Vacation!

Last weekend, I went with a friend, her sister, and the sister's friend to Branson, MO for a mini vacation. This is the same friend that I went to Branson with back in December. It was a good time, but I have learned that I don't like spending money. I think that may be a new development since I seem to have enjoyed spending money before! I took with me the Springfield/Branson Entertainment Book and my coupon binder. While we were there, we picked up several free coupon books and received a free VIP coupon book from the timeshare. Some Branson tips:

* Search the internet for coupons before you go if you know what attractions you will be visiting.
* There is a wide range of hotels available at every price point, so you may be able to save some money there.
* Another good way to save money is to purchase some groceries and eat some meals in your room.
* Do pick up the free coupon books located at the entrance of hotels, restaurants, etc. We wound up using a couple of these coupons.
* Purchasing the Springfield/Branson Entertainment Book may be a good way to save money depending on how many coupons you plan to use. A friend had given me her copy when she moved, so I didn't pay anything for it.
* There are some inexpensive attractions available if you do your homework.

We stayed from Thursday night through Sunday morning. Here is the total price break down:

* Time-share that we stayed in: FREE (we used their grandparents' condo!)
* Giftcard as a thank-you to the grandparents: $10
* Gas money: $20
* Friday night dinner at McFarlain's: $8 including tip (used a 20% off coupon)
* Groceries: $6.02 (there was a kitchenette in our room- we prepared and ate most breakfasts in the room)
* Mascara at Walgreen's because I forgot mine: $5.59 (used a $2 coupon)
* Shopping at the Gap Outlet: $5.41
* Shopping at Payless: $2.04 (I had a $10 giftcard)
* Shopping at Bath and Body Works: $5.70
* Friday lunch at Cantina Laredo (located in the Branson Landing shopping complex): $15
* Friday dinner and show at the Dixie Stampede: $40 (used a 20% off coupon)
* Visit to the Titanic Museum: $21
* Saturday lunch at the Chateau on the Lake: $15 (and worth every penny, I might add!)
* Imax movie: $8.69 (used a $1 off coupon)
* Baskin Robbins milk shake: $3.82
* Stationery from $1 Shop: $1.09
* Pizza from Domino's for Saturday dinner: $2 (used a 50% off coupon and split four ways)
* Sunday breakfast at The Uptown Cafe: $6.44

Grand Total: $175.80

Not too bad for several days of a non-frugal vacation!