Mix Max - Cheetah Girls - 64% off - $34

Best Price online - $89.00 at kbtoys.com

Disney Mix Max - Pirates of the Carribean - 50% off - $48

Best Price online - $75.00 at bestbuy.com

Disney Flix Digital Video Camera - Black - 60% off - $35

Best Price online - $99.00 at bestbuy.com

Disney Digital Picture Frame - Cars / Pirates of the Carribean - 50% off - $45

Best Price online - $99.00 at toysrus.com

Disney Mix Stick - Pirates of the Carribean 1G MP3 Player - 60% off - $19

Best Price online - $39.00 at Best Buy.com

Disney Pix Max - Stars 3 MP Digtial Camera - 50% off - $38

Plus LOTS more… My personal fav is the MP3 player on a charm bracelet for a cool $25:) So go stock up!!

Free Mini Sewing Machine

2008-02-13T07:39:00.000-08:00

Found this at Slickdeals:

Brylane Home has a coupon code BHSEW4U for a free Mini Rex Sewing Machine with any purchase. Machine will be added automatically when you apply the coupon code. Shipping starts at $5.

Best part is, I have always wanted to learn how to sew and that is a fabulous excuse! (hello?? It's RED??) I bought some towels for $4 since you can't have too many when you have a messy baby, and I got a free sewing machine!! A year ago, my husband got a free fondue pot for me from Brylane with their same type of promition, and all he did was purchase some matress clips, which actually came in handy a few months later.

I checked the reviews for the produce on Amazon and thye are mxed, but I figure for free, it's a great place to start!!

Chelsea is a sexy beast!

2008-02-13T07:31:00.000-08:00

Chelsea is a freaking SAINT! She sent me these awesome e.mails weeks ago and will all the family trauma, I haven't been checking myu e.mail like I should. But thye are so wonderul, I must share them with y'all!!

1) http://www.retailmenot.com/ I'm all about coupon codes for ANYTHING I buy online. This one seems to have a great number of coupon codes. Usually if I can't find anything just through a google search, I try Retail Me Not. which leads me to #2 -

2) http://www.ebates.com/If you sign up through the link below:

www.ebates.com/doublebonusoffer/index.htm?id=33318165

I'll get $10 when you sign up and YOU'LL get $10 when you sign up through my email address: chelseacc at the hotmail and then make your first purchase. (Typically you get a $5 bonus from a referral but they're running a promotion.) So Ebates is an awesome site where you go shopping online at the same stores you usually do, but if you go to ebates and then to another site (overstock.com, for example) and follow the link to Overstock, you'll get an additional 4% rebate on your purchase. AND you can use promo codes (retailmenot.com) in addition to this option. The $10 referral is only available until Feb 14th, so sign up your first account with my email address and then send out referalls to all yours and get bookoo bucks after they make their first purchase through Ebates. *if you want more details on why they'll give you money, go here: http://www.ebates.com/help/how_ebates_works.htm?navigation_id=18452 I gave my sis this bargain yesterday and instead of spending $420 on an armoire, she got it for $379, PLUS she'll get a check in the mail from Ebates for $15 from her purchase at overstock and $10 referral signup - she's getting it for $355! I should be the favorite sister.

3) http://www.todaysdod.com/This is an awesome site that shows all of the hot bargains of the day from a number of sites, including Woot and Ihavetohavethat.com. They tell you how many hours are left for the deal, what the sellout likelihood is and how hot the link is.

Shoot! I should have looked at this earlier - but I'm totally signing up on ebates anyway. THANKS CHELSEA!!!!!!!!

The Swiss Knife of MP3 Players

2008-01-19T09:21:00.000-08:00

Right after my daughter was born, my husband gave me a RCA Lyra 2780 MP3/Video player. He found it for about $120 on Woot! and got it for the following reasons:

*20 GB is nothing to sneeze at.

*I can store all kinds of files on it - I have a whole folder of pictures to show off to friends, it has videos, I play songs, I'm sure there's even more I can do, and options are nice!

*There's a TV out and TV in capability. I can play things on the TV if I connect my Lyra to it - but I can also record videos on it STRAIGHT FROM THE TV.

So, he loaded some of my favorite TV shows on it and I would watch it in the middle of the night as I fed my daughter. It was such a great gift and I loved it. Now, I listen to music on it, but a few months ago I started a-thinking... I plugged it into my VCR and recorded a Baby Einsten on it. Just watching the hypnotizing video would calm my daughter anywhere, anytime! I didn't put the headphones on her of course - she's just 1! But a few months ago, I found a small set of speakers at the Dollar Tree that I plug right into the headphone jack and I can play it for her with the sound any time. Heck, I recorded some episodes of Sesame Street onto it from the TV and tied a string around the headrest of the seat in front of her in the car, hung it on it (there's a clip in the back on the cover of the player) and it's a really portable, really handy video player for her that I can take anywhere since all I need is the player and the mini speakers!

Last night she was going crazy at the restaurant we were at, and we sat it up on the table in front of her (it has a stand built in of the back so it can stand up) with the sound low so only our table could hear, and she sat peacefully for 40 minutes while we all ate dinner together! We still talked to us, ate and played, but when we wanted to watch and get a distraction it was there and my hubby and I enjoyed a conversation together:)

Cons: The battery life isn't great, but I just keep it plugged in with the car adapter that comes with it and the rest of the time is fine. Also, I don't know if the software that comes with it works with Vista yet, so I saved it on my older desktop. It can also be tricky to load some video files from your computer, but it's pretty easy usually.

