12/31 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  We made a quick trip to the beach.  My dad babysat the dog.  We paid him in brownies, pumpkin bread - and brought back licorice and Blue Cheese Pecans from Harry and Davids.  I printed off a few Travel Center free hot drink coupons - and we enjoyed a freebie.  We also ate a few nice meals out with Restaurant.Com 90% off gift certificates.  We looked at 6 beachfront properties to help us decide if we wanted to sell-out or stay for a rebuild - or possibly do both.  We liked 3 of the properties - the realtor will send us more statistics on Monday.  There were fantastic deals at the outlet mall.  I picked-up 5 shirts at Ann Taylor Loft for $4.77 each :)  One shirt was for my daughter.  My husband got heavily discounted jeans and shirts from Tommy Hilfiger - and 3 $5/5 coupons at other stores kicked-out.  You know I used those - we got socks, a polo shirt, and a necklace - after heavy discounts and coupon, the 3 cost around $14 including tax.  Then we went to a New Year Eve party at my daughter's best friend's house - and just got home.  Actually, it has been 1/1/12 for about 15 minutes now . . . I plan to hit the hay shortly.

12/29 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I worked part of the day - at my day job.  I plan to spend time relaxing - maybe get some cleaning in before the new year.  My first task is cull the fridge and take what needs to go to the compost out, freeze what I don't want to eat now, and finish up the leftovers.  I found a few more frugal crafts to engage me.  I went through a few patterns (bought for $1 last year or the year before) - and need to work on them.  Although the patterns aren't specifically for recycling - I will be recycling fabric from around the house - turn the less useful to something useful, pleasant, etc.  I find it relaxing and satisfying :)  Cheap stress therapy.

12/28 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I knitted one more trivet at lunch time.  I met my husband and daughter at the Credit Union and we got our tax protest notarized for free and it is mailed.  They should get around 2 or 3 January.  We shall see.  Still waiting to hear from our condo board as to when they will be having a meeting as to whether we will be developing the property or selling to the city?  Interesting how things can be rather bleak and all of a sudden two options pop-up.  Sad for the people who couldn't hold on and got foreclosed on.  My husband and daughter shopped at Earthfare and the freebie was 1/2 lb of shrimp with a $10 purchase.  Oh yeah, I heard the news that oil had "jumped" to $100 per barrel and thought it would take a day or more to translate to an increase at the gas stand.  Nope, the last time I filled up - gas was $2.97/gal - today, it was $3.19 :(

12/27 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today during lunch, I knitted 3 trivets from 3 small t-shirts.  I hope to knit a few more.  They will be great for keeping hot pans, etc. off the granite counters and my antique table top.  How's that for re-using t-shirts.  After that, I plan to knit a small rug for the kitchen - and then I hope we have no unwanted t-shirts sitting around.  These are cute t-shirts - but have a small stain, etc.  I also downloaded the tax protest form for our "foreclosed" home.  I pretty much have it filled out.  We will head to the credit union to have the notary sign it for us for free.  My husband was able to take care of other administrative errands.  It was quiet at my "day" job :)

12/26 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I ordered a 17 piece stainless steel cookware set from Amazon today - supposedly the retail price was over $600 - I had $115 in giftcodes from gifts and earned from swagbucks - and free shipping - so for just over $14 the set has been ordered.  I will keep it for the "new" condo - or to replace pieces in the current condo - and swap out some of my cookware.  I will also be sending in for a "rebate" - I get 2 knives.  My daughter found her camera - cheaper ordering online and picking it up at the store today - and I will get a small rebate.  With her giftcard gifts and her own savings, she barely squeeked by.  She is returning 1 pair of jeans I ordered on-line to a local store.  She does not like the style - oh well, cash back to me.  I earned another $5 Amazon giftcard through Swagbucks today and I also earned my $20 giftcard from Mastercard.  We thought we would be able to get a bunch done today - too bad most places are closed today - but I am glad to have an extra day.  My husband and daughter will catch up the rest of the errands tomorrw.  So glad I cooked ahead.  We have a "vegetarian" breakfast casserole that should last through tomorrow.  Lots of salads and turkey - oh, and desserts too :)  I finished my second inifinity scarf last night - and I have it to my daughter.  Guess I am not much of a scarf wearer.  I need to start another craft project.  I find it so relaxing.

12/25 Expressions

This year just whizzed by.  So far, we are still on target with our financial goals.  I am still waiting to hear from our condo-owners' association as to whether we will be involved in re-building or not.  Also, since we are near State land, apparently the city is interested in buying our parcel of land to entend the State park.  My dad came over and we had a very nice meal.  No fuss, no muss.  My husband made the turkey, I made some side dishes as did my daughter and my dad brought pie.  I have been knittng on my scarf and my husband and daughter have been reading.  So glad I am "off" tomorrow too.  Not sure what is in store, but I plan to relax a bit more :)

12/24 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I made a nice hearty breakfast this morning.  Then we all pitched in to clean.  We went to see Sherlock Holmes - and are now home.  Other than some frenzied cleaning, everything is peaceful.  Today's mail brought us each a $2 Dunkin Donuts gift card courtesy of Amex :)  We also received greeting card - one from my childhood piano teacher in Japan.  It looks like the new neighbors stopped in - but have not moved in yet - may be after the holidays?  Oh, and I got a $10 Victoria's Secret gift card in the mail :)

12/23 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I went to "work" for a half of a day - and came home and finished knitting my daughter's infinity scarf.  She loves it!  My husband used my 75% off gift certificate for a local diner and got us lunch and dinner - and plenty of leftovers.  Tomorrow, I am going to try an easy recipe for hot cranberry salad and spinach and strawberry salad.  Other than those two, and maybe a few more side dishes - mashed potatoes, and cranberry/pecan stuffing (box mix from Aldi) - that will be it.  My husband is the expert turkey baker.  It appears our new neighbors have moved in.

12/22 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I gave blood today - and was given a sports teams t-shirt, snacks, and drinks.  I was able to come home early.  Last night, I ordered 1 pack of contacts since I really wanted to wait until the new year - since I used up all of our Health Savers Account.  Anyway, I discovered that through ebates, I could get 5% back - these companies seem to drop and add themselves back every so often - is it the economy?  I also ordered discounted giftcards for Petsmart - used up the last the one I had on the last grooming and one for Michaels since we go there often.  Might as well layer as much savings as possible - discounted gift card, used a points back credit card, and usually use coupons at Michaels.  One more day of work at my day job - and then a long weekend!

12/21 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I found out today that I will be getting a bonus at work - of which I am very grateful especially in these tough economic times.  For lunch, I took my daughter to Brueggers and we ate lunch with the giftcard we purchashed last month.  For dinner, we just came back from Earthfare - I purchased the salad sampler - 3 salads for $9.99 - most of the salads are around $9.99 a lb.  So, the sampler weighed almost 1.5 lbs - and my daughter purchased 2 creme bruelees - we each had a coupon for a quart of natural ice cream for free - $4.99 - when you spend $5.  We are happy and full.  I also got my order from Overstock - with my "rebate" money - so, I have stocking stuffers for my daughter and husband.  I am still waiting for the silverware - which I may save.  If we end up buying into the proposed new condominium building - I am sure we will want to furnish it ourselves.  If I remember correctly, in the past, furniture packages started at $25K.  I think I can spend a lot less - and have just as good, if not better look with my own unique pieces :)

12/20 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I culled my coupon envelope today and transferred the "good" ones (not expired) into the free zippered pouch I got as a freebie several months ago.  I also worked on my daughter's scarf and should be able to finish it in the next couple of days.  I have everything we need - but I forgot to get something together for the mail-lady.  So, I have her giftbag full of Bath and Body Works travel sized ready for her.  I can sigh a deep breath of relief because I am on "glide" for the rest of the holiday season :)

12/19 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Nescafe sent me a pack of samples, including the new Peppermint Mocha and a $1 off coupon.  Wendy's sent me a .16 dividend check :)  I also got my freebie Woman's Day magazine.  I came home early, I was expecting to pick my daughter up from school - and baked 2 pumpkin breads and the "easy divinity" I made was easy, tasty, but runny.  That is it for winter baking as far as I am concerned - I have plenty of stuff for the freezer.  I am planning to hit the hay early today.  Oh, we took over a goodie package to the neighbor and she gave us her beloved cacti plant.  They are moving in a few days, down-sizing (her words) to half the space and they don't have room for the plant.  It is pretty - and prickly.

12/18 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day - I just got off of baking/cooking duties for the day.  Made 3 pumpkin pies (homemade puree), 1 Dutch Apple pie, 1 pan of brownies, chocolate chip cookies, 2 coconut custard pies, and orange cranberry muffins.  Will bake some more tomorrow evening.  The kitchen is still a mess - but will try to get it in order shortly.  Made a big batch of vegetable soup in the crockpot and a big batch of vegetarian curry on the stove. 

12/17 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My heart skipped a beat this morning when I checked our e-mails.  We currently own interest in some beach front property (our condo got hit by both hurricanes - and a developer that was planning to buy us out/re-build ran after making several substantial deposits).  Anyway, we may have a developer interested in building on our land - and we may be interested in "buying" - depends on the final terms and if it actually goes through.  Cheaper than buying a foreclosed one - hopefully.  So, that was a nice bit of financial news.  My daughter and I got our hair cut and colored for $24.95 - and we went ahead and splurged on the conditioning treatment for an extra $6 - nice pampering - and if the economy is bad - you sure couldn't tell it from the traffic last weekend, nor this weekend.  I stopped at Aldi and got most of my baking stuff and a few other goodies.  I will also use some $ on my "freebie" Wal-mart giftcards to round out my grocery needs.  A couple of bags of pureed pumpkin are about to become pumpkin bread.  All I can say, even at Aldi, nuts are expensive. 

More 12/16 Expressions

More frugal deeds for the day:  Today, on the way back from guitar lessons, I stopped at a take-and-bake pizza place - they are running a special - buy a $50 giftcard and get a small tub of cookie dough, a 1 topping family sized pizza, a side, and a 2 liter drink.  So, I have the card (my husband is a pizza lover) - and my daughter and I just had the side - a cheese pizza and fresh marinara.  Tomorrow, we plan to bake the spinach pizza for lunch/dinner.  Also, a few years ago, I gave one of my daughter's teachers a Wal-mart giftcard - thinking she could use it for school supplies - or whatever she wanted.  My daughter stated that the teacher told her she preferred Starbucks.  Of course, that teacher apparently didn't get tenure? - she is no longer there.  This year, I received an Aldi gift certificate from a special friend - and I thought that was very thoughtful, practical, and useful - I will be getting most of my baking supplies from there with that certificate.  Also, there are 3 people I give a giftcard to that work in our building.  They work for a company that isn't known for paying all that well.  I used to try to give them something they could pamper themselves with.  This year - I got brave enough to try a Wal-mart giftcard - they were so appreciative.  Because they can use that card for whatever they like - whether fun, or practical.  I guess times have changed a bit.

12/16 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I used my "O" dollars today and ordered a 54 piece silverware set for us (some of the current set went down to the beach - seems with the bad economy more sticky fingers?).  I will put the old set in the condo closet for replacement pieces.  I also got my daughter and husband a pair of leather gloves each - out of pocket for me was .69.  Another annoying fact, the house that my husband and I tried to buy as a short sale is now up for auction.  It has been almost a year since we made our offer.  I want to see if they get at least what we offered.  I found some easy recipes for some nice treats on-line during lunch today.  I hope I can make them this weekend:  Coconut custard pie, chocolate covered coconut candy, toffee bars, and divinity.  That should definitely be enough - and I hope we can give most of it away since they will all be loaded with calories.  Added:  I made an appoint for a cut and color at the brand name beauty school - the "special" price is $24.95 - and I did my own manicure today - in a pretty tiffany blue.

12/15 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  More towels I have "trimmed" with scrap ribbons and trim.  We hope to bake several items to take to the neighbors this weekend/next week.  I can wait for the holidays - this time of year is so draining some times.

12/14 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I received 2 freebies at work for contributing to a charitable campaign - one was really odd - I thought it was mace - another person thought it was perfume - the other a tool thing - level, post-its - nice, but odd.  Tomorrow is our office party - I am taking mixed nuts from Quad Readers - wow, that stuff is expensive - I looked up the price - I am sure they got a quantity discount - but one small tin is just under $16 - and I got caramel truffles earlier from Earthfare.  Everyone seems to be nibblers - so, no sense in bring a "big" something - little bits of goodness seem to disappear faster - and who wants to bring leftover home - with so many calories running around?  Mail today:  free shaving set from Wal-mart - after rebate.  I forgot to do my test-drive - I found the form while cleaning my purse - good thing I have until the end of the month - so, I will be doing that.  I completed a few more "embellished" towels and started knitting my scarf - casted on 256 stitches - and just did the first round.

12/13 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day: Today during lunch, I made a quick trip to the credit union, cleaned out my purse, finished an orange/clove pomander - it smells wonderful and is sitting on a window ledge in the kitchen, and I knitted a few more rows on the scarf for my daughter.  She needed some treats for her class for two days this week.  We headed to Wal-Mart with our giftcards and got what we were looking for.  I also got a circular size 10 knitting needle for my scarf - a different style for myself.

More 12/11 Expressions

Yesterday was our community's luminaria evening - I was so caught-up in "stuff" we missed seeing it.  Also, USAA came through again this year, they gave us a nice dividend even though it was tough year for insurance companies.  We will appreciate the $.  Our paper today had a local on-line estate auction.  I spoke with my husband and he told me to go ahead and bid on a few items.  The auction ends Tuesday.  I put in my max prices - and have already been out-bid. Que-sara, sara - because I am too darn frugal to go any higher - but wish whoever gets the item the best. I feel a lot better this week - we have been eating more healthily (is that a word)?  I need to cut the sugar and caffeine and then I can earnestly start the PINK Method - but, I can start trimming now :)

12/11 Expressions

Pictured above are the two towels I have been talking about.  The brown bath towel - I got a set of 10 towels on-line with free shipping from Wal-mart on Black Friday for $22.00.  So, the embelishments took some of my time and leftover fabric/trim/beads - recycled.  The top one for the guest bathroom - a hand towel from JCPenneys, originally $25 - on sale for $12.50 - and I used my free $10/$10 coupon to get it for $2.50 plus tax.  Cute hand towel - but I don't think I'd ever spend $25 on it - does that make me cheap or frugal :)

12/10 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  A local cupcake shop was giving away cupcakes for donating items for the homeless.  My daughter and I took some canned items and she got a cupcake.  Then we each used our starbucks card (she got her own - a mypoints freebie) and then we headed to JCP - with my $10 off $10 coupon.  I found a hand towel for the guest bathroom - regular price $25, sale $12.50, minus my $10 - so $2.50 plus tax.  Still a lot of $ for a hand towel - since I just purchased bath towels for $2.22 on Black Friday.  A bit of embellishment and they become crazy expensive.  Then to Earthfare - we had coupons.  First, we got an organic lunch - and a free bag of organic sugar.  After lunch, we did a bit of shopping of shopping there with some more coupons - we got 2 lbs of ground round for free and a whole chicken.  Also, the store brand truffles were on sale, so, I bought a box for $5.99 to add to the mixed nuts I got for my contribution to the office holiday snack session.  My daughter and I watched another Redbox - I think the $1 rental has now come and gone.  But, I got some knitting in.  Now I need to get some cleaning in and get set for the new week.

12/9 Expressions

Woot - have been in an e-mail campaign to keep my daughter in the same high school until she graduates - new one is ready for the next school year.  Looks like it works :)  Sometimes it really does help to speak-up :)  I started sewing embellishments on my Black Friday bath towels from Wal-Mart - $2.20 each - I already broke 3 sewing machine needles - just got 2 packs.  Hope I have better luck.  On top of that - when I put the machine on the dining table - I pulled a muscle :(  I hope to have a few towels finished tomorrow.  Mail was good - I got my annual gift for being a mail decoy.  This year, instead of cashews - I got mixed nuts.  I will be taking them to work to share them for "snack day".  I also have a coupon to use at Earthfare - free lb of chuck with a $5 purchase - their truffles are to die for - so, for around $5 - I will get a box of trubbles - to add to the nuts - and I believe I am done gift shopping for the rest of this month.  Oh, as a treat for myself - and of course in case we put the house up for sale so we could change school districts - I purchased a house cleaning groupon.  It will be nice to have someone else do the stuff I hate at 1/2 the price.

12/8 Expressions

Public service announcement:  you can go through withdrawals/increase your BP if you go cold turkey off of caffeine.  Yikes!  Monday, I started the P.I.N.K. method - says no coffee - so, I drank tea.  I was about an 8-12 cup a day coffee drinker - also, sometimes stopping at Starbucks, etc.  Starting Monday - I started getting a really bad headache, could tell my BP was high.  Thought it was a fluke - by yesterday, I put in a vacation slip and thought perhaps I just needed to rest.  Of course - before the end of the day, I called for a dr. appointment.  After taking my blood pressure - which was high - and chatting - turns out I am probably going through a caffeine withdrawal.  He told me to wean myself off of the stuff.  So, on my way to the pharmacy, I got a caramel frappe - doctor's orders :) - and picked up my modified bp rx and something for my severe headache.  Boy, do I feel a lot better - and a bit nutty.  I really thought I had some horrible condition - and turns out - it was something I didn't even think about.  So, I am enjoying a cup of joe (sans the fancy flavors) - and start weaning tomorrow.  So glad I have tomorrow off too - I was having a hard time sleeping because of the pain - so am exhausted.  Don't even want to imagine withdrawal pains from anything stronger than caffiene - this was enough to throw me way out of whack.

More 12/6 Expressions

Today, I made some progress on the scarf I am knitting for my daughter.  Doesn't look like much - but I am pleased so far.  Spent two hours at a community meeting regarding re-zoning school districts - extra time to keep my hands busy :)

12/6 Expressions

Serendipity?  I ran out of my Ultra Purex and what was waiting for me at the front door?  The new Triple Action Purex.  I am a Purex Insider, so I get to give the product a whirl :)  I plan to post a review shortly.