SO I say, go find one! There are places on the internet to get deals on 'em, and it was TOTALLY worth it. I love it for a mazillion of reasons, mostly now a easy baby distracter, but I also get to use it myself as often as I can.

Best store for you tech needs

2007-12-05T18:44:00.000-08:00

Whoops, sorry its been so long! I'm busy trying to NOT spend money while I get ready for the holidays. But when I do finally decide to splurge, it'll be a on a deal of course!

ANywho, I don't know if I've mentioned this here before, but with the holidays upon us, there's lots of picture taking, and the cheapest place to get a SD card for your camera is hands down, MicroCenter. We've gotten them there as low as 1GB for $10, but even $15 is a steal. See if there's a store near you - it's the best store for tech deals. We got our video camera there, my laptop, you name it. SD cards are so expensive in Brasil, last year my husband had to go there during our Christmas vacay when we were back in the states and buy 1o for different people in his office. It made the 15 hour flight worth it:)

YAY MicroCenter!!

oooo, prizes???

2007-10-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

Oh SNAP!! My fav baby-on-the-cheap site (babycheapskate!) had this link up - this is now my official web addiction - http://prizey.blogspot.com/ - links to different freebies and contests on the web. It tells you the "hoops" you have to jump through the get them - like e.mailing them or leaving a comment on a blog or whatever.

Hey, if Im going to waste time on the web, I might as well waste it with the possibility to win stuff!

Hackety hack!

2007-10-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

4 of my FAVORITE websites that help me hack my way through life:
http://www.familyhack.com/
http://lifehacker.com/
http://www.parenthacks.com/
http://ikeahacker.blogspot.com/ (this one gives ideas on different things to try with Ikea items - fab!)

Well anywho, there is arecent post on familyhack that is AWESOME on getting kids clothes on the cheap and the bunch of links to Amazon sales lists is my supppppper favorite!! 99 cents for a sweater??? AMEN!!!!

gifty cookies+free shipping= YUM

2007-10-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

Again, what's with me being such a free shipping sap? But seriously, I get sucked in with it every time. Today, I'm craving cookies and sending gift-stuffs (it's close to Christmas, I can't help it!) and I stumbled on this:

Seriously delicious looking stuff, but free shipping is what makes my knees weak. It's my Achilles Heel, if you will:)

Free shipping. My favorite words!!

2007-10-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

So there's a new kids clothier that is an off-shoot from Gymboree, but less expensive (figuratively, we all know Gymboree is not cheap!) - and for a limited time, FREE SHIPPING!!! I love that:) Go check out Crazy8.com!

Framed

2007-09-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to put up some posters in the basement, but dangit I can see myself framing them when poster frames can be so expensive, and I don't want to ruin thema nd just nail them to the wall. But this is a great option - poster hangers. A strip goes on the top and the bottom, easy and done. And they are just about $3 each! That's money I can handle:)

Cheapest everyday photos!

2007-09-17T11:12:00.000-07:00

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think I have found the best onlie or aywhere price for photo develops... $.10 every day?? Go check them out at Yorkphoto.com This just make my day:)

9 cent prints!

2007-09-05T18:31:00.000-07:00

So, you've probably logged on and got an account with Snapfish just to get all those free prints. Now what? Well, now until Sept. 8th, the prints for existing account members

is just 9 cents a print! That's cheap, yo! Get all your pictures from the summer did and end the season right Use the code CLOUD9 when ordering.

http://www.snapfish.com/photolibrary/otsc=YES/otsi=cloud_9

Enjoy!

UPDATE:

Just found all these other tasty codes for Snapfish products at http://www.babycheapskate.blogspot.com/:

25% off memory books with code AFFMEMBK0907 (exp. 10/1)

20% off your order with code CCABSEP07 or XPCOUPONSEP07 (exp. 10/2)

$5 off $15 purchase with code AFF15PURCH (exp. 10/1)

Free shipping on 10 4x6 prints with code AFF10SHIP07 (exp. 10/1)

20 free prints plus free Flipbook for new members (exp. 9/30)

.99 Shipping credit with code CCRAZE99 or XPCOUPON99 (exp. 10/2)

Candy!!

2007-09-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

Yay for Chelsea (and Olaf, of course - the greatest reader a blogger could ask for!!) and the deals they let us in on. Today, Chelsea turns y'all onto candy!!

So I found this awesome free candy bar offer. (Nestle) It tells
you how many are left that they're giving away (kind of nice) and if you
continue through the quiz they give you an additional buy one get one coupon to
boot.
http://www.playinyourday.com/
Share the love (after requesting one each for you and Jared and Solei
-- can't share, right?)

Note - they give out 2,000 a day, but you have to do it between 9-5pm Pacific Time.

Wooho!!! I'm off!!!

Dang. Cropped. Jacket.

2007-09-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA, lately, every free second on the web has been spent trying to find a blasted cropped jacket for this strapless dress I bought this past summer. Everyone wears these (except for you, Olaf;) but dagnabit, NOONE sells them!! This post is just to brag that I found the faboo jacket at Wet Seal for under $20 after spending almost all bleeping month looking for it. For verrrry trendy clothes and accessories at cheap prices - I always go first to:
www.charlotterusse.com
www.forever21.com
www.wetseal.com
www.sammoon.com (for jewlery, bags, etc.)

Where do you go?

Thanks, SJP!