Disclosure:  Purex provided a free sample of their Triple Action laundry detergent so I could write a review.  However, all of the opinions expressed here and in any future posts are my own.

More 12/5 Expressions

We got an e-mail reminder that it is our comunity's annual Chistmas party.  We've lived here almost 5 years and have never been to a one.  So, I talked my daughter into taking a break, we grabbed a Barbie from the gift closet and some toiletries to donate to two different children's charities - and headed over.  It is raining cats and dogs - the place was jammed packed.  We dropped off our stuff, got a plate of great food and left.  Nice to check things out every once in a while.  There goes my PINK Method - will have to start tomorrow.  It was nice to get "rid" of few items too. 

12/5 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Mail was pretty good.  My husband received $10 cash for a survey - pretty nifty - I will put it to good use.  I got my rebate form from JCP - so, now to send in the receipt and get $10 back on a gift to my dad.  I started the PINK Method today - feeling pretty good.  So glad it is my "short" week - I have plenty to catch-up on.  Oh, started my daughter's infinity scarf this afternoon.  Co-worker is working on one too - she is going to give me her pattern - her's is easy - but looks much fancier than mine.  I am going to try it when I make mine.  Need to bump up my 401K equivalent contributions for next year - need to keep maxing out - as I still plan on retiring sooner than later.

The Real 12/4 Expressions :)

Frugal deeds for the day:  Pictured are the drapes I made yesterday.  Unfortunately, I did not realize the door was made of metal - so, my husband has to come up with an alternate plan to hang them - so, just a demo.  Such a beautiful day - my daughter and I are going to use up her freebie giftcards - yup, get some shop therapy in on the cheap :)  For some reason, I am in the nesting mode -  I just want to pretty up the house on the cheap.  Maybe I know I can really see retiring from my day job soon and I want to be ready to unload this house?  I found the right sized knitting needles last night.  So, my next project is an "infinity scarf" for my daughter.  Keep my hands busy at lunch to relax and keep from putting stuff into my mouth.  Anyway, I plan to start the PINK method in earnest tomorrow.

12/4 Expressions

Personal financial goals we have accomplished:  add to our daughter's college fund - check.  Bulk up savings account - hope to accomplish by the end of this month.  Pay all property taxes without dipping into savings - hope to accomplish by the end of this month.  Barring any emergency, we are on track.  Our holiday spending has been pretty minimal.  Although we were going to use our Southwest Airline miles for trips, we have decided to cash them in for gift cards to curb our variable spending - groceries, gas, clothes, and entertainment. 

12/3 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I stayed home and got the sewing machine out and did some darning and made the curtains - just waiting for my husband to install the hardware.  I also made a large batch of vegetable curry for my daughter who has decided to become a vegetarian.  I also made a batch of salad and cut up some vegetables to start the PINK method diet on Monday.  I have everything - but am waiting to actually get started.  I wanted to finish up my coffee, etc. before I start.  I have also been getting $10/$10 coupons/giftcards - it's been a while.  I have been getting them from Kohls - but JCP usually sends me $10/$25 and LL Bean hasn't sent one in a while.  Well, I just went through ebates and ordered a cashmere scarf from LL Bean - out of pocket $0.  The $39 scarf was marked down to $9.99 - with free shipping.  I am hoping ebates refunds me .20 too :)  That was my thrill of the day.  I also got my free Kiplingers - nice to read in the sun with nice cup of coffee at home.

12/2 Expressions

This is our sunbeatened front door.  My husband updated with paint the previous owners left in the garage.  The wreath?  My daughter made it in school about 10 years ago.  It is made from humble supplies.  A wire coat hanger, scraps of fabric and some ribbon.  She had a great public school teacher who was very crafty - the teacher kept their tiny hands busy making all kind of things from scraps and leftovers.  My daughter wasn't all that proud of it in the past - but, I kept it.  I guess now that we are in a new economy, every one appreciates "home-made" and "recycled" much more - so, I switched out our year around decorated grapevine - and added her wreath for this season.  It is such a nice beautiful day outside.  Next, I am going to sew that kitchen drape.  I am just home from the hospital - had a minor procedure - but am in such an appreciative mood.  I was told to take it easy, so, I am.  But these are easy things to do.  Earlier, the dog and I sat on the front porch (me with a fresh cup of coffee) and we enjoyed the sun.  So many things to be grateful for, and they don't always have to cost $.

12/1 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I decided to cash in my Southwest Airlines miles for discounted giftcards.  I believe I have enough for gifts, gas & food for the next month.  I also made a few more purchases with my Amex card - and on one $25 gc got a $20 statement credit - not a bad discount indeed. 

11/30 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I picked up my order from Wal-mart - free shipping to the store.  I got a new blender and a $5 Statement Credit from Amex.  I also purchased 2 pizzas that were 3.49 each and I had a $2 off 2 coupon.  After I got home, I remembered that I had a store ad from a competitor where the pizzas were $3.  Could have saved myself some change.  I guess I have too much on my mind or am easily distracted.  Oh, and I got 2 cheeses and a box of organic pumpkin seed, etc. crackers for just over $10 and will be sending in for a $6 rebate.  I need to get organized.  Tomorrow will be a short day at my day job.  And, I will be off Friday.

11/28 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I won a Shop-runner membership, a $2 Dunkin Donut giftcard and a $10 statement credit from Amex today.  Of course I did a bit of Cyber Monday shopping.  I also ordered the P.I.N.K Method after watching Dr. Phil this evening.  I still have the same 20 lbs to lose.

11/27 Expressions

Because of the generosity of swagbucks this week - I got 21 swags several times this weekend - I was able to cash-in for another $5 Amazon e-giftcard :)  I found a few more pennies - and now have a .50 roll to cash in at the bank.  I stopped at Wal-mart and got 5 yards of light yellow fabric - to trim the window curtain I am planning on making for $3.21 in the remnant bin.  What I don't use, will be used for a pillow case or two.

11/26 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Mail call - more freebie magazines - even a financial one - Kiplingers.  We went out for breakfast with a 1/2 priced gift certificate; bought lunch items for my daughter at Target - I thought the giftcard had $5 on it - it had $15.  Went to the Art Museum with our pass and saw the new exhibits.  Then to the consignment store - they aren't taking anything - sure hope they aren't closing.  Then to Wendy's for free Jr. Frosty's.  Stopped at Aldi for a few vegetables.  Then to my dad's to drop off some desserts.  It has been nice to have a really long weekend.  Added:  I made a crockpot full of turkey white bean chili - turned out delicious.  Tomorrow, I will make a turkey salad and the carcass will go in the crock for broth.  My daughter found a rebate form for $6 back on a $10 or more purchase of turkey, ham, or deli platter.  Mailed mine in.

11/25 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Mail call - Starbucks gift card and rebate check from credit card companies.  Yes, I  did some "Black Friday" shopping with my daughter this a.m.  I have not shopped it for years - but today happened to be my "off" Friday - so, I gave my husband a break and headed out at 4:30 this morning.  We really didn't encounter crowds - a good thing.  I got my dad a discounted Nook for his gift this year.  My daughter got some great discounts - 50% off clearance items at Anthropologie to round out her winter clothing wardrobe.  I got my beloved Wallflower refills at Bath and Body Works and they let me use the $10 off $30 coupon - and still get the $20 tote w/products even though it brought my balance before the tote under $40.  We got a free accessory (scratch card) at one store, free muffins and hot apple cider at another - Anthropologie gave out treats while we were in the check-out line.  Then to Steinmart - we mainly got household items - heavily discounted and used a coupon on top of the discount.  Then to Brueggers - got the $25 gift card, get $5 free bakery items.  Got a half a dozen fresh bagels.  No crowds, no pushing.  So, either the media was wrong about record crowds, or we went to the "wrong" places - but it wasn't bad at all.  Oh, my daughter really wanted a $55 cologne for $10 at Sephora - she got it.  Last night I shopped at J C Penney.  I got a luggage set shipped for free to my brother - one for us for this summer's trip to France, and a donut maker ($9.99 after rebate - for my dad).  The luggage sets were $39 for a 4 piece set.  Our's are torn-up and the freecycle ones I got are too heavy.

11/24/11

Happy Thanksgiving.  We had a nice peaceful day.  No fuss, no muss.  A nice nap.  Hope the same for all.  Trying to stay out of the Black Friday fray.  We shall see . . .

11/23 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Yeah - I have a long holiday week/weekend.  Will I indulge in Black Friday?  I'd rather not - I like cyber-Monday better.  Although, I think I am pretty set when it comes to holiday gifts this year.  I have not even checked the stock market - I hope it was kinder, and gentler this holiday weekend.  I need to get cooking on some side dishes - and eat, laugh, and relax tomorrow.

11/21 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Got a rebate check in the mail.  The kitchen renovation is officially done - except the cabinets of course.  I am excited about making the side dishes for Thanksgiving.  Other than that, everything is done.  I found a condo that might be promising.  The realtor is checking it out today and will let me know what he thinks.