2007-08-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

Am I the last person to hear about this??? Sarah Jessica Parker has a clothing line out where nothing is priced over $19.98. And it's cute, dagnabit!!! You can only buy them and Steve & Barry's stores for now but keep your eye out as they are promising to do online shopping soon.

I love the tagline - "Fashion is not a luxury, it's a right" - I agree!!!!

Prettiness!

2007-07-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned it before, and yes we alllll love it, but I thought I'd remind you again about everybody's favorite make-up store, ELF - the $1 for everything play (drools).... I just went and got me some new fun eye shadow shades and for the price of maybe 2 colors at any other store, I got 10, woohoo!!! And check out these freebies:

•Pick your complimentary Product, free with any $10 order. (cannot be combined with any other offer)
A.)Free Cell Phone Lip Gloss charm. Coupon:CHARM
B.)Free Conditioning Balm. Coupon:BALM
c.)Free SOothing Lip Gloss. Coupon:GLOSS

Pick your FREE gift!

(I already have the cell charm and LOVE the colors!) GO pretty people!!

*Oh, and...*
Don't forget this Plumping Lip Glaze - it's my favorite splurge - puffy lips for $1??? Cheap is sooo sexy ;)

freebies!

2007-07-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

Yay, freebis from our favorite local cheapskaitin' supporter Olaf!!

Free 3M Post-Its!!

Oo, and a free subscription to a Gourmet, Home or Food mag!

MERCI Olaf!!

Frimp!

2007-07-18T06:10:00.000-07:00

OOooo, our master shopper Chelsea (and Etsy goddess!) has given the heads up to a cool site - Frimp, the online yardsale! In her words:

Looks to be a bit like CL, but not as good, yet. something to keep an eye out for.

Hey, I can use as many outlets as I can find to get cheap furniture! Thanks, Chelsea!!

nifty surprise!

2007-07-17T06:52:00.000-07:00

Don't know about where you live, but yesterday my trip to Target yielded the coolest surprise - the Dollar Spot was 50% off!!!!!!!!! Hope it is for you - heck, I gotta go back!!!!!!!

Yay toys!!

2007-07-03T15:40:00.000-07:00

Quick!!! Just till July 8th there's a massive 75% of sale online at Toys R Us. Lots of stuff is sold out, but I just bagged a few board games for less than $3 and a Mickey Mouse boombox for my bebe's room for $12.50!!

Dang, she's not old enough to use all these toys, but I sure am;)

Best. Shoe. Sale. Ever.

2007-06-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

RUN don't walk!!! DSW shoes is having a huuuuge sale - with a whole bunch up to 80% off. I got some amazing shoes originaly $40 for $8, fabulous ones. I can't say enough about it, go, go go!!!!!!

PS I found a pair of adorable Keds that were navy and with $40 off, were still $21 and I just couldn't bring myself to do it. But then I found a white pair of the same shoe (I preferred it anyway) 80% off - they were $7!!!!!!! I'm still doing a happy dance!

See what I do for you??

2007-06-20T09:23:00.001-07:00

When I moved to Geogia, I googled my favorite restaurants and retail stores to see what I could expect to find. And 3 years ago, there was ONE Jamba Juice in the entire state. But I found it and went to it plenty of times beforfe some weird company bought it out and ruined the dream. So I have no Jamba Juice, and yet I still let you have the link for a buy-one-get-one-free coupon good until July 7th, 2007?? Heck, I'm even giving you a link for store locations!

You can say it. I'm so wonderful.

Cheaskatin' for babies

2007-06-19T17:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, another one for those of us with little 'uns. BabyCheapskate is a mommy blogger and every week in addition to the deals she finds, she also scopes aroundto find the best prices on diapers and formula. You want to know how much your brand of choice is at Target, or CVS, Walmart, etc.? SHe's got them, plus there are links to find the ads and deals at your local stores.

That's some smart mommy-ing ;)

Decorlicious!

2007-06-19T16:52:00.000-07:00

My buddy Chelsea has equal love of the deal, and she just also happens to be all crafty and creative. This is a plug for her Etsy shop - CheaperByTheDozen. She made me an adorable sign for my daughter's bedroom, she just don't stop with them creations, and her prices are just right. She still just charged me a cool $5. Heh, for my own custom art?? Go check out the eye candy - you rule, Chelsea!!

Smells like gambling!

2007-06-19T16:42:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, found another site like woot (details about the funnest site on the planet here) but I just stumbled on IHAVETOHAVETHAT.com and it looks like the same idea. Hey, it's like playing a free lottery, might as well add it to your list, Olaf!

Cheap List

2007-06-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

We all have places that we like to buy certain things, because we know the prices are better. Hey, as veteran cheapskates, we don't just take what one store has to offer! So I thought it would be neat (with your help, please!) to compile a list of the best places we know to get our everyday and not-so-everday items.

Cleaning products- Dollar Tree
Moving into a new place, I needed lots of glass cleaner and the like all at the same time. A trip to Dollar Tree fixed that for super cheap!

Comfy PJs - Target
Love the selection, love the prices.

Tall Floor lamps - Wal-Mart
We just moved into a place without lots of light fixtures and needed some quick fixes to light up our rooms, and dagnabit Wal-Mart had ones for less than $9!

HARRY POTTER BOOK #7!!!!!! - Costco or Sams Club
If you want to stay up all night and pay Barnes and Noble prices for the last book, be my guest, but for cheapos who love their sleep, you can get them the day it comes out for around $10 cheaper than anywhere else. Nope, don't have to pre-order, just head to your local store and there will be a huge pile waiting for you. I did it for book 6 and it was awesome!

Travel-Size Toiletries - Walmart and Target
Ahhh! I'm messing with you! But isn't it true? Wal-mart has the basics for $.88 and Target has them for $.99. But Target has more selection and more fun things that you wouldn't plan on needing (but once you see them, you KNOW you need them, right?) I suggest stocking up on travel-sized necessities first at Wal-mart (like shaving cream, containers for expensive lotions and pills) then head to Target and get the fun (mostly cosmetics) stuff.

Shower Pouf -Wal-mart
At the Dollar stores they are a dollar. Not bad except you know they are not worth a whole 100 cents. 88 cents seems better to me.

Socks - Wal-mart
You know a big pack o' tube socks and such? And as Stephen COlbert says, since it is their policy to not prosecute any theft worth lass than $25, they are basically freeee!! (you know I'm kidding, right?)

Tower Fans - Big Lots
They are faboo and little ones can't get their fingers stuck in them. I shopped around and I got ours for under $20 so all is cool and frugal in our home!

Storage bins - Ikea
Plastic bins to put toys, craft things in and such? Ikea, $.99 in cool colors.

Produce - your local grocery store
No matter where I go, the best price and selection is always at my Kroger. Sometimes I get lucky at an Asian market or at a Trader Joe's or Whole Foods, but usually the most convenient and decent prices I find are at a reg'lar grocery store.

Baby Formula - Wal-mart
I don't scrape around for coupons, the Parent's Choice brand is about $11, whereas the reg'lar brands are about $25. Hmmm... easy choice!

Danielle's List:

(she was shopping at Target when she called me to give me some items for her list, obviously;)

Trident Spearmint Gum - Target
Wal-mart doesn't even carry it. Weidos.

Cotton Balls- Target
Dani is apparently very picky about her cotton balls because other store brands feel more plastic-y and not enough cotton-y to her. She called me from Target and gave me the rundown of their prices in her San Antonio store:
100 for $.89
200 for $1.67
300 for $2.29

Underoos - Target
Better selection, last longer. Maybe it's the brand there, is it Fruit of the Loom? Regardless, I've seen this petite 20-something rock a pair of Batman underoos and it is a sight to behold.

Now join in and tell me what your favorite places are for stuff!! I'll add it here so check back for updates!

Chelsea's Tip:

Sparkling Cider (aka Mormon Champagne) - Big Lots
They don't carry it at the $ store, $3+ at Walmart, but $1.50 at Big Lots! Chelsea says stock up during the summer for the holiday tipsies!

Yankeefied

2007-06-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

Oooo, now I have more things to look forward to in the year - Yankee Candle not only HAS a Semi-Annual Sale, they are having their Semi-Annual Sale right now! Use code ASF34 to save $5 off $20+. Shipping is a $6 flat rate for orders under $100. There's probably a store in a mall near you too, so here's the store locator for ya.

Some sale items:

Tarts $1
Samplers $1
Car Jar Air Fresheners $1
Votive Holders $3
Tea Light Holders $3
3.7 oz Jars $5
Fragrance Oils $5
Tea Lights and Pillars $5
Electric Fragrancers Units & Refills $5
Potpourri $7
Jar Shades $7
Other Accessories for $7

Wheee!!!!!!!!!

She's got leeeegs!

2007-06-09T15:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is not a craft blog, but this post shows how I saved myself $12-$20 plus shipping, heh heh. I am a mom to one very wiggly 8 month old daughter, and I recently got all geeked out about the product Baby Legs, basically, leg warmers for babies. It's a great idea, since you can leave them in a onesie and put them on and you can change their diaper without tugging pants off of them and they still have warm legs - although right now I'm less worried about warmth and more about keeping her from scratching up her knees as she crawls all over the place.

But oh, the pain of looking at all these cute thingys and knowing that the soft rainbow ones I wanted were $20.... good golly, I wouldn't spend that much on leg warmers for me!

And then I remember - I have these rainbow toe socks from my "cool" college days that the toes are getting worn out. The solution - cut 'em off and let her go to town!!The unwanted toes.

Then I really couldn't get a good shot of her in them since she wouldn't stop moving, but here's my brag shots anyway:

So, instead of paying $20 I just recycled some old socks:) It can be done with reg'lar ones too, just find some long socks and cut it at the heel.

Color me smart!

Buck love

2007-06-07T11:43:00.000-07:00

This post isn't news, but I must admit one of my favorite parts about returning to the states was.... the dollar. Yes, the idea that just one dollar could get me a can opener (did you know they were at least $20 in Brasil?? Seriously!!) or just about anything for a luau and cards and cups and dish detergent... oh, I do love the dollar and what it can get me.

So yeah, you know about Dollar Tree .... can't say much more about it. We all know it freaking rocks. And then there's the dollar spot at Target - ooo, right now there's a bunch of great outdoor games and bubble things, and Simpsons memorabilia... as I said, this is not news. Just wanted to make a small tribute to all the things we can get for a dollar in this great country!

So here it is... in haiku form!!

entering for socks

then finding shirts and loofas

Twenty bucks buys lots!!

Ahhh... you can buy lots of stuff but they still don't sell talent:)

Work it!

2007-06-07T07:33:00.001-07:00

When I was preggo, I wanted to exercize but running hurt and was too high impact, and joining a gym was too much commitment and cost. I did love using an eliptical machine back in the college days what with the low impact on the joints and such, but when I went to health stores to find them, they were always $1,000 and up. The answer?