More 11/20 Expresions

Just wanted to post my veggie bargains from yesterday before they end up as meals.  Pictured are 2 packs of portobellow mushrooms, the container of baby spinach, the container of field spring mix, and veggie tray.  I am going to start making meals shortly.  Need to think ahead for Thanksgiving too.

11/20 Expressions

Frugal deeds of the day:  Wow - I did the Proctor & Gamble - buy 2 participating products and get the above baking set for free - I am so impressed with the freebies all very useful and helpful stuff!  Nice, nice, nice!  I woke up to this - this morning.  I guess the Fed-Ex driver delivered it last night.  This afternoon will be mainly cooking ahead/cleaning/raking day.

11/19 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Mailbag:  my daughter and I each received a free subscription magazine - mine was Woman's Day.  I forgot to mention, yesterday I received a coupon for a free Schick Razor and $2 off a refill - the free razor was up to $10.XX.  We decided to do our shopping today without eating lunch.  First stop, Publix to get a few good deals - and we got to taste white turkey chili and a turkey salad (today's theme was how to use up leftover turkey).  Then to Wal-mart - mainly to gas-up the car, but also to pick-up a few more good deals - and we ended up getting a free slice of red velvet cake, coffee, and crackers with cheese.  Then to Kroger - jackpot on organic veggies - big tub of organic spring mix $2, small tub of organic baby spinach $1, and veggie tray $2.  We got a few more items - but we are pretty much set for thanksgiving lunch/dinner and leftovers.  We brought those items home and then headed to Starbucks.  From 2PM-5PM - the holiday drinks are BOGO - and we got a large bag of coffee grounds - my compost should be wonderful next year.  We hit a few stores and then to the store with our freebies - we picked-up freebie eye shadow at Ulta, freebie small ice cream cone at Maggie Moos - and I went ahead and purchased a $20 giftcard and got 2 VIP cards for a free cone or cup - smalls are $3.99 plus tax - so, that was a good deal.  I can give the $20 card away for a holiday gift.  We also picked up my daughter's book at Barnes and Noble - I ended up getting the $100 gift card and getting the $10 promo card - and ended up extending our membership.  What's left on that card will be my husband's gift since he has a nook.  Oh, but I spent some of that card - I got 10 bags of Godiva truffles on 75% off sale plus another 10% off for the membership - so they were $1.12 per bag plus tax.  My daughter will take a few bags to school to share with her friends as a pre-thanksgiving treat - the rest will go toward holiday gifts and indulgances by a few family members.  Tomorrow afternoon, we plan to get some leaves raked as I am sure the HOA police will be making their rounds shortly.

11/18 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I contacted the realtor about 2 short-sale condos - 1 has sold.  The other, I would be interested if I could drop the price about 15%.  Just sent him an e-mail.  Tomorrow, I will mainly concentrate on cleaning and preparing a few meals ahead.  Today during lunch,  I made a quick trip to the grocery stores.  I got a turkey for .59/lb - frozen - it will be defrosting until Thursday a.m.  Trying to decide if I want to stuff one into the freezer for later.  My husband excitedly told me that he used a coupon today :)  He also called the tax assessor's office in his State - and taxes are considered late around mid-February.  Here - 1 Jan of the new year.  So, that gives us some breathing room.  We are protesting the taxes in January as they are about 25% too high based on our calculations.  So, we shall see.  My husband called the condo manager and she stated that the maintenance crew have not put the new furniture together - but when they do, they will update the pictures and description of our condo.  We sold another video game on half.com.  My daughter will have a small chunk of change to add to her camera fund at the end of the month.

11/17 Expressions

I finished the retirement course.  So in addition to getting some continuous learning credits, I had free coffee all day - and a nice pen.  Okay - the information was very informative too.  I am so happy tomorrow will be a very short day for me.  Mail was pretty boring - but I did get my Lowes gift card.  My husband knows it is time for us to finally stain the cabinets - we have no excuse.  My other neighbor is AWOL - I am wondering if she is letting her house fall into foreclosure?  When we disconnected from our old internet company - the representative said he was disconnecting her's because she is moving.  Well, her outdoor furniture is still there - but, I haven't seen hide, nor hair of her and her cute dog.  Sure hope all is okay for her.  Added - I just managed my reward cards  - I will be getting a check for $20.07 and a $5 Starbucks card :)

11/16 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I attended part 1 of a retirement seminar.  Very useful information.  So much more comforting when you have all of the information - or as much as you can.  My first free issue of Kiplingers came today.  The furniture I ordered from Overstock was delivered today!  So far, no issues.  Since I made curry earlier this week, my daughter decided she loves the stuff.  Good way to get veggies in everyone.  So, we headed for the Asian Market - it was a mad house - seems they had a fresh batch of veggies delivered - we stood in line for 1/2 hour.  But, the curry is scrumptious.  We have plenty for dinner tomorrow.  I made a batch of chicken salad - for sandwiches too - enough to cover the next couple of days - put in the orphaned grapes and tomatoes - it is delicious.

11/15 Expressions

Today was day full of errands - and not all of them were frugal :(  Well, I picked up my dry cleaning - where I had remitted my Groupon coupon - well, I still owed $28.50.  Won't be going there anymore - my $2.XX cleaners (where I have discount coupons) is a much better deal.  No wonder they don't get much business.  I mailed my daughter's half.com item and met the contractors about fixing the nicks in the granite.  They will be calling to schedule an appointment.  Today, I printed out a coupon for a pair of sunglasses free from Sears - supposedly a $99.99 value . . . sounds like a very nice freebie.  Tomorrow, I will be attending a retirement seminar - I need to learn all of the rules.  Supposedly, we will also learn about our options for long-term care, etc.  I stayed up too late yakking with a retired former co-worker - I sure envy her.

Even More 11/14 Expressions

Pictured are the Pumpkin cheese cakes I just baked - with the two sweet potatoes I had leftover.  We ended up trying one - and it is delicious.  Also this evening, we made a sale on half.com :)  Decluttering continues - with a few $ coming in toward my daughter's camera fund :)

More 11/14 Expressions

I ended up taking the load of clothes to the dry cleaners - she charged me $0.  Maybe since I was a new customer.  I was going to get my hair trimmed - both schools are closed on Mondays - so, I stopped at the Dollar Tree and purchased $1 hair cutting scissors - and will be doing the cut myself.  I also ended up donating a buck for the "Operation Homefront" cause - but the toys to choose from were sure junky - I ended up picking the matchbox car.  I also got 2 greeting cards - one for the neighbor - moving to a new home - and one general since they are 2 for $1.  Also got a loaf of Nature's Own Wheat 40 cal per slice bread.  Then to Earthfare to get the $25 giftcard for the neighbors.  Then to Aldi - funny - when you set a cash limit - seems I spend that much.  I had in my mind $10 (I went to the bank earlier - and had a wonderful cup of coffee while I waited for the cashier to be freed-up).  I spent $9.XX - got carrots, onions, graham crackers, pitted dates, sour cream, brown sugar - I think that was it.  I have what I need to round out lunch snacks, make pumpkin cheesecakes, and try-out the curry (from a box) recipe.  I also decided to stop at Kroger to see if there were any great Manager's Specials - sure were.  There was a 5 pack of Sirloin Strip Steaks orginially $28.XX fir $12.XX,  Back in the day - we would eat 1 each or so.  Now, 1 serves 3 - so, that will go a long way.  Yes - much healthier getting portion control and more veggies in the diet.  I also got 1/2 priced brie and it has a rebate form on it - so "free".  I also got 3 marked down Greek yogurts from the organics section.  Now more grocery shopping this week.  Now, I need to get cooking :)  It is nice to have a day to myself :)  Oh, did I mention that my husband now loads up his car with boxes from the garage and spare bedroom.  Since he does not come home every weekend, he has taken upon himself to help with the declutter by going through the boxes and getting rid of stuff - mostly old papers that are no longer necessary to store.  If he finds a treasure, that's good too.  Something in between will get donated, or sold at the next yardsale.  Added:  the realtor just called - vacant property now has an approved tenant - although they won't be moving in until Dec 17.  Mail came - I got my ebates check :)  I ordered a Lowes giftcard - we are always needing something from there - used my mystery shopping $.  We will probably do some cabinet staining over the holidays.  The curry turned out wonderfully.  The only progress I 've made toward the pies - found a covered pie plate that I made many years ago in ceramics class.  Also, found a tart plate I got at a yardsale - now, need to wash them and get going on the pies.

11/14 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My daughter and I had a "smart" idea last night.  I was going to order discounted gift cards to use on Black Friday.  Looks like a lot of people already beat us to it.  We wanted Barnes and Noble, TJ Maxx, and Lowes.  Could not find any at any of the web-sites we check :(  Last night, we were at Barnes and Noble and ordered a book she needed for class and each had a specialty drink.  Noticed they had their Gift Cards on sale for $100 - get a $10 promo.  Anyway, I will be out of gift card funding after her book comes in.  The cashier said - you sure have a bunch of gift cards - I used up one and had to start on my other.  Today, I will go to the bank and get some cash - and head back to Aldi to get a few more ingredients.  I am going to try a pumpkin cheesecake recipe - and freeze them for Thanksgiving.  Also, my neighbor's sign has changed from "pending" to sold - so, I will get her a giftcard to Earthfare - so they can eat a few meals while in the moving process.  I am also going to take a load of dry cleaning to the place I got a 1/2 priced gift certificate for.  I may also pop into the "other" beauty school and get a trim.  My hair needs some shaping and for $10 plus tip - it would be well worth it. 