Yup, Walmart had just the machine and it was just over $200. Now that's a splurge I can handle - I used it every morning as I watched the tube(healhy pregnancy, woohoo), and once we finish all this dang unpacking, I'm going to have loads of fun with it again!

Check out the options there - cheaper than a gym, a easy and great way to get your heart rate up and stay healthy while at home.

Free rootbeer float night!!

2007-06-06T18:10:00.001-07:00

Whew! Speaking of free, don't forget, tomorrow June 7th from 8pm-midnight Sonic Drive-In restaurants are kicking off summer with free root beer floats!! Then, after that they are only $. 99 (for the duration of the summer I think?)

too... awesome.... speechless from joy.......

Birthday stuff

2007-06-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

It's the husband's birthday (Thursday)!!!!!!! So, he was wondering what the payoff was, since many places have freebies for birthday boys and gals. I am so the right person to ask:)

I already blogged about free Coldstone, so that's one place to hit. Baskin Robbins has a birthday club too, so wheee, lots of brain freeze for your birthday! There's also a free burger at Red Robin and.. well, there's tons of stuff. You can check out a list at CaliforniaFreebies.com (not just for Cali folk) and a huuuuge list at Spoofee.com.

Celebrate, c'mon!!

Update - and anonymous tip for another treat at Macaroni Grill!

Macaroni Grill - smothered chocolate cake for .01 on your birthday. Yep,
one penny. I had it tonight. It was delicious. Thanks for sharing your tips - we
also signed up for the Cold Stone free birthday thing. My husband enjoyed it
last night and I'll have mine this weekend.

Gift survivalist

2007-06-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know this is about 6 months early, but I thought I'd blog about it while it was fresh in my mind. I like to stockpile gifts to give to people, so after Christmas I like to hit the stores and grab all the "gift set" clearance I can find. Then throughout the year, if I find out it's someone's birthday or they need a pick-me-up I'm covered.

Yes, I'm just that awesome.

Anywho, the best place I've found is Joanne Fabrics right after Christmas. Stuff is 75% off (and sometimes more) right and left - I get candle sets, beauty stuff, journal/pen sets, all packaged as gift sets with bows already on 'em. Their gift wrap and bows are on sale as well. I'll remind y'all about it later, just spreading the joy now.

(By the way, here's a link to their clearance page... because you can't resist:)

Flash for less cash!

2007-06-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

Um, so holy crap, just after I typed up the last post I saw this deal at spoofee.com:

Buy.com has the 4GB Sandisk Cruzer for $18.69 shipped after rebate.
Item has
a rating of 4.5/5.0 from 34 reviews.
Pricegrabber Price : $40 ~ $115 Shipped
1. Click here and click on "Redeem Coupon"
2. Search and Add
SDCZ6-4096-A10 ( Price : $51.25 )
3. Rebate Price : -$30.00 ( Exp : 06/10/07 )
Final Price :
$18.69 Shipped After Rebate

Less than $20 for a 4 Gig flash drive????

Why are you still here???

Microcenter is sooo dreamy.

2007-06-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

Your camera needs SD cards, you need a flash drive to take info all over, these are just normal everyday needs. How much have YOU paid for one of these handy dandy little items? I have a fiend that was soo excited for getting a 1GB flash drive for $25. Ha! laughs the MissCheapskate. You call that a deal?? I shall show you a deal!

Microcenter is just about the chepest and best store to get your tech-type stuff, and they have 1 GB flash drives for a cool $9.99, and I've gotten 2GB SD cards there for $14.99. If you are lucky enough to live near one, go check the store out - I'm typing this on a laptop I bought there! They do ship though, so search away.

Now don't you look ~~geeky~~ smart.

Free kids movies all summer long!

2007-05-31T07:49:00.000-07:00

Weeeee!! This link was on one of my favorite sites, ParentHacks (Which in itself is an awesome site to know) - Free summer kids movies!! I wanna go right now!!!

Coupon books make me happy.

2007-05-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

You are already checking out a website with the word Cheapskate in it so I can easily assume you have no problems using a coupon. Yay, the 2007 Entertainment book (that big fat thing with all the coupons in it) is now $9.99 plus shipping, down from $27.99 Lots of fun buy-one-get-one-free goodness and miniature golf rounds and cheap movie tickets and whoopee!! Go check out what is available for your town here.

And then go mad with coupon-y goodness!

Calling all tall girls

2007-05-25T13:56:00.001-07:00

Okay, I may be a little behind the times here, but being an Amazonian woman, I figured that to get a pair of jeans I loved and that would reach the floor, I had to spend at least $50 at the Gap. But ah-ha, not so. I'd previously gotten jeans from Old Navy before and they'd all ended up making me look like a freaking sailor. But yesterday as I was mucking around our local ON, trying to use up my Mother's Day gift card, I discovered that Old Navy jeans have not only gotten cooler over the years, they also have short, regular and LONG sizes!!! And may I say, I look so super hott. The most expensive ones were about $29.95 and mine were a cool $25, which is a fair price for something I'll end up wearing every day. Oh yeah, and my tush looks INCREDIBLE in them.

Just thought you'd like to know ;)

PS It's flip flop season too, and they also have the best selection of $5 and under flops in the land.

Semi-Annual Sale!!!!