11/13 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I had $8 in my wallet today.  The only "bad" thing about Aldi is that they take cash or debit cards.  I don't do debit cards - and rarely carry around cash.  So, for under $8 today - I got 2 lbs of unsalted butter, 2 bricks of low fat cream cheese, 2 lbs of pears, and almost 2 lbs of bananas.  I would have picked-up a few more things - had I had the cash.  Today, I cooked with what I had.  We had a nice breakfast and an Asian themed lunch with leftover - egg rolls and fried rice.  We stopped at Aldi before picking the dog up from my dad's.  We took 1/2 of the apple pie I baked earlier, some egg rolls and rice, and the frozen lasagna I made earlier this week.  He seemed pretty pleased with the haul.  After we got the dog home and gave her a bath, we went to Kroger and finished out shopping.  Kroger is now my favorite place for finding goodies from the Manager Special.  We are going to make a quick stop at Ulta - we got our rewards certificate, pick-up a book at B&N (and may be some coffee :)  and Victoria's Secret is having an event with goodies for their "Pink" line.  Did I mention we also stopped at CVS today - and did the buy $30 of certain items and get a $10 gift card - I did, used a bunch of coupons - and got what we needed/wanted.  Also did the buy $10 in Suave and get $3 in extra bucks which I applied to the $30 order.  Lastg night, I used a sample of shampoo - I was totally out - now I should have enough to last me through the year.  Oh, and I rolled another $10 to deposit at the bank.

11/12 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the weekend:  We just got back from the beach - we just completed a whirlwind maintenance of our unit.  We painted, I put stick-on tile in the tiny laundry room, purchased a refrigerator, a 42 inch flat screen tv - we used every discount we could.  The new sofa and chair from Overstock had not arrived - so, we made arrangements with the maintenance department to assemble them when they do arrive - shortly. They shipped on the 9th of this month.  We also replaced the balcony chairs, since they were rusting.  The salt air/water is tough on metal.  We brought them home and I plan to use rustoleum paint and use them on our deck here with the glass top table that needs some paint on the metal portion.  In the mail, we got plenty of samples in 1 day's mail and a couple of rebates.  All-and-all, it was pretty frugal - because if we let them rental company take care of everything - it would costs lots of $.  So, we saved a bundle - no telling how much :)

11/10 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I did some more freezer maintenance just now.  Put some of the soup I made earlier this week and the pumpkin custard in the freezer.  I am trying my hardest not to waste food.    I got a small rebate check.  But, they start to add up.  Other than that, I plan to relax this evening since tomorrow is Veteran's Day holiday for us.

11/9 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I spray painted brass looking vent plates to a matted brown color.  I am also baking up a storm.  Pictured, my oatmeal crumble apple pie - used up all but 1 of my Fuji apples before they soften up, in the baking cups are pumpkin/orange/white chocolate chip muffins.  In the oven, I had a pumpkin pie cooking at a high temperature for a few minutes before baking the muffins with the pie.  I noticed the rental agency has our townhouse up for rent already - thank goodness.  The tenant moved out Monday.  We had it re-roofed on Tuesday - and it was listed today for lease :)

11/8 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I got my Rite Aid rebate check in the mail.  The stock market was nice.  I contacted the realtor about a foreclosure and he said there are 5 more similarly priced units in the two buildings.  May take the time to look at them.  Beach condo earned a nice amount last month - a first for an October.  Hope the rental season next year is good too. Paid the roofer to re-roof a rental property.  Hope the property rents out quickly.  Lots of expenses the next couple of months

11/7 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My daughter is under-the-weather today - so, she is staying home.  I am staying home with her since I took her to a doctor's appointment and the contractor's were suppose to be here first thing in the morning to do their clean-up work:  mainly, they did not attach the dryer vent - so, moisture and lint blows into the house, they left residue on on the granite counters, did not repaint the trim to cover the paint drips they made - there is a list of about 10 things.  I know they are thinking I went to work and they want to be here when "I get home" so they can get their final check.  Sure hope they know how much they have to and have the supplies to fix it all.  Fed-ex came this morning with my Chase credit card replacement - that was fast.  Pictured above, along with the few little tomatoes I found earlier - I have added some Muscadine grapes that have not ripened that I found today - pretty nifty for a new plant.  Hopefully they will ripen together in the window sill and I can add them to a chicken salad sandwich.  Also, since I have some time today - I finished my seat cover - the one that was ripped - and I started working on it months ago.  Sadly, I am not sure where the black piping went - so, I used the orange remanent I have had for a gazzillion years.  My husband will have to staple it to the wooden bottom to get the "finished" look and also touch it up with some stain - and it will be the chair for the built in desk.  I also plan to sew a curtain with leftover fabric for the kitchen door.  We were going to give the kitchen a deep cleaning this weekend - but since the dryer vent spread lint all over the place - and the messy contractors are suppose to be back today - my daughter and I did the minimum.  So, DIY and using leftovers can be very frugal.

11/6 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I had a lot of intentions today - but ended up taking a nap most of the afternoon.  I still need to do a bit more cleaning before the contractor's come to finish-up.  I did cook up an entire bag of brown rice - froze several meals worth in sandwich bags and made confetti rice salad for the next couple of days.  I used up some more odd bits and pieces and it turned out pretty well.  I also found several more McDonald's codes and ended up "winning" 60 more Coke Rewards points.  So, I ordered my daughter a magazine subscription and ordered my husband 4 coupons for free single Minute Maid/Coke product. 

More 11/5 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Pictured are the grape? tomatoes from my garden.  I am going to leave them in the window sill this week and hope I can add them to a salad sometime this week.  In the crockpot - I have a big batch of soup cooking - chicken broth, chicken bits, onion, cabbage, last of my organic carrots, a bit of pumpkin puree, a little bit of left over mashed potatoes/gravy from KFC, left over herbs from a bread dipping kit, and a bit of frozen seafood chowder.  I have another 8 sandwich bags of pumpkin puree.  The roasted seeds are gone - yum.  I also have a lasagna in the freezer - used up goat cheese and other cheeses etc.  I also baked 8 chuck burger patties and froze them.  I made chuck burger crumbles and froze them in 2 sandwich bags for quick meals.  I got a family sized package of chuck burger for $2.39 with the chicken I purchased.  My daughter and I had a yummy chicken salad sandwich for lunch with the chicken, leftover arugala (organic for $1 a tub last week) - on wheat bread.  We also had cake mix cookies (strawberry) with white chocolate morsels - we need snacks :)  Most of them are in the freezer - because they are delicious.  Very easy too.  I have pumpkin custard cooling now.  I have 2 bags of puree in the fridge - I plan to buy some oranges - and make pumpkin/orange muffins from another recipe I found.  We got some cleaning done -need to do a lot more.  But, we are heading to the thriftstore to see if they are having their 50% off sale and to see if we can get a few more inventory items knocked off our condo missing items list :(  We also plan to go to Barnes and Noble to get a book for 50% off and some coffee - I have a gift card and membership card.  We are also going to have a light dinner at PF Changs - Happy Hour Specials - I have a gift card and a Warrior card that will get another 10% off.  Will probably stop at Victoria Secrets to get a few more free pairs of panties.  Will stop at Wal-mart to use up last of the gift card to gas-up.  I also plan to finish out my grocery shopping for this week.  I am going to try to stay with $50 - and still eat healthy for the 2, 3 of us.  I have a $5 off $30 Aldi coupon.  Also, in the mail today, I got some Kroger coupons - including one for a free dozen of eggs.  I also got a free sample/coupon of feminine products.

11/5 Expressions

Sometimes you don't fully appreciate something until it goes missing.  Pictured above is breakfast I cook today.  I am in post repair/renovation clean-up mode - although clean-up has not really started yet.  I wanted to do some grocery maintenance - and since I had a bit of olive oil, boiled red potatoes, 1/2 a red onion in the fridge and a bunch of eggs, that was breakfast.  Just before typing this post - I got an automated call from Chase Freedom - my card number had been compromised.  Someone charged $29.99 at "friendfinders" . . . so, that charge will be removed, my account closed - and a new card will be sent to me.  My crockpotted chicken leg quarters are cooling in fridge - and then I will remove the fat.  Then I plan to make a soup in the crockpot.  Before baking the pumpkin in the oven to make puree and roasted pumpkin seeds, I am going to look for something else to bake to utilize as much heat as possible.  Also, it is cold this morning, the heat will be much appreciated by all :)  I place an orde at Office Max that was $0 out of pocket after rewards.  My husband is in Office Max at his location now to buy a printer.  He waitied quite a while to get one - he bought an ink efficient one today.