2007-05-25T07:11:00.001-07:00

It's finally here!!! The semi-annual sales at Bath and Body Works and Victoria's Secret!!!! Mar your calendars, people - June 4th, 9am. If you are of the female persuassion, I'd head to Victoria's first because it's usually packed and you wanna get there to get your size before it's gone. But then, off to Bath and Body Works and go back often, because each week has new sales and such for 3-4 weeks. Some sales I've gleaned so far:

$1 Glycerin Soaps
$1 NEW! Signature Collection Freshwater Cucumber & Sea Island Cotton 2 oz Body Lotion
$2 Select Lip Products (save up to $4)
$3 First Time Ever! ALL Signature Collection Creamy Body Wash & Shower Gel (save up to $6.50) (June 4-6 Only!)
$4 Signature Collection Classic Fragrances (Select Fragrances)
$5 All Wallflowers® Starter Kits and Refills (save up to $7.50) (June 4-10 Only!) - this is a GREAT deal!
and up to 75% off select items

Ask the employees what next week's sale will be because what you want might be on sale then. And stock up for gifts to give throughout the year - who doesn't like smelling purty?? It's the happiest day of the year, people!!!

Airline Experiment

2007-04-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Just heard about this new airline out of Columbus, OH called Skybus that is breaking a heckuvalotta rules when it comes to airlines. Tickets can cost as low as $10 one way. Not a typo. They cut corners everywhere, they don't even have a phone number! You pay for extras you want, like $5 to check in a bag, or for food on the plane, or my personal favorite, $10 to load onto the plane first. They only fly to a few airports now, but if it works out, it could get verra interesting. If you live in any oth these cities you should check it out:
Boston (Portsmouth, NH), Columbus, OH, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Greensboro, NC, Kansas City, MO, Los Angeles (Burbank, CA), Richmond, VA, San Francisco (Oakland, CA), Seattle/Vancouver (Bellingham, WA)

If I did, I'd sure try a weekend getaway just to see what the fuss was about!

nice nails

2007-04-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it has been an insanely long time since I posted, but I DID just move back to the states and I'm going through some delightful culture shock. All the shopping available!! SO many deals to be had! Don't know where to start!!!

Buuut, I will start here. I was at Wal-Mart the other day shopping around for nail polish - when I stumbled on a deal. I must use the quick drying stuff or it's a waste, I mess everything up before it dries. But that's usually the most expensive stuff, and most of the colors I found in those brands were blah blah.

And theeennn, haha! I spied the Rimmel brand (you know, the London look) had a new 60-second drying polish in faaabulous colors for around the $1.50 mark! There was also a sparkly version with glitter that was a about dollar more (which I got, I mean it's still a splurge if it's under $3, mmhmm).

So go get your digits all shiny! Goooooo!!

Chaaalllllkboard!!!

2007-03-23T18:53:00.000-07:00

Holy crap. Martha Stewart RULES this one people!! Who else has headed through Home Dept and noticed chalboard paint and had the desire to paint something in their house with it so you'd have a chalkboard door or wall?

Martha figured out how to do it without having to buy really expensive chalkboard paint (it is pricey) - you can do it with any color paint you want, too!!! Check it out!!

Oh, and the best price you'll get on paint is at Walmart - I talked to an employee once there, who told me that most of their brands are actually made by the big paint companies you'd find at Home Depot. IIIiiiinteresting. Dang, I need another house so I can do this...

Some kiddie links

2007-03-23T18:36:00.000-07:00

Found a new website the other day with some great parenting idears - ParentHacks.com. Lots of delish ideas for anyone, really!

And One the lovely Scrumdillydo, the had the coooolest idea for easy and cheap tub foam!! (you know, that stuff kids can use to write on the walls of the tub during bathtime that washes off, fun but over-priced?) Colored shaving cream - and she's got oodles of ideas to use it with too! Enjoy!

The Doctor is IN!

2007-03-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

Oh good golly, I know I am an old woman and when I was in my cool years, Doc Martens were IT. I still have my pair of red patent leather boots - that my mother has stolen. Of course... she DID pay for them... Well, now I can get my OWN Docs, and so can you since they are having a faboo $20 and $30 sale right now! (with free shipping!!!) Go, snap 'em up and be cool. Like me. Ten years ago. I mean it - I WAS cool! My mom has pictures.

Announce yourself

2007-03-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Heeeeelllllloooooooooooooo .............. ?????????????

Sorry for the long hiatus, the cross-planet move has taken more out of me than previously thought, but I have already partaken on the delights of American deals. Gaahh, Target $1 Spot, anyone???

Now for now, here's a DUH moment - but I thought I'd post it anyway. If you are in the market for business cards, there's VistaPrint - the freeeee business card online peoples. 250 free really customizable cards that look fabulous, you just pay shipping. Now, they do have a small advert on the back, but if you want to pay more for them, it is removed. And right now, there is a trial afoot that makes the $19.00 fancy advert-free cards only $3.99. And geez, they look fabulous! Hubby designed e some free ones with my picture, no less!! Only problem is, I can't order them until I have an address and a phone number;) Well, first things first!!

Threadless and loving it

2007-03-09T04:05:00.000-08:00

Want to be wity without having to come up with anything ineresting to say? Try a Threadless shirt! Until Monday March 12th, most shirts are only $10, and it's free just to check out the insanely witty shirts on their site, so hop to it!

Mystery Shopping?

2007-03-08T08:04:00.000-08:00

I really can't tell you how I stumbled on this, but stumble I did and now I'm curious to see if anyone else has any experience with Mystery Shopping? I found some interesting articles on Stretcher.com, including one that describes in great detail the inner-workings of the biz, another with some handy advice from the horse's mouth, and another article of a woman who has done it for 20 year and has some handy tips. It's the kind of thing that isn't a full time job, but if you work it right, could get you some extra cash or an excuse to go out. Methinks I'll check this out when I gets back to the land of the free...

Accessorize me

2007-03-08T07:43:00.000-08:00

So in my many enlesssearches for looong modest tee-shirts, I've come by the Kalon Clothing site a few times, and the think I'm most struck with is how AWESOME their clearance jewlery is, of all things. I'm seriously considering getting the bangley braceltes for gifts for Christmas next year (I know a lot of bangley bracelet-type ladies) and what about this necklace for $4.50???

That's the kind of accessory that is so awesome, you want to buy an outfit just to show it off. And since you're a cheapskate, you probably can get that on clearance too:)

More free photos!!

2007-03-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

Another free prints deal because hey, I just had a baby and I have a ton of pictures I need to get printed! Check out Photoworks.com - right now they have 25 free 4" x 6" digital prints AND if you are a new members, you also get another extra 25 free prints. Don't forget the coupon code for the 25 free to everyone is 25FREEPRINTS. You do need to pay $1.99 for shipping, but that's 2 bucks for 50 pictures, people?! I don't know how long this is going so hop to it!

Involves Chocolate.

2007-03-07T07:14:00.000-08:00

Holy crap, Amazon.com has a 2LB capacity chocolate fountain for the low low price of $10.99! That's 78% off the original price! It comes with 8 fondue skewers and serving tray and has dishwasher-safe parts (wow, I already have one but it makes me want ANOTHER!) Plus if you need to get anything else on Amazon, get it all at the same time because any orders over $25 are free shipping. Throw a party just because you scored this!!

::EDIT::
Sorry, Chelsea, apparently the deal was for a short time, I'm so sorry!!! I did search around and the best price I found was here at $28.99 with an additional 5% off for St. Pats Day. Gotta snag that early worm!

Tours across America

2007-03-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

Just one post for today, I was busy roaming the largest mall in South America (where, might I brag, I snagged a pair of shorts for US$10 that I had considered buying for US$20 in the states? HA!).

But, I did manage to run across a nifty little website called FactoryToursUSA.com that lets you search for factory tours by state. Some are free, some are not, but good golly I do loves to see me some HowIt'sMade-ness. Planning a vacay? Find out what you can snag along the way. Bored in your hometown? See how they make matresses. I for one discovered that a small company actually makes soft drink beverages right in Atlanta. I must check out this Coca-Cola I've just heard about. Hrm.

Intraweb piktures

2007-03-05T15:04:00.000-08:00

Okay, this has nothing to do with my shopping addiction, but I just like free junk on the web, sue me. ImageChef.com makes easy, custom pics with your words on it that you can post to your blog, myspace, e.mail, whatever. Why? I dunno, give your blog or e.mails some pop. You can waste some time on the web, since you've been so busy saving money. You've earned it.

Freeeeee kid distract-er!!

2007-03-05T12:50:00.000-08:00

Everyone has seen all the childhood obesity warnings in the news lately, right? Well the government is taking a wee bit of action and is sending out free kiddo exercize DVDs to whoever wants them. Well, maybe just Americans. I wonder if it's a problem since my kid is Brasilian? Well, in either case, go snap up a copy. Because free is the best price EVER.

*(Chelsea, I know you don't have kids yet, but you totally can't help but want one, right?? heh heh)

School stuff. But more fun. And more cheap.

2007-03-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

Flipping through the intraweb today I found a tasty site called Discount School Supply, with lots of edumacational things as well as craft supplies for the cheapness. And of course, yours truly went to the clearance page first and had everything priced low to high (that's how I roll, yo) and for no reason whatsoever, I want to buy lots and lots of watercolor paints and packages of feathers. Because it's on sale, and that is also how I roll. Yo.

Made in the Shade

2007-03-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

Woohoo, Shade is on sale??? For the month of March, get your hands on some of the best long shirts on the market (I have 2 of the $5 Raglans, so cute!). Get crackin!

All bling and no bust!

2007-03-03T01:55:00.000-08:00

So it you are lucky enough to find yourself in Dallas (yes, it's not attractive but the people are so freaking sweet), you should get even luckier and stop by Sam Moon Trading Company. My girl Urmi hooked me up with a trip to this place a few years back, and I still have happy dreams about it. SUPER cheap wholesale prices on jewlery, handbags, accessories, you name it. It's funny, because every time I go there there are mobs of women all over the place - still worth it:)

But NOW - you can buy from their website!!! Today I am eyeing cute charm bracelets for under $5. Go treat yourself to a gander - gotta love it.

When to shop!

2007-03-02T05:06:00.000-08:00

Found this handy-dandy shopping calendar on Tales From the Crib about when to hit the sales.

Bargain Shopping Calendar

January -Almost everything goes on sale in January. It’s a good time to pick up formal clothing, dressy shoes, and fancy accessories at no-nonsense prices.

February - Stores are in a hurry to clear floor space for spring lines, so look for rock-bottom prices on remaining winter-clothing stock. Snap up a winter coat and boots, and search the bargain bins for steals on hats, scarves, and gloves.

April - Shop "After Easter" sales for children's clothes, dresses, spring coats (slickers and trench coats) .