11/4 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the week:  The kitchen is pretty much back to being operational.  Monday, they will do a bit of touch up work.  Tomorrow, I need to clean, clean, clean.  I also miss eating a home cooked meal.  After guitar lessons, we stopped at a local supermarket with the best meat prices.  I got a 10 lb bag of leg quarters for $6.90 - and half of them are in the crockpot cooking now.  The dog will get some, the broth will be used for soup stock (minus the fat), and I may cook at few in meals.  I also need to round out the rest of the inventory we need to buy for condo.  I ordered a sofa sleeper matching chair on Overstock.com - with discounts and free shipping - I got the set for $727 - plus will have $36 in my "O" account to spend next time - and used my 1% back credit card - so, I should be able to order a $25 Gift Card after this purchase.  We are going to wait to purchase the refrigerator.  The condo association will take the current sofa sleeper/chair/fridge for a local charity auction.  I am going to cull the pantry again.  Any opened item/old - will be dumped in the trash or compost.  I hope to consciously keep track of what I have in there and start using it up.  It is great that we are in the fall/winter season - so, lots of soups will be made in the crockpot.  Tomorrow, I plan to do some extra food preparations - cook the last pumpkin, perhaps make pumpkin custard, a soup, salad, and ??? depending on what I come across.  My daughter and I plan to have a nice sushi meal with a Restaurant.Com coupon.  It cost me $2 for a $25 off $35 gift certificate and I got a few mypoints and a few cents back on my credit card. 

11/3 Expressions

Frugfal deeds for the day:  I got a refund check and a nice freebie magazine - I think Style.Com.  No washer/dryer/stove yet - but counters and tops are back in place.  Unfrugal deeds:  the condo evaluation has been completed.  We need to replace the sofa/bed and chair and also the refrigerator - yikes - more unplanned spending and need to do some painting :(  We will be busy.  I am keeping my eyes open for a big sale :)  When it rains, it pours.  The roofing guy is going to re-shingle the roof on our townhouse on the day the tenant moves out - he must need money asap too.  So, money will be flying out the next couple of weeks.  This weekend, I hope to do some heavy duty cleaning since a lot of dust has accumulated just about everywhere due to the kitchen repair/remodel. 

11/2 Expressions

Nothing got done today.  Tomorrow is suppose to be the day - everything gets put back and it is suppose to be done.  See, I used the word suppose twice - because they were suppose to install my appliances yesterday.  We are running out of clean clothes - need washing machine now.  But the hot water is nice :)  I can't think of being frugal - I do know we need to do a lot of cleaning this weekend.  Everything seems to be coated in dust.

11/1 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Okay - hot water heater is back in commission - sadly - not the washer/dryer/stove . . . some lame excuse - I think they ran to another job.  Oh well, hot water means a lot right now :)  I got my Staples paper rebate.  I get paid tomorrow - good thing because the roofer will probably start the roof in a couple of days at our rental.  Things are just rolling along.

10/31 Expressions

I am waiting to give our a few treats this evening.  But I spent 10 minutes on the phone, my husband spent another 5 and we made $40 :)  How you say?  Uh remember a couple of months we said we were switching our internet/phone provider because they doubled on us?  The representative told my husband the gaining company would take care of disconnection.  New to us - but okay.  We figured they told us that so that the losing company wouldn't get a chance to meet or beat our new rate.  Well, apparently, they can disconnet the phone - but not the internet.  So, we got a bill for $116.XX for 2 months of internet service from the losing company.  Yup, I got on the phone - and worked my up.  Even asked for the president of the company's address - they gave me the chief customer relations person . . . and another supervisor would be calling.  In any case, they would not credit this amount because we did not call them.  Next call, the gaining company, they apologized - and gave us a $40 credit - and also said they would send us a print-out that shows we were using their internet service and not the losing company's.  Okay, no call back from the manager and I am tired of talking.  So, I have my husband call the losing company to give them one more chance stating that we have proof we did not use their service, that their business practices were deceptive and that we would be writing not only to their customer service representative - but also will copy the attorney general of our state - uh, hold the phone - they credited the entire $116.XX - and we will have 2 months of credit from from our gaining company :)  Oh, tile has been grouted - and we get the hot water heater, washer, dryer, stove back tomorrow . . . may be a temporary sink because the cabinets have not been refinished and probably won't be until the end of the week.

10/30 Expressions

Pictured is the tile that got installed today.  Tomorrow, is the grout.  So, it looks like a few more days without appliances.  What we miss the most is the hot water heater.  The water was so cold, it practically knocked the wind out of me when I hopped into the shower.  My daughter and I have our treats ready to take to our respective places and we are ready for any treaters that may come by.  I got a large bag of mini candy bars from Rite Aid almost a month ago for next to nothing.  I also have 4 10 counts of Wendy's Frosty Jr. coupons.  I brought the pumpkin in.  As soon as the oven gets install, that pumpkin is going to turn in to puree.  The last time I left my pumpkin, someone took it and placed it in my neighbor's yard.  We picked up a few more microwavable meals this evening and some cheap socks at the Dollar Tree.  Oh yeah, we miss the wash machine and dryer too.

The real 10/29 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I am try to get some frugal motivation :)  When emptying cabinets, drawers, and shelves, I came upon some old cookbooks.  I have never been much of a cookbook reader - but I have started reading one - $5 Meals - has some interesting tips and recipes.  Maybe I will get some inspiration when the kitchen is back up and running.  I didn't leave the house.  My husband and daughter and made a run to the bakery - we got 2 dozen petit fours - according to the baker - if we freeze them and take them in Monday, they will still taste fresh.  So, they are in the freezer.  Now, they are out and about looking for a Redbox movie - we have free codes from McDonald's Monopoly game.  They ate the last free breakfast sandwich this morning too.  They did swing by Starbucks and got some more grounds (and coffee).  I probably have the best smelling to me compost :)  I watched an on-line video with Amy Dacyczyn last night - and was inspired by her use of fabric scraps for place mats.  The Queen of Frugal is still frugal :)  I need to get motivated and start working.  Also looked up ways to get rid of popcorn ceilings.  I may slowly start removing ours.  Thank goodness our home was built in the late 80's - so, no worry about asbestos.  Lowes, here I come.  I think I will buy a large scraping tool, re-use a spray bottle - and the worst cookie sheet and start out slowly.  Oh, and while I was dumping my coffee grounds into the compost - near my "garden" the tomato plants that really didn't produce this summer have small green tomatoes and a few more buds - maybe a good present of a few cherry tomatoes?  I'll take them :)

10/29 Expressions

I am writing tomorrows post today - because I want to relax most of tomorrow.  Anyway, keep your eyes open for fun free entertainment.  I just RSVP'd us for a free event for members only at our art museum.  I purchased our membership at a discounted price.  Anyway, we will get to preview the new display before it is opened to the "public".  Also, they will have live music, and free refreshments :)  Also, on Monday, my office is having a snack day, and my one of my daughter's classes is having the same.  So, since we don't have an operational stove/oven, I am going to use my $20 bakery groupon - originally, I was thinking of using the whole thing for the office - but now, I think we will split it and maybe add a few more dollars and be done with it.  This bakery specializes in delicious petit fours - a baker's dozen is around $11 - so, 2 boxes will be just over the groupon value.  My daughter is going to take some more clothing to the consignment store.  She is trying to think of ways to come up with $ to buy a professional quality camera.  I suggested saving aluminum cans.  I saw a recycling place near where we went to pick-out our tile - in an industrial place - much closer than the last place - and I am thinking the price per pound is up.  Actually, may be she can take all of our scrap metal.  Like our old water heater.  I noticed the the items the neighbor put out - rusted items were trashed picked - apparently no wanted old carpeting or pillows - because that was what was left for trash pick-up day.  I am also thinking about taking my Lowes giftcard and checking out the plants - hoping to find edible plants I may be able to plant before it really gets cold?  I noticed one of my neighbors has planted a bunch of fruit trees in their back yard.  Apparently, they still own several fruit orchards in their "old" country which they visit in the summer to work/visit.  I am hoping to stay home tomorrow and let my daughter and husband do any errands.  I have had enough for the week.

10/28 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My $5 Amazon e-card has activated from Swagbucks.  The tiling people just left - and will be back tomorrow.  I hit a milestone in retirement account - I printed the statement - because I am not sure what will happen today - or any other day for that matter.  We got our electricity bill and it was the lowest.  They switched to a new system - hmmmm, maybe they mistakenly calcuated the ones in the past.  Other bills are low too - so, those Wal-mart giftcard helped out this month :)  Added:  Updated the link to our beach condo on the sidebar :)

10/27 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I entered a few more codes into the McDonald's Monopoly game - and won an EA game.  Yippee!  We are going to sell it - and put the money towards my daughter's savings goal for a new camera.  The kitchen is moving along fairly quickly.  They put the sheetrock and flooring in and painted.  Tomorrow, the tile will be installed.  I took a couple of hours off from my day job to let the contractor's in this a.m.  This evening, my daughter and I are heading to Wendy's for our dinner - and to see if they are selling the Halloween coupon booklet for the frostys.  I will keep a book myself :)  They are small servings - but probably more appropriate.

10/26 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I got a sample of Infusium 23 leave-in conditioner - and I sure needed it today :)  The $1 coupon was nice too.  The contractors are here ripping up my floor.  Oh, and by the way, did I know they were painting my kitchen too?  Nope - I need to pick-out paint colors.  I am going with the same colors, except a tad lighter - and matte finish - because those colors are still "in" this year :)  But, if I want my pantry and laundry room painted - it is another $250 - have at it.  Oh, and they are going to refinish the bottom cabinets.  Not the top ones - so, my husband only has to finish up half of the cabinets now.  But, my water has been off all day - really an inconvenience . . . the fridge is in the dining room.  Cold coffee with creamer is still tasty :)  I ate leftovers in the fridge for lunch.  I was really tempted to take the dog and leave for a moment.  But thought the better of it.  I wonder if they are working tomorrow?????  I need to go back to my day job - although I have Friday off -with lots of appointments - dental for my daughter, grooming for the dog.  So, my day "off" from my day job is tied up with lots of errands.  I pick my husband up from the airport, so, he will be around to help a bit.

10/25 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  That stock market jinx :(  I was so close to a second milestone - and now I am back to playing paddle ball again - back and forth, back and forth, in.the.same.range :(  In other news, we own some beachfront property with 73 other people.  Long story, when the hurricanes tore through, our building was heavily damaged.  Then a big talking investment group came through and they were going to pay us 4X's what we paid :)  By the time the deal came through, the second hurricane further damaged the building and the economy.  We got earnest $ from them twice - and finally, they walked :(  So, instead of fixing the building with the insurance money, we tore it down.  Anyway, sneaky BP used our property for staging equipment - and claimed they didn't.  Turns out, some photos were published in the local paper, clearly showing the equipment on our land.  So, without a lawsuit, they handed over $12,500 for the use - each owner is getting a check for $171 - just in time for the holidays!  Not much - but better than nothing.  I am thinking an attorney has been contact for other damages?  Sure glad I don't have to deal with them any longer  . . . I am not going to my day job tomorrow.  The kitchen demolition crew will be in to take the floorng and cabinets out and either dry the subflooring - or get a determination to tear it out.  I will be up late - finishing up the emptying of the cabinets.  Oh, and my daughter and I got paid for our restaurant mystery shop :)

10/24 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I forgot to mention, yesterday, when my daughter and I drove through Starbucks - they had a large bag of coffee grounds.  They said it was so big - they could not put it through the drive thru window.  So, I also got a large bag of grounds.  Not only for my compost - but I sure love the smell - the car smelled of coffee for a bit :)  Today, I got a facial cleanser sample  A nice rent check - always exciting if there are no additional costs taken out.  I am going to defrost some of my pumpkin puree - and make pumpkin merangue pie sometime this week.  I have a recipe from my freebie Martha Stewart magazine.

10/23 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  The picture with bad lighting (artificial since it was taken this evening) is my frugal project.  I mentioned I "won" a box of vintage linens.  Included were the 4 embroidered tea towels (I believe they were made from feed sacks?).  And the middle one was made from some fabric - because the edges were sewn under.  Anyway, the "flower" hanger I got about 6-8 years ago for my daughter's room when the internet deals were flying.  I doubt I paid more than $5 for thing shipped.  Anyway, she no longer wanted it.  So, I found a spot for it in the kitchen for those towels to be displayed.  I used leftover craft ribbon to tie them to the flower peg - I had enough green for the 4 feed sack towels and had a bit of pink for the leftover? fabric towel.  People "back then" turned ordinary "stuff" into useful and beautiful to me towels.  I am happy to have found a place to hang them.  I hope my daughter learns a lesson from them - back them it really was waste not, want not, reduce, re-use, and recycle at its best :)  For 'frugal fun" - my daughter and I decided to go to our local tv station's open house - because my husband wanted to watch his beloved Bears play in London.  We really must be in a recession because the place was jammed packed and the line went on forever.  We finally got in and saw the studio.  It is true, somethings should be left to the imagination.  The anchor desk, weather map looks much more impressive on tv.  It looked like a warehouse set-up for a play or something to me.  Anyway, my daughter and I put our names in for a drawing of 200 tv antennaes.  Hope we win one - maybe we will get a call tomorrow.  We each also got a free adult sized rain poncho - it was that or an ice scrapper.  My neighbor, who is moving is still setting stuff out on the curb.  Today, my daughter asked if I would go with her - she wanted to trash-pick about 10 wooden picture frames in varying conditions.  Some will definitely need some paint - other looked nice as they were.  And finally, after we took my husband to the airport, we went to Michaels to get some scrapbook supplies for her English project.  We saved $10 by waiting until today, after 4 to use coupons.  We also stopped at Wal-mart and gassed up the car - using the WM giftcard.  Then went inside and picked up a few things - including the yummy La Creme coffee creamer which has a rebate on it.  I will be mailing that out tomorrow and will also be enjoying the creamer.  Then we stopped at Rite Aid.  I had $3.99 in UP rewards.  They have that X-tra detergent on sale - 3 for $6 and get $2 UP rewards.  My husband likes the stuff - and since he refuses to use homemade - the least I can do it try to get him the commercial stuff for a "cheap" as possible.  So, I spent a few bucks and since my daughter was with me, I used the $2 UP rewards from the detergent for her favorite Kettle corn.  For just over $3 - we got a family sized bag of "Indiana Kettle Corn", 3 X-tra liquid detergent - I believe each bottle is suppose to do up to 44 loads of laundry - so, that should last him several months.  Added:  we almost put in an offer for a foreclosed beach condo yesterday.  Until we found it - it cannot be rented out.  Strange - but the association voted to become non-rental - those already renting were grandfathered - but once sold - no renting.  That is probably why the unit went into foreclosure and is selling for approximately 1/3 of the high price.  Sure isn't worth even that to us if we can't rent it.

10/22 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My daughter and I went to our facial appointment and had a great time.  We also stopped at the Dollar Tree - no pie crusts on the shelf yet.  I did get a few more items for the condo - pancake turner, muffin pan, veggie peeler.  We stopped at the thrift store - and found not one thing we needed or wanted.  Then to Applebees - the gift card I purchased about a month ago with the Murphy's Oil $1 off any gift card coupon - had $0.  Good thing I kept my receipt and the cashier remembered me - so, we paid for our meal today w/a CC.  Tomorrow, we will be ordering take-out with that giftcard - and that will be it for Applebees.  The cashier had forgotten to activate the card with the veriphone - but as soon as he swiped it - the $25 appeared.  The manager at Applebees made me feel like I was trying to pull something on him - he said there was $0 - and it looked like there was never $ on the card.  Maybe he thought I was a total dufus and stole the card from a retail store - thinking there was $ - when everyone knows you have to activate.  I guess these days, it is hard not to think that - but still, it is rather insulting.  He said do you want me to throw this card out.  I said no.  Because I knew I kept the receipt somewhere in my purse - and I was taking the card back.  We also stopped at Kroger for a few items - and watched a free Dvd yesterday and paid $1 for Brides Maid today.

10/21 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  My husband and I picked out the tile for our kitchen/laundry.  We went slightly over the allowance given to us - but, it would be worth it.  It would be less than $100 for better quality - but the line is being discontinued.  Then we went to the new Aldi.  I spent just over $11 in there and ended up with a lot of food.  I just picked up the lost leaders.  Three of the four envelopes my daughter and I sent out for free McDonald's game pieces came in the mail.  Yippee - they each had 4 game pieces.  Just out of this bath - we received a free sandwich, free breakfast sandwich, free fries, 30 Cokerewards points, and 20 free snapfish photos :)  Plus, I have 8 codes to load on line tomorrow.  I am thinking the gifcards I ordered came today - as we have certified mail awaiting us.  We will buy the hot water heater tomorrow with the gift card and 10 percent off coupon.  I have a free redbox code - may see a free movie tonight.  Tomorrow, my daughter and I will be getting our 1 hour facial with our Groupon certificate.  Added:  I redeemed 450 swagbucks for another $5 Amazon.com gift card.  I may use my Amazon $ for the condo inventory.  I found a foreclosed condo that caught my eye . . . just need to do some research.

10/20 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  the project manager came today.  He gave us a store to pick out the tile for the flooring.  We will do that tomorrow afternoon.  Seems it depends on when they can get the tile before they will begin the process of drying out the floor boards.  Iritating, the inventory list for items we need to replace in our condo was posted this evening.  I will surely be looking for this stuff at the thrift store for the next month or so.  Examples are - 2 wine glasses, veggie peeler, cooking tongs, a salad fork, a dinner fork, casserole dish :(  I think I have some items in my pantry.  The rest will come from my new favorite thriftstore - need to find out when their 50% off days are.

10/19 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today, I received a "Bag of Beauty" from Target.  The zippered bag is so cute, and the samples inside so useful.  Several Shampoo/Conditioner samples, Youth Code Sample, Facial Wipes (the smell really good - White Tea), and a Burts Bee moisturizer.  Sure can use every bit of it.