July - Buy summer clothing, swimsuits, shoes & sandals during sales in July. Many stores have concurrent lingerie and underwear sales.

August - Gear up for next summer now while all summer clothes, bathing suits, sandals, and hats are at a rock bottom prices.

October - Those new school shoes are probably reduced by now, as are sneakers and book bags. Outerwear, from leather jackets to wool coats, is also priced to sell fast. The best coat sales take place in the first half of October, around Columbus Day.

November-December - In the fierce competition for pre-holiday business, stores have begun offering the traditional post-Christmas sales earlier.

Do you Woot?

2007-03-02T03:54:00.000-08:00

So, one of my husband's very first web visits of the day is to Woot.com. An insane little website, it only sells one thing a day, and when it's sold out, it's gone. All technology stuffs, all over the place, it's fun and you can get lucky. I have a fabulous mp4 player (video, music, pictures, records off TV, plays onto TV, so freaking awesome) he got me for a cool $120 on the site. My parents got their Roomba there too. You have to check it every day, the descriptions and comments can be hilarious, but all in all, it's a total trip. Today there's an mp3 player for $17.99 that is mighty serviceable.

It's the kind of place that when you get a deal, you really do want to say WOOT!, y'know??

Can you handle the truth??

2007-03-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

When we moved into our house, we knew the kitchen needed a major overhaul. Instead of replacing the cabinents, I spent 4 months lovingly repainting them. Hey, I was a newbie so this was all learning process. But I was stunned to discover how expensive handles and knobs were for them! Lucky for us, we happened to live in the same town as an Ikea (insert heavenly angels singing from above) so instead of $2.99 for each handle (we had to buy like 30), we got these that come in a pack of 6 for $1.99. Heh, that's like $.33 each - woooooooot!

Oh, and if you are one of the poor souls that don't know what Ikea is (you probably aren't reading this because you are busy under your rock;) it is not only the funnest furniture store ever, it's the cheapest and oh, oh so magical. Hubby and I have headed there for their $.99 breakfast on lazy Saturdays many a time...... *Ikea I love you. Don't tell the Jetta.*

ps. Sorry for the title, I just HAD to.

New Yooooooork!

2007-03-01T04:38:00.000-08:00

Ooo, I don't suggest the website (it's spotty) but if you have time, head over the your local mall with a New York & Co. - they're having a 50% off sale! I've gotten some great clearance items there, so it's worth the excavation.

Generally, I like dollars

2007-02-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

My MIL is staying in Florida and informed me of a children's clothing sale at a Dollar General down there - don't know if this is a country-wide things seeing as I'm not in the country, but a trip to your local Dollar General never hurt anyone!

oh baby!

2007-02-28T15:12:00.000-08:00

Don't know if anyone else is into figuring out this baby thing, but if you are, here are 2 homeade bargains I found today@ mormonchic.com:

Homemade Baby Food
Fruits & Vegetables
* Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove any chemical residue.

* Steam or boil your baby’s favorite fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables until mushy. Use fresh fruits and veggies for the most nutritional value, frozen next, and canned as a last option. If you use canned veggies, be sure to use the "No Salt" versions. Use little or no spice.

* Puree the fruits or vegetables very well for smaller infants, or leave a bit coarser for older ones. For variety, mix two fruits together. If these are the first foods you are feeding your infant, you may even want to strain the pureed fruit. You can purchase an inexpensive baby food maker that does this for you.

* Spoon into ice-cube trays and cover with plastic wrap. Freeze.

* At meal time, simply pop out a few cubes of food and allow to thaw to room temperature or defrost in the microwave for a few seconds.

* You can make weeks worth of meals at a time!

I'm totally digging the idea of storing it in ice cube trays and just popping them out and nuking them at meal time. Ingenius!

Homemade Baby Wipes
1 roll of Bounty or Viva paper towels (others will shred)
Use a serrated knife or coping saw to cut the roll of paper towels in half.
You'll also need a container-- a leftover "large-size" store-bought wipes container (the kind that comes in a roll) that has a hole in the lid; or a Tupperware container that's about the same size, you will have to lift the lid each time.
2c water
1T Johnson & Johnson Baby Oil
1T Johnson & Johnson Baby Shampoo (other brands will mold before you finish the roll)
After you cut the paper towels in half, put one-half aside for the next batch. In the container, Stir the liquid mixture well, and then place the half-roll of paper towels in the container. Put the lid on, and shake a few times to saturate the towels. Lift the lid and pull the first "wipe" from the middle. They should tear off easily after that. These cost about 50 cents a batch, as opposed to $2.00+ for store bought brands.

Victoria's Secrets on sale

2007-02-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

Woohoo! I usually only do my Victoria's Secret shopping at their semi-annual sales, but their site has an up to 70% off sale now, and you're more likely to find what you want on the site than pushing people out of your way digging through the sale bins;) Shoes, shirts under $10, pants, the usual under-goodies and more. Enjoy!

I prefer Frugality to Reality

2007-02-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay! I've been stranded in the southern hemisphere without a husband it has a way of doubling the workload. No worries, we're moving back to the land of deals and Mexican food in a week and a half, woooot!

Anywho, thanks to our fav newlywed for the tasty website from about.com on frugal living for parents. It's got some handy tips, and I must say my avorite is the first:

I have six kids (four still at home). For a snack, I save the juice from
canned fruit. I add a little water and make pop-cycles. The kids love it and I'm
not throwing the juice down the drain.

Genius! I could got for a mandarin orange pop right about now!