10/18 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I am going to make a large batch of salad to get me through the next lunches.  I am also going to color my own hair.  I also got the Aldi ad - .99 grapes/lb, .99 Cauliflower, $1.69 boneless, skinless chicken, and a few more .99 deals I can price match at Wal-mart and use my giftcard :)  Mail was pretty zzzz today - and I am hoping the stock market had a wonderful day :)

10/17 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I have four sandwich size bags of pumpkin puree in the freezer and will probably be able to get one more.  The realtor e-mailed back on the property we were interested in.  He thinks the bank will want to see about the listed price.  No thanks.  We sold two items on Listia :)  We hope to sell our junque and get something we want/need.  Seeds, coupons for things we use, etc.  So, we are on our way.  Sure wish some of my daughters games would sell on half.com.  My sweet husband is going to try to come home one day earlier this week to help out with the driving duties.  The weather is really suppose to cool off tomorrow.  So far, my daughter and I have kept the heat off :)  We have worn jackets in the house first thing in the morning - but it usually has been warming up by the middle of the day.

10/16 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Today was such a nice day - it sure was hard to think about much.  I did mainly relax and take a nap.  I just recently cut up the pumpkin - it did have a few "bad spots" that are now in the compost.  The seeds have been roasted and are great tasting - just put a bit of EVOO and a dash of sea salt on them.  The pumpkin "meat" is cooking with the 2 apple pies.  I also put the big eggplant in a baking dish with some baby carrots - with a bit of EVOO and salt.  They will become part of some kind of salad.  I have enough salad for the next 2 days - and then will have the eggplant with whatever else looks good for the rest of the week.  I found another condo short sale . . . I have an e-mail into the realtor to find-out if a contract has been accepted.  If not, we may make a quick trip down and look at it/make an offer.  Added:  Since we have a little bit of time, my daughter said she needs to do a school project that will require a purchase at Michael's.  Also, we will need to buy a water heater when the flooring gets replaced.  So, I just ordered 2 discounted gift cards.  We will use coupons at both places to stretch our $ even more.  In addition, we need a few more "Hilton Honors" points for a stay at a hotel, so, we used my husbands credit card.

More 10/15 Expressions

My daughter consigned some clothes - but only had $14 in sales - the new rule is you have to wait until you $20 or more to take cash or a check.  At Best Buy, she got $18.75 - and half of her games they would not take because they don't sell the system.  So, she will have to try another alternative.  Pictured are the flowers I got for $2.50 at Kroger.  Originally $12.99 with Kroger cards.  I had to stop and get pie crusts because the Dollar Store was out of them.  May be I should not tell people.  I told some co-workers and they were excited that the Dollar Tree had pie crusts/tins and Nature's Own bread.  I just bought 1 pack - which was $2.65 for the Kroger brand.  I also found a rebate form for spend $14 and get $7 back on a number of items to include deli items - so, my daughter and I picked out some items in the deli section.  First time I tried Baba Ganoush - it is wonderful.  We also got stuffed grape leaves, rotisserie chicken, etc.  Now, I just need to mail in the form.  Added:  Freebies received in the mail the last couple of days:  Lotion sample from Dial, 3 Chai Latte tea bags from Twinning, 2 samples of body wipes from Playtex Sport, coupon for a free pair of underwear from Victoria's Secret, and a free Martha Stewart Living magazine.

10/15 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  Pictured are my $1.99 each price matched pumpkins.  One will be a decoration for a while and the other will probabaly become puree and the seeds roasted shortly.  I was hoping to keep both of them out as decoration for a while - but one has a bit of a soft spot - so, might as well get to it before it goes bad.  Today on the agenda, my daughter has steamed clothes to take to the consignment store and to find out if she has any $ from her previous consignment.  We also plan to take her no longer played electronic games to Best Buy and hope she can trade them in for Best Buy gift card $.  Across the street from Best Buy is the Dollar Tree that has frozen foods for sale.  Will stop in there to get some $1 for 2 ready to go pie crusts.  The potatoes, onion, sausage concoction I made in the crockpot was delicious.  I didn't make much . . . but it is gone.  So, I have a second batch going.  Used up the rest of the potatoes, 3 packs of the all natural chicken sausage - 2 sweet because they have blueberries mixed in - that were on sale at Publix, this time, I snuck in 2 organic carrots that I want to use up, a few apples and two onions that I sliced and carmelized.  That should be dinner for the next couple of nights for us.  This afternoon, I plan to make some apple pies, and roast the pumpkin and its seeds.  Tomorrow, I plan to make a large tub of salads for lunches - I have a large eggplant, an onion, and will see what else sounds like it should be mixed in to stretch and use up what we have around here.  I am thinking maybe some brown rice.  The dishwasher and washing machine are running, we hope to tackle some cleaning chores today.  Oh, I scheduled a 1 hour facial for both my daughter and myself for next week.  They were $29 a piece though Groupon. 

10/14 Expressions

Frugal deeds for the day:  I drove my daughter to school this morning.  On the way back, I stopped at McDonald's to redeem my Monopoly game piece for a breakfast sandwich - so many to choose from - except the McMuffin (which has a game piece).  Then I purchased 6 hashbrowns - 2/$1 - $3 plus tax.  Those will be frozen for future breakfasts since my husband and daughter both like them.  I enter 10 of 12 codes in on-line - of course my daughter wants us to win the "Z".  Anyway, I won 60 Cokerewards points to get over the 175 points needed today to get the instant $5 off at TGI Fridays.  Will give it to my geographical bachelor husband so that he can enjoy lunch there for pretty cheap after the $5 off.  I also "won" another breakfast sandwich and a breakfast parfait/ice-cream drink tickets.  I am going to put potatoes, onions, and the cheap natural chicken saugage I got from Publix into the crockpot for easy meals the next couple of days - and to use up what we have.  Of course I am going to go to my day job for a few hours.  Then to Wal-mart to gas-up with my gift card and get a few groceries.  There are a few rebate forms - so, I'd like to go ahead and purchase the items and send in for the rebates.  Also plan to price match a few produce items with the Aldi ad :)

10/13 Expresssions

Today, I got a copy of Aldi's new ad.  Now I can price match some items at Wal-mart.  Most exciting for me - the $1.99 Pumpkin.  We can use it for decorations - and then roast the seeds and make pumpkin puree to freeze for pies later.  I am "off" tomorrow - but will go into work for a few hours to finish up a project.  I think I will stop at the Dollar Tree to buy 2 pie crusts for $1.  I am overloaded with apples.  There's a recipe in my free Woman's Day for apple pie with an oatmeal/crumble topping.  Seems frugal, healthy and delicious.  We can eat one now and freeze the other for later.  The neighbor lady said the house that sold in 1 week had several people interested in it.  One couple really loves this neighborhood.  So, since the realtor knew my neighbor was planning to sell their house eventually, he asked them - and they sold it.  So, technically, the house was never listed.  The neighbor is retiring next summer - so they are downsizing to a townhouse somewhere else.  Hope interest in our neighbor picks up.  I may still list this summer . . . or then again, wait for a few more years.  Today, I deposited $20.50 in rolled change and a few checks.  My husband needs to chase down the closing costs on our foreclosure - they keep asking for additional information :(  It has been 3 months.  The next couple of months are going to be expensive for us.  Replace kitchen/laundry flooring and water heater.  Townhouse will be re-roofed.  All property - except for the foreclosure house is later on 1 Jan of next year.  I want to increase savings for my daughters college education.

10/12 Expressions

The insurance adjustor called today.  He said the insurance company will not cover the flooring in the laundry room.  Vinyl flooring continues from kitchen into the laundry room.  Well, we wanted to replace our water heater anyway - either with a tankless - or at least with one with a larger capacity as only one person can shower/bathe at a time - and has to wait for the water to re-heat.  Also, when we had a home inspection done, the inspector said the heater only had about 5 years of life left and we have been here 5 years.  So, including my $1,000 deductible, it will cost $1,6XX to install tile (we get to pick) this includes the tile price and also to do the laundry room.  If we provide the water heater, they will install it at no additional costs since they have to remove it and the washer/dryer to do the tile installation and re-install the appliances.  Works for us.  These things were in the "plan" anyway.  And, while I was thinking about not listing our home for sale this summer - before the 2 years is up for my husband's new employer to pay for selling expenses because property prices dropped and houses seemed to be sitting forever; when we drove home today, we noticed the neighbor has a "pending" sign in her lawn.  She must have had an "exclusive" sales agreement because we never saw a "for sale" sign out.  But there were tale tell signs - she had granite installed a few months ago.  She cleaned out her garage and updated her landscape.  I believe her husband is retiring and none of their daughters live in the area.  Perhaps they are moving to be closer to a daughter.  Anyway, seems homes are selling faster - one up the street sold in a week - not sure what the sales price was.  So, I wil not make any hasty decisions - and perhaps this updating/upgrading for us is coming at a good time.  As for mail, I have not been getting any freebies worth remembering - but my husband has been getting a few at our "new" home ;)  I even sent him 2 cards for free, including postage from an on-line deal.  I rolled .50 in pennies.  So, my next visit to the bank - that will get deposited.  Hoping some rebate checks roll in too.  I am keeping my eyes open for one more property at the beach.  Nothing extremely exciting yet.  Perhaps in November when we will probably go down to do our annual maintenance trip.